A Novel Crime - Deborah Levison

 A Novel Crime - Deborah Levison

Pub. Date: March 31, 2026

She read

Marcy has always wanted to be a successful author, but she put that dream on hold to support her husband, from whom she is now divorced. Her writing, unfortunately, isn’t particularly good. When she accidentally observes famous author Francesca Barber in a compromising position, she sees a chance to blackmail her into helping her hone her novel. Soon, Marcy’s plan spirals out of control.

This satirical novel is a humorous, chaotic, absurdist story that is both cringeworthy and entertaining. It is a fun escapist read for those who relish dark comedy. With a morally satisfying ending, it is also quite thought-provoking.  How far would one go to achieve their dream?

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

****

Where the Truth Lies - Katherine Greene

 Where the Truth Lies - Katherine Greene

Pub. Date: March 24, 2026

She read

Trigger warnings: As mentioned in the Author’s introductory note, this book includes toxic masculinity, misogyny, and gender-based violence. It also provides resources for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.

Rhett and Lucinda appear to have a perfect marriage, and appearances are important. The marriage almost didn’t take place when 15 years ago, an attractive young stranger named Jenn Moore appeared and captured Rhett’s attention. Tragically, Jenn ended up dead, and the young couple found themselves under suspicion. Lucinda’s influential father intervened and handled the situation, but now, a new witness has come forward with evidence that leads to Rhett’s arrest. The question remains: what is the real truth surrounding Jenn’s death?

This suspenseful domestic thriller delves into dysfunctional relationships and features unexpected twists. The use of multiple timelines and point-of-views keeps the story moving at a brisk pace. However, it’s worth noting that most of the characters, except perhaps for one, are quite unlikeable. The ending raises thought-provoking questions about justice and whether it was well or poorly served. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @CrookedLaneBooks for the DRC.

****

Silenced Sisters - Helen Phifer

 Silenced Sisters - Helen Phifer

Pub. Date: Jan. 29, 2026

She read

When a young woman is stabbed to death in a deserted hotel, Detective Morgan Brookes is shocked to find that she is the sister of another woman who met the same gruesome end. However, the person who had confessed to that murder is dead. Could the true killer still be at large? Morgan and her team embark on a perilous quest to find the missing third sister and unravel the sinister plot behind this family’s tragic fate.

I have eagerly awaited this, the seventeenth installment in the series, ever since I read the sixteenth that ended in a bit of a cliffhanger. Nevertheless, feel free to read this as a standalone as the author provides ample background information to set the stage for the unfolding mystery.

This is yet another engrossing, fast-paced read perfect for those who enjoy British police procedurals, mysteries, and thrillers. This well-plotted, suspenseful story will keep readers guessing.  Phifer’s Morgan Brookes series is on my must-read list. Morgan is a formidable, empathetic female protagonist. I enjoy her character and the convivial, teasing relationships within the investigative team.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

*****

Central Park - Cristina Ergunay

 Central Park - Cristina Ergunay

Pub. Date: April 14, 2026

She read

Subtitled Adventures through the Seasons, this beautifully illustrated book takes readers on a journey through various sites and activities in Central Park, New York City. I loved that one side of the book contained a simple child friendly rhyme introducing something in the park and the other side gave more detailed information about it.

This book is perfect for children and parents to enjoy together. The map at the end provides a comprehensive overview of the park, while a note about its architect and additional resources for further information are also included.

Despite my frequent visits to Central Park, I discovered some new and interesting facts about it from this book. It is highly recommended for families living in NYC, those who have visited or plan to visit the park, or anyone interested in learning more about this iconic landmark.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @FamiliusBooks for the DRC.

*****

She Thought She Was Safe - Terri Parlato

 She Thought She Was Safe  - Terri  Parlato

Pub. Date: feb.  24, 2026

She read

Reunited with her father, a successful author whom she never knew, and invited to stay at his secluded lakeside home, Emma’s visit turns into a nightmare as someone is murdered, long held mysteries unfold, and she finds her life in danger.

With an atmospheric setting, the tension and suspense build as the story progresses. There are unexpected twists and turns that will have readers holding their breath until the final resolution.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @KensingtonBooks for the DRC.

****

More Than Enough - Anna Quindlen

 More Than Enough - Anna Quidlen

Pub.  Date: Feb. 24, 2026

She read

Polly, in her second marriage, is struggling with infertility issues. Her relationship with her mother is strained, and her father resides in a memory care facility. Despite these challenges, she finds solace in her supportive husband and in-laws, her brother, and her close-knit book club friends who have been meeting for years without ever having read any of the selected books. When they give her a DNA kit as a joke, the results are unexpected and send her on a search to find out who she really is. 

Anna Quindlen’s writing is a delight, showcasing her skill as an author who effortlessly captivates readers. This contemporary novel weaves a tapestry of sadness, humor, poignancy, and uplifting moments. Just like life with its various interwoven storylines, there is something here to which every reader can relate. 

Spoiler alert: My only hesitation is that after some bumps in the road, Polly does seem to lived a charmed life. If only life were like that! But maybe, in times such as these, we need stories that offer a sense of hope and comfort.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouseBooks for the DRC.

****

This is Not About Us - Allegra Goodman

 This is Not About Us - Allegra Goodman

Pub. Date feb. 10, 2026

She read

This multigenerational novel weaves together a tapestry of interconnected stories about a Jewish-American family, capturing their love and dysfunction. Beautifully written, it delves into feuds, conflicts, spousal, parental, and sibling relationships, highlighting the importance of maintaining family connections. The narrative spans two years in the mid-2000s, offering a humorous and poignant glimpse into the family’s dynamics and their enduring legacy. A helpful family tree is provided at the beginning of the book, providing readers with a visual guide to the family’s lineage.

Thanks to @Netgalley and @RandomHouseBooks for the DRC.

****

The Floating Venice Bookshop - Annabel French

 The Floating Venice Bookshop - Annabel French

Pub. Date: Feb. 12, 2026

She  read

Beth is devastated when her job at a museum in Venice is eliminated due to budget restraints. Determined not to return to England, she impulsively buys a disorganized, dark barge that has been transformed into a bookstore. As she renovates the place, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, found family and romance.

This is the second in the “floating” romance series and it will continue to captivate readers with its sweet and enchanting narrative.The book is filled with colorful characters and charming settings, and Venice itself becomes a character in its own right, with vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the beauty and magic of the city.

Thanks to #NetGalley and @AvonBooksUK for the DRC.

****

The Replacement - Matt Brolly

 The Replacement - Matt Brolly

Pub. Date: Feb. 10, 2026

She read

This is the second installment in the DS Liam Kelshaw series. While I did read the first book, I believe this could be enjoyed as a standalone novel, although there are numerous references to the previous story. Liam is a divorced former Marine suffering from PTSD stemming from a near-drowning incident during his service.

A maimed body encased in a hessian bag washes up on the Cornish Coast and Matt and his team are on a race to discover the culprit and stop any more killings. Could it be, as someone suggests, related to an ancient legend of giving sacrifice to Bucca Dhu, a water spirit with the power to generate storms? 

Brolly weaves a captivating blend of myth and psychopathy in this gritty, fast-paced, and suspenseful read. Set during the unforgiving winter in Cornwall, the atmosphere is palpable. His vivid descriptions of the snow and cold evoke a strong desire for a blanket! Liam is an interesting character, and I particularly like the working dynamic between him and his boss, Maya. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @amazonpublishing #thomasandmercer for the DRC. 

****

The Doctor - Daniel Hurst

 The Doctor - Daniel Hurst

Pub. Date: January 23, 2026

She read

I admit it, I couldn’t resist returning for one more installment of the lives of Drew and Fern Devlin, the doctor and his wife.  This is the fifth in the series but is actually a prequel that delves into the backstory of how Fern became The Doctor’s Wife.

As is typical in a Hurst novel, there are diabolical twists and pathological narcissism. As with the prior stories, it’s an engrossing, fast paced read that I couldn’t put down. I like the continued author’s style of alternating chapter perspectives from the two main characters, allowing a glimpse into their inner thoughts and motivations. 

You may dislike some (or all!) of the characters and think some things a bit over the top,  but you will enjoy this psychological thriller.  It is an entertaining, escapist read; what I like to call a “popcorn thriller.”

Thanks to @Netgalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

****

Wolf Hour - Jo Nesbo

 Wolf Hour - Jo Nesbo

Pub. Date: Feb. 3, 2025

She read

Jo Nesbø, noted Norwegian author and master of Nordic noir, takes readers on a journey in his latest book. The setting shifts from Norway to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where in 2016 a gun dealer is assassinated. After a second shooting, veteran detective Bob Oz, dealing with anger issues stemming from the death of his daughter and breakdown of his marriage, is relentless in his pursuit of the perpetrator. In 2022, a Norwegian journalist with connections to one of the key players visits that city to research the case for a book he is writing.

The plot unfolds with intrigue, employing multiple perspectives and spanning the two timelines. The colorful characters are well-developed with exploration into themes of grief, trauma, and motivations. The narrative also offers a glimpse into the evolution of the city of Minneapolis. As the story builds, the mystery deepens, making it a fast, engrossing read and a welcome addition to Nesbø’s body of work. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @aaknopf for the DRC.

****