My Book Reviews

Category: Murder Mystery

  • Dissection by Cristina LePort

    Dissection by Cristina LePort

     

    Dissection

    Dissection by Cristina LePort

    Release: September 20, 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Bancroft Press
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible

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    DISSECTION is the suspense-filled story of DC heart surgeon Dr. Steven Leeds, who becomes suddenly besieged by a number of complicated heart attack and stroke cases, all caused by dissection, a rare medical condition. Complicating the mystery is the fact that each of the victims had received cards announcing: “Your heart attack/stroke will arrive within one hour!” – just before their attack.

    Private detective Kirk Miner and FBI agent Jack Mulville investigate, and immediately suspect Dr. Leeds’ former lover, Dr. Silvana Moretti, a brilliant research scientist, who harbors a grudge against all the victims. 

    When prominent people in the U.S. government begin to receive the same threatening cards and experience the same deadly cardiac emergencies, it falls to an unlikely team of three: Miner, a headstrong FBI agent; Mulville, the gifted private investigator; and Dr. Leeds, the conflicted heart surgeon―to find the real perpetrators and foil the catastrophic plot before it’s too late. 

    Says Dr. LePort, “At medical school, I specialized in Internal Medicine, and had been practicing for over 17 years when, one day, while attempting to get into a Cardiology fellowship, I began listening to Ayn Rand’s lectures   The Art of Fiction. I was inspired to write a novel and became addicted to the feeling of entering a world where I could make anything happen.”

    DISSECTION is a taut thriller that combines cutting-edge medical technology with complex characters, set against a believable backdrop of medical science informed by Dr. LePort’s long career as a cardiologist.

    About the Author:

    Dr. Cristina LePort was born in Bologna, Italy. She attended medical school at the University of Bologna and then completed her medical training at Long Island College Hospital in Brooklyn and at the University of California, Los Angeles. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Diseases and has been practicing medicine for more than thirty years. Cristina is also the Chief Medical Officer and co-founder of Genescient, a biotech company devoted to genetic research on aging and the amelioration of chronic diseases. Medicine and fiction are her twin passions, and she is absolutely thrilled to be able to share her medical thrillers with the world.

    LePort currently resides in Orange County, California, with her husband Peter LePort, a general surgeon. They have three children and three grandchildren.

    .Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

    Dissection Review:

    “Dissection” is a gripping medical thriller (the first one I have probably read in this combo), and it was an exciting roller coaster ride.

    I cannot believe this is the author’s debut because it is so good! It is along the same lines as John Grisham or James Patterson. The story starts on a solid note, and halfway into the plot, it gets more gripping and shocking with twists and turns. Moreover, I loved the medical theme behind the story. I have never read a book where the thriller sets on a medical condition, and the author also makes it so tech-savvy and innovative. The entire premise is so polished and intelligent that you feel that something like this could happen in reality. As the story progresses, you see how it connects to a more significant threat, where the stakes a higher. The author also paces the story so well, where almost every chapter has something shocking happening.

    Moreover, I loved the character growth and how my opinion of the people changed over the plot. For instance, I wouldn’t say I liked Mulville because he is harsh towards others. But he soon turned out to be my favorite character, and I loved his rapport with Kirk. Similarly, Kirk and Steve also added nicely to the plot. The author also doesn’t sidetrack the story by focusing n the romance between Steve and Silvana. Even Bloom is a character that fascinated me even though she only makes a brief appearance. I hope the author writes this as a series, as I would love to see the three core characters return for another action-packed adventure.

    Overall, “Dissection” is one of the best debut thrillers this year, and I encourage all to pick up this one.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Dissection

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Dissection by Cristina LePort Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours. 

     

     

  • Killing Kindness by Lisa Sell

    Killing Kindness by Lisa Sell

    Killing Kindness

    Killing Kindness by Lisa Sell

    Release: 15th September 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Red Dragon Publishing
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    Summer 1992: The Six, a group of teenagers, met in a disused mill every night. They thought they were invincible until Simon, a kind young man, disappeared.

    Summer 2021: The Six – minus Simon – gather at the renovated mill for his memorial. The reunion begins and a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues. The body count rises. Someone is killing kindness.

    It’s cruel to be kind…

    About the Author:

    Lisa Sell is a thriller, crime, and mystery author. She is an avid reader with a to-be-read tower rather than a pile.

    Music rocks Lisa’s world too, particularly a good eighties tune. If lost, you’ll find her in a DeLorean, headed for her favorite decade.

    Lisa’s cats try to help her write but often fail. The furry pests demand attention and desk space. Lisa is currently applying for cat wrangling to be recognized as an Olympic sport.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Killing Kindness Review:

    “Killing Kindness” is a thrilling murder mystery that kept me guessing what was happening, and I loved how the author executed it.

    Firstly, I enjoyed the way the author told the story. Each chapter is short yet throws the punch effectively in terms of plot progression. We have a large cast of characters, and while it might take a few pages for you to get the hang of them all, you feel like you are part of the group once the plot absorbs you. Also, I loved how the story randomly goes between the past and present, where you see incidents from the 90s, then the 00s, and then a few years ago to the present, in no order. As the story progresses, you see the kill count increase and wonder who is behind it. The author connected all the plots nicely and even looking back at the events, it made sense.

    Moreover, each character stands out uniquely yet has an air of mystery. For instance, Simon, in the flashbacks, appears like a kind chap, but you sense there is a dark side to him. Similarly, Joe sometimes got on my nerves, but I still felt terrible for him. The author made me feel various emotions for each character, and it was exciting to see their backstory and what they were hiding. True, there were a few lackluster characters, in my opinion, like Erin and even Stevie, but it didn’t make the story any less thrilling. My favorite characters, perhaps, were Charlotte, Dylan, and the Witch. These people were just a big question mark, and I wondered how everything connected to the arc.

    If you love murder mystery whodunit thrillers that keep you guessing, check out “Killing Kindness by Lisa Sell”!

     

    Book Tour Schedule

    Killing Kindness

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Killing Kindness by Lisa Sell Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.

     

     

  • A Cat On The Case by Clea Simon

    A Cat On The Case by Clea Simon

    A Cat on the Case

    A Cat on the Case (Witch Cats of Cambridge #3) by Clea Simon

    Release: February 8, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Polis Books
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    When a panicked stranger shows up at Charm and Cherish seeking advice , Becca Colwin knows it’s her duty to help. The aspiring witch detective understands how challenging the city can be for a young woman alone, especially in winter in New England winter tightens its frigid grip. Plus, with her apartment building going condo, Becca needs all the clients she can get in case she has to find a new home for herself and her three cats.

    But when that stranger disappears, leaving behind her heirloom violin, the case grows complicated. And the discovery of a dead body right next door puts Becca in danger from the law. And she may be a murderer as well. Although Becca’s cats don’t want her to get any more involved, they know their person won’t abandon the young musician who seems likely to be the suspect in the crime. The three littermates – bossy Harriet, manipulative Laurel, and gentle Clara, the calico baby of the litter – may squabble like all sisters. But each of the magical cats must use her particular skill if they’re going to keep Becca safe. Together the three felines must untangle a web of deceit and intrigue complicated by the history they share with the person they are sworn to protect.

    About the Author:

    Before turning to a life of crime (fiction), Clea Simon was a journalist. Starting as a rock critic, she ended up writing about books and other arts. A native of New York, she came to Massachusetts to attend Harvard University, from which she graduated with high honors, and never left.

    The author of three nonfiction books and seven mysteries, she lives with her husband, the writer Jon S. Garelick, and their cat, Musetta. She is the author of the Witch Cats of Cambridge mysteries from Polis Books: A Spell of Murder, An Incantation of Cats, and A Cat on the Case. 

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    A Cat On The Case Review:

    “A Cat on the Case” is an excellent addition to the series and perhaps my favorite book in the series.

    This book is probably the best one in the series, mainly because of the backstory of the cats. I was glued to the pages as Clara had dreams that gave her a glimpse of their past lives. The author made the backstory so beautiful and majestic that the book was extra special. Even the small moments, like when Clara notices her powers and how they are unique and can do better, were memorable.

    Even the mystery was intriguing as Becca gets tangled with a new case dealing with a murdered tenant and a violin with a history. We see less Maddy in this book than in the previous, which I was sad about, but the story was never dull. Instead, the author introduces us to a new character, Ruby. Ruby is also a complex character that comes as a question mark for most of the book. There were times when I sided with Maddy and didn’t trust her, but also times when I felt like Becca and wanted to help her.

    Similarly, I also liked how Elizabeth, Margaret, Marcia, and Ande appear in the previous books. We also get some snarky new characters like Deborah, who spices up the tale. The author also takes a step by at times and gets casual as we see the cats go to the vet for a checkup, which I thought was cute.

    Overall, “A Cat on the Case” is a great addition, and I hope the author doesn’t end this with a trilogy. I would love to revisit Becca at “Charm and Cherish” for more adventures.

    Book Tour Schedule:

    A Cat on the Case

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on A Cat on the Case (Witch Cats of Cambridge #3) by Clea Simon Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

    Geaux Get Lit-April 4th
    Rajivs Reviews-April 7th
    Miss W Book Reviews-April 7th
    Books Love And Understanding-April 9th
    Chill Jill And Read-April 11th
    Books and Coffee MX-April 13th
    Subakka Bookstuff-April 14th
    Bookish Heidi-April 15th

  • An Incantation of Cats by Clea Simon

    An Incantation of Cats by Clea Simon

    An Incantation of Cats

    An Incantation of Cats (Witch Cats of Cambridge #2) by Clea Simon

    Release: January 14th, 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Polis Books
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    The new novel in Clea Simon’s spellbinding Witch Cats of Cambridge series! When two new clients seek Becca’s professional services, the fledgling witch detective is overjoyed. Finally, she can use her skills to help her magical community. But as the young witch finds the new cases intertwining, things grow more complicated. Becca’s three cats – the ones with the real power – can smell something wrong with these clients. But not even Clara, the calico, knows what to do when a man ends up dead and a powerful and poisonous root appears – and disappears – in the case.

    To make matters worse, Clara and her littermates are feuding – and she can’t tell them about an unsettling interaction she’s had with one of the client’s sisters. Is it possible that some humans may have the same powers as the magical felines? What does that mean for Clara’s beloved Becca – and for the potent poison that has already taken one person’s life? In this second Witch Cats of Cambridge mystery, Clara and her sisters must learn to work together if they are to save the person they all love. 

    About the Author:

    Before turning to a life of crime (fiction), Clea Simon was a journalist. Starting as a rock critic, she ended up writing about books and other arts. A native of New York, she came to Massachusetts to attend Harvard University, from which she graduated with high honors, and never left.

    The author of three nonfiction books and seven mysteries, she lives with her husband, the writer Jon S. Garelick, and their cat, Musetta. She is the author of the Witch Cats of Cambridge mysteries from Polis Books: A Spell of Murder, An Incantation of Cats, and A Cat on the Case.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    An Incantation of Cats Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “An Incantation of Cats” is a lovely continuation to the “Witch Cats of Cambridge” series that was better than its predecessor in some ways.

    The highlight for me in his book was Becca and Clara. I thought the author matured both of them so well from the first book. I saw Becca as solid and confident in the tale, where she takes charge of the case and doesn’t give up. She also comforts Maddy in some scenes when it was the other way around earlier. Similarly, I loved the relationship between Clara, Laurel, and Harriet. The three of them look for each other, and I enjoyed how the author added more layers and emotions to the two, not making Clara the spotlight. Maddy is excellent, and I adored how she got herself involved in the investigations. Similarly, Gaia and Elizabeth were two characters who I found fascinating. The author did a fantastic job with the character’s emotions, and I thought I was more connected to them.

    However, I felt some aspects were missing in the story. For one thing, I wanted to see characters like Nathan from the first book, which surprisingly did not happen. Moreover, I wanted more background on the ancestry plot that the author builds up in the first book, but there was not much progress as I would have liked. Also, since there were only a small set of characters, the suspect turned out to be someone I expected, so it was not as surprising as in the first book.

    Nevertheless, ” An Incantation of Cats” is an entertaining continuation of the series, and I cannot wait to read the next book!

    Book Tour Schedule:

    A Cat on the Case

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on An Incantation of Cats (Witch Cats of Cambridge #2) by Clea Simon Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

    Geaux Get Lit-April 4th
    Rajivs Reviews-April 7th
    Miss W Book Reviews-April 7th
    Books Love And Understanding-April 9th
    Chill Jill And Read-April 11th
    Books and Coffee MX-April 13th
    Subakka Bookstuff-April 14th
    Bookish Heidi-April 15th

  • A Spell of Murder by Clea Simon

    A Spell of Murder by Clea Simon

    A Spell of Murder

    A Spell of Murder (Witch Cats of Cambridge #1) by Clea Simon

    Release: November 26, 2019
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Polis Books
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    “It’s Harriet’s fault. It’s always her fault, not that she’ll ever admit it.” So begins A Spell of Murder: A Witch Cats of Cambridge mystery, the first in a new cozy series that mixes feline fiction with a touch of the paranormal, and a little romance as well.

    Becca, newly single and newly unemployed, wants to believe she has psychic powers. With nothing but time – and a desire for empowerment – she’s studying to become a witch. What she doesn’t know is that her three cats – Harriet, Laurel, and Clara – are the ones with the real power. And when Harriet – “a cream-colored longhair with more fur than commonsense” – conjures a pillow for her own comfort, Becca believes her spells are finally working. Could that be why Trent, the coven’s devilishly handsome leader, has been showing her special attention? Or why Suzanne, a longtime coven member, draws her aside to share a secret – a confidence that may lead to murder?

    About the Author:

    Before turning to a life of crime (fiction), Clea Simon was a journalist. Starting as a rock critic, she ended up writing about books and other arts. A native of New York, she came to Massachusetts to attend Harvard University, from which she graduated with high honors, and never left.

    The author of three nonfiction books and seven mysteries, she lives with her husband, the writer Jon S. Garelick, and their cat, Musetta. She is the author of the Witch Cats of Cambridge mysteries from Polis Books: A Spell of Murder, An Incantation of Cats, and A Cat on the Case. 

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    A Spell of Murder Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    I have started reading this series from the first book, and let me say, “A Spell of Murder” is such a cute, cozy mystery and a lovely start to the series.

    Firstly, let me say the cast of characters was quirky and adorable. As soon as the story begins, Becca finds herself amidst a murder mystery with the sudden death of one coven member. Becca is friendly in the lead, but she is not perfect and has some flaws. However, she has a beautiful friend in Maddy, one of my favorite characters in the book. It was interesting to see how Becca stepped out of her shell and interrogated various members to solve the case. Moreover, I felt that the author also added a touch of romance well, where we see Becca having feelings for Nathan and Trent.

    The author also adds the mystery nicely. There are quite a few suspects from the coven, and each of them is unique, so you wonder who could be behind it. Moreover, the person turned out to be someone I did not expect, making the story fun.

    Perhaps the only downside to the tale is how I wish the author had involved Clara to be involved with the case. For most of the book, it felt as though Clara was following Becca on the investigation and just giving an update to Laurel and Harriet later. Also, as much as I liked Laurel and Harriet’s humor, there did not add any value, which was disappointing at times.

    Overall, “A Spell of Murder” is a fun story that was charming and had an exciting plot, and I liked how the author executed it.

    Book Tour Schedule

    A Cat on the Case

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on A Spell of Murder (Witch Cats of Cambridge #1) by Clea Simon Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

    Geaux Get Lit-April 4th
    Rajivs Reviews-April 7th
    Miss W Book Reviews-April 7th
    Books Love And Understanding-April 9th
    Chill Jill And Read-April 11th
    Books and Coffee MX-April 13th
    Subakka Bookstuff-April 14th
    Bookish Heidi-April 15th

  • Grace Among Thieves by Kari Bovee

    Grace Among Thieves by Kari Bovee

    Grace Among Thieves

    Grace Among Thieves by Kari Bovee

    Release: February 15th, 2022 
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Bosque Publishing
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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    A priceless heirloom is worth its weight in life. Can she crack the case before she becomes a killer’s trophy?

    Hollywood, 1924. Grace Michelle’s professional star has risen. Now a successful costumier for a major studio, the ambitious woman has just about everything she wants. But when the father she thought was dead reaches out to reconnect, the talented designer doesn’t know what to think… especially after his new wife is kidnapped.

     Discovering her dad is mixed up with a stolen Russian artifact, Grace puts her sleuthing skills to work to rescue the abducted lady. But with a famous actress murdered in connection with the missing values and a man she put away stalking her for revenge, the frazzled amateur detective fears getting to the bottom of this crime will leave her six feet under.

     Can she hunt down the treasure before it bankrupts the lives of everyone she loves?

     Grace Among Thieves is the nail-biting third book in the Grace Michelle Mystery historical series. If you like bright-but-beset heroines, breathtaking twists and turns, and the glamor of a lost age, then you’ll adore Kari Bovée’s riveting tale.

    About the Author:

    When she’s not on horse riding in  New Mexico or basking on white-sand beaches under the Hawaiian sun, Kari Bovée is escaping into the past. She then schemes murder and mayhem for her characters both real and imagined in her historical mystery novels.

     Bovée writes the award-winning Annie Oakley mystery series and the Grace Michelle mystery series. In 2020 she took the First Place in category for the Chanticleer International Clue Awards for her book Folly at the Fair. In 2019 she got NM/AZ Book Awards Hillerman Award for her novel Girl with a Gun. It also won First in Category in the International Chanticleer Murder & Mayhem Awards. It was also a finalist in the 2019 Next Generation Indie Awards. Her novel Grace in the Wings won First in Category for the 2019 International Chanticleer Chatelaine Awards. Peccadillo at the Palace won Grand Prize in the 2019 Goethe Awards.

     Bovée has worked as a technical writer for a Fortune 500 Company. She has written non-fiction for magazines and newsletters. Also she has worked in the education field as a teacher and educational consultant.

    Website | Bookbub | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Twitter

    Grace Among Thieves Review:

    Since the beginning, I have been following the “Grace Michelle” series, and “Grace Among Thieves” is a beautiful addition to the series.

    I adore the series because the author focuses on suspense and thriller and doesn’t convolute the plot with unnecessary details, like romance. While I loved Grace with Chet, the author doesn’t make them the center of attention in the series, which is one of the strong points. The series is mainly about Grace and how independently strong she is to solve the mystery. I love Grace in this new adventure, as she goes through a lot. She reunites with her estranged father and finds herself in another mystery as his wife goes missing.

    Moreover, we also see a personal side to Grace as she includes a new member of her family, Stevie. I adored Stevie and enjoyed the drama he brings to Grace’s life, particularly his fights with Daniel. It was interesting to see how Grace balanced her work, family, and mystery and felt the pressure to maintain that balance. The author also adds a slightly supernatural side to the tale, and I loved the moments when Grace connects with Sophia. Even Miss Lange was a treat and added s touch of mystical presence to the story. As the story unfolds, we see that there are parallel layers to the plot, and the author does a beautiful job of connecting them all. There are shocking twists and revelations, which I always enjoy, and made the story so much fun!

    I hope the author continues to write more books, and the series is not just a trilogy. Overall, from the Romanov Empire to escaped killers seeking revenge, “Grace Among Thieves” kept me entertained, and I finished it in one reading.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Grace Among Thieves

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Grace Among Thieves by Kari Bovee Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours. 

    Books Love And Understanding-April 4th
    Rajivs Reviews-April 5th
    Novels and Latte Book Club -April 7th
    Subakka Bookstuff-April 9th
    Geaux Get Lit-April 12th
    Books and Coffee MX-April 14th

  • You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus

    You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus

    You'll Be the Death of Me

    You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus

    Release: November 30th 2021 
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Delacorte Press
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at:  Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N , iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    Ivy, Mateo, and Cal used to be close. Now all they have in common is Carlton High and the beginning of a very bad day.

    Type A Ivy lost a student council election to the class clown, and now she has to face the school, humiliated. Heartthrob Mateo is burned out–he’s been working two jobs since his family’s business failed. And outsider Cal just got stood up…. again.

    So when Cal pulls into campus late for class and runs into Ivy and Mateo, it seems like the perfect opportunity to turn a bad day around. They’ll ditch and go into the city. Just the three of them, like old times. Except they’ve barely left the parking lot before they run out of things to say…

    Until they spot another Carlton High student skipping school–and follow him to the scene of his own murder. In one chance move, their day turns from dull to deadly. And it’s about to get worse.

    It turns out Ivy, Mateo, and Cal still have some things in common. They all have a connection to the dead kid. And they’re all hiding something.

    Now they’re all wondering–could it be that their chance reconnection wasn’t by chance after all?

    From the author of One of Us Is Lying comes a brand-new pulse-pounding thriller. It’s Ferris Bueller’s Day Off with murder when three old friends relive an epic ditch day, and it goes horribly–and fatally–wrong.

    About the Author:

    Karen M. McManus is a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling author of young adult thrillers. Her work, which includes the One of Us Is Lying series, Two Can Keep a Secret, The Cousins, and You’ll Be the Death of Me, has been translated into more than 40 languages worldwide. Karen lives in Massachusetts and holds a master’s degree in Journalism from Northeastern University, which she mostly uses to draft fake news stories for her novels.

    Website | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub 

    You’ll Be the Death of Me Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “You’ll Be the Death of Me” is the latest young adult mystery thriller by one of my favorite genre authors and was a gripping read.

    I enjoyed reading “The Cousins” last year and enjoyed it, so I had similar expectations for this one. “You’ll Be the Death of Me” again is a fun murder mystery where the author adds quite a few twists and turns, especially towards the second half. While the story takes a while to set up momentum, it was hard to put down once the plot thickens. Moreover, the twist in the end as to who was responsible again threw me off and was someone I did not expect.

    All the three characters had some connection to Boney, and it was interesting to see how they got together to find out what happened. Frankly, I loved Cal’s backstory as I thought he had the juiciest secret amongst the three. However, Ivy was my favorite character, and I enjoyed her reactions to the situation. Mateo was the weakest link, in my opinion, compared to the others. On a side note, I also liked Ishaan Mittal and Zack Abrams’s side commentary on the reports of Boney’s investigation.

    However, I felt that this book took time to set up. It takes a few chapters before our characters witness what happens to Boney Mahoney, and I wish the author had added more twists in the first half. I felt the story picked up only once they broke, entered the house, and found something shocking, and when Ivy and Mateo follow Cal.

    Overall, “You’ll Be the Death of Me” is another thrilling book to add to the author’s works, and I hope she continues to write more.

    Enter the Giveaway

    3 winners will receive a copy of YOU’LL BE THE DEATH OF ME, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    You'll Be the Death of Me

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the You’ll Be the Death of Me by Karen M. McManus Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    NatReads-Review-11-22-2021
    @readingwordsmith-Review-11-23-2021
    @amysbooknook8-Review-11-24-2021
    BiancaBuysBooks-Review-11-25-2021
    For the Love of KidLit-Excerpt-11-26-2021
    Bookhounds YA-Review-11-27-2021

    Week Two:
    @simplybeccamee-Review-11-28-2021
    Jenguerdy-Review-11-29-2021
    Thindbooks Blog-Review-11-30-2021
    Midnightbooklover-Review-12-1-2021
    The Book Nut-Review-12-2-2021
    @curlygrannylovestoread-Review-12-3-2021
    The book review crew-Review-12-4-2021

    Week Three:
    Kait Plus Books-Review-12-5-2021
    It Starts at Midnight-Review-12-6-2021
    Coffee, Dogs & Books-Review-12-7-2021
    One More Exclamation-Review-12-8-2021
    Confessions of a YA Reader-Review-12-9-2021
    Stuck in the Stacks-Review-12-10-2021
    @thebookishfoxwitch-Review-12-11-2021

    Week Four:
    My Fictional Oasis-Review-12-12-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-12-13-2021
    BookBriefs-Review-12-14-2021
    Momfluenster-Review-12-15-2021
    onemused-Review-12-16-2021
    emilythebooknerd-Review-12-17-2021

  • Murder at the Abbey by Frances Evesham

    Murder at the Abbey by Frances Evesham

    Murder at the Abbey

    Murder at the Abbey by Frances Evesham

    Release: November 11, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Boldwood Books
    Source: Amazon
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N

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    The Brand NEW instalment in the bestselling Exham-on-Sea series. An unsolved murder echoes down the corridors of Cleeve Abbey for years.

    The Exham-on-Sea’s History Society’s annual summer picnic comes to an abrupt end when human bones are discovered in Washford River, beside historic Cleeve Abbey.

    Thrilled to find evidence of a possible centuries-old murder mystery, the members of the society organise a ghost-hunting night in the ruins of Cleeve Abbey, despite amateur sleuth Libby Forest’s reservations.

    Libby is a woman of many talents, a baker, chocolatier, even a reluctant sleuth, but she’s no fan of the supernatural.and her doubts are justified when a friend is attacked under cover of darkness at the ghost-hunt.

    Distressed and angry, Libby sets out with her new husband Max and their two dogs Bear and Shipley to uncover the connection between the murder of a sixteenth century monk and a present-day attack in picturesque Somerset.

    With friends and neighbours as suspects, Libby and Max close in on the culprit only to find that others are still in danger.

    There’s no time to lose as the sins of the past threaten lives in the community.

    Murder at the Abbey is the eighth in a series of Exham-on-Sea Murder Mysteries from the small English seaside town full of quirky characters, sea air, and gossip.

    If you love Agatha Christie-style mysteries, cosy crime, clever dogs and cake, then you’ll love these intriguing whodunnits.’

    About the Author:

    Follow Frances at www.francesevesham.com to join her VIP list and pick up a free short story, The Fish and Chip Shop Murder.

    One day, as Frances walked on a beach in peaceful Somerset, she came upon a unique nine-legged Victorian lighthouse. Her first cosy crime story, Murder at the Lighthouse, was born.

    Now, she writes mystery stories: the Exham on Sea and Ham Hill Murder Mysteries, all set in Somerset.

    She collects poison recipes and cooks with a glass of wine in one hand and a bunch of chillies in the other, her head full of ingenious ways to dispatch her victims – in fiction, of course.

    Frances has been a speech therapist and a road sweeper, and worked in the criminal courts seeing crime from all points of view: victim, prosecution and defence.

    She also has a special interest in writing for children who struggle with reading. Dragon Ring is an easy-read book, produced especially for dyslexic children.

    Website | Goodreads | Amazon

    Murder at the Abbey Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    Oh my! Murder, mystery, and monks! “Murder at the Abbey” was so much better than what I had hoped.

    Although I have not read the previous books in the “Exham on Sea Mysteries” series, I felt that I had known these characters. As soon as the author introduced Libby and Max, I felt like they were my family members. The author surprised me with the way she narrated the story. Initially, when I started reading this book, I thought it would be a lukewarm cozy mystery. While it starts off that way, the book’s second half is more twisted than I anticipated. Also, the author throws in quite a few red herrings, where at times, even our lead team feel like they are going in circles and back to square one.

    The author set the mood nicely right from the beginning. The story is gripping right from the first chapter as the group finds bones, which they think are of an animal. But the case soon turns into murder, which involves forensics, and Libby and Max find out that they could also be possible targets. I also liked how they interacted with Constable Gemma Humberstone on the case. Some memorable scenes are when they research the Cleeve Abbey monks or when Mandy hears a noise at the gatehouse. Some moments even shocked me because of the surprising deaths that I did not expect.

    Moreover, even with the limited number of suspects, the culprit turned out to be someone I did not expect, making this enjoyable. On a side note, I also liked the side story of Winifred Reeves and her husband anxiously. Tom and even Chesterton.

    Overall, “Murder at the Abbey” is a gripping mystery book to pick up and made me pick up the first book of the series.

  • The Pickwick Murders by Heather Redmond

    The Pickwick Murders by Heather Redmond

    The Pickwick Murders

    The Pickwick Murders by Heather Redmond

    Release: October 26, 2021 
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Kensington Books
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N,

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    In this latest reimagining of Dickens as an amateur sleuth, Charles is tossed into Newgate Prison on a murder charge, and his fiancée Kate Hogarth must clear his name . . .

    London, January 1836: Just weeks before the release of his first book, Charles strangely receives  an invitation to join the exclusive Lightning Club. But his initiation in a basement maze takes a wicked turn when he stumbles upon the corpse of Samuel Pickwick, the club’s president. With the victim’s blood literally on his hands, Charles ends up in notorious Newgate Prison.

    Now it’s up to Kate to keep her framed fiancé from the hangman’s noose. To solve this labyrinthine mystery, she is forced to puzzle her way through a fiendish series of baffling riddles sent to her in anonymous poison pen letters. With the help of family and friends, she must keep her wits about her to corner the real killer—before time runs out and Charles Dickens meets a dead end . . .

    About the Author:

    Heather Redmond is an author of commercial fiction . She also writes as Heather Hiestand. First published in mystery, she took a long detour through romance before returning. Her last British-born ancestor departed London in the 1920s. But  she is a committed anglophile, Dickens devotee, and lover of all things nineteenth century. 

    She has lived in Illinois, California, and Texas, and now resides in a small town in Washington State with her husband and son. The author of many novels, novellas, and short stories, she has achieved best-seller status at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Her 2018 Heather Redmond debut, A Tale of Two Murders, was a multi-week Barnes & Noble Hardcover Mystery Bestseller. 

    Her two current mystery series are “A Dickens of a Crime” and “the Journaling mysteries.” She writes for Kensington and Severn House. 

    She is the current president of the Columbia River Chapter of Sisters in Crime (SinC).

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram 

    The Pickwick Murders Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    I have not read the previous book in the series, but I found “The Pickwick Murders” to be a thrilling mystery.

    The plot captured my interest as soon as Charles experiences something shocking, thinking Augustus will initiate him into the Lightning Club. I felt terrible for Charles as he found Samual’s body and wondered what to do. My heart went out to Charles in some scenes, primarily when Curdle randomly attacks him for no reason. The author does not disappoint in the mystery and thrills, as something shocking happens in every chapter.

    Moreover, I like how strong Kate is and decides to investigate herself through William’s help. Kate is the star of the show, and I thought the author portrayed her beautifully. She shares a friendly relationship with her father and her sister Mary, and I enjoyed how she took charge of the situation to help Charles. The author paces the mystery nicely, and I was intrigued when Kate started receiving the letters. Some memorable moments are when she meets Charles’s father or deciphers the poem with Agnes Baillie. Even Breese, Fred, and Julie added nicely to the supporting cast. Frankly, I loved Fred, Julie, and Kate as the brave trio as they investigated the crime and tried to find out what was happening.

    However, my only criticism of the story is that the person, in the end, turned out to be someone I had suspected, so I was not shocked by the reveal. Apart from that, I thought “The Pickwick Murders” was a very creative book and has inspired me to pick up the first book to see how it all started. If you love Charles Dickens and historical mysteries, do check out the series.

    Book Tour Schedule

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Pickwick Murders by Heather Redmond Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

    Cassie’s Book Reviews-Oct. 26th
    Love My Books 2020-Oct. 26th
    She Just Loves Books-Oct. 26th
    Rajivs Reviews-Oct. 27th
    Subakka Bookstuff-Oct. 28th
    Bookworm Struggles -Oct. 28th
    Rozier Reads and Wine-Oct. 29th

  • As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

    As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

    As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson

    Release: September 28th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Delacorte Press
    Source: TBR and BeyondTours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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    The highly anticipated, edge-of-your-seat conclusion to the addictive A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder series that reads like your favorite true crime podcast or show. By the end, you’ll never think the same of good girls again.

    Pip’s good girl days are long behind her. After solving two murder cases and garnering internet fame from her crime podcast, she’s seen a lot.

    But she’s still blindsided when it starts to feel like someone is watching her. It’s small things at first. A USB stick with footage recording her and the same anonymous source always asking her: who will look for you when you’re the one who disappears? It could be a harmless fan, but her gut is telling her danger is lurking.

    When Pip starts to find connections between her possible stalker and a local serial killer, Pip knows that there is only one choice: find the person threatening her town including herself–or be as good as dead. Because maybe someone has been watching her all along…

    About the Author:

    Lorem IpsuHolly Jackson started writing stories at a young age, completing her first (poor) attempt at a novel when she was fifteen. She graduated from the University of Nottingham, where she studied literary linguistics and creative writing, with a master’s degree in English. Jackson enjoys playing video games and watching true-crime documentaries so she can pretend to be a detective. She lives in London. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is her debut novel.

    Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    As Good As Dead Review:

    I have not read the previous two books, but I want to see how it started after reading “As Good as Dead.”

    This book was so atmospheric and creepy. Right from the getgo, you get a feeling of foreboding as Pip starts to get the messages about disappearing. The author paces the story wonderfully as it progresses, especially when you cannot put it down in the second half. I was on the edge of my seat, wondering what Pip would do. Considering that she is fascinated with true crime, it was a delight to see how intricate she sets her plans. The story becomes a cat and mouse game where you wonder if Pip has committed the perfect crime or not and will get away with it. Some scenes are intense, like the scenes between Pip and Jason and when she sees Max coming to the door. Even small moments like when Pip sees the pigeon with no head disturbed me.

    Moreover, I loved the main leads. Pip is dynamic as she tries to cover up for what she did. The author describes her feelings wonderfully as she wonders how her actions will impact her friends and family. Moreover, I loved the bond that she shared with Ravi. Ravi is pretty much the perfect boyfriend, and I loved how he stood by Pip no matter what she did. I also enjoyed Detective Hawkins and thought he spice the story.

    I wish I had read this series in order because I felt like I would have enjoyed the book even more. Overall, “As Good As Dead” is a thrilling conclusion to the series. I already bought the previous books and am excited to see all the events before this one.

    Book Tour Schedule

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson Blog Tour hosted by TBR and BeyondTours. 

    Kait Plus Books-Journal Spread
    Devouring Books-Promo Post
    I’m All Booked Up-Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead
    lousbookstuff-Review & Favourite Quotes

    September 28th
    Confessions of a YA Reader-Review
    Books of Amber-Review & Playlist
    Books of Magic and Mystery-15 Reactions While Reading As Good As Dead & Mood Board

    September 29th
    HerBookishObsession-Review
    TeaTimeLit-Review
    The Blind Scribe-Book Look & Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead
    Reading With Teresa-Review

    September 30th
    Nine Bookish Lives-Promo Post
    Books and Strokes-Review, Favourite Quotes & Mood Board
    SubtleBookish-Review & Journal Spread
    Books Are Magic Too-Review

    October 1st
    Jen Jen Reviews-Review
    Abby’s Blog-Review & Favourite Quotes
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review
    Bookz Forever-Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead

    October 2nd
    dinipandareads-Review & Journal Spread
    The BookDutchesses -Review & TikTok
    The Broke Book Blog-Top 5 Reasons to Read As Good As Dead

    October 3rd
    Stuck in Fiction-Promo Post
    The Portuguese Bibliophile -Review & Mood Board
    The Reading Raccoon-Review
    Page by Paige Books-Review & Mood Board