Review: What It Seems

What It Seems by Emily Bleeker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

2.5 Stars

Tara's life has been one of isolation and strict control under the foster mother who adopted her as an eight-year-old. This harsh existence leaves her lonely and craving connection with the outside world. Her one solace is the Feely family, an affectionate and famous vlogging clan who provide an online escape for Tara.

When the opportunity to intern with this close-knit family arises, Tara seizes the chance to break free from her sheltered life. Defying her foster mother's strict rules, she runs away and is embraced into the Feely family. But as she becomes closer to them, the image of the perfect family she's admired from afar begins to unravel. Tara discovers that secrets lurk beneath their cheerful facade, and it becomes evident that she may have traded one trap for another.

To regain control of her life and escape the clutches of her foster mother, Tara needs a new plan. As the Feely family's online popularity skyrockets, reaching more viewers, Tara can't shake the unsettling feeling that her foster mother may be lurking among the fans. She's watching. She's waiting. And she'll never release her grip on Tara.

I had such high hopes for this book, but regrettably, I found something missing that prevented me from truly connecting with the story and its characters. While it was relatively entertaining, it didn't offer the suspense I was expecting, and the plot felt somewhat predictable. I'm usually a fan of Emily Bleeker's writing, and her characters often find themselves in intriguing situations. In this case, the main character's story is undeniably tragic and portrayed with the appropriate tone. However, it became rather evident from the start what was truly happening.

As the story deviates from its course, another intriguing piece of information is presented: the Feelys, the YouTube sensation family, aren't as they seem. What this ultimately means is that the author built up the family to be more significant than what was actually unfolding, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied with the story's direction.

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Review: The Mystery Writer

The Mystery Writer by Sulari Gentill
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley.

Theo Benton, leaving her legal career behind to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, embarks on a journey filled with unexpected challenges. She faces questions about her family's support, her own abilities, and the potential backlash from her parents. Little does she know, her life is about to take a startling twist when she becomes entangled in a secretive literary realm where identities are fluid, shaped to captivate an audience.

Tragedy strikes as her mentor, a renowned author, is brutally murdered, leaving Theo determined to find the killer and ensure justice is served. The situation takes a darker turn when her brother, Gus, is wrongly accused, prompting Theo to take extreme measures to protect him.

Intriguingly, the deceased author has left a trail, a story that becomes a lifeline out of the intricate maze. Gus, following this narrative thread, inadvertently threatens the very foundations of this enigmatic labyrinth. To safeguard the intricately woven tale, Theo and those searching for her must confront deadly consequences, making survival an uncertain proposition.

At first, I was genuinely excited by the intriguing premise of this book. It had all the makings of a captivating story with a well-defined plot and character development that promised to be engrossing. The narrative immediately drew me in, and the relationship between Theo and her older brother Gus was a highlight, portraying a touching and relatable connection.

But as I ventured further into the story, my initial enthusiasm dwindled. The last three-quarters of the book took a perplexing turn, descending into chaotic and nonsensical territory. What began as a promising mystery involving a writer's death and the suspicion falling on another writer eventually morphed into a bizarre, almost farcical narrative. It introduced a dizzying array of elements like conspiracy theorists, preppers, and malevolent corporations, which, rather than enhancing the story, left it convoluted and hard to follow.

The characters, although well-crafted, couldn't salvage the plot's descent into this bizarre realm. Sadly, Theo, the central character, didn't live up to the expectations of a strong female lead. In the end, the potential for a normal, engaging mystery lost out to the peculiar and unconvincing turn of events, ultimately leaving me somewhat unsatisfied with the book.

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Review: Sisters of Fortune

Sisters of Fortune by Anna Lee Huber
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley.

In April 1912, the Fortune sisters are concluding their Grand Tour of Europe with a voyage back home on the magnificent Titanic. This voyage is a time for reflection on the past treasures they've seen during their travels and contemplation of their future paths.

For Alice, excitement mingles with foreboding as a dire warning from an Egyptian fortune teller about traveling at sea haunts her. Her fiancé's plans for her return clash with the freedom she's come to cherish on her travels. Flora, the most dutiful daughter, is heading home to marry her parents' choice, a well-to-do banker. However, as the wedding day approaches, Flora's certainty wavers, and she finds herself drawn to another man who challenges her to follow her own desires. Mabel, the youngest sister, was sent on the Grand Tour to keep her away from a jazz musician, but her true passions lie in suffrage and reform, even if it means defying her family.

As the Titanic sails across the Atlantic, each sister grapples with the choices before her. Then, on a fateful night, destiny intervenes, forever altering the course of their lives.

As someone with a lifelong fascination for Titanic stories, I was genuinely drawn to the historical authenticity in this book, especially its focus on real people and their experiences during that tragic voyage. It added a layer of depth and realism that I appreciated.

However, I do have to admit that the beginning of the book presented some challenges. The introduction of numerous characters created a bit of confusion for me, and at times, it was tough to keep track of all the different narratives. This complexity somewhat hindered my initial engagement with the story. Additionally, there were moments where I felt the story dragged on, which affected the overall pacing. Despite these issues, the historical accuracy and the portrayal of real-life individuals added a unique dimension to the narrative.

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Review: The Paris Notebook

The Paris Notebook by Tessa Harris
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from HQ Digital (HarperCollins) via Edelweiss+.

Katja Heinz secures a job as a typist at Doctor Viktor's clinic, a seemingly ordinary position. However, she soon discovers that she's tasked with copying top-secret medical records from a hidden notebook. These records date back to the end of World War I when Doctor Viktor treated soldiers for psychological disorders. Shockingly, one of his patients was none other than Adolf Hitler.

The notes within the notebook declare Hitler unfit for office, a revelation that could shatter the Führer's reputation and potentially alter the course of the war if exposed. Katja and Doctor Viktor embark on a dangerous journey to Paris, with the notebook hidden in her hatbox. Their goal is to find a publisher courageous enough to print this explosive information.

Yet, the shadow of danger looms. Nazi spies in Paris have caught wind of Katja's plan, and they will stop at nothing to destroy the notebook and silence anyone who possesses knowledge of the explosive secret it contains.

I found Katja's narrative in this story to be incredibly engaging and well-crafted. Her character was portrayed as intelligent and strong, which made her journey all the more captivating. The first 80% of the book held my attention brilliantly, with the intrigue and tension keeping me eagerly turning the pages. However, I must admit that my enthusiasm waned a bit in the latter part of the story. Nonetheless, Katja's character and her part of the narrative remained a highlight, making this an overall intriguing read.

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Review: The Guest

The Guest by B.A. Paris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.

A betrayal was a betrayal, whether it lasted a few hours, a few months or a few years

Iris and Gabriel appear to live a charmed life, nestled in the idyllic British countryside with a daughter contentedly working in Greece and their dear friends, Laure and Pierre from Paris, often joining them for vacations. However, their tranquility shatters when Gabriel stumbles upon a tragic accident in a nearby quarry, becoming the unwitting witness to the young man's final words, leaving him burdened by guilt.

As Gabriel grapples with the trauma, their world takes an unexpected turn as Laure, dealing with her husband's revelation of fathering a child with another woman, moves in with Iris and Gabriel. They offer her solace, but Laure's presence becomes increasingly unsettling. She starts imitating Iris, donning her clothes, shadowing her every move, and obsessively questioning her about the recent death of the young man.

Amidst this fraught atmosphere, the arrival of a new couple expecting their first child seems to offer a breath of fresh air. However, their gardener brings with him a shadowy past.

With their relationships fractured and secrets piling up, the question becomes whether Iris and Gabriel's marriage can withstand the weight of the unsettling circumstances surrounding them.

As an avid fan of B. A. Paris, I came into this book with certain expectations, knowing the author's signature style. While this story may have felt a tad slower in pace compared to some of her other works, it more than made up for it with its rich character development and depth of storytelling.

In this particular book, you embark on a six-month journey alongside Iris and Gabriel, and you genuinely feel the weight of their trials and tribulations during this period. It's as though you're right there with them, navigating the complexities of their lives. There's an abundance of intricacies woven into the narrative, keeping you thoroughly engaged throughout the tale. B. A. Paris has a way of delving into the human psyche, and this book is no exception.

If you're a fan of her previous works, you'll appreciate the psychological depth and character-driven narrative of this story, even if the pacing might be a bit different from what you're used to. It's a book that pulls you into the lives of its characters, making their journey, struggles, and secrets feel all the more real.

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Review: Dark Obsession by Amanda Stevens

Dark Obsession by Amanda Stevens
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Eric Ramsey, a horror novelist, is devastated when her sister is found murdered by a mysterious stranger. Determined to seek justice, she teams up with Detective Nick Slade, an alluring and mysterious man. As they delve deeper into the investigation, Eric is lured into a world of midnight fantasies and hidden secrets, blurring the line between reality and eroticism.

The story was decent, although the identities of the characters were easily discernible from the start. The interaction between the main characters was enjoyable, but the narrative suffered from some repetitive elements that became tiresome. Nonetheless, the overall concept of the story was intriguing.

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Review: The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams

The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything by Linda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In the enchanting tale, "The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything," we meet a courageous elderly woman who fearlessly faces the world around her. However, one fateful autumn night, as she strolls through the woods, she encounters an unexpected series of sounds: clomp, clomp, shake, shake, clap, clap. Suddenly, the little old lady finds herself experiencing a scare like never before.

This timeless Halloween story, adorned with delightful refrains and accompanied by classic illustrations, captures the essence of the season and is perfect for sharing aloud. It holds a special place in the hearts of many, including myself, as it was one of my cherished childhood favorites. I eagerly looked forward to reading it during Halloween, immersing myself in its captivating and slightly spooky atmosphere.

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Review: The Wedding Party

The Wedding Party by L.R. Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley.

Carrie and Oliver are the perfect couple, deeply in love and ready to host their dream wedding at the Stanley Hotel in Colorado. The celebration is set to be unforgettable, with family and friends coming together to share in their joy. However, the morning after the wedding, the festivities turn into a nightmare when murder strikes. Andi Castle, an FBI agent who was just attending as a plus-one, finds herself thrust into the role of investigator. As the hotel goes into lockdown and long-held secrets are exposed, Andi must race against time to uncover which secrets are worth killing for and prevent further deaths.

I'm giving this book a four-star rating, but I have to admit that I wasn't entirely pleased with the ending. The anticipation leading up to the resolution and the identity of the murderer left me with high expectations, and the ending fell a bit short for me. Nonetheless, I must credit the author for keeping me captivated throughout most of the book, especially with the detective, Andi.

Andi is a compelling character, and I appreciated the depth of her personality. Her struggles with commitment and her tenacity in pursuing the truth make her a great detective. Her unwavering trust in her instincts and refusal to take the easy way out were traits that added to her appeal. One aspect that occasionally grated on me was the repetition related to the stigma surrounding Andi's father. It came up frequently in interactions with other characters, and it started to become a bit annoying.

The setting, taking place in Denver, was intriguing. Even though I haven't personally visited the city, it's on my list of places to explore in the United States. The incorporation of "The Shining Hotel" was a fun touch, not necessarily crucial to the plot but still an enjoyable idea.

While the overall pacing of the book may be considered slow, the engaging writing style of the author kept me invested in the story.

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Review: The Heiress

The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley.

After the death of the infamous Ruby McTavish Callahan Woodward Miller Kenmore, her estate and vast fortune pass to her adopted son, Camden. However, Cam wishes to have nothing to do with the McTavish legacy and lives a quiet life as an English teacher in Colorado with his wife, Jules. A decade later, Cam's uncle's death summons them back to the grand Ashby House, the McTavish family estate. While the house is as magnificent as ever, returning to it reminds Cam of why he left in the first place.

Jules, on the other hand, is determined to help her husband claim everything Ruby intended for him. But as they delve deeper into Ruby's enigmatic family, they discover hidden secrets, including the rumors surrounding her childhood disappearance, the mysterious deaths of her four husbands, and the true reasons behind her adoption of Cam. The more they uncover, the more they realize that family ties and inheritances can be far more complex than they initially appeared.

This book held a fascinating concept of whether one can truly break free from their family's influence or their destined path. The backdrop of Ashby House added a rich layer to the narrative, as generations of the McTavish family are inextricably tied to the estate. The recurring themes of wealth, secrets, and their consequences were compelling, highlighting how money can make almost any problem disappear, even murder.

As for Ruby, her letters provided an intriguing glimpse into her character, although I expected her to be a more nurturing and parental figure considering her tumultuous past. It's no wonder that Cam found it challenging to escape his family's legacy, even with his determined efforts.

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Review: The Dinner Party

The Dinner Party by Rebecca Heath
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Aria & Aries via NetGalley.

In the scorching summer of 1979, four couples in the suburban neighborhood of Ridgefield come together for their weekly dinner party. It's a seemingly ordinary evening for friends to reconnect, showcase their ideal marriages, and escape from the demands of parenthood. However, behind the well-lit windows and manicured lawns, secrets simmer.

The tranquil evening takes a chilling turn when Frank Callaghan discovers his 4-month-old daughter, Megan, missing from her crib during his check on the sleeping children. The dinner guests insist they saw nothing, and no one left the table.

Fast forward forty years, Megan's sister, Amanda, still searches for answers. A stranger arrives at her doorstep, claiming to be Megan. Skepticism fills the air until they see what she holds: Megan's blanket, taken the night she disappeared.

Megan's sudden return raises numerous questions. Where has she been all these years? What really happened on that fateful night? How well do any of them truly know their neighbors? Rebecca Heath delivers a dark and twisty domestic thriller set in an ostensibly idyllic suburban neighborhood, where family secrets are kept deeply buried.

This novel was an engaging read, but I found myself predicting a significant plot twist about halfway through the book. The characters from the "dinner party from hell" night sometimes became a bit muddled in my mind. I wished for a deeper exploration of their relationships during that time, which would have added more depth to the story. Additionally, the podcast-style writing, while an interesting concept, didn't quite resonate with my personal reading preferences.

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Review: It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown by Charles M. Schulz

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown by Charles M. Schulz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this special 35th-anniversary tie-in to the beloved Peanuts television special, we witness a classic tale featuring Linus and his unwavering belief in the Great Pumpkin. Linus makes the bold decision to forgo trick-or-treating on Halloween and instead waits patiently in the pumpkin patch, hoping for the mythical arrival of the Great Pumpkin.

Adapted for the first time in decades, this heartwarming story captures the essence of Linus' endearing faith and his anticipation of a magical Halloween experience. Join Linus on his whimsical journey as he holds onto his belief in the Great Pumpkin, creating a charming and nostalgic atmosphere for readers of all ages.

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Review: Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Prepare yourself for a spine-chilling journey into the world of American folklore with this chilling addition to Alvin Schwartz's renowned collection. Filled with tales of eerie horror and dark revenge, this book will send shivers down your spine.

Within its pages, you'll encounter a variety of haunting stories that cater to every taste. From wandering skeletons with tattered flesh to vengeful ghosts seeking retribution upon their killers, each tale will leave you on edge. Brace yourself for the haunting presence of a house where a bloody head ominously descends the chimney every night.

Stephen Gammell's masterful illustrations add an extra layer of eerie atmosphere to over two dozen spooky stories and even eerie songs. These unsettling visuals perfectly capture the essence of each tale, making them ideal for both solitary reading sessions and for spine-tingling storytelling sessions in the dark.

Get ready to jump with fright as you immerse yourself in the macabre and unsettling world of this spooky folklore collection.

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Review: His Dark Kiss by Eve Silver

His Dark Kiss by Eve Silver
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Within the ancient walls of Manorbrier Castle, a haunting desire envelops Emma Parrish. Undeterred by rumors of madness and murder, she boldly accepts the position of governess to Lord Anthony Craven's son, despite the castle's foreboding atmosphere. As Emma explores the castle's depths, she becomes aware of unseen eyes watching her and eerie laughter that echoes through its halls. She is also drawn irresistibly to the enigmatic Lord Craven, despite the warnings and shadows that surround him.

Lord Anthony harbors dark secrets within the forbidden Round Tower of the estate. Mysterious lights flicker at night, and whispers of impending death circulate among the servants. He cautions Emma that his embrace holds danger, even as she finds herself irresistibly drawn to him.

As Emma succumbs to the seductive allure of Lord Craven, she cannot escape the whisper of evil that emanates from his hidden past. The deeper their connection grows, the more she is entangled in the web of darkness that surrounds him.

I found it to be overly dramatic and weighed down with excessive inner thoughts. The instant love between the characters lacked genuine chemistry, which left me wanting more development in their relationship. I didn't connect with the hero, Lord Anthony, as his secretive nature seemed more like an attempt to appear sinister rather than intriguing. While Emma eventually falls deeply in love with him, I struggled to buy into their connection when it initially happened in the story. The focus on the mystery would have made it more compelling.

I did enjoy aspects of the book, particularly the lighter approach to the Gothic elements. Both the hero and the heroine are tormented souls, and the eerie tower on the estate added an intriguing element. One highlight for me was Emma's character, who displayed compassion, directness, and intelligence without being frustratingly naive.

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Review: All the Little Raindrops

All the Little Raindrops by Mia Sheridan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Note: I received this book through Amazon's First Reads Program.

During their senior-year spring break, Noelle Meyer and Evan Sinclair find themselves abducted without knowing the reason behind their selection. They share a tragic past, as Evan's father was responsible for Noelle's mother's death, causing her family's ruin when the incident was mistakenly deemed an accident.

Surprisingly, instead of becoming adversaries, Noelle and Evan forge an alliance, confronting the perpetrators who connect them. Together, they endure a series of sadistic trials, ultimately managing a harrowing escape. However, every triumph comes with its own sacrifices.

Years later, Evan, now working as a private investigator, reopens the case when he suspects it might still be ongoing. He reaches out to Noelle for assistance, and they uncover leads pointing to an enigmatic figure known as the Collector. To bring closure to their own ordeal and to solve related cases, Noelle and Evan embark on a mission to unveil the identity of this elusive observer, the sole individual possessing enough secrets to dismantle their captors.

This book delves into a deeply unsettling and horrifying concept, and yet, it manages to be remarkably intriguing. The narrative explores the profound levels of depravity that humans can inflict upon one another, as well as the incredible resilience people can summon to endure unimaginable pain. The story also delves into the disturbing idea that, with enough wealth and influence, there are virtually no boundaries, not even the act of murder.

What truly captivated me was the author's writing style. It was characterized by its depth and emotional intensity, but it remained relatable and flowed smoothly throughout the book. This skillful combination of vivid emotions and a cohesive narrative made for a captivating reading experience.

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Review: The Couple in the Photo

The Couple in the Photo by Helen Cooper
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from PENGUIN GROUP Putnam via NetGalley.

Lucy and her husband, Adam, share a close friendship with another couple, Cora and Scott. These four friends are practically family, sharing vacations, co-owning a beach cottage, and watching their young children grow up together. However, Lucy's world is shattered when she comes across a photo of Scott on a luxurious trip with another woman, during a colleague's presentation on the Maldives.

Lucy is determined to shield her best friend, Cora, from the potential infidelity, but her concern deepens when she learns that the woman in the photograph has gone missing. This leads her to suspect Scott's involvement in the disappearance. As she embarks on a quest for answers, Lucy uncovers hidden truths about her friends and even her own husband, secrets that have the power to unravel the lives they've so carefully built.

Amid her investigation, Lucy begins to suspect that everyone around her holds knowledge about the missing woman, knowledge they are keeping hidden. The narrative raises questions about the consequences of unearthing the truth, and whether Lucy, the one seemingly in the dark, will pay a price for discovering the secrets that lie beneath the surface.

This book was an intriguing exploration of complex family dynamics and the way relationships can unravel under the weight of shocking revelations. I found myself questioning how I would react if I were in Lucy's shoes, faced with an overwhelming amount of information and difficult decisions. The author masterfully conveyed the initial closeness of the family, and it was fascinating to see how this bond slowly disintegrated as the story unfolded.

Scott was a character who left me on edge throughout the book. He exuded a sense of unpredictability and cagey behavior that kept me guessing about his true nature and what he might do next. In contrast, Cora seemed to have it together the most within the group. However, the character who intrigued me the most was Adam. His interactions with Lucy raised questions about the authenticity of their relationship right from the start, and I found myself constantly reevaluating their connection.

One aspect that had me wondering was why Lucy, (view spoiler)[after initially turning Scott in, would later appear to protect him. The transformation in her stance towards Scott added layers of complexity to the story, making it an engaging read. (hide spoiler)]

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Review: The Frozen River

The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Doubleday Books via NetGalley.

In 1789, during a harsh Maine winter, the Kennebec River freezes, preserving a man's body within the ice. Martha Ballard, the local midwife and healer, is called upon to examine the body and determine the cause of death. With her impeccable ability to keep secrets, Martha's diary is a repository of all the births, deaths, and the various mysteries that unfold in Hallowell, their small town.

Martha's diary also holds the dark details of a rape that allegedly occurred four months prior. Now, one of the men accused of that horrific crime is discovered dead in the ice. Martha, convinced she knows the truth about the assault, suspects a connection between these two cases, sensing that there's more to both stories than initially meets the eye. As the trial approaches and tensions escalate, Martha's diary takes center stage, threatening to unravel her family and community as whispers and prejudices intensify.

"The Frozen River" captivated me with its intriguing premise, drawing from the real-life diaries of Martha Ballard. This novel beautifully weaves her life story and paints a vivid picture of her character. The author's dedication to crafting a tale from the limited historical records is commendable.

Martha Ballard's character, as portrayed in the book, shines as a compelling figure, offering insightful glimpses into the hardships and challenges faced by women in her era. Her journey towards becoming a respected medical professional during a time when women's roles were severely limited is both touching and heart-wrenching.

While the book was an engrossing exploration of Martha's life, I found it a tad lengthy, and the pace made it a slow read for me. Despite my admiration for Martha's character, I wished for a more immersive connection to the narrative. The numerous characters introduced occasionally made it challenging to keep track of them.

One aspect that truly stood out was Martha's relationship with Ephraim. His progressive and loving support for her ambitions as a midwife and in her quest for education was heartwarming and added depth to the story.

The evocative descriptions and vivid setting in the brutal Maine winter created a rich and immersive backdrop for the mystery, effectively setting the mood for the entire tale.

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Review: The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kit Tyler, an orphaned young girl, finds herself in a starkly different world upon arriving in the Connecticut Colony. The strict and austere Puritan community contrasts sharply with her vibrant Caribbean upbringing, leaving her feeling like a trapped bird. The only solace she finds is in the meadows, where she befriends the unconventional Quaker woman called the Witch of Blackbird Pond, and occasionally spends time with her sailor friend Nat. However, when Kit's association with the "witch" is exposed, she becomes the target of suspicion, fear, and accusations of witchcraft.

As an adult revisiting this book from my childhood, I found that it didn't quite live up to my memories. However, I still appreciated the engaging storyline and memorable characters that made it enjoyable when I first read it.

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Review: Five Little Pumpkins by Dan Yaccarino

Five Little Pumpkins by Dan Yaccarino
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Join the mischievous adventure of five little pumpkins perched on a gate as they come to life in this delightful rhyme. With each passing moment, the pumpkins bring excitement and laughter to young readers. Vibrant illustrations by Dan Yaccarino add personality and charm to these playful pumpkins. Get ready to roll with laughter as these spirited pumpkins take you on a wickedly fun journey that toddlers will want to experience again and again.

This delightful rhyming song is a simple and brief read, with an added counting element that adds to the fun. Yaccarino's artwork shines in this book, providing an enjoyable visual experience. While it may be a short read-aloud, it is sure to entertain the youngest children and leave them wanting more.

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Review: The Engagement Party

The Engagement Party by Darby Kane
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from William Morrow via NetGalley.

In the past, Emily Hunt, a student at an affluent liberal arts school, went missing during her graduation weekend. Her body was later discovered in a river, and a fellow student who was relatively unknown to most on campus took his own life. Law enforcement connected the two deaths based on a single text message, ultimately closing the case. However, it turns out they made a grave mistake, and now someone is determined to correct it.

Twelve years later, a group of college friends gathers for an engagement celebration on a remote private island in Maine. The island has only one way in and one way out. Sierra Prescott, an unrelated guest, begins to sense that something is amiss, even though she has no connection to the past events.

Tensions rise when the group finds a dead man in a car trunk along with a message that urges them to reveal the truth. Stranded by a torrential storm, the group's concealed stories start to resurface, and secrets are exchanged. To survive this perilous gathering, they must uncover the identity of the killer before they become the next victims.

While I'm typically a fan of thrilling whodunit mysteries, this particular book left me somewhat underwhelmed in terms of the excitement factor that usually accompanies figuring out the culprit. Unfortunately, none of the characters managed to capture my full attention, and if I had to choose a favorite, I'd probably lean towards Sierra, although I felt that even her character fell a bit short of my expectations, particularly in terms of her personality.

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Review: Big Pumpkin by Erica Silverman

Big Pumpkin by Erica Silverman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this charming Halloween picture book, a clever little bat takes center stage, showcasing the power of wit and ingenuity over mere strength.

The story revolves around a witch who has grown an enormous pumpkin, intending to use it for a Halloween pumpkin pie. However, the pumpkin proves to be too large for the witch, as well as for other spooky creatures like the ghost, vampire, and mummy. It seems that the Halloween festivities will be without their anticipated pumpkin pie.

But fear not, for in swoops the tiny bat, armed with a brilliant plan to save the day. How can such a small creature succeed where larger and stronger beings have failed? Prepare to be pleasantly surprised as the bat's cleverness and resourcefulness unfold in this delightful tale.

This not-so-scary Halloween picture book celebrates the idea that size and strength aren't the only factors for accomplishing tasks. With its delightful storyline and endearing characters, it is sure to capture the hearts of both children and adults alike. Get ready to be charmed by the bat's ingenuity and enjoy a heartwarming Halloween adventure.

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Review: A Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith

A Whisper on the Wind by Joan Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Rosalie falls in love with the charming Fraser Audry, who sweeps her off her feet with his good looks, charm, and extravagant gifts. They have a whirlwind courtship and a beautiful wedding in Paris. However, upon returning to England, Rosalie begins to feel that something is amiss. Strangers treat her like an old friend, and a man she doesn't recognize brings up a shared past. Rosalie becomes increasingly fearful as she follows false leads and encounters strange occurrences. Despite seeking solace in her husband's arms, a mysterious warning urges her not to trust her own heart.

This tale, brimming with suspense and uncertainty, will captivate you from the very first page. The author masterfully weaves an intricate tapestry of mystery, romance, and Gothic elements, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the final, jaw-dropping revelation.

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Review: Prince of Never

Prince of Never by Lorelei Johnson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Xpresso Book Tours via NetGalley.

In a world where a fae prince's destiny hangs in the balance, a surprising twist unfolds. Tarian, the prince, faces an unexpected obstacle on his path to the throne: a human librarian named Imogen. Contrary to his expectations of a formidable adversary, Imogen is a woman with a penchant for recklessness and a serious lack of self-preservation instincts. She becomes the very dilemma that stands between him and his crown.

Imogen has always fought for control, both over herself and her life, especially when the world questions her sanity. But when Tarian, a fae prince, whisks her away to another realm, she's forced to confront her deepest fears. The line between reality and madness blurs as she navigates this unfamiliar world.

First off, there is a substantial amount of profanity in this book! It's a surprising choice given the protagonist, Tarian, is a prince and the heir to the throne. Unfortunately, Tarian doesn't come across as the powerful and regal figure one might expect. Instead, he often appears as a temperamental individual who struggles to control his emotions when things don't go his way. This portrayal doesn't make him a compelling or particularly attractive character. Despite the fear surrounding Tarian in the story, it's hard to discern any significant reason for this intimidation factor. He lacks the strong and charismatic presence expected of a future ruler. Imogen, the other protagonist, seems to consistently engage in a series of questionable decisions throughout the narrative. While the author may have aimed to depict her as a character who defies societal norms, her actions come across as impulsive and, at times, foolish.(view spoiler)[Why would she come back when all she wanted to do was escape and go home? Not to mention she pissed off the queen so that seems like a pretty big impending death right there. (hide spoiler)]

‘I don’t deserve you,’ he said, his voice hoarse as his hands slid up my waist. ‘But I’m going to take you anyway.’ - Such a stupid line!

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Review: The Cliff House

The Cliff House by Chris Brookmyre
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from W. W. Norton & Company via NetGalley.

She felt no pleasure or satisfaction over her revenge: that was the hollow truth those seeking vengeance only ever discovered too late.

At Jen's extravagant hen party held on a remote private island, the stage is set for a weekend of indulgence and celebration. With no immediate means of escape, the attendees find themselves in isolation, believing they are the only ones on the island. But they couldn't be more wrong.

Among the partygoers are Jen herself, a pop diva, a former bandmate with a strained relationship, a tennis professional, a fashion icon, an embittered former sister-in-law, and a candid future sister-in-law. The mix of personalities is explosive, and the tension quickly escalates. Amidst the drunken revelry, one of them mysteriously vanishes without a trace.

Suddenly, a chilling message arrives, revealing that unless someone confesses a deeply buried secret to the group, their missing friend's life hangs in the balance. The dilemma is that each person harbors their own closely guarded secret, and none are willing to divulge. As the pressure mounts, alliances shift, and trust among friends turns to suspicion.

The question becomes, who among them is willing to reveal their terrible secret to save their friend, and who is willing to go to great lengths to protect their own hidden truths?

The setting of an isolated island is a brilliant choice in this story. It adds an extra layer of intrigue and suspense to the plot. The idea of being cut off from the rest of the world without cell service creates a sense of vulnerability and isolation, making it the perfect backdrop for a thrilling mystery.

However, the decision to split up into pairs does raise some questions. Given the circumstances of a potential murder, logic would typically dictate that staying together as a group would be the safest course of action. The idea that one of them couldn't have been the killer is a valid point, and it does seem like a flaw in their logic. But sometimes, in stories like these, characters' decisions are driven by fear, panic, or mistrust, which can cloud their judgment and lead to unexpected consequences.

I personally resent the comment Beattie makes regarding Kennedy’s life choices. Just because she chose not to have kids in her twenties does not mean she isn’t a grown-up. I do not understand why the older generation looks down on women so much if they want to choose not to have kids at all.

In any case, the setting and the characters' decisions contribute to the tension and suspense of the story, keeping readers engaged and eager to unravel the mystery of what went wrong on that secluded island.

On a side note: I love Karen Millen clothing, I saw them in London for the first time and bought three dresses!

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