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
Avery Flynn’s first book in the Witchington paranormal romantic comedy series uses the frenemy to lover trope and is set in Wrightsville, Virginia. TiAvery Flynn’s first book in the Witchington paranormal romantic comedy series uses the frenemy to lover trope and is set in Wrightsville, Virginia. Tilda Sherwood is a member of the most powerful family of witches. However, she is a null and has no magical abilities. She handles her family’s social media presence. While using a matchmaker, she keeps getting set up on dates with Gil Connolly. When she somehow causes her sister’s spell to glitch, she needs to turn to others for help.
The story is a light and humorous read. It alternates points of view between Tilda and Gil. I enjoyed the unpredictable humorous moments that endeared the characters to me. Tilda and Gil are dynamic characters who are better defined than I initially expected. Both change and grow as the story progresses and they discover new aspects of themselves.
The physical world-building was well done. I could easily envision the Sherwood home and garden as well as the shops in town. However, one aspect of the writing didn’t work as well for me. At times, Tilda would talk to the reader. Despite this, it helped this reader escape the real world for an enjoyable evening. Themes include family, friendship, lies, deception, secrets, resistance, power, romance, and much more.
Overall, I was entertained and enjoyed the book. If you’re looking for a lite and charming paranormal romance tale with plenty of humor, some action, and a few steamy scenes, then this might be the book for you.
Berkley Publishing Group and Avery Flynn 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 December 06, 2022. --------------------------------------- My 3.07 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
Christine Feehan returns with another thrilling book in the paranormal romantic suspense Torpedo Ink series. The eighth book in the series features KiChristine Feehan returns with another thrilling book in the paranormal romantic suspense Torpedo Ink series. The eighth book in the series features Kir Vasiliev, a man that doesn’t care whether he survives missions or not. Whatever the Torpedo Ink club needs, Kir is willing to do. He’s sure no one will miss him or care if he doesn’t make it back. Meanwhile financial planner and investment banker Ambrielle (Ambrie) Moore is strong, independent, and not willing to settle for just any man. When a gangster and his guards try to force her into marriage and signing over her family’s money, she refuses. They turn to murder. A grieving and angry Ambrie is ready to fight the marriage to the death when Kir and his club show up anticipating a helpless woman. However, Ambrie is nothing like they expected.
As always, Feehan does an incredible job of bringing the main characters to life. Ambrie is intelligent, a great investor and money manager, and unwilling to compromise on a man. Kir is lethal, fades into the background, plays music, writes songs, and feels like he is expendable and isn’t worthy in the eyes of his club mates. The way both of them were raised (very different) has shaped their lives. Each goes through a transformation as the story progresses. It was also great to reconnect with characters from previous books. This gave the series continuity and I enjoyed visited with old friends.
The story grabbed my attention immediately and didn’t let up as I rapidly turned the pages. There are two story lines in this multi-layered plot. Each is filled with suspense and danger. The author balances the violent aspects of the novel with the intrigue, romance, relationships, and some occasional humor. This action-packed novel features greed, cruelty, child abuse, human trafficking, coercion, alcoholism, death, friendship, romance, communication, and much more. Several spicy and steamy scenes are also included.
Overall, this heart-wrenching book has great characterization, several sizzling scenes, and plenty of action. Those who enjoy steamy and action-packed paranormal romantic suspense novels with compelling characters will likely enjoy this book. I have read more than seventy books by this author across multiple series. This one has the right mix of romance, tension, action, and thrilling storyline. I’m looking forward to reading my next book by this author.
Berkley Publishing Group and Christine Feehan 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 24, 2023.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- Per publisher guidelines, my 4.58 rounded to 5 stars review will be posted around Jan 17, 2023....more
Christine Feehan returns with another thrilling book in the paranormal romance Leopard series. Meiling knows Gedeon is a leopard shifter as soon as shChristine Feehan returns with another thrilling book in the paranormal romance Leopard series. Meiling knows Gedeon is a leopard shifter as soon as she sees him. She knows she can’t trust a male shifter, but she still rescues him. Gedeon is used to women coming to him, but not carrying him to safety. As they get to know one another, they establish a working relationship, but there’s evil around them. Will they survive?
As always, Feehan does an incredible job of bringing the main characters to life. Meiling is intelligent, kind, witty, strong, confident, independent, loyal, fearless, and charming. Gedeon is fast, strong, dangerous, confident, loves the hunt, and he’s feared by many. There words, actions, reactions, thoughts, and mannerisms help readers gain even more clues about their personalities. Both had tragic and frightening childhoods and action-oriented careers. Each goes through a transformation as the story progresses. It was also great to reconnect with characters from previous books. This gave the series continuity and I enjoyed visited with old friends.
This novel takes readers on a journey. Scenes from the jungle in Venezuela, New Orleans, San Antonio, and Russia are well done. The world-building was great with the jungle as well as Gedeon’s house and the nearby swamp being especially vivid.
The story grabbed my attention immediately and didn’t let up as I rapidly turned the pages. The deeply involved and multi-layered plot has some unpredictable moments that add suspense and danger. The author balances the violent aspects of the novel with the intrigue, romance, work relationships, and the jobs they accept. This action-packed novel features cruelty, power, death, greed, jealousy, betrayal, friendship, romance, working relationships, and much more. Several spicy and steamy scenes are also included.
Overall, this action-packed romantic suspense has great characterization, several spicy and sizzling scenes, and plenty of action. Those who enjoy steamy and action-packed paranormal romantic suspense novels with compelling characters will likely enjoy this book. I have read more than seventy books by this author across multiple series. This one has the right mix of romance, tension, action, and thrilling storyline. I’m looking forward to reading my next book by this author.
Berkley Publishing Group and Christine Feehan 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.
----------------------------------------- My 4.63 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Still Waters by Sara Driscoll is the fascinating, suspenseful, and captivating seventh book in the FBI K-9 crime thriller and police procedural seStill Waters by Sara Driscoll is the fascinating, suspenseful, and captivating seventh book in the FBI K-9 crime thriller and police procedural series. Sara Driscoll is the pseudonym for authors Jen J. Danna and Ann Vanderlaan. The book features Meg Jennings and her Labrador, Hawk as well as her co-worker Brian Foster and his German shepherd, Lacey. They’re civilian employees of the FBI’s Human Scent Response Team.
They need to keep their search-and-rescue skills sharp and that requires training. This time, they got approval for a water-search training weekend in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area in Superior National Forest in northeastern Minnesota. This training is combined with a three-part search and rescue timed competition. When Hawk alerts to a scent in the water and a competitor’s body is found, the suspects are law enforcement officers and those that are supporting them: pilots, divers, trainers, judges, observers, and the coordinators of the training session.
Dynamic characters and great descriptions of the area drew me in to this story. It has a deeply involved and multi-layered plot and an incredible setting. I was transported to this pristine area and felt as if I was living the events alongside the characters. With multiple viable suspects, will Meg determine who the criminal is? There is one disturbing scene in this book, but it is not described in detail.
Overall, this tense, engaging, action-packed, and exciting crime thriller gripped me from the beginning. 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. 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.
-------------------------------------- My 4.6 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
In A Noble Cunning: The Countess and Tower, Patricia Bernstein brings to life the political and religious situation in Scotland and England. This In A Noble Cunning: The Countess and Tower, Patricia Bernstein brings to life the political and religious situation in Scotland and England. This novel is historical fiction set in the early 1700’s, but based on real events with names changed and fictional individuals added.
The story is told from the point of view of Bethan Glentaggart, Countess of Clarencefield, who lives in Scotland with her husband Gavin and their children. It’s the story of how people of different religions were treated. There’s fear, anger, hatred, and cruelty to others. When Gavin joins a group of rebels, he is captured. Bethan is determined to rescue her husband from the Tower of London before he is executed. She must face mob attacks, snowstorms, a cruel king, and more. Will she succeed?
The novel starts with a startling event that immediately grabs reader’s attention. There are a few unpredictable moments in the story, and even a couple of humorous moments to give readers a breather from the tension. The book is also very descriptive, which does a great job of giving readers a feeling of the time and place. However, it also slows the pace and adds to the instances of telling versus showing. Additionally, at the 95% point in the book, there is a fast jump in time with no transition. Despite this, the significant amount of danger, bravery, and plotting kept me fully engaged.
Overall, the book was atmospheric and full of suspense. The author has included a historical note at the end of the book. Since it contains spoilers, readers should not read this before reading the book. There are also two family trees, a timeline of events before and during the novel, and an extensive bibliography.
History Through Fiction, Independent Book Publishers Association, Members’ Titles, Patricia Bernstein, and Stephanie Barko 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 March 7, 2023. ------------------------------------------ My 3.19 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
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
Death at the Auction by E. C. Bateman is the first book in the Stamford cozy mystery series. This one takes place in Lincolnshire, England in the Death at the Auction by E. C. Bateman is the first book in the Stamford cozy mystery series. This one takes place in Lincolnshire, England in the historic town of Stamford and features Felicia Grant, ex-auctioneer who currently manages a gallery in London. Cassie, her best friend from her hometown calls and tells her she needs to fill in as auctioneer. Felicia’s father fell down some steps and broke his leg. As the final lot comes up for bid, her ex-husband Dexter shows up and a body falls out of a cupboard. The many suspects include Felicia and Dexter as well as a myriad of locals.
The character development is fantastic in this one. The relationships felt real and varied. Felicia gave up her dream job of auctioneering when she and her father couldn’t decide how to run the business together. She’s intent on clearing the family name. Dexter is affable and outgoing, but unreliable as his priorities have been towards fame and adulation. Their son, Algernon, is quiet and tends to observe situations. The other characters run the gamut from her supportive Cassie to patronizing and judgmental DCI Heavenly to Felicia’s curmudgeonly father.
The world-building transported me to Stamford. I could easily envision the town’s homes and stores as well as the churches and park. The dialogue felt natural and the plot was twisty with several subplots, a few exciting scenes, some unpredictable moments, and several suspects. The story captivated me with its riveting mystery. The ending was satisfactory and has several threads for future books in the series.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining novel with some humor to go with the mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers who enjoy amateur sleuths, a wide array of characters, and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and E. C. Bateman 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 18, 2022. ------------------------------------ My 3.98 rounded to 4 star 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
Blast Wave by Leo J. Maloney is intriguing and suspenseful; a novella you can’t put down. It brings almost non-stop action to this spin-off seriesBlast Wave by Leo J. Maloney is intriguing and suspenseful; a novella you can’t put down. It brings almost non-stop action to this spin-off series featuring Alex Morgan, the daughter of Dan Morgan.
Alex is on her way to a meeting in London, England with Zeta director Diana Bloch when there’s a sniper attack in Trafalgar Square. Alex works to pinpoint the sniper, but quickly realizes this is only one move planned by the vicious Ares Network. As events escalate, Alex heads to Tokyo to safeguard a firm closely allied with Western interests. However, more is going on than initially meets the eye. Can the threats be eliminated?
Due to the shortness of the story and the prolific action, there is limited character growth. However, the reader does get a look at Alex’s intelligence, her fighting capability, one of her interests outside of work, and how she goes about making friends. She is definitely memorable and she came to life for me as the story progressed.
The author does a great job of world-building. I was able to easily visualize the settings whether it was London or Tokyo. The prose is well-written, skilled, and proficient. There are sub-plots to the story which tie together well. With an action thriller such as this one, the reader normally has to be able to suspend belief. Despite this, the author’s own black ops experience made the action and story line seem very real. It added authenticity and depth that many lack. The plot was clever, intense, and impactful.
Overall, this book was fast-paced, tense, and exciting from the beginning. The high stakes made it a page-turner. Once I started it, I couldn’t stop until I reached the end. The story line felt fresh and certainly delivered on the promise of its opening scenes. Maloney is great at building tension and suspense as he delivers exciting outcomes. If you enjoy action thrillers that have a bold, intense, and strong female character, then this may be the series for you. I can’t wait to find out what is next for Alex. I also want to read the series featuring her father.
Kensington Books and Leo J. Maloney 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 December 13, 2022. ------------------- My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
On Spine of Death by Tamara Berry is the second book in the By the Book Mysteries series. I’ve seen this categorized as a cozy mystery and that fiOn Spine of Death by Tamara Berry is the second book in the By the Book Mysteries series. I’ve seen this categorized as a cozy mystery and that fits although it is slightly more gritty and gripping than many. It is also laugh-out-loud funny in places.
Tess Harrow is a bestselling thriller writer who has inherited her grandfather’s rustic cabin in the woods near Winthrop, Washington as well as his hardware store. Now that she and her daughter Gertie have updated the cabin, they are working to convert the hardware store into an independent bookstore. However, when the renovations result in bones from a cold case being found, the work comes to a halt. Was her grandfather a murderer or is there more to the story?
Tess has a hard time separating her fictional detective’s methods, which aren’t always “by the book”, and local Sheriff’s Victor Boyd’s method of following procedure, which leads to some fascinating and funny interchanges between the two. Dealing with real law enforcement officers is harder than she expected. The normally calm and levelheaded sheriff doesn’t stay that way as he interacts with Tess. Additionally, Gertie seems to enjoy being part of a murder investigation a little too much for Tess’s comfort. Now she wants to job shadow the town coroner.
For book lovers, readers not only get a main character who is a thriller writer, but there is a bookmobile that makes the rounds of the local communities and a deputy that has been writing a science fiction novel in her spare time. There’s also a couple of other book and author related tie-ins. Themes include parent-child relationships, friendship, murder, trust, family, and much more. The writing is terrific. What an opening scene! The characters, as well as the story, quickly engage readers. Visual and auditory imagery comes through vividly. The plot is absorbing and intriguing with a storyline that has a few red herrings, a couple of surprises, and lots of humor.
Overall, this engaging and funny novel immediately pulled me into the storyline and the lives of the characters. If you enjoy excellent cozy mysteries with a little extra grit, then I recommend that you check out this series. I am looking forward to finding out what happens in the next book of the series.
Poisoned Ped Press and Tamara Berry provided a complimentary DRC 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. ----------------------------------------------- 4.31 rounded to 4 stars....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
Christmas Wolf Surprise by Terry Spear is the third book in the Red Wolf paranormal romance series. This one features Gina Hutton and red wolf shiChristmas Wolf Surprise by Terry Spear is the third book in the Red Wolf paranormal romance series. This one features Gina Hutton and red wolf shifter Maverick Wilding. Gina, her brother, and two of his friends are hiking, camping, and looking for Bigfoot and werewolves in an Oregon state park when an accident brings danger, adventure, and more. Maverick and his brother are managing the holiday activities for their reindeer ranch when he hears something that means danger, and tries to warn Gina while in wolf form.
Gina and Maverick are likeable main characters. Gina is tenacious, fun, friendly, and a zoologist. However, how will she handle changes to her life? Maverick is patient, responsible, playful, but has secrets. The secondary characters are a blend of characters from the first book in the series plus some new additions, which gives continuity but keeps things fresh. Their connection is handled deftly, but happened a little too quickly.
Spear does an excellent job of blending romance and high stakes. Set around Christmas, this novel has a quick pace and lots of steam. My biggest quibble is that I wanted more suspense. The ending was wrapped up well, but it seemed too unrealistic. Nevertheless, the book captured the holiday spirit perfectly and was definitely enjoyable.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining novel with some humor to go with the danger, holiday events, and romance. I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca and Terry Spear 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 11, 2022.
--------------------------------------- My 4.09 rounded to 4 stars review is 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
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