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| 1789317533
| 9781789317534
| B09166V4F7
| 4.13
| 1,114
| Apr 08, 2021
| Apr 08, 2021
|
liked it
| Coffin Cove by Jackie Elliott is the first in the series of the same name. It is a mystery novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe B Coffin Cove by Jackie Elliott is the first in the series of the same name. It is a mystery novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul), and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Andi Silvers, a disgraced journalist, finds herself in Coffin Cove, a small logging and fishing town on Vancouver Island. After screwing up a story, and being dumped by her married co-worker, she had no choice but to leave. She is doing a lot of drinking and moping in her spare time, and she knows she has to shape up, or she won't even have a job at the small-town Gazette. When two sea lions turn up on the shore, both shot, local fisherman are blamed. But when a body turns up, also shot, definitive answers are needed. Andi is looking into the story, and she wonders if this actually ties into another death from 20 years ago that was never solved. There seems to be a lot going on in this small town. My Opinions: I have to admit to struggling with this one. I'm not really into logging or fishing, so Coffin Cove may not be my type of series. They say location is everything, and apparently it is in books as well. That being said, it was a really good mystery, twisting in a lot of different directions. The writing was fine, as were the characters. Yes, I figured out what was going on fairly early, but not everything, so that was good. What I did figure out didn't detract from the story. Overall, a good read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Coffin Cove by Jackie Elliott is the first in the series of the same name. It is a mystery novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul), and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Andi Silvers, a disgraced journalist, finds herself in Coffin Cove, a small logging and fishing town on Vancouver Island. After screwing up a story, and being dumped by her married co-worker, she had no choice but to leave. She is doing a lot of drinking and moping in her spare time, and she knows she has to shape up, or she won't even have a job at the small-town Gazette. When two sea lions turn up on the shore, both shot, local fisherman are blamed. But when a body turns up, also shot, definitive answers are needed. Andi is looking into the story, and she wonders if this actually ties into another death from 20 years ago that was never solved. There seems to be a lot going on in this small town. My Opinions: I have to admit to struggling with this one. I'm not really into logging or fishing, so Coffin Cove may not be my type of series. They say location is everything, and apparently it is in books as well. That being said, it was a really good mystery, twisting in a lot of different directions. The writing was fine, as were the characters. Yes, I figured out what was going on fairly early, but not everything, so that was good. What I did figure out didn't detract from the story. Overall, a good read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Apr 2021
not set
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Apr 03, 2021
not set
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Sep 26, 2024
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ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789317517
| 9781789317510
| B08ZJPQNCB
| 4.10
| 2,586
| Apr 14, 2021
| Apr 15, 2021
|
it was amazing
| 4.5 stars Knife Edge by Kerry Buchanan is the first in the new crime series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGall 4.5 stars Knife Edge by Kerry Buchanan is the first in the new crime series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Information: DS Asha Harvey, along with DC Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Even though Nic hated nightclubs, she went out because she had promised a friend. Colm said he would go if she did. When she wakes up, she is naked, gagged, and her hands bound behind her. Her body is covered in knife wounds. Colm is across the room, and in worse shape than she is. When the man returned on the sixth day, and started in on Colm again, Nic broke free and ran. DS Asha Harvey and DC Aaron Birch locate the cabin where Nic was held, but Colm is nowhere to be found. Actually, other than the copious amounts of blood, the entire place was cleared out. DI Ram has come to Belfast to assist in the case. He has been following this particular perpetrator for some time. This is not the first "Slasher" case there has been, and Nic may not be the last. When someone close to her is taken, Nic is willing to do almost anything to end this nightmare. My Opinions: For a debut novel, this was simply amazing, and definitely made me want to read more of this series. The writing was really good. Occasionally the descriptions were a little lengthy, like the scene where Nic was in the fields looking for her sister, and again when Aaron and Nic were at the boat, both which caused me to skim a bit. But otherwise, things moved very quickly, and everything was so entertaining, that I only deducted 1/2 star for that. The characters were great. I love Asha and Aaron. I was surprised, and pleased, that a victim would play such a large role in the solving of the crime, and in the book. This is rarely done, so it was a pleasant occurrence, and it worked! As I said, the plot and twists were fabulous. I had guessed the perpetrator early on, but that really didn't matter. The ending was a shock, and totally appropriate! It even had a glossary of terms for "US readers"....which I didn't really think was necessary. This was just an amazing, entertaining read, and a great start to a new series. It grabbed me from the start and still had me at the end. The suspense and action was non-stop. Definitely one of those "unputdownable" novels. Rarely do I find one in a debut novel. I have found myself a new author to follow! I can't wait for the next one. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, author information and a favorite quotation from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: 4.5 stars Knife Edge by Kerry Buchanan is the first in the new crime series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Information: DS Asha Harvey, along with DC Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Even though Nic hated nightclubs, she went out because she had promised a friend. Colm said he would go if she did. When she wakes up, she is naked, gagged, and her hands bound behind her. Her body is covered in knife wounds. Colm is across the room, and in worse shape than she is. When the man returned on the sixth day, and started in on Colm again, Nic broke free and ran. DS Asha Harvey and DC Aaron Birch locate the cabin where Nic was held, but Colm is nowhere to be found. Actually, other than the copious amounts of blood, the entire place was cleared out. DI Ram has come to Belfast to assist in the case. He has been following this particular perpetrator for some time. This is not the first "Slasher" case there has been, and Nic may not be the last. When someone close to her is taken, Nic is willing to do almost anything to end this nightmare. My Opinions: For a debut novel, this was simply amazing, and definitely made me want to read more of this series. The writing was really good. Occasionally the descriptions were a little lengthy, like the scene where Nic was in the fields looking for her sister, and again when Aaron and Nic were at the boat, both which caused me to skim a bit. But otherwise, things moved very quickly, and everything was so entertaining, that I only deducted 1/2 star for that. The characters were great. I love Asha and Aaron. I was surprised, and pleased, that a victim would play such a large role in the solving of the crime, and in the book. This is rarely done, so it was a pleasant occurrence, and it worked! As I said, the plot and twists were fabulous. I had guessed the perpetrator early on, but that really didn't matter. The ending was a shock, and totally appropriate! It even had a glossary of terms for "US readers"....which I didn't really think was necessary. This was just an amazing, entertaining read, and a great start to a new series. It grabbed me from the start and still had me at the end. The suspense and action was non-stop. Definitely one of those "unputdownable" novels. Rarely do I find one in a debut novel. I have found myself a new author to follow! I can't wait for the next one. For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, author information and a favorite quotation from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Apr 02, 2021
not set
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Apr 04, 2021
not set
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Sep 26, 2024
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Kindle Edition
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| 1789317150
| 9781789317152
| B08WCN65JL
| 4.22
| 3,315
| Feb 25, 2021
| Feb 25, 2021
|
liked it
| The Faceless Man by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detectives Lennox & Wilde series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, a The Faceless Man by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detectives Lennox & Wilde series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DI Harry Lennox and DS Jess Wilde are detectives in Ryebridge in Northern England. They have been working together for the last couple of years. Harry's past is slowly coming to light, as we have learned that both his twin brother Paul and his father were killed in a suspicious fire in Scotland, while Harry was trying to take down a crime lord. He doesn't talk about it, and his true identity is being brought into question. He has recently had to find other sleeping arrangements as his friend's campervan was set ablaze, hoping for Harry's demise. Jess is living with her parents, but saving for a house of her own. Their boss is Superintendent Roderick Croft. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) When the body of teenager Dean Greenwood is found stabbed to death in a local park, Harry and Jess learn that the young man felt he was on the hunt for a serial killer. It looks like he may have been right, and it got him killed. Dean's bedroom walls and computers were a wealth of information, and identifying the pictures on his boards lead them to other murders and to three as-yet unidentified people that may be the killer's next victims. One of them is just a blank cut-out of a faceless man. So Jess and Harry, with the assistance of officer Colin Vance, are trying to track down these people before they are the next victims of this killer. Meanwhile, Harry is still being hounded by his past. My Opinions: Still not positive I like the characters. Harry works on "instinct", and Jess works with facts. That sounds great, but they are often at odds with each other, which sometimes makes for tense reading. Harry is still hiding stuff about his past, and Jess is still nit-picking. By the end of the book things were a bit better. Again, a couple of things were dropped, for example did they ever look into what officer took and ignored Dean's original call? I'm still not convinced this series is going to live up to my expectations. I love the author, and her writing is good. The plot was interesting and the twists good, but I think it's just that I'm not sure about the characters. They aren't really growing on me. However, it was still a fast and entertaining read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: The Faceless Man by Helen H. Durrant is the second in the Detectives Lennox & Wilde series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DI Harry Lennox and DS Jess Wilde are detectives in Ryebridge in Northern England. They have been working together for the last couple of years. Harry's past is slowly coming to light, as we have learned that both his twin brother Paul and his father were killed in a suspicious fire in Scotland, while Harry was trying to take down a crime lord. He doesn't talk about it, and his true identity is being brought into question. He has recently had to find other sleeping arrangements as his friend's campervan was set ablaze, hoping for Harry's demise. Jess is living with her parents, but saving for a house of her own. Their boss is Superintendent Roderick Croft. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) When the body of teenager Dean Greenwood is found stabbed to death in a local park, Harry and Jess learn that the young man felt he was on the hunt for a serial killer. It looks like he may have been right, and it got him killed. Dean's bedroom walls and computers were a wealth of information, and identifying the pictures on his boards lead them to other murders and to three as-yet unidentified people that may be the killer's next victims. One of them is just a blank cut-out of a faceless man. So Jess and Harry, with the assistance of officer Colin Vance, are trying to track down these people before they are the next victims of this killer. Meanwhile, Harry is still being hounded by his past. My Opinions: Still not positive I like the characters. Harry works on "instinct", and Jess works with facts. That sounds great, but they are often at odds with each other, which sometimes makes for tense reading. Harry is still hiding stuff about his past, and Jess is still nit-picking. By the end of the book things were a bit better. Again, a couple of things were dropped, for example did they ever look into what officer took and ignored Dean's original call? I'm still not convinced this series is going to live up to my expectations. I love the author, and her writing is good. The plot was interesting and the twists good, but I think it's just that I'm not sure about the characters. They aren't really growing on me. However, it was still a fast and entertaining read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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Jun 23, 2021
not set
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Jun 25, 2021
not set
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Sep 20, 2024
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1789318424
| 9781789318425
| B095KTWGNN
| 4.33
| 1,228
| Jun 03, 2021
| Jun 03, 2021
|
really liked it
| Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan is the second in the new detective series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan is the second in the new detective series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Detectives Asha Harvey, and Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. Asha is always trying to prove herself as the rare Indian woman in a largely white, male police force. Aaron, too is trying to prove himself, because he became a detective through a graduate recruitment scheme, so his fellow officers think he jumped procedures. Their boss is CS Yvonne Patterson, who can be a little abrupt. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Asha is now Acting Detective Inspector of the branch, and she feels even more determined to prove herself capable. When the remains of a child are found in a garden, she is right there. Sue Hearn was planting a herb garden, outside the family estate. It is just her and her father left, and he has dementia. She didn't expect to find a child's skeleton on the site of her grandfather's old greenhouse. Asha and Aaron start trying to finding out the identity of the child, and also start looking into the disappearance of Sue's mother when Sue was just a teenager. It seems she went missing about 30 years ago, which is also along the timeline that the body had been buried. Sue's father has been talking to her about her missing mother lately, and seems to be under the impression it could have been a policeman who was responsible. But with his memory issues, how much does Sue believe. As the investigation continues, it appears that Sue's father may have been right, and now more lives are in danger. My Opinions: This is only the author's second novel (and the second in the series), and it is really good. The author continues to prove herself as the books are well-written and the plots good. Yes, sometimes the descriptions are a little long, but all in all, I enjoyed the from start to finish. The characters are great. I love both Asha and Aaron. Again, I was pleased that the victim (Sue) was very involved in the book. The story is told from different perspectives, and I really enjoyed Sue's take on everything that was happening around her. As in the first, the book had a glossary of terms for "US readers". Maybe I have read enough British authors, but this didn't really seem necessary. The book ended in a bit of a cliffhanger, and but definitely peaked my interest in reading the next book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ Merged review: Small Bones by Kerry Buchanan is the second in the new detective series starring Detectives Asha Harvey and Aaron Birch. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books (in particular Nina Kicul for sending me a widget), and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Detectives Asha Harvey, and Aaron Birch handle crime in Belfast, Ireland. Asha is always trying to prove herself as the rare Indian woman in a largely white, male police force. Aaron, too is trying to prove himself, because he became a detective through a graduate recruitment scheme, so his fellow officers think he jumped procedures. Their boss is CS Yvonne Patterson, who can be a little abrupt. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Asha is now Acting Detective Inspector of the branch, and she feels even more determined to prove herself capable. When the remains of a child are found in a garden, she is right there. Sue Hearn was planting a herb garden, outside the family estate. It is just her and her father left, and he has dementia. She didn't expect to find a child's skeleton on the site of her grandfather's old greenhouse. Asha and Aaron start trying to finding out the identity of the child, and also start looking into the disappearance of Sue's mother when Sue was just a teenager. It seems she went missing about 30 years ago, which is also along the timeline that the body had been buried. Sue's father has been talking to her about her missing mother lately, and seems to be under the impression it could have been a policeman who was responsible. But with his memory issues, how much does Sue believe. As the investigation continues, it appears that Sue's father may have been right, and now more lives are in danger. My Opinions: This is only the author's second novel (and the second in the series), and it is really good. The author continues to prove herself as the books are well-written and the plots good. Yes, sometimes the descriptions are a little long, but all in all, I enjoyed the from start to finish. The characters are great. I love both Asha and Aaron. Again, I was pleased that the victim (Sue) was very involved in the book. The story is told from different perspectives, and I really enjoyed Sue's take on everything that was happening around her. As in the first, the book had a glossary of terms for "US readers". Maybe I have read enough British authors, but this didn't really seem necessary. The book ended in a bit of a cliffhanger, and but definitely peaked my interest in reading the next book. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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2
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May 28, 2021
not set
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May 30, 2021
not set
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Aug 01, 2024
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 183790040X
| 9781837900404
| B0BZYQM4QL
| 4.39
| 1,446
| Jul 25, 2023
| Jul 25, 2023
|
it was amazing
| 4.5 stars Her Last Tear by Stacy Green is the seventh in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and o 4.5 stars Her Last Tear by Stacy Green is the seventh in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Contains spoilers from previous books) Nikki Hunt is an FBI Agent whose parents were murdered when she was young. Their real killer is behind bars, after she helped free Mark Todd (who she originally helped incarcerate). She now lives with his brother Rory, and family dynamics are settling down. She has a young daughter (Lacey), and her ex-husband (Tyler) was murdered by a serial killer (Frost) who is also now behind bars, and is apparently Nikki's half-brother. Nikki heads the BAU unit based out of St. Paul Minnesota. Her team consists of Crime Scene Analyst Courtney Hart and Agent Liam Wilson. They work closely with Sherrif Kent Miller. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Six year old Abby and her nine year old sister Thea disappear during a fireworks display, while their mother Britney went to the restroom. An amber alert is issued before most of the attendees left the area. But it did no good. The two girls were gone, and no one saw anything. As Nikki starts interviewing the family, she is dismayed to learn that Britney escaped from a polygamous religious group years ago, and she is sure that they have kidnapped her daughters. Britney's husband, a wealthy orthopedic surgeon, concurs. However Shane has secrets of his own. So the team is busy. Between looking into the religious group, the surgeon's many affairs, sex offenders in the area, and dealing with multiple jurisdictions, it is a rough case. It is not until a witness comes forward with information about a teenager holding one of the children's pink purses, that things start looking up. But even then, the identity of the witness is heartbreaking for the team. Before too long, the body of one of the children is found, and the hunt for the remaining little girl escalates. My Opinions: Although I liked the cover, the red ribbon had nothing to do with the book, so once more I am confused. Maybe a pink purse....but the ribbon? However, this plot was really good, and the perpetrator a surprise. There were a lot of red herrings that lead to an interesting and compelling story. It was a fast and entertaining read, and I continue to love Nikki and her team. It was interesting how it showed the compassion that law enforcement has for the victims, and that their emotions sometimes get the better of them. This felt so right. Anyway, it was another great read, and I'm already looking forward to the next one! For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Jul 03, 2023
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Jul 21, 2023
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Jul 03, 2023
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ebook
| ||||||||||||||
| 1800196342
| 9781800196346
| B09HXXS8LW
| 4.48
| 6,026
| Dec 10, 2021
| Dec 10, 2021
|
really liked it
| The Drowning Girls by Lisa Regan is the 13th in the Detective Josie Quinn series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of cours The Drowning Girls by Lisa Regan is the 13th in the Detective Josie Quinn series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Detective Josie Quinn has had a rough life, and she recently lost her beloved grandmother. She has a rather new family, although they are actually her biological parents, and include her twin sister - news reporter Trinity Payne, as well as her brother Patrick. She is now back at work with the Denton Police Department, and her team consists of Detective Noah Fraley (her new husband), Detective Gretchen Palmer, and Detective Finn Mettner. Their boss is Chief Bob Chitwood. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Detective Finn Mettner has been dating the departments Press Secretary Amber Watts for about a year now. When she goes missing, it quickly becomes apparent that there have been some secrets kept. They find the body of a young woman drowned in the nearby dam, and for a few tense moments, they think it is Amber. The team focuses on the pink diary that is found on Amber's desk, and the numbers contained within it. They try to find more information her family, which not even Finn knows about. The only way to find Amber is to find out more about her, but it's beginning to look like there were good reasons for Amber to stay away from her family. My Opinions: Although I generally push others to read this series in order, this one could probably be read as a stand-alone novel. That being said, read them in order! I liked that Josie's grief over her grandmother's passing was not swept away, and that the author showed that grief comes and goes. This book centered on families, the good and the bad. Overall, the story was complex, if a little long. Although I had suspected a few of the twists, not all were evident. Anyway, Lisa Regan continues to have a winner with the Josie Quinn books. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 04, 2021
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Dec 31, 2021
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Dec 31, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 0008484090
| 9780008484095
| B08WRY8Q4N
| 4.36
| 2,307
| Oct 14, 2021
| Oct 14, 2021
|
it was amazing
| Trick or Treat by Katerina Diamond is the 7th in the Imogen Grey detective series. These books are complex, gritty, encompassing people with real p Trick or Treat by Katerina Diamond is the 7th in the Imogen Grey detective series. These books are complex, gritty, encompassing people with real problems, and great plots. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Avon Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DS Imogen Grey, and her partner DS Adrian Miles don’t always play be the rules, but they are both top-notch detectives. They have learned to trust one another. Their relationship is complicated. They are starting to trust their boss, DCI Kapoor. Other members of the team include DI Matt Walsh and Forensic Specialist Gary Tunnney. Two new members are Family Liaison Officer DC Gabriel Webb and DC Ben Jarvis. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Six-year old Marcus is kidnapped, right outside his house on Halloween. A teenager, who isn't supposed to be there, witnesses the crime. He anonymously calls the police, but quickly leaves before he is caught. Jason doesn't really want to be part of this, but will become much more involved than he likes. Imogen and Matt quickly get to the house, but Marcus's parents say everything is fine. The police don't buy their story, and eventually learn of the kidnapping. They decide to keep it quiet while they investigate, hoping for a quick resolution without media attention. Meanwhile, Imogen and Adrian are trying to get more out of their relationship, but Adrian is having issues. After his brutal rape, he is trying to move forward, but can't seem to abide Imogen's touch. His own self-loathing and shame are preventing him from having the loving relationship they both need. Things are tense between them, especially since he has not yet told Imogen about the attack. Adrian has left the police force and is working for a security company. In his spare time he is trying to track down the man that raped him. However, he may be the one that ends up in jail. My Opinions: OMG, this was really good. Each book in this series has been a 4 or 5 star book in my opinion. The series is simply one of the best, most interesting police procedurals out there. I would watch a tv series! The author doesn't pull any punches, and although some scenes are a little graphic, everything works. Katerina Diamond's writing is phenomenal. Remember to read the books in order, because the background is EVERYTHING. The characters themselves are not perfect, and have real issues, but nothing seems phony. They are complex, deep characters. We learn more about the trauma that Adrian is still going through, and it felt real. Again, the author gave us an emotional and heart-felt story-line, with tension throughout. Basically, I will read whatever Katerina Diamond decides to write! For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Oct 27, 2021
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Dec 27, 2021
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Dec 27, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 0008468028
| 9680008468028
| 3.56
| 709
| unknown
| Dec 09, 2021
|
really liked it
| Hide by Nell Pattison is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Avon Books and of course the author, for providing me w Hide by Nell Pattison is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Avon Books and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Lauren and her younger sister Emily have been separated for 11 years. Lauren left the foster care system at 18 and ventured out on her own, and has struggled to make ends meet. Emily has recently reached out, and they are getting to know each other once again. Emily is deaf, and has developed an app to help the disabled, and she is doing quite well. On Boxing Day, they are attending the Nature Group walk that Lauren has been a part of for a few years. Other members of the group include Morna, an older volunteer who doesn't see eye-to-eye with Lauren; Alec, who is a mid-50's know-it-all; Ben, who asked Lauren out a couple of times but is now obsessed with Emily; Kai, who is trying to fit in, but always seems to be late; and Dan, who is fairly new to the group. On a recent get-together, Alec had a few too many drinks, and said things that the group are all thinking about. No one is real thrilled with the man right now. Shortly after the group gets situated in various spots along the trail to watch the murmation of starlings, a shot rings out, and one of their members is dead. Is the shooter one of them, or is there someone else out there stalking them? My Opinions: I loved how the author alternated the chapters by character, thereby allowing the reader to know what each one was thinking. This worked really well. I had a love/hate relationship with each character. All gained depth as the story progressed, but my opinion of each really never changed from my initial thought of them. The book is about both group and family dynamics. It is about jealousy, and trust, about secrets, and about fear. The resentment was often palpable, and although I enjoyed the tension it created, the constant "bitchiness" annoyed me. The overall plot was great, and the way everyone's secrets were revealed was very good. Parts were a bit unbelievable, as Ben did a lot of walking around with that head wound, and of course people kept hitting him in the head -- that was a bit much. The ending, although I did not particularly like it, came as no surprise. I did like how the author incorporated her knowledge of the deaf community into the book. I learned quite a bit. This is the author's first stand-alone novel, and the first book of hers that I have read. I have her Paige Northwood series on my radar now.. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and her contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 04, 2021
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Dec 21, 2021
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Dec 21, 2021
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Paperback
| |||||||||||||||
| 1800198353
| 9781800198357
| 1800198353
| 4.27
| 4,675
| Dec 07, 2021
| Dec 07, 2021
|
really liked it
| Stillwater Island (was originally to be titled Vanishing Point) by Gregg Olsen is the fourth in the Detective Megan Carpenter Tapes series. First, let Stillwater Island (was originally to be titled Vanishing Point) by Gregg Olsen is the fourth in the Detective Megan Carpenter Tapes series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Megan Carpenter is a detective in Port Townsend, Washington. Her childhood was a nightmare, with a mother who did little but lie, and a father Alex, who was a serial killer. Her uncle, Michael Rader, was just as bad. Her brother Hayden, who she tried to protect, joined the Army, and has never forgiven her for what she did. She is re-living her childhood by listening to tapes made by a therapist, who is the only one who knows her full story. As a detective, she works under her friend and mentor, Sheriff Tony Gray, and now has a young partner Detective Ronnie Marsh. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Marlena wakes to find her asthmatic 4 year old son Bennie laying next to her. She has no idea where she is, but her thoughts keep going to the news of a few days ago, when the body of a pregnant woman and her two children were found hidden in a barrel. Marlena is pregnant too. Megan and Ronnie are called when Ben Parker reports his wife and son missing. This case hits a little close to home for her boss, as it is Tony's niece and nephew who are missing. Megan is determined to find them, but she is met with one lie after the next. Ben Parker does not seem to be the loving husband and father that he tries to portray. The neighbours report loud fights, there is talk of an affair, and his own father doesn't trust him. My Opinions: I really think these books should be read in order. Although Megan's background is repeated often (a little too often), her relationships with others builds slowly throughout the different books. I feel that reading them in order gives you a better understanding of her current life. This was quite good, but I felt it was a little long. Olsen can be a little long winded at times, and it was evident in this book. The case brought back a lot of Megan's memories of her own life, so it often felt like I was reading two stories. But overall, both stories were interesting. I really like Megan, and love the banter between her and Ronnie, and her and Tony. The dialog in the book is often light and "fun". Megan's relationships with her co-workers are becoming closer, and I like the characters around her. The book showed how a first impression can sometimes create tunnel vision, and if you are stubborn (as is one of Megan's traits), it can create problems. The book also delved into families, and how not every family is perfect. I'm hoping a little honesty between Megan and her brother will surface soon....although I have wished that before. Anyway, the twists were good (although a little predictable), and the overall plot was good. As always, the writing was straight-forward. I am looking forward to the next in the series! BTW, not sure where the title came from? For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 07, 2021
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Feb 07, 2022
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Dec 07, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1800197128
| 9781800197121
| B09KM8JM4G
| 4.38
| 951
| Dec 16, 2021
| Dec 16, 2021
|
really liked it
| 3.5 stars Her Dying Wish by Carla Kovach is the 10th in the Detective Gina Harte series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of 3.5 stars Her Dying Wish by Carla Kovach is the 10th in the Detective Gina Harte series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DI Gina Harte works homicides. Her team consists of: DS Jacob Driscoll, DC Harry O’Connor and DC Paula Wyre, with a lot of assistance from PC Smith and PC Kapoor. Gina is a stubborn lady, and a determined detective. She has had a rough life, which has led to an uneasy relationship with her daughter and grand-daughter. It has also led to a lack of real friends, and an on-again/off-again relationship with her boss, DCI Chris Briggs. It is not common knowledge that her husband was abusive, and only Briggs knows that she did not save him when he fell to his death many years ago. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) An abusive husband goes up in flames with the house while his wife is staying at a hotel with the kids. She had left him a few days before the fire. When another of their friends almost suffers a similar fate, Gina and the team start looking into their lives. The four women are part of a gym club, and their husbands are also friends. So, questions arise whether the fire had to do with one of them, or if this is totally unrelated. But when they discover a child is missing, the whole case takes another turn. Meanwhile, Gina is being hounded by a reporter who is writing the story of her husbands death, and he plans on making sure that everyone will know that Gina is to blame. She may lose her family, her job, and her freedom, if the full story comes out. My Opinions: Okay, as much as I like this series, I almost stopped reading at the end of the 2nd chapter, when I realized that this was yet another book about Gina's dead husband. I am sooooo sick of this storyline, which tends to take over the true mystery. I thought it was finally finished in the last book....now I hope it may be again. As pretty as the cover is, it again has nothing to do with the book. The book is told in different perspectives, one of which is a little boy. Although it was easy to determine the identity of the child early on, if was definitely a great segment. The other characters were just as interesting. The overall plot was very good. The book is about rape, about abusive relationships, about hatred of women, about revenge, and of course about murder. All rather depressing and dark topics, but done really well. The mystery parts of these books are all 4 or 5 stars, but my annoyance at the character development is starting to really annoy me. So, although I will again wait for the next in the series, I sincerely hope that it will devote more time to the actual current crime, and less to Gina's ancient history. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 11, 2021
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Dec 15, 2021
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Dec 05, 2021
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Kindle Edition
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| 9780008485412
| 3.70
| 6,927
| Dec 09, 2021
| Dec 09, 2021
|
really liked it
| 3.5 stars The Girl Upstairs by Georgina Lees is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harper Collins UK (One More Chapt 3.5 stars The Girl Upstairs by Georgina Lees is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Harper Collins UK (One More Chapter), and in particular Sara Roberts for sending me a widget, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Suzie Arlington owns the first floor flat of a busy London neighbourhood. She loves her peace and quiet. She is trying, not too successfully, to get over a loss. Unfortunately, her upstairs neighbour, Emily, is loud. If it isn't her heels on the wood floor it is the loud phone calls, the loud music, the parties and the guests. Then there is the garbage in the hallway, and the wine bottles in the bin. Suzie has complained to the owner of the flat, and to the council, but.... When Suzie finds she hasn't heard Emily's constant noise for a few days, she realizes that the girl is missing, and is sure that she is the only one that can find out what happened. After all, she probably knows Emily better than anyone. My Opinions: First, for a debut novel, this was quite good. It grabbed me from the first chapter, and although it moved slowly, it ended up being a fast read. Early on we realize that we have a narrator who may be a bit unreliable and emotionally troubled, but we are cheering for her anyway. The book is about families and love, depression and grief. It is also about obsession. Overall, it was quite sad, as both Suzie and Emily are rather tragic characters. Although I had doubted the actions of the perpetrator, I also doubted my opinion, so was rather surprised when I was right. That was fun. Anyway, I will be watching this author! For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, author information and a favorite quotation or two from the book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 02, 2021
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Dec 09, 2021
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Dec 01, 2021
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ebook
| ||||||||||||||||
| 1736695029
| 9781736695029
| B099FD7BQF
| 3.34
| 98
| unknown
| Aug 31, 2021
|
really liked it
| 3.5 stars Let Me Out I’ve Had Enough by Mark Matthews is an anthology of his horror stories. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Wicked Run Pre 3.5 stars Let Me Out I’ve Had Enough by Mark Matthews is an anthology of his horror stories. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Wicked Run Press and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis and Opinions: (No major reveals) Okay, I admit that this is a new author for me, but since I love a good horror story, I thought....sounds good! Then the author provides an introduction, and I find out that the theme of all of these stories is suicide. Now, I'm not too sure. But I decided to persevere. Here is a brief synopsis of each story, including my thoughts. Mastectomy Scars ... A young girl returns from school to find her mother floating in the tub. Really sad and disturbing. 2 stars Body of Christ ... A young girl's mother is taken off life support. A little boy's father is the victim of suicide by police, right in front of him. Not sure how to describe how I feel about this one. Disquiet, disgust, and reading it felt sacrilegious. After my dislike of the first, this one almost made me stop reading the whole book. 0 stars The Last Bug-Chaser ... An alien race sent to make humans immune from viruses is taken over by the big pharmaceutical companies. This was interesting. 3 stars Mask of Sanity ... A psychiatrist who has had 3 patients commit suicide in one week starts doubting his own sanity. Twisted. Quite good. 4 stars Tattooed All in Black ... A wife dies of cancer, but her husband does not handle this well. Interesting. 3 stars The Burdens of the Father ... In a world where forests were eliminated, and clean air a thing of the past, a young man looks forward to the birth of his son. This was good. 3 stars Howling from The Gallows ... Trying to help a patient, a man turns into the monster that she has become. This was great! 5 stars Met My Old Lover in the Grocery Store ... A man on the brink of suicide and murder, runs into the love of his life on Christmas Eve. Entertaining! 4 stars First, I have to say that I loved the introduction to this book, which explained how the author came up with the title, and his experience with suicide in his job, and therapy in general. Overall, this was not a bad group of short stories, although the start had me doubting. Somewhat depressing, these stories show the depth of human emotion. They are all very graphic, and very dark, but the author can write very well. This is the first I have read from this author, but I won't be afraid to pick up anything else he has written. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and his contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 21, 2021
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Feb 21, 2022
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Dec 01, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| B08KQ1Z155
| 4.28
| 9,825
| Dec 07, 2021
| Dec 07, 2021
|
really liked it
| Darkness Falls by Robert Bryndza is the 3rd in the PI Kate Marshall series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, and of course Darkness Falls by Robert Bryndza is the 3rd in the PI Kate Marshall series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Thomas & Mercer, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Kate Marshall lost her career, reputation, friends, and almost her life when, as a plain-clothes detective, she unmasked the Nine Elms Serial Killer, her boss and lover. Pregnant with his child, Kate suffered. She turned to alcohol, and almost lost her son, but her parents stepped in to become Jake's legal guardian when he was six. She is now sober, and back in his life. She is lecturing in criminology at a small university, and occasionally doing some PI work, with help from her teaching assistant Tristan Harper. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Kate's friend Myra past away, leaving Kate the trailer park and her shop, with the stipulation that Kate must give up her job, and devote herself totally to being a Private Investigator. She and Tristan are now partners in the PI business, but he is still working part-time at the university until things take off. Fortunately, Jake is back from university and can look after the trailer park for the summer. When Bev, the mother of journalist Joanna Duncan hires Kate to find her daughter, it is the first big case in their new PI agency. Unfortunately, Joanna has been missing for twelve years, so it could be a difficult one. Thankfully Bev and Bill are willing to pay whatever it takes. Kate and Tristan follow the case files, talking to the same people that had been interviewed so long ago. They look into the stories that Joanna had been working on, and discover some interesting information, but when Kate finds the names of two young men who had also vanished, she has a new lead. It appears there may be a serial killer out there. My Opinions: This series, and it's characters are gaining strength, although I wish the author would bring back his Erika Foster series. Thankfully, Kate's imprisoned ex-husband had no real part to play in this book. I had been afraid he may end up being a bigger part in this series, and was glad that he was left behind so that the real mystery was center stage. And it was a real mystery, with a number of twists and turns. I really like Kate and Tristan, and even Jake is growing on me, although I'm not sure that I liked his recommendation at one point in the book. I felt it really was an exploitation of a bad situation, no matter the need. The writing was excellent and the pace was fast. I liked how the story was told from different perspectives, including that of the killer. Bryndza has done it again! Overall, it was a fast, entertaining read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and his contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 26, 2021
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Nov 28, 2021
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Nov 22, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||||
| 1800193351
| 9781800193352
| B09CH7LYGF
| 4.55
| 1,876
| Nov 23, 2021
| Nov 23, 2021
|
really liked it
| Fallen Angel by D.K. Hood is the 13th in the Detectives Kane and Alton series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course t Fallen Angel by D.K. Hood is the 13th in the Detectives Kane and Alton series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Former DEA, Jenna Alton is now the Sheriff in Black Rock Falls, Montana. Her past is a secret. Deputy David Kane's background is also a secret. He was a Special Forces sharpshooter, and a bodyguard to the President. Then there is Forensic Scientist Shane Wolfe, who is not only a Medical Examiner with amazing computer skills, he used to be Kane’s handler. So, with a few other deputies, Jenna has a good team to handle crime in the small Black Rock Falls town, which seems to have more murders than a small town should. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Jenna and the team have been called to Glacial Heights Ski Resort on the outskirts of town. There is a crime-book convention going on, and the resort is booked for two weeks with authors, publishers, and readers. One of the literary agents has been reported missing, and they find her body trapped beneath the frozen lake. The team decides to keep the murder quiet, and soon the crime-book enthusiasts start talking about the missing woman as a game. They think that it is actually a crime mystery set up by the organizers. So the guests are not taking this quite as seriously as the police, or perhaps as seriously as they should. Soon there is another murder. With over 200 potential murderers, narrowing the suspects down is quite the chore. At least with the roads closed due to blizzard conditions, nobody can leave. Unfortunately, that also means they have a murderer on the loose. Meanwhile, the relationship between Jenna and Dave has improved, and they are now living together, but this case may prove to be too much. My Opinions: There are so many things I dislike about this series. The female Sheriff usually playing second fiddle to her male second in command. The FBI always being called in because they can't handle the job. (I've been complaining about those two things in most of my reviews of past books, and was happy to see Jenna finally voice those same views in her fight with Kane). Moving on....Carter and Wolfe's daughter Emily..... I don't particularly like either of them although Emily really annoyed me in this one -- she's a little over-bearing and full of herself. As well, sometimes the writing leaves a lot to be desired. For example, Wolfe calls Julie a magnet for killers, and in the next chapter the killer calls her a magnet as well. It's just a bit much. So, all these complaints, and yet I am still reading this series. Why? Because the plots can't be beat. This one in particular was great! Although I had a good idea as to the identity of the killer, the process and techniques the author used to get the reader to the conclusion were very well done. There were enough red herrings, and side stories to keep me interested. Again, all my grievances seem to fly out the window, because it ended up being another fast and entertaining read. And....I will continue to read this series. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 13, 2021
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Nov 18, 2021
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Nov 18, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| B08Y8CWBSX
| 3.37
| 1,793
| Dec 07, 2021
| Dec 07, 2021
|
really liked it
| The Hawthorne School by Sylvie Perry is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books, and of course the au The Hawthorne School by Sylvie Perry is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Claudia Morgan is a single mother who has been struggling with her 4-year old son Henry. He is a handful, both at home, and at pre-school. Their first sight of The Hawthorne School has them both entranced, and Claudia realizes she will do anything to get Henry into this exclusive school. During the interview, the headmistress, Zelma, agrees that Henry is an extraordinary child, and is a perfect fit for their curriculum and that a normal school would never be able to understand Henry's special needs. The school has everything Claudia every dreamt of for her child. He would get to play outside, learn music, art, and nature. The school is big on healthy eating and provides lunch, including juices they create from their own garden. Both Claudia and Henry are hooked. Zelma even allows Claudia to volunteer to help cover the cost of tuition. It isn't long before most of Henry's behavioural issues disappear. Claudia does, however, start wondering about some of the strange things occurring at the school. The fact that the children are out in the woods most of the day, and allowed to do whatever they want. There seems to be a strange bond building between Henry and his teacher, yet Claudia is not allowed to sit in his class. She starts to worry about Henry's safety in the woods. But whenever she questions something, she is admonished and soon all her concerns are brushed off. Even when Claudia starts to wonder if she made a poor decision in bringing her child to The Hawthorne School, she doubts herself. Is it really a revolutionary forward-thinking school, or is it a cult? Can she leave, or does she even want to? But now, all her power seems to have left her. My Opinions: I found this book really disturbing as I watched a young mother lose control of her child to the institution she trusted to teach him. The book is about manipulation and power, about mind control and brain-washing, about idolization. It is about a mother who wants everything for her child, and jumping at a chance that seems to be too good to be true. It is about being gullible, being naïve , and needing a place to belong. It is about becoming powerless, becoming dependent, and becoming addicted to someone else's thoughts and charisma. It is about a cult-like community. At times I felt really uncomfortable reading this book. I couldn't wait for Claudia to wise-up. Although it was a quite predictable read, the author really made me feel Claudia's bewilderment, her anxiety, her fears, her vulnerability. Overall, it was a creepy, atmospheric read. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 2021
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Dec 03, 2021
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Nov 17, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||||
| 1789319773
| 9781789319774
| B09GB1Y9TT
| 4.40
| 3,632
| Dec 02, 2021
| Dec 02, 2021
|
really liked it
|
3.5 stars Last Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the fifth in the Detective Rachel King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, an 3.5 stars Last Victim by Helen H. Durrant is the fifth in the Detective Rachel King series. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Joffe Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) DCI Rachel King is with the serious crime squad for east Manchester. Her team consists of: DS Elwyn Pryce, her long-time colleague and friend; DC Jonny Farrell, whose father is disappointed in his career choice; and DC Amy Metcalfe, who is a bit unreliable. Her boss is Mark Kenton. Rachel has two daughters from her ex-husband, and a new baby from Jed McAteer, a man with a criminal past, but the love of her life. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Just back from maternity leave, Rachel's first case is the kidnapping of a two-month old baby. The parents went out for dinner and left him with the baby-sitting agency that they always use, but when they got home, both were missing. The father of the baby is Scott Agnew, an "alleged" crime boss of a ring called the Trio. Then the elderly mother of a second Trio mob boss disappears. Word on the street is that someone new wants to take over the territory and that the Trio will be wiped out. Unfortunately, the prime suspect is none other than Jed, Rachel's partner. Speaking of Jed and Rachel....living together is not quite as perfect as Rachel had hoped. Although they were going to share responsibilities, things are not going as planned. Between the stress of being a working mother to a newborn, having a "reformed" criminal for a partner, and a job that is anything but stress-free, Rachel is struggling. My Opinions: As always, this was a fast-paced and easy read. The suspects were plentiful, and some of the characters highly entertaining. The plot twisted repeatedly, and the possible identity of the perpetrator changed just as fast. In past reviews, I have never held back my dislike of the relationship between Rachel and Jed, and this certainly hasn't changed. However, I don't think we've learned all about the current situation, and I am fairly certain there is a lot more to come. So overall, other than the Rachel & Jed issue, this book had a really good plot. I love that appendix of British slang that the author adds to the end of every book, but I will reiterate....I wish the words were used in the foot-note format. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and her contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 15, 2021
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Dec 2021
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Nov 17, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1803140941
| 9781803140940
| B09CPV4CRF
| 4.39
| 2,645
| Dec 01, 2021
| Dec 01, 2021
|
really liked it
| The Girl in the Ground by Stacy Green is the fourth in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt series....and worth the read! First, let me thank NetGalley, the publis The Girl in the Ground by Stacy Green is the fourth in the FBI Agent Nikki Hunt series....and worth the read! First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Bookouture, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Background: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) Nikki Hunt is an FBI Agent whose parents were murdered when she was young. She helped put away Mark Todd for their murder, but 20 years later, discovered he was innocent, and fought for his release. She is now dating Rory, Mark's younger brother. Family dynamics are awkward. She has a young daughter (Lacey), and her ex-husband (Tyler) was recently murdered. Nikki heads the BAU unit based out of St. Paul Minnesota. Her team consists of Crime Scene Analyst Courtney Hart and Agent Liam Wilson. Her boss is Victor Hernandez. Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Nikki is seeing a therapist, trying to rid herself of the guilt she feels for her ex-husband being killed. Fortunately, her 5-year old daughter Lacey is recovering from her kidnapping with the help of her boyfriend Rory's parents. They have really stepped up, and although they still blame Nikki for the 20 year incarceration of their son Mark, they are also thankful to her for proving his innocence. Rory has just been awarded a contract for a big construction project, but as they were digging, they found a skeleton of a woman in a leather chest. She had a silver locket around her neck, and she was pregnant. Much to Nikki's dismay, Rory is sure that the remains are that of his high school girl-friend, Becky. She went missing 24 years ago, and it looks like Rory was the last to see her alive. Rory's fear of being railroaded by the police is understood, since his brother spent 20 years in jail due to a bad cop, but his attitude isn't helping his case. Nikki will have to stay away from the case. Meanwhile, an old FBI acquaintance asks for Nikki's help with a human trafficking ring involving young pregnant women. But Nikki is not a real fan of Justin Nash, and her instincts may prove correct. Then a young pregnant woman goes missing, and Nikki has her hands full trying to find the surrogate mother before she is hurt. The "parents" of the soon-to-be baby boy are frantic with worry. But everyone seems to be keeping secrets. My Opinions: These books keep getting better. My only complaint would be that there always seems to be a problem around Nikki and her extended family. Hopefully that is over. Nikki is a wonderful, caring, and very bright character. She is determined and resourceful, and makes a wonderful lead character. I wasn't a fan of Rory in this book, as his attitude was very childish, and his grief after 24 years for his missing teenaged girlfriend seemed a little over the top. I did, however, earn some respect for his parents. Even Lacey's character is good (although I'm not usually a fan of children in mystery books). As always, Liam, Courtney and their boss were equally inspiring. The plot was really fast-paced, and with enough twists and turns to keep you turning the pages. There was really quite a lot going on, but it all concluded nicely. Overall, a good, fast, and easy read, and I'll definitely watch for the next in the series. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 13, 2021
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Nov 15, 2021
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Nov 17, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 0316454362
| 9780316454360
| B08Y8LWRH6
| 4.21
| 1,270
| Oct 12, 2021
| Oct 12, 2021
|
it was amazing
| 4.5 stars The Quicksilver Court by Melissa Caruso is the second in the fantasy/sci-fi Rooks and Ruin Trilogy. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publish 4.5 stars The Quicksilver Court by Melissa Caruso is the second in the fantasy/sci-fi Rooks and Ruin Trilogy. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Orbit Books (and in particular Angela Man) and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Series Information: (Warning – May contain spoilers from previous books) In a world where the magical and non-magical people live together, demons are now roaming the earth due to Ryxander inadvertently unsealing the Obsidian Tower. Her magic is "broken", but she has recently discovered that a "jess" on her arm will allow her to touch other people without killing them. Her Grandmother is now not only a Witch Lord (Lady of Owls), but the Demon of Discord, and has kicked Ryx out of Gloamingard, the only home Ryx has ever known. Ryx has joined the agents of the Rookery. Although the Rookery usually deal with accidents caused by old magical artifacts, they are now dealing with the demons. Among her new friends are Ashe, Kessa, Bastian, and Foxglove. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) Ryx is trying to figure out how to save the domain of Morgrain, and of course Gloamingard. She also wants to save her grandmother who is now fused with a demon. While the Rookery stands with her, their main job is to try to find a way to defeat the demon within her grandmother. Unfortunately, the Serene Empire has decided not to help Morgrain, and instead plans to attack, and to kill Ryx's grandmother. Meanwhile, there is chaos on other domains as well. Raverra is having problems within it's Council and the Zenith society and their alliance with the Demon of Hunger (Aurelio). Eruvia is trying to get a Conclave together but also having problems. When it is learned that a powerful magic weapon is out there, everyone is on the hunt. The Rookery heads to the Summer Palace, where they encounter more trouble than they anticipated. Severin, heir to the Shrike Lord, rather unwillingly joins them in their search. They will all have to face their fears, as more than just the Demon of Hunger awaits. My Opinions: Well, the world and character building that the author created in the previous book continues in this one. It is a complex world, with many characters, some human, some demonic, and then there are the beasts. Although done very well, it is still a complicated scenario, and initially difficult to keep track of who is in which domain, or empire, or world....okay, I'm being a little facetious, but between the "Council of Nines", the "Conclave", the Witch Lords, the Empires....sometimes it was a little much. As well, the length of this book is a little off-putting, but that being said, there isn't a word I would want to strike! One of the main topics of the book delved into looking inside yourself, to find the true you. It is about accepting what you find, both the good and the bad. It is also accepting the faults of others, and letting the past go. As well, it looked at secrets that are kept, and that often they are kept to protect someone. Sometimes not. I really like the characters (even some of the demons). They all have depth, and even those that are not human are intriguing. I think Whisper may be my favorite next to Ryx, but both Severin and Bastian are close thirds. I can't wait for the next book in this trilogy! For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, author information and a favorite quotation or two from the book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Oct 31, 2021
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Jan 10, 2022
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Nov 03, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| B09K29LZPP
| 3.63
| 449
| unknown
| Oct 20, 2021
|
really liked it
| The House of Tongues by James Dashner is a horror novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Riverdale Avenue Books (Afraid) and of course the The House of Tongues by James Dashner is a horror novel. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Riverdale Avenue Books (Afraid) and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) David Player is 44 years old, and his wife passed away two years ago. He is raising his four children on his own. Although three of them are adopted, they are a very close family. Deciding to visit his parents may be the worst mistake he has made in ages. What starts out as an exciting family trip, turns into the vacation from hell. For his memories of events which occurred when he was 16 have left him, but when a stranger knocks on the door, the flood gates start to open. The son of a notorious serial killer has come to call, and he intends to make sure that David and his family play his game. Soon David will remember everything, and will have to fight to protect his family from a curse that has been passed down for 200 years. It will eventually lead to an old tower in the woods, a place that David had not thought of in many years. The House of Tongues. My Opinions: I believe this is the first adult-based novel from this author, although he has had a lot of success with his Y/A Maze-Runner series (which I also enjoyed). This was very good. It held my interest from start to finish, as it was not just horror, but an entertaining mystery woven in. The story is told through David's eyes only, and in two time-lines, one when David is 16, and one when he is 44. The two time-lines somewhat mimic each other. Yes, there was blood and gore, and yes, it was a little unbelievable, but....it is a horror novel, after all. I loved the plot, and it was a fast and easy read. I also loved the characters. David, Andrea, and the kids were all likeable, and relatable. The bad guys (even the one that wasn't supposed to be), were all clearly defined. There were no real surprises there. James Dashner has just proven he can write adult-based books as well as his best-selling YA books. For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, author contact information and a favorite quotation or two from the book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Oct 29, 2021
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Dec 29, 2021
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Nov 03, 2021
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||||
| 1643852973
| 9781643852973
| 1643852973
| 3.67
| 5,018
| Nov 09, 2021
| Nov 09, 2021
|
it was amazing
| 4.5 stars The Hidden by Melanie Golding is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books, and of course the 4.5 stars The Hidden by Melanie Golding is a psychological thriller. First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books, and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions) DS Joana Harper is called to investigate the assault on Gregor Franks, who was found badly bludgeoned and left for dead in his apartment bath. He may not survive. Gregor's apartment brings more questions, as they discovered a crib and children's toys, but neighbours insist he lived alone. Ruby has been quietly falling for Gregor. She has been watching his apartment, from her own apartment window across the way. One day she sees another woman and a child in the window, and eventually meets Constance, the mentally troubled wife of Gregor, and their daughter Leonie. Constance insists that Gregor has hidden her sealskin from her, and without it she cannot return to her people, the mythological Selkies. Ruby realizes that not all is as it seems, but she is very worried bout Leonie. She agrees to help Constance escape. One evening in December, Constance leaves Leonie outside a shop, and Ruby "rescues" her. Meanwhile, Joana, investigating Gregor's beating, spies Ruby on a CCTV camera with Leonie, and knows trouble is brewing. Ruby is her daughter. If it becomes a choice between her job and her daughter, Ruby will win. My Opinions: First, this isn't being touted as a series, but DS Joana Harper plays a major role in this book, and she was in this author's last book, Little Darlings. I agree, they don't have to be read in order. This book is about motherhood, and family dynamics. How far a mother will go to protect her daughter, or herself, and that sometimes the choices aren't clear. The story is told from the perspectives of Joana, Ruby, and "The Injured Man", and in two timelines. It is all very straight-forward. This book mixes mystery and folklore in such a way that the reader starts second-guessing themselves -- well I did. I loved the legend of the Selkies (seal people). The author wove the story in and out of the legend, and the whole thing was riveting. Absolutely loved this book (although it was a little long). For a more complete review of this book and others (including my reason for choosing to read this, author information and a favorite quotation or two from this book), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/ ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 2021
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Nov 06, 2021
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Oct 30, 2021
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Hardcover
|
Kat (Katlovesbooks)
>
Books:
reviewed-in-2021
(153)
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my rating |
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| 4.13
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liked it
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Apr 03, 2021
not set
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Sep 26, 2024
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| 4.10
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it was amazing
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Apr 04, 2021
not set
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Sep 26, 2024
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| 4.22
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liked it
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Jun 25, 2021
not set
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Sep 20, 2024
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| 4.33
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really liked it
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May 30, 2021
not set
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Aug 01, 2024
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| 4.39
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it was amazing
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Jul 21, 2023
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Jul 03, 2023
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| 4.48
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really liked it
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Dec 31, 2021
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Dec 31, 2021
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| 4.36
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it was amazing
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Dec 27, 2021
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Dec 27, 2021
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| 3.56
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really liked it
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Dec 21, 2021
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Dec 21, 2021
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| 4.27
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really liked it
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Feb 07, 2022
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Dec 07, 2021
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| 4.38
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really liked it
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Dec 15, 2021
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Dec 05, 2021
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| 3.70
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really liked it
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Dec 09, 2021
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Dec 01, 2021
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| 3.34
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really liked it
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Feb 21, 2022
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Dec 01, 2021
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| 4.28
|
really liked it
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Nov 28, 2021
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Nov 22, 2021
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| 4.55
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really liked it
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Nov 18, 2021
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Nov 18, 2021
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| 3.37
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really liked it
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Dec 03, 2021
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Nov 17, 2021
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| 4.40
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really liked it
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Dec 2021
|
Nov 17, 2021
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| 4.39
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really liked it
|
Nov 15, 2021
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Nov 17, 2021
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| 4.21
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it was amazing
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Jan 10, 2022
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Nov 03, 2021
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| 3.63
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really liked it
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Dec 29, 2021
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Nov 03, 2021
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| 3.67
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it was amazing
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Nov 06, 2021
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Oct 30, 2021
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