A Write to Review: May 2023

Friday, May 26, 2023

Review: Sun Damage by Sabine Durrant - ARC

Sun Damage by Sabine Durrant
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Harper Perennial and Paperbacks via NetGalley.

Set against a backdrop of scorching heat, a group of nine individuals gathers at a secluded villa in the southern region of France. Although they are familiar with one another, the perception of knowing each other well is about to be shattered. Within this intense environment, at least one person harbors numerous hidden truths, with nowhere to escape. As the unforgiving sun beats down upon them, loyalties will be challenged, long-held secrets will be unveiled, and tensions will escalate to a breaking point, pushing them beyond the brink of return.

Based on the initial description of this book, I had high expectations and anticipated a more enjoyable read. However, I found the overall story to read relatively slowly. Additionally, Rob's peculiar reaction to "Lulu" was odd.

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Review: The Bachelorette Party by Carissa Ann Lynch - ARC

The Bachelorette Party by Carissa Ann Lynch
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from One More Chapter (HarperCollins) via Edelweiss+.

In the vibrant city of New Orleans, six women gather for a bachelorette party, seeking an unforgettable experience filled with live music, drinks, and colorful attractions. Among them are the bride-to-be, her best friend, cousin, mother-in-law, sister, and the groom's friend. However, as friendly competitions take a dark turn and a seemingly innocent game of truth or dare escalates, the party becomes a dangerous affair. By the end of the weekend, tragedy strikes, and one of the women will lose her life in a shocking turn of events.

I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in the captivating mystery of discovering the identity of the person who met their demise at the end. As I delved into the weekend stories shared among the group of girls, it became evident that each character possessed a motive against each other, adding an intriguing layer of suspense to the narrative. The puzzle of unraveling the truth kept me engaged and invested until the final revelation.

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Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Review: Nine Lives by Peter Swanson

Nine Lives by Peter Swanson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this heart-pounding thriller, nine strangers receive a cryptic list with their names on it. Initially dismissing it as junk mail, they soon discover that someone wants them dead. As the strangers begin to die in unusual circumstances, including drownings and shootings, FBI agent Jessica Winslow, also on the list, takes it upon herself to uncover the connection between them. With professions ranging from oncology nurse to aspiring actor, and spread across different locations, the group must unravel the dark secret that binds them or face the wrath of a murderous madman. As the tension rises, each stranger lives in fear, unsure who will be the next to be crossed off the list.

As a huge fan of "And Then There Were None," I eagerly anticipated reading this book, and I must say it lived up to my expectations. The overall ending was satisfying, but I felt that the final part was unnecessary both for the story and the readers.

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Review: The Paris Apartment

The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jess, in desperate need of a fresh start, finds herself broke and alone after leaving her job in unfavorable circumstances. Seeking refuge with her half-brother Ben in Paris, she discovers a surprisingly upscale apartment, leading her to question how Ben could afford such a place. However, Ben is nowhere to be found.

As time passes with no sign of Ben, Jess becomes increasingly curious about her brother's situation. The eccentric and unfriendly neighbors raise more questions than answers. While Jess had hoped to escape her own past, it becomes apparent that it is Ben's future that is now in jeopardy.

Amidst the cast of characters including a socialite, a kind-hearted individual, an alcoholic, a troubled girl, and the enigmatic concierge, everyone becomes a potential suspect and neighbor. Secrets and withheld information lurk behind closed doors, and Jess realizes that each person holds a piece of the puzzle.

In this gripping tale, suspicions mount, and the search for Ben intensifies. As everyone harbors their own hidden agenda, Jess must navigate the intricate web of deception to uncover the truth.

Jess truly shines as a dynamic character whose resilience captivates readers. Despite encountering numerous obstacles, she demonstrates remarkable strength and determination that leaves a lasting impression. Jess's ability to overcome challenges and adapt to unexpected situations adds depth to her character and makes her journey all the more compelling. I was engrossed in unraveling the mystery alongside Jess. The twists and turns bring an element of surprise and intrigue, keeping readers engaged and eager to discover what lies ahead. The unexpected plot twists keep readers on their toes, constantly challenging their assumptions and providing a sense of satisfaction when revelations come to light.

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Review: The Girls Weekend

The Girls Weekend by Jody Gehrman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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Review: The Cellar by Natasha Preston

The Cellar by Natasha Preston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After the disappearance of sixteen-year-old Summer Robinson in the peaceful town of Long Thorpe, both her loved ones and the community are left shattered. The police launch a thorough search and investigation, but their efforts yield no leads or clues, causing hope for Summer's safe return to diminish.

Meanwhile, Colin Brown, a thirty-year-old solicitor with a troubled and abusive past, leads a solitary existence following his mother's passing. Adopting the name Clover, Colin grapples with a profound yearning for an ideal family and a moral compass. In his relentless pursuit of this elusive dream, Clover resorts to drastic measures.

This story encapsulates the journey of a young girl facing the perils of a cruel world. Although Summer's initial actions may have been unwise, her subsequent months were a testament to her unwavering strength and resilience.

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