The Busy Body by Kemper Donovan is a somewhat old-fashioned mystery complete with an ending where everyone is gathered in a single room for the biThe Busy Body by Kemper Donovan is a somewhat old-fashioned mystery complete with an ending where everyone is gathered in a single room for the big reveal. However, there is a contemporary side to the story as well. An unnamed ghostwriter gets a dream assignment to collaborate on a memoir with former Senator Dorothy Gibson. Gibson ran and lost as an independent for U.S. President and is being blamed for the shocking result. As they collaborate on the memoir, a neighbor dies and Dorothy is determined to solve the case.
The story is told from the ghostwriter’s point of view. As she and Dorothy play sleuth in rural Maine, both ask lots of questions of those involved to the dismay of the local police. The characters are well-defined and there’s a bit of glamour of the rich and famous weaved into the story. Additionally, readers never learn the name of the ghostwriter narrator or her backstory. Maybe, that is being saved for the next book in the series. While I found the story somewhat slow, there are a few surprises along the way that kept me interested.
Overall, this story is a light and entertaining read. This is the first book in the Ghostwriter series.
Kensington Books, A John Scognamiglio Book provided a complimentary physical copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is scheduled for January 23, 2024.
--------------------------------------- My 2.89 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
The Clinic by Cate Quinn is a psychological thriller that tackles tough issues along with a mystery. Meg works for a Los Angeles casino catching cThe Clinic by Cate Quinn is a psychological thriller that tackles tough issues along with a mystery. Meg works for a Los Angeles casino catching cheaters. However, after an injured shoulder during a frightening event last year, she is now hooked on pain pills and drinking too much alcohol. Her sister Haley enters a remote rehab clinic on the coast of Oregon and reports say she has died there. Meg decides to go undercover and checks herself into the facility so she can investigate what really happened. With her own addictions, learning the truth isn’t straightforward.
Meg believes emotions cloud your judgment. She doesn’t have a frame of reference for normal so she looks to others for clues on how to act normal. Childhood trauma and nightmares have affected her as well. She often uses humor to divert attention and is impulsive and guarded. She isn’t tactful and gets angry easily, but she’s a fantastic poker player. Cara is the administrative manager at the clinic. She’s organized, uptight, rule-oriented, and doesn’t trust others. Max is the psychologist for the clients. He has a calming and reassuring effect on others. He seems stern and somewhat aloof, but committed to his patients. Dr. Lutz owns the clinic, is unorthodox, is the clinical manager, and he has a derogatory attitude toward the local police.
This story switches points of view between Meg and Cara. There are only a few clients so the character list is manageable and readers get a feel for each. The author does a great job of bringing the main and secondary characters to life. Relationships, childhood trauma, betrayal, lies, power, money, addiction, mental health, paranoia, and the manipulation of others play varying roles in the story. The world-building was fantastic giving readers the ability to easily visualize the people and places in the novel, with the clinic almost being another character itself.
The story grabbed my attention immediately and didn’t let up as I rapidly turned the pages. The plot is twisty and riveting and there is a feeling of deep anxiety. I felt concerned for Meg as she tries to make sense of what has happened and what is happening to her. There are some exciting and frightening scenes that have a terrifying realism to them. Both the inner and outer conflicts faced by Meg move the story forward and through some unexpected turns.
Overall, this engrossing and unsettling thriller has great characterization and world-building and pulls on the heart strings. I’m looking forward to reading my next book by this author.
SOURCEBOOKS Landmark and Cate Quinn 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 4.05 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Christine Feehan returns with another thrilling book in the paranormal romance and supernatural suspense Leopard series. Gorya Amurov is known as his Christine Feehan returns with another thrilling book in the paranormal romance and supernatural suspense Leopard series. Gorya Amurov is known as his family’s peacekeeper, but he and his leopard are barely under control. His harsh life has molded him into a savage fighter with a calm exterior which is what others see. He believes he would be better off dead. Maya Averina had a cruel childhood and has been years hunting and killing the criminals who destroyed her life. She keeps to herself and has never lost focus until now. An ambush takes her by surprise and now she’s a prisoner about to be sold to the highest bidder. She’s ready to fight her way out until a man arrives to set her free. They’re also both Amur leopard shifters.
As always, Feehan does an incredible job of bringing the main and secondary characters to life. Both Gorya and Maya are elite shifters with abilities beyond that of most others. They’re faster, stronger, move more stealthily, and have other unique abilities. Gorya’s leopard, Slayer, is a killer and difficult to control. Maya’s leopard is Wraith. She has protected Maya since Maya was a toddler. Gorya seems gentle and considerate when compared to his cousins. He sooths explosive situations and then fades into the background. Many consider him weak. He has recently taken over the lair in the Atchafalaya River Basin in Louisiana and many challenges are expected. 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; especially Gedeon and Meiling. What a job interview they had!
While most of the novel takes place in Louisiana, there are also scenes in San Antonio and Houston, Texas as well as Russia and Panama. The world-building but good but not quite as great as the last book in the series where it was 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 including a surprise near the ending. The author balances the violent aspects of the novel with the intrigue, romance, suspense, work relationships, and the mending of two broken individuals. This novel features cruelty, power, death, greed, human trafficking, ill treatment of women and children, trust, friendship, acceptance, relationships, and much more. There is one long spicy and steamy scene.
Overall, this action-packed paranormal romantic suspense story has great characterization and pulls on the heart strings. It looks at a variety of types of relationships. Those who enjoy steamy and action-packed paranormal romantic suspense novels with compelling characters will likely enjoy this series. I have read more than seventy books by this author across multiple series. This one has the right mix of romance, tension, action, and a 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 opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for February 20, 2023. ----------------------------------------- My 4.34 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The End by James Patterson and Brendan DuBois is an action-packed military thriller and suspense novella. Owen Taylor and his team are on a covertThe End by James Patterson and Brendan DuBois is an action-packed military thriller and suspense novella. Owen Taylor and his team are on a covert mission. It’s Owen’s last mission before he retires to New Hampshire. Starting with bad weather, the mission is anything but smooth. He and four others are to parachute into Serbia to take care of an individual trying to start another major war.
While the story is descriptive, it doesn’t slow the pacing. Readers also get a good feeling for Owen’s character which is well-developed. The novella pulls on the readers’ emotions in this high-octane work with plenty of action and thrills as well as danger and sadness.
Overall, this story was entertaining and had a dynamic plot with an immense amount of conflict.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was January 3, 2017. ---------------------------------- My 4.16 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
The Store by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo is a slow-paced and occasionally suspenseful near-future science fiction novel. Jacob and Megan BThe Store by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo is a slow-paced and occasionally suspenseful near-future science fiction novel. Jacob and Megan Brandeis write books, but when they can’t get their latest one published, they end up getting jobs with the large, successful, and ultra-secretive Store. However, they get warehouse jobs with the Store in New Berg, Nebraska. Moving from New York to Nebraska is an adjustment for them and their two children. Additionally, they decide to write a controversial book about the Store. However, the Store is always watching.
I started and stopped this novel a couple of times, before I could sit down and read the story. After an engaging start, it faltered. However, it does have some interesting points and picks up the pace at the end. Themes include privacy, family, neighbors, and much more.
Overall, this is predictable, somewhat of a disappointment, and includes an abrupt ending.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was August 14, 2017. --------------------------------------- My 3.13 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
The Sleep Experiment by Jeremy Bates is a chilling horror tale that will keep readers turning the pages. In 2018, Dr. Roy Wallis, the head of psycThe Sleep Experiment by Jeremy Bates is a chilling horror tale that will keep readers turning the pages. In 2018, Dr. Roy Wallis, the head of psychology at the University of California at Berkeley is attempting a sleep deprivation experiment using a stimulant gas. With two Australian test subjects under surveillance around the clock, he and his two student assistants (Penny Park and Guru Rampal) will record their findings. These will include general observations as well as various test results. The experiment is scheduled to last twenty-one days. But the situation soon becomes a nightmare.
Wallis is fashionable, ambitious, and determined to see the experiment through to its end. Penny is sharp, has a sardonic sense of humor, is an extrovert, and she’s attracted to older men. Guru is intelligent and hopes to eventually help reform the health care system in India. The two test subjects are Sharon and Chad, who met while traveling in Europe, and have become friends.
While the prologue and last day of instruction chapters were interesting, the book pacing quickly slows to a crawl as readers gain insight into the various characters during the next two chapters. The following few days get more interesting as readers see how the test subjects behave as they experience boredom, lack of privacy, and endless tests that show physical and mental changes. Readers need to be prepared for a chilling, horrifying, and action-filled horrifying finish. Themes include human experiments, ethics, sleep deprivation, values, and much more.
Overall, this is a book that kept me turning the pages after a slow start to see what would happen next. It was initially intriguing and this was followed by shocking.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was July 7, 2019. ---------------------------------------- My 2.73 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon....more
The Deceiving Look by Victor Methos is well-plotted, twisty, and filled with characters that felt real and emotionally rich. This crime and legal The Deceiving Look by Victor Methos is well-plotted, twisty, and filled with characters that felt real and emotionally rich. This crime and legal thriller is the third novel in the Shepard and Gray series and features Solomon Shepard and Billie Gray. In this novel, Billie asks Solomon for help investigating the death of a local criminal defense attorney who is the former mayor of Tooele, Utah. The death looks like murder to Billie, but is it?
Solomon is on indefinite leave from the county attorney’s office after being attacked in a courtroom. He has isolated himself from others and suffers from anxiety, but he can’t say no to Billie. Billie is the local sheriff. She’s efficient, charismatic, confident, and gets things done. However, not all deputies and detectives view her as a strong leader.
The backstories of the two main characters as well as a couple of others give readers additional insight into their behaviors and actions. Even though it is the first book in the series that I have read, there was enough background for it to work as a fantastic standalone read. However, I believe I would have enjoyed it even more if I had already read the first two books.
This novel is impeccably written with engaging characters and a deeply involved plot. While the story is very character driven, the author does a great job of building momentum and suspense until it culminates in a disconcerting conclusion. This unsettling thriller has some graphic scenes and some twists that keep you hooked. Trying to understand the fallout from events kept me turning the pages rapidly. Relationships with colleagues, friends, family, and others help drive the narrative.
The author did a great job of balancing the shocking scenes in the novel against the suspense and mystery aspects. Gripping scenes and a well-crafted and riveting plot hooked me from the very beginning. The dynamic plot came alive with the well-defined characters and the significant amount of conflict. Hints and clues are dropped, but it took me a long while to guess who the antagonist was. What a shock! There are also a few sub-plots that add layers to the story. Themes include relationships, mental health, power, death, and much more.
Overall, this tense, suspenseful, and tragic novel gripped me from the beginning. The author brings strong characters, a great plot, and fascinating relationships to the novel. I can’t wait to read what the author writes next.
Thomas & Mercer and Victor Methos provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 9, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ----------------------------------------- My 4.02 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Northwoods by Amy Pease combines a crime thriller with a police procedural and a story of the personal struggles of the main character Eli North. Northwoods by Amy Pease combines a crime thriller with a police procedural and a story of the personal struggles of the main character Eli North. This gripping and suspenseful novel pulls at the heart strings as it takes readers to the events occurring in Shaky Lake, Wisconsin. Eli is working as a deputy, but the only reason he has the job is that his mother is the sheriff. He is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after a deployment to Afghanistan. Now his drinking is out of control and his marriage and career are on the line. When Eli finds the body of a teenage boy and then a teenage girl is reported missing, Eli and rest of the small sheriff’s department along with FBI Agent Alyssa Mason must unravel the multiple mysteries.
Eli uses alcohol to cope with memories resulting in broken promises and lateness. However, he also has the need to discover the truth, is kind, and loves his son and wife. His relationships with them, his mother, and others in the town made Eli more relatable. Most of the characters have significant depth that is shown through their actions and dialogue.
This novel has a complex and multi-layered plot that is intriguing and pulls readers into the story quickly. Most of the action is at the end of novel, but it didn’t feel slow. This may be because I was emotionally engaged in the various character struggles that are revealed, which felt authentic and held my interest.
Gripping scenes and an emotional story intermix with contemporary issues. Themes include relationships, family, friendship, substance abuse, mental health, power, greed, ethics, and much more. The realistic issues made this story somewhat disturbing, but a feeling of hopefulness and the encouragement and support of some of the characters helped to offset this.
Overall, this tense, suspenseful, and tragic novel gripped me from the beginning. It’s more character-driven than action-driven, but kept me ensnared in the events making it hard to put the book down. The ending wraps up the main mysteries, but there are threads that could be used for a sequel. I would love to see more books featuring Eli.
The author brings strong characters, a great plot, fascinating relationships, and excellent pacing to the novel. Written for those who love crime novels and police procedurals, Northwoods is a thought-provoking debut book. I can’t wait to read what the author writes next.
Atria Books, Atria/Emily Bestler Books and Amy Pease provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for January 9, 2024. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
----------------------------------------- My 3.95 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Iris Yamashita blends unique settings with diverse and memorable characters in this atmospheric mystery novel. Village in the Dark is thought-provIris Yamashita blends unique settings with diverse and memorable characters in this atmospheric mystery novel. Village in the Dark is thought-provoking, clever, and full of secrets. Cara Kennedy, a detective from Anchorage who is on disability, watches as the caskets of her husband and son are raised from the ground. Cara believes foul play may have been involved and intends to send them to a private lab for testing. Mia Upash grew up in the isolated village of Unity, but left it and is working at a diner. However, she’s haunted by past events. Cara is aided in her investigation by police officer Joe Barkowski and other residents of Point Mettier. This town can only be reached for part of the year via a tunnel, snowmobile, or helicopter. During the tourist season, a ferry is operated.
Several characters play major roles in the story and the points of view alternate between Cara, Mia, and Ellie. Cara is haunted by her past. She suffers from PTSD and her grief can overwhelm her at times, but she is normally a great detective. Mia is full of secrets and still learning how to survive away from Unity. Ellie lives in Point Mettier and operates an inn there. Joe is still recovering from recent injuries, but is anxious to get back to work.
The characterization is well-done. Readers get insight into the characters and their secrets as the story progresses. Their actions, reactions, feelings, and thoughts provide clues to their personality traits that helped me understand their larger roles in the story.
The premise for this novel is excellent and the mystery is riveting. The settings and atmosphere are terrific. The plot is complex and multi-layers with twists and surprises. The ending is action-packed and intense.
Overall, this story is gripping, thought-provoking, and emotional, with great world-building. It’s the second book in the series which should be read in order. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author and seeing where she takes the characters next.
Berkley Publishing Group and Iris Yamashita 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 3.86 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
What a fascinating introduction to Peri Sanguis in chapter one! Wild Magic by Alexandra Ivy is an urban fantasy, a mystery, and a paranormal romanWhat a fascinating introduction to Peri Sanguis in chapter one! Wild Magic by Alexandra Ivy is an urban fantasy, a mystery, and a paranormal romance combined in one entrancing novel. In a world of mages, witches, vampires, and more, Peri is a strong mage. At sixteen she was forced to flee her home to save her own life. Eventually she found a family with Maya and Skye who tutor her and together they run the Witch’s Brew bookstore and café. When her mother and her coven in slaughtered, she must travel back to Wyoming to solve their deaths. A member of the Vampire Cabal, Valen, goes as well and they work together to solve the mystery.
Both Peri and Valen are well-defined characters with depth. Peri is independent, intelligent, stubborn, opinionated, impulsive and uses mockery as a weapon. Valen is protective, wealthy, powerful, independent, arrogant, and bossy. However, he is also generous and has a hidden sense of humor.
Death, suspense, action, and drama immediately pull readers into the story, which is well-written. The plot is twisty and flows well. There is the right amount of mystery, romance and creative twists to the paranormal to keep readers engrossed and wondering what was going to happen next. My biggest quibble is that I wanted to know more about the Gyre. I felt the worldbuilding concerning it was insufficient.
Overall, this novel was a fast-paced and entertaining tale with great characterization that kept me engaged throughout the story. This is the first book in the Magic for Hire series. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Kensington Boks, Lyrical Press and Alexandra Ivy 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 02, 2024.
-------------------------------------- My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
What an action-packed military thriller! Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann and Ralph Pezzullo is the first book in the SEAL Team Six series and it is an eWhat an action-packed military thriller! Hunt the Wolf by Don Mann and Ralph Pezzullo is the first book in the SEAL Team Six series and it is an exhilarating and hair-raising novel. Featuring U.S. Navy Chief Warrant Officer Tom Crocker and several of his teammates. From a grueling mountain climbing training exercise to various nefarious plots that are unearthed, the team must dig deep to overcome everything that is thrown at them.
Crocker is straightforward, hardworking, and an elite soldier. He also has no patience for bureaucracy that impedes missions. The other characters are reasonably well developed.
As a former Navy SEAL, the author provides detail that ensures the novel feels authentic including the required mental, physical, and emotional toughness that is required. The story starts out strong, then eases up as readers become acquainted with the team and the plot is set-up. After that, it is action-filled, intense, suspenseful, and profound. While some of the scenes are over-the-top, I was along for the ride.
Overall, this is a riveting, dramatic, and frightening to think about novel that kept me engaged throughout. If you enjoy action-packed military thrillers, then this may be the series for you.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 26, 2012.
--------------------------------- My 4.1 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Pumpkins in Paradise is the first book in the TJ Jensen cozy mystery series and is set in Serenity, Nevada on Paradise Lake. TJ is the high schoolPumpkins in Paradise is the first book in the TJ Jensen cozy mystery series and is set in Serenity, Nevada on Paradise Lake. TJ is the high school women’s coach for downhill skiing, soccer, and track. For the last 14 years, she’s been friends with recluse Zachary Collins. When she finds him dead, she observes an anomaly or two and doesn’t accept the police closing the case. At the same time, she’s made multiple commitments to support the town’s annual pumpkin festival and is now the guardian of her two half-sisters.
TJ is athletic, loves puzzles, and overcommits to help the community. She’s a likeable protagonist. Many characters make this read one where you need to pay attention to the names and the subtleties to decipher the secrets. Fewer characters would have made the story tighter. However, I believe several characters will be reoccurring in future books.
While the pacing was a little slow and several of the mysteries were a little too easily solved, I still enjoyed this novel. Additionally, the new deputy, Dylan Caine, seemed a little too accepting of TJ’s involvement in the investigation. The ending tidily wraps up the main mysteries. Themes include gossip, death, grief, secrets, a community working together, and much more.
Overall, this is an entertaining and light cozy mystery that kept me engaged throughout. An amateur sleuth, a small town with many traditions, likeable characters, and the potential for romance made this an enjoyable read.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was September 25, 2013. ---------------------------------------- My 3.84 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
If you enjoy crime thrillers with humor, a twisty plot, and a protagonist who is a thief and a master of disguise, then look no further than Three-If you enjoy crime thrillers with humor, a twisty plot, and a protagonist who is a thief and a master of disguise, then look no further than Three-Edged Sword by Jeff Lindsay. This is the third book in the Riley Wolfe series. Riley uses his abilities to rob the richest. However, this time a rogue government agent has abducted the only two people Riley loves. If he doesn’t do what is requested, then there will be severe consequences. He must infiltrate a missile silo, enter a vault, and steal a flash drive within a limited amount of time.
The characterization is excellent. Riley lacks the qualities of many conventional heroes and is flawed. While his morals aren’t the typical ones we would associate with a protagonist, he is courageous, adept at disguise, and truly cares for the two people being held hostage. He doesn’t trust others easily, typically works alone, and needs risk in his life. But is this task the one that breaks him? Several of the secondary characters gained depth in this book as secrets are revealed and events occur. Readers of the series will have met some of the secondary characters, but there’s also a few new ones to keep the story fresh and interesting.
An exciting plot, some over-the-top action scenes, excellent character development, and descriptive settings made this an enjoyable read. The settings ranged from Botswana to South Africa to Lithuania to Germany to various locations in the United States with the majority set on an island in Lithuania. The world-building was excellent making it easy to visualize everywhere Riley went. While most of the story is from Riley’s point of view, there are chapters from the points of view of other characters. This did slow the pacing at times, but kept readers up-to-date on what was happening to other characters.
The author’s writing style hooked me quickly and drew me into this exciting and suspenseful tale. The conflict and unexpected twists kept me turning the pages. There is an unsettling and disturbing scene near the end. Several themes run through the story including theft, patriotism, love, friendship, death, threats, and how people are treated and how that can affect their actions.
Overall, this is a fast-paced and entertaining thriller with some humor to break the suspense occasionally. This series is best read in order as there is a small spoiler in this one for previous books in the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was December 06, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
---------------------------------------- My 3.73 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Hard Exit by J.B. Turner starts with an intriguing prologue that gets this political thriller revved-up and in high gear. A Swiss intelligence ageHard Exit by J.B. Turner starts with an intriguing prologue that gets this political thriller revved-up and in high gear. A Swiss intelligence agent goes missing and takes classified documents with him that have the potential to expose covert agents and information. It includes information on American, British, and other agents including one that is supposed to be dead. Since the “who” is a spoiler for the earlier books in the series, I recommend not reading the book synopsis and going into this novel cold.
Jon Reznick is former military and a former covert operative who still does occasional work for one of the American alphabet agencies. He’s an excellent shot, highly intelligent, fearless, and tough. However, he also has a temper and can experience mood swings.
This story has great pacing, a twisty and absorbing plot, and plenty of exciting scenes. My main quibble is that I didn’t quite feel like I was in Switzerland. I needed a little more world-building for that. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the novel. It is well-plotted with some unpredictable moments and plenty of conflict. Themes include murder, mystery, family, friendship, trust, duplicity, espionage, and much more.
Overall, this high-octane thriller was entertaining, thought-provoking, and a powerful page-turner from start to finish. This is the eleventh book in the Jon Reznick thriller series and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Thomas & Mercer and J. B. Turner 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 December 14, 2023.
------------------------------------------ My 4.45 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Lauren E. Rico has crafted a fascinating novel that combines family drama, a cold case, and a genetic mystery. Gabriella (Gabby) DiMarco works as a faLauren E. Rico has crafted a fascinating novel that combines family drama, a cold case, and a genetic mystery. Gabriella (Gabby) DiMarco works as a fact-checker for a magazine in New York. As a group the staff do DNA tests. When Gabby gets her results, she believes the laboratory made a mistake. Then she gets a message from someone on the genealogy site claiming to be her sister. This is an emotional and heartwarming story of Gabby and the woman who claims to be her sister Isabella trying to solve the mystery. While the story is told mainly from the points of view of Gabby and Isabella, there are chapters featuring several other characters. Will Gabby and Isabella get the full story and solve the mystery?
Set in Puerto Rice, this is a compelling narrative that has wonderful, but flawed main characters. The author weaves a complex web of emotions, secrets, and conflicts that will keep readers turning the pages. The worldbuilding is fantastic and the writing style is engaging.
Overall, this story is emotional, entertaining, and thought-provoking. The author delivers a vivid story of life and drama. I’m looking forward to reading more novels by this author.
Kensington Books provided a complimentary physical copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was December 26, 2023. --------------------------------------------- My 4.31 rounded to 4 stars review will be coming soon....more
Stolen by Allison Brennan brings plenty of intensity to the sixth book in the Lucy Kincaid romantic suspense series. Private investigator Sean RogStolen by Allison Brennan brings plenty of intensity to the sixth book in the Lucy Kincaid romantic suspense series. Private investigator Sean Rogan’s past has caught up with him. To clear his name and avoid going to prison, he must help the FBI take down a rogue agent. He must do this without telling his girlfriend FBI trainee Lucy Kincaid or his family what he doing. His only backup is FBI Agent Noah Armstrong.
I normally enjoy all of Allison Brennan’s books, but this one didn’t live up to my expectations. The story’s pacing was somewhat uneven and didn’t keep me rapidly turning the pages. However, the last half was better.
The plot has plenty of twists and turns, but is unbelievable at times. However, the author’s ability to combine strong characters and complex plots kept me reading and the ending was satisfying.
Overall, this was a slight disappointment for me. It’s the sixth book I’ve read by this author and I’m looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was June 04, 2013....more
Night Shift by Robin Cook is the thirteenth book in the Jack Stapleton and Laurie Montgomery medical thriller series. Jack is a medical examiner aNight Shift by Robin Cook is the thirteenth book in the Jack Stapleton and Laurie Montgomery medical thriller series. Jack is a medical examiner and Laurie is the newly appointed chief medical examiner in New York City. While this book is said to be a thriller, for most of the novel it is a mystery and the investigation of a death of a family friend. When Dr. Sue Passero dies in the hospital parking garage, an autopsy is required and Jack takes the case. Unable to determine a cause of death, he starts an investigation while waiting on lab results.
Cook’s description of Jack and several other characters came through extremely well. Jack is thorough, efficient, has a sarcastic sense of humor, and tends to function by pure reflex without thinking about the consequences. Laurie plays a much smaller role in this tale and mainly shows up in the last 25 percent of the book. Both Jack and Laurie are having trouble balancing work and family commitments. Beyond this, readers get a sense that Laurie is controlling, impatient, and feeling the stresses and strains of her new job.
This story focuses more on the investigation side of deaths versus action until the last 20 percent or so of the book. I wanted the suspense level to be higher than it was in the early part of the book. Additionally, this book takes place during the COVID pandemic and certain topics such as vaccines and masks were somewhat repetitive. However, these discussions were extremely common during the pandemic making it feel realistic.
After a slow start, the ending brings the suspense, danger, and foreboding that one expects from a medical crime thriller. Additionally, it looks at the levels of hospital staffing and the effects of a lost colleague on other staff members. The plot has plenty of twists and turns, but is unbelievable at times. My main quibble is that the antagonist was too easy to identify and it’s confirmed about half-way through the book. Despite this, I enjoyed the investigation part of the story which kept me intrigued.
Overall, this novel was well-written, thought-provoking, entertaining, and kept my interest. The tension, stakes, and action build up to an exciting ending that is over-the-top. The author’s ability to combine strong characters and complex plots kept me turning the pages.
I recommend this book to those that enjoy medical mysteries. This is the fourth book I’ve read by this author, but the second in this series. It worked fine as a standalone novel for me. I’m looking forward to reading the next one as well as previous books in the series.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date was December 06, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
------------------------------------------ My 3.84 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Murder in a Cup by Lauren Elliott is a paranormal cozy mystery, but it is so much more. From family dynamics, small town relationships, friendshipMurder in a Cup by Lauren Elliott is a paranormal cozy mystery, but it is so much more. From family dynamics, small town relationships, friendship, murder, and sisterhood to cultural heritage, this story has it all. Shay Myers owns an eclectic tea shop and is descended from an Irish witch. She’s been living in Bray Harbor, California for about a year. She is learning how to operate her business while dealing with her visions and her ability to sense other people’s energy. When a customer had a group tea reading dies and an employee is suspected of the murder, Shay is determined to prove her innocence.
Shay stands up for those she knows are innocent, but she doesn’t believe in or is afraid of her psychic abilities. This lack of confidence bothered me at times. She’s also stressed over the changes in her life. Her friend Liam helps her with her investigations and her dog Spirit protects her and others. My favorite character was Liam’s grandmother. Gran has recently moved the town from Ireland and is helping Shay learn about her heritage.
The novel moves at a decent clip and has a good mix of rounded and dynamic characters. The conflict advances the story line through a few twists and turns. There are several sub-threads that expand the story. I’m looking forward to seeing where they go in future books. Themes include jealousy, greed, family, resentment, a sense of losing control, and much more.
Overall, this cozy mystery keeps the reader guessing. Excellent characterization and a solid mystery made this one an enjoyable read. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Kensington Books - Kensington Cozies and Lauren Elliott provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently set for November 28, 2023. ------------------------------------ My 3.86 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
Nice Guys Finish Dead by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone is a fascinating western set mainly in rural Texas. However, there are also sceneNice Guys Finish Dead by William W. Johnstone and J.A. Johnstone is a fascinating western set mainly in rural Texas. However, there are also scenes in Waco, Fort Worth, and in Dodge City, Kansas.
Casey Tubbs and Eli Doolin are the owners of the D&T Cattle Company, a ranch they used to work on as hired hands. However, the beef market has seen better days and they need money and begin robbing banks and trains in disguise. Before long, the two are wanted men with the U.S. Marshal service even assigns Deputy U.S. Marshal Colton Gray to the case full time. But Casey and Eli aren’t your normal robbers.
The characters came to life in this novel, but so did the settings. From the dusty trails to the banks and saloons, it was easy to envision the action. With an unusual plot and wonderful humor and inventiveness, Casey and Eli have an aptitude for righting wrongs.
Overall, this story is entertaining and the character development is well done. I’m looking forward to reading more novels by these authors.
Kensington Books provided a complimentary physical copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was October 24, 2023.
---------------------------------------- My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon....more
That Others May Live by Jen J. Danna writing as Sara Driscoll is the fascinating, suspenseful, and heartbreaking eighth book in the FBI K-9 crime That Others May Live by Jen J. Danna writing as Sara Driscoll is the fascinating, suspenseful, and heartbreaking eighth book in the FBI K-9 crime thriller series. The book features Meg Jennings and her Labrador K-9 partner Hawk. They’re civilian employees of the FBI’s Human Scent Response Team.
Meg is preparing for another work day when she gets word of a calamitous scene in downtown Washington, D.C. near the White House. Part of a twelve-story high-end condominium building has collapsed, and the rest of the structure could soon follow. Her betrothed, Todd, is already at work. He’s a firefighter and paramedic and is likely already on site. If anyone is still alive within the rubble, she and Hawk along with the other K-9 teams must find them. Minutes count. But is this a random tragedy or is there a bigger threat?
Meg is compassionate, friendly, wants to help others, and has a keen sense of justice. She also has a fear of heights that she must overcome on some sites. Todd is smart, strong, capable, and pragmatic. While he may feel fear at times, he does the job despite it, and even uses it to keep himself sharp. There’s an array of characters from prior books that help with continuity and a sense of visiting friends. Key among these are her fellow K-9 team members and McCord, an investigative reporter who is Meg’s sister’s boyfriend.
Dynamic characters, unparalleled devastation, and great descriptions drew me in to this heartbreaking and intense story. It has a deeply involved and multi-layered plot and an incredible setting and takes place over the course of the week before Christmas. I was transported to the dangerous scene and felt as if I was living the events alongside the characters. This is an intense novel and reminds readers of the situations these teams and first responders encounter frequently. Their emotional toil is also highlighted as well as how several of them work through it.
The author’s writing style continues to hook me quickly. The prose is well-written and engaging. There are twists and turns and surprises along the way in an intricate plot that kept me anxious. The atmosphere is tense and serious throughout most of the novel and it has more technical details than usual given the nature of this disaster. The author brings strong characters, great plots, wonderful relationships, and excellent pacing to the series. I thought it was an interesting that the author gave a definition of an aspect of high-rise construction at the beginning of each chapter.
Overall, this tense, engaging, and tragic thriller gripped me from the beginning. It was difficult to put down. I’m a fan of the series and looking forward to reading the next book.
Kensington Books and Sara Driscoll provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for November 28, 2023. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine. ------------------------------------- My 4.6 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon....more
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