The Death Mask - Iris Johansen

 The Death Mask - Iris Johansen

Pub. Date: June 24, 2025

She read

A heinous character has discovered a valuable tomb in Africa and wants forensic sculptor Even Duncan to make the death mask for the woman whose tomb it is. He has chosen beautiful Bostonian Celine to serve as the model for it and enlists evil characters to “persuade” both women to participate. It is up to Eve’s husband, detective Joe Quinn and Alex Dominic, a wealthy mercenary, to save them and all they hold dear. 

For me, this was a poor choice. I should not have picked up a novel that was the 31st in a series, knowing nothing about it.  However, I did want to read something by a new to me author and Iris Johansen is a prolific and popular writer. I wasn’t familiar with the characters, their relationships, or their histories. The synopsis did not provide a lot of information and because of that, I realized it was not a book that I would typically select. 

As the book progressed, I did learn some things about the repeating characters, but still had a lot of questions about them.

This will be a welcome addition for fans of this series. There is action, excitement, adventure, kick ass female characters. There are also some extremely despicable players who were a turn off for me. There will be a big audience for this book, but unfortunately, I  am just not it. 

Bullies who seek retribution for people who insult them not my thing.  Seeing enough of that in real life right now.  Not fond of characters 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #GrandCentralPub for the DRC. 

****

Death at the White Hart - Chris Chibnall

 Death at the White Hart - Chris Chibnall

Pub. Date: June 10, 2025

She read

A dead body is found in the middle of the road in a Dorset coastal community. The victim has been tied to a chair, with stag antlers attached to his head. Detective Nicola Bridge has just transferred here, her hometown, from Liverpool. Thinking this will be a quiet location, she finds herself immediately coping with a homicide, few support staff, and many suspects. 

From the creator of Broadchurch, this has some of the same, small village quirkiness as the TV show. Well plotted, it is an engrossing, suspenseful read; entertaining, with a bit of humor. There are colorful characters, red herrings, twists, and turns. I like Nicola, a capable individual dealing with personal issues while doing her best at her job. I also like Harry, her younger, less experienced partner who proves to be adept. 

I hope this will become a book series by Chibnall and perhaps optioned for TV as well.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #VikingPenquin for the  DRC.

The Book of Everyday Resistance - Lori Perkins, Christopher Golden, Jessica Pipp, Michele Hornish, David Freed, Ed Stein, Riki Wilchins

The Book of Everyday Resistance - Lori Perkins, Christopher Golden, Jessica Pipp, Michele Hornish, David Freed, Ed Stein, Riki Wilchins

 This is a book of essays responding to our present political situation in the US. The entries are written by people with a variety of backgrounds, including attorneys, teachers, writers, artists, poets, mothers, fathers. They all have been affected in some way by what is happening right now.

Mostly prose, there is some poetry, all providing ways in our lives that we can feel we are doing something to address our concerns. Some of the essays miss a bit, others are right on, some heartbreaking, others uplifting….but they are all worthwhile reads.

Whether you feel helpless, hopeless, enraged, indifferent, there is something here to help with those feelings and what individuals can do to effect positive change.

Available as a free download to all by the publisher (Riverdale Ave Books), I have recommended this quick read to all my friends.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Riverdaleavebooks for the DRC.

*****

The Sublet - Greer Hendriks

 The Sublet - Greer Hendriks

She read

Anne is a ghost writer who has just signed an NDA to write a motivational wellness book for Melody Wells. A bit overwhelmed with balancing the demands of her job with married life and twin children, Anne and her family are in desperate need of a larger apartment. Melody assists her by telling her about an almost too good to be true sublet that is available. After she moves, Anne realizes all may not be as it appears in the new apartment and the history of its previous tenant.

This is a short story written by an author who has co authored a number of books I have enjoyed. This was a quick, but entertaining read. It is a mystery bordering on horror. I loved how Hendriks captured the “new agey”  and cringiness of Melody, a wellness guru. I did think that the story wrapped up a very quickly.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #AmazonPublishing for the DRC.

****

A Question of Betrayal - Anne Perry

 A Question of Betrayal - Anne Perry

She read

Elena Standish, posing as a photographer, is sent to Trieste to rescue fellow MI6 agent Aiden Strother. He is her former lover who betrayed her and possibly his country. It is 1933 and Hitler and Mussolini are ascending. These are dangerous times. Meanwhile, Elena’s sister travels to Germany for the marriage of a friend to a rising star in the Gestapo. Back in Britain, their grandfather, former head of MI6, is tipped off that there are traitors in the government who are helping to fund the Nazis. 

This has been on my TBR for a long time.  It is the second in the Elena Standish series. I read the third one, liked it, and wanted to go back and read the prior installments.

Well written with much historical accuracy, there is suspense, intrigue, and even fashion commentary. It makes for a fast, engrossing read.

Although it was released in 2020 and takes place in 1933, this book may be more pertinent today given our present political climate. There are so many quotes here that resonated with me and I saw as a warning for our times.I found myself underlining line after line to go back to read and think about later. 

This could work well as a standalone.There are three subsequent entries in the series; Anne Perry passed away in 2023.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @RandomHouse #BallantineBooks for the DRC. 

*****

#AQuestionofBetrayal #AnnePerry #Mystery #

All Roads Lead to Rome - Yamile Saied Méndez

All Roads Lead to Rome - Yamile Saied Méndez

 Stevie Choi’s plans for her future encounter a detour by a tragedy when she is seventeen. She compensates for her heartbreak by becoming successful in her chosen job. While attending a friend’s wedding in Rome, she meets handsome, charming Cristian. She has been warned about him, but the attraction is there. Despite living far apart, they choose to remain friends until something tears them apart. Will they ever be reunited and will Stevie find peace in her life? 

The synopsis I read about this book did not emphasize that the traumatic event in Stevie’s life at seventeen and that the long lasting intrusion and affects of grief were an important part of this story, as well as the cool treatment of her by her mother. Had it, I might not have chosen this book. However, it did turn out to be an engaging read. There is not a lot of com in the rom com of this story, yet I liked Stevie’s character and was rooting for her. There is a lot here…friendship, found family, healing, learning to pursue your dreams. Incidentally, despite the title, not a lot of time is spent in Rome. Actually, there is more about Utah, where Stevie lives, along with a captivating visit to Egypt. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @KensingtonBooks for the DRC.

****

To Hell With It - Claire Frances

 To Hell With It - Claire Frances

Pub. Date: June 1, 2025

She read

Pearl is a young woman living in Ireland whose life is inhibited by her OCD. A chance encounter with a handsome stranger ends up with him naked in her bed. She falls for him and with support from her therapist and friends, she uncharacteristically follows him to New Zealand. 

Written by a debut author with wit and compassion, the story is predictable but nevertheless engaging. The first person perspective made me feel close to Pearl. I enjoyed the humor displayed throughout, especially that from Pearl’s best friend, Una. I loved that the townspeople accepted her and often made accommodations for her OCD. There was good insight into some of the coping strategies for people with this condition. There is personal growth for Pearl, but the author is clear that there is no simple “ fix” for this malady.

Thanks to #Netgalley and @OneMoreChapterHC for the DRC.

****

Fox - Joyce Carol Oates

 Fox - Joyce Carol Oates

Pub. Date: June 17, 2025

She read

Trigger Warnings: pedophilia, self harm, graphic descriptions; sensitive readers may find it disturbing.

There is so much to this psychological thriller. In short, a charismatic, chameleon pedophile infuses himself into and captivates an exclusive private school, affecting the lives of students, staff, and residents of a small town in Southern New Jersey. When his car and decayed body are found in a local waterway, the story of his life unravels as do the lives of those around him.

Despite the dark subject, this is beautifully written and despite the length (600+ pages), riveting. With well developed characterizations, there are multiple POVs and dual timelines. The story is unsettling, compelling, realistic, thought provoking and one that just may stay with you a while. 

The publisher’s synopsis notes this book is reminiscent of Lolita and The Talented Mr. Ripley….and it is.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @RandomHouse for the DRC.

*****

The Santorini Writing Retreat - Eva Glyn

 The Santorini Writing Retreat - Eva Glyn

Pub. Date: May 22, 2025

She read

Zina and Lambros return to her home on Santorini to help her widowed mother. Lambros wants to start farming while Zina creates a small resort to host retreats. Her first is one for writers led by an author who published a very successful book under a pen name but hides a deep dark secret. Each of the guests has something they want to achieve, as well as personal issues with which to deal.

This book continues the character of Karmela introduced in Glyn’s novel, Dubrovnik Book Club. A refugee from Sarajevo during the Bosnian war and now living in Zagreb, I enjoyed learning more about her background as well as seeing her newly found confidence.

As a writer, Glyn does a wonderful job of creating a strong sense of place.  She paints a beautiful picture of Santorini; I could just imagine walking among the white washed walls and blue doors, the red, pink and orange of the bougainvillea and oleander, the glorious sunsets. And the food! My mouth is watering for good Greek cooking. 

This is a story of friendship, courage, relationships, and personal growth, along with some writing tips. There are a few storylines which lead to quite a bit of introspection. Some readers might find it slow. But, relax, settle in, and enjoy visiting this beautiful island and the characters as they flourish.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter for the DRC.

****

The Essential Travel Guide for Unforgettable Destinations Exploring Famous Landmarks and Beyond in New York City - Sierra Quest

 

The Essential Travel Guide for Unforgettable Destinations Exploring Famous Landmarks and Beyond in New York City - Sierra Quest

Pub. Date: Jun 7, 2025

She read

I Love New York….this is  more than a slogan to me…I really do! This guidebook provides an overview of the top spots to visit in New York City. For many of them, it doesn’t provide specifics in terms of how to get there or address, but is helpful in compiling a list of must see places. I liked that they included some sights and activities in not just Manhattan, but also the outer Boroughs. I also liked that they discussed some of the various neighborhoods, something that is helpful for people unfamiliar with “The City.” I’m glad they included pizza in their discussion of Greenwich Village! They just touched on a few neighborhoods; I would have enjoyed them mentioning more of them, especially in Manhattan.

I did appreciate that they provided addresses for some of their culinary recommendations, but thought it would have been helpful to more specifically identify the locations of some of their recommendations such as the Chelsea Art District.

In all, this is a solid introduction to New York City. I read an advanced copy of it and hope they have enough time to note in their section about public transportation that Metro Cards will only be available until the end of 2025.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @victoryeditingngc for the DRC.

****

Fulfillment - Lee Cole

 Fulfillment - Lee Cole

Pub. Date: June 17, 2025

She and he Read

College professor Joel, who has written an academically successful book, is married to Alice, a woman tiring of domestic life and longing for something else. When he returns to his hometown in Kentucky for a visiting teaching job, he is reunited with his family including half brother, Emmett. Emmett has never quite gotten it together. A college dropout who aspires to being a screen writer, his present job, in a long list of them, is at an online store fulfillment center. As a relationship develops between Alice and Emmett, lives spiral out of control.

How do we find fulfillment in our lives? As each of the main characters in this well written, complex novel strives to find it, Cole paints a realistic picture of present day American rural south and our contemporary political culture. Family, guilt, class, longing, resentment, yearning….it is all here, along with insight into the different Americas that have been ripped apart by the politics of our times. As with his first novel, Groundskeeping, which I loved, dialog is written sans quotation marks. 

He also read this and really liked it.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @aaknopf for the DRC. 

*****

The Essential Travel Guide for Unforgettable Destinations - Navigating Must-See Attractions in London - Sierra Quest

 The Essential Travel Guide for Unforgettable Destinations - Navigating Must-See Attractions in London  -  Sierra Quest

Pub. Date: June 1, 2025

She read

 

Having spent some time visiting London, I found this guide to identify the don’t miss highlights as well as some off the beaten path destinations. Whether one is interested in history, food, music, art, shopping there is something here for everyone. I have already made some notes of places and neighborhoods I want to visit on my next trip there, as well as some day trips I missed last time I was there.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @victoryeditingngc for the DRC.

*****

Storybook Ending - Moira Macdonald

 Storybook Ending - Moira Macdonald

Pub. Date: May 27, 2025

She read

April leads a solitary existence as remote worker. She decides to take a chance on developing a relationship with a handsome man, Westley, who works at her favorite bookstore. Her choice of communication is to leave an anonymous note for him in a book, requesting he respond to her via a note left in another book.  Through a slip up, the note is found by Laura, a widowed mother who just might be ready for dating and thinks it is from Westley. And thus, this strange triangle begins.

This is a cute, feel good story of misunderstandings, connections, friendships, found family. The richly drawn characters are unique in their own special ways. Written by a debut author with humor, compassion, and a love of reading and bookstores, it may be just the tonic some of us need right now. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Penguinbooks for the DRC.

****

A Dead Draw - Robert Dugoni

 A Dead Draw - Robert Dugoni

Pub. Date: May 27, 2025

She read

After a mistake on the firing range fueled by her alarming interaction with a double homicide suspect who ignites memories of her sister’s killer, Seattle homicide Detective Tracy Crosswhite takes some time off and returns to her hometown of Cedar Grove where she must revisit the tragedy of her younger sister’s murder. This time, though, Tracy is the target. 

Dugoni’s books are always well written with intriguing plots and good character development. This was another page turner that I didn’t want to put down. An avid reader of this series, I appreciated gaining more insight into Tracy’s background and psyche. Kudos for including a neurodivergent character and portraying her realistically. 

While I did enjoy this, the eleventh installment, it wasn’t my favorite; too much about guns and competitive shooting. Do be sure, though, to read the author’s notes at the end where he discusses his background inspiration for aspects of this story.

A Dead Draw can be read as a standalone, but if you enjoy a good police procedural and this is your first Tracy Crosswhite novel, you will want to go back and read the earlier ones as well.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @AmazonPublishing #ThomasandMercer for  the DRC.

****

The Last Ferry Out - Andrea Bartz

 The Last Ferry Out - Andrea Bartz

Pub. Date: May 20, 2025

She read

When Abby’s fianceé, Eszter dies while visiting an isolated island in Mexico, she feels a need to travel there as she has some unanswered question. The locals are very protective of their island, although they tolerate a small group of expats whom Eszter befriended. As Abby gets to know the group, she has even more questions, learns secrets that Eszter was keeping, and fears she may be in danger. 

I have read and enjoyed prior works by this author. Atmospheric, with an interesting plot and clever twist, the story was revealed through alternating timelines and POVs. A bit of a slow burn, I felt it got bogged down at times with Abby’s introspection and deliberations. While I read the book quickly as I did want to find out what happened, it just didn’t draw me in as much as it should have. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #RandomHouse for the DRC.

***

25 Alive

 25 Alive (Women's Murder Club) - James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

Pub. Date: April 28,  2025

She read

The Women’s Murder Club is back in action when Lindsay Boxer’s former partner, mentor and friend Warren Jacobi is murdered and she heads the investigation. Meanwhile, Yuki is in danger prosecuting a cartel family member for murder which Joe, Lindsay’s FBI husband, gets involved with.

This is the twenty fifth in this best selling mystery series. I have read most of them, although I missed the last few. It was nice being reacquainted with these characters, whom I enjoy.

Trust Patterson and this series to deliver a fast paced, suspenseful story with twists, red herrings, and colorful characters. Fans of this series will welcome this addition. Anyone new to The Women’s Murder Club will have no difficulty catching up with the characters and their professional and personal relationships. This may be my first beach read recommendation of the year!

*****

Thanks to #NetGalley and @LittleBrown for the DRC.

Nightshade - Michael Connelly

 Nightshade - Michael Connelly

Pub. Date: May 20, 2025

She read

trouble. The latest one is stubborn, hard nosed, but very capable  Detective Stilwell. While building a relationship with a local woman, he is faced with solving two crimes; the beheading of a protected buffalo and the body of a young woman found trapped under the sea. While investigating, he crosses some lines and is also forced to work with an old nemesis. 

I have enjoyed Michael Connelly’s books for more years than I care to count so am thrilled that he is introducing a new character in this, his fortieth novel. Connelly writes consistently captivating stories; this is a solid addition to his body of work.

Well plotted, with memorable characters, Nightshade is an engrossing read. I always appreciate the bits of humor Connelly injects into his books. If you are a fan of this author, you will welcome this new character and setting. If he is new to you, be sure to get in on the ground floor of this first of a series.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @LittleBrown for the DRC.

*****

The Doorman - Chris Pavone

 The Doorman - Chris Pavone

She and he read

Pub. Date: May 20, 2025

As readers can easily find an online synopsis of this book, I am not going to summarize it other than to say it is the story of a doorman at an exclusive upper Manhattan apartment building and some of its inhabitants set in the social and political sphere of contemporary times. I don’t like to compare one book to another, but, for me, it is this generation’s Bonfire of the Vanities.

Well plotted and suspenseful, Pavone’s characterizations are masterful. He captures the pulse of New York City, along with the nuances and issues reflective of our societal and political culture. Here is social class, fiscal struggling and striving, racism, prejudice, blowback from so called woke values and initiatives. There are sharp, attuned, sometimes poignant observations of life. I did not want to put this book down and flew through it. Oh, and, yes, it is also a thriller.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @fsgBooks for the DRC.

*****

Hidden Angels - Carolyn Arnold

 Hidden Angels - Carolyn Arnold

Pub. Date: Feb. 20, 2025

She read 

SO HAPPY TO BE ON THE BOOK TOUR!

When Cameron Cofell takes a local priest hostage, a stray bullet exposes human remains in the wall of a church. Cameron believes the priest is responsible for covering up the abuse he received at the hands of his now deceased parents.The human remains are those of a teenage girl who was abducted more than thirty years ago. Detective Amanda Steele and partner Trent Stenson investigate this heartbreaking case which uncovers long hidden secrets and puts another life in danger. 

This is yet another of Arnold’s fast paced, suspenseful police procedurals.She is one of my go to authors and does not disappoint. She knows how to capture and maintain readers' interest and keep them briskly turning the pages. I enjoy the repeating characters, especially Amanda who, despite an earlier tragedy in her life, is a strong, capable, independent female. Yes, she has her flaws and one of them may be caring too much. 

This is the thirteenth in the Prince William County (VA) Detective Amanda Steele series. Although I have read many of them, I think this would work as a standalone. 

If you are a fan of police procedurals, and well written, flowing stories with good character development, do check out this series.  

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

*****

My Friends - Fredrik Backman

My Friends - Fredrik Backman

Pub. Date: May 20, 2025

She and he read

What can I say about a Fredrik Backman novel that hasn’t already been said? I have loved every one of his that I have read. 

I am not going to attempt to give a short synopsis of this book. You can read on online blurb about it in many places.

This beautifully written book is amusing, poignant, heartbreaking, heartwarming. It is about friendship, the joy and pain of friendships and growing up, found family, the nature of art, art as salvation. Backman’s character development is at his best here. There are so many memorable observations and compelling lines….if you are an underliner, you will be kept very busy noting outstanding parts. 

Take your time reading and savoring this story and all it says about life. BTW, healso read this and said it was the best book he had ever  read. 

My DRC was provided by #NetGalley and @AtriaBooks in exchange for an honest review.

******

Class Clown - Dave Barry

 Class Clown - Dave Barry

Pub. Date: May 13, 2025

She Read

This is self proclaimed "wiseass" Dave Barry’s memoir. For those not fortunate to be familiar with some of his work, this Pulitzer Prize winner is most known for his syndicated newspaper humor columns through the years. Growing up in the 50s and 60s, he recounts memories of those times, his family, his early career, his foray into following politics as a journalist, being involved in the film industry, a member of a rock band, and other experiences. And, yes, he was voted “class clown” in high school.

Reading this, I was laughing out loud by page 2. It is entertaining, witty, intelligent, irreverent, poignant as he shares his autobiography sprinkled with snippets from his columns. Boomers will particularly enjoy his reminiscences through the years and his take on the aging process. 

 In these dark days, we all need something light and humorous to raise our spirits. I particularly liked his reassuring message to readers at the end of the book. It is worth reading for that alone….

*****

Thanks to #NetGalley and @SimonBooks for the DRC

Husband Missing - Lisa Regan

 Husband Missing - Lisa Regan

Pub. Date: March 19, 2025

She read

Josie Quinn has a significant early history which, in this case, comes back to haunt her as her beloved husband, Noah has been abducted.Josie returns home from the scene of a murder to find her house in disarray, blood splatter, and Noah missing. All hands are on deck as the frantic search for him is underway. 

This is another page turner from Lisa Regan.Well written, there is suspense, twists, horror, poignancy. There are some brutal truths here about abuse and its generational effects. In this book, readers learn more details about Josie’s background and it delves a bit more into her psyche as she tries to cope with the devastation of Noah’s disappearance, what may become of him, and the fact that she is not supposed to be involved in investigating this case. 

I enjoyed seeing the bond grow closer between Josie and her birth family as their protective instincts are displayed.I do like how throughout the series, Regan’s characters show growth and change with time and experience. I like Josie; she is a strong, capable, intelligent, though vulnerable young woman. A new character, Turner, was introduced a few books back who has been aptly nicknamed Douchebag by her. I was glad to see that he is finally starting to show some sparks of humanity!

Counting the hours since Noah’s abduction is a good technique that added to the suspense of the story. I also picked up on the hint Regan dropped that foreshadowed the cliff hanger ending….see if you do too. I do hope we find out soon the connection between Turner and Trinity, Josie’s sister, as she certainly seems to be a “Turner Whisperer.

This is the twenty second in the series.  Although I think I have read all of them, this would work as a standalone as the author does an excellent job of filling in Josie’s background.However, I think it might be helpful to have some familiarity with the characters by having read some of the previous installments.

If you like well written police procedurals/thrillers, and are not familiar with this series, I highly recommend it. I can’t wait for #23.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

*****

The Human Scale - Lawrence Wright

 The Human Scale - Lawrence Wright

Pub. Date: March 11, 2025

He and she readAfter recovering from injuries received from a bomb and still dealing with memory issues, FBI agent Tony Malik decides to explore his paternal Palestinian roots by attending a family wedding in Gaza. While there, the chief of police is beheaded and Tony becomes a prime suspect. Once cleared, he teams up with an Israeli police inspector to investigate the murder.

Wow! What an excellent book, well written by Pulitzer Prize winning author, Lawrence Wright. More than just a mystery/thriller, Wright delves into the historical roots of both the Arabs and Israelis and their conflict, with the archival and mythical flowing seamlessly back and forth with the contemporary plot. The story follows characters on both sides, exploring their backgrounds and experiences, culminating in the October 6, 2023 attack in Israel.

Engrossing and informative, I learned much of the historical perspective of both the Arabs and the Israelis. Unfortunately, it left me with the feeling that there will never be justice, peace, or the resolution of this conflict. Despite many peace seeking people on both sides, the hatred and the atrocities that have been inflicted do not seem that they can be overcom

This is a very worthwhile read. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @AAKnopf for the DRC.

Note: He also thought it a five * read

*****

Message Deleted - K.L. Slater

 Message Deleted - K.L. Slater

Pub. Date: March 3, 3035

She read

Saffy receives three text messages from her best friend, Leona, indicating she may be in danger, but then the messages are deleted. Fearing for her friend, she rushes to her home to find all is reportedly well, with Leona denying she sent any texts. Shorty thereafter, Leona, her husband and daughter are missing, blood left behind in their home and Saffy is the main suspect. Her life spirals out of control as she tries to investigate on her own.

Written from different POVs, this psychological thriller/crime mystery, is another page turner from author K.L. Slater, albeit a bit of a slow burn; there were times when I said to myself, “get on with it.” The different timelines allow the story to gradually reveal the history and significant events in the lives of the main characters that culminates in the crime and ultimate solution of the mystery. I have to say I did find the behavior of the police quite obnoxious! 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

****

I Will Blossom Anyway - Disha Bose

 I Will Blossom Anyway - Disha Bose

Pub. Date: May 6, 2025

He and she read

Calcutta born Durga leaves her family for a job in Ireland where she meets Joy, her new BFF and Joy's brother, Jacob, with whom she falls in love. Enjoying the freedom of an independent life, she also recognizes her role in her family and how her new life would be viewed by them. Because she fears her family will not accept Jacob, she hesitates telling her family about him. When she doesn’t invite him to her sister’s wedding in India, they break up. The  nostalgia of returning home for the wedding entices her back to that culture, but is it enough to give up her new life in Ireland?

A fast contemporary read with flowing prose, this coming of age novel touches on so many themes. There is the struggle between finding your own way and obligations to your family, living a cross culture life, taking control of your life, and the misunderstandings that can occur when we prejudge our family’s dynamics. I enjoyed learning more about the Indian culture, particularly the traditions surrounding a wedding and Hindu myths…and all the references to food. I liked the woman Durga became. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @RandomHouse for the DRC.

****

Parents Weekend - Alex Finlay

 Parents Weekend - Alex Finlay

Pub. Date: May 6, 2025

She read

It is Parents’ Weekend at an expensive northern California college. Everyone is on edge because a student has been reported missing. Then five other students who knew the first one also go missing. As the reader learns about the parents of the five students, campus police and FBI Agent Sarah Keller, recently redeployed to this area, search frantically for them.

I have read and enjoyed a few of Alex Finlay’s books and this adds to his body of work.The story is told from multiple points of view, including that of the families of the missing students; they all have secrets they are hiding.It is another example of dysfunctional wealthy people behaving badly. While many of the players were dislikable in their own ways, I do like the FBI agent, Sarah Keller, who has appeared in other Finlay novels, and her family.  She is a great character. 

Along with the mystery and suspense, there are contemporary themes of the danger of social media and predatory behaviors. It makes for a fast paced, entertaining read. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Stmartinspress @minotaur_books for the DRC.

****

Death on Wolf Fell - Nick Oldham

 Death on Wolf Fell - Nick Oldham

Pub. Date: May 6, 2025

She read

Sergeant Jessica Raker has relocated her family from London to rural Lancashire. There is an organized crime ring responsible for drugs and thefts in the area. She is determined to take them down, especially the female head, an enemy of hers from school days. Wolf Fell Hall, a stately home, seems to be the center of their activity and after an incident there, the thrilling chase is on, leaving victims in the wake. 

A fan of British police procedurals, I wanted to try a new to me author. This is the second in a series by Nick Oldham. While I did not read the first one, this worked well as a stand alone.

This is a fast paced thriller with a good story line, action, and well developed characters. All this makes for an entertaining read.  I liked Jessica, an all too human but dedicated individual struggling with some personal issues while trying to make a way for herself in her new position. I look forward to the next installment in this series. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #SevernHouseImprint for the DRC.

****

Murder by Cheesecake - Rachel Ekstrom Courage

 Murder by Cheesecake - Rachel Ekstrom Courage

Pub. Date: April 15, 2025

She read

Based on the characters from the TV show, The Golden Girls, this is a new cozy mystery series. Rose’s niece and fiancé are in Miami to get married. Rose is trying to give them a traditional  St. Olaf wedding while the groom to be’s parents who own a swanky hotel have other ideas. When a man Dorothy meets on a date through a VHS dating service shows up dead in the freezer of the hotel, suspicion falls on her. As Rose is trying to arrange all the quirky details of a St. Olaf wedding, she balances that with working with her three friends to clear Dorothy’s name.

After reading quite a few dark mystery/thrillers in a row, I was up for something lighter, so chose this book. It was a fine palate cleanser as the Golden Girls romp through Miami. If you are a fan of the show, you will enjoy revisiting these entertaining characters in a new situation. It had their distinctive wit and charm. I do think some of the story, especially the St. Olaf references and preparation for the wedding went on a bit too long. Hard to believe that after 40 years, the spirit of these four women can still bring a smile to our lives. After reading this, you may well find yourself wanting some cheesecake, unless you are from St. Olaf in which case you may crave herring.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #HyperionAveBooks for the DRC.

***

I See You've Called in Dead - John Kenney

 I See You've Called in Dead - John Kenney

Pub. Date: April 1, 2025

She read

Touted as “The Office meets Six Feet Under”, this tells the story of Bud Stanley, a divorced, middle aged, lonely, on the down slide writer of obituaries who, one drunken night, writes and files his own obituary, greatly exaggerating his accomplishments. His newspaper wants to fire him but is prevented from doing so because the company’s computer has him listed as dead, and they can’t fire a dead man. Dismissed pending a hearing, Bud learns some life lessons from both the living and the dead. 

I had to think a bit about how I felt about this read and then realized how much I really liked it. Well written by a Thurber prize winning author,  there are witty lines, laugh out loud moments, and profound observations. It is also poignant and at times sad, but, ultimately, an affirmation of life. I also loved Kenney’s vignettes of life in New York City.  

Thanks to #NetGalley and @ZibbyPublishing for the DRC.

*****

Death at Horsey Mere - Ross Greenwood

 Death at Horsey Mere - Ross Greenwood

Pub. Date: March 1, 2025

She read

This is the fourth in the #Norfolkmurders series. Although I did read the prior one in the sequence, this can be read as a stand alone.The author kindly provides a directory of the cast of police characters at the beginning of the novel.

 Ashley Knight has been promoted from DI to DS! She and her team become involved in an international crime syndicate when two young local women are missing. Soon they learn of other missing persons and dead bodies start showing up. 

For those with trigger warnings: the storyline includes human trafficking, abduction of young women, and some gruesome attacks. A solid police procedural, I like this investigative team with their close personal relationships and sarcastic humor. The criminals in this installment are quite malevolent, while the writing pulls you in in this engrossing, can’t put down read. There are twists and turns…one you probably won’t see coming! Atmospheric, the descriptions of the Norfolk surroundings are vivid and evocative.  

If you enjoy police procedurals featuring capable female detectives, I encourage you to check out this book. This author/series has been added to my “must read” list. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for the DRC.

****

Nobody's Fool - Harlan Coben

 Nobody's Fool - Harlan Coben

Pub. Date: March 25, 2025

She read

When disgraced former police officer turned independent detective Sami Kierce  was a college student traveling in Spain, he woke up one morning next to a dead woman and found himself holding a bloody knife. He fled the scene, but the incident changed the course of his life. Now, twenty five years later, he thinks he sees the woman he thought murdered. As he tries to find the woman, long held secrets unravel and danger is near.

This is the second in the Detective Sami Kierce series.  I read the first one, Fool Me Once, but it was in 2016 and since I have read well over 1000 books since, I honestly don’t remember it so basically this was a standalone for me and it worked as one. 

Multiple plot lines, an intriguing, twisty story, and colorful supporting characters make this another winner by Coben. It also raises some interesting social and familial issues. It is a fast paced, engrossing, hard to put down read.

Since Fool Me Once  was made into a Netflix series, I am looking forward to this one also being adapted.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #GrandCentralPublishing for the DRC.

*****

Breaking the Dark - Lisa Jewell

 Breaking the Dark  - Lisa Jewell

Pub. Date: March 25, 2025

She read

Jessica Jones has retired as a super hero and lives in Hell’s Kitchen, New York as a private investigator. When Amber Randall seeks out her services because her teenage twins returned from a trip to visit their father in the UK as changed people. They seem to have been replaced by “perfect” specimens. Jessica’s investigation takes her to a small village in England where she too seems to fall under some type of spell. Upon her return to New York, it is up to Jessica and occasional lover Luke Cage to unravel the mystery and put a stop to a nefarious plan.

My bad….I guess I responded to Lisa Jewell as the author (I have read many of her thrillers) and didn’t read close enough that this is a Marvel novel, the first in what is to become a series. Superheroes, sci fi and fantasy are not my typical genre choices. But, I approached the book with an open mind, suspended belief and thoroughly enjoyed the story/mystery. While it didn’t sell me on this genre, I did find myself totally engrossed in the plot.

If you enjoy Lisa Jewell’s writing, but are not a fan of fantasy/Marvel, do give this read a chance. You may like it as much as I did.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #HyperionAveBooks for the DRC.

****

My Name is Emilia Del Valle - Isabel Allende

 My Name is Emilia Del Valle - Isabel Allende

Pub. Date: May 6, 2025

She read

In the 1800s, a young Irish woman about to become a nun has a relationship with a Chilean aristocrat and becomes pregnant, giving birth to a daughter she names Emilia Del Valle, after the father who abandons her. All her life, Emilia is told that, despite having a loving step father, she must connect with her birth father and collect her due. An independent spirit, Emilia wants to become a writer and begins writing dime novels under a male pseudonym. Her dream is to become a journalist and she does so for a San Francisco newspaper, but is told she must continue to use the pseudonym. She travels to Chile during their civil war as a correspondent and finally is allowed to use her real name. There, she discovers the barbarity of war, the love of her life, her birthright family, and searches for her soul. 

I really enjoy Allende’s writing and this book adds to her considerable body of literature. She is a skillfull story teller who writes beautiful prose. Allende is known for her magical realism, so the book is fantastical at times, but a truly compelling read. There is so much here….adventure, the brutality of war, especially a civil war, romance, family bonds, cultural heritage, historical accounting, as well as a strong and endearing female character. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @RandomHouse for the DRC.

*****

A Darker Reality - Anne Perry

 A Darker Reality - Anne Perry

She read

Set in the 1930s, young MI6 agent Elena Standish is visiting Washington DC with her parents for her wealthy grandparents anniversary. She barely knows them, having met them only when she was a child.Her British father’s role as ambassador around the world prevented many visits. During the anniversary party, which President Roosevelt and Elenor attended, a young woman, Lila, is killed The evidence points to her grandfather and he is arrested. When Elena discovers the dead woman was a British spy, she works with another agent to uncover the truth. Could her grandfather’s right wing ideas and participation in the Free America movement have played a role in his arrest and just what information was Lila privy to? After all, her husband is a scientist working on splitting the atom and perhaps developing a powerful weapon of war. 

More than a mystery, this is an important book because of the social and political issues raised. Perry captures well the conflicting political views prior to the US entry into World War II.

Although published in 2021, this book may be more pertinent now given what is happening worldwide. The Free America organization in the novel seems to parallel “America First”, a slogan often used to promote racist, xenophobic and isolationist ideas. Pointing out the wide difference in political views, a character notes that “this is healthy, but not when it turns violent.” There are some wonderful quotes in the text of this novel; one that has stayed with me is “patriotism is pretty universal and has been the justification for some of the worst acts on earth.”

There is some beautiful prose in this novel, especially when describing the landscape. Yes, there is some repetition, but I was able to easily overlook it for the message that this book conveyed.

This is the third in the series. Although I have read quite a few of Anne Perry’s many novels, I did not read the first two Elena Standish stories. This did work well as a standalone.There are two subsequent entries in the series; Anne Perry passed away in 2023.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @RandomHouse for the DRC.

*****

Hidden in Smoke - Lee Goldberg

 Hidden in Smoke - Lee Goldberg

Pub. Date: April 22, 2025

She read

Veteran arson investigator Walker and his fairly new partner, former US Marshall Sharpe are back in action chasing down arsonists. Both Walker and Sharpe, nicknamed Shar Pei because of his uncanny resemblance to one, are unique characters, a bit unconventional, but full of wit and intelligence. Best of all in this book, they have some opportunities to team up with Eve Ronin, a detective from one of Goldberg’s other popular series of which I am a fan.

With a few storylines, this is a fast paced thrill ride. I really enjoy the humorous wise cracks throughout the book and the relationship between the partners .A bit over the top at times, it is an entertaining read. An added bonus is insight into the investigative process involved in arson.

 This series is a unique take on crime fiction/mystery/thriller. The third installment,  I did read and enjoy the first two. Although characters from a previous story appear, this would work as a standalone.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #ThomasandMercer for the DRC.

****