His Last Wife initially seems to follow a predictable thriller storyline but takes an unexpected twist that kept me turning the pages. Anna believes sHis Last Wife initially seems to follow a predictable thriller storyline but takes an unexpected twist that kept me turning the pages. Anna believes she has found an ideal partner in Cary and a daughter in Harper but struggles to live in the shadow of his supposedly perfect former wife, Presley, who disappeared a year prior. As the story progresses, Anna realizes Cary may not be as flawless as she thought, and Presley may not be as deceased as she believed. I enjoyed the significant twist ending and minor surprises throughout this worthwhile read, which subverts the expectations set by the blurb.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
This psychological thriller starts with Rachel and her husband, Owen, relocating into a new neighborhood, where the residents are primarily friendly aThis psychological thriller starts with Rachel and her husband, Owen, relocating into a new neighborhood, where the residents are primarily friendly at face value. Yet, dark secrets reveal themselves behind the village’s mask as the story develops.
The crucial moment occurs when Rachel observes Phillipa verbally abusing and neglecting her young daughter Lexi at the welcome party. Lexi almost fell into a pond, and Phillipa did not give a damn. Rachel is triggered by her trauma of being told that she might never be able to have children. She gets obsessed with rescuing Lexi from her carefree mother.
On the other hand, although she shows her husband that she will put the past behind her, Rachel concludes that Philippa is not worthy of becoming a mother. Her goal is to make friends with Philippa and get close to Lexi, willing “to do anything.” This drives the plot with tension and mystery.
Maternal instinct is a recurring theme in the narrative. She desires to be accepted in the new community, but the child’s safety takes precedence. Her complicated motives make the reader ponder how far she will be between this dangerous mother-and-daughter duo.
This book will catch the reader from the beginning, when masks start falling, and secrets await just around the corner, ready to destroy the town’s polished façade. It will appeal to the readers of character-focused thrillers exploring shades of grey between good and evil under the pressure of primal instincts. I highly recommend this book; it is a fascinating psychological thriller!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
When Lena moves into her new home on idyllic Mandalay Close, she’s seeking a fresh start after heartbreak. But her hope for a peac4.5 stars rounded up
When Lena moves into her new home on idyllic Mandalay Close, she’s seeking a fresh start after heartbreak. But her hope for a peaceful new life is quickly shattered when mysterious letters appear on her neighbors’ doorsteps, threatening to expose their most private secrets.
As tensions mount in the once-quiet cul-de-sac, Lena watches in dismay as the community descends into chaos. Yet amidst the confusion, her house remains curiously untouched.
I was captivated from the very beginning. It was fast-paced, and the twists were fantastic throughout. The end left me flabbergasted. I enjoyed this very much and highly recommend it to all psychological thriller lovers!
Thank you to Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
This psychological thriller deals with the perspectives of best friends Maddie and Zoe, who are not only friends but also go through layers of relatioThis psychological thriller deals with the perspectives of best friends Maddie and Zoe, who are not only friends but also go through layers of relationships and personal issues. Maddie is troubled with problems in her marriage and her kid’s safety, and Zoe struggles with the war inside herself. Some of these twists are easy to predict, and others can be a surprise. The storytelling style with a touch of suspense keeps you engrossed and wondering about the characters’ choices. For fans of multi-layered domestic thrillers. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Joffe Books, ZooLoosBt, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
Esther has a real moral problem; she has to represent a client who she knows is manipulative and a liar. The story revolves around3.5 stars rounded up
Esther has a real moral problem; she has to represent a client who she knows is manipulative and a liar. The story revolves around how she assists Peter, a relatively wealthy and powerful man, in kidnapping the little boy from his mother, whom the lawyer-narrator perceives as the principal decision-maker.
Nevertheless, Peter gets terrible news from Esther’s past and threatens to make her tell her secret. Her tension grows in proportion to her blame as she follows his words and effectively supports the ruination of an innocent man’s life. You will appreciate her awful situation and her guilt for the mistake.
The pace is pretty fast, gliding from the courtroom chapters to the parts describing Peter and Esther’s reflections on her job, family, and what she has abandoned to save herself. The characters are complex and not always likable.
This suspenseful character-driven novel looks set to become a controversial morality discussion among readers that will challenge them to the trade-off, abuse of power, legality, moral ethics, and to what length one would go in the age of impossible choices where the career and family welfare are at stake. The story is disturbing and makes you think, and it is a perfect novel for legal thriller lovers.
Thank you to Jess Readett, Bookouture for the invitation, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review it....more
Blackburn’s latest novel offers a very promising backdrop of intrigue and romance. Landry is an appealing protagonist who finds re3.5 stars rounded up
Blackburn’s latest novel offers a very promising backdrop of intrigue and romance. Landry is an appealing protagonist who finds refuge behind the resort’s gates as she rebuilds her life. Her budding relationship with Cal allows both of the characters to open their hearts after their past hurts. However, the plot falters several times. The suspicious fire that destroys Landry’s pottery workshop fails to deliver on the anticipated danger, leaving the source of the threat ambiguous. Cal’s hesitation to embrace a new relationship, while understandable, leads to a tepid romantic tension. Although Blackburn skillfully weaves together the strands of small-town charm, second chances, and mystery, but never quite fully delivers the depth that would mimic the described idealized setting of Gossamer Falls. Readers who appreciate romance with a slight touch of suspense will find this a very pleasant diversion.
I want to thank Revell and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
Alicia, 17, appears on Carina’s doorstep needing a place to stay, and Carina, despite the fact they lost touch many years ago, takes her in. When CariAlicia, 17, appears on Carina’s doorstep needing a place to stay, and Carina, despite the fact they lost touch many years ago, takes her in. When Carina gets Alicia registered into the school and starts helping her unlock her potential, her daughter Teagan begins to feel displaced in her youth. The tension builds and the painful secrets emerge which prompts Carina to wonder if taking Alicia in was a good idea.
The intricate interrelations and the motives of the characters displace a variety of feelings. Painful truths of history returning, remind us all that we have regrets and moments we wish we could undo. The truth is a tough pill to swallow for both Alicia and Carina, even though they have no idea, but Miranda creates a very sensitive image of what even the most well-intentioned decisions can do to relationships and lives when they’re built on lies.
Thank you to Booksprout and Inkubator Books for allowing me to read and review this book....more
I have just finished an exhilarating rollercoaster of a novel that left my pulse racing. “How Can I Trust You?” surrounds married couple and business I have just finished an exhilarating rollercoaster of a novel that left my pulse racing. “How Can I Trust You?” surrounds married couple and business partners Ashley and Danny. While attending a friend’s daughter’s birthday party, a murder occurs, setting off a multi-layered mystery. As the plot unfurled, I found myself drawn in to solve the case alongside protagonist Ashley. This thriller truly delivers with its endless twists and turns. Just when I believed I uncovered the truth, the author introduced yet another unexpected twist. “How Can I Trust You?” is a superbly crafted page-turner that will keep readers guessing until the very last page. I highly recommend it if you enjoy a good page-turner.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
The most recent book by Jessica was a real page-turner, containing a lot of unexpected twists and turns that simply captivated me from the very first The most recent book by Jessica was a real page-turner, containing a lot of unexpected twists and turns that simply captivated me from the very first chapter. She is good at creating interesting mystery puzzles that will puzzle the reader along the story. As soon as I believed I had identified the perpetrator, she would introduce another turn of events that made my conclusion questionable.
In the last engrossing chapters, the puzzle did click and I was dumbfounded with how many clever plot points I had missed.
I still love Jessica as a thriller author, she is a favorite of mine. She is the best in complex, addictive storytelling and leaving the readers clueless. Her latest novel and all her books should be added to the reading list of all lovers of thrillers. I highly recommend "How to Commit the Perfect Murder in Ten Easy Steps", an awesome read!
Thank you to the author and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book....more
When Lucy’s best friend is murdered after a wedding, Lucy finds herself the prime suspect. Though she can’tWOW! I loved it…
HAPPY PUBLICATION DAY, AMY!
When Lucy’s best friend is murdered after a wedding, Lucy finds herself the prime suspect. Though she can’t remember what happened, she’s declared guilty and starts a new life in LA. Years later, a true crime podcast reopens the case, forcing Lucy to revisit her doubts. She struggles internally, haunted by the memory of her old friend.
I truly enjoyed reading it! The writing was so smooth and easy, that getting lost in the story was nothing. The dialogue was well-balanced between humor and sass, it added a fitting amount of personality and style to the characters. Speaking of the characters, they were all beautifully imperfect in a way that made them seem like real people. I didn’t have much choice, but to love them all. Also, we can’t forget those addicting scandals, as they had me pushing my seat up and staying hooked on every word from beginning to end. This book was a real gem and I honestly recommend it to anyone in search of an entertaining and captivating read.
I want to thank Anne from Random Things Tours and the author for allowing me to read and review this book....more
"Which Child" by Shayne Spyre is his debut thriller that tells the story of Sarah who has four identical daughters. Rose, Daisy, Violet, and Poppy wea"Which Child" by Shayne Spyre is his debut thriller that tells the story of Sarah who has four identical daughters. Rose, Daisy, Violet, and Poppy wear colored ribbons to tell them apart. The daughters, when they are four years old, are separated from each other by an envious childless woman. After many years, the three sisters are accused of various crimes such as shoplifting and later on murder.
The book is based on an interesting concept, but the development in the book feels somewhat dull. The characters are not well-developed and they are very difficult to like. The suspense about the identity of the sister who committed the murder is built in a rather confusing manner. The writing and character development are a bit weak, but the plot is interesting and you may find yourself sticking with it to find out which child is the murderer. On the whole, I really wanted to like this book, but the book ended up just being a mediocre read for me.
Thank you to The Book Folks, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
The story is set in a rural Georgia town with a Concerned Parents Committee, which determines to ban books the town's children should not read. The plThe story is set in a rural Georgia town with a Concerned Parents Committee, which determines to ban books the town's children should not read. The plot revolves around a town busybody, Lula Dean, who sets up a little free-lending library with some wholesome books, and one of the town's youth switches the books to the 'banned' books and keeps the original jackets so no one can know. As chaos ensues, the entire town is left divided. However, a group of teenagers and a few adults come together to expose Lulu and save their community from despair.
Miller narrates each story from various POVs and still does an admirable job in making their names and stories different enough for you to pick up on as you read.
As a town unites to fight for their right to read against the objections of one individual who gets annoyed at something trivial, Miller’s no-holds-barred style flourishes. The book is funny and eye-opening at the same time; therefore, I felt it was a good read.
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
“I looked in the mirror today but I’m not quite sure who was looking back. Sometimes I’m not sure who I am supposed to be , who I want to be, or for t“I looked in the mirror today but I’m not quite sure who was looking back. Sometimes I’m not sure who I am supposed to be , who I want to be, or for that matter who I need to be. I find it so hard to be just me.“
—Manda Spitler
I had to read this since this little girl was from Valparaiso, Indiana, and I reside in Indiana, not far from there.
Wow, talk about pulling at the heartstrings read. This book broke my heart, especially for her parents! Spitler does an excellent job telling Manda’s story through his own words as well as sharing Manda’s journal entries. This is an excellent book for all parents with children still at home, or adult children who may be in crisis.
Thank you to the author and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book....more
The pain which the leading character is supposed to suffer from is what makes the story catchy and fascinating. I saw the development of the plot quitThe pain which the leading character is supposed to suffer from is what makes the story catchy and fascinating. I saw the development of the plot quite soon, however, the author has managed to amaze me, and I liked the story. The reader is blinded by obscurity. The cliffhanger was awesome and I was indeed on the edge of my seat. I read the whole book in no time. This book will sit well on the shelf of those who love the similar, though captivating mysteries.
Thank you to Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
A friend or a friend that was lost revives an unwelcome memory of a squandered friendship. Lou and Anna were the best of friends once. They have a secA friend or a friend that was lost revives an unwelcome memory of a squandered friendship. Lou and Anna were the best of friends once. They have a secret from their past. How far will they want to leave the past dead? In this spellbinding and near-lethal novel, J. V. Cardy adroitly turns a classic childhood friend trope. Most were major shocks that suddenly directed the plot in totally unforeseen ways. This suspenseful novel is gripping, entertaining, and original.
Thank you to Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours and the author for allowing me to read and review this book....more
“Deeper Than the Dead” is focused on disgraced ex-cop Vera Boyett and her inner conflict of keeping secret family stories while trying to solve the my“Deeper Than the Dead” is focused on disgraced ex-cop Vera Boyett and her inner conflict of keeping secret family stories while trying to solve the mystery of human remains found in a cave on her family property.
This ingeniously written mystery keeps the reader in constant suspense until the end. Every time I was sure I had solved the murder mystery, there would be another twist, and my clean theory would go. At the climax, I had gone through many different suspects, which made the big reveal all the more surprising.
The author expertly weaves a complex net of doubt and curiosity that makes you itch with a desire to know more and more. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great who dun it.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
The Library of Borrowed Hearts is a sweet story that unites two solitary hearts through the love for books and surprising finds in the margins. When pThe Library of Borrowed Hearts is a sweet story that unites two solitary hearts through the love for books and surprising finds in the margins. When protagonist Chloe Sampson finds a rare 1960s book at the flea market, she cannot care for her three younger siblings. Curious about the notes between two young lovers written in the margins, she discovers one of them is possibly her cranky neighbor, Jasper Holmes.
This sends Chloe on a mission to discover the names of lovers who wrote in the margins of library books more than half a century ago. What became of these two unfortunate lovers? And what does it concern her lonely, miserable neighbor? In addition, as Chloe continues the literary scavenger hunt, she also keeps befriending Jasper, who turns out to have a deeper personality than one would think.
This delightful, funny, and touching tale connects the unlikeliest people through a shared love for books. The marginalia mystery gives the story so much energy; while trying to connect with Jasper, it is full of heart. Therefore, Chloe discovers that some love stories start in places she never imagined. Humorously and emotionally, Gilmore tells a romantic tale that transcends generations to show the book’s ability to unite people far apart and heal. The Library of Borrowed Hearts is a book that every reader will relate to.
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
After the death of her brother Philip from cancer, Rosalyn feels a sense of responsibility to look after her sister-in-law Melanie4.5 stars rounded up
After the death of her brother Philip from cancer, Rosalyn feels a sense of responsibility to look after her sister-in-law Melanie, who mourns the loss. To make Melanie happy, she persuades her husband, Ashton, to set up his friend Blake with Melanie. At first, the couple is shown as very happy, and they run away together after a passionate love affair. On the other hand, as Rosalyn notices the alarming alterations in Melanie’s behavior, she seems frightened and withdrawn, and Blake becomes a controlling husband.
The author masterfully weaves all the storylines together, which makes the plot full of suspense and mysteriousness. When I thought I had a good grip on the plot, two giant plot twists at the end knocked me over.
I could not put this book down. The story’s intricate, believable characters and unpredictability had me from the first page. I highly recommend this book!
Thank you to Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
Lacey Heller goes to a Christian summer camp for girls, and she is sure that this camp will be boring because nothing interesting ever happens there. Lacey Heller goes to a Christian summer camp for girls, and she is sure that this camp will be boring because nothing interesting ever happens there. Jo Delgado is sent to the camp under duress after a mysterious incident that turns her expectations upside down. The first problem between Lacey and Jo is differences in understanding – Lacey wants to be a good girl and princess and hates science, but Jo is interested in science. However, they begin to develop a relationship as they realize they both have problems with who they should be.
This is a classic story of coming-of-age where familiar clichés are presented when opposites attract and form unlikely friendships. The characters of Lacey and Jo offer readers a chance to interrogate the themes of identity, expectations, and being oneself. However, the story and character development should be so attractive that readers must read it. The writing style is barely an art but rather a craft.
For readers looking for a light and easy-to-read book, this novel will satisfy them; however, for those interested in a more profound reflection on coming-of-age issues, this book will not be sufficient. In the end, the book deals with known ground in a rather ordinary way.
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
This suspenseful story opens on a happy marriage anniversary celebration between a husband and wife. However, the following day, the wife receives a sThis suspenseful story opens on a happy marriage anniversary celebration between a husband and wife. However, the following day, the wife receives a shocking photo message from a friend depicting her husband walking hand-in-hand with another woman and also being physically intimate. When confronted, the husband evasively claims, "It's not what you think," refusing to explain.
As the story progresses, tensions escalate. The wife senses she's being watched and that her husband is acting like a stranger, making her feel she can no longer trust him. She desperately wants to uncover the truth behind the many photos and who sent them. There's a glimmer of hope that the husband is telling the truth, but the damage to their relationship may be beyond repair.
The mystery deepens around whether the wife truly knows her husband at all. As the secrets unravel, there's suspense about whether the final revelations will redeem or destroy their family.
This book has all the hallmarks of a taut psychological thriller. It plays upon relatable marital fears around betrayal and dishonesty. The alternation between the plot twists that affirm or challenge the husband's guilt will keep the readers guessing. Fans of domestic dramas and suspense thrillers will likely find this a quick, addictive read. The stakes feel intensely personal, as the wife and the children's safety prevails in the balance.
Overall, this psychological thriller will keep you guessing with its many unexpected twists and turns. The compelling mystery that Lynes has adeptly crafted will have you rapidly turning the pages to uncover the shocking conclusion. Fans of the thriller genre will find this book impossible to put down. With the story building to an explosive, jaw-dropping climax, this is a must-read page-turner bound to thrill the reader. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Bookouture, and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book....more
Jody ➡️ Blogs At Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense
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