Gretchen may be a little strange, but she's harmless -- right?
If you haven't yet seen buzz about this book, believe me, you will. It's one of those that you go into without any preparation or expectation so that you can be properly blown away by it. It's not often that a book surprises me, but this was masterful writing and incredibly entertaining. I was hooked immediately and couldn't put it down until I had finished. Let my breath go. And read the supplemental material that is best saved for last. Go on, get it now!
What it's about: Lucy is "fifteen, living in (our) tenth state, in (my) third high school already." She and her mom have been moving from place to place for the past thirteen years. There's always a trigger that makes them run -- someone gets too close or asks too many questions. Mom has told Lucy why -- Lucy's dad tried to steal her when she was 2 and mom got her back. Now they have to stay hidden from him. Lucy has no other information about her powerful, connected father, nor does she know her real name as they use fake IDs. They are very careful, but when someone slips up, they have to leave in the dead of night. Lucy is devatated to leave her latest home and her new best friend, Jenny, but Lucy makes a mistake and off they go again. The mother and daughter arrive in Milberg, New Hampshire, and fall in love with their rented one-story ranch house that's situated on a huge property with the owners living just up the hill in a colossal brick mansion. The father and daughter who own the place are a bit strange, but the girl is Lucy's age and wants to be immediate friends. Her name is Gretchen. Lucy is determined to stay and will do whatever it takes. She, however, did not plan for Gretchen. NO SPOILERS.
Why you should read this: First of all, the writing is simply masterful. The setting is well-described and the sense of menace and a creepy vibe is lurking in the background. Great material for quoting, but I couldn't highlight every sentence! I could picture it all so vividly. The depth of the characterization was amazing as I fell in love with Lucy immediately. She had so much personality and was totally believable. The narrative shifts a bit between characters allowing glimpses into their perspectives and thoughts which adds to the overall tone and forward movement of the story. The plot, well, it is quite complex and I didn't see a thing coming -- a refreshing surprise. I could say a lot more, but won't because I don't want to give any hints. Believe me, you'd never expect this engrossing tale from the synopsis. Plus, you want to read this so you'll be able to talk about it with other folks who've read it and cackle gleefully cause you know all the answers! Who wants to be first to buy a ticket for the big screen version?
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the e-book ARC to read and review. I'm definitely going to be following this author!
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- thriller with some horror aspects
NetGalley Top Reviewer
NetGalley Top Reviewer
Wednesday, July 31, 2019
The Dead Wife by Sue Fortin
Psychological thriller with a large measure of romance featuring an amateur sleuth who works for a travel agency as a features writer.
What it's about: Stephanie Durham wanted to be a big-time journalist, but that hasn't quite panned out yet so she indulges in her passion for photography while working for the website and magazine "Vacation Staycation." When she's offered the opportunity to cover the reopening of Conmere Resort Center in the Cumbria Lake District, she's pleased to attend and perhaps will have a chance to visit her mom who lives nearby. While researching the resort she reviews the articles surrounding the accidental drowning death of Elizabeth Sinclair, the young wife of one of the 3 sons who run the place. To her surprise, she's contacted by Elizabeth's mother, Sonia, who asks Steph to investigate the incident because she doesn't believe that there was anything accidental about it. So off Steph goes and gets much more than she bargained for. NO SPOILERS.
Should you read it? If you like a mystery that's fairly predictable with a huge dose of romance (hard to buy into it actually), then this is the book for you. You may also need a strong ability to suspend disbelief because of the way everything goes down. Stephanie is meant to be a strong, sympathetic character, but her emotions definitely win over her brain given what she does. A large amount of coincidence and improbability made me roll my eyes at times. I never felt the tension or suspense despite the situations Steph gets herself into, and I certainly didn't like any of the other messed up characters, especially Steph's mom or any of the Sinclair family. I knew early on "who did it" so it seemed that it took a long while to get there and the conclusion was anticlimactic. I'm finding it hard to rate as I really enjoyed the description of the setting while not really liking the plot or the characters. Without the instant romance, I'd probably have rated it higher.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I'll likely give her another go somewhere down the line despite the fact that I was a bit disappointed with this one. I admit I have really high expectations for psychological thrillers especially as I'm looking for something truly original where I can be surprised.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic drama, mystery, amateur sleuth
What it's about: Stephanie Durham wanted to be a big-time journalist, but that hasn't quite panned out yet so she indulges in her passion for photography while working for the website and magazine "Vacation Staycation." When she's offered the opportunity to cover the reopening of Conmere Resort Center in the Cumbria Lake District, she's pleased to attend and perhaps will have a chance to visit her mom who lives nearby. While researching the resort she reviews the articles surrounding the accidental drowning death of Elizabeth Sinclair, the young wife of one of the 3 sons who run the place. To her surprise, she's contacted by Elizabeth's mother, Sonia, who asks Steph to investigate the incident because she doesn't believe that there was anything accidental about it. So off Steph goes and gets much more than she bargained for. NO SPOILERS.
Should you read it? If you like a mystery that's fairly predictable with a huge dose of romance (hard to buy into it actually), then this is the book for you. You may also need a strong ability to suspend disbelief because of the way everything goes down. Stephanie is meant to be a strong, sympathetic character, but her emotions definitely win over her brain given what she does. A large amount of coincidence and improbability made me roll my eyes at times. I never felt the tension or suspense despite the situations Steph gets herself into, and I certainly didn't like any of the other messed up characters, especially Steph's mom or any of the Sinclair family. I knew early on "who did it" so it seemed that it took a long while to get there and the conclusion was anticlimactic. I'm finding it hard to rate as I really enjoyed the description of the setting while not really liking the plot or the characters. Without the instant romance, I'd probably have rated it higher.
This is the first book I've read by this author and I'll likely give her another go somewhere down the line despite the fact that I was a bit disappointed with this one. I admit I have really high expectations for psychological thrillers especially as I'm looking for something truly original where I can be surprised.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic drama, mystery, amateur sleuth
Tuesday, July 30, 2019
Death at Ivy House (Sukey Reynolds #5) by Betty Rowlands
A police procedural and cozy mystery involving SOCO Sukey Reynolds of the Gloucester Police.
What it's about: A woman, known to be a former prostitute, is found bludgeoned to death at Ivy House. She'd been set up as mistress there by Trevor Blackton whose had a couple of run-ins with police in the past. Did he kill Evie Stanton in a jealous rage? The police can't seem to find Blackton nor any evidence that he committed the crime. There are some other factors that lead DI Jim Castle to believe that someone else may be behind the murder. Then another victim is found, one with some strange links to the Ivy House murder. And how is a homeless man, a magazine street vendor, connected -- but they can't find him either. The bodies pile up, there are multiple suspects, and wouldn't you know, it's Sukey who starts piecing it all together. NO SPOILERS.
Should you read it? If you like detective novels that are complicated and require them to chase down a lot of leads, interview many different people, and put all the information together to close a case, then this is a series for you. You have to accept that Sukey Reynolds, divorced mom to teenage Fergus, secret girlfriend of Jim Castle, was meant to be a detective but due to circumstances, ended up being a SOCO, a civilian, instead. Given her interest in helping to solve the crimes, which is definitely beyond her remit, she often goes off and makes discoveries on her own. I like her as a character but she needs to stop listening to her boyfriend and get herself qualified as a police officer or detective in her own right. DI Castle is quite protective and patronizing and Sukey is always getting put down for her efforts even though they always result in her finding something important. I've read all of this series, in order, to date and will continue on with the rest of them as they come available as I like the writing style and the interesting cases. In fact, I'd love to have her job!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC to read and review. Keep them coming! I know these were published years ago, some with different titles, but they are still timely and I'm sure that other readers will love discovering these gems.
This is the 5th book in a long running series. I suggest you read them in order!
Genre -- police procedural, cozy mystery with amateur sleuth
What it's about: A woman, known to be a former prostitute, is found bludgeoned to death at Ivy House. She'd been set up as mistress there by Trevor Blackton whose had a couple of run-ins with police in the past. Did he kill Evie Stanton in a jealous rage? The police can't seem to find Blackton nor any evidence that he committed the crime. There are some other factors that lead DI Jim Castle to believe that someone else may be behind the murder. Then another victim is found, one with some strange links to the Ivy House murder. And how is a homeless man, a magazine street vendor, connected -- but they can't find him either. The bodies pile up, there are multiple suspects, and wouldn't you know, it's Sukey who starts piecing it all together. NO SPOILERS.
Should you read it? If you like detective novels that are complicated and require them to chase down a lot of leads, interview many different people, and put all the information together to close a case, then this is a series for you. You have to accept that Sukey Reynolds, divorced mom to teenage Fergus, secret girlfriend of Jim Castle, was meant to be a detective but due to circumstances, ended up being a SOCO, a civilian, instead. Given her interest in helping to solve the crimes, which is definitely beyond her remit, she often goes off and makes discoveries on her own. I like her as a character but she needs to stop listening to her boyfriend and get herself qualified as a police officer or detective in her own right. DI Castle is quite protective and patronizing and Sukey is always getting put down for her efforts even though they always result in her finding something important. I've read all of this series, in order, to date and will continue on with the rest of them as they come available as I like the writing style and the interesting cases. In fact, I'd love to have her job!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC to read and review. Keep them coming! I know these were published years ago, some with different titles, but they are still timely and I'm sure that other readers will love discovering these gems.
This is the 5th book in a long running series. I suggest you read them in order!
Genre -- police procedural, cozy mystery with amateur sleuth
Monday, July 29, 2019
The Divorce by Victoria Jenkins
Psychological thriller with domestic drama that leaves a relationship counsellor reeling when she attempts to help a married couple whose situation reminds her just a bit too much of her own past.
What it's about: Karen Fisher, a 56-year-old widow, is a psychotherapist whose specialty is marriage counseling. Her newest clients, Josh and Lydia Green have been married for 14 years and have two young children. As the couple returns in repeat sessions, Karen starts to feel a vibe that indicates that Lydia may be in danger. As her concern mounts, Karen elicits more revelations from the two and she is unconvinced that she can save the marriage. She's reluctant to make any suggestions and is starting to wonder if they are telling her the truth. NO SPOILERS.
Why you should read it: The narrative shifts between the 3 voices of Karen, Josh and Lydia. As might be expected, each has a different perspective and take-away from the sessions. Karen is also dealing with her own personal issues and bad memories and the reader senses that she's attuned to what might be going on in the Green's marriage that may mirror her own experience. The reader is well aware that something isn't quite right and the anticipation of finding out the big reveal creates some good tension. If you're a fan of this genre -- the unreliable narrator, secrets, lies, revenge -- then this is the story for you.
I've read the police procedural series by this author and liked those books but this is a departure for Victoria Jenkins writing a psychological thriller. Personally I prefer a police procedural to bad marriage stories, but that's just me! More science, less emotional drama. I'd give this a solid 3.5 stars though.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - psychological thriller/domestic drama
What it's about: Karen Fisher, a 56-year-old widow, is a psychotherapist whose specialty is marriage counseling. Her newest clients, Josh and Lydia Green have been married for 14 years and have two young children. As the couple returns in repeat sessions, Karen starts to feel a vibe that indicates that Lydia may be in danger. As her concern mounts, Karen elicits more revelations from the two and she is unconvinced that she can save the marriage. She's reluctant to make any suggestions and is starting to wonder if they are telling her the truth. NO SPOILERS.
Why you should read it: The narrative shifts between the 3 voices of Karen, Josh and Lydia. As might be expected, each has a different perspective and take-away from the sessions. Karen is also dealing with her own personal issues and bad memories and the reader senses that she's attuned to what might be going on in the Green's marriage that may mirror her own experience. The reader is well aware that something isn't quite right and the anticipation of finding out the big reveal creates some good tension. If you're a fan of this genre -- the unreliable narrator, secrets, lies, revenge -- then this is the story for you.
I've read the police procedural series by this author and liked those books but this is a departure for Victoria Jenkins writing a psychological thriller. Personally I prefer a police procedural to bad marriage stories, but that's just me! More science, less emotional drama. I'd give this a solid 3.5 stars though.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - psychological thriller/domestic drama
Sunday, July 28, 2019
Girls Like Us by Cristina Alger
Exceptional writing, a unique setting, and a strong female protagonist combine to make this crime thriller one to savor though it's more fun to devour it in a single sitting!
What it's about: Nell Flynn, a 28-year old FBI agent who works in the BAU, returns to Long Island to scatter her father's ashes. Martin Flynn was a Suffolk County detective and only 52 years old when he skidded off the highway while riding his motorcycle. Though they were estranged and Nell hadn't been back for over 10 years, she is there to settle his debts, sell his house, and relive the memories of her childhood near Hamptom Bays. After she and her father's fellow detectives take care of putting Martin to rest, her father's partner, Lee Davis asks Nell for her help with an investigation he and Martin were conducting. Two young Latina women have been found, dismembered and buried in shallow graves in public preserve parks and they've not had any luck finding the perpetrator. When they start talking to various local people and run down some clues, they find surprising information that has Nell worried. Was her father the killer? NO SPOILERS
Why you should read it: Nell Flynn is a great character. She's full of contradictions and it's quite easy to like her and find her believable. The narrative is filled with descriptive prose that captures the feeling of the landscape and the area so well that it makes me want to visit that place. There's a great build of tension as Nell makes her discoveries and starts piecing things together. It was very hard to put this book down as I wanted answers just as much as she did! The backstory about Nell's mother was intriguing and the resolution was appropriate and rewarding. Here's another book that would make a great miniseries and I hope I haven't seen the last of Nell as I think this could be the start of a great series. This is the first book by this author that I've read, but it won't be the last!
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series -- though I wish it would be start of one!
Genre - crime thriller featuring FBI Agent, female protagonist
What it's about: Nell Flynn, a 28-year old FBI agent who works in the BAU, returns to Long Island to scatter her father's ashes. Martin Flynn was a Suffolk County detective and only 52 years old when he skidded off the highway while riding his motorcycle. Though they were estranged and Nell hadn't been back for over 10 years, she is there to settle his debts, sell his house, and relive the memories of her childhood near Hamptom Bays. After she and her father's fellow detectives take care of putting Martin to rest, her father's partner, Lee Davis asks Nell for her help with an investigation he and Martin were conducting. Two young Latina women have been found, dismembered and buried in shallow graves in public preserve parks and they've not had any luck finding the perpetrator. When they start talking to various local people and run down some clues, they find surprising information that has Nell worried. Was her father the killer? NO SPOILERS
Why you should read it: Nell Flynn is a great character. She's full of contradictions and it's quite easy to like her and find her believable. The narrative is filled with descriptive prose that captures the feeling of the landscape and the area so well that it makes me want to visit that place. There's a great build of tension as Nell makes her discoveries and starts piecing things together. It was very hard to put this book down as I wanted answers just as much as she did! The backstory about Nell's mother was intriguing and the resolution was appropriate and rewarding. Here's another book that would make a great miniseries and I hope I haven't seen the last of Nell as I think this could be the start of a great series. This is the first book by this author that I've read, but it won't be the last!
Thank you to NetGalley and G.P. Putnam's Sons for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series -- though I wish it would be start of one!
Genre - crime thriller featuring FBI Agent, female protagonist
Saturday, July 27, 2019
The School Friend (The Friendship Pact) by Alison James
A standalone domestic thriller that didn't go exactly where I was expecting and I liked it for that reason.
What it's about: Lucy (Lucinda Katherine Mary) is married to the eminent cardiac surgeon Marcus Wheedon. She's his second wife and has two stepchildren. Unfortunately, the union is not a happy one for Lucy. Marcus is a controlling jerk and, after 5 years of his dominance, she is determined to leave his abusive household. Marcus has no intention of letting her go. When Lucy goes on the run and is brought back home by Marcus time and again, she knows she needs some help to escape. Who can assist? She has an old friend from childhood, Adele Watts, and they share a secret that might make Adele willing to aid and abet... But that's only part of the story. NO SPOILERS.
Why I liked it: The writing and pace of the story made this a really fast read. I enjoyed how the story was able to surprise me by veering a bit off the typical psych thriller plot line. I expected Lucy to be successful, of course, but not exactly in the ways in which it all happened. I found Lucy to be relatable and, though she definitely makes some stupid choices, I did find myself liking her. It was easy to get through this in a single sitting and despite the conclusion being a bit unbelievable, it was fitting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. It has since been retitled as the copy I read was "The Friendship Pact."
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic drama/psychological thriller
What it's about: Lucy (Lucinda Katherine Mary) is married to the eminent cardiac surgeon Marcus Wheedon. She's his second wife and has two stepchildren. Unfortunately, the union is not a happy one for Lucy. Marcus is a controlling jerk and, after 5 years of his dominance, she is determined to leave his abusive household. Marcus has no intention of letting her go. When Lucy goes on the run and is brought back home by Marcus time and again, she knows she needs some help to escape. Who can assist? She has an old friend from childhood, Adele Watts, and they share a secret that might make Adele willing to aid and abet... But that's only part of the story. NO SPOILERS.
Why I liked it: The writing and pace of the story made this a really fast read. I enjoyed how the story was able to surprise me by veering a bit off the typical psych thriller plot line. I expected Lucy to be successful, of course, but not exactly in the ways in which it all happened. I found Lucy to be relatable and, though she definitely makes some stupid choices, I did find myself liking her. It was easy to get through this in a single sitting and despite the conclusion being a bit unbelievable, it was fitting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. It has since been retitled as the copy I read was "The Friendship Pact."
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic drama/psychological thriller
Friday, July 26, 2019
The Marriage Trap by Sheryl Browne
Domestic drama that focuses on a family with so many secrets and lies that it will make your head spin!
What it's about: Jason and Karla Connelly have been married for 12 years. They have two young children, 11-year old Holly and 10-year-old Josh. Jason's business is failing and Karla keeps nagging him to get a loan from her father, wealthy businessman Robert Fenton. Now, Robert is, as the author tells us every other page, a real sleazeball -- a "bully, womanizer, misogynist" -- so Jason really doesn't want his money. When Jason finally has no other choice and goes to talk to Robert about a business deal, Robert rocks Jason's world with a bombshell of a secret he's revealed only to finally break up Jason and Karla's marriage -- a goal he's had since the two got together. And things go completely awry from there. NO SPOILERS.
My thoughts about this book: I had a really hard time with this one. It was way too full of redundancy and angst with the same old song on eternal repeat. Thus it seemed to drag on far too long and the dangled hints about the "secrets" got on my nerves since I'd long figured out the big thing. It's told in alternating points of view, Jason and Karla narrating the chapters, so that you're inside both of their heads. I honestly didn't like any of the characters in this drama and didn't feel empathy nor could I manage to relate to anything they were thinking or feeling. What a collection of pathetic losers! OK maybe that's a bit harsh but that sappy love stuff doesn't go too far for me and I couldn't buy it no matter how hard it was being sold.
Should you read it? If you like a plot line that focuses on despicable people hiding important information from their families and if you enjoy meandering around a straight line plot while having a lot of feelings, this would be for you. If you prefer lots of emotional drama, this will be your cup of tea. You may or may not find a twist or surprise, just depends on how many books in this particular genre niche that you read. The characters are paper thin and stereotypical meaning they are either "good" or "bad" and those labels are beat home. And any #metoo supporters will get their validation that lecherous and sexual harassment perpetrators get their just due.
I've read other books by this author and I'll try another one in the future but I just wish for more depth than the usual secrets and lies, bad marriages, poor communication, typical dysfunctional families and I hope for something new in the psychological thriller vein.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic drama featuring secrets and lies
What it's about: Jason and Karla Connelly have been married for 12 years. They have two young children, 11-year old Holly and 10-year-old Josh. Jason's business is failing and Karla keeps nagging him to get a loan from her father, wealthy businessman Robert Fenton. Now, Robert is, as the author tells us every other page, a real sleazeball -- a "bully, womanizer, misogynist" -- so Jason really doesn't want his money. When Jason finally has no other choice and goes to talk to Robert about a business deal, Robert rocks Jason's world with a bombshell of a secret he's revealed only to finally break up Jason and Karla's marriage -- a goal he's had since the two got together. And things go completely awry from there. NO SPOILERS.
My thoughts about this book: I had a really hard time with this one. It was way too full of redundancy and angst with the same old song on eternal repeat. Thus it seemed to drag on far too long and the dangled hints about the "secrets" got on my nerves since I'd long figured out the big thing. It's told in alternating points of view, Jason and Karla narrating the chapters, so that you're inside both of their heads. I honestly didn't like any of the characters in this drama and didn't feel empathy nor could I manage to relate to anything they were thinking or feeling. What a collection of pathetic losers! OK maybe that's a bit harsh but that sappy love stuff doesn't go too far for me and I couldn't buy it no matter how hard it was being sold.
Should you read it? If you like a plot line that focuses on despicable people hiding important information from their families and if you enjoy meandering around a straight line plot while having a lot of feelings, this would be for you. If you prefer lots of emotional drama, this will be your cup of tea. You may or may not find a twist or surprise, just depends on how many books in this particular genre niche that you read. The characters are paper thin and stereotypical meaning they are either "good" or "bad" and those labels are beat home. And any #metoo supporters will get their validation that lecherous and sexual harassment perpetrators get their just due.
I've read other books by this author and I'll try another one in the future but I just wish for more depth than the usual secrets and lies, bad marriages, poor communication, typical dysfunctional families and I hope for something new in the psychological thriller vein.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic drama featuring secrets and lies
The Chain by Adrian McKinty
PSA: Clear your schedule, turn off your mobile, lock the door and settle in for one very intense reading session! This is a book that demands to be read in a single sitting without distractions.
I was wondering what all the recent hype was about, and wow did I find out. I can see why this one is getting so much buzz and it's definitely well-deserved. Someone please tell me that this is another summer blockbuster that will be optioned for the big screen?!
What it's about: Rachel Klein, divorced and age 35, is driving to see her oncologist when she gets the first call. A distorted voice tells her "two things you must remember...you are not the first and you will certainly not be the last...it's not about the money -- it's about The Chain." In a follow up call, Rachel receives awful news -- her 13-year-old daughter, Kylie, has been kidnapped. The person at the other end of the phone is very clear. All Rachel has to do do is follow the rules and then she'll get her daughter back, unharmed. There's a ransom demand, and, unbelievably, Rachel learns that she is also going to have to kidnap someone to replace her daughter on The Chain. Any deviations and Kylie will die. No one can break The Chain or everyone pays. NO SPOILERS.
Why you should read it: The writing is excellent; there are so many good quotes I couldn't pick one to start off my review as I normally do. The plot is original and well-paced creating tension and suspense from the very start. The characters are multi-dimensional and elicit empathy and relatabiililty. You root for them, as unlikely a duo as are Rachel and Pete, and even if you have to suspend some disbelief, you go there willingly. It's pure entertainment and kind of scary in many ways. I really enjoyed it and I think you will too!
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for the e-book ARC to read and review. I'll be recommending this one to every reader I know!
I was wondering what all the recent hype was about, and wow did I find out. I can see why this one is getting so much buzz and it's definitely well-deserved. Someone please tell me that this is another summer blockbuster that will be optioned for the big screen?!
What it's about: Rachel Klein, divorced and age 35, is driving to see her oncologist when she gets the first call. A distorted voice tells her "two things you must remember...you are not the first and you will certainly not be the last...it's not about the money -- it's about The Chain." In a follow up call, Rachel receives awful news -- her 13-year-old daughter, Kylie, has been kidnapped. The person at the other end of the phone is very clear. All Rachel has to do do is follow the rules and then she'll get her daughter back, unharmed. There's a ransom demand, and, unbelievably, Rachel learns that she is also going to have to kidnap someone to replace her daughter on The Chain. Any deviations and Kylie will die. No one can break The Chain or everyone pays. NO SPOILERS.
Why you should read it: The writing is excellent; there are so many good quotes I couldn't pick one to start off my review as I normally do. The plot is original and well-paced creating tension and suspense from the very start. The characters are multi-dimensional and elicit empathy and relatabiililty. You root for them, as unlikely a duo as are Rachel and Pete, and even if you have to suspend some disbelief, you go there willingly. It's pure entertainment and kind of scary in many ways. I really enjoyed it and I think you will too!
Thank you to NetGalley and Mulholland Books for the e-book ARC to read and review. I'll be recommending this one to every reader I know!
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- suspense drama
Thursday, July 25, 2019
The Silent Ones by K.L. Slater
"We're all caught up in our own little worlds of denial and dread."
The unimaginable happens when two 10 year-old cousins are detained after an assault on an elderly woman, Bessie Wilford, whom they'd been visiting. The parents of Maddy are Juliet and Tom Fletcher and single mom, Chloe Voce's daughter's name is Brianna. Juliet and Chloe are sisters and have grown to adulthood in a quite dysfunctional family. When Maddy and Brianna are interviewed, neither of them will say a word. A child therapist, Dana Sewell, is brought in to help with getting the two cousins to talk. The townspeople and press are going wild with vitriol and disgust as the news goes out about the attack by these two ten-year-olds. Juliet and Chloe each try to support their daughters but the whole incident is bringing the entire family to the breaking point. Secrets and lies are revealed and the truth comes out with a shocking betrayal. NO SPOILERS.
This is domestic drama at heart and moves at a fairly slow pace with some flashbacks to the childhood of Juliet and Chloe where we learn a little about their family unit including Mum and Dad. It won't surprise anyone that there were problems there that would ultimately lead to what's meant to be a shocking revelation. I did not like any of the characters in this novel as they all had some issues and behaved in ways that I found irritating or repugnant. I believe we're supposed to feel some empathy for Juliet, but she was annoying in making excuses for herself and her self pity. I felt that the cousins were just a sidebar in a plot that should have featured them a bit more as they were very one-dimensional in the narrative. I think I was expecting more of a crime thriller plot because of the "murder" -- even though it's clearly marketed as a psychological thriller. I've read previous novels by this author that I liked more, and I'll read future books by K.L. Slater -- it's just that sometimes I find the synopsis misleading or it doesn't give me an accurate expectation for what the book is about. I guess I thought I was going to read a book about child killers...my mistake.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- family drama, psychological
The unimaginable happens when two 10 year-old cousins are detained after an assault on an elderly woman, Bessie Wilford, whom they'd been visiting. The parents of Maddy are Juliet and Tom Fletcher and single mom, Chloe Voce's daughter's name is Brianna. Juliet and Chloe are sisters and have grown to adulthood in a quite dysfunctional family. When Maddy and Brianna are interviewed, neither of them will say a word. A child therapist, Dana Sewell, is brought in to help with getting the two cousins to talk. The townspeople and press are going wild with vitriol and disgust as the news goes out about the attack by these two ten-year-olds. Juliet and Chloe each try to support their daughters but the whole incident is bringing the entire family to the breaking point. Secrets and lies are revealed and the truth comes out with a shocking betrayal. NO SPOILERS.
This is domestic drama at heart and moves at a fairly slow pace with some flashbacks to the childhood of Juliet and Chloe where we learn a little about their family unit including Mum and Dad. It won't surprise anyone that there were problems there that would ultimately lead to what's meant to be a shocking revelation. I did not like any of the characters in this novel as they all had some issues and behaved in ways that I found irritating or repugnant. I believe we're supposed to feel some empathy for Juliet, but she was annoying in making excuses for herself and her self pity. I felt that the cousins were just a sidebar in a plot that should have featured them a bit more as they were very one-dimensional in the narrative. I think I was expecting more of a crime thriller plot because of the "murder" -- even though it's clearly marketed as a psychological thriller. I've read previous novels by this author that I liked more, and I'll read future books by K.L. Slater -- it's just that sometimes I find the synopsis misleading or it doesn't give me an accurate expectation for what the book is about. I guess I thought I was going to read a book about child killers...my mistake.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- family drama, psychological
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
A Stranger on the Beach by Michele Campbell
"We are only as blind as we want to be."
When Aidan meets Caroline...it's not a love story for one of them!
Caroline has been married to Jason Stark for over 20 years. They're quite well-off and have recently built a lavish beach house on a lovely property on a bluff overlooking the ocean miles outside the city. Their daughter, Hannah, has just gone off to college and it's time for the two empty nesters to enjoy the spoils of all their labor. But things go off the rails the night of Caroline's housewarming party. For one thing, her husband is a no show -- until he turns up late with a woman. Is Jason having an affair? The guests are lapping up the drama and Caroline is humiliated. When confronted, Jason leaves and Caroline can't get in touch with him. The topic of divorce is raised. Meanwhile, she takes herself down to a local watering hole, recognizes the bartender as a guy she'd met outside her beach house earlier on, and proceeds to get drunk with him. One thing leads to another and the 43-year-old Caroline has what she believes will be a one night stand with 27-year-old Aidan Callahan. And that's when it all begins...NO SPOILERS
This domestic suspense thriller really takes off and is immediately confounding as the story is told in two voices -- that of Caroline and that of Aidan. It's difficult to assess reliability because the way each describes events is completely different. Is this a torrid love affair or an obsession? The characters are well-developed and given comprehensive backstory, but it's hard to know who is telling the truth. Neither of them is particularly likeable, but the reader is drawn in quickly to all the drama and it became impossible to put this book down so I read it in a single sitting. Absorbing and confusing, the narrative continues with twists and turns that you may or may not see coming. Just go with it, suspend any disbelief, and ride along for the final revelations that make complete sense in retrospect. I really liked the writing style and the shifting points of view, especially when the police become involved and interject their own commentary.
I heard recently that this is to be made into a movie and I can't wait to see it! I enjoyed this one and see "Summer Blockbuster" written all over it. If you like your charcters honest and straight forward, this is not the book for you!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the e-book to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic suspense/drama
When Aidan meets Caroline...it's not a love story for one of them!
Caroline has been married to Jason Stark for over 20 years. They're quite well-off and have recently built a lavish beach house on a lovely property on a bluff overlooking the ocean miles outside the city. Their daughter, Hannah, has just gone off to college and it's time for the two empty nesters to enjoy the spoils of all their labor. But things go off the rails the night of Caroline's housewarming party. For one thing, her husband is a no show -- until he turns up late with a woman. Is Jason having an affair? The guests are lapping up the drama and Caroline is humiliated. When confronted, Jason leaves and Caroline can't get in touch with him. The topic of divorce is raised. Meanwhile, she takes herself down to a local watering hole, recognizes the bartender as a guy she'd met outside her beach house earlier on, and proceeds to get drunk with him. One thing leads to another and the 43-year-old Caroline has what she believes will be a one night stand with 27-year-old Aidan Callahan. And that's when it all begins...NO SPOILERS
This domestic suspense thriller really takes off and is immediately confounding as the story is told in two voices -- that of Caroline and that of Aidan. It's difficult to assess reliability because the way each describes events is completely different. Is this a torrid love affair or an obsession? The characters are well-developed and given comprehensive backstory, but it's hard to know who is telling the truth. Neither of them is particularly likeable, but the reader is drawn in quickly to all the drama and it became impossible to put this book down so I read it in a single sitting. Absorbing and confusing, the narrative continues with twists and turns that you may or may not see coming. Just go with it, suspend any disbelief, and ride along for the final revelations that make complete sense in retrospect. I really liked the writing style and the shifting points of view, especially when the police become involved and interject their own commentary.
I heard recently that this is to be made into a movie and I can't wait to see it! I enjoyed this one and see "Summer Blockbuster" written all over it. If you like your charcters honest and straight forward, this is not the book for you!
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the e-book to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre -- domestic suspense/drama
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
The Arrangement by Robyn Harding
They agreed -- no strings attached. So how did "The Arrangement" end in murder?
Natalie Murphy leaves her stifling hometown of Blaine, Washington, for the glamorous life as a student attending the Manhattan School of Visual Arts. She's talented and naive but broke -- with annoying roommates who are just about ready to kick her out of the shared apartment. Then she gets to know a fellow student, Ava, who is living in a penthouse in Chelsea and who has lots of nice things. What she learns -- Ava is a "Sugar Baby" and goes on "dates" with rich men. That's how she gets her money. It's not long before Natalie sets up her profile and agrees to her first "meeting" with a prospective "Daddy." Of course she doesn't intend to have sex with one of those decrepit, gross old men. There are rules! But then she meets Gabe Turnmill and everything changes. Natalie is loving her new lifestyle even if she sometimes feels that she is little better than a prostitute. After all, Gabe really cares about her and they are developing a "relationship." What Natalie doesn't know is that Gabe is very married and intends to stay that way. When he tries to break it off, Natalie's fuse is blown and things spiral completely out of control. NO SPOILERS.
This was a very compelling book that kept me glued to the pages as I rapidly raced to the end without leaving my chair. The writing is good, the story is chilling and the tension immense as the reader anticipates the very bad thing that is probably going to happen. Along the way, I found myself almost yelling at Natalie to "GET REAL" and had to remind myself she's barely 20 something and remembering what girls of that age are like -- otherwise I would have found some of the events a bit more implausible and unrealistic. Not knowing anything myself about the world of paid escorts, I could see how a young innocent could be drawn in through their own ignorance and naïveté. I very much enjoyed the book though I'm not sure I was all that pleased with the last couple of chapters and the resolution after all. Regardless, I will be recommending this intense suspense novel with all of its angst and drama. It's a sordid, sorry tale with a warning.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery/Scout Press for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - domestic suspense
Natalie Murphy leaves her stifling hometown of Blaine, Washington, for the glamorous life as a student attending the Manhattan School of Visual Arts. She's talented and naive but broke -- with annoying roommates who are just about ready to kick her out of the shared apartment. Then she gets to know a fellow student, Ava, who is living in a penthouse in Chelsea and who has lots of nice things. What she learns -- Ava is a "Sugar Baby" and goes on "dates" with rich men. That's how she gets her money. It's not long before Natalie sets up her profile and agrees to her first "meeting" with a prospective "Daddy." Of course she doesn't intend to have sex with one of those decrepit, gross old men. There are rules! But then she meets Gabe Turnmill and everything changes. Natalie is loving her new lifestyle even if she sometimes feels that she is little better than a prostitute. After all, Gabe really cares about her and they are developing a "relationship." What Natalie doesn't know is that Gabe is very married and intends to stay that way. When he tries to break it off, Natalie's fuse is blown and things spiral completely out of control. NO SPOILERS.
This was a very compelling book that kept me glued to the pages as I rapidly raced to the end without leaving my chair. The writing is good, the story is chilling and the tension immense as the reader anticipates the very bad thing that is probably going to happen. Along the way, I found myself almost yelling at Natalie to "GET REAL" and had to remind myself she's barely 20 something and remembering what girls of that age are like -- otherwise I would have found some of the events a bit more implausible and unrealistic. Not knowing anything myself about the world of paid escorts, I could see how a young innocent could be drawn in through their own ignorance and naïveté. I very much enjoyed the book though I'm not sure I was all that pleased with the last couple of chapters and the resolution after all. Regardless, I will be recommending this intense suspense novel with all of its angst and drama. It's a sordid, sorry tale with a warning.
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery/Scout Press for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - domestic suspense
Two Victims (DCI Rachel King #2) by Helen Durrant
Two women are found murdered in the trench of a building site. Both were killed by a single gun shot. One of them is identified as a local nurse, Agnes Moore. She's said to have been an angel to young women from the streets who were in distress. The other body is about 2 months older and the police have no leads on who she is or why she was killed. In addition, a teenaged girl on the run is hiding from some very bad people and she may have vital information for DCI Rachel King and her team. There's some evidence of people trafficking through a local seedy club and additional violence ensues as detectives start getting closer to the black heart at the source. NO SPOILERS.
I am really enjoying this fast-paced police procedural/crime thriller series. In this second book, we see more of the same Rachel King with her incredible work ethic and her continued personal issues involving her family life and her past history with local criminal turned profitable businessman, Jed McAteer. Not much more has come out to let us get to know the various other characters any better but this case was quite complicated and interesting. I like when the details and clues are painstakingly found through tedious investigation along with forensic examination and are slowly revealed as they'd be in a real police case. Some of the revelations were surprising. I'm looking forward to reading the third book in this compelling series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the second book in the series that I suggest be read in order.
Genre -- police procedural, crime thriller, female detective
I am really enjoying this fast-paced police procedural/crime thriller series. In this second book, we see more of the same Rachel King with her incredible work ethic and her continued personal issues involving her family life and her past history with local criminal turned profitable businessman, Jed McAteer. Not much more has come out to let us get to know the various other characters any better but this case was quite complicated and interesting. I like when the details and clues are painstakingly found through tedious investigation along with forensic examination and are slowly revealed as they'd be in a real police case. Some of the revelations were surprising. I'm looking forward to reading the third book in this compelling series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the second book in the series that I suggest be read in order.
Genre -- police procedural, crime thriller, female detective
Monday, July 22, 2019
Next Victim (DCI Rachel King #1) by Helen H. Durrant
Rachel King is a DCI with the serious crime squad based in Ancoats. She commands a team for east Manchester CID and this is the first in a new crime thriller series.
A young gay man is found tortured to death in the canal. He was young, blonde and beautiful. When he's identified as Oliver Frodshom, some connections are made to a local hardware supplier and leads to questions about the nearby land. In addition, Oliver is known to a friend of Rachel's daughter. Alice Brough was angry with Oliver after a prank he played on her -- pretended to be her long lost twin brother, Alfie. Is Alice somehow responsible for Oliver's death? As Rachel King and her team investigate the associations indicated by forensics, another body is found and the two murders seem to be the work of a serial psychopath. The motive remains unclear and the detectives are convinced that the hardware supplier must be involved somehow -- until... But wait, there's even more -- it seems that Rachel King has a past lover, Jed McAteer, whose name is synonymous with local crime boss. Rachel's association with this man could ruin her career but it seems that his criminal history keeps coming up. And Jed knows Rachel's secret. Lots going on in this book, but NO SPOILERS.
I think I'm really going to enjoy this fast-paced series as the characters develop. Rachel King is a workaholic with little time for her teenaged daughters and her ex husband, Alan. Her relationship with Jed will definitely prove complicating and interesting since she's in the police and he's a villain. The other team members have been introduced and I'm looking forward to learning more about each of them as well. I'm luck to have the second book queued up to read next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the first in a new series featuring DCI Rachel King and I plan to read in order.
Genre - crime thriller, detectives, police procedural
A young gay man is found tortured to death in the canal. He was young, blonde and beautiful. When he's identified as Oliver Frodshom, some connections are made to a local hardware supplier and leads to questions about the nearby land. In addition, Oliver is known to a friend of Rachel's daughter. Alice Brough was angry with Oliver after a prank he played on her -- pretended to be her long lost twin brother, Alfie. Is Alice somehow responsible for Oliver's death? As Rachel King and her team investigate the associations indicated by forensics, another body is found and the two murders seem to be the work of a serial psychopath. The motive remains unclear and the detectives are convinced that the hardware supplier must be involved somehow -- until... But wait, there's even more -- it seems that Rachel King has a past lover, Jed McAteer, whose name is synonymous with local crime boss. Rachel's association with this man could ruin her career but it seems that his criminal history keeps coming up. And Jed knows Rachel's secret. Lots going on in this book, but NO SPOILERS.
I think I'm really going to enjoy this fast-paced series as the characters develop. Rachel King is a workaholic with little time for her teenaged daughters and her ex husband, Alan. Her relationship with Jed will definitely prove complicating and interesting since she's in the police and he's a villain. The other team members have been introduced and I'm looking forward to learning more about each of them as well. I'm luck to have the second book queued up to read next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Joffe Books for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the first in a new series featuring DCI Rachel King and I plan to read in order.
Genre - crime thriller, detectives, police procedural
Sunday, July 21, 2019
Hideaway by Nicole Lundrigan
We all want the same thing -- "to be out in the open. To be regarded. To be seen."
Gloria and her two children live together alone in the house on Pinchkiss Circle ever since Telly, husband and father, took off to live with another woman. Rowan is nearly 13 and is big brother to seven-year-old Maisy when events in their home and lives turn from bad to worse. Gloria Janes likes to keep things up for appearance sake, and goes to great lengths to make sure that her children understand that she is in control -- of them, of their daily existence, and of the truth they tell. Manipulative and narcissistic, Gloria uses praise and punishment to create an atmosphere of total subjugation in her children. Or else. When Rowan vanishes after being locked out of the house one night, the repercussions of his time away with the mentally ill Carl have far-reaching detrimental effects that no one could have foreseen for the family. NO SPOILERS.
I had a very hard time writing this review. Did I enjoy this book? No, not really. It was a difficult read because of the subject matter (abuse of children) and also because of the severity of Gloria's psychiatric issues. The relentless despair was palpable and frustrating. The tone was depressing and only partially relieved by the somewhat hopeful conclusion. I think readers will need to be in a certain frame of mind to read this and I hope the novel doesn't haunt my dreams. I realize that there is a significant issue socially in our world with how mental illness is recognized and addressed. I have no answers but don't feel confident at all that we are headed in the right direction for protection and treatment. I was tempted a time or two to mark this as DNF, but I kept going and I'm glad I finished. The imagination and quality of the writing in the book was excellent and rang true as the voices of Rowan and Maisy alternately narrated their story. I did read it in one sitting and am now taking a deep cleansing breath.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - dark and deeply disturbing novel of a family in crisis
Gloria and her two children live together alone in the house on Pinchkiss Circle ever since Telly, husband and father, took off to live with another woman. Rowan is nearly 13 and is big brother to seven-year-old Maisy when events in their home and lives turn from bad to worse. Gloria Janes likes to keep things up for appearance sake, and goes to great lengths to make sure that her children understand that she is in control -- of them, of their daily existence, and of the truth they tell. Manipulative and narcissistic, Gloria uses praise and punishment to create an atmosphere of total subjugation in her children. Or else. When Rowan vanishes after being locked out of the house one night, the repercussions of his time away with the mentally ill Carl have far-reaching detrimental effects that no one could have foreseen for the family. NO SPOILERS.
I had a very hard time writing this review. Did I enjoy this book? No, not really. It was a difficult read because of the subject matter (abuse of children) and also because of the severity of Gloria's psychiatric issues. The relentless despair was palpable and frustrating. The tone was depressing and only partially relieved by the somewhat hopeful conclusion. I think readers will need to be in a certain frame of mind to read this and I hope the novel doesn't haunt my dreams. I realize that there is a significant issue socially in our world with how mental illness is recognized and addressed. I have no answers but don't feel confident at all that we are headed in the right direction for protection and treatment. I was tempted a time or two to mark this as DNF, but I kept going and I'm glad I finished. The imagination and quality of the writing in the book was excellent and rang true as the voices of Rowan and Maisy alternately narrated their story. I did read it in one sitting and am now taking a deep cleansing breath.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - dark and deeply disturbing novel of a family in crisis
Saturday, July 20, 2019
Someone We Know by Shari Lapena
"We all wear masks. We all have something to hide at one point or another."
Aylesford, a charming city in New York's Hudson Valley -- close to the Catskill Mountains -- is a "congenial place to live." Until a quiet neighborhood is rocked by the news of a murder of one of the residents. In addition, a teenager has confessed to sneaking into homes and hacking into owners' computers. What secrets lie hidden behind the charming facade of this sleepy suburbia?
The dead woman, Amanda Pierce, was reported missing by her husband. We all know the police usually figure him to be the number one suspect. But in this particular case there is no shortage of possible perpetrators as more shady information is discovered by Detectives Webb and Moen. In this hotbed enclave that sounds more like Peyton Place (I'm dating myself here) than idyllic haven, the neighbors seem to have a lot to hide. As tension mounts and suspicions simmer and details are confirmed, the truth is revealed. It always comes out in the end. NO SPOILERS.
This was a very fast-paced and entertaining book that I could not put down until I read it, in one sitting, cover to cover. The characters are a fascinating mix and their believability is compelling as each is put under a microscope. I could not wait to find out the surprising conclusion as I analyzed the clues while the narrative perspective shifted between the characters in this drama. Excellent writing propelled me forward as the focus narrowed. Who did what? Another summer blockbuster no doubt and again, one that should be slated for a television deal for sure. I enjoy novels by this author as she does a wonderful job examining what appears to be a nice little neighborhood, but isn't.
Thank you to the publisher, Pamela Dorman Books/Viking for the e-book ARC to read and review. This is another absorbing and fun novel of domestic suspense and I can't wait to read Shari Lapena's next book!
This is a standalone and not part of any series.
Genre - domestic suspense
Aylesford, a charming city in New York's Hudson Valley -- close to the Catskill Mountains -- is a "congenial place to live." Until a quiet neighborhood is rocked by the news of a murder of one of the residents. In addition, a teenager has confessed to sneaking into homes and hacking into owners' computers. What secrets lie hidden behind the charming facade of this sleepy suburbia?
The dead woman, Amanda Pierce, was reported missing by her husband. We all know the police usually figure him to be the number one suspect. But in this particular case there is no shortage of possible perpetrators as more shady information is discovered by Detectives Webb and Moen. In this hotbed enclave that sounds more like Peyton Place (I'm dating myself here) than idyllic haven, the neighbors seem to have a lot to hide. As tension mounts and suspicions simmer and details are confirmed, the truth is revealed. It always comes out in the end. NO SPOILERS.
This was a very fast-paced and entertaining book that I could not put down until I read it, in one sitting, cover to cover. The characters are a fascinating mix and their believability is compelling as each is put under a microscope. I could not wait to find out the surprising conclusion as I analyzed the clues while the narrative perspective shifted between the characters in this drama. Excellent writing propelled me forward as the focus narrowed. Who did what? Another summer blockbuster no doubt and again, one that should be slated for a television deal for sure. I enjoy novels by this author as she does a wonderful job examining what appears to be a nice little neighborhood, but isn't.
Thank you to the publisher, Pamela Dorman Books/Viking for the e-book ARC to read and review. This is another absorbing and fun novel of domestic suspense and I can't wait to read Shari Lapena's next book!
This is a standalone and not part of any series.
Genre - domestic suspense
Friday, July 19, 2019
The Escape Room by Megan Goldin
What happens when you lose everything -- self-worth, friends, good name, career and livelihood?
A last minute mandatory meeting has been called for the four investment bankers from Standhope and Sons, a top tier firm in New York. It's meant to be a team building exercise as the four face possible retrenchment or perhaps a promotion. When they gather in the lobby of the building lobby -- Vincent de Vries (the boss), Sylvie, Jules and Sam have no idea that they are about to participate in what's meant to be an escape room scenario. But this exercise isn't like any they could have imagined as soon they are locked into an elevator and can only hope to get out alive! With the temperature alternating between stifling heat and extreme cold, with no water or food, no cell service and dwindling batteries, the 4 members of this elite group find some clues that hint at the reason for their imprisonment. Tempers rise, secrets are spilled, and their alliance comes to the breaking point.
NO SPOILERS.
This was a great way to spend an evening. Pure entertainment and a clever plot kept me racing through the pages so that I could read this in one sitting. The characters were intriguing and quite complex giving the narrative a relentless focus as it shifted back and forth in time and perspective. I enjoyed the writing style and the story which kept me guessing as I patted myself on the back for figuring out where it was going while still loving the ride. The conclusion was forgone at one point but highly satisfying. I think this would make a great miniseries or movie! Fast and fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the e-book ARC to read and review. Definitely an author whose work I'll look forward to reading in the future.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - suspense thriller
A last minute mandatory meeting has been called for the four investment bankers from Standhope and Sons, a top tier firm in New York. It's meant to be a team building exercise as the four face possible retrenchment or perhaps a promotion. When they gather in the lobby of the building lobby -- Vincent de Vries (the boss), Sylvie, Jules and Sam have no idea that they are about to participate in what's meant to be an escape room scenario. But this exercise isn't like any they could have imagined as soon they are locked into an elevator and can only hope to get out alive! With the temperature alternating between stifling heat and extreme cold, with no water or food, no cell service and dwindling batteries, the 4 members of this elite group find some clues that hint at the reason for their imprisonment. Tempers rise, secrets are spilled, and their alliance comes to the breaking point.
NO SPOILERS.
This was a great way to spend an evening. Pure entertainment and a clever plot kept me racing through the pages so that I could read this in one sitting. The characters were intriguing and quite complex giving the narrative a relentless focus as it shifted back and forth in time and perspective. I enjoyed the writing style and the story which kept me guessing as I patted myself on the back for figuring out where it was going while still loving the ride. The conclusion was forgone at one point but highly satisfying. I think this would make a great miniseries or movie! Fast and fun.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the e-book ARC to read and review. Definitely an author whose work I'll look forward to reading in the future.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - suspense thriller
Thursday, July 18, 2019
The Girl in the Grave (Beth Adams #1) by Helen Phifer
The body of a young woman is found underneath the coffin of another deceased person during an exhumation. The girl had been dead for weeks and was never reported as missing. Dr. Beth Adams, a forensic pathologist (former A&E physician) is called to do the postmortem. Who used this particular grave as a dumping ground and why? Then, another young woman goes missing and is presumed to be in danger. The police frantically search for clues of where she could have been taken before time runs out and they have another body on their hands.
There are many characters in this introductory novel, but Beth Adams is the main focus. She was damaged both physically and psychologically in a previous assault by a man she trusted and has become quite reclusive and prefers isolation at her highly secure home on the lakefront. Her best friend, DS Josh Walker, rescued Beth during the attack that changed her life, and he's leading the investigation into the missing women. Despite the attempt to dangle extraneous clues and red herrings, I suspected the identity of the perpetrator early on. I didn't really get too attached to Beth and the "romance" angle seemed so obvious. The reader may learn to like the characters as the series develops, so I'd give this another chance with a second book read. I just don't see some of the events, and Beth's participation in the police investigation, as realistic or believable. The author has left quite a few loose ends in the plot with development potential.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the first in a new series.
Genre - police and detectives, murder, crime thriller
There are many characters in this introductory novel, but Beth Adams is the main focus. She was damaged both physically and psychologically in a previous assault by a man she trusted and has become quite reclusive and prefers isolation at her highly secure home on the lakefront. Her best friend, DS Josh Walker, rescued Beth during the attack that changed her life, and he's leading the investigation into the missing women. Despite the attempt to dangle extraneous clues and red herrings, I suspected the identity of the perpetrator early on. I didn't really get too attached to Beth and the "romance" angle seemed so obvious. The reader may learn to like the characters as the series develops, so I'd give this another chance with a second book read. I just don't see some of the events, and Beth's participation in the police investigation, as realistic or believable. The author has left quite a few loose ends in the plot with development potential.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the first in a new series.
Genre - police and detectives, murder, crime thriller
Wednesday, July 17, 2019
Child's Play (DI Kim Stone #11) by Angela Marsons
DI Kim Stone is back in this 11th book of the series. She and her team are investigating a set of murders that seems to relate to child geniuses. In each case, the victims were killed by a knife while propped against the backdrop of some sort of child's game -- a swing, a hopscotch grid, and a board game. What twisted soul has conceived of this and why? Meanwhile, Penn is back with his old colleagues as the court date for a murder is set on the docket. With witness testimony evaporating, Penn becomes convinced that they may not have arrested the real killer. Can the detectives of the West Midland Police find the answers they seek?
This series just keeps getting better and I'm always happy to return to the scene with these characters who are so well known and loved. I enjoy the police procedural aspects as much as I do learning more about each of the characters as individuals apart from their jobs. The writing is excellent and the pace keeps me turning the pages to a satisfying conclusion. There are still some loose plot ends from previous books and I'm always glad to see one resolved. Can't wait for the next book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. Keep them coming!
This is book #11 in a series and I feel that the books should be read, from the beginning, in order.
Genre - detectives, crime thriller, police procedural
This series just keeps getting better and I'm always happy to return to the scene with these characters who are so well known and loved. I enjoy the police procedural aspects as much as I do learning more about each of the characters as individuals apart from their jobs. The writing is excellent and the pace keeps me turning the pages to a satisfying conclusion. There are still some loose plot ends from previous books and I'm always glad to see one resolved. Can't wait for the next book!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for this e-book ARC to read and review. Keep them coming!
This is book #11 in a series and I feel that the books should be read, from the beginning, in order.
Genre - detectives, crime thriller, police procedural
Friday, July 12, 2019
The Unlucky Ones (DI Jessica Daniel #14) by Kerry Wilkinson
As Easter approaches in Manchester, DI Jessica Daniel and her fellow detectives are busy investigating a series of deaths. At first glance, these don't appear to be murders, but Jessica finds an unexpected angle -- all of the victims had previously survived life-threatening situations. Henry Taylor was hit by a car, Mark Stanley drowned, Lucy fell, and Tiffany McDonnell died in a fire. The deaths don't seem to be connected until Jessica finds out about a woman, Francine, who hands out flyers talking about "God's will." Is Francine somehow responsible for seeing that these men and women aren't allowed a second chance? It seems a far reach, but the investigation proceeds. Although Jessica is focused on Francine, she's also busy trying to figure out why the formerly crime-ridden Lees Estate has suddenly become a model community. NO SPOILERS
Another complicated case with Jessica following her instincts and getting the job done with the help of her colleagues and friends. Jessica still has some issues in her personal life that are ongoing and Caroline makes an appearance along with a surprising reveal. The whole "team" thing wasn't as strong as usual in this book, but it's the 14th in series, so the reader is familiar with each member though I enjoy a lot more detail about them than was present here. The writing is good as always and I'm looking forward to the next installment. I firmly believe that these books should be read from the beginning, in order.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is #14 in a series and should be read in order.
Genre - police procedural, crime thriller
Another complicated case with Jessica following her instincts and getting the job done with the help of her colleagues and friends. Jessica still has some issues in her personal life that are ongoing and Caroline makes an appearance along with a surprising reveal. The whole "team" thing wasn't as strong as usual in this book, but it's the 14th in series, so the reader is familiar with each member though I enjoy a lot more detail about them than was present here. The writing is good as always and I'm looking forward to the next installment. I firmly believe that these books should be read from the beginning, in order.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is #14 in a series and should be read in order.
Genre - police procedural, crime thriller
Monday, July 8, 2019
The Liar's House (DI GIna Harte #4) by Carla Kovach
DI Gina Harte is faced with a complicated case involving a missing woman from 12 years ago, a recently murdered woman, a woman who was brutally attacked and another who has apparently been abducted. The only commonality among them seems to be a swapping club where the members are apparently all barely known to one another. Harte is alarmed to find that her ex brother-in-law is part of the swingers group -- does he have anything to do with these crimes? The team works hard following the few clues and the red herrings to find the perpetrator. Meanwhile, Gina can't get rid of a Tinder date gone off the rails. NO SPOILERS.
The usual crowd is back and Gina Harte is still fighting her feelings for her boss since they are no longer in a relationship. I hope those two can get together despite the workplace issue. The other team members need a bit more development to cement their working partnership appeal. The pace is fast and the plot is entertaining. I enjoy this series and look forward to the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is #4 in a series and I urge all to read the books in order.
Genre - police procedural, mystery
The usual crowd is back and Gina Harte is still fighting her feelings for her boss since they are no longer in a relationship. I hope those two can get together despite the workplace issue. The other team members need a bit more development to cement their working partnership appeal. The pace is fast and the plot is entertaining. I enjoy this series and look forward to the next book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is #4 in a series and I urge all to read the books in order.
Genre - police procedural, mystery
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Lock Every Door by Riley Sager
When Jules takes a dream job that turns into a nightmare...
Who wouldn't take the job as an apartment sitter in the luxurious Bartholomew? Homeless, heartbroken and broke Jules Larsen doesn't hesitate when she finds that she will earn $12,000 in just 3 months! Surrounded by opulence and fine things in 12A, the unit she's assigned, Jules can't believe her luck. At the back of her mind, and because of the concern expressed by her best friend, Chloe, Jules can't help but wonder if it's all too good to be true. Quite soon after she's settled and living in the private residence, Jules meets Ingrid and the two of them find that the Bartholomew is a very scary place to live. When Ingrid vanishes, Jules discovers that behind the walls of this stately facade are secrets that just might kill her. NO SPOILERS.
This was a fun, fast read full of twists and turns that kept me rapidly turning the pages eager to find out the secrets. The writing is good and the characters interesting with the typical stereotyping separating good guys from bad ones. Although I was rooting for Jules, I secretly had this teeny, tiny desire...well, I won't say more. The book provided me with a couple of hours of pure entertainment so I could leave my reality check at the door.
I understand this book may make its way to a television series at some point in the future. I'm looking forward to that and future novels by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House DUTTON for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - mystery, suspense
Who wouldn't take the job as an apartment sitter in the luxurious Bartholomew? Homeless, heartbroken and broke Jules Larsen doesn't hesitate when she finds that she will earn $12,000 in just 3 months! Surrounded by opulence and fine things in 12A, the unit she's assigned, Jules can't believe her luck. At the back of her mind, and because of the concern expressed by her best friend, Chloe, Jules can't help but wonder if it's all too good to be true. Quite soon after she's settled and living in the private residence, Jules meets Ingrid and the two of them find that the Bartholomew is a very scary place to live. When Ingrid vanishes, Jules discovers that behind the walls of this stately facade are secrets that just might kill her. NO SPOILERS.
This was a fun, fast read full of twists and turns that kept me rapidly turning the pages eager to find out the secrets. The writing is good and the characters interesting with the typical stereotyping separating good guys from bad ones. Although I was rooting for Jules, I secretly had this teeny, tiny desire...well, I won't say more. The book provided me with a couple of hours of pure entertainment so I could leave my reality check at the door.
I understand this book may make its way to a television series at some point in the future. I'm looking forward to that and future novels by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Random House DUTTON for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is a standalone and is not part of any series.
Genre - mystery, suspense
Friday, July 5, 2019
Murder in the Fens (#4 Tara Thorpe) by Clare Chase
Julie Cooper, a student a St. Oswald's College, is found dead in the fens with crushed flowers in her pocket and indications that a ring had been removed from her right-hand ring finger. A crime of passion? DC Tara Thorpe and her team at the Cambridge Constabulary are on the case.
First things first -- the police want to know everything they can about Julie and have no shortage of potential suspects in her murder. A supposed BFF who copies Julie in every way -- dresses like her and engages in the same political activism as Julie -- Bella Chadwick -- who seems to be lying even as she has nothing significant to report, but does lead the team to Julie's ex boyfriend, Stuart Gilmour, who ticks a lot of boxes. And then there is, "John", the academic whom Julie was supposedly helping with a research project. Oh, and the fellow at the college, Julie's tutor, Lucien Balfour, who ticks all of DC Thorpe's boxes for being a total creeper. But the investigation is just warming up, frustration with the progress of figuring out the crime mounts, and the various members of the team are dealing with personal issues when a second death occurs. NO SPOILERS.
I do enjoy this series. I like Tara most of the time but I don't find her that believable as a character. I know she carries a torch for Blake (having read the previous 3 books in the series) and he has a lot of issues to work out before they could possibly consummate their romance. The setting as described always lends an authentic touch to the story and I relish all those details. I don't typically have a problem figuring out "whodunit" in fairly quickly when reading a mystery but I do like the slow reveal as the climax is reached. The writing is good and the pace is fast. I can't wait for the next book in the Tara Thorpe series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the fourth book in the series and I recommend it be read in order. I've read them all to date.
Genre - police procedural, cozy mystery
First things first -- the police want to know everything they can about Julie and have no shortage of potential suspects in her murder. A supposed BFF who copies Julie in every way -- dresses like her and engages in the same political activism as Julie -- Bella Chadwick -- who seems to be lying even as she has nothing significant to report, but does lead the team to Julie's ex boyfriend, Stuart Gilmour, who ticks a lot of boxes. And then there is, "John", the academic whom Julie was supposedly helping with a research project. Oh, and the fellow at the college, Julie's tutor, Lucien Balfour, who ticks all of DC Thorpe's boxes for being a total creeper. But the investigation is just warming up, frustration with the progress of figuring out the crime mounts, and the various members of the team are dealing with personal issues when a second death occurs. NO SPOILERS.
I do enjoy this series. I like Tara most of the time but I don't find her that believable as a character. I know she carries a torch for Blake (having read the previous 3 books in the series) and he has a lot of issues to work out before they could possibly consummate their romance. The setting as described always lends an authentic touch to the story and I relish all those details. I don't typically have a problem figuring out "whodunit" in fairly quickly when reading a mystery but I do like the slow reveal as the climax is reached. The writing is good and the pace is fast. I can't wait for the next book in the Tara Thorpe series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
This is the fourth book in the series and I recommend it be read in order. I've read them all to date.
Genre - police procedural, cozy mystery
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)