If Cats Disappeared from the World

Title: If Cats Disappeared from the World
Author: Genki Kawamura
Published: September 20, 2018 by Picador
Format: Hardcover, 202 Pages
Genre: Fiction

Blurb: Our narrator’s days are numbered. Estranged from his family, living alone with only his cat Cabbage for company, he was unprepared for the doctor’s diagnosis that he has only months to live. But before he can set about tackling his bucket list, the Devil appears with a special offer: in exchange for making one thing in the world disappear, he can have one extra day of life. And so begins a very bizarre week.

Because how do you decide what makes life worth living? How do you separate out what you can do without from what you hold dear? In dealing with the Devil our narrator will take himself – and his beloved cat – to the brink. Genki Kawamura's If Cats Disappeared from the World is a story of loss and reconciliation, of one man’s journey to discover what really matters in modern life.

My Opinion: A quirky and thought-provoking tale. The narrator, an unnamed postman receives a terminal diagnosis, only to return home to find the Devil—dressed in a Hawaiian shirt, of all things—waiting at his door. Nicknamed “Aloha,” the Devil offers him a deal: for each item he agrees to erase from existence, he gains an extra day of life.

The narrator’s choices for what to eliminate were not the things I would have chosen. Then again, that would make it a two-page book. The items chosen aren’t grand or dramatic. Yet, it’s in these unexpected decisions that the story probes deeper questions about what gives life meaning and what we’re willing to sacrifice.

Then comes the ending—abrupt, messy, and open-ended. It’s the kind of conclusion that leaves you filling in the blanks, imagining how things play out. For some, it might feel unfinished, but for me, it was perfect. It leaves the possibilities wide open, staying true to the narrator and the story’s themes.

At its heart, Kawamura’s book is an odd little gem, offering a fresh perspective on life, loss, and love. It’s not for everyone, but its quirks and emotional depth make it a story that lingers in your mind long after you’ve put it down.

No Roast for the Weary

Title: No Roast for the Weary
Author: Cleo Coyle
Published: April 1, 2025, by Berkley
Format: Kindle, 368 pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Coffeehouse Mystery (#21)

Blurb: As much as master roaster Clare Cosi adores coffee, the landmark shop she manages won't survive if she doesn't sell enough of it. So when the Village Blend's customer traffic grinds to a halt, she turns to her staff for creative ideas, and the Writer's Block Lounge is born.

Madame, the eccentric octogenarian owner of the shop, is upset by this news. Years ago, a group of accomplished writers used the shop's second-floor lounge to inspire each other, but the group disbanded when something dark occurred. Though that history is shrouded in mystery, Clare presses forward...

Soon the Village Blend tables are filled with aspiring novelists, playwrights, and poets, all happy to be coaxed, cajoled, and caffeinated by her coffeehouse crew. Clare admires the stamina of these scribes, many of them toiling at night jobs—driving taxis, tending bar, ushering for Broadway—while penning projects during the day.

Then one of their fictions turns fatal when a shocking secret leads to a deadly end. Unless Clare can untangle this mystery, uncover the truth, and stop a desperate killer, she fears more of these weary writers may be marked for eternal rest.

My Opinion: As the 21st book in the Coffeehouse Mysteries series, No Roast for the Weary brings readers back to the Village Blend. While Alice Alfonsi and Marc Cerasini (the duo behind Cleo Coyle) do a solid job introducing new readers to the coffeehouse's history and its quirky found family, longtime fans might feel like they're treading familiar ground.

The story is set post-pandemic, with Clare struggling to keep the Village Blend afloat as customers stay home instead of enjoying their coffee in a third space. It’s a relatable setup for the times, but the plot stalls in its execution. There’s plenty of atmosphere—almost too much—as the pages are filled with descriptions and repetitive details that make it hard to stay engaged.

Early on, the story hints at an old unsolved murder, adds a dramatic mental break from one of the regulars, and throws in an alleyway attack for good measure. Clare, along with her flamboyant barista Esther, dives in headfirst—as always—to save the day, even rescuing a duck in the process. While these moments have their charm, they’re buried under slow pacing and excessive descriptions that drag the story down.

Thankfully, things pick up towards the end. The final chapters pull the threads together and offer a satisfying payoff that makes the effort feel worthwhile—though it’s hard to ignore how much of the book felt unnecessary. Recipes and tips in the last section are a fun bonus, but they don’t make up for the sluggish pace.

For devoted fans, No Roast for the Weary might test your patience. While the series still has its moments, the writing feels tired, and it’s hard not to wonder if the authors are as restless as the readers. If you’re new to the Coffeehouse Mysteries, On What Grounds, is a good place to start. But for longtime readers, this installment leaves you wondering if it’s time to find a new favorite series.

The Third Rule of Time Travel

Title: The Third Rule of Time Travel
Author: Philip Fracassi
Published: March 18, 2025 by Orbit
Format: Kindle, Paperback 336 Pages
Genre: Science Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Blurb: Scientist Beth Darlow has discovered the unimaginable. She's built a machine that allows human consciousness to travel through time—to any point in the traveler's lifetime—and relive moments of their life. An impossible breakthrough, but it's not perfect: the traveler has no way to interact with the past. They can only observe.

After Beth's husband, Colson, the co-creator of the machine, dies in a tragic car accident, Beth is left to raise Isabella—their only daughter—and continue the work they started. Mired in grief and threatened by her ruthless CEO, Beth pushes herself to the limit to prove the value of her technology.

Then the impossible happens. Simply viewing personal history should not alter the present, but with each new observation she makes, her own timeline begins to warp.

As her reality constantly shifts, Beth must solve the puzzles of her past, even if it means forsaking her future.

My Opinion: What starts as a seemingly straightforward science fiction techno-thriller transforms into something much more intricate—multiple timelines, blurred realities, and a dash of supernatural intrigue. The novel combines themes of despair, manipulation, and the fragile thread of agency into a narrative that keeps you guessing until the very last page.

I thought I was stepping into a futuristic world. Chapter 3 name-drops the year 2044, which conjures visions of gleaming cities, flying cars, and revolutionary technology. But here's the kicker: the setting is ordinary. No Jetson-esque hovercrafts, no dazzling breakthroughs – Well, other than the time travel parts. This leaves the timeline slightly ambiguous—is it the future, or is this contemporary fiction disguised in futuristic clothing? It’s unclear whether the author intended this sense of uncertainty, but it adds a layer of intrigue to the story.

About halfway through the book, I found myself wondering: where’s the hook? The plot felt deceptively simple, almost too comfortable in its slow pace. But then came the twists—one after another, like dominos I didn’t realize had been set in motion. Just when you think you’ve figured out where it’s heading, the book blindsides you with another twist. The rush to the end is a whirlwind of shock and exhilaration, leaving you breathless and unsure of what’s real and what’s another illusion. It’s the kind of book that lingers long after you’ve closed the cover.

If you’re searching for a book that will ignite debates in a reading group, this might be it. The Third Rule of Time Travel is bound to spark discussions—and maybe even disagreements—about its twists, its themes, and its many layers. But one thing’s for sure: boring, it is not.

The Bane Witch

Title: The Bane Witch
Author: Ava Morgyn
Published: March 18, 2025 by St. Martin's Griffin
Format: Kindle, Paperback 384 Pages
Genre: Witches and Murder
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Blurb: Piers Corbin has always had an affinity for poisonous things - plants and men. From the pokeweed berries she consumed at age five that led to the accidental death of a stranger, to the husband whose dark proclivities have become… concerning, poison has been at the heart of her story. But when she fakes her own death in an attempt to escape her volatile marriage and goes to stay with her estranged great aunt in the mountains, she realizes her predilection is more than a hunger - it’s a birthright. Piers comes from a long line of poison eaters - Bane Witches – women who ingest deadly plants and use their magic to rid the world of evil men. Piers sets out to earn her place in her family’s gritty but distinguished legacy, all while working at her Aunt Myrtle’s cafe and perpetuating a flirtation with the local, well-meaning sheriff to allay his suspicions on the body count she’s been leaving in her wake. But soon she catches the attention of someone else, a serial killer operating in the area. And that only means one thing - it’s time to feed. In Ava Morgyn’s dark, thrilling novel, The Bane Witch, a very little poison can do a world of good.

My Opinion: This was a bit of a missed opportunity. Right out of the gate, the first few chapters felt rough—like reading a choppy draft instead of a polished novel. Sections felt rushed, almost like ideas were sketched out but never finished. Honestly, it had me on the edge of calling it quits (DNF, anyone?). But against my better judgment, I kept going.

At around 30%, I gave the writing a second chance. And, surprise—I started warming up to Piers/Acacia (she changed her name). Or maybe it was Myrtle who kept me hanging on. Still, the dual police storylines felt like a bit of a slog. Instead of pulling me in, they just dragged on, demanding my patience.

I couldn’t help thinking this standalone novel might’ve worked better as a duology. Around chapter 31 (in the ARC), the tone shifts, and it felt like a natural place to end a first book—after a good cleanup, of course—and breathe new life into a second one. Splitting the story might’ve given it room to develop instead of trying to cram it all in.

The thing about reading ARCs is you never know—will these glaring issues be fixed in the final release, or is this as good as it gets? There were moments where logic went out the window, sentences tripped over themselves, and continuity problems left me scratching my head. How did that sweatshirt in the car even make sense? It’s hard to tell if the author skipped the research or just decided to wing it, but some parts felt like they were asking me to suspend a lot of disbelief.

So, will I read more from this author? Eh, probably not. The potential was there, but the execution just didn’t click for me. It’s a shame because I wanted to enjoy it more than I did.

Rebel Witch

Title: Rebel Witch
Author: Kristen Ciccarelli
Published: February 18, 2025 by Wednesday Books
Format: Hardcover, 464 Pages
Genre: YA Fantasy
Series: The Crimson Moth #2

Blurb: A WITCH... Rune Winters is on the run. Ever since the boy she loved, Gideon Sharpe, revealed who she was and delivered her into enemy hands, everyone wants her dead. If Rune hopes to survive, she must ally herself with the cruel and dangerous Cressida Roseblood, who’s planning to take back the Republic and reinstate a Reign of Witches—something Cressida needs Rune to accomplish.

A WITCH HUNTER... Apparently it wasn’t enough for Rune to deceive Gideon; she’s now betrayed him by allying herself with the witch who made his life a living hell. Gideon won’t allow the Republic to fall to the witches and be plunged back into the nightmares of the past. In order to protect this new world he fought for, every last witch must die—especially Rune Winters.

AN IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE... When Rune makes Gideon an offer he can’t refuse, the two must pair up to accomplish dangerous goals. The more they’re forced into each other’s company, the more Gideon realizes the feelings he had for Rune aren’t as dead and buried as he thought. Now he’s faced with a terrible choice: sacrifice the girl he loves to stop a monster taking back power, or let Rune live and watch the world he fought so hard for burn.

My Opinion: I’m not saying The Rebel Witch was downright awful, but let’s just say it was, at best, a lukewarm finale to this duology that left me wanting the pull of The Heartless Hunter. That book had a pulse that could be felt on every page. This one? Tepid. Like reheated leftovers.

The "surprise" midway? Yeah, no. It was about as shocking as finding out the sky is blue. Anyone remotely paying attention could’ve pieced it together long before the “big reveal.” And as for the final twist, sure, it was interesting, yet, made perfect sense since it was foretold; but by that point, I had already resigned myself.

The banter? Fine. Serviceable, I guess. But let’s be real—this is Teen/YA territory, so any hopes of the snappy, zingy exchanges adult readers crave were dashed early on. As for the dark fantasy label—who are we kidding? This is “dark fantasy lite,” a watered-down version of the genre that barely scratches the surface of its usual complexity. No brooding depth, no haunting themes, no stakes that leave you breathless. Just… fluff with a hint of shadow.

What’s most frustrating is that The Heartless Hunter was such a captivating ride. This book, however, dragged its feet through every chapter, leaving me so unengaged that I found myself turning to other books just to break up the monotony.

The Rebel Witch was a chore to get through. Disappointing doesn’t even begin to cover it. Not sure what Ciccarelli’s future works will be, but here is hoping that she is able to recapture the magic of her Heartless Hunter storytelling.

The Summer Guests

Title: The Summer Guests
Author: Tess Gerritsen
Published: March 18, 2025 by Thomas & Mercer
Format: Kindle, 363 Pages
Genre: Thriller
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: The Martini Club #2

Blurb: When former spy Maggie Bird retired to the seaside hamlet of Purity, Maine, she settled in for a quiet life with breathtaking views. But enemies from her past soon threatened to destroy everything.

Maggie survived, thanks to her wits and the collective intelligence of the Martini Club, the circle of ex-CIA friends in her cocktail-sipping book club. Their handiwork, however, caught the attention of young police chief Jo Thibodeau. Now Jo and her neighborhood ex-spies have an uneasy alliance.

After a teenager vanishes—and Maggie’s neighbor becomes the prime suspect—she joins the investigation, determined to prove her friend’s innocence. But the girl’s wealthy family pushes for an arrest. And when authorities discover a long-dead corpse in a nearby pond, the case becomes doubly complicated, with unthinkable ties to long-buried secrets.

As Jo grapples with two unexplained mysteries, the Martini Club races to uncover the truth behind shadowy secrets…before more lives are lost.

My Opinion: There’s something about a book that refuses to let you predict its path. This novel is exactly that kind of read. It doesn’t stay where it begins—instead, it takes you on a journey that constantly keeps you on your toes.

As a bit of a backstory, The Martini Club is a group of seasoned, razor-sharp minds operating outside the usual constraints of law enforcement. While the local police chief might shake her head in frustration, deep down, she knows they’re indispensable.

Enjoying the previous book, I was ready for this challenge. I had set up my mental murder board. Red strings connecting suspects, timelines plotted, backstories emerging. As Gerritsen began unraveling conspiracies and histories, I’d pause, tilt my head, and think, “Ah, I’ve got it!” Then, I’d unwound the string, shift gears, and head in an entirely new direction. By the time I reached the end, I was sure I had solved it. I was certain it could only be one person. And yet—wrong. Utterly, fantastically wrong. That’s the genius of this book. Its plotting doesn’t hand you the baddie on a silver platter.

Beyond the twists and turns, the book weaves in moments of levity and heart. There’s a touch of humor that brightens the darker themes and a budding romance that’s been quietly simmering for two decades.

This second installment in the series gripped me as tightly as the first. For anyone new to Gerritsen’s Martini Club world, I’d strongly recommend starting with The Spy Coast, which lays the groundwork for the recurring characters. And the best part? This isn’t the end. The next book in the series is scheduled for release late next year.

The Poppy War

Title: The Poppy War
Author: R.F. Kuang
Published: May 1, 2018 by Harper Voyager
Format: Paperback, 544 Pages
Genre: Historical Fantasy
Series: The Poppy War #1

Blurb: An epic historical military fantasy, inspired by the bloody history of China’s twentieth century and filled with treachery and magic.

When Rin aced the Keju—the Empire-wide test to find the most talented youth to learn at the Academies—it was a shock to everyone: to the test officials, who couldn’t believe a war orphan from Rooster Province could pass without cheating; to Rin’s guardians, who believed they’d finally be able to marry her off and further their criminal enterprise; and to Rin herself, who realized she was finally free of the servitude and despair that had made up her daily existence. That she got into Sinegard—the most elite military school in Nikan—was even more surprising.

But surprises aren’t always good.

Because being a dark-skinned peasant girl from the south is not an easy thing at Sinegard. Targeted from the outset by rival classmates for her color, poverty, and gender, Rin discovers she possesses a lethal, unearthly power—an aptitude for the nearly-mythical art of shamanism. Exploring the depths of her gift with the help of a seemingly insane teacher and psychoactive substances, Rin learns that gods long thought dead are very much alive—and that mastering control over those powers could mean more than just surviving school.

For while the Nikara Empire is at peace, the Federation of Mugen still lurks across a narrow sea. The militarily advanced Federation occupied Nikan for decades after the First Poppy War, and only barely lost the continent in the Second. And while most of the people are complacent to go about their lives, a few are aware that a Third Poppy War is just a spark away . . .

Rin’s shamanic powers may be the only way to save her people. But as she finds out more about the god that has chosen her, the vengeful Phoenix, she fears that winning the war may cost her humanity . . . and that it may already be too late.

My Opinion: Whoever labeled The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang as a "romantasy" clearly didn’t crack it open—or at least didn’t make it past the first few chapters. What starts as a slow burn soon ignites into a scorching tale of brutality. Forget sweeping love arcs or lighthearted escapades; this narrative is drenched in mistrust, revenge, unchecked ego, and the unflinching resolve to win at all costs. It’s raw and relentless, the kind of book that grips you tightly and refuses to let go, even as it tears into your heart.

There’s no denying the brilliance of Kuang’s storytelling. Her prose is razor-sharp, her world-building expansive yet intricate, her characters achingly human in their frailties and strengths. The sacrifices, the betrayals, and the sheer cruelty—both mental and physical—are overwhelming, to the point where I had to pause midway through. It’s not just the violence or the heartbreak; it’s the weight. Each chapter feels like a gut punch, a relentless reminder of the cost of war and power.

And yet, even with its intensity, you can't help but be drawn in. Kuang manages to weave together a sprawling narrative of countless names, places, and conflicts without losing the reader. Her masterful storytelling keeps everything clear, even as the stakes spiral higher and the horrors multiply.

This is darkgrim fantasy at its finest, and its roots in the Second Sino-Japanese War give it a depth and authenticity that’s hard to ignore. The themes of war, colonialism, and belief are handled with such unflinching honesty that even the most intense moments—rape, genocide, self-harm, animal cruelty—don’t feel gratuitous. They’re harrowing, yes, but they serve the narrative rather than shock for shock’s sake.

If there’s such a thing as historical, coming-of-age military fantasy, this is it. And while it’s the first in a trilogy, it’s the kind of book you must pace yourself with. Reading all three back-to-back feels almost impossible—not because they’re not brilliant, but because they’re so emotionally consuming. Yet, as soon as I turned the last page, I found myself missing the story, the world, and Kuang’s voice. This isn’t just fantasy—it’s a haunting reflection on the brutal realities of war, and it’s unforgettable.

The Teller of Small Fortunes

Title: The Teller of Small Fortunes
Author: Julie Leong
Published: November 5, 2024 by Ace
Format: Kindle, Paperback, 336 Pages
Genre: Fantasy

Blurb: Tao is an immigrant fortune teller, traveling between villages with just her trusty mule for company. She only tells "small" fortunes: whether it will hail next week; which boy the barmaid will kiss; when the cow will calve. She knows from bitter experience that big fortunes come with big consequences…

Even if it’s a lonely life, it’s better than the one she left behind. But a small fortune unexpectedly becomes something more when a (semi) reformed thief and an ex-mercenary recruit her into their desperate search for a lost child. Soon, they’re joined by a baker with a knead for adventure, and—of course—a slightly magical cat.

Tao sets down a new path with companions as big-hearted as her fortunes are small. But as she lowers her walls, the shadows of her past are closing in—and she’ll have to decide whether to risk everything to preserve the family she never thought she could have.

My Opinion: Reading this novel was like sipping a cup of lukewarm tea—pleasant for some, but not quite satisfying for me. I realized I’m just not the right fit for cozy fantasy books. A few have caught my attention, but most of the time, they leave me wanting more substance and excitement.

The story revolves around Tao, a fortune-teller determined to keep her secrets hidden while earning her keep by revealing just enough to get by. She’s part of a found family searching for a missing daughter, and during their search, they encounter curious people including a troll at a bridge and other fairytale touches. It had all the makings of an intriguing tale, but the pace was too slow, and the stakes never felt high enough to keep me fully engaged.

I think this book could be a great fit for someone new to fantasy or someone who prefers a gentle, low-stakes story. The narrative is a safe, comforting fairytale to help you unwind after a long day. For me, though, it was a reminder of what I look for in a story—a bit more tension, complexity, and depth. Cozy fantasy may not be my cup of tea, but I can see its appeal to others seeking a tranquil escape.

Murder at the Loch

Title: Murder at the Loch
Author: Dee MacDonald
Expected Publication: March 3, 2025
Format: Kindle, 285 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Ally McKinley Mystery #2

Blurb: Recent retiree Ally McKinley has stepped out with her puppy Flora for a walk by the loch in the tiny village of Locharran, taking a break from running the cosiest little guesthouse in the Highlands. But Ally’s peace and quiet is sunk when she and Flora find the body of a mysterious woman floating in the water…

Before she knows it, Ally finds herself wading into the middle of a new investigation. Who was the mystery woman and why was she killed? Her enquiries take her all over the from the corner shop and the nearby hotel to the turreted castle, home of local earl Hamish Sinclair where preparations are underway for his upcoming – and much gossiped about – wedding.

The body in the loch soon has the rumour mills buzzing. But then Elena, the earl’s new bride, is also found poisoned to death the morning after her marriage! With two deaths to investigate, the police appear to suspect almost everyone in Locharran, even Ally herself.

Determined to uncover the truth and clear her name, Ally finds poison at the home of one of her suspects and thinks she might be on the right path to solving both murders. But with a killer on the loose in the Scottish Highlands, can Ally unravel the clues before the next person in a watery grave is her?

My Opinion: Dee MacDonald's "Murder in the Loch" was an excruciating slog that should have been a DNF, but due to my liking of the first book in the series, Murder in the Scottish Highlands, I grudgingly pushed through. However, any hope for a rewarding read quickly evaporated.

The book crawls out of the gate with a laughably forced insta-love plotline that felt completely out of character and absurd. As if that wasn't bad enough, the middle drags on with the lifelessness of a coma. Without a single break in the tedium, the narrative was an aimless shuffle.

Revisiting every single character in the village repeatedly, paired with an unending monologue, made for an experience as monotonous as a washing machine stuck on the rinse cycle. The repetitive nature was soul-crushingly dull and had me desperate for an escape.

And then, the ending... or the final insult. The conclusion dropped in like a last-minute afterthought, providing no satisfaction. It only cemented the realization that this book was a colossal waste of time and should have been a DNF from the first chapter. All in all, "Murder in the Loch" was a severe disappointment, sorely lacking any redeeming qualities that its predecessor had.

I'll be Waiting

Title: I'll Be Waiting
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Published: October 1, 2024 by St. Martin's Press
Format: Kindle, 325 Pages
Genre: Horror
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Blurb: Nicola Laughton never expected to see adulthood, being diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis as a child. Then medical advances let her live into her thirties and she met Anton, who taught her to dream of a future… together. Months after they married, Anton died in a horrible car, but lived long enough to utter five words to her, “I’ll be waiting for you.”

That final private moment became public when someone from the crash scene took it to the press—the terminally ill woman holding her dying husband as he promised to wait for her on the other side. Worse, that person claimed it wasn’t Anton who said the words but his ghost, hovering over his body.

Since their story went public, Nicola has been hounded by spiritualists promising closure. In the hopes of stopping her downward spiral, friends and family find a reputable medium—a professor of parapsychology. For the séance, they rent the Lake Erie beach house that Anton’s family once owned.

The medium barely has time to begin his work before things start happening. Locked doors mysteriously open. Clouds of insects engulf the house. Nicola hears footsteps and voices and the creak of an old dumbwaiter…in an empty shaft. Throughout it all she’s haunted by nightmares of her past. Because, unbeknownst to the others, this isn’t her first time contacting the dead. And Nicola isn’t her real name.

That’s when she finds the first body.

My Opinion: Whether you call it supernatural suspense or horror, Kelley Armstrong's "I'll Be Waiting" makes an impact. A fast-paced narrative grips you from the start, pulling you into a realm where the ordinary and the extraordinary collide. Where tension is immediate and each plot twist keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Unlike the slow burn of classic horror tales, where the buildup is paced and the dread slowly seeps in, Armstrong's story plunges headfirst into the action. Armed with a sharp mind and chronically ill body, Nicola Laughton navigates through a tense atmosphere where the supernatural feels eerily close to reality and fantastical elements make everything shocking and urgent.

This rapid pace doesn't just entertain; it mirrors the urgency woven into the narrative. The characters are not merely reacting to events; they are actively shaping the narrative, reflecting a shift in the genre from classic horror victims to empowered protagonists.

As the story unfolds, the blend of horror and thriller elements ensures that you're not just reading—you're experiencing the twists and turns as if you were right there alongside the characters. Armstrong’s ability to interlace classic horror themes with modern storytelling techniques creates a dynamic that feels fresh yet familiar.

By the end, you're left marveling at how seamlessly Armstrong merges the classis elements with the new. It's a journey that highlights the evolution of horror, from the slow, creeping dread to the fast-paced, multifaceted narratives of today. For those who love classic and contemporary horror, this book offers a thrilling ride that doesn't disappoint.

The Little Lost Library

Title: The Little Lost Library
Author: Ellery Adams
Published: October 22, 2024 by Kensington Cozies
Format: Kindle, 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: Secret, Book, & Scone Society #7

Blurb: When an elderly Miracle Springs resident, Lucille Wynter, arranges for Nora to deliver an order of books to her creepy, crumbling Southern Gothic mansion on the outskirts of town, Nora doesn’t expect to be invited in. An agoraphobic, Lucille doesn’t leave Wynter House. Nor does she invite anyone inside. But when Lucille doesn’t come to the door to collect her books, Nora begins to worry. Forcing her way into Lucille’s dilapidated home, Nora is shocked to find rooms packed to the ceiling with decaying books and a lifeless Lucille at the foot of her stairs. After reading a note left behind by Lucille, Nora wonders if her death was an accident. Did Lucille fall or was she pushed by someone seeking a valuable item hidden within Wynter House? Lucille’s children are clearly confident the house contains something of value, because they hire Nora to sift through the piles of books. As she digs, Nora can’t shake the feeling that hoarding didn’t cause Lucille’s fall. Soon, Nora’s obsession with Lucille’s collection is cause for concern amongst her friends in the Secret, Book, and Scone Society—she’s even neglecting her bookshop! Then, Nora does find something valuable deep inside Wynter House—a revelation about Lucille’s terrible past . . . and a secret worth a small fortune. But there’s someone who’d do anything to keep the truth buried amid the moldering tomes. The odds against them are stacked as high as the books, but it’s up to Nora and her friends to track down a murderer with a literary lean before Wynter House’s lost library claims another victim.

My Opinion: The first thing that drew me in was the delightful sprinkling of book quotes and the seamless inclusion of beloved books and authors throughout the narrative. The friendships and the quaint, small-town atmosphere were heartwarming, and the house, scavenger hunt, and dollhouse all added layers of intrigue that kept me thoroughly engaged.

For the first two-thirds of the book, I was hooked. It was a quick, enjoyable read that kept me turning the pages. However, my enthusiasm hit a snag when an item was introduced. Suddenly, the pace faltered, and the culprit became glaringly obvious. What bothered me was that the person in question wouldn’t have had easy access to this item—it was an unnecessary addition that disrupted the story's flow. What started as a one-day read turned into a frustrating pause, leading me to set the book aside for a week before finally returning to it.

If cozy mysteries are your thing, "The Little Lost Library" might scratch that itch. However, if you're looking for a story that maintains its momentum and keeps the mystery intact until the end, this one might be a pass. Despite the disappointment, the book's charming elements and engaging start make it worth considering for fans of the genre.

The Tainted Cup

Title: The Tainted Cup
Author: Robert Jackson Bennett
Published: February 6, 2024 by Del Rey
Format: Hardcover, 410 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Shadow of the Leviathan #1

Blurb: In Daretana’s most opulent mansion, a high Imperial officer lies dead—killed, to all appearances, when a tree spontaneously erupted from his body. Even in this canton at the borders of the Empire, where contagions abound and the blood of the Leviathans works strange magical changes, it’s a death at once terrifying and impossible.

Called in to investigate this mystery is Ana Dolabra, an investigator whose reputation for brilliance is matched only by her eccentricities.

At her side is her new assistant, Dinios Kol. Din is an engraver, magically altered to possess a perfect memory. His job is to observe and report, and act as his superior’s eyes and ears--quite literally, in this case, as among Ana’s quirks are her insistence on wearing a blindfold at all times, and her refusal to step outside the walls of her home.

Din is most perplexed by Ana’s ravenous appetite for information and her mind’s frenzied leaps—not to mention her cheerful disregard for propriety and the apparent joy she takes in scandalizing her young counterpart. Yet as the case unfolds and Ana makes one startling deduction after the next, he finds it hard to deny that she is, indeed, the Empire’s greatest detective.

As the two close in on a mastermind and uncover a scheme that threatens the safety of the Empire itself, Din realizes he’s barely begun to assemble the puzzle that is Ana Dolabra—and wonders how long he’ll be able to keep his own secrets safe from her piercing intellect.

My Opinion: A dive into a world where magic and mystery connect. The journey begins with a learning curve; the characters, intricate settings, and detailed world-building require a bit of mental juggling. From military ranks and magical specialties to corruption and leviathans, it's a novel that demands—and rewards—close attention.

Ana Dolabra, an eccentric detective who wears a blindfold to avoid being overwhelmed by her surroundings, is a fascinating figure. Her reputation precedes her, and her investigative skills shine through despite her self-imposed sensory limitation. Her assistant, Dinios Kol, whose many iterations of his name and rank is the newest addition to her sleuthing team. Din, as he’s called, is magically altered—his ability to recall dialogue and situations through scents in vials he carries makes for a curious take on their investigation. However, Din has his own struggles which brings a relatable human touch to his character. Their dynamic can be infuriating and Din often finds himself playing catch-up, yet his humorous outbursts provide much-needed levity in their exchanges.

While comparisons to the classic Holmes and Watson duo are inevitable, there's a hint of Rear Window in the narrative. Ana’s reluctance to leave her cottage, with Din's doing the actual footwork, is reminiscent of Hitchcock's iconic film.

Bennett skillfully blends magical world-building with a captivating mystery. The storyline alternates between the two, making it hard to decide which aspect stands out more. The pacing keeps readers on their toes with many quotable lines and memorable moments. One line lingers, suggesting a potential hint at Din’s past.

This novel is a tale that captivates with its characters, plotting, and a blend of magic and mystery. The relationship between Ana and Din propels the story forward, ensuring readers are entertained, challenged, and left wanting for more.

Cold as Hell

Title: Cold as Hell
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Expected Publication: February 18, 2025, 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: Haven's Rock #3

Blurb: 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.

My Opinion: I adore both the Rockton and Haven’s Rock series, but Cold as Hell really tested my patience. While I completely understand Kelley Armstrong’s commitment to keeping her main characters at the forefront, there are limits to how much suspending disbelief one can muster. Picture this: a woman, eight months into a high-risk pregnancy, traipsing through the remote Yukon wilderness to pursue a killer. It's infuriating and, frankly, baffling that her partner Eric, would venture off in the opposite direction, leaving her vulnerable. This narrative choice felt downright frustrating.

You won’t believe how much this book made me talk back to its pages. Of course, I acknowledge that women are strong and capable, but let’s be realistic—this portrayal made Casey come off as both reckless and narcissistic.

On a more positive note, the core storyline is engaging, with your mental murder board in constant flux. Mathias and Sebastian remain my favorite characters and I enjoy every moment they make an appearance. Their unique code of ethics adds an interesting layer to the narrative, even if they aren't universally loved.

Despite my frustrations, I will continue with this series and other works by Kelley Armstrong. However, I will be scrutinizing Casey Duncan closely, especially considering how their child will need a village to raise them while mommy is off saving the world.

The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life

Title: The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life
Author: Mark Manson
Published: September 13, 2016 by Harper
Format: Paperback, 212 Pages
Genre: Self-Help

Blurb: For decades, we’ve been told that positive thinking is the key to a happy, rich life. "F**k positivity," Mark Manson says. "Let’s be honest, shit is f**ked and we have to live with it." In his wildly popular Internet blog, Manson doesn’t sugarcoat or equivocate. He tells it like it is—a dose of raw, refreshing, honest truth that is sorely lacking today. The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k is his antidote to the coddling, let’s-all-feel-good mindset that has infected American society and spoiled a generation, rewarding them with gold medals just for showing up.

Manson makes the argument, backed both by academic research and well-timed poop jokes, that improving our lives hinges not on our ability to turn lemons into lemonade, but on learning to stomach lemons better. Human beings are flawed and limited—"not everybody can be extraordinary, there are winners and losers in society, and some of it is not fair or your fault." Manson advises us to get to know our limitations and accept them. Once we embrace our fears, faults, and uncertainties, once we stop running and avoiding and start confronting painful truths, we can begin to find the courage, perseverance, honesty, responsibility, curiosity, and forgiveness we seek.

There are only so many things we can give a f**k about so we need to figure out which ones really matter, Manson makes clear. While money is nice, caring about what you do with your life is better, because true wealth is about experience. A much-needed grab-you-by-the-shoulders-and-look-you-in-the-eye moment of real-talk, filled with entertaining stories and profane, ruthless humor, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k is a refreshing slap for a generation to help them lead contented, grounded lives.

My Opinion: When I first picked up The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark Manson, I expected a lighthearted take on overthinking. But this book turned out to be so much more. Yes, there are plenty of funny moments, but it's also deep and thought-provoking. It took me much longer to read than I anticipated because I had to pause, reflect on what was said, and process how it related to my life. And, surprisingly, it related in ways I never expected.

This is the kind of book you should have in audio format, ready for those moments when you find yourself tangled in your thoughts and need a reminder of the bigger picture. Manson offers a different way of interpreting life and, to be frank, a different way of living. His insights encourage you to slow down, think deeply, and embrace a new perspective.

The book's impact is profound, making you reconsider your priorities and the things you truly care about. It's a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, wrapped in humor and raw honesty. If you're looking for a book that challenges your mindset and offers a fresh outlook on life, this book is a must-read.

The Honeymoon Crashers

Title: The Honeymoon Crashers
Author: Christina Lauren
Published: August 1, 2023 by Simon & Schuster Audio Originals
Format: Audio, 4 hours and 47 minutes
Genre: Romance
Series: Unhoneymooners #1.5

Blurb: Ami is determined to break the Torres family wedding curse. Her own disaster of a reception ended with all the guests getting food poisoning, and she left her cheating husband soon after. But even though she’s still processing her own divorce, Ami won’t let her twin sister Olive’s day be anything but perfect. Olive may think she wants a private ceremony in Maui, where she and her fiancé Ethan first fell in love, but Ami knows better and secretly flies the whole Torres family out to surprise the couple. Now she and her meticulously organized binder have less than two weeks to get everything together for the big day, thousands of miles from home.

Enter Brody, Ethan’s best man, who happens to be living in Maui and insists on helping with the preparations. His playfully elaborate schemes and happy-go-lucky attitude are the last thing Ami needs. When sparks start to fly, could it derail all her carefully laid plans?

My Opinion:When I picked up The Honeymoon Crashers audiobook by Christina Lauren, I didn’t realize it was part of the Unhoneymooners series, which I have not read. Slightly disappointed, I decided to listen anyway. The writing team of Christina Lauren didn’t skip a beat, effortlessly catching the listener up and diving right into the hilarity of beating the Torres curse and planning a secret wedding.

Enter Brody, the surfer and best man, who magically appears just in time to help Ami plan the perfect wedding day for her sister Olive. Brody's got the island connections and if he doesn’t know someone, his charm convinces them to help. Ami, a meticulous party planner, eventually gives in to Brody’s goofy charisma. Plus, he’s a godsend when it comes to sticking to a strict budget.

It’s a Torres family wedding, so naturally, Murphy’s Law is in full effect. Yet, Ami and Brody manage to pull off perfection, only for Ami to be hit with one last surprise she didn’t see coming.

This short audio was perfect for a road trip, bringing laughter and sweet smiles with every antic they faced. Will I go back and start the series from the beginning? Probably. I’m adding it to my TBR list, and I can't wait to see what other shenanigans await in the Unhoneymooners series.

Murder in the Scottish Highlands

Title: Murder in the Scottish Highlands
Author: Dee MacDonald
Published: September 2, 2024 by Bookouture
Format: Kindle, 248 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Ally McKinley #1

Blurb: For recently retired Ally McKinley, the tiny village of Locharran is the perfect place to open the guesthouse of her dreams in a lovingly restored old Scottish malthouse. Before long she is making friends with the locals, including Hamish Sinclair, the earl who owns the nearby castle. But things take an unexpected turn when her first paying guest, American tourist Wilbur Carrington, is found sprawled across her cobblestoned courtyard with a dagger in his back…

With the police baffled, Ally’s instincts get the better of her, and she can’t resist launching her own investigation. In no time at all she and her Labrador puppy Flora are on the case, making enquiries over tea and excellent shortbread. She finds that Wilbur, a keen amateur genealogist, was convinced that he was the rightful Earl of Locharran… Even worse, he had plans that would put many people out of their jobs and even their homes.

But which of the locals resorted to murder? The hotel owner furiously trying to save his business? Locharran Castle’s fiercely loyal housekeeper who’d do anything for the earl? Or the earl himself, whose entire way of life was threatened by what Wilbur knew?

Looking for clues, Ally finds a faded photograph in a hidden drawer in Wilbur’s room. Could this be the key to solving the mystery? But when one of her suspects dies in a suspicious accident, Ally realises that things are getting a wee bit too close for comfort… Can she uncover the truth or will a killer get off scot-free?

My Opinion: When Dee MacDonald announced the end of her beloved Kate Palmer series, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment. Kate, with her middle-aged charm, had become a favorite. But then came Ally McKinley, and I was all in again. Ally is just as captivating, bringing a unique flair to the world of amateur sleuthing.

In Murder in the Scottish Highlands, Ally is ready to shake things up. Freshly retired, she opens a bed and breakfast in an old malthouse Locharran, Scottland, despite her kids' protests. The quirky setting brings many colorful characters and, naturally, a budding romance. But things take a dark turn when Ally finds a guest dead in her garden. In a tight-knit village, she can't help but worry about the gossip.

The murder mystery is a curious puzzle with twists and turns that aren't immediately obvious. This gives readers the chance to dive deep into the lives of the villagers and uncover their secrets, making the journey to solving the crime even more fun. Dee MacDonald's talent for engaging stories shines through, keeping me engaged until the last pages.

Dee's return with Ally McKinley worked for me. Ally is as endearing as Kate Palmer, offering a new character in the amateur detective genre. This book is a fantastic showcase of Dee MacDonald's storytelling skills, leaving me looking forward to more adventures with Ally.

The Thirteenth Husband

Title: The Thirteenth Husband
Author: Greer Macallister
Published: August 6, 2024 by Sourcebooks Landmark
Format: Kindle, Paperback, 336 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Blurb: Tearing through millions of dollars, four continents, and a hearty collection of husbands, real-life heiress Aimee Crocker blazed an unbelievable trail of public notoriety, private pain, and the kind of strong independent woman the 1880s had never seen. Her life was stranger than fiction and brighter than the stars, and she whirled through her days as if she was being chased by something larger than herself. Greer Macallister brilliantly takes us into her world and spins a tale that you won't soon forget.

My Opinion: This novel has polarized its readers, and it's easy to see why. The protagonist, Aimee Crocker, isn’t exactly a paragon of likability. Macallister’s adaptation of Crocker's memoir often leaves readers perplexed when deciphering how much of this larger-than-life character has been embellished.

The enigmatic women in white who appear throughout Aimee's story add a layer of mystery and curiosity. The explanation at the end, while bordering on the fantastical, oddly fits the overall narrative.

What starts with captivating pacing devolves into a sluggish meander. I found myself skimming through redundant sections. Aimee’s multiple marriages—some of which were not actual marriages—are woven through the narrative, creating another facet of this self-absorbed woman.

While I did enjoy some of the elements of the book, it ultimately did not measure up to Macallister's previous work, The Arctic Fury. The promise of a gripping and complex story remains largely unfulfilled, leaving readers with a sense of what could have been.

Murder at the Lemonberry Tea

Title: Murder at the Lemonberry Tea
Author: Darci Hannah
Published: November 26, 2024, by Kensington Cozies
Format: Kindle, Paperback, 368 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Beacon Bakeshop #6

Blurb: Lindsey’s patrons have a new outdoor patio where they can eat their treats in the glorious summer weather. But even more exciting is that the Beacon Bakeshop is going to host British celebrity chef Vivi Lemonberry—and what could be a more appropriate event than a tea party? What Lindsey didn’t realize is that Vivi is here to put some distance between herself and her recent professional and personal scandals. Despite assurances that Vivi is as sweet as a chocolate-dipped strawberry, Lindsey is cooling rapidly toward the culinary icon . . . especially after she banishes Lindsey’s beloved dog, Wellington, from the bakeshop and then flirts outrageously with Lindsey’s boyfriend. She’s not the only one feeling hostile, though. While Vivi’s in the middle of making a tart in front of the cameras, a woman runs up and slaps her. Soon, Vivi’s nowhere to be found, and folks are speculating on whether she’s run off with her secret lover or just laying low due to embarrassment. That is, until Lindsey finds a body bobbing near the surface of Lake Michigan. It’s a sour ending for the diva, but Lindsey is determined to squeeze the truth out of every clue until she finds the killer.

My Opinion: In “Murder at the Lemonberry Tea,” Darci Hannah delivers another installment in the series that typically enchants readers with its charm and wit. However, this latest entry fell short for me. I found myself navigating a maze of names. For longtime fans who’ve been on this journey from the start, these names will ring familiar, but new readers will likely find the deluge of characters daunting and challenging to follow.

There is a significant amount of redundancy. Names, places, and situations are repeated so often I started skimming. In some sections, it felt as if the story looped rather than progressed. Moreover, the use of superlatives seemed excessive and lost their impact.

One redeeming feature is the mention of confections, which come with recipes at the end. While this is a sweet touch that adds a unique flavor to the book, it wasn’t enough to offset the frustration felt with the story’s structure and pacing.

Ultimately, I am undecided about whether to continue with this series. The next book, yet to be announced, will be the tipping point in my decision-making. Here’s hoping it rekindles the charm that initially drew me in.

The Queens of Crime

Title: The Queens of Crime
Author: Marie Benedict
Expected Publication: February 11, 2025
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.

Blurb: London, 1930. The five greatest women crime writers have banded together to form a secret society with a single goal: to show they are no longer willing to be treated as second-class citizens by their male counterparts in the legendary Detection Club. Led by the formidable Dorothy L. Sayers, the group includes Agatha Christie, Ngaio Marsh, Margery Allingham and Baroness Emma Orczy. They call themselves the Queens of Crime. Their plan? Solve an actual murder, that of a young woman found strangled in a park in France who may have connections leading to the highest levels of the British establishment.

May Daniels, a young English nurse on an excursion to France with her friend, seemed to vanish into thin air as they prepared to board a ferry home. Months later, her body is found in the nearby woods. The murder has all the hallmarks of a locked room mystery for which these authors are famous: how did her killer manage to sneak her body out of a crowded train station without anyone noticing? If, as the police believe, the cause of death is manual strangulation, why is there is an extraordinary amount of blood at the crime scene? What is the meaning of a heartbreaking secret letter seeming to implicate an unnamed paramour? Determined to solve the highly publicized murder, the Queens of Crime embark on their own investigation, discovering they’re stronger together. But soon the killer targets Dorothy Sayers herself, threatening to expose a dark secret in her past that she would do anything to keep hidden.

My Opinion: In the world of Queens of Crime, the real magic is not in the details of murder, but in the camaraderie and intellect of the women who investigate it. Imagine five of the greatest female mystery writers of all time—Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, Baroness Emma Orczy, Ngaio Marsh, and Margery Allingham—coming together to form a detection club.

Benedict assembles these literary titans, each renowned for their unparalleled knack in weaving intricate tales of suspense and intrigue. Faced with the condescension of their male counterparts and the dismissive gaze of the publishing world, these queens decide to demonstrate that their prowess is not confined to the realm of fiction.

They employ strategies to resolve a real-life case that law enforcement has dismissed as trivial. But make no mistake, the true heart of this story is in the shared insights and methodologies these authors borrowed directly from their own novels. Watching them piece together clues—discarding red herrings—is a delight, far surpassing the importance of the actual crime at hand.

For me, the narrative thrives in the collaboration, where these minds meld and clash in the creation of their deductions. Each woman brings her unique genius, and as they unravel the mystery, they also elevate their craft.

In essence, Queens of Crime isn't just a murder mystery; it’s a celebration of the art of deduction, the strength of female intellect, and the enduring power of storytelling.

An Excellent Thing in a Woman

Title: An Excellent Thing in a Woman
Author: Allison Montclair
Expected Publication Date: February 4, 2025, by Severn House
Format: Kindle, 224 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Sparks & Bainbridge Mystery #7

Blurb: London, 1947. Spirited Miss Iris Sparks and ever-practical Mrs Gwendolyn Bainbridge are called to action when Gwen's beau Salvatore 'Sally' Danielli is accused of murder!

Sally has taken a job at the BBC studios at Alexandra Palace, but when the beautiful Miss JeanneMarie Duplessis - one of the Parisian performers over for a new variety show - is found dead in the old theatre, a number of inconvenient coincidences make him Suspect

Just days earlier, Miss Duplessis had arrived at The Right Sort, desperately looking for a husband - any husband - to avoid having to return to Paris. As the plot thickens, Iris is pulled back into the clandestine circles she moved in during the war and it soon becomes apparent that to clear Sally's name, she and Gwen would need to go on the hunt for a killer once more.

My Opinion: This was a DNF for me. I threw in the towel at the 33% mark. The novel kicks off with a brief recap that feels a bit like “If you didn't read Murder at the White Palace, good luck catching up,” followed by a quick dive into the current happenings with Gwen and Sparks. Sadly, the narrative is derailed by numerous tangents that detract from the central characters and, quite frankly, bore the reader.

These distractions continue until, finally, a body makes an appearance. By then, it's too little, too late. This is where I decided to put the book down.

What started as a promising series has now found its way to my “that was fun while it lasted, but I won’t be reading any more from this author” shelf. The initial spark that made the series engaging seems to have fizzled out, replaced by unfocused storytelling and an overload of irrelevant details. If the aim was to keep readers hooked, it missed the mark by a long shot.

The Man in Black: Stories

Title: The Man in Black: Stories
Author: Elly Griffiths
Published: October 15, 2024 by Mariner Books
Format: Kindle, 320 Pages
Genre: Fiction / Short Stories
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Blurb: Elly Griffiths has always written short stories to experiment with different voices and genres as well as to explore what some of her fictional creations such as Ruth Galloway, Harbinder Kaur, and Max Mephisto might have done outside of the novels. The Man in Black gathers these bite-sized tales all together in one splendid volume.

There are ghost stories, cozy mysteries, tales of psychological suspense, and poignant vignettes of love and loss.

In the title story, Ruth Galloway crosses paths with a mysterious man in a bookstore, setting in motion a rescue mission that hinges on the legends and lore of Norfolk.

Looking into the past, a young magician in 1920s Leeds wonders just what happened to his missing landlady in Max Mephisto and the Disappearing Act.

In Justice Jones and the Etherphone, a witty girl detective investigates the dire prediction of a fortune teller in dreary postwar London.

A flashback in time reveals Harbinder Kaur as a Detective Sergeant surviving her first day on the job at Shoreham DCI.

To celebrate the holidays, Ruth gets her very first Christmas tree, and her beloved cat narrates his own seasonal story in Flint’s Fireside Tale.

And readers can armchair travel with stories set on the Amalfi Coast, in Capri, and in Egypt as Ruth and DCI Nelson experience their very own version of Death on the Nile.

The Man in Black illustrates the breadth and variety of Elly Griffiths’s talent for blood-chilling, page-turning stories all with her trademark humor and heart.

My Opinion: A collection of short stories that bring together beloved characters like Ruth Galloway, Harbinder Kaur, and even Max Mephisto. Though I'm typically not a fan of short stories, Elly Griffiths' name guarantees I'll be following along to see what my favorite characters are up to.

The anthology features other short stories that showcase Griffiths' talent for creating captivating atmospheres and developed characters with just enough storytelling to let the reader's imagination roam. These glimpses make one wonder if we'll encounter these new characters or situations in her upcoming novels.

Anthologies, in general, aren't meant to be read in one go. Instead, I treat them as refreshing pauses between lengthier books or keep them on my desk for a quick escape when I need a brief break.

Overall, The Man in Black provides an engaging blend of familiar faces and new stories, making it a perfect addition to any Elly Griffiths fan's collection.

More or Less Maddy

Title: More or Less Maddy
Author: Lisa Genova
Published: January 14, 2025, by Gallery/Scout Press
Format: Kindle, 368 Pages
Genre: Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

Blurb: Maddy Banks is just like any other stressed-out freshman at NYU. Between schoolwork, exams, navigating life in the city, and a recent breakup, it’s normal to be feeling overwhelmed. It doesn’t help that she’s always felt like the odd one out in her picture-perfect Connecticut family. But Maddy’s latest low is devastatingly low, and she goes on an antidepressant. She begins to feel good, dazzling in fact, and she soon spirals high into a wild and terrifying mania that culminates in a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.

As she struggles to find her way in this new reality, navigating the complex effects bipolar has on her identity, her relationships, and her life dreams, Maddy will have to figure out how to manage being both too much and not enough.

My Opinion: The book starts with a manic tone that Lisa Genova aimed to create. She wants us inside Maddy’s head. Maddy is out of control. Chapter 2 takes the reader 18 months prior so we can see what got us to where we first met Maddy in a Las Vegas hotel room. Then progress through the highs and lows with Maddy and her family. There are tidbits of what brought on the diagnosis, but as the author relates, there could be many reasons.

Genova, with her professional background, takes the reader on both a fictionalized, as well as a medical journey. What is most disheartening is that medical professionals still don’t know how to treat this disorder and they still don’t know how most of the drugs that are prescribed work since research has shown that antidepressants are no more effective than placebos in treating depression. As long as the placebo has an active component, something that will give you a headache or an upset stomach, it will trick your body into thinking it must be good for you. Yet, they continue to throw medications at those fighting for their mental health, but it appears to only be “just throwing spaghetti at the wall and calling what sticks medicine.” Medical Science is a fascinating thing.

In the author’s notes, she displays how this book can educate, humanize, demystify, destigmatize, and engender empathy. And I wholeheartedly agree since this book shines a light on a disorder with onset typically occurring in the later teen and early twenties, that affects 6 million people, slightly more than those that are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and is the sixth leading cause of disability worldwide and is the tenth leading cause of death in the US, all while hiding in plain sight.

On its own, Maddy's story is fascinating but the research and education that Lisa Genova has shared is invaluable.

The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley

Title: The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley
Author: Courtney Walsh
Published: June 13, 2023 by Thomas Nelson
Format: Paperback, 358 Pages
Genre: Romance

First Sentence: Isadora Bentley is shopping for her final meal. If I were a character in a novel, this is what the author would write.

Blurb: Isadora Bentley follows the rules. Isadora Bentley likes things just so. Isadora Bentley believes that happiness is something that flat-out doesn’t exist in her life—and never will.

As a university researcher, Isadora keeps to herself as much as possible. She avoids the students she’s supposed to befriend and mentor. She stays away from her neighbors and lives her own quiet, organized life in her own quiet, organized apartment. And she will never get involved in a romantic relationship again—especially with another academic. It will be just Isadora and her research. Forever.

But on her thirtieth birthday, Isadora does something completely out of character. The young woman who never does anything “on a whim” makes an impulse purchase of a magazine featuring a silly article detailing “Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy”—which includes everything from smiling at strangers to exercising for endorphins to giving in to your chocolate cravings. Isadora decides to create her own secret research project—proving the writer of the ridiculous piece wrong.

As Isadora gets deeper into her research—and meets a handsome professor along the way—she’s stunned to discover that maybe, just maybe, she’s proving herself wrong. Perhaps there’s actually something to this happiness concept, and possibly there’s something to be said for loosening up and letting life take you somewhere . . . happy.

My Opinion: The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley by Courtney Walsh is a charming exploration of finding happiness against all odds. Thirty-year-old Isadora Bentley, socially awkward and reeling from a disastrous relationship, drifts through a featureless life. On a whim, she picks up a magazine featuring an article titled "Thirty-One Ways to Be Happy." As a researcher, she can't resist testing these ways, determined to prove the author wrong about the very existence of happiness.

Isadora's solitary existence is about to change dramatically. Yet, stepping out of her comfort zone leads to transformative experiences. The highlight of her journey is meeting with a handsome work colleague and allowing herself to open up to people along the way. Maybe this article might be onto something. But just as she begins to feel hopeful, her world unravels.

Despite the setbacks, Isadora finds herself surrounded by unexpected allies. A ten-year-old girl grappling with her own heartache offers wisdom beyond her years, while others rally to support Isadora in her fight for happiness.

This romantic tale is filled with poignant moments and humorous insights, illustrating that even in the face of adversity, love and friendship can lead to a truly happy life.

Holmes is Missing

Title: Holmes is Missing
Author: James Patterson, Brian Sitts
Published: January 6, 2025 by Little, Brown and Company
Format: Kindle, 352 Pages
Genre: Thriller
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Holmes, Margaret & Poe #2

Blurb: It’s their toughest case yet. And their best detective is missing. Holmes, Margaret and Poe run the private detective agency that solves the crimes no one else can. Or they did – until Holmes said he wanted to leave the business and fell off the radar. In New York City, they are called to investigate the abduction of six newborns from a private hospital. Without Holmes, they try to investigate this terrible crime. They hear word of more missing babies in London, and Margaret follows the trail across the pond. But they need Holmes. To solve the crime of the century, first they must save their friend.(GoodReads)

My Opinion: Holmes is Missing by James Patterson and Brian Sitts is a whirlwind of a novel that keeps readers on their toes. The authors are not shy about dropping names and taking the story in unexpected directions, making for a reading experience that's all over the place, but in a compelling way.

Patterson and his co-authors can be hit or miss for me. Some series captivate me, despite occasionally showing signs of the authors' boredom, while others are one-and-done. I enjoyed the first book in this series and was curious if the sequel would maintain that energy. To my delight, it did not disappoint. Although there were moments where the pace lagged, the authors consistently introduced new elements that pulled me back into the complex web of storylines.

The novel is packed with a variety of intense themes: child abductions, addiction, xenophobia, abandonment, a serial killer, psychological taunting, new romance, and family dynamics. It's all here, creating a tapestry of intrigue and suspense. When you think you have a handle on where the story is going, Patterson and Sitts throw another curveball, and the last words of the book reveal that this writing duo is far from finished. The cat-and-mouse game they've set up promises more excitement in the future.

Overall, Holmes is Missing is an unpredictable and gripping sequel that left me eager for more. The varied plotlines and rich themes make it a compelling read, and I'm excited to see where the story goes next.

Schemes & Scandals

Title: Schemes & Scandals
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Published: December 3, 2024 by Subterranean Press
Format: Kindle, 176 Pages
Genre: Time Travel
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: A Rip Through Time #3.5

First Sentence: On the first of December, I walk into the town house library and announce, “I believe it’s time to discuss Christmas.”

Blurb: It’s Mallory Atkinson’s first Christmas in Scotland. Victorian Scotland, that is. Also, as the twenty-first-century detective learns, Christmas really isn’t a thing in Victorian Scotland. It’s all about Hogmanay. But her boss, Dr. Duncan Gray, treats her to an early gift of tickets to the event of the season: a Charles Dickens reading. There, they bump into Lady Inglis—the lovely widow who has sent Gray sexy letters trying to entice him back to her bed.

Lady Inglis introduces Mallory to Dickens—the meeting of a lifetime—but in return she wants their help. She’s being blackmailed. Someone stole letters she wrote to another lover and is threatening to publish them.

Mallory isn’t sure what to make of Lady Inglis, but no woman deserves that, so she insists on taking the case with or without Gray’s help. Growing tension between them soon tells Mallory that Gray is hiding a secret of his own. She has until Hogmanay to uncover the blackmailer…and, hopefully, to put things right with Gray so they can enjoy the holiday together.

My Opinion: For a novella, Schemes & Scandals by Kelley Armstrong is unexpectedly wordy and, at times, feels like it's dragging. A tighter edit could have transformed this novella into a more compelling short story.

Mallory Atkinson finds herself spending her first Christmas in Scotland, grappling with the unfamiliar customs of the time. But adapting is key when you're inhabiting another person’s body and centuries out of your comfort zone. The only bright spot in her holiday is an unexpected encounter with Charles Dickens, who reads his works and adds a touch of literary magic to her experience.

When a friend of Dr. Gray’s arrives with a salacious problem, Mallory seizes the opportunity to put her 21st-century investigative skills to the test. This novella, part of Armstrong's time travel series, requires readers to embrace the convenient plot devices and the notion that people living in the Victorian era would so easily accept a woman claiming to be a time traveler and rarely question the uses of unfamiliar words and science. The humor woven through the narrative helps make these leaps of faith more palatable.

While the story could benefit from a more concise approach, Schemes & Scandals offers intriguing elements that keep the reader engaged, especially with the unique blend of time travel and historical fiction.