How to Cheat Your Own Death - Kristen Perrin

 How to Cheat Your Own Death - Kristen Perrin

Pub. Date: April 28, 2028

She read

Annie Adams travels from Castle Knoll to London to visit her artist mother, Laura. Laura’s life takes a chilling turn when she discovers an animal’s heart on her doorstep, and soon after, a young woman she has been mentoring is found dead, with her heart removed. This gruesome murder echoes a similar case that occurred in 1968, as chronicled in Annie’s Aunt Frances’ diary. The story behind that murder is slowly revealed by reading the entries in the diary. Haunted by a long ago prophecy about her family’s demise, the tension escalates as Annie grapples with the possibility that her life and her mother’s are in danger.

This is book three of Castle Knoll Files; it is the first I have read. While the plot is intriguing and the structure well-crafted, I found it challenging to connect with any of the characters. Perhaps if I had read the previous installments, they would have resonated with me more.

One major twist in the book was predictable. The dual timeline works, one reason being the use of different fonts for the past and the present.  The ending leaves a promising opening for the next installment in the series.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @DuttonBooks for the DRC.

*** ½

Cognitive Behavioral Precision Therapy - Matthew McKay, Patrick Fanning, Erica Pool

 Cognitive Behavioral Precision Therapy - Matthew McKay, Patrick Fanning, Erica Pool

Pub. Date: April 1, 2026

She read

This comprehensive guide, subtitled “A Clinician’s Guide to Delivering Personalized Treatment for Mood Disorders,” employs cognitive behavioral techniques to provide clinicians with an in-depth understanding of the steps involved in creating individualized treatment plans for various emotional distresses. The book emphasizes the importance of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and includes specific examples to illustrate these techniques. Once published, the book will also feature a website with additional resources to support clinicians in developing treatment plans and techniques.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @NewHarbinger for the DRC.

*****

Stolen Family - Lisa Regan

 Stolen Family - Lisa Regan

Pub. Date: April 9, 2026

She read

During a festival and oppressive heat wave in Denton, PA, a mother and daughter are found murdered while glamping on the festival grounds. The only clue left at the scene are some rare flowers. Soon after, the estranged wife and daughter of one of Detective Josie Quinn’s colleagues are reported missing. Josie and her team race to solve the murders and find the missing women before they meet the same fate. 

This is the 24th book in the Josie Quinn series, and I have read all of them. However, if you are new to the series, it would work as a standalone as the author does an excellent job of filling in the backstories of the characters. 

This is one of my favorite series. As soon as a new installment becomes available, I stop everything I am doing and sit down to read it. The characters are well-developed and have evolved over time. I like Josie.  She is a capable, intelligent, though vulnerable young woman. Finally, readers get insight into the chameleon personality of the character Josie has given the moniker, “Douchbag”, Kyle Turner, the newest member of the team.  Does he have some humanity after all? 

This is cleverly plotted and thrilling as the tension builds and the mystery unravels. It is fast-paced, and there are twists in this character-driven story that combines mystery, thriller, family drama, found family, and police procedural in an entertaining and compelling narrative.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

*****

Bertie's Theory of Ice Cream - Alexander McCall Smith

 Bertie's Theory of Ice Cream - Alexander McCall Smith

Pub. Date: April 28, 2026

She read

This is the eighteenth installment in the episodic series that chronicles the lives of the residents of 44 Scotland Road, Edinburgh. Although I’ve read all of Alexander McCall Smith’s #1 Ladies Detective Agency books and some of the Isabel Dalhousie series, this is my first foray into the Scotland Rd. series. While it worked well as a standalone, I’m sorry I didn’t get acquainted with the characters sooner.

The book is amusing, witty, and quirky.  Even the most mundane discussions become entertaining, and the author demonstrates great insight into the human psyche.  There are many characters to remember, but by the end of the book, I had them sorted and was familiar with all of them

Thanks to @NetGalley and @aaknopf for the DRC.

****

Ghost Town - Tom Perrotta

 Ghost Town - Tom Perrotta

Pub. Date: April 28, 2026

She read

Successful author, the man once known as Jimmy Perrini, reflects on his pre-high school life in 1974 New Jersey. After his mother’s death, he feels lost and alienated from life, finding some solace in two relationships.  One is with a ne’er-do-well boy who spends his time smoking weed and driving around in his fast car, despite being underage. The other is with an older, bright girl from a dysfunctional family who introduces him to a Ouija board. 

Perrotta’s novel evokes a wide range of emotions.  It is nostalgic, wistful, poignant, melancholic, and hopeful, as well as a bit spiritual. Beautifully written, it resonates with anyone who has reminisced about their teenage self.

Having lived through the 70s in New Jersey, the author captures that era and environment realistically. I thoroughly enjoyed all the familiar locales mentioned by name in this narrative. This haunting story will linger in my mind for quite some time.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Scribner for the DRC.

****

False Witness - John Carson

 False Witness - John Carson

Pub. Date: April 5, 2026

She read

Seven years ago, there was a series of killings by someone given the moniker “The Embalmer,” followed by his disappearance. Now, he has resurfaced, and DCI Liam Brodie is called to Fife to assist in the investigation. As clues emerge, it appears that he may not have been as silent as initially suspected, potentially adopting a new modus operandi for his killings. As Liam delves deeper into the case, his life is in danger.

This is the second installment in the Liam Brodie series; I have read both. While it can be enjoyed as a standalone, readers familiar with the prior book will have some background and insights into Liam’s character and some of the other characters.

This is a fast paced mystery/thriller. On the dark side, there are twists and red herrings. Fans of mysteries, solid  police procedurals, Scottish locations, and thrillers will enjoy this read. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @TheBoldBookClub for the DRC.

****

Gut Goals - Beth Rosen

 Gut Goals - Beth Rosen

Pub. Date: March 31, 2026

She read

Beth Rosen, a registered dietician, has written this book to help people understand and manage irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Affecting people of all ages, it causes abdominal pain/discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.

Rosen provides a comprehensive explanation of the digestive system and offers a good overview of  the different types of IBS, distinguishing it from  IBD (Irritable bowel diseases such as Crohn’s or colitis). Symptoms are reviewed and there is emphasis on the FODMAP diet to manage IBS. Additionally, she discusses the influence of stress and the significance of sleep in managing IBS. Rosen provides a supportive and reassuring assessment of living with IBS and offers guidance on how to advocate for oneself when seeking diagnosis and treatment.

****

Mad Mabel - Sally Hepworth

 Mad Mabel - Sally Hepworth

Pub. Date: April 21, 2026

She read

Eighty-one-year-old Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick has resided on her small street for sixty years. A feisty curmudgeon to her neighbors, she has tried to keep her history hidden from them. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a neighbor dead in his house. The police suspect her, as she indeed has been known as “Mad Mabel”, the youngest person in Australia ever convicted of murder. However, as the story unfolds, the reader discovers her true history and character.

 Can a novel be a delightfully entertaining read with wit and sass and yet be heartbreaking? Read Mad Mabel to find out.

This clever and insightful story is told in two timelines: then and now. The characters are memorable, and there are twists and turns. I loved Mabel, a quirky, grumpy, endearing woman and Persephone, an annoying, yet captivating child. Despite some heart wrenching parts, this book was a joy to read. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @stmartinspress for the DRC.

*****

The Waitress - K.L. Slater

 The Waitress - K.L. Slater

Pub. Date: April 17, 2026

She read

Alicia finds herself entangled in a web of deceit, caught between two rich and influential men who want her to spy on each other. One is blackmailing and threatening her, while the other offers her a new glamorous life posing as his girlfriend as she seeks information to help him in his business endeavors. The driving force behind her treachery is the desire to protect and improve the lives of her son and sister, who is temporarily taking care of her nephew while Alicia navigates through her own personal struggles.

This is written in a style that is popular now, with fast-paced short chapters and multiple point-of-view narrations which some are calling “domestic noir.” The main characters aren’t  particularly likable, with some of them lacking any redeeming qualities. However, I did find one of the themes—the connection between wealth, power, and its abuse—to be quite relevant to our times.

I’ve read a few books by this author before and enjoyed them. This story has suspense and a twist, but I wouldn’t rate it as among her best. Nevertheless, I’ll definitely continue to seek out and read her other works.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Bookouture for the DRC.

***

Go Gentle - Maria Semple

 Go Gentle  - Maria Semple

Pub. Date: April 14, 2026

She  read

Written in parts, this is the story of Adora Hazzard, who started out as a comedy writer and became a Stoic philosopher working for a wealthy family. Along the way, she married, had a daughter who is now a teenager, divorced, and formed a “coven" with some friends living in  The Ansonia, New York City.  Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets a handsome, but mysterious man and becomes entangled in a possible international art fraud/terrorism plot.

The book delves into various themes, including art, philosophy, #metoo, mystery, intrigue, romance, relationships, and motherhood. While the plot may seem scattered to some, it ultimately does come together.

I particularly enjoyed the concept of a “coven” of middle-aged women living in the same apartment building and providing support to each other as they age in place. Additionally, I found the exploration of Stoicism to be a worthwhile aspect of the book. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @PutnamBooks for the DRC.

****

Death Times Seven- Anne Perry; Victoria Zackheim

 Death Times Seven - Anne Perry, Victoria Zackheim

Pub. Date: April 14, 2026

She Read

The seventh and final novel in the Daniel Pitt series, Daniel finds himself taking over the defense of a young man accused of murder when his associate, Toby, is called home because his mother and father have both been shot.  His mother is dead, his father unconscious, and the police are calling it a murder-suicide.

Daniel is torn between trying to prove his new client’s innocence despite the evidence and also attempting to prove Toby’s father innocent. His beloved wife, Miriam, a doctor of pathology, steps in to assist.

Anne Perry, who was a favorite author of mine, passed away in 2023 with this manuscript unfinished. Her friend and fellow author, Victoria Zackheim, stepped in to complete the story. 

This mystery/legal thriller boasts a compelling plot, suspenseful moments, criminal intrigue, and strong character development. It is particularly interesting to learn the state of forensic pathology in the early 1900s. Kudos to Perry for developing early on in the series female protagonists who are capable, strong, confident individuals. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @RandomHouse #Ballantine Books for the DRC.

****

Hope Rises - David Baldacci

 Hope Rises - David Baldacci

Pub. Date: April 14, 2025

She read

This is the second installment in the new Walter Nash series, which concludes the cliffhanger ending of the first book.

 Walter has completed his transformation into a new identity, Dillon Hope, and is collaborating with the FBI to take down Victoria Steers, the head of a crime syndicate and the woman responsible for the murder of his daughter. Posing as her bodyguard to glean information for her ultimate destruction, he develops an unexpected attachment to her.

Intricately plotted, there are twists, turns, and deceit in this thriller. 

Baldacci has mastered the hero’s quest for retribution and justice, crafting well-developed characters whose motivations are easily comprehendible. While the story strains credulity at times, it remains a suspenseful, action-packed, gripping, and entertaining read.

While this could work as a standalone, I recommend reading the first in the series, Nash Falls, for a deeper understanding of unfolding events.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @GrandcentralPub for the DRC.

****

The Perfect Girl - Andy Maslen

The Perfect Girl - Andy Maslen

Pub. Date: March 31, 2026

She read

The body of university student Rosie Duggan, described as “a perfect girl” is found fallen from the roof of a car park. Although many are willing to ascribe it to a suicide, DS Kat Ballantyne is not convinced that it wasn’t homicide. As she and her partner investigate they find no shortage of possible suspects. They discover that Rosie is not the only “perfect girl” who has met a tragic end, and when another body turns up, they are certain they are dealing with murders.

This is the sixth book is the Kat Ballantyne series. While I am familiar with Andy Maslen’s Inspector Ford books, this is the first I have read in the Ballantyne series.  It works well as a stand alone.

This is a fast- paced, page turner and a solid police procedural. I like Kat; she is a strong, capable female protagonist and her partner, Tomski,  a serious assistant and support to Kat. Although I don’t try to, I did figure out the culprit early in the story, but that didn’t diminish my enjoyment of the story. The ending did leave things a bit up in the air.

I enjoyed this read and will definitely look for the next installment. 

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

****

 

The Dangerous Shore - Sara Vladic

 The Dangerous Shore - Sara Vladic

Pub. Date: March 10, 2026

She read

Subtitled “How a Motley Crew of Scientists, Mobsters, Double Agents, Retirees, Volunteer Pilots (and a Boy Scout) Stopped the Invasion of America,” this comprehensive account delves into the assault on America during World War II. Readers will gain valuable insights into the buildup to America’s entry into the war, German U-boat activity off our coast, and Japanese attacks on American land during the war.

Unprepared for this assault on American shipping, this chronicle of how a group of Civil Air Patrol, other civilians, and even the Mafia united to defend our shores is fascinating. It also offers insight into the arduous task of cryptologists both in the United States and in Britain in deciphering the secret codes of the enemy. The extensive research that went into this book is truly impressive. Some of the dubious actions of the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover demonstrate how in our present times, some things haven’t changed.

History buffs and World War II enthusiasts will relish this account. For others, it provides a glimpse into significant aspects of our history about which many people are unaware. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @WilliamMorrowBooks for the DRC.

****

Buzz Books spring/summer 2026

 Buzz Books spring/summer 2026

She read

This is a sampler of books being published spring/summer 2026, with excerpts from some of them.  It provides a great opportunity to construct a TBR list for the coming months.

 I always look forward to the Buzz Books editions. I just finished this one and now have a list of books from favorite authors as well as some intriguing new titles for the spring/summer. Looks like I am “booked” through the summer.

Thanks to Netgalley and Publishers Lunch BUZZ Books for the DRC.

*****

Dead Woman Walking - Carolyn Arnold

 Dead Woman Walking - Carolyn Arnold

Pub. Date: Feb. 25, 2026

She read

 Prince William County (VA) Detective Amanda Steele is contacted by her half brother because the woman he has been seeing, Christine Lane, a realtor, is missing. Amanda and her detective partner Trent discover her dead body in a house that she was supposed to show a potential buyer. Naturally, suspicion falls on the lover of the victim and the pressure is on for Amanda to prove that her half brother, with whom she has a rocky relationship, is innocent.

The possible motive for the killing expands when Amanda meets the high powered defense attorney who owns the house. Could Christine have been the victim of mistaken identity?

Although this is the fifteenth in the Amanda Steele series and I have read many of them, it can be read as a standalone. Carolyn Arnold’s writing is known for  fast-paced, suspenseful mysteries, and I always reserve one of her books for a day when I have nothing scheduled, knowing that I won’t be able to put it down.

Amanda is a strong, capable, independent female protagonist. Although she can be tough when needed, she has compassion and empathy in her heart. Despite their undeclared attraction for each other, Amanda and Trent make a great investigative team. 

If you’re a fan of police procedurals with well-written, flowing stories and good character development, I highly recommend checking out this series. 

Thanks to  @NetGallely and @Bookouture for the DRC.

*****

Someday This Will Be a Funny Story - Nora Ephron

Someday This Will Be a Funny Story - Nora Ephron

Pub. Date: March 10, 2026

She read

Nora Ephron was successful as an author, screenwriter, journalist, playwright, and film director.  She left this world all too soon in 2012. For those new to her work, it includes such classics as When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, and Silkwood. This book is a collection of short essays based on her writings.

Her observations and words of wisdom are humorous, inspiring, meaningful, poignant, and incredibly enjoyable. Having read most of her books, I was reminded of how brilliantly witty she was. My only disappointment is that this collection could have been longer, as she had so many relatable and insightful thoughts to share. 

Someday This Will Be a Funny Story would make a great gift to give a good friend or a significant woman in your life. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @aaKnopf for the DRC.

*****

 

Want to Know a Secret ? - Freida McFadden

 Want to Know a Secret?  - Freida McFadden

Pub. Date: March 3, 2026

She read

This is another psychological thriller by best selling author Frieda McFadden that turns things upside down. It is told from three perspectives, first from April’s and then from “best” friend’s Julie, and finally from a surprising third person. This unique format keeps the reader guessing, as the story initially takes one direction before revealing another. Who is the true villain here? The twist at the end, though a bit over-the-top, is amusing.

As I was reading this story, I kept thinking of it as mean girls become adults and move to Long Island. 

Fans of McFadden and what I refer to as “popcorn thrillers” will welcome this addition to her body of work. While some may find the first part of the book a bit slow, repetitive and the characters exaggerated, it’s worth persevering for the second part. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @PoisonedPenPress for the DRC.

****

Thanks to @NetGalley and @PoisonedPenPress for the DRC.

Murder at the Duomo - TA Williams

 Murder at the Duomo - TA Williams

Pub. Date: Feb. 2, 2026

This is the fourteenth in the Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery series. It is the first I have read and it works well as a stand-alone.

Englishman Dan Armstrong is a retired DCI living and working as a private investigator in Florence, Italy. His faithful sidekick is Oscar, an instinctively smart canine companion.When a British arms dealer is found dead inside a confessional within the renowned Duomo, Dan’s friend, the local Commissario, seeks his assistance as an interpreter and clue seeker. The arms dealer’s colleagues staying at his expansive estate above the city provide no shortage of suspects. 

This captivating and entertaining read boasts a well-crafted plot that keeps readers guessing. The charming locals and Oscar’s delightful presence make the story enjoyable. The beautiful antiquities and picturesque scenery of Florence immerse the reader in the mystery.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am now eager to revisit some of the earlier installments in the series.

Thanks to @NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks @TheBoldBOokClub for the DRC.

****

The Keeper - Tana French

 The Keeper - Tana French 

Pub. Date: March  31, 2026

She read; he will read

This is the third in the Cal Hooper series, but it can be read independently.   Cal, a former Chicago detective, has retired to a quaint village in Ireland called Ardnakelty.  Engaged to a local woman, he is slowly fitting in to the culture of the village and being accepted by the locals.

Rachel, a young woman engaged to the scion of the local “boss,” is found dead in the river. Was it an accident, suicide, or murder? Rumors, accusations, and fears abound. The town becomes divided into factions. The tension and action escalate, and relationships and lives are endangered. 

The book is long and a bit of a slow burn, but French’s knack for storytelling is so good that I was mesmerized by it. She conveys a good feel for the rural Irish life, its traditions, mores, unspoken social code, and the various colorful characters that make up a small village. 

I enjoy this series, watching the evolution of Cal’s adjustment to life as he navigates the challenges of life in Ardnakelty. French’s descriptions are so immersive that not only can you visualize this village, you can smell it and taste the food. Yes, this is a mystery, but also a very good, literate story. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @VikingBooks for the DRC.

*****