Crimson Lake Road by Victor Methos brings murder, suspense, police investigations, and courtroom drama to a well-written legal thriller mainly setCrimson Lake Road by Victor Methos brings murder, suspense, police investigations, and courtroom drama to a well-written legal thriller mainly set in and around Las Vegas, Nevada. This is the second book in the Desert Plains series and my second novel by this author.
Our protagonist, Jessica Yardley, is a federal prosecutor with a dark past. She has decided to retire but takes on one last investigation where the murders seem inspired by a series of grisly paintings. What follows is an exciting combination of investigations, action, family crises, and courtroom battles.
Jessica is definitely strong in her professional career, but her personal life is another matter. A flaw or two gives some balance, but the result is somewhat stereotyped. I liked her courage and resilience, and I was definitely rooting for a satisfactory ending for the story line. But does it happen? Why doesn’t she rely on others more? Why does she make some decisions that seem out of character?
One thing that I enjoyed this time is that her daughter, Tara, plays a larger role in this book and we get a better feel for her character. The subplot around Tara added another dimension to the novel. Will she play a major role in a future book? Among the other secondary characters, readers will get more insight into FBI Special Agent Cason Baldwin. His character gained depth in this novel. The book was well-written and was paced well and had an appropriate mix of dialogue and narrative. The plot had several twists and turns with a several surprises along the way even after readers find out a lot of the ‘who did what’. The courtroom scenes are very strong. What seemed to be the ending was very dramatic. Will you see it coming? However, I was disappointed with the last chapter which seemed like an epilogue that could have been omitted. I was disappointed with the actions taken in it.
The novel’s themes include murder, personal isolation, the line between pushing for a justified conviction and convicting an innocent person, personal relationships, ethics, heartbreak, betrayal, kidnapping, and much more. Some trigger points to consider include gruesome scenes and dealing with harm to children.
If you enjoy legal thrillers and police investigations, then I recommend this series. While there are some things that seemed somewhat implausible, overall, it is an intense book that pulls the reader into its disturbing storyline. It is certainly thought-provoking. While this does not have a cliffhanger ending, there are threads that can be pulled into the next book in the series. Which one or ones will it be? I can’t wait to find out in the next novel. This series is best read in order.
I purchased a digital copy of this novel. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date was February 9, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
BLOODLINE by Jess Lourey is a psychological thriller that grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. Her excellent writing and exquisite stoBLOODLINE by Jess Lourey is a psychological thriller that grabbed me from the beginning and didn’t let go. Her excellent writing and exquisite story line captured my attention immediately. The author’s note tells the story that inspired this novel.
When a pregnant Joan Harken is mugged on her way home, she agrees to move to from Minneapolis to her fiancé’s small hometown two and a half hours northwest. Deck Schmidt tells her Lilydale is peaceful, friendly, and everyone knows everyone and looks out for each other. His parents have even gifted them their old house and Deck tells her he is sure the local newspaper will hire her as a journalist and she will get a coveted byline. What could possibly go wrong? Is it too good to be true? Something seems off. Is Joan being watched or is she being paranoid? Can she trust her instincts? Is there anyone she can trust?
This novel takes place in 1968 and 1969 and there is some jumping back and forth in time. As the time shifted forward, I continued to wonder what happened in the intervening months that landed her in the situation she is in in the future. While it would have helped if the transitions had been labeled with dates, a picture is gradually revealed to the reader.
Recognizing that this novel is set in the late 1960’s and not current times, I can see why Joan handled some things the way that she did. This was a time before the internet and cell phones. The story would not have worked for me if it was a contemporary setting so the author selected an appropriate timeline. Joan was someone that I wanted to be safe and happy and to have a healthy baby. But she also has some flaws that emerge during the course of the books that makes her more believable. Almost none of the other characters were likeable.
The writing is very atmospheric and creepy; the plot tense and suspenseful, with a few twists and a dramatic ending. Several themes are woven into the book, but I don’t want to give away any spoilers. Suffice it to say that family relationships and town dynamics play a large role in the story.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was an entertaining book that was emotionally intense at times. If you are a fan of psychological thrillers and family dramas, then you may want to check out this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 1, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
Murder on the Menu by Fiona Leitch brings murder, disappearances and some humor to a new cozy mystery series set in the Cornish town of Penstowan.Murder on the Menu by Fiona Leitch brings murder, disappearances and some humor to a new cozy mystery series set in the Cornish town of Penstowan. Jodie ‘Nosey’ Parker has moved back to her home town after leaving the London police force. Her 12 year-old daughter Daisy wanted her to do something less dangerous so Jodie retrained as a caterer and is going to start Banquets and Bakes, her own catering company. What Jodie didn’t expect is that her first job would be catering the wedding of childhood friend and ex-boyfriend, Tony Penhaligon. When the bride-to-be disappeared the night before the wedding after a fight with Tony’s ex-wife, Jodie is drawn into the investigation.
Jodie’s sense of humor and warmth was a delight. She was a likeable and friendly character that I connected with quickly. Her interactions with DCI Withers varied from witty to serious and a little bit of everything in between. Is there a romance in Jodie’s future? The secondary characters were well developed for a first novel. Instead of quaint characters, there were realistic characters that added to the realism of the story. How much have your high school friends and neighbors changed?
The writing style was imaginative and flowed well. The author did a good job of transporting me to the Cornish countryside and its small towns. She did a great job of ‘showing’ versus ‘telling’ which made the novel more enjoyable. The story had several twists and there were a couple of surprises at the end. It was definitely not predictable. Additionally, having a sleuth that was not an amateur brought a depth to the novel that is often lacking in cozy mysteries.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Jodie’s world. It was a fun, appealing and entertaining read with a solid mystery to unravel and a fresh take on the protagonist. All of the major plot points were resolved satisfactorily, the atmosphere was just right, and there are some threads to be explored in future books.
This is the first book in the Nosey Parker cozy mystery series, and I recommend it to those that enjoy the genre. It was a fun and relaxing read and I can’t wait for the next book featuring Jodie. It even includes a recipe at the end of the book. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it won’t be the last.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and Fiona Leitch via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 15, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
What do you get when you mix a legal thriller with a medical thriller and add a bit of romance and subtle Christian overtones? You get a fantastic novWhat do you get when you mix a legal thriller with a medical thriller and add a bit of romance and subtle Christian overtones? You get a fantastic novel, LETHAL INTENT, by Cara C. Putman that is set in northern Virginia.
Caroline Bragg feels her life is moving forward as she and Brandon Lancaster transition from friendship to courtship. She has also just landed a new job as legal counsel for Praecursoria, a research lab that is on the cutting edge with genetic therapies for leukemia treatments for young children. Brandon operates a group foster home for sibling family groups waiting for adoption. One of those children has leukemia and is a candidate for an experimental trial with Praecursoria. Unfortunately, the laws governing group foster homes have recently changed and he may lose the group home he has worked so hard to build.
The characters came to life for me in this book. They were compelling, had great depth, and faced real-world situations that tugged at the heart strings. Caroline and Brandon’s backstories made them feel real and made their actions and dynamics believable. The stakes were high for so many in this novel that it was definitely a page turner. I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster with the characters, experiencing highs and lows just as they did as events hurtled at them.
The writing style quickly pulled me into the novel and I connected with Caroline and Brandon as well as several other characters. The plot was suspenseful, but also heartbreaking, thought-provoking, and insightful at times. As the two story lines became entangled, it also showed the ethical dilemmas many face in the course of their lives. My only quibbles are that the antagonist was a little too easy to determine and I wish that there had been an epilogue that wrapped up a couple of items more cleanly.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and look forward to reading her Hidden Justice Series as well as her standalone novels. The author’s legal experience and her significant medical research into cutting edge scientific trials and FDA approval processes gave this book an authenticity and depth that many lack. It was also filled with lots of hope, warmth, love, friendship and romance against a backdrop of treachery, crimes, ethical dilemmas, arrogance, secrets and more. If you enjoy suspenseful legal and medical thrillers with a bit of romance, then I recommend that you check out this novel and see if you enjoy it as much as I did.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson—FICTION and Cara C. Putman via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 12, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
BAIT AND WITCH by Angela M. Sanders brings corruption and magic to a new paranormal cozy mystery series set in Wilford, Oregon. A Victorian house BAIT AND WITCH by Angela M. Sanders brings corruption and magic to a new paranormal cozy mystery series set in Wilford, Oregon. A Victorian house that is the small town’s library is just the place for Josie Way to hide, or so she thinks.
Our protagonist, 25 year old Josie, arrives in town to be the new librarian. While working at the Library of Congress, she and a colleague overheard a conversation that deals with corruption. After they go to the FBI, her colleague disappears and Josie decides to get out of town until the trial. However, her hiding place isn’t as calm as she expected. The library is set to be torn down so that a retreat can be built. On top of that, Josie finds out she is descended from a long line of witches and her powers have suddenly been activated. The library books are actually talking to her. Finding a dead body the first night she arrives only adds to her terror. Will the crooks find her? What will happen to the library? Is Josie able to control her magic? How long will she spend in Wilfred? Who was killed on the library grounds and why?
The writing style felt warm and friendly. I was able to vividly see the picturesque library, the town, and the people of Wilford. I quickly related to Josie and wanted her to be safe and successful. Of course, things don’t always go smoothly, but I was rooting for her to win. The secondary characters were a mixed lot of the unusual as well as ever-day folks that you could meet in any small town. While their depth varied, it felt adequate for a first book in a series. Of the secondary characters, Rodney the cat stole the show.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Josie’s world. It was filled with the challenges of starting over against a backdrop of murder, corruption, secrets and more. This was a fun and entertaining read that I did not want to put down. I also enjoyed the way the historical aspects of the town and a possible romance were woven seamlessly into the story.
This is the first book in the Witch Way Librarian Mysteries series, and I highly recommend it to those that enjoy the genre. If you love share Josie’s and my love of books and libraries, this may be the next book for you. It was a fun, relaxing, and entertaining read and I can’t wait for the next book featuring Josie.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books and Angela M. Sanders via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 29, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
A Question of Navigation by Kevin Hearne brings murder, kidnappings and suspense to a science fiction novella briefly set in Colorado and quickly moviA Question of Navigation by Kevin Hearne brings murder, kidnappings and suspense to a science fiction novella briefly set in Colorado and quickly moving to an alien spaceship.
Our protagonist, Clint Beecham and his friend Derek are hiking in a national park when they encounter two girls that appear to be less than ten years old and unaccompanied by adults. As they talk to Emily and Janelle, Clint tells them he is a physicist and Derek has an English graduate degree. The next thing Clint knows, he is paralyzed and Derek has been eaten by Janelle. Clint’s day only gets worse when he is taken to a shuttle and a needle renders him unconscious until he wakes up on a spaceship. The only upside is that he has been given clothing that says DO NOT EAT in the aliens’ language along with five other scientists who have also been ‘reserved’. Unfortunately there are 50,000 other humans are scheduled to be butchered and frozen as a food supply for the aliens on their voyage to their home world. Why have the scientists been reserved? What will they do? Are the 50,000 humans doomed? Are those on earth safe?
Clint and the other scientists are compelling characters and he and Ayesha, a biologist become the leaders of the reservists. Their goals were clear and even though this was a novella, Clint showed significant character growth. This story took action and anxiety to new heights alongside a large amount of fighting and gore. But it also showed how resilience, courage, personal sacrifice, hope and love can bring out abilities one never thought they had. While the novella is told in a first person point of view, it is vividly descriptive and thought provoking. This made it feel like I was experiencing the events along with Clint.
Overall, the darkness and intensity of this novel made it a true page-turner. The voice was unique and fresh and the story delivered on its premise. The ending was impactful and fitting to the storyline but left a couple of threads open so there could be a follow-up novel. Will there be? I hope so. It was certainly thought-provoking.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Subterranean Press and Kevin Hearne via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 31, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
HOPE, FAITH, AND A CORPSE by Laura Jensen Walker brings murder to a new cozy mystery series set in Apple Springs, California. This is a story that briHOPE, FAITH, AND A CORPSE by Laura Jensen Walker brings murder to a new cozy mystery series set in Apple Springs, California. This is a story that brings warmth and humor while tackling serious situations, examining prejudicial attitudes and focusing on a unique amateur sleuth. It was one of the most enjoyable cozy mysteries that I have ever read.
Our protagonist, 42 year old Hope Taylor, arrives in Apple Springs to start as the first female pastor of Faith Chapel Episcopal Church. While searching for the rector and her new boss, Father Christopher, she enters the columbarium and nearly trips over church elder Stanley King. When kneeling to check on him, she happens to pick up an urn that has blood on it. When Father Christopher and two of the women of the church enter, one of them accuses Hope of murder. What a dreadful first day on the job! To clear her name, she focuses on her inner Trixie Belden while taking on her new duties at Faith Chapel. But will the community give her a chance? Many are not open to changes and focus on long-held prejudices against women in church leadership.
The descriptive writing made the cottages, bungalows, shops and people of Apple Springs come to life. I felt like I was visiting the town and trying to help Hope. Her quirky sense of humor is not always obvious to others and this actually makes her more relatable. The secondary characters were a mixed bag with varying levels and depth that worked great for a first novel in a series. There were enough challenges and adventures with secondary characters to keep the situation lively while Hope moved forward with solving the murder. Sister-in-law Virginia’s visit and phone calls added snarkiness in addition to some much needed support for Hope. Bogie, Hope’s Labrador, provided moments of humor as well as adding another dimension to Hope’s life. The story had plenty of suspects and twists along with a fast-paced plot.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Hope’s world. It was filled with lots of humor, but also kindness, friendship, hope and the challenges of starting over against a backdrop of murder, arrogance, lies, secrets and more. This was a fun and entertaining read that I did not want to put down.
This is the first book in the Faith Chapel Mystery series, and I highly recommend it to those that enjoy the genre. Additionally, if you love share Hope’s love of classic movies, this may be the next book for you. It was a fun, relaxing, and entertaining read and I can’t wait for the next book featuring Hope, Father Christopher and the other residents of Apple Springs.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books and Laura Jensen Walker via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 12, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
THE LAST SISTER by Kendra Elliot brings mystery and suspense to a police procedural and romantic suspense novel set in Bartonville, Oregon. This is thTHE LAST SISTER by Kendra Elliot brings mystery and suspense to a police procedural and romantic suspense novel set in Bartonville, Oregon. This is the first book in the Columbia River series but brings in characters from other series as well. It’s the first book that I have read by this author.
Emily Mills’ father was murdered twenty years ago and she found his body hanging from a tree in the backyard. Since then, she has tried to forget everything about that night. However, when a similar murder occurs in contemporary times, and Emily finds another body, her life is about to change. Questions abound. Are the deaths related? If so, how and why?
Our protagonists, FBI Special Agent Zander Wells and Emily Mills, bring an interesting dynamic to this novel. Despite Emily being a witness, there is an attraction between them. How will it affect the case? Emily is resilient, but she wants to protect her family, and she has secrets to keep too. Zander is a dedicated FBI agent and has a heartbreaking backstory. Great characters tend to develop from the ups and downs of life, and Zander and Emily emerge as believable characters with some shortcomings, just like real people. The secondary characters had a range of depths, but all enhanced the story without overwhelming it.
The plot was suspenseful and very complex. There were a multitude of conflicts that kept me engaged in the story line. The author did a great job of letting this reader see Emily’s inner conflicts, motivations and personality. There were plenty of plot twists and turns, and a few surprises along the way. A consistent pace from scene to scene - until the action-packed ending, where the subplots tied together - had me quickly turning the pages. The romantic part of this novel took a backseat and did not detract from the story line. This is not an instant-love type of romantic suspense, but a slow building of respect and attraction. The author did a great job of world-building. The descriptions were vivid and gave a clear sense of place. It felt like I was on the Oregon coast experiencing the vagaries of the weather and small town attitudes.
Overall, this was a compelling crime thriller that tackled some very serious themes ranging from murder, secrets and family relationships to racism, drugs and much more. This is the first book I have read by Kendra Elliott, but I am happy to say that I own five others and can’t wait to read them. If you enjoy crime novels and police procedurals set in a small town with a small amount of romance, then I recommend that you check out this series.
I purchased a digital copy of this novel. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date was January 14, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
BREATHE YOUR LAST by Lisa Regan brings mystery and suspense to a well-written and dramatic police procedural and crime thriller set in Denton, PennsylBREATHE YOUR LAST by Lisa Regan brings mystery and suspense to a well-written and dramatic police procedural and crime thriller set in Denton, Pennsylvania. This is the tenth book in the Detective Josie Quinn series and the second book that I have read by this author.
Josie doesn’t expect to be doing CPR on a star athlete when she meets her brother before his first class. How does a champion swimmer drown accidentally? Once again, Josie and her boyfriend, Lieutenant Noah Fraley, and many others from the Denton police force face a case with few clues. As additional odd events occur, the team is working long hours and getting little sleep. While trying to make sense of what is happening, they wonder if there is a pattern or link that they are missing. Josie and Noah are compelling characters you can root for. They felt real and three-dimensional and definitely had both flaws and virtues. Like many people they often struggle with work-life balance, jealousy and communication issues. Their motivations were believable and the secondary characters were well-rounded and contributed to the story rather than detracting from it. Having characters from Josie’s private life woven into the story made her feel more realistic and believable. This story managed to showcase the emotional landscape of several characters, bringing them to life to this reader.
The plot was suspenseful, fresh, complex and entertaining. The conflicts were both internal and external, arising from characterization and circumstance. There were plenty of plot twists and turns with several surprises. There was a fast pace from scene to scene and the subplots tied together well. The tension, stakes and action built up to an exciting and pulse-quickening dramatic ending. While the romantic relationship between Josie and Noah was interspersed into the plot, it did not detract from the story line.
Once again, this author has brought mystery, family dynamics, mental illness and much more to life in a page turner that kept me engaged throughout. Her ability to bring fresh approaches to an established genre and series are fantastic.
Overall, this was a dramatic crime thriller that hooked me with the first sentence and didn’t let go until it was finished. It’s the second book I have read by this author and I am looking forward to the next one. I recommend it to those that enjoy crime thrillers or police procedurals. While not absolutely necessary, I would recommend reading the series in order to gain more insight into the characters and their backgrounds.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture and Lisa Regan via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 9, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
Absence of Alice by Sherry Harris brings murder, mystery and suspense to a cozy mystery set in Ellington, Massachusetts. This is the ninth book in theAbsence of Alice by Sherry Harris brings murder, mystery and suspense to a cozy mystery set in Ellington, Massachusetts. This is the ninth book in the Sarah Winston Garage Sale Mystery series.
Our protagonist, Sarah started a business two years ago organizing on site and online garage sales. Her latest client, Alice Krandle, is sure she can make a lot of money from the antiques and art work that she owns. Meanwhile, Sarah’s landlady and friend, Stella is kidnapped. Unfortunately, the kidnapper has decided to make life difficult for Sarah as well. He contacts Sarah with a list of rules including “Don’t call the police” as well as having her run all other town doing tasks. Sarah can’t get questions out of her mind. Who has kidnapped Stella? Why are they contacting Sarah? Should she abide by the rules? Will Stella be rescued? Is Sarah’s life also in danger? While she jumps to meet the kidnapper’s demands, Sarah is having to continue to work with clients on their garage sales as well as her own upcoming anniversary garage sale on the town common.
This novel continues to feature many of the reoccurring characters that are Sarah’s friends that I have come to know and enjoy spending time with as well as a few new characters to bring variety and twists to the story. Sarah’s growth over the course of the series is clearly demonstrated as well as how she interacts with and feels about the other characters.
This story brought more suspense and anxiety to the table than previous novels and is therefore somewhat darker. However, it is still a cozy mystery without the gory details being explicitly shown. Sarah’s emotional state and her ability to “think on her feet” play a large role in this novel. So does her resilience, courage, hope and love. There was a fast pace from scene to scene and the subplots tied together well. The tension, stakes and action built up to an exciting ending. Themes include murder, kidnapping, friendship, relationships and trust.
Overall, this was an intense cozy mystery that quickly drew me into Sarah’s world. I felt like I was trying to help her find Stella and identify the kidnapper. It’s the seventh book I have read by this author and I am looking forward to the next one. I recommend it to those that enjoy the genre. This can be read as a standalone novel, but I would recommend reading the series in order to gain more insight into the characters and their backgrounds.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books and Sherry Harris via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 29, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
COURAGE UNDER FIRE by Lindsay McKenna is the second book in the Silver Creek contemporary romantic suspense series. The protagonists are Carissa (COURAGE UNDER FIRE by Lindsay McKenna is the second book in the Silver Creek contemporary romantic suspense series. The protagonists are Carissa (Cari) Taylor and Chase Bishop. Cari has her own beekeeping consulting business in California and loves it. However, when she gets a call from the county sheriff, her life is about to change. Her stepbrother, who has vowed to kill her, has escaped from prison. Luckily, Cari lands a job on a large range in Silver Creek, Wyoming. Ex-Marine Corp sniper, Chase Bishop runs the 80,000 acre family ranch. He is trying to add organic honey production to the ranch’s diverse operations. When his initial beekeeper suddenly leaves, he hires Cari.
Both Cari and Chase are likeable characters with a lot of chemistry. They have similar values but have approached life very differently. Cari is strong, intelligent and believes in herself. She is used to working in a field that is dominated by men. Chase shows respect for others and treats women as equals. He is diversifying the ranch by including honeybees for honey, a raptor rehabilitation center, organic vegetables and much more. The secondary characters played a background role and weren’t as well developed. However, they may show up in future books in the series.
The writing and discussions gave me a strong sense of the Three Bars Ranch and the people of Silver Creek. While the dialogue felt natural, there was some repetitiveness in some areas; especially around Chase’s attitudes and treatment of women. While it was important to the story to acknowledge this, it seemed to be repeated a little too often.
This book has a lot of details in it on topics as diverse as beekeeping, raptor rehabilitation and military sniping. I felt this added depth and made the book more realistic. Additionally, I learned a lot while reading the novel. While it may have been a little over the top in some respects, it left me feeling good that people are finding innovative ways to save family ranches.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was an entertaining book that was emotionally intense at times. The author did a good job of meshing the romance and the suspense without either suffering. If you are a fan of contemporary romantic suspense without instant love, then you may want to check out this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Kensington Books – Zebra and Lindsay McKenna provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for February 23, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
WOLF UNTAMED by Paige Tyler is the eleventh book in the SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team paranormal romantic suspense series and is set in contemporary tWOLF UNTAMED by Paige Tyler is the eleventh book in the SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team paranormal romantic suspense series and is set in contemporary times in Dallas, Texas.
Officer Diego Martinez and his fellow SWAT team members are at another crime scene. When he meets newly turned werewolf Brandon Harlow and the teenager’s mother, Bree, life gets interesting. As the SWAT team’s big case converges with Bree’s case as an insurance investigator, the danger and action ramps up quickly. Diego and Bree are fantastic characters. While Diego is an alpha and protective, Bree is a strong female protagonist. They balance each other well. There is an immediate attraction, but the first steamy scene isn’t until about 60 percent of the way through the book. Not only does this allow Diego and Bree to get to know each other, but the reader also gets insights into their strengths and flaws. Besides Diego and Bree being compelling characters that felt three-dimensional, Brandon shows significant growth during the course of the book. The secondary characters were well-rounded and the antagonist was well-drawn. The prologue gives some background on Diego. I wish this had somehow been incorporated into the main part of the book rather than being a flashback in time.
The plot was complex with lots of twists and turns and the stakes were high. The significant amount of danger and action kept me fully engaged and made this a true page turner for me. The author uses a unique take on werewolves and does a good job of explaining this.
This is a riveting story with protagonists that I liked and cheered on as their cases progressed and became ever more dangerous. It held my attention fully and contained the elements that I love in this genre of books. This is definitely a book that delivers on escapism through attraction, friendship, family, romance and love while also tackling serious issues including anger, stressful situations, crime sprees, suicide and changes in life, family relationships, drugs and selfless sacrifice for others.
Overall, it was suspenseful, full of danger, and heartwarming. This combination kept me fully engaged and delivered on the promise of its premise and opening scenes. The subplots tied together well, the main characters were strong and the ending was explosive. If you enjoy thrilling paranormal romantic suspense novels, then I recommend you check out this series. There is enough background that WOLF UNTAMED can be read as a standalone. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.
SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Paige Tyler provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for November 24, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
THE GARDEN OF PROMISES AND LIES by Paula Brackston is a well-written and entertaining mix of historical fiction, fantasy, time travel and suspense. ItTHE GARDEN OF PROMISES AND LIES by Paula Brackston is a well-written and entertaining mix of historical fiction, fantasy, time travel and suspense. It is the third book in the Found Things series and readers will benefit from reading the series in order as there are references to events in previous books. The novel is set in and around Marlborough, a market town in the English county of Wiltshire in a mix of contemporary times and 1815.
Our protagonist, Xanthe, and her mother Flora live in Marlborough above their antique store, The Little Shop of Found Things. Xanthe has found that she can time travel to address injustices, an ability known to a few as Spinning. Also, objects sing and whisper to her. When Benedict Fairfax shows up in contemporary times coerces Xanthe’s assistance and an antique wedding dress calls to her at an auction, she knows that the two are somehow connected and she will once again be time traveling. But how will she determine what the dress needs her to do? Will the Spinner notebook she discovered provide the necessary information and will she be able to interpret it accurately? Who can she trust in the past?
Xanthe has gained some confidence in herself and her ability to understand what the found objects need her to do. However, she is still learning what it means to be able to travel to other times and places. Fairfax is well-portrayed as her nemesis and his motivations are personal to his history and upbringing. Secondary characters provide the emotional support that Xanthe needs at this juncture of her understanding of Spinning. They also bring realism to life through their quirkiness, hobbies and personalities.
Paula Brackston does a great job in giving the reader a sense of both time and place, and her descriptions help the reader to travel with Xanthe. The story has history, mystery, suspense, danger, deceit, uncertainty, secrets, a villain, hope, friendship, duty to family and much more.
Despite a somewhat slow start, overall, this is a steadily paced novel that brings history to life with an entertaining story that is both suspenseful, dramatic and emotional. Be prepared for the imagery to engage your visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory senses. While the climax was not a total surprise, the cliffhanger ending left me wanting more.
Readers that enjoy time travel mixed with suspense and history should enjoy this novel. I look forward to reading more books by Paula Brackston.
Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and Paula Brackston for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 15, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
ALL THE COLORS OF NIGHT by Jayne Ann Krentz is the second book in the Fogg Lake paranormal romantic suspense series and is set in contemporary times iALL THE COLORS OF NIGHT by Jayne Ann Krentz is the second book in the Fogg Lake paranormal romantic suspense series and is set in contemporary times in Washington state and Las Vegas, Nevada. What a fantastic read! I was hooked with the first sentence. Sierra Raines was falsely accused of a con when working for a big auction house. Now she functions as a go-between by finding and transporting objects with a psychic provenance. North Chastain has a paranormal ability to track down dangerous psychic criminals. When North’s father ends up in a coma, North hires Sierra to help him track down an artifact that might save his father. What caused the coma? Does an artifact exist that can save him? Will North and Sierra be able to work together? What will they find when they investigate the dark side of the paranormal world?
Sierra and North are fantastic, but flawed protagonists. Both are smart and have past histories that haunt them. Krentz does a great job of making them multidimensional showing change and growth as the novel progresses. This is a case where the protagonists balance each other well. The secondary characters play a definite backseat role in this book, but they enhanced the story without overwhelming it.
The world-building was clear and intricate; smoothly adding paranormal aspects to contemporary times. The plot was complex with lots of twists and turns and the stakes were high. The tension and action kept me fully engaged and made this a true page turner for me.
This is a riveting story with protagonists that I could relate to, like, and cheer on as their escapades became ever more dangerous. Surprises along the way kept me guessing what would be uncovered in their journey together. Several themes run through the tale including family relationships and history, ethics, romance, murder, trust, mental health and much more.
Overall, it was an exciting, suspenseful, fast-paced and unique story that I did not want to put down. The combination of action, suspense, danger, intrigue, chemistry, romance and more kept me fully engaged. The subplots tied together well, the main characters were strong, intelligent and loyal, and the action had my heart racing. It does leave one subplot point unresolved which could be a thread in book three of the series. If you enjoy thrilling paranormal romantic suspense novels, then I highly recommend you check out this series. There is enough background that ALL THE COLORS OF NIGHT can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading them in order. I’m looking forward to book three.
Berkley Publishing Group provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 5, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
THE VANISHING AT LOXBY MANOR by Abigail Wilson brings Regency romance, mystery, intrigue and suspense to life in her newest historical romantic suspenTHE VANISHING AT LOXBY MANOR by Abigail Wilson brings Regency romance, mystery, intrigue and suspense to life in her newest historical romantic suspense novel, set in 1816 in Kent England in the village of East Whitloe.
After five years, our protagonist, Charity Halliwell, returns to Loxby Manor, the home of friends and her only love, Piers Cavanagh. When her friend, Seline, disappears the night Charity arrives, Charity is determined to find her. Can she rebuild her friendship with Piers and rely on Piers, who has been branded a coward and been living as an outcast for the last five years? Every person Charity meets seems to have a secret, but they’re not the only ones. She also has a secret that has fundamentally changed how she approaches life. Questions abound in this story. Where is Seline? What are the secrets of the Cavanaghs and their neighbors? What is Charity’s secret? Why did Piers become an outcast and live in a cottage in Liverpool?
Once again, this author drew me into the book quickly. The characters were compelling, led by strong and capable Charity. Despite her secrets, she came across as intelligent and resilient, but with some trust issues. The secondary characters had a variety of attributes, qualities and flaws that were realistic. This story managed to showcase the emotional landscape of several characters, bringing them to life to this reader. The plot was suspenseful, fresh, complex and entertaining. The conflicts were both internal and external, arising from characterization and circumstance. There were plenty of plot twists and turns with a couple of them being a complete surprise. The tension, stakes and action in the last third of the book also turned this into a page-turner after a somewhat slow start. What an exciting and dramatic ending!
Once again, this author has brought mystery, romance, disappearances, family dynamics, secrets and much more come to life in a delightful novel. Her attention to detail made me feel like I was actually living in 1816 with Charity and Piers. At various times, it was poignant, heartbreaking and uplifting. The accurate and specific cultural aspects created an authenticity that one does not always find in novels.
Overall, this was an enjoyable and fabulous read. This is the second book I have read by this author and I am looking forward to the next one. I recommend it to those that enjoy historical romantic suspense and historical mystery novels.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Thomas Nelson—FICTION and Abigail Wilson via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 26, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
GOOD GIRL by Mel Sherratt is the fourth book in the DS Grace Allendale British crime and police procedural series set in England. The author brought tGOOD GIRL by Mel Sherratt is the fourth book in the DS Grace Allendale British crime and police procedural series set in England. The author brought this reader an intense and intriguing story. Sixteen-year-old Erin Ellis is attacked on her way home with her best friend Molly. Despite the paramedics’ efforts, Erin dies and the mugging becomes a murder investigation. DS Grace Allendale works the case with several others and is also assigned to liaise with Erin’s family. Was this simply a mugging gone wrong or was Erin targeted? How could this happen when she was only a short distance from home in a quiet neighborhood? Is else is going on in the community? With few clues, Grace and the team do extensive interviews as the crime scene team look for evidence.
Grace is a great protagonist. She has a family history that haunts her, but is hardworking and dedicated to justice and protecting the innocent. She continues to gain more depth in each book and is a compelling character with clear goals. The secondary characters were well-rounded and enhanced the story, but the reader doesn’t get a lot of background on Grace’s co-workers. There are several familiar characters from book three of the series, making the large cast more manageable.
The plot switches back and forth between current times and events that occurred during the past year. While this could have been a distraction or interrupted the overall flow, the author managed the transitions smoothly. It was an excellent way to provide needed data using showing versus telling.
This is a slow-build story but it flows well and the edginess kept me engaged. There are lots of twists and turns in this engrossing and shocking book. There was a good pace from scene to scene. The tension was high and this reader was on an emotional rollercoaster throughout most of the story making it a page-turner. The subplots tied together well. While I was not surprised by who the killer was, I was caught off-guard by other events that occurred in the book. Themes explored include murder, assault, family, friendship, coerciveness, grief, exploitation, drugs, alcohol and much more that is withheld due to spoilers.
Overall, I enjoyed this well-written and gripping novel and recommend the series to those that enjoy crime dramas and police procedurals. It is the second book that I have read by this author and I am looking forward to reading the first two in the series. This is an amazing “new to me” author and GOOD GIRL did not disappoint me. This author delivered on the promise of the novel’s premise and opening scenes.
Thanks to Avon Books UK and Mel Sherratt for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for December 10, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
WHITEOUT by Adriana Anders is the first book in the Survival Instincts romantic suspense and adventure series and is set mainly in Antarctica. TheWHITEOUT by Adriana Anders is the first book in the Survival Instincts romantic suspense and adventure series and is set mainly in Antarctica. The author brought this reader an intense and action-filled adventure story.
Angel Smith has spent the summer as a chef at a remote research station and is ready to leave before winter sets in when the station is attacked. She and glaciologist Ford (Coop) Cooper barely escape, but there are few places to go. They have no power, no way to contact the outside world, and a team of mercenaries chasing them. Can Angel and Coop get to safety? Can they take enough food and essentials to survive the trek? Who attacked the research station and what was the impetus for the attack? Was it successful? What follows is a suspenseful survival story with a romance weaved into the story line.
Angel is a character that you definitely can root for, but Coop is rather reserved and harder to get to know. However, the progression of their relationship made sense as a partnership for survival and some initial attraction was tested by the need to survive.
The author brought a strong sense of place to light in this novel. The subzero temperatures, harshness and inhospitableness of Antarctica was balanced with its beauty, isolation and peacefulness. However, the book was short on dialogue in places. Some of this was necessary due to the circumstances. Instead, there is a lot of introspection by both Angel and Coop which added depth to their characters. Additionally, there is some insight into the villains in this story and we get perspectives from a couple of them which enriches the tale. Running from the past, danger, action, steamy scenes and much more kept this reader entertained and wondering what could happen next.
Overall, this novel kept me engaged and made me grateful that I was not enduring the stark reality of wind, snow, and cold that Angel and Coop faced. I have read other books set in Antarctica, but this one is by far the best. I felt somewhat let down by several loose ends. I know the epilogue set up the next novel, but I would have preferred that the information was put at the beginning of the next book in the series. What a cliffhanger! Despite, this, I am looking forward to reading book two which is currently slated to be published August 31, 2021.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date was January 28, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
A MURDER BETWEEN THE PAGES by Amy Lillard brings small town living, a cozy book store/coffee shop, quirky characters and humor to this cozy mystery. IA MURDER BETWEEN THE PAGES by Amy Lillard brings small town living, a cozy book store/coffee shop, quirky characters and humor to this cozy mystery. It is the second book in the Main Street Book Club Mysteries series and is set in Sugar Springs, Mississippi.
Our protagonist, Arlo Stanley, is co-owner of a bookstore and coffee shop with her high school friend, Chloe Carter. Arlo started a Friday night book club which three octogenarians, Fern, Camille, and Helen, joined. Their next book selection is by a local, deceased author and focuses on a missing girl. The women believe the book was inspired by a cold case that occurred in their town during the 1970’s. When another young woman, Haley, dies at the house where the girl disappeared, the book club decides to investigate both cases. What happened fifty years ago? Did the girl run away or was she murdered? Did Haley have an accident or is there something more sinister behind her death?
Arlo is a character that seems to be the ‘straight man’ to the three octogenarians who were the stars of the book in my eyes. She tries to keep them out of trouble, but continues to be pulled into their shenanigans. This makes for some comical scenes that lighten some very serious themes. However, we gain insight into Arlo’s personality through her interactions with these women and this makes her feel more real and relatable. Her voice manifested in her mindset, vocabulary, opinions, body language and her internal narrative. There are a lot of characters to get to know rather quickly, but if you pay attention, they become clear and distinct.
The author did a great job of creating a strong sense of place. The first part of the book had several instances of “telling” rather than “showing” and this detracted from the initial flow. However, as events transpired and the action picked up, I soon felt like I was living the events alongside the characters. There were several twists in the book, but most of them were not great surprises except for the last sentence in the book.
If you like entertaining and amusing cozy mysteries, then this is one you should check into. It worked well as a standalone novel, but would likely add background and depth if read in order. This is the first book that I have read by this author and I look forward to enjoying the next book in the series.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Amy Lillard for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for November 24, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
COLD WIND by Paige Shelton is a well-written mystery novel that combines traditional police detective work and amateur sleuthing. It is the second booCOLD WIND by Paige Shelton is a well-written mystery novel that combines traditional police detective work and amateur sleuthing. It is the second book in the Alaska Wild series. The story is set in Benedict, Alaska and centers around Beth Rivers, a successful thriller writer known as Elizabeth Fairchild. Beth is still hiding and recovering in Alaska while the Missouri police look for her stalker turned kidnapper. When two muddy eight- or nine- year-old girls show up at her office and then a body is found, it is only the beginning of the mysteries that unfold. Why are the girls by themselves? Who are their parents? Who is the dead person? Will Beth’s kidnapper finally be arrested? Will she stay in Alaska? Will Beth learn to fully trust more people in the Benedict community? These are only a few of the questions that must be answered.
Beth’s character was well-developed. She continues to be a flawed protagonist that also has shown some growth through making friends and learning to deal with her post traumatic stress disorder, but she still keeps secrets and finds it hard to trust people. Several of the secondary characters gained depth in book two of this series as some secrets are revealed while others continue to add to the enjoyment of the book. There are a large number of characters in this story, but several of them were introduced in book one so it felt like I was catching up with old friends.
The author does a great job of portraying the hardships and lack of amenities as well as the friendships, pace of life, the wonders, and the dangers of living in and around small town Alaska. I could easily visualize the town, the people, the road conditions, the cold, the isolation and much more.
This is a riveting story that hooked me with the first chapter and kept me interested throughout. It’s suspenseful and there are twists and turns and surprises along the way in an intricate plot that kept me guessing. From the small town residents to the descriptions of Alaska to the various mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Several themes run through the tale including murder, drug addiction, disappearances, PTSD and much more.
Overall, it was a solid mystery that was engaging, suspenseful, fast-paced and compulsively readable. While it does leave one major plot point unresolved, all others were resolved. If you enjoy well-written mysteries, then I recommend you check out this series. The books are best read in order, but there is enough background that COLD WIND could be read as a standalone. I’m looking forward to book three.
St. Martin’s Press - Minotaur Books and Paige Shelton provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is set for December 1, 2020. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
THE WOMAN OUTSIDE MY DOOR is a psychological thriller and the debut novel of Rachel Ryan. From the first page to the dramatic ending, I couldn’t stop THE WOMAN OUTSIDE MY DOOR is a psychological thriller and the debut novel of Rachel Ryan. From the first page to the dramatic ending, I couldn’t stop reading.
Georgina is the protagonist in this unforgettable story. She and Bren have a seven year old son, Cody. When she finds that Cody has some chocolate, he tells her that New Granny gave it to him. Then she finds him talking on the phone. Is it New Granny or a school mate? Bren thinks it’s just a game where Cody is dealing with the grief of recently losing his grandmother, but Georgina isn’t sure. What is real and what is her imagination? Is New Granny an imaginary friend or is something else happening? Is Cody in danger? Bren starts to question Georgina’s behavior and thinks she is being irrational. Is Georgina being paranoid? Is she having an emotional breakdown?
Georgina was a flawed protagonist, lacking confidence and having trouble communicating with her family. Despite getting aggravated at her several times, I continued to root for her. Her goals were clear and her motivations seemed believable. Her character felt realistic in the sense that she is struggling with work-life balance and wants to protect her child. Many of the secondary characters enhanced the story, but they were not always likeable nor did they have the depth that I would have liked. However, the characters acted or reacted to events in a plausible and believable way.
The internal and external conflicts arose out of characterization and circumstance rather than feeling contrived or forced. The stakes were extremely high and so was the tension, making this a page-turner. There were a couple of plot twists that were believable, but unexpected. Most of the subplots tied together well, but there was one that was not resolved to my satisfaction. The prose flowed well and the emotions of the characters came through vividly. One downside is that the premise did not totally avoid clichés as it related to the relationship between Georgina and Bren. Also, the revelations in the last part of the book would have benefited from a little more development. Themes include child safety, family dynamics, infidelity, secrets, lack of communication, mental health, stress, grief and much more.
Overall, this was a suspenseful, chilling, unsettling and definitely somewhat creepy thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. It had a good pace from scene to scene and had a dramatic ending that caught me by surprise. What an amazing debut novel! I’m looking forward to Ryan’s next novel. If you enjoy psychological thrillers, then I recommend you check out this one.
Thanks to Gallery Books and Rachel Ryan for a digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for January 05, 2021. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
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