Review: The Plus One

The Plus One by S.C. Lalli
My rating: 2 of 5 stars



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Review: That Night in the Library

That Night in the Library by Eva Jurczyk
My rating: 2 of 5 stars



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Review: Buy This, Not That: How to Spend Your Way to Wealth and Freedom

Buy This, Not That: How to Spend Your Way to Wealth and Freedom by Sam Dogen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars



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Review: The Unwedding

The Unwedding by Ally Condie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Note: I received an advanced copy of this book from Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley.

Ellery Wainwright's journey begins with anticipation, as she prepares to celebrate her twentieth wedding anniversary with her husband, Luke, at the luxurious Resort at Broken Point. However, her excitement is dashed when she finds herself traveling alone, her dreams of a blissful reunion shattered.

As Ellery navigates the idyllic yet unsettling surroundings of Broken Point, she is confronted with the stark reality of her solitude. The presence of a wedding at the resort serves as a poignant reminder of the new beginnings and hopeful futures that once seemed within reach. Now, uncertainty hangs heavy in the air, casting a shadow over the picturesque landscape.

The discovery of a body floating in the pool amidst the rain plunges Ellery into a nightmare she never could have imagined. Trapped at Broken Point by a mudslide that blocks the road, the guests find themselves ensnared in a web of secrets and deception. As another guest meets a tragic end, it becomes clear that danger lurks within the resort's seemingly tranquil facade.

Throughout the unfolding chaos, Ellery grapples with her own uncertainties and insecurities, haunted by the shadows of her past and the secrets that threaten to unravel her present. As she delves deeper into the mysteries of Broken Point, she realizes that everyone harbors their own secrets, and trust becomes a scarce commodity in this isolated paradise.

While the setting of the book is undeniably captivating, the momentum of the story begins to wane as it progresses. What starts as a promising narrative ultimately loses its grip. I thought Ellery's motivations and decisions became increasingly perplexing as the story went on. The book falls short of its potential due to pacing issues and a lack of clarity in character development.

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Review: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In the town of Whoville, the Grinch, a grumpy creature living in a cave, despises the joyful holiday celebrations of the Whos. Tired of the noise and merriment, he concocts a plan to put an end to their happiness once and for all. Disguised as Santa Claus, the Grinch steals the Whos' presents, food, and even their festive logs.

With a heavy heart, the Grinch takes his loot to Mt. Crumpit, anticipating the sorrowful cries of the Whos when they wake up to find their Christmas treasures gone. However, to his surprise, instead of tears, he hears singing. The Whos display unwavering cheerfulness despite their loss, proving that joy and the holiday spirit cannot be stolen.

Dr. Seuss weaves a triumphant and twisted tale that captures both the adoration and fear of children. It highlights the resilience and unwavering cheerfulness of the Whos, emphasizing the power of joy and the potential for a small heart to grow.

This timeless holiday classic is perfect for reading aloud to your favorite little ones, immersing them in the whimsical world of the Grinch and the undying spirit of the Whos.

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Review: A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz

A Charlie Brown Christmas by Charles M. Schulz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In the festive atmosphere of Christmas, Charlie Brown finds himself lacking the holiday spirit while everyone around him embraces the joy of the season. It appears that the true meaning of Christmas has been forgotten by those around him. However, with the help of Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the lovable Peanuts gang, some delightful holiday surprises are in store. Through their heartwarming gestures, they bring cheer and merriment that even touch Charlie Brown's heart, reminding him of the true essence of Christmas. Join the Peanuts gang as they spread holiday joy and rediscover the magic of this special time of year.

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Review: Lonely Hearts

Lonely Hearts by Lisa Gray
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Note: I received a copy of this book via NetGalley.


In the thriller "Lonely Hearts," private investigator Jessica Shaw delves into a complex missing persons case involving Veronica Lowe, who vanished years ago after being involved with a notorious serial killer on Death Row. As Jessica uncovers Veronica's ties to the prison pen pal service, the Lonely Hearts Club, she realizes the danger Veronica and her daughter may be facing, especially when a series of murders echo the killer's M.O.

The book delivers a series of intriguing twists and turns, creating an engaging, mystery-laden narrative. It strikes a balance between dark themes involving serial killers and a more light-hearted reading experience, making it a compelling choice for bedtime reading. The characters are eccentric and captivating, particularly Jessica, who's portrayed realistically but isn't always endearing. While the storyline offers depth, some aspects could be deemed predictable, and the recurring element involving Connor feels somewhat repetitive. Nevertheless, the increased suspense adds an interesting layer to the narrative.

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Review: Charting the Course

Charting the Course by Leslea Wahl
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Note: I received a copy of this book from ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op via NetGalley.

Liz would prefer any destination other than a ten-day Caribbean cruise with her estranged father attending his high school reunion. Despite the distraction of an anonymous note, an onboard mystery, and the company of a cute boy, the trip only widens the gap between Liz and her father. Liz's impulsive actions, triggering unintended consequences, force her to confront her deep-seated hurt and anger. Struggling to maintain her carefully crafted facade, Liz turns to her faith, embarking on a journey to redefine her life.

Honestly, I felt like I was reading a highlight reel of a cruise vacation. You know, the kind where everyone is nonchalantly partaking in a multitude of activities, from salsa dancing lessons to synchronized swimming. I've been on my fair share of cruises, and either I'm missing out on the secret life of cruisegoers or Liz has some kind of time-stretching device that the rest of us don't. The narrative was zipping through activities faster than the ship itself. Now, the plot. I appreciate a good mystery, but this felt like a cozy mystery's distant relative. I kept waiting for the surprising twist, but it was more like a predictable turn.

However, what did strike a chord with me was Liz's internal struggle. The portrayal of her relationship with her father, the emotional turbulence, and her attempt to navigate through the hurt and anger felt genuine. It was like sailing through a sea of emotions, and in that regard, the author did well in capturing the turmoil within Liz.

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Review: The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss

The Cat in the Hat by Dr. Seuss
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Prepare for an exhilarating adventure on a gloomy day as we meet the mischievous Cat in the Hat and his troublemaking companions, Thing 1 and Thing 2. Don't forget about Fish, who adds to the chaos! This beloved story captivates the hearts of children, parents, and teachers alike.

Through simple words and engaging rhyme, this tale encourages and delights beginning readers. It transforms a dreary day into a wild romp filled with excitement and laughter. Join the Cat in the Hat and his whimsical friends as they bring joy and mischief into the lives of readers young and old. It's a timeless favorite that will leave a lasting impression and foster a love of reading.

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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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