My Book Reviews

Category: Thriller

This category contains any posts published in reference to books of thriller genre.

  • Booked for Murder by P.J. Nelson

    Booked for Murder by P.J. Nelson

    Booke for MurderBooked for Murder by P.J.Nelson

    Release: December 10, 2024

    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Minotaur Books
    Source: NetGalley
    Find it at: Amazon , GoodReads

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    In this atmospheric southern cozy debut, Madeline Brimley returns to the bookstore she inherited, discovering that small towns hold deadly secrets.

    Madeline Brimley left small town Georgia many years ago to go to college and pursue her dreams on the stage. Her dramatic escapades are many but success has eluded her, leaving her at loose ends. But then she gets word that has her beloved, eccentric Aunt Rose passed. Also she’s left Madeline her equally eccentric bookstore housed in an old Victorian mansion in the small college town of Enigma. She arrives in her beat-up Fiat to claim The Old Juniper Bookstore, and restart her life. But Madeline is faced with unexpected challenges. The gazebo in the back yard is set ablaze. And a late-night caller threatens to burn the whole store down if she doesn’t leave immediately.

    But Madeline Brimley, not one to be intimidated, ignores the threats and soldiers on. Until there’s another fire and a murder in the store itself. Now with a cloud of suspicion falling over her, it’s up to Madeline to untangle the skein of secrets and find the killer before she herself is the next victim.

    About the Author:

    PJ NELSON is the pseudonym of an award-winning actor, dramatist, professor, and novelist (among other many other professions) who has done just about everything except run a bookstore.

    He lives in Decatur, Georgia.

    Macmillan | Goodreads

     Booked for Murder Review:

    Poor Madeline. Upon arriving in her old hometown of Enigma to take over the business her Aunt Rose left her, she is stunned by threatening phone calls and fire scares. To make matters worse, she finds herself entangled in a murder that she must solve. I immediately liked how the author caught my attention as we tried to figure out what was happening in Enigma and why they would attack Madeline. This cozy mystery was a delightful read, skillfully crafted by the author to keep me guessing the killer’s identity until the final reveal. The expertly scattered red herrings maintained the suspense, making it engaging.

    Moreover, it was fascinating to watch Madeline learn that appearances can be deceiving. We see Madeline question herself as she gains new insights into the people around her, leading to a refreshing shift in her perspectives. However, her reluctance to trust Billy and her attempts to do his job sometimes got on my nerves.

    Gloria was undoubtedly my favorite character. Her snarky humor, wisdom, and calm demeanor made her incredibly endearing. The depth of characters like Philomena, David, Billy, and Bo added a layer of connection and authenticity to the story.

    Also, the author’s love for the theater is evident through the numerous references made by Madeline and the other characters. While I’m not a theater enthusiast, I enjoyed reading these references and felt they enriched the story.

    My only criticism is that the author occasionally included excessive details that slowed the plot. Although I didn’t expect a cozy mystery to be fast-paced, some sentences felt overly descriptive and could have been more concise.

    Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed “Booked for Murder” and look forward to revisiting Madeline and the residents of Enigma in future installments.

  • The Wrong Neighbour by Caleb Crowe

    The Wrong Neighbour by Caleb Crowe

    The Wrong Neighbour by Caleb Crowe

    Release: June 23, 2024

    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Inkubator Books
    Source: NetGalley
    Find it at: Goodreads

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    They’ve moved into their dream house. Then they meet the couple next door.

    After a whirlwind romance, Megan and Nick move into the home of their dreams, a beautiful beach house.

    They think it’s their happily ever after… until their neighbours return from a cruise.

    Ron and Jackie are loud and obnoxious, playing their home cinema at high volume, and shattering the tranquillity with their endless building work. To cap it all, they have a kennel with four dangerous dogs that bark and howl day and night.

    They are the living definition of the neighbours from hell.

    Megan finds she is pregnant, and what should be a blissful dream for the couple instead becomes a gruelling nightmare. As their home turns into a battleground, their relationship starts to crumble under the relentless stress.

    When Ron and Jackie lay claim to part of Megan and Nick’s garden, the young couple know they are in for a fight. But they have no idea what their neighbours really want – or how far they will go to get it.

    Their nightmare has only just begun …

    The Wrong Neighbour – the shocking psychological thriller perfect for fans of Freida McFadden, Lucinda Berry and John Marrs.

    About the Author:

    Caleb Crowe is a British writer of psychological thrillers, and is fascinated by stories where extraordinary things happen to ordinary people, and the mundane is transformed into the menacing.

    He’s afraid of the sea, fearful in the countryside, panicky in large open spaces and terrified of small, confined spaces. There’s nowhere, and no one, that doesn’t possess some dark, brooding anxiety just waiting to have the lid prised open and turned into a twisty, suspenseful, nerve-shredding story.

    He lives in Manchester with his partner, two children and two cats, who probably have their own mysterious agendas. Whether he’s navigating the urban jungle or wrestling with the daily challenges of family life, Caleb draws inspiration from the unpredictability of everyday existence.

    Website | Goodreads

    The Wrong Neighbour Review:

    This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it certainly won’t be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s writing style, which packs a lot into each chapter and makes you genuinely root for the main character, Meg. The author constantly pushes the protagonist to the brink, and just when it seems she might escape her predicament, the author throws in a twist that leaves you wondering if she has any hope, keeping you glued to the pages.

    Moreover, Meg is a truly compelling lead. Initially, she relies on Nick to solve problems, but as the story unfolds, you witness her transformation and gain a newfound respect for her as she begins to take matters into her own hands. Her growth and resilience are truly inspiring.

    Another aspect I found intriguing is that, apart from Meg, most characters are particularly unlikable. The author delves into not only the rude and threatening neighbors but also Meg’s marriage with Nick and other characters like Gavin and Peter. This constant questioning of who can truly be trusted as secrets and lies unravel, particularly with the irritatingly saccharine Jackie, kept me curious about their true intentions.

    However, my only criticism is that the author sometimes spends too much time on Meg’s nightmares and the self-help she receives from a mentor named Tiffany. While these sections provide insight into Meg’s psyche and her attempts to stay calm amidst the chaos, they can distract from the main plot.

    Overall, “The Wrong Neighbour” is an engaging thriller that will hook you with its storyline and keep you guessing until the end. I enjoyed reading the story and look forward to reading more by the author. 

  • My Dark Secret by Dawn Hemmings

    My Dark Secret by Dawn Hemmings

    My Dark Secret by Dawn Hemmings

    Release: July 23, 2024

    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Atmosphere Press
    Source: NetGalley
    Find it at: Amazon , GoodReads

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    In the shadows of a quiet town, one woman’s fascination with the darkest corners of the human psyche takes a sinister turn.

    Isla is a seemingly ordinary librarian. But she has a secret fascination with true crime and the complexities of the criminal mind. With deepening academic interest, she follows a chilling path of obsession. She has a sinister plan. Now she contemplates the unthinkable and meticulously plans a terrible act. The story becomes a psychological thriller that explores the thin boundary between morality and madness. It is a macabre ballet where each step, each twirl is carefully choreographed movement. And leads to a climax that only she can appreciate.

    In My Dark Secret by Dawn Hemmings, takes the readers through a riveting tale. It delves into the psychological intricacies of a character’s descent into darkness. This gripping narrative challenges us to confront the fine line between curiosity and obsession, fantasy and reality. Also, it offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche and the unforeseen consequences of unchecked curiosity.

    About the Author:

    Outside of her day job, Dawn Hemmings loves exploring new places and going on adventures. She travels around the world as a true wanderer. While in UK, she drives in her camper van named Freeda.

    Dawn grew up in North Lincolnshire and lives with her two Maine Coons, Banjo and Presley. She has been working in health and safety for more than 27 years. She’s achieved academic success with an MSc in Environmental Health and Safety and a MBA. Dawn also has been a hairdresser and a skilled personal assistant.

    In her books, she weaves in stories inspired by her diverse travels and her fascination with mysteries and murder.

    Amazon | Goodreads

    My Dark Secret Review:

    “My Dark Secret” by Dawn Hemmings is a compelling read that delves into the mind of Isla, a librarian with an unsettling fascination for true crime and murder. Isla’s character is intriguing, primarily because her fascination is rooted in the wrong reasons, adding a layer of complexity and suspense to the narrative. The author masterfully unravels Isla’s personality, offering insights into her upbringing that shape her morbid curiosity. As I read, I found myself increasingly captivated by Isla’s psychological landscape, eager to understand how her mind worked.

    The book’s structure is another highlight. From the meticulous planning to the chilling execution, Hemmings spares no detail. Each phase of the plot is crafted with precision, making the story both fascinating and creepy. The thoroughness with which the author describes each part of Isla’s plans left me both horrified and riveted. This attention to detail enhances the story’s impact, making it a memorable read.

    Furthermore, the author adeptly explores the moral implications of Isla’s actions. As Isla grapples with her conscience, readers are prompted to reflect on the ethical dimensions of true crime fascination. This adds depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple thriller.

    At just the right length, “My Dark Secret” is concise and focused. The plot remains tight and does not deviate, making it an easy read that can be completed in one sitting. This brevity, combined with its intense storyline, ensures that readers are engrossed from beginning to end. Overall, “My Dark Secret” is a chilling, thought-provoking book that I highly recommend.

  • The Librarian Valerie Keogh

    The Librarian Valerie Keogh

    The Librarian Valerie Keogh

    Release: April 21, 2023

    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Boldwood Books
    Source: Amazon
    Find it at: Amazon , GoodReads

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    Since that fateful night I have always kept myself to myself. Reserved. Private. Alone.

    Some people think I am too quiet. That life is passing me by. But I know there is safety in my own company. That no one can hurt me if I don’t let them get too close.

    Until the day I meet him. A handsome, charming stranger. A chance for me to take a risk…finally?

    Or a man who threatens everything I’ve worked so hard for?

    You’ll be sorry…

    And that’s when my whole life begins to fall apart….

    Don’t miss the brand new thriller by Valerie Keogh! Perfect for fans of Sue Watson, Shalini Boland and K.L. Slater.

    About the Author:

    Valerie started to write several years ago. She self-published eight crime novels and one psychological thriller before signing a two book contract with Bookouture in March 2018. The first of these, Secrets Between Us, is available now and the second is due in Feb 2019. She is a registered nurse with a degree in English and a Masters in American Literature. Recently she has given up nursing to concentrate on her writing career.

    Twitter | Goodreads

    The Librarian Review:

    Firstly, parts of this book struck me as philosophical and profound. Sometimes, we feel disconnected from the fast-paced world, wondering if we fit in. I appreciated Wesley as the protagonist, who initially feels out of place but gradually becomes more confident and learns to love herself, refusing to let people like Mr. Holt affect her. The story

    Valerie Keogh’s “The Librarian” is a compelling thriller that expertly weaves surprising murders into an intricate plot. I liked the story’s theme, where Ava, the protagonist, feels that a mysterious man she turns down starts ruining her life. Initially, the incidents feel disconnected, and you wonder if the man is the cause. I liked how the author set up the plot, which kept me guessing. Moreover, Ava’s bond with Judy and Poppy adds emotional depth and relatability to the narrative. Keogh’s depiction of eerie scenes, especially those involving birds and a chilling museum incident, creates a palpable atmosphere that keeps readers on edge. One of the book’s most vital points is how it consistently keeps you guessing about the killer’s identity, ensuring a suspenseful read from start to finish.

    However, ‘The Librarian’ has some flaws. The author’s tendency to over-describe certain aspects and repeat Ava’s feelings can slow the pacing and make some sections feel repetitive. While thorough, this meticulous attention to Ava’s emotional state can sometimes be tedious. Additionally, Ava’s character is a tad annoying at times, which might detract from the overall enjoyment for some readers.

    Also, when picking up “The Librarian,” I expected a story deeply rooted in a library setting. However, the plot differs from this expectation, making the title somewhat misleading in relation to the story’s theme.

    Despite these drawbacks, “The Librarian” is a gripping read with unexpected twists and a haunting atmosphere. Keogh’s ability to keep readers guessing about the killer’s identity makes it a worthwhile read for fans of the thriller genre. The strong bond between the main characters and the atmospheric tension are definite highlights that make this book memorable.

  • The Silent Friend by Alison Stockham

    The Silent Friend by Alison Stockham

    The Silent FriendThe Silent Friend by Alison Stockham

    Release: July 24, 2023
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Boldwood Books
    Source: Rachel’s Random ResourcesFind it at: Goodreads, Amazon,

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    When it comes to saving yourself, who will you betray?
    Louise has a shadowy past that she wants to break free from . And when she develops an unlikely friendship with Isabelle, her neighbour, she finally finds the family she’s always yearned for. But Louise knows more about Isabelle than her new friend realises. It is more specifically about her imprisoned husband – and the circumstances behind his arrest. Louise is faced with a to continue lying to her only friend or tell the truth and ruin any chance she has of starting over…

    About the Author:

    Alison has always written, training with the Script Factory as a script editor, working in film drama before moving into TV documentary production for the BBC and Channel 4. Whilst working in television, Alison continued to write and her first full-length novel, The Cuckoo Sister, was long listed for the Lucy Cavendish Fiction Prize 2020 and was published by Boldwood Books in February 2023. Her second novel, The Silent Friend is due to publish in July 2023.

    She works for the Cambridge Literary Festival. She lives in the city with her husband and children and is working on her next novel.

    You can find her on Twitter at @AlisonStockham.

    Twitter | Facebook | Amazon | Goodreads

    The Silent Friend Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    Firstly, I was captivated by the author’s skill in portraying the intricate dynamics between Louise, Isabelle, and their respective family members. Louise’s recollections of her challenging childhood and deep affection for her grandfather resonated with me. At the same time, Isabelle’s tense encounters with her mother, Sandra, regarding Lottie added a layer of intrigue to the story. Moreover, the gradual development of Louise and Isabelle’s strong friendship was one of the story’s strengths.

    Secondly, I admired how the author captured Louise’s conflicting emotions toward Isabelle and Carl. The constant awareness of the potential consequences she could face if her past were exposed created a real dilemma that genuinely stood out in the story. Louise’s character is intriguing, and as the narrative unfolds, you can’t help but develop a fondness for her. Personally, some of the memorable moments were when Louise visited Carl in prison and when she started receiving threatening letters.

    However, there are some unresolved plot threads in the story. Certain mystery elements are left to speculation without clear confirmation, and I would have appreciated a sense of closure. It’s possible that the author intends to leave room for a potential sequel due to the open-ended nature of the main plot. However, in this case, the climax felt incomplete. Furthermore, the story shifts from being a thrilling suspense tale to resembling more of a profound “Thelma and Louise”-esque exploration of friendship.

    Nevertheless, I still find “The Silent Friend” compelling with its unique and non-conventional plot, setting it apart from typical thrillers. The main character, Louise, carries the narrative with her effective presence, making the book well worth experiencing at least once.

    Book Tour Schedule

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Silent Friend by Alison Stockham Blog Tour hosted by Rachel’s Random Resources. 

     

     

  • Sound by Catherine Fearns

    Sound by Catherine Fearns

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    Sound

    Sound by Catherine Fearns

    Release: 15th June 2023
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Northodox Press
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    There’s a bad vibe. A professor of psychoacoustics is found dead in his office. A suspected heart attack, until a second acoustician dies under similar circumstances. Meanwhile, an outbreak of mysterious illnesses on a council estate, outbursts of unexplained violence in a city centre nightclub, and strange noises coming from the tunnels underneath Liverpool. Can it really be a coincidence that death metal band Total Depravity are back in the city, waging their own form of sonic warfare?

    Detective Inspector Darren Swift convinces himself that there are connections. Still grieving his fiancé’s death , he swears to revenge.  He pushes himself back into action on the trail of a murderer with a terrifying and undetectable weapon. But he cannot solve this case using conventional detective work, . D.I. Swift will need to put the rulebook aside and seek the occult expertise of Dr. Helen Hope and her unlikely sidekick, guitarist Mikko Kristensen. You can’t escape the noise. Only the memory of silence can comfort you. Or death itself

     

    About the Author:

    Catherine Fearns is a writer and musician from Liverpool, UK. Her Reprobation series of crime fiction novels was published by Darkstroke Books.
    The first in the series, Reprobation, won a Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal and a Page Turner eBook Award. Northodox Press is now re-releasing the series as an ebook/Kindle boxset, and will publish a fourth instalment (Lamb of God) in February 2023.
    US publisher Quill & Crow has signed Catherine, and her first historical novel, All The Parts Of The Soul, is due for release in 2023.

    Catherine is a music journalist, specialising in heavy metal. She plays guitar and keyboards in the all-female metal band Chaos Rising.Also,Universal Edition has published her sheet music compositions .

    Catherine currently lives in Switzerland with her four children and her Tibetan terrier.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Sound Review:

    What sets this series apart is the wealth of knowledge that the author imparts through the protagonists’ research. In each book, you learn something new, and I learned about various subjects like misophonia, stigmatophilia, apophenia, and Vibroacoustic Disorder, to name a few. The author seamlessly weaves this information into the narrative, making it educational and engaging.

    Moreover, the author skillfully incorporates new writing techniques, and in this book, I enjoyed the details of the medical examination of bodies. While some of the murder scenes are pretty gruesome, they effectively contribute to the story’s overall atmosphere. There are several memorable moments, such as the haunting sounds from the tunnel and the intriguing visit to the bookstore by Mikko and Helen.

    Regarding the ploy, the author adeptly incorporates events from the previous books, creating a sense of continuity. Familiar characters like Lacey, Dave, Stuart, Justine, Thomas, and Shawn Forrest appear, and their story arcs develop nicely. The return of Mikko, who was missed in the second book, adds another layer of excitement. I liked the dynamics between Mikko, Helen, and Darren as they tackled a new investigation involving sounds. Additionally, the complex relationship between Darren and McGregor adds an exciting dynamic to the case.

    However, I felt the story suffered from having too much happening simultaneously. With multiple story arcs, religious themes, investigations, and an expanding cast of characters, it was, at times, challenging to keep track of everyone’s roles and actions. While the climax offers satisfying resolutions to some of these elements, there are still open-ended aspects that leave you wanting more.

    Despite this minor drawback, I enjoy this series greatly, and “Sound” proves to be a worthy addition. I’m curious to see how the story will progress in future installments.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Lamb of God

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Lamb of God by Catherine Fearns Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours

     

  • Consuming Fire by Catherine Fearns

    Consuming Fire by Catherine Fearns

    Consuming Fire

    Consuming Fire by Catherine Fearns

    Release: 15th June 2023
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Northodox Press
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    Liverpool is in the grip of an intense heatwave, and strange things are happening. A woman dies in an apparent case of Spontaneous Human Combustion; a truck explodes on the dock road; the charred corpses of pets litter the city; forest fires ravage the pinewoods…and there are birds everywhere, silent flocks drawing in ominously.

    Detective Inspector Darren Swift thinks there are connections, and he starts investigating into the worlds of football, nightclubs and organised crime. But is he imagining things? Dr. Helen Hope doesn’t think so. And she believes the key lies in a mysterious seventeenth-century occult book which has gone missing from Liverpool Library.

    In the blistering sequel to Reprobation, DI Swift confronts some inconvenient ghosts from his past, as a terrifying shadow lies over his city’s reality….

     

    About the Author:

    Catherine Fearns is a writer and musician from Liverpool, UK. Her Reprobation series of crime fiction novels was published by Darkstroke Books.
    The first in the series, Reprobation, won a Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal and a Page Turner eBook Award. Northodox Press is now re-releasing the series as an ebook/Kindle boxset, and will publish a fourth instalment (Lamb of God) in February 2023.
    US publisher Quill & Crow has signed Catherine, and her first historical novel, All The Parts Of The Soul, is due for release in 2023.

    Catherine is a music journalist, specialising in heavy metal. She plays guitar and keyboards in the all-female metal band Chaos Rising.Also,Universal Edition has published her sheet music compositions .

    Catherine currently lives in Switzerland with her four children and her Tibetan terrier.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Consuming Fire Review:

    Oh my goodness! This book surpassed my expectations compared to the first one. Firstly, I really enjoyed the author’s decision to focus more on Darren’s character while keeping Helen in the background. Darren’s progression in investigating the cases of spontaneous combustion and unraveling the mysteries was captivating. That being said, I still appreciated Helen’s presence and her bond with Darren. In this book, she comes across as stronger and more independent than before.

    Moreover, the author skillfully crafts the plot in a thrilling manner, leaving readers guessing whether the incidents are the work of a person or if there is a supernatural element involved. The introduction of a suspicious family adds to the suspense, and as the murder count rises toward the end, even we, as readers, start to question what is truly happening.

    Similar to the first book, this one also delves into intriguing concepts such as witch burning, paganism, healing, and darker themes like the backstory of Sepharvites and Adramelech, which I found fascinating. Each chapter’s ending with an excerpt from the book Helen discovers adds an eerie touch to the overall story.

    And let’s not forget the conclusion! The author leaves us on a cliffhanger, leaving us eager to pick up the next book and find out what unfolds next. There were many memorable moments, including Darren and Helen’s investigation trip to Geneva, the incident during the football match, and even more minor occurrences like a bird crashing into Helen’s lecture.

    All in all, “Consuming Fire” exceeded my expectations compared to the first book, and I’m eagerly anticipating getting my hands on the next installment to continue this gripping series.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Lamb of God

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Lamb of God by Catherine Fearns Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours

     

  • Reprobation by Catherine Fearns

    Reprobation by Catherine Fearns

    Reprobation

    Reprobation by Catherine Fearns

    Release: June 15,2023
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Northodox Press
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, 

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    Are you one of the elect?

    ​Dr. Helen Hope is a lecturer in eschatology – the study of death, judgement, and the destiny of humankind. She is also a Calvinist nun, her life devoted to atoning for a secret crime.

    ​When a body is found crucified on a Liverpool beach, she forms an unlikely alliance with suspect Mikko Kristensen, lead guitarist in death metal band Total Depravity. Together, they go on the trail of a rogue geneticist who they believe holds the key – not just to the murder, but to something much darker.

    ​Also on the trail is cynical Scouse detective Darren Swift. In his first murder case, he must confront his own lack of faith as a series of horrific crimes drag the city of two cathedrals to the gates of hell.

    ​Science meets religious belief in this gripping murder mystery

     

    About the Author:

    Catherine Fearns is a writer and musician from Liverpool, UK. Her Reprobation series of crime fiction novels was published by Darkstroke Books.
    The first in the series, Reprobation, won a Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal and a Page Turner eBook Award. Northodox Press is now re-releasing the series as an ebook/Kindle boxset, and will publish a fourth instalment (Lamb of God) in February 2023.
    US publisher Quill & Crow has signed Catherine, and her first historical novel, All The Parts Of The Soul, is due for release in 2023.

    Catherine is a music journalist, specialising in heavy metal. She plays guitar and keyboards in the all-female metal band Chaos Rising.Also,Universal Edition has published her sheet music compositions .

    Catherine currently lives in Switzerland with her four children and her Tibetan terrier.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Reprobation Review:

    This book offers a lot to appreciate. It introduced me to eschatology, Calvinism, and various theological ideals I hadn’t been familiar with before. The author skillfully weaves in themes of immortality, gene mutation, and other philosophical topics that really make you contemplate the higher purpose of life and the afterlife, which was the standout aspect of the story. Moreover, I enjoyed the integration of these elements into a crime fiction thriller, with both Helen and Mikko investigating from their perspective while Detectives Swift and Quinn are officially on the case, and I thought the author narrated it well from various perspectives.

    Personally, I particularly enjoyed how the author portrayed Helen’s conflicting feelings and her transformation once she met Mikko. Memorable moments include their interactions on the airplane and when Margaret reprimands Helen, as I was curious to see how Helen would respond. The author also adds suspenseful moments to the thriller aspect, such as Arran and Hayley noticing something strange in the church or the incident with the man and his laptop. The story is different, polished, and sophisticated, making you feel like you are reading something profound.

    However, the climax was a bit of a downside. While it was thrilling, it felt somewhat disconnected from the events leading up to it in terms of the responsible party.

    Apart from that, I found “Reprobation” to be an enjoyable read and a solid start to the series. I cannot wait to revisit Helen in the next book and find out what is in store for her.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Lamb of God

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Lamb of God by Catherine Fearns Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours

     

  • Covert in Cairo by Kelly Oliver

    Covert in Cairo by Kelly Oliver

    Covert in Cairo by Kelly Oliver

    Release: April 25, 2023
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Boldwood Books
    Source: Amazon
    Find it at: Goodreads, Kindle

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    Cairo. December 1917.

    Following a tip-off from notorious spy Fredrick Fredricks, Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane of British Intelligence find themselves in the hustle and bustle of Egypt. But ancient mummies aren’t the only bodies buried in the tombs of Cairo.

    When a young French archeologist is found dead in a tomb in the desert with his head bashed in, and an undercover British agent goes missing, the threat moves closer to home.

    As they dig deeper, soon Fiona and Kitty uncover a treasure trove of suspects, including competing excavators, jealous husbands, secret lovers, and belligerent spies! Fiona wonders if the notorious Fredrick Fredricks could be behind the murders? Or is the plot even more sinister?

    One thing is clear – If Fiona and Kitty can’t catch the killer, they might end up sharing a sarcophagus with Nefertiti.

    With humor as dry as the Arabian desert, and pacing as fast as a spitting camel, Fiona and Kitty are back in another sparkling adventure, this time in WW1 Egypt.

    About the Author:

    Kelly Oliver is the award-winning, bestselling author of three mysteries series:
    The contemporary suspense, Jessica James Mysteries,
    The middle grade, Pet Detective Mysteries, and The historical cozies The Fiona Figg Mysteries.

    When she’s not writing mysteries, Kelly is Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University.

    Kelly lives in Nashville with her husband and three very demanding felines.

    To learn more about Kelly and her books, please visit her website at www.kellyoliverbooks.com.

    Website | Goodreads

    Covert in Cairo Review:

    I thoroughly enjoyed reading “Chaos At Carnegie Hall” and eagerly anticipated this latest book in the series, as I have a particular fondness for mysteries set in ancient Egypt.

    To begin with, the author skillfully paints a vivid backdrop of Egypt, encompassing its mesmerizing sites and cuisines. The plot revolves around the sabotage of the Suez Canal, and the author ensures that there is never a dull moment. From shocking murders to ancient tombs and glamorous Egyptian balls, the story captivated me with its thrilling twists and turns. The protagonists are also exciting to read as they embark on a quest to uncover the truth.

    Fiona and Kitty are absorbing characters as they navigate the mysterious events around them. What adds to the intrigue is Fiona’s own entanglement as a suspect in one of the murders, lending an extra layer of complexity to the story. I was particularly impressed by the forensic techniques in their investigation, given the period when the story takes place. As with previous installments, I enjoyed Fiona’s interactions with the Fredrick Fredricks and Archie, although their intermittent appearances were somewhat puzzling. Additionally, characters like La Sultana and Lady Evelyn left a lasting impression, contributing to the sense of mystery.

    However, while “Covert in Cairo” offers an engaging continuation of the “Fiona Figg and Kitty Hall” series, I yearned for some aspects of the first book. Although we encountered notable historical figures such as Lawrence of Arabia and Howard Carter, I missed some intellectually stimulating discussions that were more prominent in the previous installment.

    Overall, “Covert in Cairo” is a delightful addition to the series, and I eagerly anticipate immersing myself in the next installment of Fiona and Kitty’s adventures.

  • Chaos at Carnegie Hall by Kelly Oliver

    Chaos at Carnegie Hall by Kelly Oliver

    Chaos at Carnegie hall

    Chaos at Carnegie Hall by Kelly Oliver

    Release: November 15, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Boldwood Books
    Source: Amazon
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon

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    Can Fiona catch a killer and find a decent cup of tea before her mustache wax melts?

    1917. New York.

    Notorious spy, Fredrick Fredricks, has invited Fiona to Carnegie Hall to hear a famous soprano. It’s an opportunity the War Office can’t turn down. Fiona and Clifford are soon on their way, but not before Fiona is saddled with chaperon duties for Captain Hall’s niece. Is Fiona a spy or a glorified babysitter?

    From the minute Fiona meets the soprano aboard the RMS Adriatic it’s treble on the high C’s. Fiona sees something—or someone—thrown overboard, and then she overhears a chemist plotting in German with one of her own countrymen!

    And the trouble doesn’t stop when they disembark. Soon Fiona is doing time with a group of suffragettes and investigating America’s most impressive inventor Thomas Edison.

    When her number one suspect turns up dead at the opera and Fredrick Fredricks is caught red-handed, it looks like it’s finally curtains for the notorious spy.

    But all the evidence points to his innocence. Will Fiona change her tune and clear her nemesis’ name? Or will she do her duty? And just what is she going to do with the pesky Kitty Lane? Not to mention swoon-worthy Archie Somersby . . .

    If Fiona’s going to come out on top, she’s going to have to make the most difficult decision of her life: the choice between her head and her heart.

    About the Author:

    Kelly Oliver is the award-winning, bestselling author of three mysteries series:
    The contemporary suspense, Jessica James Mysteries,
    The middle grade, Pet Detective Mysteries, and The historical cozies The Fiona Figg Mysteries.

    When she’s not writing mysteries, Kelly is Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at Vanderbilt University.

    Kelly lives in Nashville with her husband and three very demanding felines.

    To learn more about Kelly and her books, please visit her website at www.kellyoliverbooks.com.

    Website |Goodreads

    Chaos at Carnegie Hall Review:

    I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first book of the “Fiona Figg and Kitty Lane” series, despite having yet to read any previous books featuring these characters in other series by the author.

    There are a couple of reasons why this book captivated me. Firstly, I was impressed by the author’s storytelling style. The dialogues are witty and engaging, while the overall narrative has a grandeur that surpasses the typical cozy mystery series. From encountering suspicious activities aboard the RMS Adriatic, such as the disposal of a body, to shocking murders in Carnegie Hall, Fiona, Eliza, and Clifford embark on an intriguing quest to uncover the truth. I also found Fiona’s ability to disguise herself and pick locks to investigate the situation fun.

    Secondly, Fiona’s character takes center stage, and the author adds drama to her storyline. I liked her interactions with Eliza, Archie, Clifford, and even Poppy. Moreover, the profound discussions she engages in with other characters, like Emily Hobhouse, concerning South African children in concentration camps, suffragettes, the mistreatment of refugees, poverty, and controlling population growth made the story memorable.

    Thirdly, I appreciated the author’s skill in seamlessly integrating historical figures such as Thomas Edison, Anna Case, Dorothy Parker, Margaret Sanger, and J. Edgar Hoover into the plot, some even plausible suspects in the murder case. It’s rare to come across a series that attempts such an approach. I found it entertaining and cleverly executed without taking itself too seriously.

    In conclusion, “Chaos at Carnegie Hall” is an exciting introduction to the series and left me eagerly anticipating how the storyline will unfold in the next book, especially considering the suspenseful note on which this one concludes.