Evil Bones

Evil Bones by Kathy Reichs
11/18/25; 288 pages
Scribner
Temperance Brennan #24

Evil Bones by Kathy Reichs is a highly recommended thriller and the 24th book in the series featuring Charlotte, North Carolina, forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan. Be forewarned, this time it's animals being killed before the perpetrator turns to humans. You can read this as a stand alone as connections between characters are explained. 

It is known the small creatures, rat, rabbits, squirrels, etc. have been found killed and put on display in a horrendous manner. Tempe is called when a bizarre display is found that could be human. It turns out to be a dog, someone's pet, but clearly the person doing this is escalating the violence and there is real concern that a human will be next. Tempe is paired with semi-retired, grouchy and all around unlikable homicide detective Erskine “Skinny” Slidell. As predicted the next target is human.

This is an interesting case and the pace moves quickly, upping the tension and suspense just as rapidly, because the novel is short and to the point without a lot of intricate complications. Included in the headaches beyond the murder and animal cruelty is the mercurial and temperamental behavior of Tempe's great-niece Ruthie, along with other family problems. 

For most readers, Tempe is a well-known and developed character. Her dialogue can be both witty and insightful. As expected, Tempe's is always in danger and readers will be expecting this, which make her various cases entertaining, however, it also seems that she is also entirely too careless and unaware sometimes. 

Evil Bones is a great choice for those already following the Temperance Brennan series. Thanks to Scribner for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Broken Bones

Broken Bones by John Carson
11/11/25; 328 pages
Boldwood Books
DCI Liam Brodie #1

Broken Bones by John Carson is a highly recommended Scottish procedural/crime thriller and the first book in a new series featuring DCI Liam Brodie.

Three years earlier DCI Liam Brodie was responsible for capturing Edinburgh serial killer Dr. Gabriel Kane. Now with Fife’s Major Investigations Team he is now working as the lead detective because the previous DCI is missing. In his position he must interact with Kane in an attempt to get him to disclose where his victims are buried. When the latest victim's location is revealed they discover the victim is not who Kane said it was, so now the question is if this is a new victim or is another killer involved. 

At the same time a child's bones are discovered beneath the floorboards of an old house being remodeled in Fife. It appears the body, wrapped in plastic, has been there for many years. In a shocking coincidence, it is the same house where Brodie's girlfriend, psychologist Ruth Calder, grew up as a foster daughter. She knows who the victim likely was and remembers living in the house.

This is a compelling, very good introductory novel to a new series. At a deliberate, steady pace, the procedural logically follows the clues and discoveries in the complex investigations, and there are more than two investigations going on. Interspersed through the serious investigations are also humorous moments. As a longtime reader of British mysteries, I knew what bollocks, poncy, and tossers meant, but admittedly doolally gave me pause. No worries, I figured it out.

All the characters are introduced and portrayed as realistic individuals. Since this is an introduction to the team, it may feel like a lot of characters at first, but they all quickly sort themselves out. The whole team works very well together following up on information in the cases and the intrigue held my interest throughout the whole novel.

Broken Bones is an excellent choice for readers who enjoy procedurals and a great chance to be at the start of a new series. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Made You Look

Made You Look by Tanya Grant
11/18/25; 368 pages
Berkley

Made You Look by Tanya Grant is a recommended locked room psychological thriller following a group of social media influencers. This is more suitable for new adult readers or those who live their lives watching influencer content or reality TV.

A group of social media influencers head off to the Catskills for a free getaway at a new secluded retreat. All they need to do is post their vapid content, advertising the retreat to their followers. After they arrive they discover that there is no food, no staff, and very unreliable to no Wi-Fi. When a snow storm hits the group is completely cut off. It is then a killer strikes.

The group includes Sydney Kent, the ultimate It Girl; Caitlyn, another striving influencer; Lucy, a photographer; Jeff, Sydney’s boyfriend and an influencer; Nash, a stylist; and Brent, their manager. The narrative is told through the point-of-view of Lucy, Sydney, and Caitlyn. None of them are reliable narrators and every one of them is annoying, irritating, and insufferable in some way and at some point. They are also all foolish. 

It's not that it's a completely bad. This is a debut novel, the plot moves quickly, and it is a new updated take on a locked room thriller. The initial premise does grab your attention, and it is entertaining to see how many incredibly poor decisions they could make. Additionally, there are hopeful signs for Grant's next novel.

That said, once you start reading it becomes quite clear that there are better locked-room thrillers out there for adult readers that feature a more diverse cast of characters and create more intrigue. It felt like this novel targeted a much younger audience, either a YA or new adult reader - someone who actual follows the often insipid, uninformed, self-promoting content of the kind of influencers portrayed in the novel. 

Made You Look by Tanya Grant is recommended for YA or new adult readers. Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Sunshine Man

The Sunshine Man by Emma Stonex
11/11/25; 368 pages
Viking/Penguin

The Sunshine Man by Emma Stonex is a so-so literary thriller, recommended for the right reader, about revenge family secrets, betrayals, and unsolved mysteries set in 1989. 

Birdie Keller has been waiting eighteen years to hear that her sister's killer, Jimmy Maguire, has been freed from prison. She leaves her home with a handgun and a plan to avenge her sister, Providence’s, murder by killing him. Jimmy, who has always claimed the murder was committed by Floyd, is met at the prison by his daughter who drives him to see his family. It becomes clear that Jimmy was mentally ill and being treated for this while in prison. 

The narrative is divided into parts following both characters and a dual timeline. It opens following Birdie in the present and tells the story of her childhood and formative years in the past. Next is Jimmy's point-of-view, where he also becomes a sympathetic character through his dual timelines. His vocabulary is filled with swearing only it is written blanked out as: ‘——ing’,  ‘——ed’, or  ‘——‘, etc. This technique to avoid the actual word quickly becomes annoying and tiresome due to the number of times it is used and the reader is left to guess the swear word they would insert in the blank. 

While the actual quality of the writing (ignoring the over usage of blanked-out words) is good, the pace and plotting are both ploddingly, glacially slow. As a consummate reader, for me to have to try to not doze while reading is a very rare occurrence, yet nod I did. While there were some glimmers of the novel it could have been, alas, this one left a lot to be desire for me. Thanks to Viking/Penguin for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Traveler's Atlas of the World

The Traveler's Atlas of the World by National Geographic
11/4/25; 560 pages 
Disney Publishing Group

The Traveler's Atlas of the World by National Geographic is a beautiful, very highly recommended and educational coffee table book that provides photographs of and travel recommendations for every country in the world. This truly is packed with essential information and everything is accompanied by 300 spectacular photographs and invaluable traveler’s secrets.

The volume covers nearly 200 sovereign countries, island nations, and dependent territories. Each entry is written by a National Geographic travel expert who has spent time or lived in the destination and is, of course, accompanied by incredible photographs as well as 250 illustrated maps. The contents are divided into six sections: North America & The Caribbean; South America; Europe; Asia: Africa; and Australia, Antarctica, & The Pacific. The countries in each section are presented in alphabetical order.

Each entry starts with the name and an illustration of their flag. Across the top of the entry are the capital, area, official language, and currency. This is followed by a description of the area and things to do, which can include historical sites, hikes, cultural treasures, food,  nature retreats, destination spotlights, etc. In each entry there is an illustrated map followed by a list of Fast Facts that cover the following topics: Best Known For; When to Visit; Climate/Weather; Plan Ahead; Best-Kept Secret; and Good to Know. As expected, some entries are longer than others with additional special information about things to see/do, including must do lists, fun road trips, and top ten lists.

At first glance you'll think The Traveler's Atlas of the World is a wonderful educational resource for children, and it most certainly is, but it also has plenty of information for adult travelers, like highlighting wine regions, culinary experiences, and  specialty foods. At the end there is a list and brief biography of the many contributors of the information in the volume, a long list of photo credits, and an index. This would be an excellent and welcomed gift. I know this because it has been picked up and looked at by everyone since it has been sitting on my coffee table.

Thanks to Disney Publishing Group for providing me with a reader's copy in partnership with TLC Book Tours.  My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The King's Ransom

The King's Ransom by Janet Evanovich
11/11/25; 352 pages
Atria Books
The Recovery Agent #2

The King's Ransom by Janet Evanovich is a highly recommended action thriller. This is the second novel featuring Gabriela Rose, following The Recovery Agent, and just as in the first, expect plenty of action, laughs, and escapism.

Investigator Gabriela Rose is a recovery agent, or insurance fraud investigator, it all depends upon the job. She has no problem hunting down just about anything and is hired to find lost heirlooms, treasures, or any missing asset. When her ex-husband Rafer Jones and his cousin, Harley, show up at her place needing her help recovering missing artifacts, how can she say no? The three grew up knowing each other in Scoon, S.C.. 

Harley was the president of a bank and, at the urging of his board, he authorized  insuring some priceless artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, a solid gold sarcophagus, and two Van Gogh paintings, among other items.  Once insured, the pieces started going missing. If they can't be recovered, Harley may be headed to jail as nothing connects the board to his authorization of the insurance policies. 

This fast-paced, entertaining action thriller sends Gabriela, along with Rafer and hapless, but charming Harley, to London, Egypt, and Italy to uncover clues and information to find the missing artifacts, along with uncovering massive corruption and a conspiracy. There are twists, danger, and surprises to keep you focused, which are accompanied by plenty of humor to entertained you. This is a perfect read for escapism, humor, suspense, and a bit of romance. Featuring excellent writing, the plot gallops at a fast pace and keeps racing right to the conclusion. 

Gabriela Rose is witty, intelligent, reliable, cool under pressure, able to think on her feet, and well trained in weapons of all types. There is a bit more character development in this second novel in the series, but really the focus is the action, humor, and entertainment. Personally, I did grow a bit tired of reading about her designer wardrobe this time. Admittedly, you have to set disbelief aside, but that would be expected with a protagonist who can do everything she sets her mine to do. 

The King's Ransom is a get choice for anyone who enjoy thrillers with action, adventure and humor.  Thanks to Atria Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Nash Falls

Nash Falls by David Baldacci
11/11/25; 448 pages
Grand Central Publishing
Walter Nash #1

Nash Falls by David Baldacci is a very highly recommended, un-put-downable thriller and the first book in a new series featuring Walter Nash. 

As the head of acquisitions for Sybaritic Investments, Walter Nash, 40, works hard and makes a very good living. He, his wife Judith, and daughter Maggie live in an upscale gated community. The night after Walter and his family attended the funeral of his estranged father Vietnam veteran Tiberius (Ty), an FBI agent approaches him. They need him to become a whistleblower and their inside man to expose criminal conduct at Sybaritic by chief executive Rhett Temple. Temple is tied to Victoria Steers, an international criminal that the FBI has sought for years. 

Nash will be the fourth man they've had on the inside. The other three died under mysterious circumstances, but Nash has little choice in accepting. He can negotiate the terms, however. Once Nash uncovers the  information they need, he is exposed by someone. The tables are turned against him and they try to ruin him and his life. The FBI suddenly can't help but Nash knows who can help him and has other plans in mind. 

This extremely well-written, fast-paced, intense thriller held my complete attention throughout. I'll be the first to admit that you need to set some disbelief aside, but I willingly did so because the novel is so compelling and well plotted. It starts out as one novel in which a man helps to uncover crime and transforms into a novel where a man is willing to risk everything to seek justice and revenge.

Walter Nash is portrayed as a fully realized individual with strengths and weaknesses who transforms himself in this novel. As a character driven thriller, Nash is a wonderful man to root for. You will wish him success and some measure of peace, if possible. The secondary characters also come to life, with clear distinctions between protagonists and antagonists. 

 Nash Falls is a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys fast-paced character driven thrillers. This is the first book in a new series and I must say it is an impressive start. The one drawback is that ends on a cliffhanger and we'll all have to wait for the conclusion of the story. Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Daughters

Daughters by Corinne Demas
11/11/25;  283 pages
Little A

Daughters by Corinne Demas is a recommended family drama, for the right reader, which focuses on a complicated relationship between mother and daughter.

Meredith (Merry) takes her seven-year-old daughter Eloise and leaves LA and her husband behind. They fly back to New England to permanently stay with her mother Delia and step-father Bob on the family farm. Without any explanation of what happened or why she is there, Meredith looks for support from her mother. Delia is very happy to provide that support but would perhaps appreciate some more information. Once home, Meredith has all manner of childhood resentments surface. She also gets in touch with her old crush, Wylie.

While the cover of the book is beautiful and the writing can be quite good, the plot can be tedious and the relationship between characters is tiresome and unrealistic. Ultimately, an adult married daughter moves home without warning,  doesn't discuss the reasons why with her mother, and then gets angry at her mother for trying to find out the reason while simultaneously caring/cooking for them. Meredith also continues to be upset at being taught to play the violin when young by her violin teacher mother. Meredith's siblings fall into their caricature roles, as does Wylie.

Meredith simply comes across as an immature, entitled youngest daughter who simply expects to be able to do whatever she wants without an explanation. At the same time, it is helpful when Meredith and Eloise help with the farm animals. She has good reasons for leaving that could have been shared with her mother. In fact one of the reasons she should have shared with her immediately as it is often an event that a mother/woman would understand. 

Delia was a much more sympathetic character. She and Bob said of course they could stay, yet Meredith acted like it was an expected entitlement and any plans they might have had should be cancelled for her unexpected arrival. The foolish action Delia takes later in the novel was unbelievable but also could have been easily prevented by five or six words, "Mom, I had a miscarriage" or "Mom, he no longer wants us." Ultimately, the ending provides a satisfying, redemptive story line, but the journey to get there was irksome at times. 

Daughters will be best appreciated by those who enjoy mother/daughter family dramas. Thanks to Little A for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Wild Instinct

Wild Instinct by T. Jefferson Parker
11/11/25; 336 pages
St. Martin's Press/ Minotaur

Wild Instinct by T. Jefferson Parker is a recommended procedural  and the start of what may be a new series introducing Orange County California Sheriff’s Department Detective Lew Gale and his new partner Daniela Mendez.

Lew Gale, a former Marine sniper, is now the detective who is assigned to track and shoot a mountain lion that has reportedly killed a man near Laguna Beach, California. The victim is Bennet Tarlow III, a well-known and wealthy developer. Lew himself even worked for the man and liked him. While out tracking the mountain lion, Lew is called off the task because the coroner has discovered that Bennet was shot. Now he is on a murder investigation with his new partner Daniela Mendez. At the same time Daniela is concerned about her 18-year-old son, Jesse, and who he is hanging out with.

While the opening of this procedural grabs your attention, the pace then slows down to a crawl, not really picking up until much later in the novel. The quality of the writing is very good, but the actual plotting of the novel is lacking and drawn out. The purpose of this book seemed to be to introduce us to new characters for a series, and in that capacity it is successful. We learn all manner of background information about them and their concerns. The actual investigation and search for clues almost seems an afterthought at times, overwhelmed by other events, until late in the novel when it seems a serious investigation is actually taking place.

While they are looking for who killed Bennet, Daniela is secretly tracking the movement of her son, Jesse through his phone and also secretly spying on his activities. There are additional chapters involving a priest.  In Lew's story arch, there are excerpts from a book about his ancestors that Lew is reading. There is almost an over abundance of mentions that Lew is descended from the Acjachemen people, an indigenous tribe of Southern California that is not recognized by the federal government. It is mentioned on nearly every page of the novel. I found the first half very slow but the second half picked up and did have a satisfying ending. 

Wild Instinct may be enjoyed by those who like procedurals and/or follow T. Jefferson Parker's writing. Thanks to St. Martin's Press/ Minotaur for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

I Took Her First

I Took Her First by Samantha Hayes
11/3/25; 360 pages
Bookouture

I Took Her First by Samantha Hayes is a highly recommended psychological thriller. This one will require readers to set aside a huge, heaping dose of disbelief several times while reading, but it will hold your complete attention throughout.

Hannah, an art teacher, is in charge of the after school program one afternoon when Mila, 5, is the last student left, again. Hannah decides to walk Mila over to her house and gives her some milk and cookies. Then she went upstairs briefly and when she came back down Mila was gone. She knows she shouldn't have taken Mila to her house, but now she needs to go to the police to report Mila's kidnapping and face any consequences. The police don't believe Hannah because she's apparently been contacting them frequently. They think she needs to see her doctor for her anxiety.

While it's clear that someone is likely messing with Hannah's sense of well-being and safety, she also seems a little paranoid at times so you won't know at first if she's trustworthy or not, especially after she takes Mila to her house. This starts the roller coaster ride of twists and strange occurrences for both Hannah and her daughter, Jodie, 15. Jodie feels like a real teenager.

The narrative follows both Hannah and Jodie's points-of-view and they both have some suspicious things going on. There are also chapters from the past thrown into the mix with another story line. Everything will coalesce at the end. The pace is fast, with short chapters and it really will hold your complete attention even when your shaking your head over what is happening and suspending disbelief repeatedly. The actual huge twist at the end was a little over the top, although one part of it was predictable. 

All in all I Took Her First is an entertaining psychological thriller. Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Marazion Murders

The Marazion Murders by Sally Rigby
11/6/25; 269 pages
Storm Publishing
Cornwall Murder Mystery #6

The Marazion Murders by Sally Rigby is a highly recommended police procedural/cozy mystery and the sixth book in the Cornwall murder mystery series. It can be read as a standalone novel.

Opening with the story of Thea Drake, an actress whose career ended in 1969 due to drug and alcohol abuse, the narrative then jumps ahead to the present day when a retire actress is found dead at the Silver Fern Care Home/nursing home for retired entertainers. It is determined that Dawn Cross, 92, was poisoned via ethylene glycol in her chocolates. Detective Lauren Pengelly, DS Matt Price, and the team immediately start investigating. Why would someone target Dawn when, reportedly everyone liked her, but, apparently, back in the day she could be a diva. They are making progress in their investigation when another murder occurs.

It's always enjoyable when procedurals actually proceed logically and all the clues are followed. The narrative moves at a fast-pace as the investigation progresses quickly. This is not a complicated procedural, but it is entertaining and well plotted. The uncommon setting makes this almost a locked room mystery as the murderer would have to have access to the nursing home. It also serves to keep the list of suspects limited to some extent, but the identity of the perpetrator is still unpredictable.

Personally, I enjoy the characters in this series. The main characters are well known to those following this series, however, there is enough background information provided for new readers to easily follow along. They are all well-developed as unique individuals.

The Marazion Murders is a great choice for anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries and police procedurals. Thanks to Storm Publishing for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Photographs

National Geographic The Photographs: Iconic Images from National Geographic 
by National Geographic, Foreword by Jimmy Chin 
10/28/25;  464 pages
Disney Publishing Group

National Geographic The Photographs: Iconic Images from National Geographic is a very highly recommended collection of over 250 photographs. This is a perfect gift, especially for anyone who loves photography or has a sense of wonder. The seven photographs in the opening pages leading up to the table of contents will immediately grab your attention and are a perfect introduction to the wonder that awaits you. These include in part: a lion waking up in a tree in Uganda, a sailboat tracing an 1847 voyage to the Northwest Passage through icebergs, a cougar with the Hollywood sign in the background, and an empire penguin chick jumping off a tall iceberg in Antarctica. 

The photographs accompanying the stories found in National Geographic over the years have been a great part of what made the magazine. This iconic collection makes that abundantly clear. For example, it is one thing to read about climbing El Capitan in Yosemite National Park or even see the climbers from a distance, on the ground. It opens up a whole breath taking new world to see the photos from a climber's point of view. Or seeing someone on the 130 foot Sky Ladder in Austria. That is a small part of the wonder and the new worlds National Geographic has helped open through it's photographs over the years.

Parring down all the images National Geographic has published over the years to create a collection is a feat unto itself. As pointed out in 2023 more than 2 million images were taken  by 165 photographers. Of these around 850 were published. For this collection the photographs are groups into five chapters/collections. These include: Adventure & Exploration, The Power to Discover; Wildlife & Conservation, The Power to Protect; People & Culture, The Power to Honor; Landscapes & Environment, The Power to Cherish; and Science & Technology, The Power to Reveal. At the end of the book there are Illustration Credits, a Photography Index, and Information about the contributors. 

Included are interviews with Camille Seaman (iceberg photos), David Doubilet (marine biologist rising through a cloud of nonstinging jellyfish), Erika Larsen, Kris Graves, and Robert Clark. Additionally there are biographies of Jody McDonald (Asian elephant on India's Havelock Island), Carsten Peter (Mexico's Cave of Crystals) Keith Ladzinski, Brian Skerry, Joel Sartore ( Blue waxbills from Mozanbique), Beverly Joubert, Hannah Reyes Morales, Jodi Cobb, Lynn Johnson, Sofia Jaramillo, Frans Lanting, Aaron Huey, Anand Varma, Helene Schmitz, and Nichole Sobecki. 

Noted in parenthesis behind the photographer are a few photos of over 20 I flagged while reading as being ones I found especially intriguing. Obviously I haven't mentioned all the photos I loved, but I especially loved two composite photos. One was made composed of many photos capturing the activity around a water hole in the Serengeti National Park by Stephen Wilkes. Another by Marcio Esteves Cabral was of the Milky Way above a field of wild flowers in Brazil. 

Thanks to Disney Publishing Group for providing me with a reader's copy in partnership with TLC Book Tours.  My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

http://tlcbooktours.com

The Book Club Killer

The Book Club Killer by Ross Greenwood
11/5/25; 384 pages
Boldwood Books  
DI Barton #8

The Book Club Killer by Ross Greenwood is a highly recommended police procedural/mystery and the eight book featuring Detective Inspector Barton. 

After Jones and Singh, a local accounting firm's book club composed of current and former colleagues and their spouses meets before Christmas, Rhys Jones, one of the members and founding owner of the firm, dies that night. Initially it is thought to be a heart attack, but Mortis, the forensic pathologist, lets Barton know that it is suspicious death. It is determined to be a poisoning/drugging. Now Barton and the team need to question the book club members and the group seems to be reluctant to tell it all and are holding all manner of secrets. Barton also reveals that he is planning to retire so this will be his last, big case with the team.  

This is exactly the well written procedural I expected. The investigation logically and intelligently follows all the clues and asks the right questions uncovering many of the secrets the group withheld at their initial questioning. Poisoning someone is very personal, but a clear suspect is not evident at first. Someone is holding a deeply held grudge, but who and why. The plot keeps you guessing as the tension rises when it seems that the killer could strike again. There is some humor and time spent with his family along the way too along with a surprise at the end.

The Book Club Killer is a great choice for anyone who enjoys a well written procedural/mystery. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Perfect Hosts

The Perfect Hosts by Heather Gudenkauf
11/4/25; 320 pages
Park Row Books

The Perfect Hosts by Heather Gudenkauf is a highly recommended mystery/domestic thriller which begins with a gender reveal party turning deadly.

Madeline and Wes Drake in Nightjar Wyoming have invited two hundred guests to their sprawling horse ranch for a lavish, catered gender reveal party. The planned big reveal involves shooting at an old truck to ignite the explosion of pink or blue powder. Instead, the whole truck explodes violently and is closely followed by a second explosion of a barn. The explosion kills Joanna, Madeline’s best friend and midwife, and injures many others, including Madeline, Dix, Wes's brother, and Mellie, a waitress with the catering company. 

Madeline's estranged sister Lucy, shows up right after the explosion which raises eyebrows. Dalton, Joanna's husband, is angry and blames Wes. Mellie says she is pregnant and gloms onto Madeline at the ranch. Into the heat of the aftermath, ATF Special Agent Jamie Saldano is sent to assist in the investigate the explosions. Jamie has a history in Nightjar. He lived there with his mom and sister Juneau for a brief time when he was a young teen. It was where he was nearly beaten to death the night his sister disappeared.

This atmospheric novel is well-plotted, the pace is fast, and it will hold your complete attention. The tension rises throughout the novel and several suspects and motives emerge. There is also an unsettled atmosphere and more than one mystery. Wes Drake has a whole lot of influence and contacts in the area, which makes the investigation into a motive complicated. It seems everyone has an angle to play and a different planned outcome. The narrative is told through four different points-of-view,  Madeline, Lucy, Jamie, and Mellie.  

The characters are multi dimensional and feel like unique, complicated individuals. You aren't sure who you can trust beyond Madeline and Jamie. Several characters are clearly untrustworthy. The reveal of whodunit and the final twist in the novel were both satisfying.

The Perfect Hosts is a great choice for anyone who likes a fast paced mystery/domestic thriller. Thanks to Harlequin/Park Row Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

In the Bones

In the Bones by Tessa Wegert
11/4/25; 288 pages
Severn House
North Country #1

In the Bones by Tessa Wegert is a very highly recommended mystery/procedural and the excellent start of a new North country series. It does share characters with the Shana Merchant series, but I think it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone novel for those not already following the series.

After a big total remodel, ex-professional ice hockey superstar Mikko Helle is moving into the house he bought in New York’s Thousand Islands area last September.  Nicole Durham uses her connection to the realtor to get hired on to clean his house as she needs the money. Nicole's husband, Woody, invested their life savings to be a partner with Helle in a business venture but Nicole is unsure Helle is trustworthy. She can look around as his housekeeper. What she discovers is totally unexpected. There is a young woman phrogging in his house (and she has likely been in others too), but there are also the bones of a young woman hidden deep in the basement of the house.

New York State Police Investigator Tim Wellington along with Shanna, Mac, from the Shana Merchant series, are on the case. Those who have followed the Shana Merchant series will know the characters, but this time out the focus is on Woody, Nicole, and their family/situation as the crew investigates the complex case. It seems there are a lot of secrets that need to be uncovered to find the identity of the phrogger and the murder victim in the basement.

The extremely well-written, atmospheric narrative is told through chapters from multiple points-of-view, which works quite well. Each character has a unique perspective and different information that can help further the investigation and lead to the identity of the murderer. This also serves to further character development, creating fully realized, sympathetic individuals with both strengths and failings revealed. All the characters feel realistic.

The investigation follows a complicated trail of evidence, secrets, misdeeds, lies, and discovery in the complex case. The pace moves quickly and the tension rises as new discovery and piece of information is uncovered, leading to different directions and new areas of inquiry. The whole novel follows the clues to a logical conclusion.

In the Bones is an excellent choice for those who have been following the Shana Merchant series and for everyone who appreciates procedurals. Thanks to Severn House for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Where He Left Me

Where He Left Me by Nicole Baart
11/4/25; 336 pages
Atria Books  

Where He Left Me by Nicole Baart is a very highly recommended, atmospheric domestic thriller.

Newlywed college professors Sadie Sheridan and Felix Graham teach in Iowa but are spending their sabbatical leave at Hemlock House, Felix's remote family house located in Washington State’s North Cascades. When Felix doesn't return from a work trip and storms are moving in, Sadie is stuck on the mountain worried about him. However, she is not alone. Sadie spies two people on their trail camera one night. When she sees them the next night, entering the greenhouse, she goes out to confront them. What she finds are two young people who need help, especially with the escalating storm.

This very well-written atmospheric thriller immediately sets a mysterious, menacing tone at the start and the tension increases as the plot unfolds. The pace is even through most of the novel but the tension grows while the weather worsens. The plot will hold your attention throughout and the twists and revelations will be worth it. Honestly, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this story and I think the quality of the writing had a lot to do with it.

The narrative is told through two timelines. In the present following Sadie's struggles while Felix is missing and in the past when Sadie and Felix meet, leading up to their marriage. It is very clear what timeline you are in while reading. The story of Sadie and Felix meeting and falling in love helps strengthen the present day narrative where Sadie is desperate to know where he is while handling new concerns.

The characters are all portrayed as fully realized individuals with strengths and weaknesses. They all have distinct personalities that are clearly present in their interactions with each other. Sadie's character is developed in both timelines while Felix is mainly developed in the past. The final denouement is very satisfying.

Where He Left Me is a perfect choice for women who enjoy atmospheric domestic thrillers. Thanks to Atria Books/Simon & Schuster  for providing me with an advance reader's copy via Edelweiss. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Queen Esther

Queen Esther by John Irving
11/4/25; 432 pages
Simon & Schuster

Queen Esther by John Irving is recommended only for fans of Irving. This time he tells the story of a fourteen-year-old Jewish orphan, Esther Nacht, who comes from the orphanage in St. Cloud’s, Maine (from The Cider House Rules) to live with Thomas and Constance Winslow and care for their youngest daughter, Honor, in New Hampshire. The bulk of the long-winded novel is ultimately the story of Honor's son James (Jimmy).

Irving covers many of the topics that one expects him to cover in a novel. These topics include: New Hampshire, great literature, religion, prep schools, family relationships, identity, sexuality, abortion, politics, cultural changes, etc., and anti-Semitism. Irving previously indicated that The Last Chairlift  would be his last long novel and he should have held firm to that statement. I'll be honest, I had to force myself to keep reading this novel. The three star rating is to pay homage to Irving's body of work rather than a rating for this individual novel.

Queen Esther is recommended only for long time fans of Irving's work. Thanks to Simon & Schuster for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

My Husband Next Door

My Husband Next Door by K L Slater
10/28/25; 376 pages
Bookouture

My Husband Next Door by K L Slater is a highly recommended domestic psychological thriller. 

Sylvie and Matt are married but still maintain their own households. They live two houses apart on the same street so they can see each other daily, but have their own spaces. When Jess, Sylvie's daughter, gives birth she has medical complications and stays with Sylvie to help while her boyfriend Ed is on a job. When new neighbor and retired nurse Brenda stops by one morning, she immediately sees something is wrong and steps in to help with the baby, Scarlet Mae, while Sylvie gets Jess to the hospital. 

At first Brenda is helpful, especially when Sylvie has a sudden medical emergency while Jess is recovering, but from this point on, Brenda inserts herself into their lives, taking over. Matt and Brenda don't like each other and he wants Brenda out of their lives. When Sylvie finally sets boundaries with Brenda, Brenda begins to insinuate that Matt's up to something. 

Before this a young woman, Ellie, has gone missing and everyone is on edge, especially when another young woman is missing.  DI Price and DS Brewster are on the case, investigating and searching for clues.

There is a lot going on in this fast-paced, twisty domestic thriller and the pages will fly by quickly. There is a sense of foreboding as the plot unfolds, secrets are held, and suspicions rise over several characters and actions. You will have to set disbelief aside several times, but that is relatively easily done due to the quick pace. Chapters are mainly through the point-of-view of Sylvie and Brenda, with some chapters following the police investigation and some following Ellie and her abductor.

All the characters are portrayed as believable, unique individuals with strengths and flaws. The bond between Sylvie and Jess is well done, along with the addition of baby Scarlet Mae. Brenda's love-bombing and desperate need to be needed is, quite frankly, extremely annoying. Helping during the first emergency was believable, but after that most people would be calling a friend or neighbor they know for help rather than having a stranger insert herself into their daily lives. This is the first and largest unbelievable event you have to accept. 

Admittedly, I predicted the ending early on, but it was still an entertaining novel. My Husband Next Door would be a good choice for anyone who enjoys domestic psychological thrillers. Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Poison Wood

Poison Wood by Jennifer Moorhead
10/28/25; 351 pages
Thomas & Mercer

Poison Wood by Jennifer Moorhead is a very highly recommended investigative mystery. This continues the story of crime reporter Rita Meade from  Broken Bayou but it can be read as a standalone novel. It surprised me how much I ended up enjoying Poison Wood.

Rita Meade learns that a skull has been found on the property of the Poison Wood Therapeutic Academy for Girls which was located in the Kisatchie National Forest in central Louisiana. The home was closed in 2002 when a young girl went missing and was presumed dead, which Rita remembers well. As a teenager Rita was sent to Poison Wood by her father, who was a judge and she was there in 2002. Many of Rita's classmates were also the offspring of powerful, influential families. 

A man confessed and was convicted for the murder of the missing girl but the discovery of a body in Florida changes everything. The body is identified as that of the missing teen, but the woman has been living under another name. Rita is back in the area because her father had a heart attack. Her old roommates Katrina and Summer also happen to be back in the area. While there Rita begins to investigate the mysteries surrounding Poison Wood along with the identity of the skull. She's not officially working on the case as a reporter, but she is still working hard to uncover information.

This well written, atmospheric investigative mystery starts out interesting and gets incrementally better with each turn of the page. The pace is even at first and then quickly becomes fast-paced while the narrative is more compelling and intense. In-between present day action are journal entries from their time at Poison Wood written by the teens under pseudonyms. There are actually multiple mysteries going on and, although you might have predictions, the final denouement is not predictable.

Rita is a complex, fully realized character with both strengths and weaknesses. She's shown as an adult and successful reporter but also as a daughter with a complicated relationship with her father. The rest of the characters are also portrayed as complex individuals. All the interactions between characters are well done and realistic, which helps keep interest high in the narrative. The investigation follows clues and discoveries logically. I'll be looking forward to Moorhead's next book.

Poison Wood is a great choice for those who enjoy investigative mysteries. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

After That, the Dark

After That, the Dark by Andrew Klavan
10/28/25; 336 pages
Penzler Publishers/Mysterious Press
Cameron Winter #5 

After That, the Dark by Andrew Klavan is an excellent, very highly recommended investigative mystery and a love story. This is the fifth novel in the series featuring Cameron Winter, the ex-spy turned English professor who has a “strange habit of mind.” Those following the series will be richly rewarded with this exceptional addition to it, however, it can also be enjoyed as a standalone novel - although you'll then want to go back and read the whole series. 

Cameron Winter takes a risk asking out Gwendolyn Lord, while also continuing to share trauma from his violent past with therapist Margaret Whitaker. The two immediately connect and after Winter shares some of his background with her, Gwendolyn tells him a story she’s just heard from her friend forensic psychologist Livy Swain. It is a true locked room mystery. Apparently Owen McKay, arrested six months ago in Tulsa, Oklahoma, for killing his wife and son was shot to death with a nail gun inside his closely watched padded, unfurnished prison cell. McKay was crying, “It’s still there! Still there!,” when arrested. 

Winter has what he calls "a strange habit of mind." He is able to look at a situation from all angles, deduce how the complicated clues fit together, and reach a clear understanding of what actually happened. He decides to look into McKay's case which leads him to discover officials being intimidated by a killer Winter knows as Tat Man, another similar case in another state, and into a tangled connection of the present with his past.

The novel is extremely well-written, fast paced, and well plotted. Clues are logically followed and Winter uses his abilities and connections to discover information and leads others might miss. He faces several intense, violent, aggressive situations, including encounters with Tat Man, a sleazy lawyer, and a corrupt billionaire. Along the way he has some humorous encounters with his nemesis, university diversity officer Lori Lesser, and meetings with undercover operator, Stan-Stan Stankowski. The Recruiter also makes an appearance.

This is a marvelous continuation of Cameron Winter's story arch. Winter is a poet and a cerebral man who just happens to also have the skills of a trained assassin. Following his new burgeoning relationship with Gwendolyn was something new, but welcome for the continuing series. At this point Winter is a complex, fully realized character and his strengths and weaknesses are well known. The Cameron Winter series consists of When Christmas Comes, A Strange Habit of Mind, The House of Love and Death, A Woman Underground, and After That, the Dark.

After That, the Dark is a wonderful choice for anyone who enjoys investigative mysteries and for those already following the series. Thanks to Penzler Publishing/Mysterious Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Proving Ground

The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly
10/21/25; 400 pages
Little, Brown and Company
Lincoln Lawyer Series #8

The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly is an exceptional, very highly recommended legal thriller and the eighth installment of the Lincoln Lawyer series. The Proving Ground can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. This time Mickey Haller takes on artificial intelligence in a civil court case. This is one of the best books I've read this year.

Haller is representing Brenda Randolph, the mother of Rebecca, a teenager who was killed by Aaron Colton after his Clair chatbot, who he named Wren, told him it was okay to kill her for her disloyalty. They have a wrongful death lawsuit against Tidalwaiv, the AI company that created the AI chatbot program Clair, said to be for ages 13 and up. Brenda wants Tidalwaiv to admit their culpability, take accountability for wrongdoing and apologize rather than just a financial settlement. 

The case involves the mostly unregulated AI business and the lack of guardrails. Guardrails ensure AI systems behave responsibly and safely to detect and mitigate risks. Journalist Jack McEvoy joins the team in hopes of writing a book about it and his work going through discovery materials uncovers a key witness, a whistleblower who has been too afraid to speak up. Anyone involved with the case is also likely under some kind of surveillance, thus the team needs to work in a Faraday cage they made.

This exceptionally well-written, brilliant, gripping legal thriller is un-put-downable. I was completely engrossed in the story, especially as the plot felt like it was ripped straight from current headlines, and stayed up way-too-late reading. Following Haller's intelligent, strategic approach to expose the truth and obtain justice is engaging. The courtroom scenes are riveting and intriguing. Even the subplots are interesting. Readers following the series will know all the characters and their background, but those new to the series can easily follow who's who. Mickey Haller and those on his team are all great characters. 

The Proving Ground is an extraordinary legal thriller. Everyone, read this book. Thanks to Little, Brown and Company for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Surgeon

The Surgeon by John Nicholl
10/19/25; 266 pages
Boldwood Books 

The Surgeon by John Nicholl is a highly recommended disturbing psychological thriller following a man out for revenge.

Professor Alexander Aitken was a consultant surgeon but he has been in jail for five years for killing Holly Larkin, a murder he didn't commit. He was never caught for the murders he did commit. Now he has had time to plan his revenge so when the real perpetrator comes forward, and he is released it is time to set his plans into motion. Detective Inspector Laura Kesey is high on his list of those who must pay.

This is a dark, disturbing thriller which moves at at an even pace and the tension increases incrementally. This is a really unsettling novel that is quite graphic at times. The suspense and the tension build throughout the novel to a satisfying conclusion. It is a short novel, which makes it a fast read. This was good for me because I felt it was too gruesome at times.

The narrative is told through multiple first person points-of-view through different characters in each short chapter. This writing choice allows you to understand what each character is thinking along the way and helps with character development, portraying each one as an unique individual with strengths and weaknesses. The multiple viewpoints wasn't entirely successful for me, I felt like there were too many viewpoints, but it did add depth to the characters and didn't detract from the story.

The Surgeon by John Nicholl is a good choice for those who enjoy a revenge based psychological thriller. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

It's Me or Her

It's Me or Her by Victoria Jenkins
10/1/25; 291 pages
Bookouture

It's Me or Her by Victoria Jenkins is a highly recommended popcorn thriller. 

Daisy was working at the department store when she first met Andrew and helped him pick out a gift for his mother. Later, she is mugged and her purse is stolen when leaving work. On the train ride home she meets Andrew again and the two eventually go out on a date. When she has dinner at Andrew's house one night she learns his mother, Rachel, lives with him. Their relationship gets more serious so when a problem occurs at Daisy's apartment, Andrew suggests she stay at his house. That's when things really begin to go wrong. 

Aisha, Daisy's best friend, is a sounding board for Daisy and the two share all their thoughts with each other. There are chapters with an alternate story line about an unnamed woman going to a care home to see Liam who has locked in syndrome and is unable to talk after an accident. He can communicate with eye movements and an alphabet board. He never seems happy to see his visitor. The two story lines eventually connect.

This is a fast paced thriller with short chapters. In some ways it's almost too fast-paced, losing some depth and credibility along the way, but certainly ramps up the tension quickly. There are plenty of twists and secrets being kept by everyone. It is entertaining and the pages will fly by quickly. You will have doubts about every character and their actions.

It's Me or Her is a good choice for those who like short, fast-paced popcorn thrillers. Thanks to Bookouture for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Impostor Syndrome

Impostor Syndrome by Andrew Mayne
10/21/25; 288 pages
Thomas & Mercer
The Specialists #2

Impostor Syndrome by Andrew Mayne is a very highly recommended investigative thriller. I was totally engrossed from the start and thoroughly enjoyed it. This is the second book in The Specialists series which teams up former FBI Agent Jessica Blackwood and police investigator Sloan McPherson who is with the Florida Underwater Investigation Unit.  Impostor Syndrome can easily be enjoyed as a standalone novel.

When a Nevada wildlife ranger discovers the body of a popular influencer encase in an obelisk made of salt in a remote part of the Sheldon National Wildlife Refuge the FBI is immediately contacted. The FBI calls on former agent Jessica Blackwood to assist local agents to look into the death. Then they learn through a picture about another death of another influencer, this time underwater. Jessica calls Sloan to assist her with the investigation and the two find the body chained to the bottom of Nevada’s Pyramid Lake. Then they learn about a third attack against a game live streamer who barely survived a pipe bomb attack. It is very clear to Jessica and Sloan that there is a connection between victims and something much bigger is being planned.

The pace is fast and the engaging plot is compelling and clever throughout this exceptionally well-written thriller. The twists occur naturally and the ending is not predictable, which I appreciated and this alone increased my enjoyment. Jessica and Sloan work well together and it is entertaining to see them piecing together clues, using their instincts, and following up on the information they uncover. They are both intelligent, fearless investigators and are portrayed as fully realized unique individuals with strengths and weaknesses.

As an aside, I also appreciated Mayne keeping details realistic. For example when Jessica and Sloan went out on Pyramid Lake and had tribal police officer/ranger approach them, I immediately appreciated the novel even more. The lake is part of the reservation and you have to go through the Paiute Tribe and get a permit or be a guest of a tribal member. Many authors use a place but don't know information and details about the area which can be annoying for this reader. I applaud any author who does their research or knows the details.

Impostor Syndrome is a perfect choice for those who enjoy well-written, engaging investigative thrillers. I'm looking forward to Mayne's next book. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Widow

The Widow by John Grisham
10/21/25; 416 pages
Doubleday 

The Widow by John Grisham is an excellent, very highly recommended legal drama and crime mystery. This is un-put-downable, held my complete attention, and kept me up reading late into the night. 

Simon Latch has been a small town lawyer in Braxton, Virginia for 18 years who manages to make a living by writing wills and handling bankruptcies. His marriage is in shambles and he has a gambling problem. When Eleanor (Netty) Barnett, an 85-year-old widow, walks into his office wanting him to write a new will for her, he's prepared to churn out another standard boiler plate will until she intimates that her needs are different. She claims her deceased husband left her something like $20 million though cash and stock in Coca-Cola and Walmart. 

Another Lawyer in town, Wally Thackerman, has previously written a will for her, but she wasn't happy with it. When Simon looked at the will previously written he saw that Thackerman had a clause rewarding himself a large payout from it. Netty also wants her stepsons, Clyde and Jerry Korsak, to get nothing and has no other relatives, so Simon writes her a will that will donate money to local causes but also allows him to charge double his normal rate managing the estate. 

Simon has never seen proof that Netty's wealth exists, but he still forges a congenial relationship with her, taking her out for lunches. She quickly becomes more trouble as Simon handles other issues that she has, while still not receiving any payment from her. When she is hospitalized after a car accident and later dies, Simon is charged with a murder he didn't commit and must try to exonerate himself while looking for the real killer.

This exceptionally well-written novel is presented in three distinct parts. The first third introduces readers to Simon, a very flawed character, who struggles with every aspect of his life but hopes he will end up making bank through Eleanor/Netty. He may be far from a saint, but he is not malevolent. He's just an average guy who is gambling too much, ending his marriage, and maybe cutting a few corners trying to get by. The next third is the legal courtroom drama, which is excellent. The final third is solving the whodunit mystery, which is also excellent and compelling.

I was engrossed in The Widow from start to finish and thought it was superbly plotted and structured. Simon's flaws are on full display at the beginning but his character does experience growth and redemption in the final third. This is a perfect choice for those who like courtroom dramas mixed with a mystery. Thanks to Doubleday for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.