All the Dark Places by Terri Parlato is a suspenseful and atmospheric mystery thriller. This debut novel is well crafted and hooked me in the firsAll the Dark Places by Terri Parlato is a suspenseful and atmospheric mystery thriller. This debut novel is well crafted and hooked me in the first chapter. Molly Bradley has thrown a fortieth birthday party for her husband Jay with their closest friends gathered for the event. Everyone loved Jay, but the next morning Molly finds Jay dead in his home office in the detached garage.
Detective Rita Myers and her partner Detective Chase Fuller, with the Graybridge, Massachusetts police department, get the case. Jay’s murder doesn’t seem to be a crime of opportunity or random. Did one of his and Molly’s friends kill him? As the police dig into Jay’s life and those of their friends, everyone becomes a suspect. Meanwhile, Molly is devastated. Jay is the only person who really understands the horror she lived through when she was young. Now, her rock is gone. Who can Molly trust and who killed Jay?
Molly is haunted by her past, but readers only gradually learn what happened to her. She no longer feels safe. However, some of the things she does made me believe she wasn’t thinking straight. I found myself asking multiple times: Why did Molly do that? Rita is an experienced Boston police officer and detective who accepted the job in Graybridge when a friend became the police chief there. She loves training new detectives, has recently turned sixty, and still likes the challenge of the job and solving mysteries.
This fascinating story is told from the points of view of Molly and Rita. It had the combined aspects of a police procedural, a murder mystery, and a psychological thriller. As readers, we get clues as the characters do. Will you guess who the killer is?
This author brought a wide variety of characters together, but they weren’t extremely diverse. I hope that changes in the next novel. Most of the characters are self-confident, but are their stories truths or lies?
With a strong start to the novel, readers have to decipher the clues with Molly and Rita. Everyone seems to have secrets. The plot is deeply involved with several twists to the story to keep readers captivated to its dramatic conclusion.
Parlato brought suspense, interesting characters, and an exciting story line together in a thrilling novel. I am looking forward to reading her next book. I would also love to see a series featuring Rita. If you enjoy intriguing police procedurals, mysteries, and psychological thrillers, then this may be the book for you.
Kensington Books and Terri Parlato provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for December 27 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------------- My 3.98 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
Carolyn Arnold’s first book in her Sara and Sean Cozy Mystery series brings a mixture of police investigation and undercover sleuthing to this story fCarolyn Arnold’s first book in her Sara and Sean Cozy Mystery series brings a mixture of police investigation and undercover sleuthing to this story full of humor, crimes, romance, and vibrant characters. Sara Cain is a homicide detective with the Albany, New York police department who is working on a mystery novel at night. When she needs to clear her head, she goes for a walk and finds Magnum, a dog she recognizes from the neighborhood. She returns him home and finds Cliff Cunningham dead on the entry floor. While Detective Davenport is assigned to case, Sara and her friend and work partner, Detective Sean McKinley, decide to do their own sleuthing when it seems the prime suspect is a friend of Sara’s mother.
Sara is smart, independent, grounded, has a great memory, and loves to drink coffee. Sean is more guarded and skeptical, but he’s also positive, charming, and continually has women wanting to date him. Readers learn these traits as well as the backstories of Sara and Sean as the story unfolds through actions, dialogue, and mannerisms. The backstories provide needed insight into their behaviors and actions towards others. Detective Davenport is rather stereotyped as nearing retirement, being irritating to others, and doing the minimal work required on his cases.
There are multiple threads to follow in this initial novel in the series. These include Sara’s and Sean’s assigned case to search for the killer of Aubrey Southgate during the day, their undercover sleuthing into Cliff’s murder, and their personal lives. This makes the plot twistier than many cozy mysteries. Scenes were exciting, heartrending, joyous, and suspenseful. The story captivated me from the beginning with a good plot and characters that are emotionally rich. I was immediately drawn into Sara’s and Sean’s lives and investigations. The novel shines a light on murder, relationships, friendship, family, life’s curveballs, and romance. My biggest quibble is that the setting could have been any city and did not give me a great feel for Albany.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was suspenseful, engaging, entertaining, and humorous. While it’s very different from the other books I have read by this author, I found the writing style relatable, vivid, and irresistible. This was an excellent start to the series. I can’t wait to find out what happens during the next book. Readers who like cozy mysteries with humor and romance may find this one a winner for them.
Hibbert & Stiles Publishing Inc. and Carolyn Arnold 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 expected to be April 11, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------------- My 3.84 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
The Forever Witness: How DNA and Genealogy Solved a Cold Case Double Murder by Edward Humes is a suspenseful, riveting true crime book that combinThe Forever Witness: How DNA and Genealogy Solved a Cold Case Double Murder by Edward Humes is a suspenseful, riveting true crime book that combines great storytelling, cold case investigations, technological advances, and genetic genealogy in a captivating crime read. In November 1987, Tanya Van Cuylenborg and her boyfriend Jay Cook leave on an overnight trip to Seattle. They vanish until a week later when their bodies are found in rural Washington. The brutal crime leaves few clues and an international manhunt turns up empty. The case and evidence eventually goes into long-term storage until thirty plus years later when Detective Jim Scharf looks at the case files hoping to find new clues that were missed in the original investigation.
The prologue gets one’s heart racing and immediately pulls readers into what is happening. Then readers get a look at the case from the beginning including the pieces of the puzzle that Detective Scharf and his team pull together of the trip taken by the young couple, the struggle the families had to get the police involved initially, and the original investigation, as well as the next steps Scharf takes.
Humes provides the latest information on their case at the time of writing the book. This includes using DNA advances to help identify suspects as well as re-interviewing people, looking for missed opportunities in the original investigation, looking at other ways to identify a suspect, and much more. Detective Scharf contacts various genealogists for help including CeCe Moore. Meanwhile there is a discussion of technological advances in police investigations, including those involving DNA, ranging from DNA fingerprints to a national DNA database known as the Combined DNA Index System.
However, more is also occurring in the realm of DNA, with DNA matching originating from amateur genealogists searching for their roots. This includes CeCe Moore, who has had a fascination with genetic genealogy and how it can be used, not just for family tree hobbyists and adoptees hoping to find their birth parents, but also for solving cold cases.
Additionally, Parabon, a firm in Virginia, says it has the capability of creating genetic mugshots. The book covers the use of genetic mugshots and genetic genealogy in Jay and Tanya’s case and how CeCe Moore and Parabon work together to identify a suspect. There’s a fascinating discussion of the proponents and opponents to using genetic genealogy as a crime-fighting technique among genealogists, police organizations, keepers of genetic databases, and privacy advocates.
Overall, this story is startling, horrifying, thought provoking, and emotional. The author has a notes section at the end that explains who was interviewed and the sources of information used to construct this true crime story. Additionally, the author does a great job of explaining the science and the controversies in terms that can be easily understood. Those that enjoy well-written and suspenseful true crime and books involving genealogy or DNA will likely find this an amazing story.
PENGUIN GROUP Dutton and Edward Humes 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 29, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------------------- My 4.56 rounded to 5 stars review will be coming soon....more
All the Blood We Share by Camilla Bruce is a historical fiction novel based on a real family of serial killers known at the Bloody Benders. While All the Blood We Share by Camilla Bruce is a historical fiction novel based on a real family of serial killers known at the Bloody Benders. While the names of the family aren’t consistent in the retellings, Bruce uses William Bender, father of John, his wife Elvira, and her daughter Kate. William and John arrived in Labette County, Kansas near the small town of Cherryvale in 1871. Once their home and barn are built, Elvira and Kate arrive by train.
The newcomers are welcomed and use part of their home as a general store and inn for those passing along the nearby trail. Kate poses as a medium while she and Elvira also use potions to cure ills of the local inhabitants (for a price). However, the Benders are greedy and want a better life. People begin to disappear, and three of them are found dead. What has happened to the others that have disappeared? Are they dead or alive? Where are they?
The characterization of this novel is terrific. The actions, reactions, and descriptions gave me a clear picture of the Bender family members and several of the locals. William is calm, a planner, and always thinking of the future. However, he goes through a significant personality change during the course of the novel. Elvira seems erratic, greedy, bitter, and abusive to Kate. Kate is bold, shows no regret or sadness, and shows enjoyment in evil deeds. John works hard, but is jealous and angry. This mixed bag of traits made for an interesting and frightening mix in the novel.
The story alternates points of view between Kate, Elvira, and Hanson, a boy from the nearby trading station. This worked okay but occasionally disrupted the flow. Additionally, the writing was fluent at times and felt stilted and stylistic at other times. The world-building was so realistic and atmospheric, but it also made me shudder in horror at times. The novel brings strong, startling, and stressful images to life. The suspense involves who will live and who will die, as well as what will happen to the Benders. I didn’t expect several twists. The ending isn’t as definitive as I would have liked. Themes explored include family dynamics, relationships, greed, secrets, murder, anger, and jealousy.
Overall, this story is startling, violent, horrifying, thought provoking, and emotional, with great world-building and characterization. It was a hair-raising and chilling read. The author has a note section at the end that explains some of the many questions that remain about the Benders and where she has fictionalized the story.
Berkley Publishing Group and Camilla Bruce 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 22, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------- My 2.9 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
Wicked Dreams by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush is a suspenseful and atmospheric crime thriller with some supernatural elements. This fifth novel in Wicked Dreams by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush is a suspenseful and atmospheric crime thriller with some supernatural elements. This fifth novel in The Colony series was well crafted and hooked me in the prologue. A note pinned to a dead body has Ravinia Rutledge’s cell phone number and the words “Next of Kin”. Did he drown or was he murdered?
Ravinia left The Colony five years ago and has become a private investigator based in Portland, Oregon. However, Charlie, a man whom she and her sisters hoped was dead, may be back. If so, their lives are in danger. Detective Neville Rhodes is fascinated with The Colony and with Ravinia. As deaths continue to occur, Ravinia and Neville talk and attempt to stop the antagonist.
The characterization was excellent in this novel. Ravinia and Nev were both likeable characters and the antagonist was an adversary that I will not soon forget. While Ravinia is practical and levelheaded, she is willing to lie or withhold the truth to protect her family. Nev is finding his way as the newest detective in the police department. However, things haven’t been easy coming back to his childhood hometown where he’s forced to confront his past. The secondary characters played pivotal roles with both familiar faces and some new characters that added another dimension to the plot line.
This writing duo brings a twisty and chilling tale to readers. The tension kept me on the edge of my seat as I anxiously turned the pages. The psychic gifts that the members of Ravinia’s family have add additional depth to the crime thriller and romantic suspense aspects of the book. However, this is more of a crime thriller than a romantic suspense novel.
The world-building is phenomenal and fits well with the story line. Whether it’s Echo Island, the beach, or Siren Song, I could easily visualize the settings. The plot is deeply involved with several twists to the story to keep readers captivated all the way to its dramatic conclusion.
The authors brought suspense, interesting characters, and an exciting story line together in a thrilling novel. I am looking forward to reading more stories by these two gifted writers. If you enjoy intriguing crime thrillers with a little romance and some supernatural suspense, then this may be the book for you. I highly recommend reading the books in order. There are a large number of characters, and introduction over time helps.
Kensington Books, Lisa Jackson, and Nancy Bush provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for December 27, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------- My 4.09 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Jacqueline Bublitz’s debut novel, Before You Knew My Name, is heartbreaking and thought-provoking. At 36, Ruby Jones decides to move to NYC for siJacqueline Bublitz’s debut novel, Before You Knew My Name, is heartbreaking and thought-provoking. At 36, Ruby Jones decides to move to NYC for six months from Australia. She needs to be shaken out of her current state of aloneness and get a fresh start on life. Alice Lee turns eighteen on the day she arrived in New York City (NYC) with $600, a few clothes, and a stolen camera. One month later, Alice is dead, but her story continues. When Ruby finds a woman’s body by the Hudson River, she and Alice are connected. While Ruby wants to forget what she saw, she can’t. Can she solve Alice’s death and give her closure?
The complex characterization is first-rate for Alice and Ruby as well as many of the secondary characters. Their hope, sadness, and loneliness are palpable. Both characters change and grow as they respond to events. I cared about them and they were easy to like.
This novel is unique with it’s narration by Alice after her death. For the majority of the book, others know her only as Jane Doe or Riverside Jane. The story goes beyond who murdered “Jane” to who was “Jane”. Readers learn from Alice about her life before her death, including her month in NYC. They also gain insight into Ruby’s desire for a change in her life.
This book has a solid premise and a mystery, but it’s much more than that. There’s a focus on the victim and the one who found her more than the murder itself. It’s about the ability for all to walk safely on streets. Taking control of your life and the effects of trauma on those who encounter it are explored, including flashbacks, paranoia, and hypervigilance. It’s about finding a murder victim and having a young life full of opportunity cut short. News coverage bias and remembering the victims is explored. Other themes include starting over, safety, freedom, hope, grief, surviving, friendship, trust issues, assault, murder, and deaths. My biggest quibble is the pacing felt slow at times. The story switches between characters frequently.
Overall, this story is gripping, thought-provoking, and emotional, with wonderful characterization and many scenes of heartache and hope. While this is fictional, violence and murder against women is an occurrence that is all too frequent in today’s world. This was a new author for me and I can’t wait to dive into another one of her stories. This incredible novel will be remembered for a long time.
Atria Books, Atria/Emily Bestler Books and Jacqueline Bublitz 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 1, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------------- My 3.7 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
A cold case, multiple disappearances, a sheriff’s deputy, a search-and-rescue dog, and a former corporate lawyer are combined into a great romantic suA cold case, multiple disappearances, a sheriff’s deputy, a search-and-rescue dog, and a former corporate lawyer are combined into a great romantic suspense novel. Laura Griffin’s Vanishing Hour has just the right mix of romance, suspense, police investigation, mystery, and action to capture and hold a reader’s interests. Ava Burch has given up her corporate law position to go into business with her friend Jenna. Theirs is the only law firm in Cuervo, Texas. She also volunteers for search and rescue operations with her dog, Huck. Grant Wycoff is a sheriff’s deputy who doesn’t think Ava has any business being on a team with outdoorsmen, rangers, and police officers in a serious search and rescue mission. However, Ava and Huck find more than expected and they need to work with Grant when another person disappears.
Both Ava and Grant have strong work ethics and integrity. However, Ava’s father was a game warden who was frequently away from home and ultimately he and her mother divorced. This plus his death and the resulting grief and unresolved issues affect how Ava perceives law enforcement officers. Grant cares deeply about people, but is subject to frequent call-outs that can disrupt plans. However, he seemed very quick to judge Ava based on her choice of clothing and vehicle rather than on facts. This seemed more aggravating to me than to Ava, which felt out of character for her. Their chemistry grew slowly as they became better acquainted. The other characters had a variety of depths based on their roles. Ava’s friend Jenna’s struggles with her father’s Alzheimer’s will resonate with many readers. I felt Sheriff Donovan’s attitude needed an adjustment that never materialized.
This book has a solid mystery with some twists and turns that will keep readers guessing. Friendship, lies, deception, disappearances, romance, family, grief, and much more are at the heart of this story. The world-building is excellent. Readers will feel the heat, see the downtown stores, connect with the well-developed and relatable main characters, and feel like they are joining Ava and Huck and search and rescue missions. My only quibble is that there was some telling versus showing.
Overall, this engaging and entertaining romantic suspense has wonderful characterization, a little spice, and some great action. Those who enjoy romantic suspense novels will likely enjoy this book. This was a new author for me and I can’t wait to dive into another one of her stories. This one has the right mix of mystery, suspense, action, and romance.
Berkley Publishing Group and Laura Griffin 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 October 25, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------------- My 4.21 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
Alexis Henderson brings a chilling atmosphere to her latest novel, House of Hunger. I’ve seen this book classified as historical fantasy and gothiAlexis Henderson brings a chilling atmosphere to her latest novel, House of Hunger. I’ve seen this book classified as historical fantasy and gothic horror. Both are fitting for this tale of wickedness, deceit, lies, and passion. Marion Shaw was raised in the slums of Prane, works as a maid for the hateful Lady Gertrude, and lives with her older brother who spends most of his time drunk or high. She longs to escape her life of deprivation and finally sees an opportunity when she reads a newspaper listing seeking a bloodmaid.
Marion doesn’t know much about the far north where nobles live in luxury and drink the blood of those in service to them. She soon finds herself the newest bloodmaid for the House of Hunger where Countess Lisavet and her court engage in their ideas around the pursuit of pleasure. Marion wants to please Lisavet, but there’s more going on than meets the eye. When another bloodmaid disappears one night, Marion is determined to find out what happened to her.
Marion is a convincing protagonist and is well-drawn. She feels guilt, but is determined to make a better life for herself. However, she’s somewhat naïve for someone who grew up on the streets and comes across as too trusting. The other characters had various degrees of depth, but a few weren’t developed as much as I would have liked.
The premise is great, and while there was a sense of potential danger, it didn’t quite create the suspense and sense of urgency that I expected during most of the book. After a strong beginning, the pacing slows during the middle section of the story. However, the last 25 percent is very dramatic and action-packed, but somewhat rushed. There are many disturbing scenes scattered throughout the novel. While vampires are never mentioned, there are plenty of hints around why Lisavet needs blood. However, why do her nobles need it? Any more details would be spoilers. The world-building is fantastic from the slums of Prane to Lady Gertrude’s home to the huge isolated mansion on an island in the far north. Themes include class, race, jealousy, contempt, mistrust, depravity, despair, power, wealth, gender, passion, friendship, and exploitation of others.
Overall, this story is engrossing, original, and has an impactful horror conclusion. If you enjoy gothic horror and historical fantasy, then this is a book to consider reading. It seemed right to read this during the fall.
Berkley Publishing Group –Ace and Alexis Henderson 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 September 27, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------ My 3.12 star rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
In the second book of the Artillerymen series, Taylor Anderson brings amazing world-building and characterization to this action-packed and suspensefuIn the second book of the Artillerymen series, Taylor Anderson brings amazing world-building and characterization to this action-packed and suspenseful novel. It’s 1847 and almost a year after four ships carrying Americans heading to Vera Cruz, Mexico were caught in a storm and shipwrecked on an alternative Earth. Instead of fighting in the Mexican-American war, they are fighting for their lives against both monster animals and humans. This series is set in the same world as the Destroyermen series.
Lewis Cayce and his group of artillerymen, infantrymen, and mounted riflemen have made friends in the Yucatan and built an army. This also repulsed the Holy Dominion army that was intent on killing their new allies. However, a more radical cult of Blood Priests has arisen. They pursue power and blood sacrifices. Cayce understands that the only option is offense, not defense. Outnumbered and less diabolical, can courage, trust, and imagination outwit and overcome the enemy?
The characters are complex and come to life through their words, actions, movements, thoughts, reactions, and mannerisms. There are many characters and it will help to read the first book in the series to have a handle on the core characters ahead of this novel. It was especially enjoyable to see the significant growth in both the main and several of the secondary characters.
The plot twists and turns with some unpredictable moments in the story. Beliefs, worldviews, and prejudices come under assault. Many live in fear of sacrifice. Ultimately, this is a fight between goodness, light, justice, tolerance, and equality versus evil, darkness, sacrifice, and a class system. Despite there being many battles in this novel, there is adequate time for great characterization and world-building.
The book is moving and suspenseful at times, and violent and disturbing at other times. As the tale unfolds, this reader became mentally and emotionally involved with the characters as well as the story itself. The stakes were high and made this vivid and memorable novel a true page-turner for me in. Additional themes woven into the story include protecting others, politics, power, greed, gender roles in war, and relationships of all types.
Overall, this story is engrossing, intense, and impactful. This book has a high level of tension and foreboding. The Epilogue sets up the next book in the series. Those that enjoy alternative history military thrillers or the Destroyermen series will likely enjoy this novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Berkley Publishing Group –Ace and Taylor Anderson 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 September 27, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------------- My 3.52 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
Amanda Flower brings great characterization and world-building to Because I Could Not Stop for Death, the first book in the Emily Dickinson historAmanda Flower brings great characterization and world-building to Because I Could Not Stop for Death, the first book in the Emily Dickinson historical mystery series. The novel begins in January 1855 with Willa Noble applying for a job at the Dickinson home in Amherst, Massachusetts. Despite being late, drenched, and covered in mud, Willa gets the job as a housemaid with Emily’s help. Tragedy strikes when Willa’s brother Henry is killed in an accident at the town’s stables. Willa tells Emily about it as well as her belief that it wasn’t an accident, but murder. Emily offers to help her investigate.
Mixing real-life individuals like the Dickinson family with fictional characters such as Willa and Henry made this an engaging historical fiction story. Both Willa and Emily are well-developed characters. Willa has a tendency to sacrifice herself for family and duty and is compassionate, hard working, and loyal, but lacks self-confidence. Emily is curious, aloof, writes furiously, and is willing to use her family’s wealth and prestige to get what she wants. While Emily didn’t change much during the course of the novel, Willa was more dynamic and grew more confident as the story unfolded.
This historical mystery brings to life the conflicting sentiments that existed in America at the time. This included how people in different social classes were treated and viewed, the attitudes toward and expectations of women, and the need for some to carry papers everywhere they went to prove they were free. The novel seems to be well-researched including the travel to and experiences in Washington D.C. that felt right for the times.
There are a few plot twists, but I was able to discern the antagonist relatively early with the clues provided. Despite this, I enjoyed the story and felt transported to the mid 1800’s. Based on my limited knowledge of the poet Emily Dickinson, she seemed to be well portrayed in this fictional portrayal of an early period in her life. The story is moving and suspenseful at times, but the pace felt somewhat slow. Additional themes woven into the story include grief, protecting others, bullying, politics, greed, and family relationships.
Overall, this story is engaging, well-written, and well-researched. This book is somewhat darker than most of the cozy mysteries I have read by this author. Those that enjoy historical mysteries, amateur sleuths, or are interested in Emily Dickinson will likely enjoy this novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
Berkley Publishing Group and Amanda Flower 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 September 20, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------- My 3.55 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
In The Wolf is Mine, Paige Tyler brings murder, kidnapping, magic, romance, action, and suspense to the thirteenth book in the SWAT: Special Wolf In The Wolf is Mine, Paige Tyler brings murder, kidnapping, magic, romance, action, and suspense to the thirteenth book in the SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team paranormal romantic suspense series. Set in contemporary times and mainly in Dallas, Texas, this novel features SWAT werewolf Connor Malone and Kat Davenport.
Connor Malone and some of his SWAT team are in San Antonio looking for their teammate. However, things go wrong at an abandoned site outside of the city. They’re fighting against a creature that may be more powerful than they are.
Back in Dallas, a powerful woman, Kat Davenport, claims she’s a friend of Connor’s and she needs the SWAT team’s help to defeat the magic wielder who has made her a feline for most of the last four years. When she and Connor meet again, their chemistry is blazing hot. How do they know each other?
Connor and Kat are fantastic characters. While Connor is an alpha and protective, Kat is a strong and powerful female protagonist. They balance each other well. Despite being attracted to each other, they keep their feelings to themselves for a while letting the attraction build instead of an instant romance. Characters from previous books in the series make appearances, but the focus is on Connor and Kat.
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.
It is a riveting story with protagonists that I liked and cheered on as their efforts to combat the powerful creature and the magic wielder progressed and became ever more dangerous and unusual. It held my attention fully and contained the elements that I love in this genre of books. This book delivers on escapism through attraction, friendship, family, romance, and love. At the same time, it tackles the serious issues of disappearances, evil, and family relationships. The addition of magic added another dimension to this novel, making it an exceptional read. While most conflicts and issues are resolved, there a thread that may end up in a future book.
Overall, it was suspenseful, full of danger, and action-packed. This engaging combination 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 this novel can be read as a standalone, but the series is best read in order.
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 January 10, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------------------- My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review will be coming soon....more
The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes is an atmospheric psychological thriller with an unreliable narrator. This debut novel features twenty-five yeThe House in the Pines by Ana Reyes is an atmospheric psychological thriller with an unreliable narrator. This debut novel features twenty-five year-old Maya who is still haunted by her childhood best friend’s death (Aubrey West) in front of herself and Frank Bellamy. Seven years after that incident, Maya has tried to start a new life. She has moved in with her boyfriend, Dan. She’s trying to kick a secret drug habit that started when they were originally prescribed for her after the incident in high school. Then Maya sees an online video of another girl sitting across a diner table from Frank. The girl dies on camera and Maya’s past hits her like a brick. With fuzzy memories of the events seven years ago, Maya is determined to discover the truth of what happened then and more recently.
Maya and Dan’s characters have depth. Maya is intelligent, loves poetry and reading, and likes a good buzz. However, she hasn’t been able to write after college. Is she delusional, is she in danger, or is it all a dream? Dan is kind, open and honest, loves books, is studying for law school exams, and is a procrastinator. The secondary characters of Maya’s mom, her friend, Aubrey, and Frank play pivotal roles in the story.
The premise for this book was good and the characterization and atmosphere were great, I felt the story could have taken place anywhere, not Boston, Amherst, and Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Additionally, the story felt disjointed. The story goes back and forth in time and this disrupted the flow and adversely affected the pace. Despite this, it’s a good novel with some important themes including addiction, communication, honesty, trust, and manipulation. I also learned something about Guatemala and its history of internal conflict. The way this information played into the story line was unique.
I definitely wanted to know what really happened to the two young women that died. Were their deaths natural? While the ending tied up most threads, there were still a couple left up in the air. I wanted more closure and less of an abrupt ending. However, the ending plot twist was unique and intriguing. The last 25 percent kept me turning the pages rapidly.
Overall, this psychological thriller felt menacing and chilling at times. It also had suspense, interesting characters, and a thought-provoking story line. If you enjoy psychological thrillers with an unreliable narrator, then this may be the book for you.
PENGUIN GROUP Dutton and Ana Reyes provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for January 03, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------- My 3.13 star rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
The Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore is a reimagining of the witch Baba Yaga from Russian folk tales. Rather than a wicked witch whoThe Witch and the Tsar by Olesya Salnikova Gilmore is a reimagining of the witch Baba Yaga from Russian folk tales. Rather than a wicked witch who stole children, readers meet a powerful healer and witch with vulnerabilities called Yaga. This retelling has a feminist slant to it. Other spirits and creatures from mythology and folk tales also play roles in this story set in Russia between 1560 and 1582. Yaga is a half-goddess possessing magic and living in a hut with chicken legs (Little Hen). With the hut and animals for company, she is lonely. Dyen, a wolf, and Noch, an owl, help her and communicate with her. Mortals seek her out only when they need healing.
Her old friend Anastasia, now married to Tsar Ivan Vasilyevich, visits Yaga, suffering from an unknown illness. Yaga realizes the fate of Russia is tied to Anastasia’s health and travels to Moscow to be with her. A volatile situation, an unknown antagonist, and the tsar being manipulated by one or more individuals are only the beginning of the problems.
The characterization was a mixed bag. Yaga didn’t seem to have the power, knowledge, and decision-making capability she should have had after living for centuries. Tsar Ivan the Terrible was well-done and brought chills to this reader.
The author weaves a story of light versus darkness that highlights Russian history, mythology, and folktales. The country seemed to come to life in this descriptive tale that has excellent world-building. However, the pacing was slow at times. Interspersed throughout the story are themes of power and ambition, expectations and rules for women, charity, hope, manipulation, mental health, blame, hatred, violence, murder, love, friendship, and family by choice as well as family by blood.
The narrative is rather straightforward and the plot didn’t have the twists and turns that I expected. However, the historical references to actual people and events added a significant layer of interest to the plot. The author’s note is especially helpful in getting insight into what the author wanted to accomplish as well as whether some events were real or fictional. There is also a glossary of key figures (historical, fairy tale, and mythological) as well as places that are key to the story. The historical content seemed well researched.
Overall, this was a violent and emotional story that kept me engaged. Those that enjoy reimagined folk tales and mythology may want to consider this book as their next read.
Berkley Publishing Group – Ace and Olesya Salnikova Gilmore 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 September 20, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------------------------------- My 3.21 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
Paige Shelton brings atmosphere, mystery, and heart to Winter’s End, the fourth book in the Alaska Wild series set in fictional Benedict, Alaska. Paige Shelton brings atmosphere, mystery, and heart to Winter’s End, the fourth book in the Alaska Wild series set in fictional Benedict, Alaska. This well-written novel combines traditional police detective work and amateur sleuthing. Secrets, murder, and a horrific experience that continues to haunt and traumatize the main character make for a suspenseful and riveting read.
Beth Rivers, a successful thriller writer known as Elizabeth Fairchild is still hiding and recovering in Alaska while the Missouri police look for her stalker turned kidnapper. Only a few locals know Beth’s story including police chief Gril Samuels and his deputy Donner.
With winter ending and springtime approaching, it’s time for a local tradition, the annual Death Walk. All citizens gather at the community center and check their name off a list. If anyone is missing, groups are assigned to go to their homes and confirm whether they are still alive or have died during the winter. A couple, Warren, and Al are missing. Beth, her dog, Gus, and Orin, the librarian, drive and then hike to 94 year-old Al’s cabin. He is alive, but is in bad shape. Beth stays with him while Orin goes to get help. Gril and Donner arrive a few hours later, but Orin has disappeared. However, Al isn’t the only one to not show up at the community center. Are they alive or dead? Was it forgetfulness or something more sinister?
Beth’s character is well-developed. She continues to be a flawed protagonist who 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. However, readers will see this dynamic character change in attitude and outlook as she responds to events. Several of the secondary characters gained depth in this book as secrets are revealed. This is especially true of Orin and Viola, the owner of the house where Beth rents a room. There are a large number of characters in this story, but several of them were introduced in the earlier books 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, the loneliness, and the dangers of living in and around small town Alaska. I could easily visualize the town, the people, the road conditions, the weather, and the isolation.
This story hooked me immediately and built momentum leading to an action-filled conclusion. 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 death, isolation, disappearances, secrets, dysfunctional families, feuds, and much more.
Overall, this enjoyable mystery was engaging, suspenseful, intriguing, and compulsively readable. The well-developed ideas with good pacing from scene to scene kept me turning the pages. 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 this one could be read as a standalone. I’m looking forward to book five.
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 6, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------- My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The Shadow Murders by Jussi Adler-Olsen is intriguing, suspenseful, and original. It is the ninth book in the Department Q series and has been traThe Shadow Murders by Jussi Adler-Olsen is intriguing, suspenseful, and original. It is the ninth book in the Department Q series and has been translated by William Frost. Detective Carl Morck, the leader of Department Q, the small cold case division in Copenhagen, Denmark, is given a recent suicide case. His superior, Marcus Jacobsen, believes it is related to an unsolved case from 1988. They are to drop other cases and work this one.
Carl’s team consists of Rose, Assad, and Gordon. As the four investigate, they realize Marcus is right. There is something going on. There have been unusual deaths every two years that have connections. Are they accidents, a series of coincidences, murders by a serial killer, or a combination of the three?
The author does a fantastic job of characterization. Every character seemed to come alive. Readers get a great sense of what they value in life and how they approach their days. Insights into Carl, Rose, Assad, and Gordon come over time and aren’t a data dump. Readers get a sense of both their personal and professional lives.
The prologue and a couple of chapters are flashbacks. Other than that, the chapters cover a short time period of November 30 to December 26, 2020. Each chapter focuses on a different individual, but the story moves smoothly between them. This police procedural and crime thriller has a stunning and deeply involved plot. The twists and turns will keep readers highly engaged and leads to an action-filled and emotional conclusion.
The book explores how individuals can twist religion and morality to suit their extremist views. Symbolism plays a role in this story line. Insight into the treatment of immigrants can be seen through Assad and the effects on his family as well as references to casual workers from other countries. The novel takes place during the Covid-19 pandemic. This adds difficulties and complexities to the investigation. There is a twist from the past that affects one of the major characters. This subplot is left unresolved and readers will have to read the final book in the series to see how it ends. This cliffhanger ending is my only quibble with the story.
Overall, this was an engaging, thought-provoking, and emotional story that kept me turning the pages rapidly. I am looking forward to reading the conclusion to this series. Those that enjoy well-done police procedurals and crime thrillers are encouraged to consider this book as their next read. Five books in the series have also been adapted into movies.
PENGUIN GROUP Dutton and Jussi Adler-Olsen 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 September 27, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------- My 4.21 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
The Winter Orphans by Kristin Beck is moving, suspenseful, and heart-wrenching. It’s also full of hope, danger, and courage. This historical fictiThe Winter Orphans by Kristin Beck is moving, suspenseful, and heart-wrenching. It’s also full of hope, danger, and courage. This historical fiction novel is largely set in southern France between August 1942 and November 1943. Parents often sent children fleeing Germans away to Belgium. Three years ago, that happened to Ella Rosenthal and her young sister, Hanni. Now they are sheltering with one hundred other young refugees in a derelict castle overseen by the Swiss Red Cross. There are other such “colonies” across southern France. Rosli Naf and Anne-Marie Piguet are two of the Swiss volunteers who want to protect the children. Rosli directs the colony where Ella and Hanni are sheltering. As the oldest children get closer to eighteen and Germany invades southern France, Rosli and Anne-Marie realize they have to smuggle the older teens out of France. Will they be successful? Who will survive?
Ella is often afraid, but she is protective of her sister and will do anything to help her survive, and that takes courage she didn’t know she had. She’s also quiet, gentle, and thinks while others talk. Rosli doesn’t consider herself good with feelings, but is great with rules. However, she is protective of the children in her care, strong, and courageous. Anne-Marie is younger, a caretaker in a different colony, and just as protective and courageous.
Told from the points of view of Ella, Rosli, and Anne-Marie, this novel is based on true events and real people. The courage of these three and many others is extraordinary in the face of so much adversity, hatred, and bullying. The story is heart-breaking at times and the tension and terror felt by the children is palpable. However, there is also bravery, standing up for what is right, kindness, moments of happiness, and a willingness to help others by some that lightens the story at times.
This story is well-written and well-researched. The prose immediately draws readers into the story and the world-building and atmosphere are so tangible one can feel the terror and the cold. This moving book has unforgettable characters and is a story that will stay with me. It took me on an emotional rollercoaster. While there was sadness, fear, and cruelty, there was also hope, love, kindness, and courage. The author’s note is well worth the read and explains which characters were real people that did astonishing things during this terrible time in world history and which were fictional, but inspired by others.
Overall, this was an engaging and emotional story of hope, fear, and bravery in the face in adversity. Those that enjoy historical fiction are encouraged to consider this book as their next read.
Berkley Publishing Group and Kristin Beck 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 September 13, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------- My 4.51 rounded to 5 stars review will be coming soon....more
Iris Yamashita blends a unique setting with diverse characters in this atmospheric debut mystery novel. City Under One Roof is thought-provoking, Iris Yamashita blends a unique setting with diverse characters in this atmospheric debut mystery novel. City Under One Roof is thought-provoking, clever, and full of secrets. Local teenager, Amy Lin, discovers a severed hand and foot washed up in a cove near Point Mettier, Alaska. Cara Kennedy, a detective from Anchorage comes to investigate the possible murder. She has her own personal reasons for doing so.
This isolated town can only be reached for part of the year via a tunnel, snowmobile, or helicopter. During the tourist season, a ferry is operated. However, a blizzard followed by an avalanche closes the tunnel while Cara is in the isolated town. Cara is stuck in town and rents an apartment at the Davidson Condos, a multi-storied building that houses all of the town’s residents. Cara teams up with local police officer Joe Barkowski to investigate, but soon other problems arise. How did the victim die? Who is it? What secrets are being kept by the local residents?
Several characters play major roles in the story and the points of view alternate between Cara, Amy, and a woman named Lonnie. Cara is haunted by her past. She suffers from PTSD and her grief can overwhelm her at times, but she is a great detective. Amy seems to be a typical teenager dealing with a boyfriend and an overprotective mother. However, her discovery and her actions after that give readers insight into her complex traits. Lonnie has had a difficult life and has secrets of her own. What roles will they play in this mystery?
The characterization is well-done. Readers get insight into the characters and their secrets as the story progresses. Their actions, reactions, feelings, and thoughts provide clues to their personality traits that helped me understand their larger roles in the story.
The premise for this novel is excellent and the mystery is riveting. However, there are a few slow spots along the way. The setting and atmosphere are terrific. This reader felt transported to Alaska and could easily feel the cold and see the blizzard. Themes include death and grief, isolation and claustrophobia, domestic violence, secrets and lies, and much more. The author says the inspiration for the town comes from Whittier, Alaska. It’s accessible only by boat or a one-way, one lane tunnel. Additionally, most of the residents live in the same building.
Overall, this story is gripping, thought-provoking, and emotional, with great world-building. This is the first book in a mystery series. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and seeing where she takes the characters next. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
Berkley Publishing Group and Iris Yamashita 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 January 10, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------------------------- My 3.79 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming in early November....more
Author Annelise Ryan has infused her latest book, A Death in Door County, with unique characters, danger, and suspense. This cozy mystery with a tAuthor Annelise Ryan has infused her latest book, A Death in Door County, with unique characters, danger, and suspense. This cozy mystery with a twist features Odds and Ends bookstore owner and cryptozoologist Morgan Carter and is set in Door County, Wisconsin. This is the first book in the Monster Hunter Mystery series.
When human and animal bodies are found onshore over the course of a few months with unusual bite marks, Washington Island police chief Jon Flanders turns to Morgan for help. While Morgan is a skeptic, the thrill of hunting cryptids (creatures whose existence is rumored, but never proven real) has her accepting the job. She and her dog, Newt, along with Jon, her employees Rita and Devon, and a variety of others embark on a journey to determine who or what the killer is. Morgan has unusual tastes in items for her shop. It’s not just a mystery bookstore, but contains odd and obscure items too. She has degrees in biology and zoology, with minors in religion and mysticism and loves exploring the plausible existability of mythical creatures. Both she and Jon are likeable characters, but both have some secrets. Morgan also has trust issues that affect new relationships. Both care about others and want to give back to those in need.
This book has a solid plot with some twists and turns, an unusual mystery to solve, and a unique sleuth working with the police. When you add in the search for a potential lake creature from legends and myths, great atmosphere and world-building, lots of suspense, and a bit of romance, you have a winner. The geographical details of the setting added to the atmosphere of the story. My one quibble is that the pace occasionally slowed down.
This novel is creative and exciting, and it will keep readers guessing. High stakes and an all-too-real situation kept me engaged throughout the story. The people in the story came to life and Lake Michigan almost became another character. Themes include friendship, loyalty, trust, betrayal, attraction, greed, domestic abuse, death, grief, helping others, and much more. The author’s note at the end of the book tells how her novel plays with factual history.
Overall, this intriguing mystery has great characters and danger, as well as intense moments and action that kept me turning the pages. Those who enjoy cozy mysteries with unique characters and a subplot of a budding romance will likely enjoy this book, as well as those that enjoy the unusual. This is an excellent start to the series.
Berkley Publishing Group and Annelise Ryan 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 September 13, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
-------------------------- My 4.02 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming during the week prior to publication (per publisher guidelines)....more
Kat Martin returns with the third book in the Blood Ties: The Logans romantic suspense series. This tense high stakes and perilous thriller features fKat Martin returns with the third book in the Blood Ties: The Logans romantic suspense series. This tense high stakes and perilous thriller features former Green Beret Edge Logan and ex-military Skye Delaney. Both work for the same security firm in Denver, Colorado as private investigators. Edge was forced to resign from the military and has a new life mainly providing security for high profile clients. Skye left the military after an improvised explosive device hit her vehicle and she was badly injured. While attracted to each other, neither has been willing to act on it. They don’t want to risk their friendship.
When Edge overhears Skye talking with her stepmother, he offers to provide back-up. Skye’s half-sister Callie hasn’t been heard from in a couple of months. She had joined a commune-like organization that is remote, fenced, and has guards. How can they access the compound and talk with Callie? Is she there willingly or is there something sinister happening? How will this affect Edge, Skye, and their personal and professional relationships?
While Edge and Skye are both strong, brave, and independent, they both have backstories that affect their relationships. They’re relatable, but flawed. Edge’s anger at his resignation from the military and Skye’s insecurities around her disfigurement affect each of them differently. Can they overcome them? They’re bold and intense protagonists who transform during the course of the storyline.
The story captivated me from the first page to the last. The deeply involved and multi-layered plot has some unpredictable moments that add suspense and danger. The world-building is excellent even as the locations change from Colorado to other states. The writing is fluid and flows well in this unsettling thriller that occasionally makes your blood run cold. It kept delivering exciting outcomes through the characters as I frantically turned the pages. This action-packed novel features deception, deaths, jealousy, greed, romance, family, friends, trust, corruption, and power over others. It also depicts the devastating actions certain organizations take and the effects they can have on the victims.
Overall, this action-packed romantic suspense has great characterization, a little spice, and plenty of action. Those who enjoy romantic suspense novels will likely enjoy this book. This is the eleventh book I have read by this author across multiple series. This one has the right mix of romance, tension and a thrilling storyline.
Kensington Books and Kat Martin 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 29, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------------- My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review will be coming soon....more
Rules of Engagement has risk, danger, and suspense to grab readers in this romantic suspense novel written by Stacey Abrams using her pen name of Rules of Engagement has risk, danger, and suspense to grab readers in this romantic suspense novel written by Stacey Abrams using her pen name of Selena Montgomery. When she adds trust, forgiveness, and romance, the novel is elevated to an intriguing story that keeps one turning the pages.
Dr. Raleigh Foster is an operative for a top-secret intelligence organization. When she’s asked to infiltrate Scimitar, a group that has stolen environmental technology that can be converted to a weapon, she is quickly on board. For this assignment, she needs a partner, Adam Grayson, to pose as her lover. He used to work for the same organization, but left after a botched mission.
Raleigh’s character is well developed. While she can come across as vulnerable as times, she is also brave, intelligent, and capable. However, she can be perceived as cold. Adam has a strong core of honor, loyalty, and integrity, but can find it hard to trust and forgive. Their attitudes and outlooks change and grow as they respond to events as the story unfolds. The dynamic between the two changes as well. Should rules always be followed or are they guidelines to be interpreted as a mission unfolds?
An impactful and memorable opening scene will immediately pull most readers into the book. However, it takes a while to see how this prologue fits into the story. Several needed flashback scenes adversely affected the overall flow. Nevertheless, with exciting scenes as well as plot twists and turns, the story gradually builds momentum to an action-packed mission end. The final chapter takes place four months later and wraps up the loose ends. However, it felt tacked on rather than a smooth continuation of the story. Additionally, I wanted a little more world-building of the fictional island of Jafir in the Mediterranean Sea to satisfy me.
This novel is creative and complex, and it will keep readers guessing. High stakes and an all-too-real situation kept me engaged throughout the story. The people in the story came to life and the pacing is brisk once the mission is underway. Themes include friendship, loyalty, betrayal, attraction, trust, deception, lies, subterfuge, power, and much more.
Overall, this intriguing thriller with romance and suspense has intense moments and action that kept me turning the pages. The story kept this reader on an emotional rollercoaster. Those who enjoy romantic suspense or thrillers with some romance may want to check out this series. I’m looking forward to reading the author’s next romantic suspense novel.
Berkley Publishing Group and Selena Montgomery 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 September 6, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine....more
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