A Bite of Blueberry by Melissa Monroe and Kyla Colby is the third book in the Priscilla Pratt paranormal cozy mystery series. Priscilla is a vampiA Bite of Blueberry by Melissa Monroe and Kyla Colby is the third book in the Priscilla Pratt paranormal cozy mystery series. Priscilla is a vampire operating a bakery and catering business in Bellmare, Massachusetts. She’s also become an amateur sleuth. However, not all residents of the town like her and her business is being boycotted by some. Despite this, she’s hired to cater a breakfast. Unfortunately, she finds another body and gets caught up in another murder investigation.
There’s a mix of characters in this story line. Some are likeable, some are not, some add humor, and some are up to no good. I enjoyed the mix of humor, family, friendship, and community which helped to provide some relief from the threads of revenge and murder.
Overall, this was an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery that was fun to read.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was August 24,2018. ----------------------------------- My 3.45 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
Such Good Friends – A Novel of Truman Capote & Lee Radziwill by Stephen Greco is a fascinating historical fiction novel largely set in New York CiSuch Good Friends – A Novel of Truman Capote & Lee Radziwill by Stephen Greco is a fascinating historical fiction novel largely set in New York City. It starts with Marlene arriving at Lee Radziwill’s apartment to interview for the position of housekeeper and cook. As she becomes a trusted part of the household, she observes the famous individuals that are part of Lee’s close circle, especially author Truman Capote. Lee and Truman bond during the sixties and seventies as extraordinary events occur.
The author has done extensive research including reading items written by both individuals as well as books written about them and much more. Wealth, friendship, betrayal, fame, heartbreak, their social scene, and much more are key elements of this novel.
The characters came to life in this novel, but so did the settings. While this is historical fiction, it provides a look at the lives of these individuals and other notable personalities including Lee’s sister Jackie Kennedy. However, the pacing felt extremely slow to me making it a longer read for me. Overall, this story is entertaining and the author delivers a vivid story of life, friendship, and drama.
Kensington Books provided a complimentary physical copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was May 23, 2023. ----------------------------------------------------------- My 3.30 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
If you enjoy books with a main character who finds herself in the middle of a crisis and hoping to survive, then look no further than Joe Pitkin’s If you enjoy books with a main character who finds herself in the middle of a crisis and hoping to survive, then look no further than Joe Pitkin’s Exit Black. Imperium is an orbiting laboratory that still has working labs, but is now the first low orbit space hotel for the wealthy. Dr. Chloe Bonilla, the resident biophysicist wonders whether babysitting space glampers is worth the distraction from her research.
A private rocket delivers several billionaires plus a sponsored social media influencer. However, among the staff are members of a global group called the Reckoners intent on changing the economic inequality on Earth. This group takes control of the space hotel and demand $8 billion in ransom from their wealthy hostages. Additionally, they forced the other support staff in the room with the wealthy hostages. Their problem? Chloe woke up and left her room before they got to her. It’s up to her to save the hostages.
While most of the book is from Chloe’s point of view, readers get insight into a few of the other characters as well. Chloe has insomnia, can be stubborn when challenged, has a sense of detachment, and enjoys brainteasers. The other characters have varying degrees of depth, but felt rounded with complex traits. This includes a couple of the antagonists. What a beginning prologue! It pulled me into the story immediately. While the story is descriptive, it doesn’t slow the pacing, which is heart-poundingly fast. After the opening gala for the space tourists, the velocity of the tale increases significantly. I felt like I was fighting for survival along with Chloe.
The story instills in the reader a feeling of deep anxiety for Chloe and the safety of the hostages as Chloe tries to save them and herself. It was compelling to see how different people act and react under stress. The book has a wonderfully executed action thriller plot and good character development along with a low earth orbit setting that adds another dimension. The worldbuilding was excellent. I was transported into the terrifying situation Chloe and the hostages found themselves in. The epilogue contains some surprises that completely caught me off-guard. Themes include wealth inequality, social inequality, oppression, injustices, loneliness, relationships, lies, secrets, anger, moral and physical struggles, and much more.
Overall, this is an action-packed science fiction thriller that is also thought-provoking with complex characters and plenty of angst and suspense. It kept me guessing what would happen next throughout the novel. The author is a superb space action-thriller storyteller who kept me on the edge of my seat rapidly turning the pages.
Blackstone Publishing and Joe Pitkin 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 February 20, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ---------------------------------------- My 4.25 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
When Grumpy Met Sunshine by Charlotte Stein is a hilarious romantic comedy featuring opposites attract romance between ghostwriter Mabel WillickerWhen Grumpy Met Sunshine by Charlotte Stein is a hilarious romantic comedy featuring opposites attract romance between ghostwriter Mabel Willicker and retired footballer Alfie Harding. Mabel is hired to ghostwrite his memoir after 17 others have been rejected. Alfie doesn’t want to do this but has been badgered into doing it. After their business arrangement is mistaken for a romance, they decide to pretend to be a couple. Is their chemistry real or fake?
Mabel is curvy, bubbly, warm, kind, and cute. She also blushes easily and can get elicit thoughts and feelings from others that work well in a memoir. Alfie is known to be grumpy, blunt, and hates revealing anything about himself. He easily gets annoyed, cranky, and indignant. However, he is also perceptive, practical, and intense. Their dynamic is great, if a little over-the-top at times.
For the first 60 percent or so of this book, I was thoroughly enjoying the story line. It was funny with several laugh-out-loud moments. For the next 30 percent it was only steamy spice. I don’t dislike steamy spice in a book, but this was only that without advancing the plot. The last 8-10 percent was back to giving readers a story they could fully appreciate. My other quibble with the book was the excessive swearing that occurred.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Alfie and Mabel’s world and their journey together. It was an engaging and cute read with plenty of witty banter. The characterization was excellent and the descriptions gave readers an appreciation for their living conditions.
St. Martin’s Press, St. Martin’s Griffin and Charlotte Stein 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 February 6, 2024. ------------------------------------------------------------- My 3.09 review rounded to 3 stars is coming soon. ...more
Jackie Weger has penned a heartwarming romance. Decker Davenport has just 30 days (until December 24) to remodel and decorate a St. Augustine, FloridaJackie Weger has penned a heartwarming romance. Decker Davenport has just 30 days (until December 24) to remodel and decorate a St. Augustine, Florida Victorian home or the owner will put it back on the market. Unfortunately, his decorator has decided to get married and has cancelled on him. However, she has subcontracted with Annalise Owens to do the job. He watches as Annalise transforms the home while also bonding with Decker’s daughter, Sophie. However, Annalise has a secret that threatens the project and their relationship.
Decker is charming, confident, considerate, decisive, and kind most of the time. However, he also has a temper and is a risk-taker. Annalise is perceptive, creative, efficient, charismatic, and has a secret that deeply affects her. Sophie is clever, independent, precocious, and cute. Her best friend is a ragdoll named Nellie. Despite loving Decker, she desperately wants a mother.
The book moves at a steady pace and was entertaining with a little spice. However, the romance was too quick, the conflict could have quickly been resolved with one short conversation, and the story line was very predictable. Overall, it’s an easy, light read that’s enjoyable, but it failed to live up to its potential. Despite this, it kept my interest.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was December 8, 2020. ---------------------------------------- My 3.44 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
Once again, Carolyn Arnold has penned a strong and impactful tale in the sixth book in the Detective Madison Knight mystery series, Deadly ImpulseOnce again, Carolyn Arnold has penned a strong and impactful tale in the sixth book in the Detective Madison Knight mystery series, Deadly Impulse. Madison is suffering from flashbacks from her abduction by Russian criminals, but when a suspicious death of a sixty-eight-year-old woman becomes a murder case, her compulsion to find justice kicks in. Teamed up with her partner of six months, Detective Terry Grant, they must sift through the evidence and lies to find what has really happened and why.
Madison is strong-willed, impatient, and independent, but her abduction and flashbacks are affecting her. Despite this, she is tenacious, loves challenges, and pressures herself to have all the answers. Madison is not as likeable as many protagonists, but her faults make her feel more realistic than the perfect strong female lead. Driven to solve crimes and seek justice, Madison often goes on instinct, which doesn’t always mean she keeps an open mind. Terry is a good balance for her and she respects him. He is fair and balanced, keeps her grounded, and challenges her when it’s needed. Readers get some insight into Madison’s boyfriend, Troy Matthews, the head of the Special Weapons and Tactics department of the Stiles, Pennsylvania police department.
The book is a good mix of police investigation and the personal lives of Madison, Troy, and Terry. Readers are quickly pulled into the story line with a writing style that grabs and holds one’s attention. The plot is multi-layered and has twists and turns to keep a reader guessing. Fluid writing, great characterization, and a mystery to be solved kept me engaged. My one quibble is that I would like a little more world-building to feel like I was in Pennsylvania. Themes include, murder, friendship, trust, relationships, secrets, and much more.
Overall, this was a story that captivated me from the first page to its last. The author did a great job of weaving the threads together. I look forward to seeing what is next for Madison, Troy, and Terry. Readers of mysteries and police procedurals will likely enjoy this series. By reading the series in order, the character growth and the relationships that develop over time are more obvious. However, this novel can be read as a stand-alone.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was October 29, 2015. ------------------------------------------ My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
At the River by Kendra Elliot brings mystery and suspense to a police procedural. However, it is so much more than that. This is the fifth book inAt the River by Kendra Elliot brings mystery and suspense to a police procedural. However, it is so much more than that. This is the fifth book in the Columbia River series and the eighth book in the FBI Special Agent Mercy Kilpatrick series and features Mercy, her husband Police Chief Truman Daly, and Truman’s ward Ollie Smith as well as Detective Noelle Marshall of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s office. The novel is set in and around Eagle’s Nest, Oregon.
Twenty years ago, five teenage campers disappeared. Two turned up after several days, bound and left for dead on the shore of the Columbia River. The only one of the two to survive was Devin Bonner, but he doesn’t remember what happened. When a true crime podcaster is found dead in the same location with the same manner of death, Mercy, Truman, and other law enforcement personnel are determined to solve the recent murder along with the cold case.
Mercy is calm, intense, a talented investigator, and projects confidence. Truman has a calming effect on others. He also looks out for the older residents of Eagle’s Nest and the surrounding area. Ollie is compassionate, kind, thoughtful, and has a strong sense of right and wrong. Noelle is well-respected and very direct.
The suspenseful and complex story was well-plotted. It blended murder, disappearances, and amnesia with family, friendship, and much more. The story kept me captivated from its gripping beginning to its somewhat surprising conclusion. There are several twists and turns along the way and the pacing was good throughout the book. The author is an excellent storyteller who kept me rapidly turning the pages. My quibbles are that there was a little too much tell versus show at times and the ending was slightly rushed.
While the mysteries and their investigation drive a lot of the story, relationships play a big role as well. I enjoyed their threads being woven into the plot and seeing them unfold. Understanding the fallout from things kept hidden added to the enjoyment of the novel.
Overall, this engrossing police procedural has great characterization with likeable and relatable main characters as well as a solid mystery and story line. Themes include murder, secrets, disappearances, family, caring for others, friendship, and much more. While some characters are recurring, enough background is provided that allows this to work as a standalone novel as well. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers who appreciate mysteries and police investigations combined with family relationships will likely enjoy this series. Will Detective Noelle Marshall get her own book soon?
Montlake and Kendra Elliot 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 February 13, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ---------------------------------------- My 4.52 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
Murder by Lamplight by Patrice McDonough is a historical mystery set in Victorian London in November 1866. It features Detective Inspector RichardMurder by Lamplight by Patrice McDonough is a historical mystery set in Victorian London in November 1866. It features Detective Inspector Richard Tennant of Scotland Yard and Dr. Julia Lewis, one of Britain’s first female physicians. The two team up to investigate a series of gruesome murders that are linked. The murderer sends the police taunting letters and clues, but how many must die before the killer is caught?
Julia is overworked between her practice and operating a clinic in an impoverished part of town. She is direct, intelligent, curious, and wants to be listened to; not just seen. Richard is dour, aloof, guarded, has a steely resolve, and isn’t easy to know. Shrewd Sergeant Graves and young, but meticulous, Constable O’Malley assist them in their investigations. The characters have depth and seemed to come to life as the story unfolds. Readers also get insight into the killer as his or her viewpoint and thoughts are also occasionally revealed.
The narrative flows a little unevenly, but has a twisty and absorbing plot that is atmospheric. The story immediately fascinated me from the first chapter to its shocking conclusion. One of the things I enjoy about historical fiction is learning something new. In this case, I learned more about the 1854 Broad Street cholera outbreak in London and life in workhouses, as well as the beginning of women physicians in England. Readers should be aware that there are graphic descriptions of the sanitary conditions of the times. Themes include murder, immigration, racism, poverty, family, revenge, patience, friendship, and much more.
Overall, this dark, gritty, and engaging book has great characterization with likeable main characters, excellent worldbuilding, and a solid mystery. Readers who appreciate historical mystery stories will likely enjoy this novel. I hope that this becomes a series.
Kensington Books and Patrice McDonough 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 February 20, 2024. ------------------------------------------------------ My 4.18 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon. ...more
The Spy and I by Tiana Smith seems to be marketed as a romantic comedy. I feel it is more of a romantic suspense and action novel with it being heThe Spy and I by Tiana Smith seems to be marketed as a romantic comedy. I feel it is more of a romantic suspense and action novel with it being heavier on the suspense and action. There is attraction and an eventual romance mixed with a little humor. While the story starts and ends in and around Washington D.C. and Northern Virginia, most of the book takes place in Prague, Czech Republic.
Dove Barkley is a cyber security analyst who is mistaken for her sister Madison, who happens to be an undercover CIA operative. Dove gets pulled into a government mission by Mendez who claims to be Madison’s partner.
Dove is confident and feels powerful when coding, but not when she’s back in reality. She’s socially awkward, competent, lonely, talented, and generally optimistic. Mendez is smart, capable, charming, and can easily switch his outward personality traits.
The narrative flows well with a twisty and absorbing plot and a story that captivated me from the first chapter to its conclusion. My main quibble is that I wish the world-building for Prague was more in-depth. It seemed like the book could have taken place in any city. Themes include secrets, mistaken identity, trust, subterfuge, relationships, power, murder, rejection, fear, and much more.
Overall, this entertaining and fast-paced novel has great characterization with likeable characters as well as solid action and thrills. Readers who appreciate romantic spy novels will likely enjoy this novel.
Berkley Publishing Group and Tiana Smith 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 February 13, 2024. ------------------------------------------ My 3.98 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Tonya Kappes has penned an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery with the first book in the Magical Cures Mystery series, A Charming Crime. June HeTonya Kappes has penned an entertaining paranormal cozy mystery with the first book in the Magical Cures Mystery series, A Charming Crime. June Heal took over her deceased mother’s flea market booth that sells natural remedies to heal the body and mind. When her best friend and local police officer, Oscar Park, suggests they move to a town 30 miles away, she’s not sold on it, but ultimately decides to relocate to Whispering Falls, Kentucky. However, soon a member of the community is found murdered and June becomes the main suspect.
June is good in chemistry, has nightmares, and normally tends to see the good in everyone. However, many of her actions don’t seem very believable. Oscar has a bond with June, but didn’t seem to be a great crime solver. I wanted more character depth for him.
While the story is enjoyable, there were several instances when events were over-the-top and unrealistic. Despite this, the story flowed reasonably well and it was a quick read. The idea of a magical village provided a chance to wonder what it would be like to live there; especially with the odd laws they have. Readers are introduced to an eccentric array of characters who will likely show up in future books in the series. Secrets, lies, murder, and trust are threads that are woven into the novel.
Overall, this was an amusing story with magic, murder, discovering more about one’s self, and more.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 8, 2012. ------------------------------------------- My 3.46 review rounded to 3 stars is coming soon....more
January Fifteenth by Rachel Swirsky is a near-future speculative fiction novel set in four locations in the United States. January Fifteenth is thJanuary Fifteenth by Rachel Swirsky is a near-future speculative fiction novel set in four locations in the United States. January Fifteenth is the day all Americans receive their Universal Basic Income payment. The entire book takes place on this one day and oddly enough I read the book on January fifteenth.
The book switches back and forth between four individuals and gives a perspective of their lives and of various viewpoints on Universal Basic Income. Hannah took her two children and fled an abusive ex-wife on a previous January Fifteenth. Janelle is a young, broke journalist interviewing passersby about the policy she once opposed. She is raising her younger sister after their parents’ deaths. Olivia is a wealthy college freshman. Today’s the day students across the country compete to squander their payments. Sarah is a pregnant teen walking with other women and children in her community to pick up their payments.
The switching back and forth between four characters affected the pacing for me, despite some interesting scenarios. I was thoroughly intrigued by Hannah’s and Sarah’s stories, and even Janelle’s story had some interesting twists. The one that I liked the least was that of Olivia. However, that is the one that has the biggest twist to it that I didn’t see coming. Unfortunately, there is no real conclusion to the situation each woman is in.
Overall, this was a great premise, but didn’t deliver everything I expected. Despite this, I am glad I read it and the concept is thought-provoking. The author’s note gives a little information about Universal Basic Income programs and speculates on what impact it could or might have. She poses some good questions.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 14, 2022....more
Combining a former CIA spy, a confident salon owner, and a killer out for revenge, Sharon C. Cooper hooks readers with a startling prologue and keeps Combining a former CIA spy, a confident salon owner, and a killer out for revenge, Sharon C. Cooper hooks readers with a startling prologue and keeps them engaged with a witty and enthralling tale in Hunted, the fifth book in the Atlanta’s Finest romantic suspense series. Set mainly in Atlanta, Georgia, it features formed CIA spy and current security specialist Myles Carrington and salon owner Geneva Ramsey.
Myles prefers listening over talking, tends to be closed off and reserved, and has trust issues. Geneva is determined, social, bold, impatient, combative, and self-absorbed at times. Neither is looking for a long-term relationship.
Action, humor, and suspense combine with characters that have great chemistry despite having very different personalities to make an entertaining story. Although there is some repetition regarding their issues with long-term relationships, the pacing was good, there were a few twists and a big surprise along with a few spicy scenes. The antagonist becomes known to readers by their first name only early in the story. While the reason for revenge was clear, his skills weren’t as believable. More background was needed to better understand those. Despite this, I enjoyed the story as the conflicts moved the story forward and the storyline gripped me.
Overall, this was an entertaining and enjoyable book. While some characters from previous stories in the series show up in this one, it can be read as a standalone novel.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was January 14, 2021. --------------------------------------- My 4.34 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The Ghost Orchid by Jonathan Kellerman brings more than just murder to the 39th book in the Alex Delaware series. It combines a police procedural The Ghost Orchid by Jonathan Kellerman brings more than just murder to the 39th book in the Alex Delaware series. It combines a police procedural with psychology to bring additional insights into the story and people. The books also tend to be cerebral in nature and less on action.
Los Angeles Police Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware team up again when Milo is called to the scene of a double murder. Gio Aggiunta, the playboy son of an Italian shoe empire owner and his married neighbor Meagin March were found dead near the pool. There’s no forced entry, no forensic evidence, and no sign of a robbery. As Milo and Alex investigate the victims, they find both had troubled pasts. As they continue to pursue leads, more layers are added to the victims’ characters.
Milo and Alex have been friends for years and while they often approach cases from different standpoints, their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions, and they keep the cases fresh and entertaining. The way they bounce ideas off each other feels natural. At this stage of the series, the main characters are well known to this reader and have depth. Some secondary characters from previous books in the series show up to keep things interesting and provide additional awareness of how Milo and his team work together. It was great to see Detective Alicia Bogomil have a larger role in this novel and Alex’s partner Robin showed up several times as well.
Kellerman’s writing is polished and appealing, doing a good job of transporting me to the Los Angeles area. Whether they are talking about or experiencing the traffic or food or the people, I was living the events with Milo and Alex. Food shows up frequently in this series. They both want to achieve justice and hold bad people accountable for their actions. The story is well-plotted and has characters that felt authentic.
As always, the story is descriptive. This book will thrill fans of police procedurals who relish a story with realistic and diverse characters. Additionally, several themes are explored including mental health, divorce, friendship, family, rage, and much more. While this story isn’t high on suspense, it is a well-conceived and executed mystery.
Overall, this was a story that quickly drew me into Milo and Alex’s world and their latest case. It was an engaging read with a deeply involved plot and a solid mystery to unravel. I also liked the insights into Alex’s work with child custody and evaluation cases.
Readers that like the series, mysteries, and police procedurals should enjoy this latest novel. I don’t recommend jumping into this series at number 39, though. Start earlier in the series to have the best reading experience. I have read over 20 books in the series and plan to read them all. They’re never disappointing.
Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine and Jonathan Kellerman 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 February 6, 2024.
--------------------------------------- My 4.22 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett blends fantasy with a mystery. When a high Imperial officer is found dead in his home in Daretana, invesThe Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett blends fantasy with a mystery. When a high Imperial officer is found dead in his home in Daretana, investigator Ana Dolabra is called in to determine how this happened and who killed him. It’s not every day a tree erupts from a body even in an empire where contagions are plentiful and the blood of Leviathans corrupts the land. Was this an accidental contagion or was Commander Taqtasa Blas assassinated? Ana is assisted by her new apprentice assistant, Dinios Kol, an engraver magically altered to possess a perfect memory. However, the case is even bigger that the death of one officer. The safety of the Empire is at stake.
Ana is brilliant, but eccentric, easily bored, and often incites outrage in others. She insists on wearing a blindfold most of the time and doesn’t often leave her home. She also actively seeks knowledge in between cases, disregards politeness, and makes unusual but often accurate conclusions. Dinios has secrets, has a dull demeanor at times, doesn’t come across as friendly, and is somewhat baffled by Ana’s actions and deductions. Their interactions enlivened the story. However, don’t be fooled by your initial opinion of him. There are a lot of characters to keep track of, but they are introduced gradually and that helped. A list of ranks is provided, but a character list would have also helped.
The story immediately grabbed my attention with a riveting mystery and quirky characters. One question came to mind quickly. If Ana is such a brilliant investigator, why was she assigned to the small community of Daretana? The plot is complex, twisty, and multi-layered. The world-building is well-developed as readers learn more about it throughout the novel. While there are a few slow spots, I was rewarded by an enjoyable read as I persevered through them. I also wanted a little more suspense throughout the book. The ending of the book includes the highest level of action in the book and then sets the stage for book two. What will their next case entail?
Overall, this engrossing fantasy mystery has good characterization, even with a main character that wasn’t always likeable, and great world-building. The mix of mind and physical enhancements combined with sea monsters, sword fighting, contagions, and mysteries in this fantasy world made for an entertaining and fun read. Themes include wealth, power, greed, murder, secrets, revenge, betrayal, friendship, bureaucracy, and much more. Readers who enjoy a murder investigation set in a fantasy world will likely enjoy this novel. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine, Del Rey and Robert Jackson Bennett 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 February 06, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ---------------------------------------- My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Radiant Heat by Sarah-Jane Collins is an atmospheric mystery set in Lake Bend, Victoria, Australia. A horrific wildfire rips through Alison King’sRadiant Heat by Sarah-Jane Collins is an atmospheric mystery set in Lake Bend, Victoria, Australia. A horrific wildfire rips through Alison King’s hometown. After riding out the fire in her bathroom covered in a wet woolen blanket, she’s thankful to be alive. The fire had come close but changed directions. As she heads down her driveway, she spots a red car with a dead woman in it and finds a piece of paper with Alison’s name and address on it. Why was Simone Arnold trying to find Alison? Did she die because of the fire or was it something else that caused her death? Alison searches for answers.
Alison is a promising artist who moved back to her family home after her parents’ deaths. She lives alone, is sarcastic, and is easily distracted. She’s also an annoying main character who doesn’t listen to others and accept help when she should. She makes many bad decisions and isn’t extremely likeable, sometimes using others without contrition. Several secondary characters were complex and well-defined and the incredible setting is almost like a character itself.
This novel is very descriptive without slowing down the pace. There are some suspenseful scenes, although some of them are flashbacks. As she investigates the mystery woman, we learn more of Alison’s past. Unfortunately, these flashbacks adversely affected the pacing for me despite their importance to the story line. There was little to no warning of the time changes and this became disconcerting at times. The plot is multi-layered and has a few surprises for the readers. The search for answers moves the story forward through some unexpected twists.
The story grabbed my attention immediately and readers learn over time of the extent of the death and havoc the fire left behind. Friends, families, homes, and businesses are lost. The intrigue and mystery surrounding Simone’s death kept me turning the pages and the tension built gradually. Unfortunately, the ending was too ambiguous for me. I have several questions that remain unanswered and I wanted some closure. Despite this, the story is evocative and tragic with some thought-provoking scenes that kept me engaged. Themes include fire devastation and its impact on those who survive, secrets, death, relationships, control of others, feeling safe, and much more.
Overall, this engrossing, dark, intense, and unsettling thriller has good characterization, even with a main character that wasn’t extremely likeable, and great world-building while pulling on the heart strings. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
Berkley Publishing Group and Sarah-Jane Collins 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 January 23, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ---------------------------------------- My 3.28 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
A.C.F. Bookens combines murder, history, genealogy, and single motherhood in the entertaining first book in the Stitches in Crime cozy mystery series,A.C.F. Bookens combines murder, history, genealogy, and single motherhood in the entertaining first book in the Stitches in Crime cozy mystery series, Crossed by Death. Historian Paisley Sutton has been doing salvage work for the last year. When she crawls into the abandoned Scruggs Store and the attached house, she isn’t expecting to find a body. Her discovery leads to her exploration of the history of the building, its owner and a murder that occurred there twenty years ago. The story is set in the fictional small town of Octonia in Virginia.
Paisley has a rambunctious two-year-old named Sawyer. She and Sawyer’s father split up a year ago and she had to change careers and now does small salvage jobs, writes a history newsletter, and sells the items from the salvage jobs. She tends to thrive on conversation and innovation and cross-stitches to wind down in the evenings. Sawyer is charming, cute, and energetic. Sheriff Santiago Shiflett is calm, attracted to Paisley, and seems to share a little more information with Paisley than I would expect. I also enjoyed meeting Paisley’s cat, Beauregard.
With great characters and good pacing, the story was an entertaining read. Underlying it, the author brings issues of justice to light as well as work-life balance, friendship, family, secrets, and romance. I love the mix of murder with history and genealogy that give this book an edge over many other cozy mysteries. The small-town feel came through well in the storytelling. While the criminal was a little too easy to identify and there was a little repetition, the other aspects of the story kept me invested in and enjoying the book.
Overall, this was a story that hooked me with its subject matter and excellent characters. The author did a great job of weaving the threads together. I look forward to seeing what is next for Paisley, Sawyer, and Santiago. Readers of cozy mysteries who enjoy history, genealogy, cross-stitching, and an older protagonist will likely enjoy this series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was February 18, 2021. --------------------------------------- My 3.91 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Anne Frasier’s first book in the Inland Empire series, Find Me, is an impactful and chilling police procedural and psychological thriller. BenjamiAnne Frasier’s first book in the Inland Empire series, Find Me, is an impactful and chilling police procedural and psychological thriller. Benjamin Fisher, convicted of multiple killings, has finally offered to lead San Bernardino County homicide detective Daniel Ellis to the victims’ graves. He has two stipulations. The first is easy to accommodate (pie from a specific diner), but the second will be a challenge. He wants his estranged daughter FBI profiler Reni Fisher who hasn’t talked with or seen him in thirty years to accompany them. For the sake of the families, Reni finally agrees.
Daniel is divorced, driven, focused, intense, and determined to help the families find answers and closure. Reni loves the desert, makes pottery to relieve stress from her childhood trauma, is insightful, sometimes doubts herself, and tends to have flashbacks. Both has childhood events that affect them and shaped their careers.
After a chilling prologue, the story gradually builds momentum. However, there are several flashbacks that adversely affect the pacing. Despite this, they provide valuable background on the main characters. There are several twists and turns with some surprises and a couple that were more obvious. Despite a couple of over-the-top action scenes, I went with the flow and became engrossed in the deeply involved plot, incredible setting, and extraordinary, but flawed characters. The world-building is excellent and made the Mojave Desert come alive. The ending does leave a few open questions, but the main mystery was resolved.
Overall, this was a story that hooked me and kept me turning the pages. The author did a great job of weaving the threads together. I look forward to seeing what is next for Daniel and Reni. Readers of mysteries and police procedurals will likely enjoy this series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was July 1, 2020. --------------------------------------- My 4.18 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The tenth book in Dana Stabenow’s Kate Shugak series, Midnight Come Again, is part police investigation, part private investigator, and part crimeThe tenth book in Dana Stabenow’s Kate Shugak series, Midnight Come Again, is part police investigation, part private investigator, and part crime thriller. Plenty of suspense will captivate most readers as they work to uncover what is happening. Kate, a former investigator for the Anchorage District Attorney is now a private investigator. She’s been missing for several months after her soulmate is murdered and Kate is nearly killed. Alaska State Trooper Jim Chopin has worked several cases with her in the past. Friends ask him to find Kate and get her to come home. At the same time, he is tasked with going undercover in a remote village to discover what a Russian criminal gang is doing.
This book starts out a little on the slow side. However, it picks up and the pieces start to fall into place. As always, Stabenow does a great job of bringing the people and Alaska to life. It was easy to feel transported to Alaska with our main characters. I thought it was interesting that a large portion of this book was from Jim’s point of view and Kate only comes into the story later. As always, Kate is strong-willed, combative, and prickly, but she is also almost overwhelmed with grief. Besides grief, themes include family, friendship, secrets, cultural differences, education, and much more.
Overall, this was a well-written novel with great world-building and several plot twists. While the mysteries are resolved, there is a set-up thread for the next book. I’m looking forward to reading more of the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was January 1, 2000. --------------------------------------- My 4.23 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Linda Castillo’s first book in the Kate Burkholder series, Sworn to Silence, is not for the faint of heart. This crime thriller features Kate, theLinda Castillo’s first book in the Kate Burkholder series, Sworn to Silence, is not for the faint of heart. This crime thriller features Kate, the chief of police in the small town of Painters Mill in Ohio. This is in the middle of Amish country and the town heavily depends on tourism. Sixteen years ago, several brutal murders terrorized the community, but the violence suddenly stopped. Kate, who was raised Amish and 14 years old at the time, realized she couldn’t commit to their lifestyle and left the area four years later. Now, she’s the chief of police in her home town after getting eight years of experience as a police officer and detective in a larger city.
But her past secrets come back to haunt her when a body is discovered in a snowy field and the details are like those of the attacks 16 years ago. Add to this, a town council that isn’t being supportive, estrangement from her family, and a brutal killer intent on continuing to terrorize the community and readers get a page turner.
The characterization is excellent, making them come to life for me. Readers of the series will be familiar with many of them. One thing that struck me as slightly odd was the number of nicknames for officers on Kate’s investigation team. Kate stands out at someone who isn’t great at delegating, likes to finish what she starts, is focused, hates the politics and media side of the job, and is respected by her officers.
This novel is graphic in places and the murder descriptions are brutal and hard to read at times. The descriptive narrative transported me to Kate and her team’s suspenseful investigation. The plot twists worked well and the ending was action-packed. Ms. Castillo is an excellent storyteller who kept me engaged with gripping scenes and a creative plot that built suspense, but also contained some disturbing scenes. Themes include trust, forgiveness, faith, family, addiction, grief, trauma, respect, values, credibility, secrets, murder, community, betrayal, isolation, and much more.
Overall, this book was briskly paced, suspenseful, and gripping. This novel should delight those readers that enjoy police procedurals, crime thrillers, and mysteries that have a strong female lead character. I’m looking forward to reading more by this author.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 23, 2009. ----------------------------------------- My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Jonathan Kellerman brings plenty of suspense to the first book in the Alex Delaware series, When the Bough Breaks. Psychiatrist Dr. Morton HandlerJonathan Kellerman brings plenty of suspense to the first book in the Alex Delaware series, When the Bough Breaks. Psychiatrist Dr. Morton Handler is found brutally murdered. The police have no leads, but they have a possible witness: seven-year-old Melody Quinn. Los Angeles Homicide Detective Milo Sturgis turns to psychologist Dr. Alex Delaware for help in unlocking Melody’s memories.
Alex and Milo have known each other a few months. Readers learn how they met and some background information on them. Their investigative and cognitive techniques gel as well as their dispositions. However, they don’t yet have the rapport that they gain as the series progresses. This novel is less cerebral in nature and more investigation and is very action-oriented.
Kellerman’s writing style is appealing and he did a good job of transporting me to the Los Angeles area. Whether characters were talking about or experiencing the traffic or food or the people, I was living the events with Milo and Alex. Food shows up frequently in this series. Both Alex and Milo want to achieve justice and hold bad people accountable for their actions.
Overall, this was a suspenseful novel with great world-building and several plot twists. I’ve read 20 of the books in the series and I’m looking forward to reading those I’ve missed.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was March 1, 1985. ------------------------------------------ My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
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