Right from the start, Gravewater Lake had me under its thrall. With a well-plotted amnesia-centered premise that contained not one but two timelines tRight from the start, Gravewater Lake had me under its thrall. With a well-plotted amnesia-centered premise that contained not one but two timelines that both kept me riveted to the pages, I thought I knew exactly what was going to happen. Little did I know that the expertly crafted twists would shock me but good. So much so, in fact, that I guarantee that you’ll be just as surprised by the multiple jaw-dropping turns of events. After all, the reveals were so deftly woven into the plot that they not only felt like utter perfection, but they had me rethinking everything I had already read up to that point in the story.
The characters and the setting—which felt like yet another crafty persona—were easily the best piece of the puzzle, however. From a handful of thoroughly suspicious individuals to a woman with no memories at all, I felt myself being pulled into their lives as if I was a fly on the wall. The setting, though, was what won me over hook, line, and sinker. With an unsettling atmosphere, vivid descriptions, and an eerie lake at the center of the action, I was riveted from the very first word. All I can say is that you’re going to want the lights on before you dive into a plot that gave me all of the chills and thrills that I could want in a story.
The only thing that didn’t hit quite right was the conclusion. Decidedly over-the-top as well as not really fitting in with the rest of the novel, it not only came out of left field—it left my expectations demolished into little, itty, bitty pieces. While part of that was definitely right up my alley, the big, giant twist that introduced the new direction somehow left me a little let down. Don’t get me wrong, once I suspended all disbelief and returned to the pages, I ate up every word with a very large grin—even if it was ultimately pretty far-fetched.
All said and done, I now completely understand why my friends and colleagues with Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse have been raving about this one for ages. A tale of psychological suspense that came complete with flashbacks, cliffhanger chapters, and plenty of lies to uncover, this locked room mystery of sorts kept me guessing for sure. So if you love a creepy, old mansion, unique twists, and a multilayered story, this is most definitely the book for you. After all, it was well-written, immersive, and clever. My one piece of advice? Don’t trust a soul in this unputdownable novel. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
She wakes on the shore of a remote lake in the middle of the night, freezing and afraid. With no memory of who she is or how she got there, she stumbles frantically toward the lights of a house. The handsome stranger who lives there is shocked to see a woman on his doorstep and takes her in.
Trapped by a winter storm and cut off from the outside world, she starts to suspect that all is not right with the house on Gravewater Lake—or the man, who says his name is Gregg. Because there are whispers in the night, and phantom footsteps pace the halls. Is Gregg hiding a dark secret, or is she losing her mind?
As she struggles to remember her past and make sense of her present, she soon discovers that people are not always who they seem, and the truth might be more deadly than she could ever have imagined.
Thank you to A.M. Strong, Sonya Sargent, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for my complimentary physical and digital copies. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 1, 2025
Content warning: gaslighting, stalking, being drugged, murder, knife and gun violence, mention of: financial crimes...more
I simply could not get enough of the unbelievably twisty, original plot within Dead Money. From the well-developed protagonist who I couldn’t help butI simply could not get enough of the unbelievably twisty, original plot within Dead Money. From the well-developed protagonist who I couldn’t help but root for to the tech world milieu, even the length of this novel didn’t put me off even the slightest. You see, there simply was no seeing behind the deftly woven curtain. Thanks to a finely layered timeline with dozens of flashbacks, the stage was set to deliver one truly earth-shattering twist. One that even I—a well-versed armchair sleuthing sleuth—couldn’t put together before the perfectly timed revelation. With definite Hitchcockian flare, they both came out of left field but also felt perfectly teed up once they were revealed.
The setting and characterization were also simply sublime. Taking place in Silicon Valley with a cast of mostly tech bros, it felt vividly true-to-life and gave me the feel of living out what I see on the news. At the same time, the subplot featuring Mackenzie laid the groundwork for the upcoming twists without revealing too much. Between the two timelines, the plot picked up steam with undeniable ease. So much so, in fact, that I was shocked to learn that this was Kerr’s debut novel. Somewhere between crime fiction and thriller, he managed to spin a tale infused with both unbridled intrigue and ratcheting suspense. The best bit, however, was easily the unguessable conclusion. I mean, I did not see that one coming at all.
I do have to mention, though, that I did have to pay close attention to the web of secrets and lies. Along with a somewhat tech-heavy premise that required some level of knowledge, this was not a book that you could read with only half of your brain. That, of course, wasn’t a problem since I found myself riveted to the pages from the very first word. It was so good, in fact, that I had a hard time putting it down and wholeheartedly wished that I could have ignored all of my adulting until it was over.
All said and done, I found this book addictive, compelling, and perfectly plotted. Set up ideally for a much-wanted sequel, I’m crossing my fingers and toes that it will come into being. Not only that, but I’d be over the moon if this became a movie one day soon. With all of the drama and action that Hollywood could want, it would most definitely be just as big of a hit as the novel itself is sure to become. So if you’re looking for a book with a compulsively readable, complex plot and a badass heroine that will blow you away, you need not search any further—you’ve found it right here. After all, it kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
In her job as unofficial “problem solver” for Silicon Valley’s most ruthless venture capitalist, Mackenzie Clyde’s gotten used to playing for high stakes. Even if none of those tech-bro millions she’s so good at wrangling ever make it into her pockets.
But this time, she’s in way over her head—or so it seems.
The lightning-rod CEO of tech’s hottest startup has just been murdered, leaving behind billions in “dead money” frozen in his will. As the company’s chief investor, Mackenzie’s boss has a fortune on the line—and with the police treading water, it’s up to Mackenzie to step up and resolve things, fast.
Mackenzie’s a lawyer, not a detective. Cracking this fiendishly clever killing, with its list of suspects that reads like a who’s-who of Valley power players, should be way out of her league.
Except that Mackenzie’s used to being underestimated. In fact, she’s counting on it.
Because the way she sees it, this isn’t an investigation. It’s an opportunity. And she’ll do anything it takes to seize it.
Anything at all.
Thank you to Jakob Kerr and Random House - Bantam for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
After reading and loving Sagit Schwartz’s debut novel, Since She’s Been Gone, I was excited to dive into her new short story, Broken Threads. At only After reading and loving Sagit Schwartz’s debut novel, Since She’s Been Gone, I was excited to dive into her new short story, Broken Threads. At only 39 pages in length, it was a quick, easy read that left me with both chills and a gigantic smile on my face. In the past, I’ve found that short stories and I usually don’t mix. Most—if not all—tend to lack any depth to the plot. Well, I’m happy to report that this dynamite thriller was that rarer than rare exception to the rule. Concise but also fully fleshed out, the plot was addictive and unputdownable for this thriller lover. Not only was the protagonist someone to cheer for, but her foil had me shaking with anger from the moment I met her. Between the two, this original premise had everything I wanted in a mind-blowing short story—up to and including a grin-triggering twist right there at the end. All in all, Ms. Schwartz has now made me even more excited for her next much anticipated novel. I only wish that she’d turn this one into a full length thriller first as I’m sure it would be a page-turning stunner. So if you have an hour to spare and need or want a guaranteed five star read, grab a copy of this one as it’s not only brilliant and shrewd, but a story that I couldn’t have loved even the tiniest bit more. Rating of 5+ stars.
BLURB:
Clare is an out-of-work technical writer after AI takes over her job. Now left with only enough money to pay one month’s worth of rent and no way to earn a living, she has the brilliant idea to get her influencer neighbor to sell her unsold novel to her hundreds of thousands of followers. Amber, however, has a better idea. Pretend that she wrote it so that it takes off even faster. While she’s not thrilled with Amber’s suggestion, Clare is almost 100% broke, so she goes along with the idea. Needless to say, things go awry. To learn more, grab your very own copy for only $0.99 on Amazon ASAP!
Thank you to Sagit Schwartz for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I don’t know how Megan Collins does it, but yet again she’s blown me away. Right from the attention-grabbing start of Cross My Heart, the escalating pI don’t know how Megan Collins does it, but yet again she’s blown me away. Right from the attention-grabbing start of Cross My Heart, the escalating pace easily pulled me in deep. Told through a mixed media format that including dual POVs, the deftly plotted storyline held one heck of a mind-blowing twist that quite literally had me uttering “Wait, what?!” as my jaw hit the floor. You know the kind where you don’t see even an iota of a glimmer of a hint? Well, this was one of those. From there, my reading speed rapidly increased until I had to restrain myself from skimming as I raced through the adrenaline-pumping climax right up until the soul-satisfying conclusion that left one heck of a smile on my face.
The characters were just as dazzling as the stunner of a plot, but Rosie easily took center stage as the best of the best. From her “Rosie-colored glasses” to her expertly crafted character arc, her behavior made me want to shake her but good while also understanding her just the littlest bit. After all, how many of us haven’t been guilty of borrowing those glasses—especially when it comes to love and hope for the future? I’ve surely looked over a shocking red flag or two in the past. Through Rosie’s behavior, Collins created a persona that felt both realistic and over-the-top in a true-to-life way. It also didn’t hurt that all of the supporting characters bowled me over as well.
There was only one piece to this psychological thriller that could have been expanded just a bit. You see, I would’ve loved to meet Morgan in the flesh, so to speak. While he had a definite purpose, a last chapter filling in the answers to my few outstanding questions would have been the cherry on top. That’s not to say that not having his unadulterated perspective took away from this novel. Oh no. It was deftly spun perfection beneath one gorgeous cover.
All in all, Ms. Collins has most definitely done it again. With a well-developed plot, an original narrative style, and a deliciously unhinged protagonist, I was utterly hypnotized from beginning to end. And thanks to a dynamite premise that left me second-guessing everything after that first huge, breathtaking reveal, my brain was left playing catch up on a whirlwind ride of never-ending suspense. So if it’s not already obvious, I highly recommend this mind-bending, poignant, unpredictable novel. Crazy with a capital C, you won’t be able to put this book down as you race to discover the who, what, how, and why in this masterful whodunnit. Or whydunnit? Or howdunnit? Or just maybe a bit of all of the above. Rating of 5 stars.
Thank you to Megan Collins, Atria Books, and NetGalley for my complimentary physical and digital copies. All opinions are my own.
Have you ever fallen head first into a book and lost track of time? Well, that’s exactly what happened to me with The Family Inside. From the dark, twHave you ever fallen head first into a book and lost track of time? Well, that’s exactly what happened to me with The Family Inside. From the dark, twisty plot to the deliciously dysfunctional family, I was wrapped up in the story from the very first word. Those weren’t the only stellar pieces to this original premise, however. After all, the creepy setting and almost horror-esque feel made the house come alive more and more with each page. So much so, in fact, that it felt like yet another character with its strange noises, peeling wallpaper, and odd, dusty relics. These facts alone proved the point that while Katie Garner’s debut novel, The Night It Ended, was beyond good, she more than outdid herself this time around.
The characters were easily the special sauce to this unputdownable psychological thriller. Well-developed and thoroughly twisted, I couldn’t anticipate what any of them were up to no matter what I tried. And while they weren’t exactly realistic, it was all for the benefit of some dynamite drama that ended in a series of increasingly gasp-inducing twists, turning the entire plot on its head. I’m not exaggerating. At the start of the novel, I began to get rather annoying thinking that I knew exactly where the plot was going to go. Not only was I wrong, but I was shocked into silence by each and every reveal. Considering my insatiable appetite for all things suspense, this rarely happens to me so I was utterly floored.
As for the plot itself, it was told via the dual POVs of Iris and Ellory. Thanks to a well-plotted storyline, which was framed to perfection, I was kept me on the back foot throughout. Add in the flawlessly constructed unreliable narrator and plenty of long-buried secrets, and it just couldn’t have been better. I mean, even the feel of the book was divine with the atmospheric air and layers of mysterious pasts to unravel. But it was the combination of all of the above that made this book into the utter perfection that it ultimately was. Undeniably clever, psychologically acute, and a prime example of Ms. Garner’s prowess, this is one book that you won’t be able to put down until you hit the last shocking word. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Since her husband’s unsolved murder three years ago, Iris Blodgett’s life has unraveled. Awash in grief and buried in debt, she can’t pay her mortgage—and now that she’s lost her job, she has no idea how she’ll provide for her unruly teenage daughter, Ellory.
Facing eviction, Iris turns to her new beau, prominent architect Hugh Smoll, for a shoulder to cry on. But the seemingly perfect Hugh offers her something more: an invitation to move in to his mother’s centuries-old mansion while he renovates the property.
It seems like the perfect solution, but when Iris and Ellory arrive at Ravencliff, the family inside isn’t quite what they expected. Iris didn’t even know Hugh had siblings, much less that they’d all be living together.
With repairs underway, the house gives up its dark secrets one by one. Before long, Iris unearths a chilling family history—and the terrifying reason she and Ellory were invited in the first place…
Thank you to Katie Garner, HTP Books, and The Hive for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 28, 2025
Content warning: runaway child, breaking and entering, burglary, child birth, violence, death of a husband, mention of: heart disease/attack...more
GASP! O.M.G! YES! The Writer deserves three whole exclamatory phrases thanks to those twisty last few chapters! The definition of fast-paced and propuGASP! O.M.G! YES! The Writer deserves three whole exclamatory phrases thanks to those twisty last few chapters! The definition of fast-paced and propulsive, this dynamite crime thriller hit just the right balance of dark, suspenseful, and twisted. From the epic game of cat-and-mouse where I couldn’t see the full board to the multiple players who were working at full steam to outthink the others, I was constantly trying to figure it all out. No matter how hard I tried, though, I just couldn’t align the pieces in time. You see, every moment that I got close, a mind-blowing twist would arrive on the scene and pull the rug right out from under my feet.
I do have to say that some of the books that I’ve read by Patterson in the past have had a definite formulaic feel. This time around there was absolutely none of that thanks to the schemes, twists, and lies. Even better, however, were the inclusion of Patterson’s trademark short cliffhanger chapters and multiple POVs. Keeping everything moving with a bunch of personas that ran the gamut from downright despicable to *just* morally gray, there might not have been someone to root for, but I was riveted just the same. After all, while there was far more going on below the surface than I ever imagined, it was so well-plotted that it flowed with utter precision.
All said and done, this writing duo can do no wrong in my humble opinion. With dual timelines on top of the multiple POVs, I can only imagine the brilliance of these two unstoppable minds. Add in the mixed media format and it was an out-and-out home run. You see, thanks to a whodunnit plot mixed with a spine-tingling thriller vibe, my head was absolutely spinning by the time I hit the series of earth-shattering twists in the last couple of pages. Clever and complex, Patterson and Barker had me staying up way too late just to finish this novel. So be sure to run out and grab a copy ASAP as you’re going to love this one to bits. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
NYPD Detective Declan Shaw gets a call: How fast can you get to the Beresford building on Central Park West?
In the tower apartment, Shaw finds a woman waiting for him. She’s covered in blood. A body is lying dead on the floor of the luxurious living room.
Every book in the apartment’s floor-to-ceiling shelves is by the same author: bestselling true-crime writer Denise Morrow.
"This is you?" Shaw asks the woman. "You're a writer?"
Only one person knows the ending to this story. Is it the victim or the killer?
Thank you to James Patterson, J.D. Barker, and Little, Brown for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
A locked room murder mystery with some dark, unguessable twists, You Are Fatally Invited turned the Agatha Christie-esque motif on its head. With an eA locked room murder mystery with some dark, unguessable twists, You Are Fatally Invited turned the Agatha Christie-esque motif on its head. With an enigmatic host and an isolated setting, it had an underlying mystery core that blended beautifully with a twisted thriller vibe. From the somewhat gorier deaths to themes that made me sit and think, Pliego took Christie’s building blocks and elevated them to outdo even the Grand Dame herself. The best piece of the puzzle, however, was easily the metafiction premise. After all, the cast was packed full of writers along with snippets from their stories. Along with the handful of my most adored tropes, it was an undeniable home run no ifs, ands, or buts.
The plot was—in no uncertain terms—a demonstration in how to construct a winning novel. With short chapters, ever-ratcheting foreboding, and a storyline plotted to perfection, it kept me on the edge of my seat and frantically turning the pages. You see, Pliego took the generic Golden Age framework and added her own subtle flair. From the explosive, adrenaline-fueled climax to the two-part dénouement, there wasn’t a chance of me putting the pieces together in time to outpace the timely reveals. And let me tell you, I tried my best at the whole armchair sleuthing thing. Sadly—or should I say happily—for me, despite plenty of well-disguised hints, the red herrings ultimately did me in.
The characters themselves were simply sublime. Running the gamut from utterly suspicious to root-for-able in the extreme, I reveled in the one I loved to hate just as much as I delighted in the ultimate heroine. Realistic, easily envisioned, and complete with true-to-life flaws, despite the fact that the book required a definite need to suspend all disbelief, this cast came alive more with each page. So much so, in fact, that I’ll be shocked to my core if this book doesn’t become the next blockbuster movie. Thought-provoking, clever, and deliciously crafty, this debut novel is sure to be one of the most binge-worthy, buzzed about mystery/thrillers of the year.
The only teeny, tiny fly in the ointment was how complex and intricate the plot became as it rolled along. Despite the small cast of characters, their various hidden personas meant that notes were required to keep track of them all. On top of the many veiled secrets that were obscured from not only the other characters but the reader as well, the well-layered plot was beyond cryptic at times. Just the same, I ate up every word and flew through the nearly 400 pages in under twenty-four hours. After all, I just had to know the whos, hows, whats, and whys.
All said and done, Pliego has certainly made a name for herself with this masterful whodunnit in no time at all. With well-developed plot lines, a mixed media format, and distinct identities told through multiple POVs, even the complexity couldn’t turn me off in the end. And thanks to complex group dynamics and long-buried secrets, this compulsively readable novel spun tales within tales. So if you are a fan of Knives Out, Agatha Christie, or Clue, this is one novel you don’t want to miss. I’m not exaggerating. You need to make this your next read no matter what. If you need to pre-order it, so be it. It’s a definite must read. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
When renowned anonymous author J. R. Alastor hires former aspiring writer Mila del Angél to host a writing retreat at his private manor off the coast of Maine, she jumps at the chance—particularly since she has an axe to grind with one of the invitees. The guest list? Six thriller authors, all masters of deceit, misdirection, and mayhem.
Confess the crimes, survive the tropes.
Alastor and Mila have masterminded a week of games, trope-fueled riddles, and maybe a jump scare or two—the perfect cover for Mila to plot a murder of her own. But when a guest turns up dead—and it’s not the murder she planned—Mila finds herself trapped in a different narrative altogether.
One by one, you’ll lose your turn.
With a storm isolating the island, and the body count rising, Mila must outwit a killer who knows literally every trick in the book.
Until only one of us remains…
Thank you to Ande Pliego, Random House - Bantam, and NetGalley for my complimentary digital and physical copies. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 11, 2025
Content warning: murder, gun and knife violence, house fire...more
Terrifyingly plausible in a heart-stopping way, We Are Watching gave me a chilling ride of suspense just barely tinged with horror that had me thinkinTerrifyingly plausible in a heart-stopping way, We Are Watching gave me a chilling ride of suspense just barely tinged with horror that had me thinking long and hard after I read the last word. From the unsettling conspiracy theory plot to the well-honed characters that took center stage, what could have been way over-the-top without any payoff was anything but. I mean, while at first glance there is a definite need to suspend all disbelief, once I looked a bit harder at the underlying topics, it was something that could definitely happen for real. After all, given the political extremes that have currently taken over our world, I can all too easily see a scheme like this playing out in the news.
Even more impressive, though, was how beneath the thought-provoking premise was a plot that shined from each and every page. After a slow burn start that lined up Lily and Meg’s poignant backstory with stunning precision, the pace picked up steam as the well-hidden zealots began to descend. So intense that I often found myself holding my breath, the ratcheting foreboding and unending dread led up to an adrenaline-pumping climax that had my fingers flying at speed. And with deftly written multiple POVs and one heck of a jaw-dropping twist that I absolutely didn’t see coming, there was very little I would’ve wanted to change, all things considered.
The only minor imperfection that I could detect as I sped through this book was a teeny, tiny reveal in the final handful of pages. Not only did it feel a little bit like an afterthought to the rest of the finale, it just wasn’t genuine to what would have happened in real life. The rest of it, though, was complete and utter perfection. Shocking but realistic, it also left me guessing thanks to a somewhat open-ended conclusion.
All in all, while the themes in this tale of psychological suspense weren’t ones that I normally read, I was wholly invested from beginning to end. Eye-popping, thrilling, and downright disturbing, the dark, twisted story made my heart race and my blood turn to ice. I even had a tear or two well up in my eyes. You see, the themes hit way too close to home at times as I ripped through this novel. Combined with the sinister feel and characters who had me suspecting everyone in turn, it was not only unputdownable, it had me wishing that sleep wasn’t required. And while I believe that this book is not necessarily made for everyone out there, I still recommend it with every fiber of my being. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Meg Russo was behind the wheel when it happened. She and her husband Justin were driving their daughter Lily to Ithaca College, the family celebrating the eighteen-year-old music prodigy’s future. Then a car sidled up beside them, the young men inside it behaving erratically. The Russos’ car went off the road, and Justin didn’t survive the accident.
Four months later, Meg works to distract herself from her grief, reopening her small local bookstore. But soon after returning to work, bizarre messages and visitors begin to arrive, with strangers threatening Meg and vandalizing the store. They are obsessed with a young adult novel tiled The Prophesy, which was published 20 years earlier. An online group of believers are convinced the book predicted a plague, and social media posts link it to Satanism. People are sure it heralds the apocalypse. These conspiracy theorists vow to seek revenge on its author...Meg.
As the threats turn more violent, Meg begins to suspect that Justin's death may not have been an accident. To find answers and save herself and Lily, she must get to the root of the lies fueling these people to come after them—and find a way to face them head on.
Thank you to Alison Gaylin and William Morrow for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 28, 2025
Content warning: fatal car accident, death of a spouse/father, antisemitism, police swatting, knife violence, kidnapping, mention of: cult...more
Before I start, I beg you not to read the synopsis for Shell Games if you haven’t already. Best read blind, all you need to know is that an obscenely Before I start, I beg you not to read the synopsis for Shell Games if you haven’t already. Best read blind, all you need to know is that an obscenely wealthy woman gets married to her high school sweetheart after finding each other again later in life. On their wedding night, he makes a confession. Or does he? Because it’s soon suggested that she must be suffering from dementia as there was no such confession. Is the new hubby trying to gaslight her into access to her fortune? Or is she actually losing her mind? There ya go. Now on to my glowing review…
What an utterly brilliant mind f*** of a book! Right from the start, Shell Games was fast-paced, entrancing, and darn close to perfect. Between the superlative characters and the well-plotted storyline that ducked and weaved with precision, it was an out-and-out winner from beginning to end. After all, it was addictive, compelling, and filled with edge-of-your-seat suspicion. And by the last page of this stunner, my eyes were actually sore from flying through the pages at such a high speed.
As for the characters, they are ALL looked upon with my trusty side-eye over and over. From the detested son-in-law to the elderly new husband (as well as a long list of others), my suspicion meter was well past eleven. Despite this, however, I didn’t have a shot at guessing what was really transpiring. And let me tell you, they had me feeling all of the feels: skepticism, hatred, adoration, and even a tiny bit of awe. All told, they were well-drawn and 100% realistic, which made the plot feel so as well.
The absolute best piece of the puzzle, however, was most definitely the twists. Shifting the story in first one direction and then another, my ever armchair sleuthing mind struggled to stay one step ahead. No matter what I imagined, though, I was smoothly outgunned. Shocking, unpredictable, and thoroughly unguessable, there was even one final punch on the very last page that had my jaw on the floor as I gleefully chuckled and uttered “No f***ing way!”
All said and done, this novel will most definitely be making my list for best of the year. With short chapters, immersive storytelling, and deliciously complex characters, I just couldn’t get enough from what was a downright unputdownable read. Sure to keep you guessing from beginning to end, I simply can’t stress enough how much I loved this psychological thriller. So run, don’t walk to get a copy of this one yourself ASAP. Now please excuse me while I try to wipe this grin off of my face. Rating of 5+ stars.
Thank you to Bonnie Kistler and Harper Paperbacks for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: November 19, 2024
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: dementia, gaslighting, hurricane, death of a parent, suicide, breaking and entering...more
There are simply no words for the utter perfection held within the pages of The Mechanics of Memory. Nevertheless, I’ll give it a go. A near-future woThere are simply no words for the utter perfection held within the pages of The Mechanics of Memory. Nevertheless, I’ll give it a go. A near-future work of speculative fiction that felt more realistic than I can explain, I was in rapture from the very first page. With a blindingly fast pace, believable characters, and a wholly unguessable plot, the magic held within the premise was truly something to behold. Most astounding of all, though, was that I realized that fact in the very first chapter.
I’m not quite sure how to explain it, but there was a je ne sais quoi element that took this book from merely great to one in a million. Subtly walking a fine line between sci-fi and psychological thriller, the nuanced plot kept me off-balanced with multiple blind turns. Only in hindsight, though, did I realize that it was packed full of a whole host of deftly obscured clues. After all, while I was actually binge reading the book, there wasn’t a chance of me guessing where the immersive storyline was taking me next.
The characters were the true gold in a packed field of winners, however. From Hope to her motley crew of fellow residents, I was quickly pulled deeply into the story as I became invested in the well-constructed characters who shimmered with genuine verve. From the moments of humor to the “us against them” feel, they were fully fleshed out and felt 100% real. But Hope was the true standout nonetheless. Somewhere between unreliable and trustworthy, I was rooting for her from the very moment she was introduced.
All in all, by the last page, I was entirely under Ms. Lee’s control. A master of the written word, I have no doubt that she’s going to be a highflier in the world of bestselling fiction. After all, with palpable tension, richly layered characters, and precise plotting, it was not only a masterclass in suspense but a book that had me feeling all of the feels. So thank you, dear author, for this hypnotic tale. To all of my readers, this is one book you have GOT to order right now. So go on. I mean it. Head to your favorite bookseller ASAP. You definitely won’t regret it one bit. Rating of 5+++ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Memory is Copeland-Stark’s business. Yet after months of reconsolidation treatments at their sleek new flagship facility, Hope Nakano still has no idea what happened to her lost year, or the life she was just beginning to build with her one great love. Each procedure surfaces fragmented clues which erode Hope’s trust in her own memories, especially the ones of Luke. As inconsistencies mount, her search for answers reveals a much larger secret Copeland-Stark is determined to protect.
But everyone has secrets, including Hope.
Thank you to Audrey Lee and CamCat Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Yet again, Kelley Armstrong took me on the ride of my life with this third book in the Haven’s Rock series, Cold As Hell. Starting off like a rocket, Yet again, Kelley Armstrong took me on the ride of my life with this third book in the Haven’s Rock series, Cold As Hell. Starting off like a rocket, there was enough mystery and suspense to keep me intrigued down to my core. Even better, however, was how fast-paced and riveting the plot was as it twisted and turned. And boy was the great, big twist a gasp-inducing stunner. Catching me completely unawares despite my reveal-guessing talents, my jaw dropped in ecstasy as I whispered “No f***ing way!” Perfectly teeing up an explosive climax that had my fingers burning as I flew through the pages, I couldn’t have read the last third of the book any faster if I tried.
As for the characters, as always they were the special sauce to Ms. Armstrong’s crime fiction novel. Complex, fully-fleshed-out, and blessedly realistic, I’ve fallen in love with Casey and Eric more with each book in the series. This time around we were blessed with the arrival of their adorable child. Does everything go to plan? Of course not. It wouldn’t be a book by this author if it did. Filling even that heartwarming subplot with dread and foreboding, I relished what this new turn of events did for all of the characters in their development. From April and her endearing yet quirky behavior to Yolanda and her often irritating personality, they were all a home run for yours truly.
The only piece of the puzzle that bothered me just a bit happened to be that propulsive, blindingly fast yet far-fetched climax. Requiring a definite need to suspend all disbelief, it just felt somewhat off in relation to the rest of the novel. After all, while the idea of an isolated town out in the middle of the bush might not be all that realistic, the world-building surrounding it made it 100% feasible despite its many questionable traits. With mostly believable events and descriptions that made Haven’s Rock come alive, the bulk of this novel felt undeniably real. The climax in comparison, however, just went a bit too far into the absurd—at least for this reader.
All said and done, Kelley Armstrong nevertheless hit it out of the park yet again. Stuffed full of dark secrets, long-buried lies, and spine-tingling deceit, this book was probably my favorite out of this compulsively readable series. With precise plotting, an unguessable conclusion, and thoroughly relatable characters, there was no end to the fun as I flew through the pages. And let me tell you, that conclusion was utterly perfect. Soul-satisfying but with a dark, unexpected twist, I ate it up at an ever-ratcheting speed. So please…don’t wait. Head to Amazon and order this puppy right now. After all, you’re not going to want to miss a minute with Casey and Eric. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Haven’s Rock is a sanctuary town hidden deep in the Yukon for those who need to disappear from the regular world. Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are starting a family now that they’ve settled into their life here. As Casey nears the end of her pregnancy, she lets nothing, including her worried husband, stop her from investigating what happens in the forbidden forest outside the town of Haven’s Rock.
When one of the town's residents is drugged and wanders too close to the edge of town, she’s dragged into the woods kicking and screaming. She’s saved in the nick of time, but the women of the town are alarmed. Casey and Eric investigate the assault just as a snowstorm hits Haven’s Rock, covering the forest. It’s there they find a frozen body, naked in the snow. With mixed accounts of the woman's last movements, the two begin to question who they can trust―and who they can't―in their seemingly safe haven.
Thank you to Kelley Armstrong, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 18, 2025
Content warning: pregnancy, early labor, kidnapping, murder, mention of: getting drugged, sexual assault...more
OHHMMGGGEE!! With a vivid setting, multiple blind turns, and a deliciously dysfunctional family at the center of the action, Saltwater was one truly iOHHMMGGGEE!! With a vivid setting, multiple blind turns, and a deliciously dysfunctional family at the center of the action, Saltwater was one truly intoxicating tale. A slow burn exploration of many a dark secret, I quickly got sucked into the island of Capri. Thanks to evocative descriptions that brought the Italian locale to life, I felt as if I was a fly on the wall within a den of villains and supposed victims. But it was the plot itself that had me flying through the chapters. Peppered with foreboding cliffhangers that drew me in deep, I couldn’t put the book down until I reached the very last page.
While the build-up within the first half of the book was a definite slow burn, the last 160 pages took me on the ride of my life. After all, like a circling monster, the plot wound tighter and tighter until the explosive finale, which was filled with twist after twist. You see, just when I thought it was all over, there was an earth-shattering about face. Not only that, but it was followed by yet another—and another. Thanks to the perfect plotting, I didn’t foresee even a one and was left whispering “No f***ing way!” more than once as this claustrophobic tale gave way to a utterly flawless climax and conclusion.
As for the characters, it took me quite a while to get their mettle. Clouded by a multitude of secrets and lies, I had a hard time figuring out who was just suspicious and who was truly evil. A wide assortment of morally gray individuals, all but a few had my spidey-senses tingling. And let me tell you, when all was finally revealed, I was overcome with adoration for my dear Ms. Hays. Written with intensity and precision, this tale full of rich people behaving badly hit the nail on the head. After all, who can resist a low-key game of cat-and-mouse that is unguessable in the extreme?
All in all, I was beyond blown away. With an atmospheric setting, multiple distinct POVs as well as multiple timelines, and brilliant characterizations, this family drama/suspense/thriller was an out-and-out home run. From the taut, suspenseful scenes that triggered many side-eye glances from me to the deep background that built the multiple narrators into solid personas, I simply couldn’t have loved it more if I tried. So go grab your copy as soon as you can. I mean, who doesn’t love a family who oozes duplicitous deceit, rampant egotism, and unbridled greed as they each try to outwit one another? Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
In 1992, Sarah Lingate is found dead below the cliffs of Capri, leaving behind her three-year-old daughter, Helen. Despite suspicions that the old-money Lingates are involved, Sarah’s death is ruled an accident. And every year, the family returns to prove it’s true. But on the thirtieth anniversary of Sarah’s death, the Lingates arrive at the villa to find a surprise waiting for them—the necklace Sarah was wearing the night she died.
Haunted by the specter of that night, the legendary Lingate family unity is pushed to a breaking point, and Helen seizes the opportunity. Enlisting the help of Lorna Moreno, a family assistant, the two plot their escape from Helen’s paranoid, insular family. But when Lorna disappears and the investigation into Sarah’s death is reopened, Helen has to confront the fact that everyone who was on Capri thirty years ago remains a suspect—her controlling father, Richard; her rarely lucid aunt, Naomi; her distant uncle, Marcus; and their circle of friends, visitors, and staff. Even Lorna, her closest ally, may not be who she seems.
As long-hidden secrets about that night boil to surface, one thing becomes clear: Not everyone will leave the island alive.
Thank you to Katy Hays, Random House — Ballantine, and NetGalley for my digital and physical copies. All opinions are my own.
Just to preface my review, please please please go into this read blind. All you need to know is that it centers around a young woman who runs a true-Just to preface my review, please please please go into this read blind. All you need to know is that it centers around a young woman who runs a true-crime podcast where callers are invited to anonymously confess to their crimes. From there it all goes downhill when a man with a potentially terrifying connection to the host’s very own past comes onto the show. He then forces her—and her story—into the spotlight. Other than what I’m about to say in my review, you don’t need to know anything more… After all, even just one more word could spoil what was complete and utter perfection.
OMG! While Carter Wilson has never managed to disappoint in the past, Tell Me What You Did was on a whole other level. From the perfectly plotted storyline to the ever-ratcheting foreboding, I was not only on the edge of my seat, but my body was absolutely covered in chills. I swear that I’m not exaggerating in the slightest. Every single word was the stuff of nightmares with an antagonist as cold, creepy, and frightening as he was realistic. So much so that I felt the need to check the locks on my windows and the bolts on my doors before heading to bed on the night that I finished this spine-tingling psychological thriller. After all, I could easily put myself into each one of these scenes through Wilson’s riveting settings and evocative words.
Not only was the plot downright propulsive, but it also centered around one of my all-time favorite tropes: a true-crime podcasting narrator. What took this one over the edge into truly sensational, however, were the dual timelines and mixed media format. Already an original premise, everything seemed to shift and change with each additional chapter. And I haven’t even mentioned the twists. Quite literally gasp-inducing, one in particular had me whispering “Wait, WHAT?!” into the night as the latest revelation truly sunk in. Now, I do have to admit that I guessed one of them before all was revealed, but even that didn’t minimize the true splendor of this unputdownable, awe-inspiring novel.
All in all, I just can’t get over what was a truly unsettling game of cat-and-mouse. With short, addictive chapters, genuine dialogue, and unbridled unease, it just couldn’t have been better. Even the believably mounting sense of danger was enough to signal that this was going to be a book to devour from the very first page. Add in a flawed, morally gray main character and layers of dark, twisted mysteries, and it easily became my favorite book by this author. And that statement is truly saying something as they were ALL easy five star reads for yours truly. Together with intense, taut writing and a well-developed plot, I’m now going to declare that I’ve just discovered my first out-and-out winner of the year. Rating of 5+ stars.
Thank you to Carter Wilson, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for my complimentary digital and physical copies. All opinions are my own.
With a ratcheting pace and an utterly unguessable conclusion, The Business Trip was a quick, easy read from beginning to end. Told via multiple POVs wWith a ratcheting pace and an utterly unguessable conclusion, The Business Trip was a quick, easy read from beginning to end. Told via multiple POVs with a round-robin-type style, I was pulled into the storyline right off the bat. And let me tell you, the twists were truly shocking if I do say so myself. So despite a slow burn first half that had me skimming here and there, I found myself racing through the pages hoping to learn what was going on behind the deftly woven veil. You see, this one had such a well-plotted chain of events that it had me marveling at Ms. Garcia’s shrewd, canny brain.
The further into the book that I got, however, the more and more everything seemed to unravel. From the over-the-top feel to the thoroughly unlikeable characters, it was hard to truly believe in the story despite it being incredibly well-layered. Out of all of my irritations, however, the shallow supporting characters—all of whom seemed to get their own POV—and misleading synopsis easily topped my list for this psychological thriller. I mean, it was so far from believable that I didn’t just need to suspend all disbelief, I had to completely detach it from real, non-fictionalized life.
All in all, this book was a definite mixed bag for yours truly. Twisty and mostly unpredictable, I had—on the whole—a good time and even finished it in one sitting after only a handful of hours. So as long as you’re looking for a popcorn thriller versus the hinted at Hitchcockian shocker, this one will definitely be right up your alley. After all, it would be perfect for fans of Kiersten Modglin or Freida McFadden. Just be sure to temper your expectations as the synopsis was certainly far from what was actually revealed in this new debut novel. Rating of 3 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women—or what did they do to him?
Thank you to Jessie Garcia, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
O.M.G. I am utterly blown away by what I just finished reading as well as shocked by the fact that haven’t discovered M.W. Craven until now. After allO.M.G. I am utterly blown away by what I just finished reading as well as shocked by the fact that haven’t discovered M.W. Craven until now. After all, I’m a massive fan of all things crime fiction and this one was easily one of the absolute best. The first book in the Washington Poe series, The Puppet Show demonstrated what only a truly gifted police procedural/crime thriller author can muster: an original premise, dynamite characters, and a deep dive into the darker side of humanity. But that, of course, was only the beginning of where this novel struck true, unequivocal gold.
Unlike many other crime fiction novels, this riveting plot kept the suspense level high and the action at full steam. Yes, there was some of the expected interviewing and evidence collecting, but for the most part that was broken up superbly with endearing relationships and plenty of giggle-worthy humor. And then there were the twists. From smaller ones that I definitely didn’t see coming to the one gigantic, jaw-dropping reveal that had me whispering “No f***ing way!” as I slapped the book to my chest in unadulterated glee.
The characters were the biggest win of all, however, in this definite home run. Between the naïve, brilliant analyst named Tilly and the brash, take-no-prisoners Detective Sergeant Poe, I quickly came to realize that I had just met two of my all-time favorite characters. But it was the interplay between them that made the duo shine even brighter. An unlikely pair, they made my heart sing as I laughed along with their hilarious and heartwarming chatter. Even better, however, they felt 100% realistic and easily won me over hook, line, and sinker.
All in all, I’m already plotting out how soon I can read the next book in the series. Dark, gritty, and yet undeniably compelling, the story resonated all while also making me mildly uneasy due to the serious themes. Have no fear, for the most part it never felt particularly graphic, although the prologue certainly got my attention. From there, though, the rising tension and edge-of-your-seat plotting kept me thoroughly enthralled. So as long as you love eccentric yet deep characters and a phenomenal cliffhanger ending, you’ll agree that this witty, complex plot was beyond good—it was damn near perfection. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
A serial killer is burning people alive in the Lake District's prehistoric stone circles. He leaves no clues and the police are helpless.
When his name is found carved into the charred remains of the third victim, disgraced detective Washington Poe is brought back from suspension and into an investigation he wants no part of.
Reluctantly partnered with the brilliant but socially awkward civilian analyst, Tilly Bradshaw, the mismatched pair uncover a trail that only he is meant to see. The elusive killer has a plan and for some reason Poe is part of it.
As the body count rises, Poe discovers he has far more invested in the case than he could have possibly imagined. And in a shocking finale that will shatter everything he's ever believed about himself, Poe will learn that there are things far worse than being burned alive...
An utterly original locked room mystery that kept my eyes riveted to the pages, Missing in Flight had everything I wanted and more. From the multiple An utterly original locked room mystery that kept my eyes riveted to the pages, Missing in Flight had everything I wanted and more. From the multiple distinct POVs to the deftly delivered emotional depth, I was both swept up by the characters and also floored by the plot. After all, it was fast-paced, addictive, and suspenseful beyond belief. Plotted in such a way as to gradually build up the dread and forebodingthis catastrophe in the air could end in heart-rending disaster. So did it you ask? All I’m willing to say is that Ms. Cole nailed it in one by the end of the novel.
I do need to warn you, though, that this book required a definite suspension of ALL disbelief. Once I did that, however, it was one heck of a rollercoaster ride of suspense. From the plane packed with more suspects than allies to the compelling FBI investigation on the ground, the more facts that were revealed, the less I seemed to know. You see, with each ensuing twist, the story shifted a little more until no amount of armchair sleuth sleuthing could’ve figured it out. And IYKYK, but constant, unending surprises are just what I like in a well-played psychological thriller.
All in all, I found this pulse-pounding plot supremely well done. With a premise that has me whispering “Wait, what?!” more times than I could count and in air dynamics that felt decidedly real, I easily got swept up in the drama as I waited to find out what became of this poor baby. And thanks to a cleverly portrayed unreliable narrator, I had no clue who to trust within this gripping new novel. So if you love suspicious characters, palpable tension, and short inhale-able chapters, this book’s for you. Shrewdly plotted and emotionally driven, I had a blast ripping through these 277 pages in no time at all. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Rushing back to her seat, Makayla Rossi is relieved that all’s still quiet. But when she checks on her sleeping baby, relief morphs into fear. The bassinet is empty.
Liam is gone.
It was a long flight from Anchorage to New York, and with every flight attendant busy, Makayla reluctantly ran to the restroom, asking a seat neighbor to watch her son. She stepped away for just a few minutes. Yet at thirty thousand feet, he still vanished.
Passengers and crew scour the plane to no avail, and since no one recalls seeing her with a baby, suspicions begin to mount about Makayla’s mental state. She’s certain this is nothing like her mother’s on-air memory meltdown. If only Jack, her husband, were there. He would believe her. A high-profile banker featured in Forbes, maybe he could even help.
But Makayla is squarely on her own. And she’ll have to think fast in order to find her son—before it’s too late.
Thank you to Audrey J. Cole and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
When all of my friends started gushing about Between Lies and Revenge, I had some serious FOMO hit me hard. Needless to say, they were 100% right. BotWhen all of my friends started gushing about Between Lies and Revenge, I had some serious FOMO hit me hard. Needless to say, they were 100% right. Both a thought-provoking premise and a twisty, riveting tale of domestic suspense, this little revenge story debut was beyond great—it was utterly stunning. From the onion-like plot that featured layers of mysteries to the cleverly crafted lies piled upon dark unexpected secrets, my head was spinning until the final timely reveal.
As for the characters, they couldn’t have been better. On top of two dynamite female main characters featured in the distinct identities of the dual POVs, there were plenty of individuals who I absolutely loved to hate on top of a few choice others who got my side-eye for sure. Olivia and Elle, however, were easily my favorites. Fully fleshed out and with depth to their personas, I was rooting for both as the plot rolled along. Okay. I do have to admit, I was slightly more Team Elle, but as the page count grew, so did my bond to Olivia as well.
The out-and-out best piece to the puzzle, however, were the jaw-dropping twists that set me back on my heels. At one point, I actually thought that my armchair sleuthing self had figured out a gigantic reveal. Boy, was I wrong. Shifting the story first in one direction and then another, the ground wobbled under my feet in the most delightful of ways. Added to the much loved scheming and well-hidden lies, it all gave a definite Hitchcockian slant to this multiple-sided con artist tale.
All in all, this mesmerizing rollercoaster ride won me over hook, line, and sinker. With an ever ratcheting pace and deliciously short chapters, the combination of all that I’ve listed was simply sublime. After all, it was an addictive, unforgettable trip into this author’s talented mind—one that had me flying through the pages from the tantalizing start until the perfectly plotted finale. I just hope that this was only the first voyage with Ms. Sharpe as my guide. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Years after the death of her brother and the theft of her heirloom jewelry, ex-con Elle is on the run...until she spots a stranger wearing a signature piece. Determined to take back what is hers, Elle stalks and befriends the woman, using her gemology skills as a ruse. Elle offers to appraise and clean the jewelry, replicating and replacing the pieces instead.
Olivia is drowning. She maxes out credit cards behind her financially-strict husband's back in order to pay for fertility treatments, keep her blackmailing father at bay, and maintain appearances with her wealthy friends and their cultist MLM social circles. When Olivia meets Elle, she finally feels understood...and inspired.
With Elle’s expertise and Olivia’s connections, the two start a side-hustle by way of home jewelry appraisal parties. When this isn't lucrative enough, they develop the perfect con: switching rich housewives’ gems with fakes. But their hidden truths get in the way of their success, and each other. Before their secrets bury them, they must confess their lies to one another and trust their final con will exact the revenge that’ll secure their freedom, and their lives.
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
The epitome of fun, Everyone This Christmas Has a Secretmixed a quick-witted whodunnit with a cozy mystery feel. Showcasing the snarky, likeable protThe epitome of fun, Everyone This Christmas Has a Secretmixed a quick-witted whodunnit with a cozy mystery feel. Showcasing the snarky, likeable protagonist of Ernest Cunningham yet again in this third in a series, I was quickly pulled into the plot through fast pacing and irresistible surprises. The best piece of the puzzle, however, was easily the final jaw-dropping twist. Bringing to mind the greats such as Agatha Christie herself, I quickly had a smile slapped onto my face as I absolutely did not see this one coming despite the many cleverly administered clues.
Coming a close second to the dynamite reveal was the style and format of this unputdownable novella. Told through first-person narration where Ernest speaks directly to the reader, I felt like I was a part of the drama from the very first page. Adding to the fun was the advent calendar structure and the generously sprinkled humor, which quite literally had me giggling with glee. Even better, however, was the fact that this didn’t feel like a short story. Well-developed and perfectly wrapped up, there wasn’t a thing missing—up to and including the flawless modern take on a Golden Age mystery dénouement.
All in all, I couldn’t have been happier with Stevenson’s newest addition to Ernie’s unfolding saga. Packed full of seemingly impossible crimes and one heck of an amateur sleuth, I loved trying to work out the who in this masterful whodunnit before it was revealed in all of its well-plotted glory. Sadly—or, rather, happily—I was not up to the job and instead reveled in being shocked to the core when Ernie enacted his (mostly) well-thought plan. So if you are looking for a lighter read with a side of the holiday vibe, run—don’t walk—and order this one ASAP. After all, I loved this quick, easy read and I’m positive that you will as well. Rating of 5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
My name’s Ernest Cunningham. I used to be a fan of reading Golden Age murder mysteries, until I found myself with a haphazard career getting stuck in the middle of real-life ones. I’d hoped, this Christmas, that any self-respecting murderer would kick their feet up and take it easy over the holidays. I was wrong.
So here I am, backstage at the show of world-famous magician Rylan Blaze, whose benefactor has just been murdered. My suspects are all professional tricksters: masters of the art of misdirection.
THE MAGICIAN THE ASSISTANT THE EXECUTIVE THE HYPNOTIST THE IDENTICAL TWIN THE COUNSELLOR THE TECH
My clues are even more abstract: A suspect covered in blood, without a memory of how it got there. A murder committed without setting foot inside the room where it happens. And an advent calendar. Because, you know, it’s Christmas.
If I can see through the illusions, I know I can solve it. After all, a good murder is just like a magic trick, isn’t it?
Thank you to Benjamin Stevenson and Mariner Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 22, 2024
Trigger warning: gun violence, mention of: drug addiction...more
Taking place on an enigma of an island with a plot that undeniably matched the setting step for step, Beautiful Ugly was quite possibly Alice Feeney’sTaking place on an enigma of an island with a plot that undeniably matched the setting step for step, Beautiful Ugly was quite possibly Alice Feeney’s most mind-blowing novel yet. From the twistiest of twists to the deliciously eccentric characters, I was thoroughly immersed in a book that will easily be one of my favorites of the year. It wasn’t until I closed the gorgeous cover, however, that I was hit with the clever, thought-provoking message. Seemingly much deeper than any of this author’s prior works, it made me feel all of the feels while also delivering one altogether beautifully written tale.
With dual timelines and dual POVs, the characters gleamed with all of their wacky, oddball behavior. Along with an unreliable narrator caught in a locked room mystery plot, the inevitable twists and turns kept me spellbound until the last shocking word. But it was the island itself that made those very words come alive. So intensely evocative that the Isle of Amberly seemed like yet another character in the story, the vivid descriptions brought the smell of salt water to my nose and the sight of misty fog to my eyes. When I say that this was a truly special novel, I’m not exaggerating in the slightest. It was Feeney at her finest, no doubt about it.
Then there was the underlying feel of the novel. Ringing with foreboding and an ever present sinister vibe, I just knew that something wasn’t quite right—even if I was happily blind to what exactly it was. Twist after brilliant twist was laid at my feet until the truth was finally revealed in all of its perfectly timed glory. And through ever present tension and suspense, this often hard to find thriller double-act delivered in spades. Even better, however, it was all rounded off with a truly unguessable conclusion that had me smiling with glee. After all, there’s a reason why Alice Feeney’s known as the queen of unforgettable twists.
All said and done, I’m utterly blown away. From the riveting start to the somewhat open ending, I was glued to the pages as this book was 100% unputdownable for this thriller lover. So if you love a good jaw-dropping twist or sublime character study that packs quite the punch, this is most definitely a book you need to read. I mean, half of the time I was unsure what I could believe. Was Grady seeing things? Or was it all real? I promise that I won’t say another word other than that you need to order this one ASAP. Flawlessly crafted and plotted to perfection, be prepared to second guess everything within these awe-inspiring pages. Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Author Grady Green is having the worst best day of his life.
Grady calls his wife to share some exciting news as she is driving home. He hears Abby slam on the brakes, get out of the car, then nothing. When he eventually finds her car by the cliff edge the headlights are on, the driver door is open, her phone is still there…but his wife has disappeared.
A year later, Grady is still overcome with grief and desperate to know what happened to Abby. He can’t sleep, and he can’t write, so he travels to a tiny Scottish island to try to get his life back on track. Then he sees the impossible—a woman who looks exactly like his missing wife.
Thank you to Alice Feeney and Flatiron Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 14, 2024
Trigger warning: missing person, mention of: sexual abuse, drowning...more
My mind is blown. Like it properly exploded. I knew going into The Swimmer that I was in for a treat. After all, Loreth Anne White is not only a virtuMy mind is blown. Like it properly exploded. I knew going into The Swimmer that I was in for a treat. After all, Loreth Anne White is not only a virtuoso of the written word, but her dynamic characters, killer twists, and unforgettable plots have easily made her one of my auto-buy authors. Unsurprisingly, this novel not only delivered in spades, but it also raised the stakes for whatever White comes up with next. Finely layered, twisty in the extreme, and thoroughly unguessable, it was easily my favorite by White…at least until she releases her next dynamite thriller.
The storyline was downright sublime. Fast-paced right off the bat, there wasn’t a slow moment throughout the onion-like plot. Told via multiple POVs and dual timelines, it unfurled genuinely as dirty schemes were concocted and well-hidden lies were revealed. But the twists were what took this from great to utter mind f*** level status. Quite literally jaw-dropping, they delivered one gasp-inducing shock after the other right up until the perfectly plotted conclusion.
And then there was the format. I mean, how brilliant was it of White to intersperse true crime podcast transcripts into the plot? Through them she let clues drop left, right, and center. At first I thought it was going to give the whole shebang away before I was ready. Boy was I wrong! After all, when it came down to that final reveal, I was 100% floored. Even better, it returned Trinity Scott to the scene who we were originally introduced to in the awe-inspiring Beneath Devil’s Bridge.
As for the characters, I was duly impressed. Complex, expertly honed, and with depth to their personas, they each felt completely original yet also utterly realistic. Between an eccentric stalker and the unlikeable duo who were the focus of her attention, the plot came alive as their situation unraveled. By the gripping finale, I was wholeheartedly sold on the fallout from all that occurred even if I could’ve done with a bit more of a ruinous solution.
All in all, White most certainly did it again. With short cliffhanger chapters, addictive misdirection, and plot charging drama, there wasn’t a thing not to love. Thanks to a creepy stalker vibe and a devious atmosphere you could cut with a knife, I was over the moon to find White’s characteristic relentless suspense page after page. Needless to say, I recommend this with every fiber of my heart, body, and soul. So go on. Order this book now. Yes, right now. I’m waiting... Rating of 5+ stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Socially awkward Chloe Cooper divides her time between dog walking, bartending, caring for her ailing mother, and at a safe distance, watching people and inventing the stories of their lives. Like Chloe’s new neighbors: glamorous influencer Jemma Spengler and Jemma’s husband, Adam, a renowned surgeon. They’re attractive, wealthy, and in a house of open windows, so exposed.
A move to the Pacific Northwest is supposed to be a fresh start for Jemma and Adam. It’s a renewed commitment to a marriage fractured by secrets. A chance to work through the tragic losses in their past. For Jemma, however, this new beginning also comes with an unnerving sensation that she’s being watched.
Then, on a fog-shrouded beach early in the morning, Chloe witnesses the murder of a swimmer. Her suspicions aroused, she suddenly sees her neighbors in a sinister new light. But as a detective and her partner close in, nothing is quite as it seems. Because the Spenglers are not the only ones with secrets. And Chloe isn’t the only one who’s been watching.
Thank you to Loreth Anne White and Montlake for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: September 10, 2024
Scroll down for my potentially plot spoiling trigger list.
Trigger warning: hit-and-run, stalking, cancer, infidelity, death of a parent, alcoholism, knife violence...more
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