Blood Over Bright Haven

Title: Blood Over Bright Haven
Author: M L Wang
Published: October 29, 2024 by Del Rey
Format: Kindle, 430 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: Thomil had taken the long way back from scouting. Against his better judgment, he let down his wolfskin hood and welcomed the wind’s needles as he pressed through the howling dark.

Blurb: An orphan since the age of four, Sciona has always had more to prove than her fellow students. For twenty years, she has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic, fueled by a mad desire to achieve the impossible: to be the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry. When she finally claws her way up the ranks to become a highmage, however, she finds that her challenges have just begun. Her new colleagues will stop at nothing to let her know she is unwelcome, beginning with giving her a janitor instead of a qualified lab assistant.

What neither Sciona nor her peers realize is that her taciturn assistant was once more than a janitor; before he mopped floors for the mages, Thomil was a nomadic hunter from beyond Tiran’s magical barrier. Ten years have passed since he survived the perilous crossing that killed his family. But working for a highmage, he sees the opportunity to finally understand the forces that decimated his tribe, drove him from his homeland, and keep the Tiranish in power.

Through their fractious relationship, mage and outsider uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever—if it doesn’t get them killed first. Sciona has defined her life by the pursuit of truth, but how much is one truth worth with the fate of civilization in the balance?

My Opinion: Oh, man, was that intense.

Blood over Bright Haven by ML Wang is a masterclass in world-building and character depth. From the outset, the story introduces a plethora of names that I initially struggled to keep straight. I even took a few notes to help me track the characters. As it turns out, every name is important, and Wang does a phenomenal job of keeping each one fresh in the reader’s mind.

Each chapter is carefully crafted, sprinkling hints of the past and offering glimpses into the character's inner workings. These elements gradually build a bigger picture of the heart-wrenching future awaiting them.

Central to the story are the newly minted Highmage Sciona in the patriarchal utopian city of Tiran, and Thomil a lowly Kwen janitor turned assistant. Sciona, driven by ambition and ego, often makes ignorant off-handed comments about Thomil’s people that creates a hostile wedge and very little sympathy from the reader. It's a bitter irony, given that Sciona frequently comments on the perceived inferiority of others, all the while complaining that others do not see her as a scientist but as “just” a woman. This book navigates a world where sexism, xenophobia, colonialism, and conspiracy run rampant, and affects everyone in its path.

This book was not a quick read for me. The unexpected depth of conversations and intricate sections required moments of reflection. I found myself going back to reread paragraphs and conversations to fully grasp their deeper meanings. There were times when I held my breath as I turned the pages, engrossed in the intense narrative only to come to a section where the author weaved in a moment of humor, to allow me to catch my breath.

Blood over Bright Haven is a standalone novel that tackles themes, analogies, science, philosophy, and hard truths. It’s the kind of book that will have your head spinning for weeks, if not months, afterward. Every word and ridiculous situation captivated me, making this a memorable and thought-provoking read.

The Answer is No

Title: The Answer is No
Author: Fredrik Backman
Published: December 1, 2024 by Amazon Original Stories
Format: Kindle, 68 Pages
Genre: Short Story
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: It’s a frying pan that ruins Lucas’s life. We’ll get to that.

Blurb: Lucas knows the perfect night entails just three things: video games, wine, and pad thai. Peanuts are a must! Other people? Not so much. Why complicate things when he’s happy alone?

Then one day the apartment board, a vexing trio of authority, rings his doorbell. And Lucas’s solitude takes a startling hike. They demand to see his frying pan. Someone left one next to the recycling room overnight, and instead of removing the errant object, as Lucas suggests, they insist on finding the guilty party. But their plan backfires. Colossally.

My Opinion: A rollercoaster that had me laughing from page to page. It’s a masterful blend of humor, thoughtfulness, and emotional depth that manages to hit all the right notes.

It all begins with a frying pan—a seemingly ordinary object that sets off an extraordinary chain of events. What follows is a whirlwind of head-shaking moments, perplexing board meetings, and a hilarious "how did I get into this mess" saga. The controversy over Pad Thai with and without peanuts adds an extra layer of absurdity to the mix, making every page a joy to read.

Backman skillfully explores the essence of friendship and the convoluted ways we sometimes try to escape the world for a bit. Amidst all the chaos, there's a tender examination of what it means to have friends and the lengths we go to for them.

The story comes full circle with another frying pan moment, bringing a satisfying and humorous conclusion to a tale filled with ridiculous yet endearing situations. I loved every word and found myself laughing out loud at the absurdity and charm of this short story.

Tooth and Claw

Title: Tooth and Claw
Author: Craig Johnson
Published: November 19, 2024 by Viking
Format: Kindle, 205 Pages
Genre: Fiction
Series: Walt Longmire #.5

First Sentence: “What was that?” Henry Standing Bear looked at me and smiled. “My move.”

Blurb: Tooth and Claw follows Walt and Henry up to Alaska as they look for work after they both returned from serving in Vietnam. While working for an oil company in the bitter cold of winter, they soon encounter a ferocious polar bear who seems hell-bent on their destruction. But it’s not too long until they realize the danger does not lurk outside in the frozen Alaskan tundra, but with their co-workers who are after priceless treasure and will stop at nothing to get it.(GoodReads)

My Opinion: Tooth and Claw by Craig Johnson was, unfortunately, a major letdown. This novella, intended as a prequel to the Walt and Henry saga, stretched a single idea way past its breaking point. Despite my hopes for an engaging read, I found myself wandering through the first 50 pages, then skimming the middle section, before finally reading the last 25 pages in a last-ditch effort to find some redemption. It was an idea that went on way too long and should have been a DNF.

The premise seemed promising: a dark, blizzard-stricken adventure featuring a man-eating polar bear. Sounds like a normal Tuesday for Walt and Henry Standing Bear, right? But the story quickly gets bogged down with overly descriptive filler and a history lesson. Instead of the thrilling and immersive experience I'd hoped for, I was left wading through unnecessary details that diluted the excitement.

This isn't my first disappointment with Johnson's prequels. First Frost, which wasn’t numbered as a prequel, but explored Walt and Henry's pre-Vietnam days, also failed to impress. And now, Tooth and Claw attempts to chronicle their time after the war and Walt’s work on the Alaskan North Slope, but it too falls short. I sincerely hope this is the final prequel, as this seems to have run its course.

Going forward, I would much prefer future stories to incorporate any necessary background as subplots within the main, contemporary adventures. Craig Johnson excels at crafting humorous, zigzagging tales of Walt and his crew of do-gooders, and that's where the real magic of the series lies. Filling in the gaps with prequels simply detracts from what makes the series truly enjoyable.

In summary, Tooth and Claw strayed too far from the essence of what makes the Walt Longmire series a hit. Craig Johnson should refocus on the action-packed, humorous adventures in his future works, leaving the prequels behind.

The Mistletoe Mystery

Title: The Mistletoe Mystery
Author: Nita Prose
Published: October 1, 2024 by Ballantine Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 110 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Molly the Maid #2.5

First Sentence: My gran loved all holidays, but her favorite by far was Christmas.

Blurb: Molly Gray has always loved the holidays. When Molly was a child, her gran went to great lengths to make the season merry and bright, full of cherished traditions. The first few Christmases without Gran were hard on Molly, but this year, her beloved boyfriend and fellow festive spirit, Juan Manuel, is intent on making the season Molly’s mofinst joyful yet.

But when a Secret Santa gift exchange at the Regency Grand Hotel raises questions about who Molly can and cannot trust, she dives headfirst into solving her most consequential—and personal—mystery yet. Molly has a bad feeling about things, and she starts to wonder: has she yet again mistaken a frog for a prince? (GoodReads)

My Opinion: In the latest installment of Nita Prose's series, The Mistletoe Mystery, Molly the maid—who usually has an uncanny knack for solving the most perplexing puzzles—finds herself befuddled by a particularly challenging case. This time, her usual razor-sharp instincts seem to have gone astray, leading her to a maze of missteps and muddled clues.

While the charm of Molly's innocent and curious nature continues to shine through, the series is beginning to feel a bit redundant. Her interactions with Juan, although endearing, are starting to lose their novelty.

One thing to note for potential readers: to fully grasp the nuances of the characters and their relationships, it's essential to have read the previous books in the series.

While it seems to be set in the present day, there's an old-fashioned charm that permeates the narrative. The exact year and city remain a mystery, but perhaps that's part of the allure—leaving room for the reader's imagination.

The next book in the series, A Maid’s Secret, is slated for release this spring.

Between the Sound and Sea

Title: Between the Sound and Sea
Author: Amanda Cox
Published: August 6, 2024 by Revell
Format: Kindle, 327 Pages
Genre: Christian Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: Prologue. November 2005. The old woman observed the young boy kicked back in the adjacent recliner, his face practically glued to that tiny screen, as it had been since his visit began.

Blurb: Every family has its secrets. Josephina Harris wouldn't mind if her family still had a few of their own after a lawsuit tarnishes their name. When an opportunity opens to become a temporary keeper of a decommissioned lighthouse on a North Carolina island, she jumps at the chance to escape her small town to oversee its restoration.

As the work begins, "Joey" discovers strange notes tucked deep in the crevices of the old stone walls--pages torn from a lighthouse keeper's log signed by someone named Mae who recounts harrowing rescues at sea. Fascinated by a woman lighthouse keeper, Joey digs into the past only to discover there's never been a record of a lighthouse keeper by that name.

When things start to go amiss on the island, locals are convinced that it is the ghost of the lighthouse keeper and his daughter who were lost at sea during World War II. As Joey sifts through decades of rumors and legends and puts together the pieces of the past, what emerges is a love story--one that's not over yet.

My Opinion: When I picked up Between the Sound and Sea, I had no idea it was Christian Fiction. Honestly, I might have skipped it if I knew. But as they say, sometimes the right book finds you.

I was looking for something different from my usual reads, and this book's sweetness, without being preachy, was a refreshing change. Unlike the typical story of a woman returning to her hometown to rebuild her life, this follows Josephina "Joey" Harris as she leaves her familiar town to refurbish an old lighthouse on a North Carolina island.

Joey's journey isn't about reinventing herself but finding clarity and purpose. Along the way, she uncovers the history of Bleakpoint and the legend of Saint-Mae, heals her broken family, and finds a new one. This place, between the sound and the sea, leaves a lasting impact on her and the reader.

Despite being a full-length novel, the book reads like a novella, with some time jumps that keep the story moving. The little tidbits Amanda Cox drops here and there are delightful, and the full story, with its heartbreak and love, is beautifully revealed.

This is contemporary Christian fiction without the heavy-handed sermons. There are occasional biblical quotes and references, but nothing overbearing. It's clean, with no spice, language, or trigger warnings, making it a soothing and heartfelt read.

The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians: True Stories of the Magic of Reading

Title: The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians: True Stories of the Magic of Reading
Author: James Patterson, Matt Eversmann
Published: April 8, 2024 by Little, Brown and Company
Format: Audio 8 hours, Hardcover 333 Pages
Genre: Biography

First Sentence: “Ah, I just love that smell,” I hear a customer say to a friend as I’m doing some shelving at the back of the bookstore.

Blurb: Booksellers and librarians are superheroes, saving lives every single day. Here are their amazing, inspiring true stories as told to the greatest storyteller of our time, James Patterson.

To be a bookseller or librarian…

You have to play detective.

Be a treasure hunter. A matchmaker. An advocate. A visionary.

A person who creates “book joy” by pulling a book from a shelf, handing it to someone and saying, “You’ve got to read this. You’re going to love it.”

Step inside The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians and enter a world where you can feed your curiosities, discover new voices, find whatever you want or require. This place has the magic of rainbows and unicorns, but it's also a business. The book business.

Meet the smart and talented people who live between the pages—and who can’t wait to help you find your next favorite book.

My Opinion: Feeling the onset of a reading slump, I turned to the audio version of The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians hoping to reignite my passion for books. And it worked wonders.

From the moment I started listening, the enthusiasm of book lovers rekindled my own love for reading. The book's heartfelt stories showcase how booksellers and librarians, through their passion and dedication, help people connect with the wider world. They introduce new passions, inject humor into everyday interactions, answer the questions people are often too afraid to ask, and stand firm against book banning.

The stories narrated in the book reminded me of the incredible impact books can have. I listened to the audio twice, keeping it close for those days when I needed a pick-me-up. Even as the stories became familiar, they resonated, providing comfort and inspiration.

What struck me most was how booksellers and librarians go beyond their roles to make a difference. They create a sense of community, offer guidance, and show compassion, all while championing the power of reading. These true stories highlight the magic that happens when people connect through books.

The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians pulled me out of my reading slump and reminded me of the profound joy books and those who love them bring to our lives. It's a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the magic of reading and the unsung heroes who keep that magic alive.

A Fatal Feast at Bramsford Manor

Title: A Fatal Feast at Bramsford Manor
Author: Darci Hannah
Published: August 20, 2024 by Kensington Cozies
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 320 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Food & Spirits Mysteries #1

First Sentence: Food, to a people-pleaser like Bridget “Bunny” MacBride, was a powerful medium.

Blurb: While filming at a haunted English manor, chef Bunny MacBride’s big break on her first reality TV show may be cut short by an unscripted murder in Darci Hannah’s new Food & Spirits cozy mystery series . . . It isn’t how chef Bridget “Bunny” MacBride imagined her own cooking show unfolding. But, if preparing historic meals with a modern flair is what it takes to get her cooking on the air, she can deliver, even if her dinner guest is a ghost. That’s the premise of the new reality TV show Food & Spirits, where Chef Bunny teams up with ghost hunter Brett Bloom and psychic medium Giff McGrady to visit haunted locales around the world and tempt lingering spirits back to the table with a beloved meal. For their first episode, the Food & Spirits team sets off to investigate Bramsford Manor, a historic house turned famously haunted hotel, in picturesque Hampshire, England. The sprawling estate is said to be home to the Mistletoe Bride, a young woman who died in the 18th century, the victim of a tragic accident on her Christmas wedding night. Disliking spooks but loving food, Bunny leaves the spectral search to the pros and focuses on the feast, creating a traditional English holiday wedding dinner, complete with a gorgeous prime rib, Yorkshire pudding, and rustic apple tarts. It’s a sumptuous meal she hopes will entice the ghostly Mistletoe Bride to take a seat and join them while the cameras roll. But Bunny’s task is made more difficult when someone steals a boning knife from her custom kit. Alas, when the blade finally turns up again—in the chest of an all-too-human dinner guest—Bunny’s woes only grow as she is named a lead suspect in the case! Now, with a haunted house full of living residents, staff, and crew, Bunny will need the help of Brett, Giff, and her clairvoyant Grandma Mac, to solve this murder before the manor gains another ghost!

My Opinion: Starting Darci Hannah's new series, A Fatal Feast at Bramsford Manor, was a bit of a gamble for me since I tend to enjoy one series by an author and rarely any additional series they write. But the book kicked off with an intriguing premise that had me hooked initially. However, it lost momentum midway, with a slow pace and too many characters making the plot feel cluttered.

Bunny McBride, the protagonist, is a Scottish chef roped into hosting a new food and spirits travel show—though it turns out "spirits" means ghosts, not drinks! Bunny's journey is filled with humor and a touch of the supernatural, with a nod to Hannah’s Beacon Bakeshop series that will make fans smile.

The story introduces a quirky cast, including a white rabbit guiding Bunny to a body, and Granny Mac, Bunny's eccentric and spiritually gifted grandmother, who steals the show with her wit and wisdom.

Bunny's struggles with her past and her unexpected ghostly encounters add depth, but the plot gets bogged down with redundant elements. By the end, the murder mystery takes a backseat to the array of characters and ghostly antics.

A Fatal Feast at Bramsford Manor had a promising start with its unique blend of mystery and supernatural elements. Despite its slow middle section, the book offers humor and intriguing characters, especially Granny Mac. It’s worth a read for fans of quirky cozy mysteries, but it might not be everyone's cup of tea.

Bookshops & Bonedust

Title: Bookshops & Bonedust
Author: Travis Baldree
Published: November 7, 2023 by Tor Trade
Format: Paperback, 352 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Legends & Lattes #0

First Sentence: Prologue. “Eighteen!” bellowed Viv, bringing her saber around in a flat curve that battered the wight’s skull off its spine.

Blurb: Viv's career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam's Ravens isn't going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she's packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she'll never be able to return to it.

What's a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn't possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn't all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

My Opinion: Having come late to this book party, I decided to jump into this series with the prequel, Bookshops & Bonedust, instead of starting with the first book, Legends & Lattes. This prequel begins ten years before the main series, and it's packed with a touching mix of characters who bring their backstories to the table.

A blend of power and loss, budding romances, and heartbreak. It's filled with the kindness of strangers, the warmth of found family, and the joy of discovering a new passion and purpose. All wrapped up in humor that keeps the book flowing.

I'm still getting my feet wet in the fantasy genre. Yet, I believe this book leans towards epic fantasy since the reader is introduced to an orc mercenary, a rattkin book merchant, a dwarf baker, a gnome, a necromancer, and even a satchel of enslaved bones that, with the right dust, spring to life. And let's not forget Pot Roast, the adorable dog who seems to be part pug, part owl, and 100% charming. The genre might be confusing, but the fun and enjoyment are undeniable.

Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books

Title: Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books
Author: Kirsten Miller
Published: June 18, 2024 by William Morrow
Format: Hardcover, 298 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction

First Sentence: Ronnie Childers was tripping his balls off in Jackson Square when an angel of the Lord appeared before him.

Blurb: Beverly Underwood and her arch enemy, Lula Dean, live in the tiny town of Troy, Georgia, where they were born and raised. Now Beverly is on the school board, and Lula has become a local celebrity by embarking on mission to rid the public libraries of all inappropriate books—none of which she’s actually read. To replace the “pornographic” books she’s challenged at the local public library, Lula starts her own lending library in front of her home: a cute wooden hutch with glass doors and neat rows of the worthy literature that she’s sure the town’s readers need.

What Lula doesn’t know is that a local troublemaker has stolen her wholesome books, removed their dust jackets, and restocked Lula’s library with banned books: literary classics, gay romances, Black history, witchy spell books, Judy Blume novels, and more. One by one, neighbors who borrow books from Lula Dean’s library find their lives changed in unexpected ways. Finally, one of Lula Dean’s enemies discovers the library and decides to turn the tables on her, just as Lula and Beverly are running against each other to replace the town’s disgraced mayor.

That’s when all the townspeople who’ve been borrowing from Lula’s library begin to reveal themselves. That's when the showdown that’s been brewing between Beverly and Lula will roil the whole town...and change it forever. (Amazon)

My Opinion: The brilliance at the beginning of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books lies in Kirsten Miller's ability to make her readers laugh and shake their heads at far-reaching social issues. Initially focusing on banning books at the local library, the story quickly evolves into a broader narrative. Battle lines are drawn, hearts are broken, and families are torn apart. Throughout the turmoil, I found myself navigating a range of emotions—jolts, head shakes, inhaled breaths, and laughter—all while hoping for a happily ever after.

The author peppers the narrative with cultural references, including book titles as chapter headings, that help readers engage on multiple levels and enrich the experience. The book reaches a peak in its first half, maintaining a lighthearted feel despite its debated subjects. However, it takes a sudden downward plunge into darker territory with notorious characters and a despicable subject matter, which felt unnecessary. This shift turned me off, leaving me questioning whether finishing the book was worth my time.

Despite the attempt to turn things around in the final chapters, including a "years later" recap, it felt too late to change my opinion on how the book wasted its initial promise.

An Instruction in Shadow

Title: An Instruction in Shadow
Author: Benedict Jacka
Published: October 15, 2024 by Ace
Format: Kindle, Paperback 336 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Inheritance of Magic #2

First Sentence: It was wet, it was cold, and I was worried.

Blurb: The ultra-rich control magic—the same way they control everything else—but Stephen Oakwood may just beat them at their own game in this exhilarating contemporary fantasy from the author of the Alex Verus novels.Stephen Oakwood has emerged victorious against the schemes of his aristocratic family. Now he finally has the opportunity to do what he’s been wanting to do for a long track down his father. But doing so won’t be easy. Stephen’s not so isolated any more, but the contacts he’s making in the magical world—everyone from the corporation he works for to the mother he’s just beginning to reconnect with—all have agendas of their own. And now a new group is emerging from the shadows, calling themselves the Winged. Their leader, the mysterious Byron, promises that he can show Stephen how to find his father...but he wants something in return.Following that trail will throw Stephen into greater danger than he’s ever faced before. To survive, he’ll need to use all of his tricks and sigls, and pick up some new ones. Only then will he be able to prevail against his enemies...and find out who’s really pulling the strings.

My Opinion: What began well fizzled in the middle, started to regain momentum, and ended in a way that no book should.

This book picks up about a week after the previous one ended. If, like me, you've read many books in between, you might need to revisit the last few chapters of An Inheritance of Magic to reacquaint yourself with wells, essentia, drucraft, and the House of Ashford.

Stephen Oakwood's job as a locator takes a downturn, forcing him to focus on essentials like rent and food rather than the intricacies of House Ashford. He confronts his mother and continues to seek the whereabouts of his father. His half-siblings are still a mess, but Bridget/Isadora, seems to be on his side, while his Tobias remains as diabolical and untrustworthy as ever, yet Stephen finds something likable about him.

From the previous book, we know that Charles Ashford, the head of House Ashford, is Stephen’s grandfather and will decide who will be the next Head of House. Cousin Calhoun is considered the heir apparent, but the repeated claims that "Stephen isn’t qualified" and "Stephen will never be appointed," along with relentless testing, makes the reader wonder if this is the obvious direction the series will take.

It seems the whole point of this book was to introduce the reader to The Winged, a cult led by the nefarious Byron, who has information about Stephen's father. In his desperation, Stephen follows Byron, wherever that may lead him.

Overall, this book feels like filler. Not much happens, and few inroads are made. It feels more like the author was sprinkling ideas to see what sticks. This book lacks the spark that the first in the series had. Will I read the next one? I think I have to, in hopes that Benedict Jacka gets this series back on track and cuts out the unnecessary filler.

Killing Time

Title: Killing Time
Author: R.W. Green writing for M.C. Beaton
Published: October 8, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, 256 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Agatha Raisin #35

First Sentence: “So this is where the murder was committed…” Agatha Raisin leaned against a wooden gate, craning her neck to peer into the meadow beyond.

Blurb: Life is never, ever dull in Agatha Raisin's sleepy Cotswolds village! Agatha Raisin's private detective agency is working flat out on a series of burglaries which take a violent turn when a friend of Agatha's is murdered during a raid on his antiques shop. Although determined to nail the villains, Agatha still makes time to help Sir Charles Fraith prepare to stage a massive, hugely glamorous event in the grounds of his ancestral home, Barfield House. When Agatha begins to receive death threats and narrowly avoids being abducted by kidnappers, she takes advantage of a previously arranged trip to Majorca to lie low for a while. There she meets her partner, former police officer John Glass, who is now working as a dance instructor on a cruise liner. Their relationship founders over John's apparent closeness to his stage dance partner, Louise. Putting her love life on hold, Agatha heads home, having worked out who has been threatening her life. Can Agatha track down the would-be killer, nail her friend's murderers and rescue her romance with John? Everything comes to a climax at the Barfield Extravaganza when on top of everything else, Agatha also manages to solve a 400-year-old Cotswold murder mystery!

My Opinion: This is one of those series that is an automatic read, regardless of the level of writing. Killing Time opens with a reference to a crime from the 1660s, leaving a shadowy tone that left me curious about where this book was going. The story then changes and quickly escalates with a series of current-day events: burglaries, riddles as death threats, a murder, an attempted kidnapping, vandalism, a clock, and relationship drama—all against the backdrop of planning a grand event for Charles’s Barfield wine business.

The usual characters are here, and I particularly enjoyed Bill Wong's and Gustav’s characters—Bill’s ability to handle Agatha, mingling with Gustav’s patient endurance of her antics, always makes me laugh.

Killing Time, while short, presents an engaging start with numerous plot points and dramatic turns. It features long chapters heavily packed with activity at the start, but the pace meanders as it progresses through the extensive plot points and then focuses on tying up loose ends. Despite this, the characters and the series' charm continue to draw me back.

A Merry Little Murder Plot

Title: A Merry Little Murder Plot
Author: Jenn McKinlay
Published: October 8, 2024 by Berkley
Format: Kindle, 317 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Library Lover's Mystery #15

First Sentence: "Let it snow, let it snow, Let it snow..." a voice sang softly.

Blurb: During the most wonderful time of the year, famous author Helen Monroe arrives in Briar Creek to be the writer in residence, but her “bah humbug” attitude excludes her from the many holiday celebrations the town residents enjoy. To try to spread some Christmas cheer, library director Lindsey Norris invites the new writer in residence to join her crafternoon club. Helen politely refuses and when an altercation happens between Helen and another patron, Lindsey begins to suspect the author has been keeping to herself for a reason.

Another newcomer, Jackie Lewis, reveals she’s visiting Briar Creek to be near Helen because she believes they are destined to meet. Having dealt with a stalker in the past, Lindsey feels compelled to tell Helen about Jackie, as she suspects that Helen is unaware her “number one” fan is in town.

When Jackie’s body is later discovered in the town park beneath the holiday-light display with a copy of Helen’s latest manuscript in her hand, the reclusive novelist becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her self-proclaimed mega-fan. Helen’s frosty demeanor melts when Lindsey offers her help, and now the librarian and her crafternoon pals must prove the author innocent before "The End" becomes Helen's final sentence.

My Opinion: The book starts strong, engaging readers with characters that quickly elicit solid reactions—a mix of irritating and suspicious roles, along with a third character caught in their scheming. It’s a promising beginning for an amateur sleuth mystery. However, the introduction of two additional characters, who seem to serve only to stir up trouble, left me unsure of their importance to the overall plot.

The premise of two women plotting to ban an author’s books and cancel a writer-in-residence program at a small town library felt somewhat far-fetched and weakly plotted. It’s hard to imagine this being a major issue in the grand scheme of things.

Around 100 pages in, the victim finally appears—though not the person I had anticipated. Do writers still print out manuscripts? The relationships in the book become twisty, adding confusion to the mix. One of the many subplots left me wondering whether this was an amateur sleuth mystery or a commentary on book banning.

The middle of the book turns out to be rather superficial and follows typical genre tropes. Lindsay, of course, must throw herself into the investigation, even though the Chief of Police, Emma, is more than capable of handling it. The usual twists are present, but none are particularly shocking or groundbreaking.

While the beginning held promise, A Merry Little Murder Plot ultimately became a “why bother” read. It’s books like this that make me question why I continue with the amateur sleuth genre. Despite the initial intrigue, the weak plotting and predictable twists left me disappointed.

The Games Gods Play

Title: The Games Gods Play
Author: Abigail Owen
Published: September 3, 2024 by Entangled: Red Tower Books
Format: Kindle, 645 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Series: The Crucible #1

First Sentence: Preface. “F” the gods. I got so close. So damned close to finally reaching my goal, finally seeing my curse broken, and maybe, just maybe, finally feeling the love of the one man I long for.

Blurb: Every hundred years, the gods toy with us mere mortals. And we let them.

The gods of myth are alive and well.

Once every century, they select a new ruler in a cutthroat competition, pushing mortal players to the limit. But this year, Hades is done sitting on the sidelines. And he’s picking a champion no one expects—in this modern mythic romantasy, she’ll fight for her life… for the god of Death.

My Opinion: The Game of Gods is reminiscent of The Hunger Games, with mortals as pawns in the Greek gods’ ultimate power play. Perhaps those with a deeper knowledge of Greek mythology might navigate the book’s many deities more easily. Still, I often found myself diving into rabbit holes to look up each one mentioned.

The protagonist, Lyra Keres, is a 23-year-old mortal cursed from birth to never be loved. Bartered by her parents at three years old to pay off a debt, she grows up to become a skilled thief. Lyra's life takes a dramatic turn when Hades selects her as his champion for the Crucible—a twelve-trial game to decide the next ruler among the gods. A game where survival is not guaranteed. It's worth noting that snark seems to be the only way to catch Hades' attention—a humorous twist that adds flavor to the story.

The book’s humor and intensity keep the pages turning. Owen excels in world-building and creating vivid characters. The twelve challenges of the Crucible are progressively complex, maintaining the book’s thrilling pace. As Lyra navigates these trials, readers stay engaged, trying to anticipate which abilities will lead her to victory, who will fall, and who will reach the finish line.

This book offers a bit of everything. It's not a typical enemies-to-lovers story, but rather a business arrangement that gets spicy. The side characters are integral to the plot, making you both love and mourn them. The promise of a sequel is exciting, as there’s clearly much more story to be told.

Despite not being a typical rereader, I found myself contemplating a reread to catch nuances I might have missed the first time. The Game of Gods is an intense, brutal, and unforgettable read.

The Game of Gods is a gripping tale that intertwines the intensity of mortal challenges with the whimsical nature of Greek mythology. Its humor, depth, and complex characters make it a standout novel, leaving readers eager for more. If you're a fan of high-stakes games and intricate world-building, this book is a must-read.

In the Company of Witches

Title: In the Company of Witches
Author: Auralee Wallace
Published: October 19, 2021 by Berkley
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 336 Pages
Genre: Paranormal
Series: Evenfall Witches B&B #1

First Sentence: "I'm going to kill her."

Blurb: For four hundred years, the Warren witches have used their magic to quietly help the citizens of the sleepy New England town of Evenfall thrive. There's never been a problem they couldn't handle. But then Constance Graves--a local known for being argumentative and demanding--dies while staying at the bed and breakfast Brynn Warren maintains with her aunts. At first, it seems like an accident...but it soon becomes clear that there's something more sinister at work, and Aunt Nora is shaping up to be the prime suspect.

There's nothing Brynn wants more than to prove Nora's innocence, and it hurts her to know that even two years ago that might have been easier. Brynn, after all, is a witch of the dead--a witch who can commune with ghosts. Ghosts never remember much about their deaths, but Constance might remember something about her life that would help crack the case. But Brynn hasn't used her powers since her husband died, and isn't even sure she still can. Brynn will just have to hope that her aunts' magic and her own investigative skills will lead her to answers--and maybe back to the gift she once thought herself ready to give up forever.

My Opinion: The reader is introduced to a complex web of characters, relationships, and locations that can be difficult to untangle. The Warren sisters, Nora and Izzy, along with their niece Brynn, run a bed and breakfast in the quaint New England town of Evenfall and use their magic to subtly aid the townsfolk.

The story centers around Brynn, who has lost her ability to communicate with the dead following the sudden death of her husband and her determination to never use magic again; Aunt Izzy, a kitchen witch who equates spells with recipes; Nora, a garden witch; along with Uncle Gideon, who lives in the attic and can see the past and future, add to the eclectic mix of personalities and magical talents.

The plot kicks into gear when Constance, a guest at the B&B, is murdered. Brynn's internal battle to suppress her magic adds depth to her character since it tries to break through her walls. Without the use of her powers, her inability to connect with the dead complicates the investigation. The appearance of toads, a harbinger of trouble, hints at deep-seated family discord possibly linked to the murder. Izzy's denial of her magical abilities forces her to rely on traditional investigation methods to clear her aunt's name. This effort is short-lived, however, as she eventually embraces her magic to heal herself and others.

What began with promise—a mix of mystery and magic—soon devolves into a sluggish midsection with an ending that felt rushed and unsatisfying. The multitudes of characters and complex relationships initially engage but ultimately contribute to the sense of a story that loses steam and direction. Despite these shortcomings, the book's exploration of healing and personal growth offers some redeeming qualities, but not enough to fully deliver its initial promise.

The Penderwicks

Title: The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy
Author: Jeanne Birdsall
Published: March 1, 2007 by Yearling
Format: Paperback, 262 Pages
Genre: Children's Fiction

First Sentence: For a long time after that summer, the four Penderwick sisters still talked of Arundel.

Blurb: The Penderwick sisters busily discover the summertime magic of Arundel estate’s sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts. Best of all is Jeffrey Tifton, son of Arundel’s owner, the perfect companion for their adventures. Icy-hearted Mrs. Tifton is less pleased with the Penderwicks than Jeffrey, and warns the new friends to stay out of trouble. Is that any fun? For sure the summer will be unforgettable.

My Opinion: I approached The Penderwicks with certain expectations but found it didn’t quite satisfy the itch I was hoping to scratch. The pace felt slow and while the story doesn't specify an exact year, it has a timeless, nostalgic ambiance.

The charm lies in its focus on the Penderwick sisters—Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty—and their summer vacation adventures and relationships. This innocence is appealing, but I found the convenience of their mother’s passing a bit contrived and unnecessary. I don’t believe that the story would read any differently if the mother hadn’t passed soon after Batty’s birth.

The plot tends to be predictable, and the overall tone feels idealized and slightly old-fashioned considering that the book took place, according to the author, in the early 2000’s. Despite these criticisms, there is an undeniable sweetness in the portrayal of the girls, making the narrative heartwarming in its simplicity.

While The Penderwicks didn’t fully meet my expectations, its nostalgic, timeless setting and the charming depiction of sisterly bonds offer a certain appeal. It may not have been the perfect fit for me, but its gentle and sweet nature could still capture the hearts of many readers.

The charm lies in its focus on the Penderwick sisters—Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty—and their summer vacation adventures and relationships. This innocence is appealing, but I found the convenience of their mother’s passing a bit contrived and hard to swallow. I don’t believe that the story would read any differently if the mother hadn’t passed soon after Batty’s birth.

The plot tends to be predictable, and the overall tone feels idealized and slightly old-fashioned considering that the book took place, according to the author, in the early 2000’s. Despite these criticisms, there is an undeniable sweetness in the portrayal of the girls, making the narrative heartwarming in its simplicity.

While The Penderwicks didn’t fully meet my expectations, its nostalgic, timeless setting and the charming depiction of sisterly bonds offer a certain appeal. It may not have been the perfect fit for me, but its gentle and sweet nature could still capture the hearts of many readers.

An Academy for Liars

Title: An Academy for Liars
Author: Alexis Henderson
Published: September 17, 2024 by Ace
Format: Kindle, Hardcover, 464 Pages
Genre: Dark Academia
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: There was something in the bathroom mirrors.

Blurb: Lennon Carter’s life is falling apart.

Then she gets a mysterious phone call inviting her to take the entrance exam for Drayton College, a school of magic hidden in a secret pocket of Savannah. Lennon has been chosen because—like everyone else at the school—she has the innate gift of persuasion, the ability to wield her will like a weapon, using it to control others and, in rare cases, matter itself.

After passing the test, Lennon begins to learn how to master her devastating and unsettling power. But despite persuasion’s heavy toll on her body and mind, she is wholly captivated by her studies, by Drayton’s lush, moss-draped campus, and by her brilliant classmates. But even more captivating is her charismatic adviser, Dante, who both intimidates and enthralls her.

As Lennon continues in her studies her control grows, and she starts to uncover more about the secret world she has entered into, including the disquieting history of Drayton College, and the way her mentor’s tragic and violent past intertwines with it. She is increasingly disturbed by what she learns. For it seems that the ultimate test is to embrace absolute power without succumbing to corruption . . . and it's a test she's terrified she is going to fail.

My Opinion: This book is a masterclass in unexpected twists and turns. Just as you think you’ve settled into a rhythm; Henderson throws in a curveball that answers lingering questions while simultaneously setting your mind spinning in new directions.

Set in Drayton College, a hidden private academy located in the secretive 25th ward of Savannah—an area uncharted on any map—the narrative unfolds within this isolated world. The students gathered from around the globe, possess extraordinary talents, the type that fuel the ambitions of powerful figures.

Lennon Carter enters this world in disarray. Fresh from discovering her fiancé in a compromising situation with her best friend during their engagement party, Lennon stumbles upon a mysterious phone booth in an abandoned mall. The call she receives informs her of her acceptance into a college she never applied to, plunging her into the enigmatic Drayton College.

Her advisor, Dante Lowe, becomes a complex figure in her life. Their relationship evolves in the expected way in books of this genre and is further complicated by Dante’s undisclosed past. Drayton College’s motto seems to be that if you excel in persuasion, your past is irrelevant.

Lennon's first year is fraught with chaotic challenges, not just academically but personally, as she learns to navigate the intense and often brutal environment of Drayton. The book does not shy away from violence, highlighting the struggle of the students as they come to terms with their innate abilities and the explosive emotions that accompany them.

One of the book’s most captivating aspects is its unpredictability. The middle may have felt a bit slow at times, but that was only to prepare you for the ending which delivers a punch that leaves a lasting impact.

An Academy for Liars stands out as one of my top reads of the year for its intensity and the memorable twists that keep me holding my breath.

Though it’s listed as a standalone, the world Henderson has created is ripe with potential for a sequel.

The Bookshop of Hidden Dreams

Title: The Bookshop of Hidden Dreams
Author: Karen Hawkins
Published: August 27, 2024 by Gallery Books
Format: Kindle, 384 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Dove Pond #4

First Paragraph: Tay Dove returned to Dove Point early one frosty February evening. She didn’t go straight home, though. Instead, she headed for her special place: Rose’s bookstore.

Blurb: When an antique tin of love letters is found hidden in her family home, noted historian Tay Dove rushes home to Dove Pond to investigate. Tay is still reeling from a romantic betrayal, so she’s relieved to refocus her energies on her latest a biography of her great-great-grandmother Sarafina, a star reporter who began her career in Dove Pond in the late 19th century before abruptly leaving town.

Tay believes the letters could be the key in solving what happened, but they only add to her questions—especially when they reveal a forbidden love affair with William Day, a wild youth who took part in a notorious train robbery. Some answers might be found in eighty-year-old Rose Day’s bookshop, which doubles as a town archive, but Rose is curiously resistant to give Tay access. Just when Tay thinks she’s reached a dead end, she finds an unlikely ally in Rose’s grandson, Luke, a fellow puzzle lover. Together, they set out to uncover what really happened all those years ago…and find the truth behind a love story that could be more precious than gold.

My Opinion: Having followed this series since the debut novel, The Book Charmer, I've found myself consistently drawn to the Dove sisters, their unique abilities, and the charming town they call home. There's magic in how Karen Hawkins crafts her characters and their world that keeps me returning for more.

In this installment, Taylor “Tay” Dove, reeling from a one-sided relationship with Richard, which has left her wary and in need of personal growth, has returned home. She is determined to spend the next month, or so, immersed in the tin of letters discovered in the family home. With her Dove ability, she aims to uncover more about her ancestor, Sarafina Dove.

Meanwhile, Luke Day has put his career in cybersecurity aside to return home and adopt his niece following the imprisonment of her mother. He is also there to support his grandmother despite Rose's reluctance to admit it. The slow-burn romance between Tay and Luke is charming, with Luke struggling with his feelings and Tay working through her insecurities brought on by Richard's betrayal.

I particularly enjoyed the little puzzle with the anagram—it added an engaging twist to the story. However, I did find the middle part of the book to drag a bit, and the ending felt somewhat rushed. Despite this, the novel is a fun and clean read, perfect for those who prefer more sweetness than spice in their stories.

Casket Case

Title: Casket Case
Author: Lauren Evans
Published: September 10, 2024 by Dell
Format: Kindle, Paperback 398 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: “Thank you for calling Death,” a perky voice announced trough the car’s speakers.

Blurb: Nora thought she was finished with Rabbittown, Alabama, for good. But an unexpected tragedy turned her life upside down, and she's found herself back in her tiny hometown running the family casket business.

There aren't exactly a lot of prospects for a single woman in her thirties in a place like Rabbittown. Until Nora Clanton's ordinary, casket-selling day is interrupted by a handsome stranger wandering into her shop and asking for directions--as well as a date.

Garrett Bishop seems like the ideal guy. He's thoughtful, he's kind, and he has a lucrative job as a logistics coordinator, for which he seems to have a passion. She's not totally sure what "logistics" entails, but she knows it means long hours, lots of travel, and urgent calls in the middle of the night.

When a few of Rabbittown's residents suddenly pass away--a heart attack here, a car crash there--and Garrett is spotted at the scenes of, well, all of the deaths, his frustratingly vague job description starts to become increasingly . . . suspicious. What is it that Garrett actually does for a living?

He's a logistics coordinator for Death.

When Nora discovers the truth, she is unable to reconcile the wonderful man she knows with the unthinkably cruel job he loves. Will she ever be able to understand how he can do what he does, or will she have to lay her best chance at love to rest?

My Opinion: Nora, a 30-something owner of a casket store in the small town of Rabbittown, Alabama, finds herself unwittingly entangled in a whirlwind romance with Garrett, the Director of Logistics for Death.

The relationship between Nora and Garrett progresses at a rapid pace, making it feel problematic and unconvincing. The lack of development and depth in their relationship is a significant drawback.

The book suffers from noticeable editing oversights. For instance, in one chapter, Nora explicitly states her dislike for tomato sauce. Yet, two chapters later, she is seen making pizza with “pizza sauce.” Isn’t pizza sauce essentially tomato sauce? This and additional inconsistencies disrupt the reading experience and raise questions about the editorial process.

A quarter of the way through, the book’s tone feels reminiscent of a high school drama. While it might be categorized as women’s fiction, the writing and plot development lack the sophistication expected from a well-crafted story in this genre.

One of the few redeeming qualities of the book is its occasional sprinkling of humor which adds a touch of wit to an otherwise lackluster narrative.

The epilogue introduces a surprising twist related to family history. There was a hint of this midway through the book, but it is abruptly sprung on Nora in the literal last pages, leaving the reader feeling blindsided and unsatisfied.

“Casket Case” had the potential to be an engaging read, but it falls short due to its pacing, inconsistent character development, and editing issues. If it weren’t for the rare moments of humor, this would have been a definite DNF for me.

Hard to Kill

Title: Hard to Kill
Author: James Patterson, Mike Lupica
Published: July 29, 2024 by Little, Brown and Company
Format: Hardcover,page 384 Pages
Genre: Legal Thriller
Series: Jane Smith #2

First Sentence: Jimmy Cunniff calls to tell me to get dressed we’re taking a ride.

Blurb: Attorney Jane Smith is mounting an impossible criminal defense.

Her client, Rob Jacobson, is the unluckiest of the unlucky. No sooner is he accused of killing a family of three in the Hamptons than a second family is gunned down.

It’s not double jeopardy. It’s not double murder. It’s double triple homicide.

Jane’s career has spanned from NYPD beat cop to Hamptons courtroom. She’s tough to beat. She’s even tougher to kill.

My Opinion: Reading this book felt like a never-ending journey without a clear point.

The storyline meandered through a series of crimes without offering more than housecleaning. From the start, the narrative is filled with monotony – the crime that kicks the book off, cancer, more death, more cancer, more death. Then, the last chapter of Oh, look, the person behind it all.

A key point for readers is that the first and second books in this series are direct continuations of one another and should ideally be read back-to-back due to their tight narrative connection. The year-long gap between publications only adds to the confusion.

I also struggled to distinguish this series from James Comey’s Nora Carlton series. Since both narratives are similar, keeping them separate was challenging.

Hard to Kill reminded me of when you flip through a magazine, eager to skip the ads and get to the content. Instead, it meandered through detailed descriptions of New York locations, name-dropping brands, and venues, while the plot remained thin and vague. The numerous characters and their intricate connections became overwhelming, almost requiring a notebook to keep track.

This book reads more like a filler than a gripping thriller. Patterson originally intended the series to be a trilogy but vaguely promised the continuation of the series if the sales remained high. Unless book three comes out of the gates strong, I can’t see a need to go much further.

Ultimately, Hard to Kill fell short of its potential. The constant diversions and fillers made it a tedious read rather than engaging with a compelling story. Given the rambling nature and overwhelming cast of characters, I’d recommend giving this one a pass.

The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love

Title: The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love
Author: India Holton
Published: July 23, 2024 by Berkley
Format: Kindle, Paperback 384 Pages
Genre: Historical Fantasy Rom-Com
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Love's Academic #1

First Sentence: It was a fine day for birding.

Blurb: Rival ornithologists hunt through England for a rare magical bird in this historical-fantasy rom-com reminiscent of Indiana Jones but with manners, tea, and helicopter parasols.

Beth Pickering is on the verge of finally capturing the rare deathwhistler bird when Professor Devon Lockley swoops in, capturing both her bird and her imagination like a villain. Albeit a handsome and charming villain, but that's beside the point. As someone highly educated in the ruthless discipline of ornithology, Beth knows trouble when she sees it, and she is determined to keep her distance from Devon.

For his part, Devon has never been more smitten than when he first set eyes on Professor Beth Pickering. She's so pretty, so polite, so capable of bringing down a fiery, deadly bird using only her wits. In other words, an angel. Devon understands he must not get close to her, however, since they're professional rivals.

When a competition to become Birder of the Year by capturing an endangered caladrius bird is announced, Beth and Devon are forced to team up to have any chance of winning. Now keeping their distance becomes a question of one bed or two. But they must take the risk, because fowl play is afoot, and they can't trust anyone else—for all may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology.

My Opinion: *A delightful oddity of a book. It took me nearly halfway through to fully wrap my head around the multiple layers, but once I did, it was a fun ride! Imagine a mash-up of historical fiction, fantasy, and rom-com, with characters that feel like a quirky blend of Veronica Speedwell and Stoker, or Emily Wilde and Wendell Bambleby.

Takes place in late 19th century England, two rival and celebrated ornithologists, Beth Pickering and Devon Lockley, are on a wild and hilarious quest for a magical bird. Lockley is charming and handsome, sure, but also a total rival. Beth, being the genius she is, decides to keep her distance. Devon, however, is completely smitten by Beth’s brilliance and beauty. But, professional rivals, right? They can’t get too close… or can they?

There is now a new competition to capture the endangered caladrius bird. Beth and Devon are forced to team up, and suddenly, keeping their distance isn’t so easy. One bed or two? Decisions, decisions. But with "fowl" play afoot, they have no choice but to trust each other. And let me tell you, the humor and spice in this enemies-to-lovers tale are just perfect.

I had a real “duh” moment when I finally got the secondary meaning of the book’s title, or at least what I think it is. Sometimes I can be so dense! But once I did, it added a whole new layer to the story, especially with the publicists acting as puppet masters. Despite my initial confusion, I ended up loving this book. And yes, I will continue with the series. We’ll meet new characters in the next installment, one of whom is already introduced in The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love. A crossover series? Count me in!

Reading Between the Lies

Title: Reading Between the Lies
Author: Lynn Cahoon
Published: August 6, 2024 by Kensington
Format: Kindle, Paperback 201 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Survivors' Book Club Mystery #4

First Sentence: Rarity Cole loved date night.

Blurb: Bookshop owner Rarity Cole is living her best life after surviving cancer—hosting book clubs, classes, and parties at her store, The Next Chapter, and giving back to her community in Sedona, Arizona. But an awkward outing to an art gallery is about to add a dark slant to the picture . . .

Rarity is grateful for many things and people in her new life, including her friend Shirley, who is helping to provide backpacks and supplies for kids going back to school. But Shirley needs a big favor. With her husband in a memory-care home, she wants to attend an art opening with a male friend but fears local gossip. She asks Rarity, her friend Sam, and their boyfriends to come along as cover. It would be fun if not for the fact that the two couples are barely speaking…

The evening proceeds without any social disasters. But the featured artist—who struck Rarity as more of a spoiled playboy—is later found dead with an arrow in his back. Any lingering tensions must be set aside so the amateur sleuths can find an archer who may have taken the idea of pointed criticism a bit too literally. (GoodReads)

My Opinion: Reading Between the Lies by Lynn Cahoon left me feeling quite disappointed. I’m unsure if my tastes have evolved or if Cahoon’s writing has declined, but her recent books, including this one, haven’t resonated with me. The story feels more like a rough draft, filled with disjointed ideas and tangents, rather than a polished narrative with engaging characters and a plausible plot.

Given that Cahoon has published over 40 books and is an award-winning author, I expected much more. Unfortunately, I only made it halfway through Reading Between the Lies before resorting to skimming the rest. By the end, I was indifferent to the plot, the characters, and the setting.

I think I’ve reached my limit with this series. However, I plan to give her Tourist Trap series one more chance before deciding whether Lynn Cahoon remains on my TBR list. Here’s hoping for a return to the engaging storytelling that initially drew me to her work.

Shades of Mercy

Title: Shades of Mercy
Author: Bruce Borgos
Published: July 16, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 352 Pages
Genre: Police Procedural
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Porter Beck #2

First Sentence: At 92,000 feet, the Vulture suddenly developed a mind of its own.

Blurb: Porter Beck is the sheriff in the high desert of Nevada, doing the same lawman's job his father once did now that he's returned home after decades away. With his twelve person department, they cover a large area that is usually very quiet, but not of late. One childhood friend is the latest to succumb to a new wave of particularly strong illegal opioids, another childhood friend—now an enormously successful rancher—is targeted by a military drone, hacked and commandeered by an unknown source. The hacker is apparently local—local enough to call out Beck by name—and that means they are Beck's problem.

Beck's investigation leads him to Mercy Vaughn, the one known hacker in the area. The problem is that she's a teenager, locked up with no computer access at the secure juvenile detention center. But there's something Mercy that doesn't sit quite right with Beck. But when Mercy disappears, Beck understands that she's in danger and time is running out for all of them.

My Opinion: Shades of Mercy by Bruce Borgos is a must-read that will captivate you from the very first page. Borgos, an author who truly deserves more recognition, has crafted a story that is both gripping and unforgettable.

The novel centers on Sheriff Porter Beck, a determined lawman facing the challenges of a degenerative illness. His unwavering resolve and straightforward approach are truly admirable. Beck’s sister, with her courage and determination, adds another layer of depth to the story. The community’s steadfast support for their sheriff, always ready to lend a hand, is both touching and integral to the plot.

The book features several graphic and intense scenes, but they are essential to the storyline and never feel gratuitous. Borgos strikes a perfect balance, incorporating just enough technology to intrigue without overwhelming the reader.

One of the most thrilling aspects is the raging fire that threatens the team. This, combined with the presence of some dubious characters, creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere as they work to rescue those in over their heads.

I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book, The Blue Horse, expected in the summer of 2025. If it’s anything like Shades of Mercy, it promises to be another enthralling read.

Book Lovers

Title: Book Lovers
Author: Emily Henry
Published: May 3, 2022 by Berkley
Format: Hardcover, 377 Pages
Genre: Romance

First Sentence: When books are your life—or in my case, your job— you get pretty good at guessing where a story is going.

Blurb: Nora Stephens’ life is books—she’s read them all—and she is not that type of heroine. Not the plucky one, not the laidback dream girl, and especially not the sweetheart. In fact, the only people Nora is a heroine for are her clients, for whom she lands enormous deals as a cutthroat literary agent, and her beloved little sister Libby.

Which is why she agrees to go to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina for the month of August when Libby begs her for a sisters’ trip away—with visions of a small-town transformation for Nora, who she’s convinced needs to become the heroine in her own story. But instead of picnics in meadows, or run-ins with a handsome country doctor or bulging-forearmed bartender, Nora keeps bumping into Charlie Lastra, a bookish brooding editor from back in the city. It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute.

If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s nobody’s hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.

My Opinion: I absolutely loved the banter in the early part of Book Lovers. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Nora and Charlie was engaging and filled with witty exchanges that kept me hooked. However, when the storyline shifted to focus more on family drama, I found myself losing interest. The transition from the sharp, humorous interactions to the more serious family issues felt jarring.

As expected, the book concluded with a happily ever after, but I found the last quarter of the book to be slow and somewhat uninteresting. The pacing seemed to drag, and the resolution felt predictable.

I know that romance books are not typically my genre, but I keep trying them in hopes that one day, I’ll find one that truly resonates with me. Despite my mixed feelings about Book Lovers, I appreciate the effort to blend romance with deeper themes, even if it didn’t quite hit the mark for me this time.

Murder at the White Palace

Title: Murder at the White Palace
Author: Allison Montclair
Published: July 30, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 320 Pages
Genre: Historical Mystery
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Sparks & Bainbridge Mystery #6

First Sentence: “I’ve just had the most wonderful idea!” said Gwen.

Blurb: In post-WWII London, the matchmakers of The Right Sort Marriage Bureau are involved in yet another murder.In the immediate post-war days of London, two unlikely partners have undertaken an even more unlikely, if necessary, business venture—The Right Sort Marriage Bureau. The two partners are Miss Iris Sparks, a woman with a dangerous—and never discussed—past in British intelligence and Mrs. Gwendolyn Bainbridge, a genteel war widow with a young son entangled in a complicated aristocratic family. Looking to throw a New Year’s Eve soiree for their clients, Sparks and Bainbridge scout an empty building—only to find a body contained in the walls. What they initially assume is a victim of the recent Blitz is uncovered instead to be a murder victim—stabbed several times.To make matters worse, the owner of the building is Sparks’ beau, Archie Spelling, who has ties to a variety of enterprises on the right and wrong sides of the law, and the main investigator for the police is her ex-fiancée. Gwen, too, is dealing with her own complicated love life, as she tentatively steps back into the dating pool for the first time since her husband’s death. Murder is not something they want to add to their plates, but the murderer may be closer to home than is comfortable, and they must do all they can to protect their clients, their business and themselves.

My Opinion: This was my least favorite of all the Sparks & Bainbridge books. The “whodunit” part was, I’m not going to say obvious, but it was close. I missed the witty banter that usually characterizes the series. Sparks suddenly becoming all soft and mushy was a turn-off for me. I enjoyed her strength and no-nonsense approach to life, so seeing her get gushy didn’t appeal to me at all.

However, I did enjoy that Bainbridge has grown a backbone. She was able to keep her cool and play a player without the reader being two steps ahead. This development in her character was refreshing and added a new layer to the story.

Yes, I will read the next book, but I certainly hope that Sparks gets her edge back. I miss the sharp, resilient character she used to be.

First Frost

Title: First Frost
Author: Craig Johnson
Published: May 28, 2024 by Viking
Format: Kindle, 333 pages
Genre: Police Procedural
Series: Longmire #20

First Sentence: “You’re too big to surf.”

Blurb: It’s the summer of 1964, and recent college graduates Walt Longmire and Henry Standing Bear read the writing on the wall and enlist to serve in the Vietnam War. As they catch a few final waves in California before reporting for duty, a sudden storm assaults the shores and capsizes a nearby cargo boat. Walt and Henry jump to action, but it’s soon revealed by the police who greet them ashore that the sunken boat carried valuable contraband from underground sources.

The boys, in their early twenties and in the peak of their physical prowess from playing college football for the last four years, head out on Route 66. The question, of course, is how far they will get before the consequences of their actions catch up to them—the answer being, not very.

Back in the present day, Walt is forced to speak before a Judge following the fatal events of The Longmire Defense. With powerful enemies lurking behind the scenes, the sheriff of Absaroka County must consider his options if he wishes to finish the fight he started.

Going back and forth between 1964 and the present day, Craig Johnson brings us a propulsive dual timeline as Walt Longmire stands between the crossfire of good and evil, law and anarchy, and compassion and cruelty at two pivotal stages in his life.

My Opinion Maybe I am the last to do the math. But if Walt was 22 in 1964, that would make him 82 in present day. Nope. That is not consistent with the physical demands each book puts him through or his relationship with Vic the Holy Terror.

When a novel is written as a dual timeline, I feel guilty when I enjoy one timeline better than the other. The writing is the same, it’s just that one always captures my attention more than the other. The narrative shifts between two timelines: the present and the summer of 1964. In the present, continuing on from The Longmire Defense, Sheriff Walt Longmire faces an investigation after a fatal shooting involving a member of a powerful family, bringing intense scrutiny. In the past, Walt, and his friend Henry Standing Bear, fresh from college and about to enlist for the Vietnam War, find themselves stranded in the eerie town of Bone Valley, Arizona.

Highlighting Walt’s early days and showcases bravery and determination beyond his years, he uncovers dark secrets in Bone Valley, including a sinister plot involving drug smugglers and a former judge who controls the town. The story also touches on the historical context of World War II internment camps for Japanese Americans, adding depth and a history lesson to the plot.

The way this book ended, the reader wonders if a character, that first appeared in The Longmire Defense and made a small appearance in this book, will be at the forefront of Walt seeking out justice. Then again, it’s not the first time an author left a dangly part and never addressed it again. It looks like we will have to wait until spring of next year to find out what Walt is up to.