Broken Bones - John Carson

 Broken Bones - John Carson

Pub. Date: Nov. 11, 2025

She read

DCI Liam Brodie is still wrapping up a serial killer case he solved three years ago when he is assigned temporarily to Major Investigations in Fife. Their DCI is missing and a child’s bones have been discovered beneath the floorboards of a home there. It turns out that his girlfriend, psychologist Ruth Calder, was a foster child in that home and remembers the treatment she received there as well as a child who went missing. 

This is the first in what is to become a series featuring DCI Liam Brodie. It is a fast-paced read with different storylines and intriguing plot lines. The twists and turns as the cases progress are interspersed with humor. 

I did feel that the backstories and introductions to the many characters could have been more developed. At times, I felt as though I had entered the story in the middle rather than at the beginning. Despite this, I enjoyed the characters, particularly Brodie, and look forward to the next installment. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @TheBoldBookClub for the DRC.

***

My Husband Next Door - K.L. Slater

 My Husband Next Door - K.L. Slater

Pub. Date: Oct. 28

She read

A college student has gone missing, suspected of having been abducted, which puts the community on edge. Married couple Sylvie and Matt have a unique living situation; they reside in separate homes just two doors apart. It works for them. Their arrangement is disrupted when retired nurse Brenda moves in across the street and insinuates herself into their lives. Initially, Brenda appears to be a blessing when Sylvie’s daughter gives birth and faces medical complications. Soon, it is apparent that she has taken over their lives, causing their world to unravel.

This psychological/domestic thriller/mystery is another page-turner from author K.L. Slater. Fast-paced, with a multi-layered storyline, there are hidden secrets here, along with some clues buried within the narrative, making it a gripping read. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

****

The Killer Question - Janice Hallett

 The Killer Question - Janice Hallett

Pub. Date: Sept. 23, 2025

She read

Sue and Mal Eastwood were proprietors of a small rural pub which hosted a weekly trivia game. All was progressing well until the body of someone who had been kicked out of the pub was discovered in a nearby body of water. Around the same time, a mysterious quiz team began attending their contests, consistently able to answer all the questions, no matter how difficult Mal made them. They must have been cheating, but how? 

Sue and Mal have a secret; they are former police officers who left the force after being involved in a covert operation. In one revelatory evening, secrets are exposed and all the questions answered. 

The pub has now been deserted for five years when Dominic, their nephew, is sure there is a marketable story there and wants to make a documentary about them. 

With multiple timelines and told in an epistolary manner, including texts, emails, witness statements, and transcripts, this cleverly plotted tale is a bit slow in building momentum, but the twists and turns come fast at the end. The amusing exchanges among the diverse characters and the building tension create a compelling atmosphere that keeps the reader engaged and makes this a unique and entertaining read.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Atriabooks for the DRC. 

****

Brain Teasers for Memory Fitness - Julie Demyanovich

 Brain Teasers for Memory Fitness ; 90 day challenge to Strengthen Recall and Improve Cognitive Skills  -  Julie Demyanovich

Pub.  Date: Nov. 18, 2025

We exercise our bodies every day, shouldn’t we exercise our brains as well?

Here are 90 days’ worth of puzzles and games to help enhance brain function and memory.  They involve such skills as long- and short-term memory, visual recall, critical thinking, and problem-solving. They offer a blend of fun and challenge and include such activities as trivia, crosswords, Sudoku, and word games. 

I had an ebook Advanced Readers Copy, which was not the best way to experience these challenges.  In fact, it was frustrating.  But it whetted my appetite for more, and I intend to purchase the physical paperback for a more satisfying experience.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @ZeitgeistPublishing for the DRC.

*****

The Book Club Killer - Ross Greenwood

The Book Club Killer - Ross Greenwood

Pub. Date: Nov. 5, 2025

She read

Christmas is approaching. DI Barton is contemplating retirement when a case lands on his desk. After a meeting of a local book club, one of the members dies under suspicious circumstances. As Barton investigates, he uncovers hidden secrets among the members, making them all potential suspects. Time is of the essence before another death occurs. 

This is the eighth of the DI Barton books.  It is the second I have read, but it works well as a stand-alone.

A solid police procedural, I enjoy the protagonists in this series with their personal relationships and sarcastic humor. Barton is a leader with empathy and a sense of fairness. Greenwood’s writing draws you into this engrossing and fast-paced read. The story is told from different POVs, including that of the book club killer, which keeps readers guessing about the perpetrator’s identity.   

Thanks to @Netgalley and @TheBoldBookCLub for the DRC.

****

 

Fairy Mermaids - Shannon and Ryan Mills

 Fairy Mermaids Book Series - Shannon and Ryan Mills

She read

A series for young readers

Ocean Treasures Books 1-3

The Mullet Run

The Loggerhead Rescue

The Goliath Grouper

These are the first three books in a series about Coral, a fairy mermaid, and her friend Sandy as they explore the wonders that are found in our oceans. 

Fairies and mermaids have always been popular with children (and some adults too!), and these enchanting stories are beautifully illustrated with stunning colors. Each book is both entertaining and educational.  Children learn such things as what a reef is, how sea glass is made, and are introduced to many different sea creatures. At the end of each story, “fairy mermaid facts” are provided that provide further information about the sea and its inhabitants. 

Beyond the entertainment value, these books also impart valuable life lessons such as  what courage is, howw if we give everyone a chance, we just might find a good friend.

As someone who lives at the beach, I can attest to the authenticity of the information about the creatures (well, except for the fairy mermaids!).  I particularly liked the story about sea turtles laying eggs, and even though I have volunteered with them for many years, I learned something new about them in The Loggerhead Rescue!

These books would make a great gift for children to learn about and appreciate the wonders of the ocean. They are not only educational but also visually appealing, offering a chance to admire the beautiful illustrations.

Thanks to @fairy.mermaids for the DRC.

******

Introducing Mrs. Collins - Rachel Parris

 Introducing Mrs. Collins - Rachel Parris

Pub. Date: Nov. 4, 2025

She read

Introducing Mrs. Collins - Rachel Parris

Pub.  Date: Nov. 4, 2025

After his marriage proposal is rejected by Elizabeth Bennet, Mr. Collins sets his sights on Charlotte Lucas. As she does not appear to have any other prospects, she accepts and looks forward to an uninspiring marital life. She lives a quiet and dutiful existence as the clergyman’s wife until a visitor arrives at Lady Catherine De Bourgh’s Rosings Park, introducing her to a new world.

For those familiar with Pride and Prejudice, this recounts the life of Charlotte Lucas after her marriage. It is an endearing story with mostly endearing characters. Perhaps a bit spicier than the writing in Jane Austen’s time, the tale is told with biting humor and witty social observations, especially concerning the plight of women. Flashbacks provide insight into the backstories of the main characters, helping to understand their journey. I must admit that my reactions to Mr. Collins and Lady Catherine were somewhat softened as their lives, thoughts, and feelings were revealed.

If only for a little while, this book allows readers to travel back to that world of Regency England, Jane Austen, and Pride and Prejudice. However, one does not have to be familiar with the original book to enjoy this read.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @LittleBrown for the DRC

*****

The Tortoise's Tale - Kendra Coulter

 The Tortoise's Tale - Kendra Coulter

Pub. Date: Nov. 4, 2025

She read

A giant tortoise is transported from her native home to an estate in California. From this locale, she has a century to observe life, both human and animal. She forms bonds with those who are kind to her and learns to avoid those not so kind.Throughout her century, she witnesses the good and bad in humanity, as well as the changes in society over time. She is also no stranger to the damage that can be inflicted on the environment. Despite the passage of time and the people and fellow animals who come and go from her life, she remains steadfastly observant and irrepressible.

Beautifully and sensitively written, this is a charming tale that evokes a range of emotions, as well as nostalgia and hope. It is thoughtful, even profound in its simplicity. There are important messages here, but it is never preachy, just a heartfelt story that leaves a lasting impression.

This is just the kind of book I would like to find under my tree at Christmas. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @SimonBooks for the DRC.

*****

The Last Death of the Year - Sophie Hannah

 The Last Death of the Year - Sophie Hannah

Pub. Date: Oct. 28, 2025

She read

This is the sixth of Sophie Hannah’s Hercule Poirot novels. It is the first of these that I have read. It has been quite a while since I read Agatha Christie, but I think Hannah successfully captures the unique quirks and brilliance of the Belgian detective. 

It is New Year’s Eve 1932, and Poirot and Inspector Edward Catchpool (an invention of the author; not a Christie sidekick) have been invited to the House of Perpetual Welcome on a Greek island. The House is inhabited by a quasi-religious group of “very good friends” whose major tenet is forgiveness. There is an ulterior motive behind the invitation, and when one of the group is murdered, it is up to Poirot to find the culprit. 

The plot includes deceptions, red herrings, a group of sequestered colorful characters, and craftily hidden hints. This is an enjoyable, cozy mystery paying homage to the early days of mystery storytelling and it kept me fully engaged, especially when the characters recounted their histories

Thanks to @NetGalley and @WilliamMorrowBooks for the DRC.

****

Coyote Hills - Jonathan Kellerman and Jesse Kellerman

Coyote Hills - Jonathan Kellerman and Jess Kellerman

Pub. Date: Oct. 28, 2025

She read

 Clay Edison is a former sheriff’s deputy/coroner turned private detective. A colleague of his, Regina Klein, enlists his assistance in solving the mystery of a dead body washed up in San Francisco Bay. Although the victim was laced with drugs and had a head injury, the police have deemed it an accident, something his wealthy parents refuse to believe. They hire Clay to investigate. 

This is the sixth in the father-and-son author team’s Clay Edison series.  I have read all of them and think this is the strongest. It can be read as a standalone.

A well-crafted, steady investigative procedural, this features the authors’ signature vivid and detailed descriptions, creating a strong sense of place. It is a fast-paced, compelling read with a likable protagonist. 

Fellow PI Regina Klein was introduced in the last installment, and I love this character.  She’s a delightful mix of humor, ability, and a great addition to the series  I also like the incorporation of technology and AI into the investigation, adding a modern twist to a classic detective story.

As with all of the Kellermans’ books, this read leaves me eagerly anticipating the next in the series. 

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

*****

Girl Dinner - Olivie Blake

Girl Dinner - Olivie Blake

Pub. Date: Oct. 21, 2025

She read

 After Sloane Hartley abandoned her tenure-track job to relocate with her husband for his university position and had a baby, she is eager to return to academia. However, the only job available to her at her husband’s university is a non-track position that comes with a dilapidated basement office and the pressure to publish. She is insecure about so much: leaving her child, her clothes, her body, her life.

Nina Klaus is pledging THE sorority on campus, where the sisters and alumnae all appear to be high-achieving, attractive, and almost perfect specimens. When Sloane is asked to be the sorority’s campus advisor and takes on new friends from its alumnae, both she and Nina learn the sinister secret of the women’s success.

This dark yet entertaining satire delves into the complexities of women’s lives. I don’t think I am spoiling anything by warning that there is cannibalism as part of the story and also some spicy scenes.

Told in alternating POVs, Blake takes on some tough questions. What is the plight of women in the world today? What has feminism done for and to women and what have they lost in recent years? Why do difficult choices, roles, and situations uniquely face women? How can women achieve power? What about the disconnect between the rich and others in society?

A little out of my usual genre, I was attracted to this book by comments by others on Bookstagram. The story won’t be for everyone, but I enjoyed it. I don’t know that any of those questions/conflicts were resolved, but I appreciated the author giving voice to them. 

While I understand that the discussion of cannibalism is satirical, I found wisdom in the observation that women who vote for men who infringe upon their rights are essentially cannibalizing themselves. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and #TorPublishing for the DRC. 

****