The Deceiving Look by Victor Methos is well-plotted, twisty, and filled with characters that felt real and emotionally rich. This crime and legal The Deceiving Look by Victor Methos is well-plotted, twisty, and filled with characters that felt real and emotionally rich. This crime and legal thriller is the third novel in the Shepard and Gray series and features Solomon Shepard and Billie Gray. In this novel, Billie asks Solomon for help investigating the death of a local criminal defense attorney who is the former mayor of Tooele, Utah. The death looks like murder to Billie, but is it?
Solomon is on indefinite leave from the county attorney’s office after being attacked in a courtroom. He has isolated himself from others and suffers from anxiety, but he can’t say no to Billie. Billie is the local sheriff. She’s efficient, charismatic, confident, and gets things done. However, not all deputies and detectives view her as a strong leader.
The backstories of the two main characters as well as a couple of others give readers additional insight into their behaviors and actions. Even though it is the first book in the series that I have read, there was enough background for it to work as a fantastic standalone read. However, I believe I would have enjoyed it even more if I had already read the first two books.
This novel is impeccably written with engaging characters and a deeply involved plot. While the story is very character driven, the author does a great job of building momentum and suspense until it culminates in a disconcerting conclusion. This unsettling thriller has some graphic scenes and some twists that keep you hooked. Trying to understand the fallout from events kept me turning the pages rapidly. Relationships with colleagues, friends, family, and others help drive the narrative.
The author did a great job of balancing the shocking scenes in the novel against the suspense and mystery aspects. Gripping scenes and a well-crafted and riveting plot hooked me from the very beginning. The dynamic plot came alive with the well-defined characters and the significant amount of conflict. Hints and clues are dropped, but it took me a long while to guess who the antagonist was. What a shock! There are also a few sub-plots that add layers to the story. Themes include relationships, mental health, power, death, and much more.
Overall, this tense, suspenseful, and tragic novel gripped me from the beginning. The author brings strong characters, a great plot, and fascinating relationships to the novel. I can’t wait to read what the author writes next.
Thomas & Mercer and Victor Methos provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 9, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ----------------------------------------- My 4.02 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Northwoods by Amy Pease combines a crime thriller with a police procedural and a story of the personal struggles of the main character Eli North. Northwoods by Amy Pease combines a crime thriller with a police procedural and a story of the personal struggles of the main character Eli North. This gripping and suspenseful novel pulls at the heart strings as it takes readers to the events occurring in Shaky Lake, Wisconsin. Eli is working as a deputy, but the only reason he has the job is that his mother is the sheriff. He is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after a deployment to Afghanistan. Now his drinking is out of control and his marriage and career are on the line. When Eli finds the body of a teenage boy and then a teenage girl is reported missing, Eli and rest of the small sheriff’s department along with FBI Agent Alyssa Mason must unravel the multiple mysteries.
Eli uses alcohol to cope with memories resulting in broken promises and lateness. However, he also has the need to discover the truth, is kind, and loves his son and wife. His relationships with them, his mother, and others in the town made Eli more relatable. Most of the characters have significant depth that is shown through their actions and dialogue.
This novel has a complex and multi-layered plot that is intriguing and pulls readers into the story quickly. Most of the action is at the end of novel, but it didn’t feel slow. This may be because I was emotionally engaged in the various character struggles that are revealed, which felt authentic and held my interest.
Gripping scenes and an emotional story intermix with contemporary issues. Themes include relationships, family, friendship, substance abuse, mental health, power, greed, ethics, and much more. The realistic issues made this story somewhat disturbing, but a feeling of hopefulness and the encouragement and support of some of the characters helped to offset this.
Overall, this tense, suspenseful, and tragic novel gripped me from the beginning. It’s more character-driven than action-driven, but kept me ensnared in the events making it hard to put the book down. The ending wraps up the main mysteries, but there are threads that could be used for a sequel. I would love to see more books featuring Eli.
The author brings strong characters, a great plot, fascinating relationships, and excellent pacing to the novel. Written for those who love crime novels and police procedurals, Northwoods is a thought-provoking debut book. I can’t wait to read what the author writes next.
Atria Books, Atria/Emily Bestler Books and Amy Pease provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 9, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------- My 3.95 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
If you enjoy crime thrillers with humor, a twisty plot, and a protagonist who is a thief and a master of disguise, then look no further than Three-If you enjoy crime thrillers with humor, a twisty plot, and a protagonist who is a thief and a master of disguise, then look no further than Three-Edged Sword by Jeff Lindsay. This is the third book in the Riley Wolfe series. Riley uses his abilities to rob the richest. However, this time a rogue government agent has abducted the only two people Riley loves. If he doesn’t do what is requested, then there will be severe consequences. He must infiltrate a missile silo, enter a vault, and steal a flash drive within a limited amount of time.
The characterization is excellent. Riley lacks the qualities of many conventional heroes and is flawed. While his morals aren’t the typical ones we would associate with a protagonist, he is courageous, adept at disguise, and truly cares for the two people being held hostage. He doesn’t trust others easily, typically works alone, and needs risk in his life. But is this task the one that breaks him? Several of the secondary characters gained depth in this book as secrets are revealed and events occur. Readers of the series will have met some of the secondary characters, but there’s also a few new ones to keep the story fresh and interesting.
An exciting plot, some over-the-top action scenes, excellent character development, and descriptive settings made this an enjoyable read. The settings ranged from Botswana to South Africa to Lithuania to Germany to various locations in the United States with the majority set on an island in Lithuania. The world-building was excellent making it easy to visualize everywhere Riley went. While most of the story is from Riley’s point of view, there are chapters from the points of view of other characters. This did slow the pacing at times, but kept readers up-to-date on what was happening to other characters.
The author’s writing style hooked me quickly and drew me into this exciting and suspenseful tale. The conflict and unexpected twists kept me turning the pages. There is an unsettling and disturbing scene near the end. Several themes run through the story including theft, patriotism, love, friendship, death, threats, and how people are treated and how that can affect their actions.
Overall, this is a fast-paced and entertaining thriller with some humor to break the suspense occasionally. This series is best read in order as there is a small spoiler in this one for previous books in the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was December 06, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------- My 3.73 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Night Shift by Robin Cook is the thirteenth book in the Jack Stapleton and Laurie Montgomery medical thriller series. Jack is a medical examiner aNight Shift by Robin Cook is the thirteenth book in the Jack Stapleton and Laurie Montgomery medical thriller series. Jack is a medical examiner and Laurie is the newly appointed chief medical examiner in New York City. While this book is said to be a thriller, for most of the novel it is a mystery and the investigation of a death of a family friend. When Dr. Sue Passero dies in the hospital parking garage, an autopsy is required and Jack takes the case. Unable to determine a cause of death, he starts an investigation while waiting on lab results.
Cook’s description of Jack and several other characters came through extremely well. Jack is thorough, efficient, has a sarcastic sense of humor, and tends to function by pure reflex without thinking about the consequences. Laurie plays a much smaller role in this tale and mainly shows up in the last 25 percent of the book. Both Jack and Laurie are having trouble balancing work and family commitments. Beyond this, readers get a sense that Laurie is controlling, impatient, and feeling the stresses and strains of her new job.
This story focuses more on the investigation side of deaths versus action until the last 20 percent or so of the book. I wanted the suspense level to be higher than it was in the early part of the book. Additionally, this book takes place during the COVID pandemic and certain topics such as vaccines and masks were somewhat repetitive. However, these discussions were extremely common during the pandemic making it feel realistic.
After a slow start, the ending brings the suspense, danger, and foreboding that one expects from a medical crime thriller. Additionally, it looks at the levels of hospital staffing and the effects of a lost colleague on other staff members. The plot has plenty of twists and turns, but is unbelievable at times. My main quibble is that the antagonist was too easy to identify and it’s confirmed about half-way through the book. Despite this, I enjoyed the investigation part of the story which kept me intrigued.
Overall, this novel was well-written, thought-provoking, entertaining, and kept my interest. The tension, stakes, and action build up to an exciting ending that is over-the-top. The author’s ability to combine strong characters and complex plots kept me turning the pages.
I recommend this book to those that enjoy medical mysteries. This is the fourth book I’ve read by this author, but the second in this series. It worked fine as a standalone novel for me. I’m looking forward to reading the next one as well as previous books in the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was December 06, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------------ My 3.84 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
That Others May Live by Jen J. Danna writing as Sara Driscoll is the fascinating, suspenseful, and heartbreaking eighth book in the FBI K-9 crime That Others May Live by Jen J. Danna writing as Sara Driscoll is the fascinating, suspenseful, and heartbreaking eighth book in the FBI K-9 crime thriller series. The book features Meg Jennings and her Labrador K-9 partner Hawk. They’re civilian employees of the FBI’s Human Scent Response Team.
Meg is preparing for another work day when she gets word of a calamitous scene in downtown Washington, D.C. near the White House. Part of a twelve-story high-end condominium building has collapsed, and the rest of the structure could soon follow. Her betrothed, Todd, is already at work. He’s a firefighter and paramedic and is likely already on site. If anyone is still alive within the rubble, she and Hawk along with the other K-9 teams must find them. Minutes count. But is this a random tragedy or is there a bigger threat?
Meg is compassionate, friendly, wants to help others, and has a keen sense of justice. She also has a fear of heights that she must overcome on some sites. Todd is smart, strong, capable, and pragmatic. While he may feel fear at times, he does the job despite it, and even uses it to keep himself sharp. There’s an array of characters from prior books that help with continuity and a sense of visiting friends. Key among these are her fellow K-9 team members and McCord, an investigative reporter who is Meg’s sister’s boyfriend.
Dynamic characters, unparalleled devastation, and great descriptions drew me in to this heartbreaking and intense story. It has a deeply involved and multi-layered plot and an incredible setting and takes place over the course of the week before Christmas. I was transported to the dangerous scene and felt as if I was living the events alongside the characters. This is an intense novel and reminds readers of the situations these teams and first responders encounter frequently. Their emotional toil is also highlighted as well as how several of them work through it.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly. The prose is well-written and engaging. There are twists and turns and surprises along the way in an intricate plot that kept me anxious. The atmosphere is tense and serious throughout most of the novel and it has more technical details than usual given the nature of this disaster. The author brings strong characters, great plots, wonderful relationships, and excellent pacing to the series. I thought it was an interesting that the author gave a definition of an aspect of high-rise construction at the beginning of each chapter.
Overall, this tense, engaging, and tragic thriller gripped me from the beginning. It was difficult to put down. I’m a fan of the series and looking forward to reading the next book.
Kensington Books and Sara Driscoll provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 28, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------- My 4.6 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Paige Shelton brings atmosphere, mystery, and danger to Lost Hours, the fifth book in the Alaska Wild series set in fictional Benedict, Alaska. ThPaige Shelton brings atmosphere, mystery, and danger to Lost Hours, the fifth 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 recovering in Alaska following her abduction a year ago. Until recently, only a few locals knew Beth’s story including police chief Gril Samuels and his deputy Donner. She now feels at home in Alaska, even as tourists return to the area for the summer. When she and Tex, Beth’s boyfriend and local search and rescue expert, decide to take a tour boat to view the glaciers, the boat is diverted to an island to rescue a woman covered in blood and waving for help. She claims she was kidnapped from her home in Juneau and that a bear killed her captor.
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 traumatic past, but she still finds it hard to trust people. However, readers will see a dynamic character change in attitude and outlook as she responds to events. She is curious, somewhat nosy, and has become an amateur sleuth. Several of the secondary characters gained depth in this book as secrets are revealed. This is especially true of Tex as well as Viola, the owner of the house where Beth rents a room. There are numerous characters in this story, but many of them were introduced in the earlier books so it felt like I was catching up with old friends.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly, and the story builds momentum that leads 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. The atmosphere is tense and serious throughout the novel. From the quirky and eccentric residents to the descriptions of Alaska to the various mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The author does a great job of portraying the lack of amenities as well as the friendships, pace of life, the wonders, and the dangers of living in and around Benedict. I could easily visualize the setting and felt transported to Alaska. I also enjoy the way she works with the local police. My biggest quibble is that the ending was more telling than showing. While the mysteries in this story were nicely wrapped up, the set-up for the next book also occurs leaving this reader anxiously awaiting book six in the series. Several themes run through the tale including death, trust, found family as well as biological family, disappearances, secrets, lies, family dynamics, vengeance, and much more.
Overall, this enjoyable mystery was engaging, suspenseful, atmospheric, and full of adventure. Darker than many cozy mysteries, the well-developed ideas with good pacing from scene to scene kept me turning the pages. If you enjoy well-written amateur sleuth mysteries, then I recommend you check out this series. The books are best read in order. I’m looking forward to book six.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and Paige Shelton provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for December 05, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------- My 4.19 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
If you enjoy some horror with your mystery and thrills, then Good Girls Don’t Die by Christina Henry may be the next book you will want to read. TIf you enjoy some horror with your mystery and thrills, then Good Girls Don’t Die by Christina Henry may be the next book you will want to read. Three women awaken to circumstances that don’t seem right. Celia wakes up in a house with a husband and child that don’t feel like hers. She can’t remember her “real” life, but the house isn’t decorated to her tastes and there are no books in the home. She knows she reads every day. Allie and her friends Cam and Madison planned a beach getaway for Allie’s twenty-first birthday. However, when they come to pick her up, their boyfriends Brad and Steve are with them. Brad takes them to a remote cabin in the woods. Allie is sure something isn’t right, but what is wrong? Maggie wants to be home with her daughter, but she wakes up in a dangerous situation that she must get out of to ensure her daughter is safe.
The story follows each woman through a significant part of their ordeal. Part four brings the story to its conclusion. I found the least character depth to be that of Celia. However, that is likely due to her confused memories. Everything she thinks she remembers about herself doesn’t fit with the life she’s living. Allie is smart, funny, and reliable. However, she tends to go along with others’ plans since she is scared to make herself vulnerable. She shows the most character growth as her story unfolds. Maggie is determined to save her daughter so she comes across as strong and a leader, from the beginning despite her fears. In part four, readers find out how each character understands the others as well as their connections. This added depth to the characters.
The online chats at the beginning of each chapter piqued my interest and the first chapter pulled me into the story. The world-building was fantastic in all four parts of the story. With a combination of mystery and horror, the book kept me on the edge of my seat. Who will survive and what is happening in each scenario? There are also some unpredictable moments and plot twists in this gripping storyline. My one quibble is that I wanted more closure on Celia’s story.
Overall, I am glad I read this novel, which was suspenseful, gritty, heartbreaking, and atmospheric with plenty of chills. This is my first novel by this author, but I am looking forward to reading others.
Berkley Publishing Group and Christina Henry provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for November 14, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------------ My 3.63 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Blood Sisters by Vanessa Lillie is a compelling and heartbreaking mystery featuring Syd Walker, a Cherokee archeologist for the Bureau of Indian ABlood Sisters by Vanessa Lillie is a compelling and heartbreaking mystery featuring Syd Walker, a Cherokee archeologist for the Bureau of Indian Affairs. While this is a fictional story, it deals with a real-life issue. Across the United States and Canada there is an extremely high rate of missing or murdered indigenous women and girls.
Syd lives and works in Rhode Island, but when a skull is found near her home town of Picher, Oklahoma, she is assigned to help on the case. Then she learns that her sister Emma Lou, who still lives in Oklahoma, has disappeared. Their parents didn’t tell Syd until she showed up at their home. Syd and Emma Lou survived a frightening night of violence when they were young and it still haunts Syd, who stays in Oklahoma to find her sister. However, not everyone is happy that Syd is back in town as she digs for information and searches for Emma Lou.
Syd is dedicated to her job, but tends to go it alone rather than asking for help and taking back-up. She’s also facing a personal relationship crisis that has her upset and confused. She’s determined and tenacious, but sometimes lets preconceived ideas override what others tell her. Her purposefulness towards getting answers and solving the mysteries never wavered.
This well-written and well-researched novel transported me to Oklahoma in 2008. Descriptions allowed me to easily visualize the conditions without slowing the pace. I was immediately pulled into the story and stayed engaged throughout. It was fast-paced with a smooth flow. With plenty of action, this novel will appeal to many crime thriller fans too. The plot is twisty and multi-layered with several surprises along the way. My one quibble is that I wanted more closure on Syd’s relationship with her wife Mal. Themes include violence against women and girls, mineral wealth being stripped from the land and the resulting health effects, poverty, drug addiction, and much more.
Overall, I am glad I read this novel, which was suspenseful, gritty, touching, heartbreaking, and atmospheric. While fictional, it is based on real events that occurred in and near Picher. The author also weaves in information about American history and politics as it relates to Native Americans. This is my first novel by this author, but I am looking forward to reading her next book. My understanding is that this is the first book in a series. The author’s note at the end of the book was very informative.
Berkley Publishing Group and Vanessa Lillie provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for October 31, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------- My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
What might have happened if Edward VIII had not abdicated the throne in 1936? In this alternative history a locked-room type mystery occurs when King What might have happened if Edward VIII had not abdicated the throne in 1936? In this alternative history a locked-room type mystery occurs when King Eric reigns in the United Kingdom. The royal family has gathered at Balmoral Castle in Scotland for a traditional Christmas. However, King Eric has given nearly all of the staff Christmas Day off. The only ones remaining are head chef Jonathan “Jon” Alleyne and the head of security, Tony Speck.
A blizzard isolates the castle as Jon works tirelessly to provide a delicious meal for the family. During the preparations, King Eric meets individually with each member of the royal family. As he prepares to make a toast and an announcement after dinner, he dies. Jon believes he was poisoned and is placed in the role of an amateur sleuth. He feels out of his depth, but wants to do what is right by his friend of 33 years. Why would one of the king’s own family members kill him?
There is a helpful character list at the beginning of the novel followed by a short chapter from the unknown killer’s point of view. Much of the story is from Jon’s point of view and starts 10 hours earlier when Jon takes the king’s breakfast to him on Christmas morning. The characters had depth and Jonathan’s character went through a transformation as he responded to events. While floundering, overwhelmed by the task, and unsure of himself, he steps up and experiences growth during his investigation.
The descriptive narrative transported me to Scotland where intrigue and secrets abound in this storyline. There are suspenseful moments as well as moments that seemed to drag. The pacing is uneven; especially in the first two-thirds of the novel. Despite this, the plot is twisty and kept me interested and there are multiple mysteries to be solved as the story unfolds. However, it is never explained how King Eric is descended from King Edward VIII and I kept thinking about this question throughout the book. The conclusion hints at what might happen to the characters, but is very open-ended. I wanted a more definitive conclusion to the book. One of the most interesting aspects was the information around lines of succession as imagined in this alternative history timeline. It was certainly thought-provoking.
Overall, this was an entertaining novel. Other themes explored in the novel were relationships with and between servants, trust, honesty, deception, power, greed, love, family, lies, secrets, and suspicion.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was October 25, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. -------------------------------------- My 3.03 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
Hunting Time by Jeffery Deaver brings plenty of suspense and action to the fourth book in the Colter Shaw crime thriller series. Allison Parker isHunting Time by Jeffery Deaver brings plenty of suspense and action to the fourth book in the Colter Shaw crime thriller series. Allison Parker is on the run with her teenage daughter, Hannah. Shaw has been hired by Allison’s boss, Marty Harmon, to find and protect her. Allison is being pursued by her ex-husband, Jon Merritt, who recently was released from prison. However, he’s not the only one pursuing Allison and Hannah. There are also two thugs who are hitmen and experienced at making bodies disappear forever on her trail. Colter’s efforts are helped by Sonja Nilsson, Harmon’s head of security. The setting starts in the fictional town of Ferrington, somewhere in the Midwest south of Chicago.
Shaw found the law profession stimulating, but a poor fit for his restlessness. Instead, he now runs a rewards business, where he usually only accepts payment if he delivers what is requested such as finding a missing person. However, he does occasionally take a for-hire job. Allison is self-reliant, tough, blunt, perceptive, and smart. Allison is a brilliant engineer, creative, systematic, efficient, and goal-oriented. Hannah came across as a typical teenager, somewhat moody and argumentative, but lacked adequate communication from Allison to fully understand the dire situation they were in.
The plot has plenty of twists and turns, but is unbelievable at times. However, they kept my interest despite Shaw making some mistakes that I would not have expected him to make. Although the book never specifies which state the story is set in, the novel has great world-building, whether it is the old industrial town of Ferrington or the lake and woods countryside north of it. The tension, stakes, and action build up to an exciting ending that is over-the-top and a shock, but somewhat satisfying. His ability to combine strong characters and complex plots with excellent pacing kept me fully engaged. Themes include domestic violence, family, work family, water pollution, lack of funding for police, corruption, murder, friendship, attempted murder, a possible romance, and much more. This novel also does a nice job of setting up the next book in the series.
Overall, this was well-written, captivating, engaging, and thought-provoking. I enjoyed unraveling the mysteries. I was hooked immediately in the first chapter and the pages kept turning. I recommend this book to those that enjoy crime thrillers. This is the fourth book I’ve read by this author, but the first in this series. I’m looking forward to reading the next one as well as the previous books in the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was November 22, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. -------------------------------------- My 4.3 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
James J. Butcher returns with the second novel in his urban fantasy series set in and around Boston, Massachusetts featuring Grimshaw Griswald GrimsbyJames J. Butcher returns with the second novel in his urban fantasy series set in and around Boston, Massachusetts featuring Grimshaw Griswald Grimsby. The world is divided into those without any magical or paranormal capabilities and those that have them and there is access to another dimension called Elsewhere. Grimsby is the newest Auditor in the magical Department. Auditors are the magical elite who are government-sanctioned witches with power and prestige. They enforce the laws about magic, but Grimsby learns not all such tasks are exciting. For six months, he’s handled mundane magical troubles. Fed up with being overlooked for a better case, he takes a case file intended for a friend, Auditor Rayne Bathory.
His partner, Huntsman Leslie Mayflower, has not been showing up for work for a month, but when he sees the appropriated case file, he recognizes the ritual in the case photos as being like one of his cases from 20 years ago. Working together, can they stop the ritual from being completed? Eighteen-inch tall Wudge has also been living with Grimsby for the last six months and is still searching for the mysterious door that had been promised to him in book one of the series.
The dynamic between Grimsby and Mayflower as well as between Grimsby and Wudge was fun to experience has they got to know one another better and worked together. Grimsby is bothered by hypocrisy, dislikes arguing, and he is lonely, loyal, hardworking, and kind. Mayflower has a temper and he’s grouchy, bitter, and dangerous. Wudge provides comic relief and takes conversations very literally. Rayne tends to be cold, calm, professional, stressed, lonely, and feels betrayed. These are just four of the individuals in this novel filled with diverse and well-developed characters.
The plot is layered and has plenty of twists and turns combined with suspense, tension, and action. It is more polished and the pacing is better than book one of the series. There’s a significant surprise in this story line. Once again, it was hard to put the book down because there was always something new happening that piqued my interest. What an ending! It was not what I expected, but it certainly sets the situation up for a fantastic book three. The fantasy part of the world-building was terrific. The story contains elements of fantasy and suspense with a mystery that kept me turning the pages. Additional themes include dealing with failure, not giving up, friendship, trust, betrayal, theft, power, and doing what’s right, as well as human struggles and growth.
Overall, this novel was engaging and entertaining with a vivid fantasy environment created to immerse readers in this new urban world. This series should be read in order. I am looking forward to seeing what happens next in the series.
Berkley Publishing Group - Ace and James J. Butcher provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for October 10, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------- My 4.12 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
A powerful and shocking start to The Last Guardian by Simon Gervais gets readers immediate attention. Action, suspense, intrigue, and danger keep thisA powerful and shocking start to The Last Guardian by Simon Gervais gets readers immediate attention. Action, suspense, intrigue, and danger keep this novel moving at fast pace. President Alexander Hammond has set fighting the drug epidemic in the United States as a priority and the man he trusts to lead the fight is Clayton White. Assassinations, secret identities, and betrayals are only the beginning.
Clayton is a former air force combat rescue officer and former Secret Service agent who is now a special assistant to the president for the Office of Special Projects. He’s courageous, loyal, treats others fairly, and he’s a great shot. His biggest flaw seems to be getting irritated quickly when forced to wait. He’s a man of action. His character has seen growth during the series. The secondary characters have differing levels of depth, but it was sufficient for their roles.
The novel has aspects of espionage and political thrillers and has diverse settings that include southern California, Washington D. C., Florida, U.S. Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, Macau, Monaco, and Switzerland. While most of the story is from Clayton’s point of view, it switches to other characters as well. The plot is multi-layered and complex with a narrative that is suspenseful and action-filled throughout. The author’s military and federal experiences are reflected in the well-crafted action scenes that felt genuine.
There is a strong sense of good versus evil throughout the novel. My biggest quibble is that most of the settings could have been almost anywhere. I only occasionally get a strong sense of place. Despite this, the story kept me engaged from the first chapter to its conclusion. The story line is gripping and keeps your attention throughout the novel. The author does a great job of bringing together the various aspects of the story into a cohesive tale. Geopolitical conflicts that help enable drug, human, and weapons trafficking are highlighted in this book. The mixture of international politics and domestic problems works well in this novel. There are ever-present threats looming that kept me rapidly turning the pages. Readers should be aware that there are some violent scenes depicted.
Overall, this book was suspenseful, riveting, fast-paced, and entertaining. If you enjoy political and action thrillers with a strong lead character, then this may be the series for you. The combination of an entertaining story line and lots of action makes this an intoxicating novel. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. These novels are hard to put down.
Thomas & Mercer and Simon Gervais provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for October 10, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------- My 4.19 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Crafts, desserts, and a death shake the small town of Hideaway, California in Hanging by a Thread by Dorothy Howell. Abbey Chandler has recently mCrafts, desserts, and a death shake the small town of Hideaway, California in Hanging by a Thread by Dorothy Howell. Abbey Chandler has recently moved to the community and has set up a small sewing studio. She’s hoping to build a clientele for her business. Many of the shops are barely surviving and are depending on an upcoming women’s conference to help them. That includes Abbey’s Aunt Sarah’s bakery. However, when a partner in a competing shop is killed during its construction, Sarah becomes a suspect. Abbey is determined to find the culprit and clear her aunt’s reputation.
This novel has good characterization. Abbey takes on too many tasks. She can’t seem to say no to anyone and seemed somewhat scattered as she moved from one thing to another. This didn’t quite fit with my expectations of a character who had worked for a marketing firm in Los Angeles. Anna, the thrift shop owner, is known to gossip and jump to conclusions. However, she also donates pillowcases to be turned into dresses for charity. Other shop owners have varying degrees of depth. Aunt Sarah is mainly worried about her business and how she can make it more profitable. She’s also a loving aunt who Abbey spent her childhood summers with and who welcomed Abbey into her home when she moved to Hideaway Cove.
This is a fun cozy featuring many unique and interesting characters. However, I thought Aunt Sarah would play a larger role in the first half of the book. The stimulating plot kept me turning the pages after a somewhat slow start. Additionally, there are a few things that became repetitive such as why the streets have bird names and the offers to pay for the thrift store pillowcases. Other than that, the prose is well-written. Additionally, the world-building was well-done. I could easily visualize the shops. There’s a subplot within the storyline as well that deals with stolen goods. How can Abbey solve it, find the killer, and do all the other things she was volunteered for?
There is humor sprinkled throughout the novel as well as one major action scene. Woven through it are themes of caring for and helping others, charity work, family, gossip, death, friendship, a budding romance, and giving up one’s dreams due to family expectations. I see several threads from the story that could and likely will show up in future books.
Overall, this novel is entertaining and was a pleasurable reading experience. Those who enjoy cozy mysteries featuring crafts and desserts will likely enjoy this book. I’m looking forward to the next one in the series.
Kensington Books, Kensington Cozies and Dorothy Howell provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for September 26, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. -------------------------------------- My 3.26 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
A legend, a protector of her tribe, and a 2000-year-old warrior are combined with suspense, action, and romance in Dark Memory by Christine FeehanA legend, a protector of her tribe, and a 2000-year-old warrior are combined with suspense, action, and romance in Dark Memory by Christine Feehan. This is the thirty-seventh book in the Carpathian Dark paranormal romantic suspense series. Safia Meziane has trained to protect her tribe and family since birth. Evil is coming to Dellys, Algeria soon. While afraid she won’t be able to protect those she loves, she always thought she would face evil alone. However, her family reveals that isn’t so. She has been promised to a warrior. He’s an outsider and a Carpathian. Petru Cioban is over 2000 years old and has spent that time without the presence of his destined lifemate. Now he arrives only to find her ready to battle vampires and other evil beings.
While Safia and Petru are physically attracted to each other, their cultures are very different. This means they must work through their expectations and needs. Safia has been trained to be a warrior and defender of her people. She has abilities other humans don’t. She’s courageous, giving, compassionate, has fast reflexes, loves to bargain, and is used to speaking her mind. Petru is dangerous, a man of honor, powerful, intimidating, intelligent, an experienced fighter, and doesn’t believe in arguing. The secondary characters provided balance, opportunities for humor, support, and conflict and were well-developed.
While the novel is set in contemporary times, Safia’s family has passed down legends from generation to generation and have trained each to fight the coming evil. The narrative was descriptive giving readers a good feel for the Meziane farm as well as the nearby town of Dellys. The plot was somewhat straightforward with high stakes and lots of risk. The significant amount of danger and action kept me fully engaged and made this a true page turner for me. This is a riveting story with protagonists that I liked and cheered on as their journey progressed and became ever more dangerous. The prose is well-written and engaging. Woven through the novel are threads of caring for others, family, betrayal, treatment and expectations of women, leadership, love, respect, trust, friendship, and the battle between good and evil. There are a couple of spicy scenes and a lot of violence in the story.
Overall, this novel is entertaining, suspenseful, full of danger, and has great characterization. If you enjoy thrilling paranormal romantic suspense novels, then I recommend you check out this series. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Berkley Publishing Group and Christine Feehan provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for October 03, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------- My 4.41 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Nine eerie and chilling horror short stories plus a poem keep readers turning the pages in Jonathan Maberry’s Long Past Midnight. The stories takeNine eerie and chilling horror short stories plus a poem keep readers turning the pages in Jonathan Maberry’s Long Past Midnight. The stories take place in or near Pine Deep, Pennsylvania. While most take place after the author’s Pine Deep horror trilogy, the first story takes place before the Trouble. All are descriptive without slowing down the story line and have great characterization.
In Property Condemned, nine-year-old Malcolm Crow and his friends Vall Guthrie, Terry Wolfe, and Gerry Stickler decide to explore the abandoned Croft house which is known to be haunted. Malcolm wants proof of the existence of ghosts. The house feels like a fifth character in this story. Whether it is due to the nervousness of the four children or the evil sensations from the house, readers may fell chills as they read this story.
Readers familiar with Maberry’s series will be happy to find Captain Joseph Edwin Ledger and two members of Echo team are featured in Material Witness. The story starts with post-mission statements and analyses and the discrepancies between Echo team’s after-action reports and interviews and verifiable facts. After this, it reverts to the mission itself. All of this takes place after the events in the Pine Deep trilogy. Those who love action thrillers with a supernatural twist will enjoy this story.
Long Way Home surprised me. It features Donny Castleberry and takes place ten years after the Trouble. I didn’t see this ending coming!
Three Guys Walk Into a Bar features private investigator Sam Hunter. I loved this character and would love to read a series featuring Sam. He’s an ex-cop, tough, and scary. However, he sleeps with a light on at night. He also has a surprising aspect to his character. In his latest case, he goes to Pine Deep. By now, Malcolm Crow is the Chief of Police and his adopted son, Mike Sweeney is a deputy. Joe Ledger is back for this story as well. This is another supernatural action thriller with plenty of suspense and danger. It’s also the longest of the stories. On Lonely Roads is the only poem is this book. It’s the only one that features Monk Addison, but was my least favorite.
Mister Pockets features the only homeless person in Pine Deep and a young boy, Lefty Harrigan. This one was a little predictable, but still had great characterization.
Whistlin’ Past the Graveyard amped up the atmosphere with much of it taking place in the cemetery in Pine Deep. It features Francesco Sponelli who maintains the cemetery and digs the graves.
A House in Need of Children features Sam Hunter again. This is another great story featuring a haunted house and is one of the sadder stories in the book.
The Trouble takes place after the Pine Deep Trilogy and features Malcolm and Mike as well as Val who is now married to Malcolm. This one is another action thriller story.
The final story, Ghost Creepin’ Blues, features 16-year-old Jinnifer who suffers from depression, panic attacks, and hallucinations. This one feels like the set-up for a novel.
Overall, this was a great collection of stories and one that kept me feeling the characters’ anxiety. While some are full of exciting scenes and plenty of action, others are more thought provoking. The world-building and characterization are terrific.
Kensington Books and Jonathan Maberry provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 22, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
--------------------------------------- My 4.43 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Breathtaking and electrifying are two of the words that come to mind as I think about Harm’s Way by John Gilstrap. This political thriller is the Breathtaking and electrifying are two of the words that come to mind as I think about Harm’s Way by John Gilstrap. This political thriller is the fifteenth book in the Jonathan Grave covert series. Twelve missionaries were abducted in a remote area of Venezuela and are being held for ransom. In a secret meeting, FBI Director Irene Rivers pleas with Jonathan Grave to mount a rescue mission with his team. While Jonathan, Boxers, and Gunslinger plan to infiltrate the enemy camp and rescue the hostages, Venice will be working from their company office as support. However, the mission changes as a world threat is revealed.
Grave loves his country. He’s great at making connections, planning, and adjusting as situations change. Political intrigue excites him. Readers can easily connect with him and root for the success of him and his team. Boxers, Gunslinger, and Venice do not show as much depth in this novel. However, I loved how the team connected to each other and their dialogue. Their chemistry added to my enjoyment of the novel. They have a strong sense of justice and a determination to succeed against overwhelming odds.
Gilstrap has a way of writing thrillers that immediately grab your attention. He’s an excellent storyteller who combines a creative plot with gripping scenes and plenty of action and suspense. The writing is fluid and has a few twists and turns. As danger became imminent, the suspense intensified. The unnerving and over-the-top conclusion will get readers’ hearts racing as they find out who survives. The final chapter wraps up some loose ends and hints that more adventures will be coming.
This high-octane novel was also very atmospheric. The author did a great job of painting the scenes and giving readers the ability to easily picture the scenes without slowing the pace. From the first chapter to the last, events come with a hectic and wild pace. There was a strong sense of urgency throughout the novel. While the novel switches points of view occasionally, it is mainly from that of Grave. Themes include abduction for ransom, corruption, influence peddling, betrayal, political maneuvering and intrigue, and more.
Overall, this briskly paced and explosive novel was tense, fast-paced, action-oriented, and scary to think about. While there are references to past missions, this novel can be read as a standalone. However, readers will be missing out on some background and character growth and changes over time. I recommend this to those who enjoy fantastic action novels.
Kensington Books, Pinnacle and John Gilstrap provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 22, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. --------------------------------------- My 4.41 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Diane Kelly brings plenty of mystery, atmosphere, and conflict to the third book in her Mountain Lodge cozy mystery series, Snow Place for Murder.Diane Kelly brings plenty of mystery, atmosphere, and conflict to the third book in her Mountain Lodge cozy mystery series, Snow Place for Murder. It features 50-year-old Misty Murphy who has recently signed her divorce papers and purchased a mountain lodge in the Blue Ridge Mountains in northwestern North Carolina. International resort developer Nigel Goodwin has reserved her lodge for several days. He plans to pitch a new resort to several wealthy investors. The resort will be built on land he has purchased locally. Rocky Crowder is the lodge’s handyman and he does freelance work as well.
However, several locals are against the proposed resort and several of the investors have secrets. Then a blizzard hits the area. Misty’s sons, JJ and Mitch, are home for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. When the boys find a funny looking rock while sledding at the lodge, chaos ensues.
The story is mainly told from Misty’s point of view, but there are a few chapters interspersed with thoughts from her cat, Baroness Blizzard, also known as Yeti. While Yeti’s chapters aren’t necessary, they provide some humor and I enjoyed them. Misty is independent, hardworking, resourceful, organized, listens to what is going on around her, inquisitive, and good with people. She is also supportive of others and has a natural curiosity. Rocky is reliable, hardworking, and fun. Nigel is charming, manipulative, clever, and cunning. The investor guests and other secondary characters are a mixed group of personalities with secrets to lend a sense of realism.
The setting was perfect for this novel and Ms. Kelly does a great job of transporting readers to the mountains of North Carolina. The winding roads, the fall color, the early blizzard, and even the southern foods were authentic. There are several plot twists along the way along with plenty of suspects. The dialogue and pacing were on target. The characters and humor enhance it with relatable characters like Misty and Rocky, some obnoxious ones, and a bit of everything else in between. I also liked the fact that Misty worked with the police rather than hiding her sleuthing activities. However, it seemed like the deputy shared more information with her than he should.
I was immediately drawn into Misty’s life and enjoyed the unraveling of the mystery and the development of friendships. The story captivated me from the beginning with a good plot, great world-building details, and characters that are emotionally rich. The author weaves another story involving family, friends, grief, murder, greed, wildlife protection, and holiday celebrations that keeps you entertained throughout the book. Relationships drive the narrative and keep it compelling.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, which was suspenseful, engaging, and atmospheric. In the books I have read by this author, I had a connection with the writing style that I found relatable, vivid, and irresistible. I can’t wait to find out what happens during the next book in the series. I recommend this to those that like cozy mysteries with a more mature main character.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Paperbacks and Diane Kelly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for October 24, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------------ My 4.3 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Suspense, danger, action, intense moments, and romance are combined to provide readers with a fabulous read in Beneath Dark Waters by Karen Rose. Suspense, danger, action, intense moments, and romance are combined to provide readers with a fabulous read in Beneath Dark Waters by Karen Rose. This is the second book in the New Orleans romantic suspense series that is also partly a police procedural and a private investigator crime novel. If you like contemporary romances with lots of suspense and danger, then this book is one to check out. Except for the epilogue, the book takes place over the course of five days.
Assistant District Attorney Kaj Cardozo has only lived in New Orleans for six months, but he is known in both New York and in his new home city for his fight against corruption. He’s also working a high-profile celebrity assault case that is getting publicity across the country. When his son Elijah becomes the target of a kidnapping attempt, Kaj hires Broussard Investigations to protect Elijah. Val Sorensen is the person assigned to be his bodyguard and the firm is hired to investigate the incident. The investigation reveals more than they bargained for, as drugs, corruption, and murder are discovered.
Kaj, Val, and Elijah are likeable characters. Kaj is kind, understanding, and determined to help his boss root out corruption in the area. However, he also fears for his son’s safety. Val is a Marine veteran, tenderhearted, capable, and thoughtful. However, she is also estranged from her sister Sylvie. Elijah is ten years old, smart for his age, and kindhearted. Kaj and Val seem to balance each other, but their attraction came on a little too fast. However, these strong protagonists with strong senses of determination were easy to get behind and hope that they succeed in their endeavors. Several characters from book one make an appearance in this one as well so readers can catch up on their lives as well. Some of the antagonists are known immediately while others are slowly revealed.
The prologue immediately grabbed my attention and the story continues with action, investigation by both the police and the private investigation firm, and plenty of twists and turns to keep me engaged. The thrilling storyline, balanced with the emotional aspects of the work, made this a winner for me. The book was descriptive without slowing the pace, which is fast. Readers will get an excellent sense of the bayou, but I wanted a little more sense of New Orleans itself.
This riveting crime thriller, police procedural, and romantic suspense novel keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The novel builds suspense in a way that pulls readers into the lives of the characters. The plot is full of chasing down leads and interviewing people as well as plenty of danger for those involved. I enjoyed how the author provided unpredictable moments and a little humor, which offset some gruesome spots in this tale. Themes include murder, abduction, relationships, families, drugs, friendship, secrets, trust, assault, torture, corruption, and much more.
Overall, this briskly paced novel was engaging and atmospheric with great characterization. I can’t wait to find out who will be featured in the next book. I recommend this to those that like romantic suspense novels with relatable and likeable main characters.
Berkley Publishing Group and Karen Rose provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 15, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------------ My 4.5 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Steven Konkoly brings together diverse characters and an alarming scenario like few authors can. His third book in the Devin Gray series, Wide AwakSteven Konkoly brings together diverse characters and an alarming scenario like few authors can. His third book in the Devin Gray series, Wide Awake, kept me reading late into the night. Devin Gray and Marnie Young are trying to return to a normal life after taking out a sleeper network. However, violence and a potential for another sleeper network has them back at work. A plan to start a civil war in the United States is underway. Threats and violence escalate. Who is behind it and can it be stopped?
As always, this author brings characters to life, especially Devin and Marnie. They’re intelligent, patriotic, self-confident, strong, and bold. However, they also have some shortcomings that readers find as the story progresses and their natures and backstories become known to readers. It was also great to visit with old friends from the Black Flagged series.
The initial chapters introduce the various characters and situations from a border patrol incident to the protagonists to various antagonists and supporting characters. However, it took a while to determine how everyone fits into the story, which takes readers from Washington DC to multiple US states to a foreign country. This novel kept me captivated from the first page to its astonishing conclusion.
Konkoly is an outstanding storyteller who kept me on the edge of my seat with gripping scenes, action, a superb plot, and fantastic writing. His military background brings an authenticity to his thrillers. He does a great job of balancing the shocking action scenes against the intrigue of the conspiracy plot and the planning of countermeasures. The dynamic plot came alive and felt all too possible with real-world issues incorporated into the story highlighting the societal and political differences between individuals and countries.
Plenty of suspense, a constant sense of urgency, a state of disquietude, and lots of action combined with great characters and a well-written plot make this novel a must read for those who enjoy thrillers. Themes include conspiracy, violence, differing political and social ideologies, duty, leadership, organization, and coordination.
Overall, this was a gripping, gritty, and chilling story with complex characters. It’s intense and dramatic and kept this reader turning the pages. It’s also my favorite of the series. I would recommend it to those who enjoy political and military thrillers. This book works well as a standalone novel. However, the background and relationship dynamics are best fully understood by reading earlier novels in the series.
Thomas and Mercer and Steven Konkoly provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 15, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------- My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Plenty of action and suspense along with fantastic characters and a well-written plot make this novel a must read for those who love thrillers. TuckerPlenty of action and suspense along with fantastic characters and a well-written plot make this novel a must read for those who love thrillers. Tucker Snow and his daughter Chloe have recently relocated to Ganther Bluff, Texas from the Dallas area. Tucker’s wife Sara Beth and their four-year-old daughter Peyton died in a car wreck caused by someone on drugs.
Tucker and his brother Harley worked as uncover narcotics agents for the Texas Department of Public Safety for decades. However, Tucker had taken his dream job as a special ranger with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association before the accident. He’s now on leave. However, Tucker and Chloe’s peace is shattered; first by arguing heard nearby, then by gunshots from two different guns. Tucker goes to the nearby trailer to make sure everyone is okay. This puts him on the radar of Jess Atchley who doesn’t like any type of law enforcement officer. On top of this, there are cars in and out of the trailer’s driveway day and night. As events escalate, Tucker goes back on active duty and calls Harley for help.
The characterization is well-done in this novel. Tucker is experiencing grief and loss. He is somewhat cautious, at least compared to Harley. Chloe is feeling lost and uprooted. However, she is trying to be understanding of her father’s feelings. The characters brimmed with personality. I am looking forward to the returning characters’ continued development in the next book in the series. Many of the antagonists are known early in the book. However, it is the action-packed journey filled with suspense that kept me turning the pages. It was a wild ride with sudden moments of danger. The author also brings a strong sense of place to the events in the book. The writing is descriptive without slowing down the vivid and action-filled plot. I could easily visualize the town, the people, and the countryside. Themes include grief, murder, assault, drugs, family, friendship, corruption, and much more. At the end of the book is an author’s note that should be read. It includes his comment that he stretched legal boundaries in this book to make the story more interesting. There is also a reading group guide and a conversation with the author section.
Overall, this riveting story arc immediately grabbed my attention and kept me engaged throughout the book. This is book one in the Tucker Snow thrillers series. I can’t wait to read the next book. Those who like action-packed crime thrillers will likely enjoy this novel. I’ve only read one other book by this author and it was a historical fiction crime thriller that was also excellent: The Texas Job.
Poisoned Pen Press and Reavis Z. Wortham provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via Net Galley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for August 02, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------------ My 4.41 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Loading...
