Love You More - Emily Griffin

 Love You More - Emily Griffin

Pub. Date: July 7, 2026

Billie moved on from her home in Wisconsin to medical school in New York City and along the way, lost her high school love, Mick. She has a successful medical practice in the city and is newly engaged to fellow doctor, Dean when she receives a call from Mick with news that changes everything. As she returns to her hometown, she faces some difficult choices involving friends, family, found family, and love. 

Beautifully written, this fast-paced read includes some tortuous and emotionally charged choices. While I’m a fan of second chances, the twist was a bit predictable, and I was disappointed and unsettled with the resolution of this particular story. Nevertheless, I would recommend this as a good summer beach read.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Randomhouse @BallantineBooks for the  DRC.

****

Dead Men Don't Play Fetch - David Rosenfelt

 Dead Men Don't Play Fetch -David Rosenfelt

Pub. Date: July 7, 2026

She read

Despite attorney Andy Carpenter’s desire to retire, he takes on a challenging case of a homeless physicist and veteran accused of murdering a wealthy but eccentric inventor and entrepreneur. There is damning evidence, but Andy believes in the accused’s innocence and works with his team to prove it. 

I always look forward to each addition to this series. In this, the thirty-third installment, the plot is well-paced and engaging, the characters colorful, the dialogue crisp, and the humor laugh-out-loud. And there are adorable dogs. What truly sets Rosenfelt’s writing apart is his ability to infuse humor throughout his stories, particularly through Andy’s witty and sarcastic remarks. This is an entertaining blend of mystery and legal thriller with comedic elements.

As a side note, for those unfamiliar with David Rosenfelt, he and his wife actually have a real-life Tara Foundation for rescue dogs. They’ve rescued thousands of dogs. How can you not adore this author?

Thanks to @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress for the DRC.

*****

The Floating Copenhagen Cafe - Annabel French

 The Floating Copenhagen Cafe  - Annabel French

Pub. Date: July 2, 2026

After discovering her boyfriend with another woman, Milly decides to take a sabbatical from her successful job. Her best friend offers her a place to stay in her canal house in Copenhagen with her house mate, Theo, while her friend is on a photo assignment. Theo is handsome but moody and remote. Despite her strong attraction to him, Milly works with Theo, using her social media skills to help make his less successful cafe more profitable. Along the way, she falls in love with Copenhagen, the hygge lifestyle, and Theo. Will she be able to give up her life in England and break through Theo’s defenses?

This is book three of the Floating Shop series. It is a captivating read with a sweet and enchanting narrative.The book is filled with colorful characters and charming settings, and Copenhagen itself becomes a character in its own right, with vivid descriptions that immerse the reader in the beauty and magic of the city. I did think Milly was a bit annoying, but that did not take away from the charm of the story. 

I don’t read a lot of romances, but I am hooked on this series. Yes, they are all a bit formulaic, but it is a beguiling formula. A young woman, dissatisfied with something in her life, reinvents herself. Along the way she travels to a beautiful locale, is successful, and meets a handsome new man who may be a bit difficult at first. I think what I like most about the series, though, is that the author makes the setting really come alive with her striking portrayals. Copenhagen was never on my “must see" list, but now I really want to visit there. 

This makes a great escapist read for beach, summer, vacation, or any time. I can’t wait to see where the next installment takes me!

Thanks to @NetGalley and @AvonBooksUK for the DRC.

****

Storm Tide - Paul Doiron

 Storm Tide - Paul Doiron

Pub. Date: June 30, 2026

She read

This, the sixteenth in the Mike Bowditch series, finds Mike, a Maine game warden, facing a disciplinary hearing and his wife, Stacy, about to give birth. Following a fire that killed a man accused of killing his son and a gruesome accident resulting in another man accused of rape being run over by a train, it seems a vigilante may be pursuing justice.  When Mike and Stacy appear to be being stalked, the danger to him and his family becomes a pressing concern.

This is another action-packed episode in the life of Mike Bowditch and it does work as a standalone. An atmospheric read, the author conveys a good sense of place and danger.  Bowditch is a compelling character. Persistent, he can often be brash and annoying to others, yet displays a good sense of humor and caring. While some situations and actions may seem over-the-top, almost superhuman in their intensity, they contribute to the thrilling narrative. I hope that in future installments, Mike learns from his experiences and becomes less impulsive and reckless in his pursuit of criminals. After all, he is now a father.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress for the DRC.

****

Birds of Prey -Harlan Coben and C.J. Box, Editors

Birds of Prey - Harlan Coben and C.J. Box, Editors

 Imagine inviting some of your favorite thriller authors to contribute a short story for an anthology you are publishing. That is exactly what Harlan Coben did, giving direction to develop a story using a bird of prey as inspiration.

What transpires is a collection of entertaining and sometimes unsettling tales written by eleven best-selling authors, including some of my favorites as well as some new to me. The stories are fast-paced with creative and surprising plot lines and twists. Each story is introduced by its author, along with an explanation of the bird chosen. This is a fun read. Proceeds from the book benefit the International Thriller Writers group.

The contributors are: 

-Tess Gerritsen
-C.J. Box
-Kathy Reichs
-Ace Atkins
-Heather Graham
-S.A. Cosby
-Hank Philippi Ryan
-Robert Dugoni
-Allison Brennan
-Gregg Hurwitz
-Kelley Armstrong


Thanks to @NetGalley and @PenzlerPub for the DRC.

*****

Buzz Books 2026: Fall/Winter- Publishers Lunch

Buzz Books 2026: Fall/Winter- Publishers Lunch

This is a sampler of books being published fall/winter 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 fall/winter. Looks like I am “booked” through the winter.

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

*****

It Could Have Been Her - Lisa Jewell

 It Could Have Been Her - Lisa Jewell

Pub. Date: June 23, 2026

She Read

Jane Trevally encounters  a small white dog one afternoon and discovers that its owner resides deep in Hampstead outside of London. Upon returning the dog to the strange man who lives there, she recalls once being at that house in a very dangerous situation. She later learns that the dog accompanied a young woman staying near where Jane lives and the woman has disappeared. Fancying herself a private investigator, she  embarks on a quest to find the missing woman, unraveling damning secrets along the way

This is a dark and twisted tale filled with dysfunctional individuals and relationships. There is a house of horrors, life long scars inflicted upon victims of trauma, and even the presence of an evil clown. 

Jewell’s storytelling is masterful, weaving an intricate plot amidst a diverse cast of characters The timeline shifts between the present and different years in the past, and the narrative alternates between various characters’ perspectives. Due to the multi-generational nature of the characters, readers may find it helpful to jot down a brief family tree for reference to keep track of names and relationships.

Fans of Jewell’s writing may recognize Jane as a minor character introduced in the author’s Don’t Let Him In.  As Jane seems interested in becoming a private investigator with her step son, Dexter as an assistant, could this be the beginning of new series? 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @AtriaBooks for the DRC.

****

Bio-Logic Herbalism. Evidence-Based Natural Herbal Remedies & Home Apothecary Protocols for the Whole Family by Hazel Wells

Bio-Logic Herbalism. Evidence-Based Natural Herbal Remedies & Home Apothecary Protocols for the Whole Family

by Hazel Wells

 When I was growing up, I recall my mother having a book that served as a comprehensive encyclopedia of home and herbal remedies for various ailments. She frequently consulted it and relied on the straightforward suggestions provided to treat ailments. I believe that’s what I was seeking when I chose this book. Unfortunately, it’s not that simple.

Instead, it’s a detailed and all-encompassing roadmap for anyone aspiring to become a practicing herbalist. While I appreciate that it’s based on science and evidence, it was far too complex for practical everyday use by me.

However, it’s an excellent resource for those interested in exploring botanical medicine. It provides step-by-step instructions for various infused oils, tinctures, salves, tonics, syrups, and more, catering to different concerns and conditions. Additionally, it offers guidance on administering recommended remedies to children and addressing potential drug and medical interactions.

For those seeking simple herbal remedies, this book is not the best choice. Nevertheless, it’s a five-star read for those interested in delving deeper into botanical medicine.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #BooksgoSocial for theDRC.

*****/**

The Secrets We Hide - Karin Slaughter

 The Secrets We Hide - Karin Slaughter

Pub. Date: June 18, 2026

She read

In this, the second installment in the North Falls series, Sheriff Emmy Clifton is still mourning the murder of her father and the recent death of her mother who had dementia. On the way from her mother’s funeral with her long lost sister, Jude, they hear gunshots. Stopping to investigate, they find a friend of Emmy’s, a former police officer, and her daughter shot. Tragically, the friend is dead, and the daughter is in critical condition. Amidst some unresolved family issues, Emmy faces challenges from an untrustworthy deputy who is running against her for sheriff, a small town with diverse opinions, abusive ex-husbands, drugs, and corrupt cops as she works to unravel a lot of history and find the culprit before the town turns on her. 

Karin Slaughter weaves together a captivating blend of mystery, thriller, family drama, police procedural, and a small-town saga. The plot is meticulously crafted, featuring unexpected twists, red herrings, intriguing puzzles to solve, and colorfully drawn characters. Emmy hails from a prominent clan deeply rooted in the area, and Slaughter captures well the claustrophobic atmosphere of an insular community where everyone knows each other’s business.

As this is only the second in the series, it’s not too late to go back and read the first installment, We Are All Guilty Here. It is not necessary to have read it prior to this book, but it is such a good series, you just might want to seek it out. 

*****

Beach Thriller - Jamie Day

 Beach Thriller - Jamie Day

Pub. Date: June 9,2026

She read

A Massachusetts beach town harboring secrets. An author grappling with writer's block forced to return to her dilapidated childhood summer cottage, where she tries to discover the truth behind her sister’s death. A juvenile delinquent seeking answers about her background finding refuge in the same coastal town. Amidst the backdrop of a wealthy family exerting its power, danger lurks, and an unseen watcher observes all.

This is another story of wealthy people behaving badly, albeit with lots of twists, one of which readers will figure out fairly early in the narrative. It is not a fast-paced read but the suspense builds as the story unfolds with its surprises and revelations. The plot, though somewhat convoluted and over-the-top, provides an entertaining summer read, perfect for pool or beachside relaxation. 

Thanks to  @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress for the DRC.

****

Death at the Castle Gates - Nick Oldham

 Death at the Castle Gates - Nick Oldham

Pub. Date: June 2, 2026

She read

For safety reasons, Sergeant Jessica Raker has relocated her family from London to rural Lancashire, a move that has strained her relationship with her husband. Jessica and her team are on the hunt for a local criminal who puts their lives in danger. One of their beloved colleagues, Dougie Doolan, is battling cancer, and his final wish is for Jessica to solve a case that has haunted him for years. Additionally, there are loose ends from her previous case involving a childhood enemy who has risen to become the queen of crime in the area, as well as a DI who seems to have a personal vendetta against Jessica. All these elements converge for a lot of action in the town of Clitheroe.  

This fast-paced and engaging read had a compelling storyline and well-developed characters. I particularly admire Jessica, an all-too-human but dedicated individual grappling with personal issues while trying to make a way for herself in her new position. The camaraderie among the established team members is also noteworthy, and I couldn’t wait to see if DI Price and the annoying new team member, Ashley, would get their due.

There is a bit of the supernatural in this story, of which I am not a big fan, but it did not take away from my enjoyment of the narrative.

This is the third in the Jessica Raker series. I read the second book, and while I don’t believe it’s essential to read the prior installments to follow the plot and characters, doing so would provide valuable background information. The ending leaves room for a potential third story, which I eagerly anticipate.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @SevernHouseImprint for the DRC.

*****

Marion - Leah Rowan

 Marion - Leah Rowan

Pub. Date: June 2, 2026

She read

Remember Alfred Hitchcock’s film Psycho (which was based on a book) where the very disturbed innkeeper kills the "fair maiden”? Well, what if the roles were reversed and instead of the woman dying, she kills the innkeeper? That is the opening premise behind this book. Marion is victim no more. She has stolen money and is on the run, but when Norm (Billings in this tale) strikes out at her, she fights back and kills him.  However, this is just the beginning of her female rage as she avenges personal wrongs.

There is a secondary interrelated storyline of a rookie private investigator looking for a young woman who has disappeared and may have stayed at the Billings Motel.

This is a compelling, if macabre read whose ending just might make you smile. I love the premise, but this not  a simple retelling of the Psycho story.  It is more of a reimagining, inspired by it. Sure, you will have to suspend belief, but isn’t that what fiction is sometimes about?

 The story explores complex themes such as maternal bonds, sexism, abuse, female retribution, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, family bonds and loyalty. At times, the pace does lag due to a lot of introspection as part of a decision making process, but the story does pick up making it an entertaining tale of horror and rage. 

****

Road Trip - Mary Kay Andrews

 Road Trip - Mary Kay Andrews

Pub. Date: June 2, 2026

She read

Mary Kay Andrews is back with another entertaining beach/summer/vacation read, romance intertwined with mystery and family drama. 

Sisters Therese and Maeve have been estranged from each other for years. Therese pursued an unsuccessful acting career, while Maeve chose a more conventional path as a college English instructor. Maeve was the one who returned home to care for their mother when she became ill.  When their mother died, she left behind a single wish that the sisters travel to Ireland together to uncover their family roots, which included a supposed ancestral portrait that could hold significant value.

Therese is struggling financially, while Maeve, having taken a leave of absence to care for their mother, has just been laid off. Their hopes of inheriting their mother's house and selling it are dashed when they discover she had mortgaged it. Faced with these challenges, they decide to take the modest amount of money their mother left for this trip and embark on the adventure. 

This was a joy to read as Maeve brought her stereotypical Southern charm and Therese her New York moxie to a picturesque small town in Ireland. I liked the combination of the different genres and the flashbacks to their ancestors’ story.  This was fast-paced, with an intriguing story, perfect as an escapist read. 

Thanks to @NetGalley and @Stmartinspress for the DRC.

****