Washed Away

 

Washed Away by Geoff Williams
2/5/13; 336 pages
Pegasus Books 

Washed Away by Geoff Williams is a highly recommended collection of personal stories of individuals in the areas affected by the natural disaster and flooding which began on Easter Sunday, March 23, 1913.

These storms covered a large swath of the United States and represent the second deadliest flood in history. With the ground already saturated or frozen, the flooding which started quickly, was followed by 4-5 more days of rain. The opening salvo of the devastation, started with a series of tornadoes in and near Omaha, Nebraska, where 150 people were killed and 400 injured. The rain was followed by a blizzard. A high pressure system from the Arctic Circle invaded Canada and then severe winds and storms slammed the Midwest, East, and Northeast. Rivers reach miles wide proportions. People drowned in their attics. In Columbus, Ohio, 15,000-20,000 homes washed away. Over 700 people died, millions were left homeless, and hundreds of thousands of homes and buildings were destroyed,

The destruction extended to Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Arkansas, Louisiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, New York, New Jersey, and Vermont. Fourteen states in all, and every major and minor river east of the Mississippi. The majority of the stories told are from the people who lived in Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Akron, Ohio, and Forte Wayne and Indianapolis, Indiana, which were harder hit areas. There are also some stories from other cities and towns, some further down river. This is a flood that instigated the start of better flood control techniques for the region, while also shaping America's natural-disaster policies for the next century.

Without a reliable system in place to provide warnings or information, people had to react to what was happening as it happened. This resulted in the flood, although widespread, being viewed as more of a local disaster rather than a nation-wide event. Weather geeks will disappointed to not have a lot of data provided and a detailed meteorological discussion, which, yes, I missed. However, once it became clear this was going to be focused on the stories of individuals who lived through it, I settled into the author's wishes. 

This is a collection of the many stories of what real people experienced and saw during the disaster. As other's have mentioned, I do think it would have benefited from some maps. The organization is broken down into the day over a week, from March 23rd to March 29th of 1913, and then the subsequent chapters of experiences in individual cities and towns. Included after the novel is Notes and Research (a lot of newspaper stories) and an Index.

Washed Away will be appreciated by those who enjoy history from a personal viewpoint, people who are living in the affected areas or those with families who lived there, and history buffs.  (Continuing my short break between advanced readers copies and working my way through my TBR stacks from years past.)

Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter

 

Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin
10/5/10; 304 pages
William Morrow 

Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter by Tom Franklin is an exceptional, very highly recommended character driven literary mystery. This is a must read extraordinary novel.

When Tina Rutherford, 19, goes missing, Larry Ott, 41, is the immediate and only suspect. "Scary Larry" lives an isolated, lonely existence in rural Mississippi where he is a mechanic. He enjoys reading, cares for his chickens, is ostracized by the community, goes to the garage daily waiting for some work, and visits his mother who is in a nursing home. Years ago when he was 16 he took Cindy Walker on a date. She disappeared afterward and he has always been blamed for her presumed murder. He keeps a file of the subpoenas Gerald County Chief Inspector Roy French serves him with anytime anything happens.

Years ago Larry and Silas "32" Jones were friends of a sort for several months in the 1970's. Larry was the only bookish child of a lower middle class white parents. His father was a mechanic, but Larry much preferred reading. Silas was the son of a poor, single black mother who lived in a cabin on their land. After Cindy Walker disappeared, their friendship ended and Silas went on to become a baseball star, number 32. Now Silas is back as the Constable of Chabot, MS and the sole law enforcement officer in the area. Larry has tried to contact him several times, but Silas studiously ignores all his attempts. The investigation into the disappearance of Tina Rutherford will force both men to confront the past they've buried and ignored for decades.

The writing is excellent, the plot compelling, the character development is outstanding, the final denouement is a breath-taking revelation. I can't say enough good things about Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter. The plot unfolds through alternate narratives from the past and the present, which all come together to solve the mysteries and reveal something even more surprising and unpredictable. All of the descriptions are so rich that the setting, time period, and characters come to life. Your heart will break for Larry, both in the past and present.

There are clues to follow in the current mystery, but the magic is in the writing and the character development. Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter is a perfect selection for everyone who enjoys wonderful writing and excellent character development. (This novel represents another reason I'm continuing my short break between advanced readers copies and working my way through my TBR stacks from years past.)

The Whore's Child: Stories

 

The Whore's Child: Stories by Richard Russo
12/18/2007; 240 pages
Knopf Doubleday 

The Whore's Child: Stories by Richard Russo is an excellent, very highly recommended collection of seven short stories. 

Even within the constraints of an abbreviated short story, all of the selections feature Russo's masterful ability to portray characters as complicated, realistic individuals with both strengths and weaknesses, along with his keen insight into human nature. This collection serves to highlight Russo's incredible talent and ability to write. All of these stories could easily have been the beginning of a great novel.

Stories:
The Whore’s Child: Sister Ursala attends a fiction writing class and writes her memoir.
Monhegan Light: Martin travels to the island where his deceased wife vacationed every year.
The Farther You Go: A man and his wife deal with a family problem together.
Joy Ride: A mother and son leave their home and travel cross country.
Buoyancy: Retired Professor Paul Snow and his wife June stay on an island they last visited 30 years ago.
Poison: Old friends recall the poisoning of the land where they grew up.
The Mysteries of Linwood Hart: This story is broken into smaller subtitles and features the thoughts, activities, and musings of Lin as he plays baseball while experiencing family issues.

The Whore's Child is a perfect choice for everyone who enjoys well-written short stories. (Continuing my short break between advanced readers copies and working my way through my TBR stacks from years past.)

Chickens, Mules and Two Old Fools

 

Chickens, Mules and Two Old Fools by Victoria Twead
1/1/09; 196 pages
New Generation Publishing 

Chickens, Mules and Two Old Fools by Victoria Twead is a light hearted, easy-to-read memoir of a British couple moving to a small town in Spain. Along with mildly humorous stories about their lives, it also includes recipes and some pictures. 

Joe and Vicky, in their early 50's (so not really old), decide to relocating to a tiny mountain village of El Hoyo in Andalucía. They are calling it the 5 year plan. If, after five years they have had enough, they leave. Along the way they meet ex-pat Judith, who lives in the area with her mother, Kurt, the German unofficial estate agent, and neighbors Paco and Carmen/Bethina, along with an assortment of others. While fixing up and modernizing a deteriorating old house, they meet many area cats and dogs, some mules, and decide to raise chickens. The chickens result in a new enterprise, selling eggs to their neighbors. They also have friends visiting and keeping things entertaining.

The start of each chapter includes the name of a traditional Spanish recipe. All of the recipes were donated by the village ladies and are found at the end of the book. Those who enjoy trying new recipes should appreciate that aspect of this memoir. For me. this is a good natured, light hearted amusing book, not a hilarious one. It is an enjoyable book to read but ultimately forgettable unless you love to try new recipes and chicken stories. Everyone who has chickens has chicken stories and Vicky is no exception to that rule. 

There are apparently several "Two Old Fools" books, so those who enjoy this one could follow it up with more adventures, including book #6, published in 2022, covering a move to Australia. I believe I'll stop with this one, but I'm an outlier because this series seems beloved by many. (Still on a short break between advanced readers copies and working my way through my TBR stacks from years past.)

A Land More Kind Than Home

 

A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash
4/17/12; 309 pages
William Morrow 

A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash is an excellent, very highly recommended Southern literary drama following two brothers who in 1986, face evil disguised as good.

In the small North Carolina town of Marshall, in Madison County, Adelaide Lyle, 81, a long-time midwife recognizes that Pastor Carson Chambliss and his new River Road Church of Christ in Signs and Wonders is not a safe place for children after she witnesses the death of a parishioner, so she takes and cares for the children in her own personal Sunday School during the service. Chambliss, who is relatively new to the area believes in snake handling among other things. 

The sons of Ben and Julie Hall, Jess, 9, and his brother Stump (Christopher), 13, who is mute and likely autistic, witness something they shouldn't have. Now Pastor Chambliss is making sure Stump pays a price for it, sending someone to get him for church because "it is his special day." Stump's fate ends up attracting the attention of Clem Barefield, Sheriff of Madison County since 1961, who can no longer ignore what is happening in the church. He has an old tragedy tied to the Hall family but now must face a new one.

The exceptionally well-written narrative is told through the personal stories of Adelaide, Jess, and Clem, covering events both in the present and the past. Their individual points-of-view propel the plot forward and provide all the information and background needed. They are all facing an evil trying to portray itself as good, but our narrators, including young Jess, understand and recognize the darkness. The very different perception and experience of the narrators helps set this novel above the ordinary. The plot is compelling and once you start reading it is impossible to put this novel down. 

The characters are all portrayed as unique, complex individuals with both strengths and weaknesses. Both Adelaide and Clem have a life time of experience and history to work through while dealing with the current tragedy. Young Jess is the most sympathetic character because of his immaturity. His exposure to the evil events portrayed will effect his entire life, but one can hope that it will also give him the insight to see evil when it presents itself. 

A Land More Kind Than Home by Wiley Cash is an excellent literary Southern drama and deserves all the accolades from readers it has received over the years. This is another winner as I continue to take a break between advanced readers copies and read some novels I own and have been planning to read for years. 

Ordinary Grace

 

Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
307 pages; 3/26/13
Atria Books

Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger is an exceptional, very highly recommended domestic drama/historical fiction set in 1961 when several deaths leave characters questioning the terrible price of wisdom and the nature of God's grace. 

“That was it. That was all of it. A grace so ordinary there was no reason at all to remember it. Yet I have never across the forty years since it was spoken forgotten a single word.”   

Frank Drum is looking back on the summer of 1961 in New Bremen, Minnesota, when he was 13. Bobby Cole, a young contemporary of theirs was killed on the train tracks. This started a summer where four more deaths would occur. Frank's father Nathan Drum was going to be a lawyer, but WWII changed him and now he is a minister for three local Methodist churches. His mother Ruth has a beautiful voice and handles the church music, sister Ariel, 18, is a gifted pianist and musician who is headed to Julliard in the fall, and his younger brother and almost constant companion, Jake is 11 and has a stutter. 

This is a beautifully written novel that covers a myriad of topics as an adult looks back at the boy he was when he encountered some very adult lessons, and everyone's faith is tested as tragedy strikes. This is not a murder mystery as it is much more concerned with the in-depth character development of everyone, but especially that of Frank and Jake as they are being suddenly thrust into maturity while noticing adult failings, lies, and secrets all around them, some of which are still beyond their complete understanding. And all of the characters have to deal with the question of the awful grace of God and what that means.

The setting is also part of the novel and a small town in rural Minnesota during the early 1960s is perfectly captured. The kids in the neighborhood are walking to the train tracks, down to the river, and walking all over town. They can freely overhear discussions between adults that they are perhaps not ready for and watch adults do some questionable actions. Some of what Frank believes is true based on his limited knowledge and experience is later proven false. He also has to watch the adults around him struggle with their own faith during the challenges they face. 

Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger is an excellent, must-read novel and it is clear why it is so very highly recommended.  This is another winner as I continue to take a break between advanced readers copies and read some novels I own and have been planning to read for years. 

Eleanor & Park

 

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
2/26/13; 336 pages
St. Martin's Press 

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell is a very highly recommended story of a first love between two misfits set over the course of a school year in Omaha during 1986. 

Eleanor and Park, both 16, meet when, as the new kid, Eleanor, is looking for a seat on the bus where every seat is claimed by someone else. Park, sitting toward the back of the bus, just happens to not have a seat mate. The driver is yelling at her to sit and she ends up next to Park. Park is a half-Korean fan of comic books and alternative music. Eleanor is tall, big girl with a mane of curly red hair and a unique style of dressing. They don't talk for a long time, until Park notices that Eleanor is surreptitiously also reading his comic books. He begins to turn the pages slower, to make sure she's able to follow. Soon he's sharing his comic books with her, then music, and eventually they begin to talk.

The two have a very different background and home life. Park has a relatively normal home life, a few friends, and wears mostly black t-shirts featuring bands. Eleanor's home life is a struggle and she doesn't share this information. Her mother remarried an abusive, drunkard jerk of a stepfather, Richie, who kicked her out of the house last year. Now she and her five siblings all share one bedroom, eat right after school, and avoid him at all costs. Now, being the new, very different girl also makes her a target at her new high school. 

The narrative is told through the alternating points-of-view of Park and Eleanor in this is a well-written, emotionally wrenching story of a very awkward first love set during one socially anxious year of high school. Even while they know they are falling in love, they are both cautious of what they say to each other, afraid it is the wrong thing or said in the wrong way. Park does not know the truth of Eleanor's home life. The time period is perfectly captured and the dialogue between the two is pitch perfect. Yeah, I cried.

Generally classified as a YA novel, it easily crosses over into an adult novel, especially toward the end. I bought this years ago on a strong recommendation and, as I've hit a place where I'm trying to do a little catch-up reading on novels I never got to, it was on my short list to finally read. I am so glad I did and now I understand why it was so highly recommended. It covers a myriad of emotional topics with characters already experiencing one of the most emotional periods of their lives. 

Mammoth

 

Mammoth by John Varley
6/7/05; 353 pages
Ace 

Mammoth by John Varley is a very highly recommended thriller with science fiction and time travel plot elements. Seriously, why did I wait so long to read this fun, engaging science fiction story? I bought a copy years ago and finally read it now...

Multimillionaire Howard Christian's head of mammoth recovery has just found a frozen, perfectly persevered specimen of a mammoth in Nunavut. The only problem is the two bodies by it. One body is of a man wearing a wristwatch with a metal suitcase who is over, protecting another the body of a woman. While trying to keep everything secret, Christian's troubleshooter Warburton is sent to bring in professor Matthew (Matt) Wright, the top man concerning the physics of time, to see if he can get the time machine working again. He also brings in Susan Morgan DVM and elephant specialist because he plans to start a mammoth cloning project. What he plans and ends up getting results in a seriously entertaining adventure.

Included in between the chapters of the novel is a children's story about a family of mammoths, including Big Mama and Little Fuzzy. The children's story will be important to the upcoming plot. Also, readers need to note that the novel starts with chapter five. Don't look for the missing chapters. They will be there at the end of the novel where they intentionally belong. 

This is a well-written, entertaining, engrossing story. The plot was attention grabbing right away and kept me immersed in the action from start to finish. It was quite easy to suspend all disbelief and simply be entertained while enjoying the narrative. I liked the wide variety of characters, who were all portrayed realistically as individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses.

Mammoth is a great choice for those who enjoy science fiction thrillers that include some time travel (and some discussion of what UFOs are.)

Murder of a Beekeeper

 

Murder of a Beekeeper by P.F. Ford
12/1/26; 270 pages (est.)
Joffe Books 

Murder of a Beekeeper by P.F. Ford is a highly recommended cozy mystery featuring retired detective Norman Norman and his wife Faye.

Norman and Faye moved 2 months ago to Pontefelin, Wales, where he is working on establishing a garden for the first time and walking their dog, Trudy. Faye, who was a journalist, is now a part time secretary at the Woman's Institute (WI) area office. The benefit of Faye's part time job is that she is there for all the rumors and gossip that flies through a small village. Apparently, Evan Griffths, a local beekeeper, has had bees dying and he very vocally blamed Elin Thomas, a local herbalist. Megan Jones, the niece of Evan, is living with him after a business failure and bought a whole lot of cleaning supplies. Norman also uncovers information when walking Trudy, for example Gwenllian's dog Betsy was poisoned and she blames Sian Powell and his iffy compost.

Then Trudy alert him to something wrong and Norman finds Evan dead, by his beehives. As a retired DS, he also notices several other clues such as the funny looking compost on the ground by the hives and the wet clay on Evan's boots. He points out what he notices to Detective Llewellyn, who is sure the death is from natural causes and is dismissive of Norman's observations and experience. This sets both Norman and Faye into action as they carefully conduct their own investigation, working their way through the many feuds and rumors in the village. 

This is a rather charming cozy mystery that I found quite appealing. It doesn't have the tension, gruesome crime scenes, frantic pace, and numerous twists often found in more gritty police procedurals, but what it does have is a steady, gentle pace, and a low key, careful investigation by Norman and Faye. Much of the sleuthing is done while dog walking, attending WI or Garden Club meetings, at the pub, or church. This is my first Norman Norman book, so I have no idea if his current pace reflects his previous police work. It does fit a certain reading niche when you need something more gentle, but still very engaging to read. 

Norman's concern and worry over starting his garden was quite humorous, especially if you've been gardening for years without a second thought. Trudy's digging in the garden or by the fence was also a nice touch and felt like a realistic touch that kept the mystery grounded in people simply living their lives while simultaneously solving a murder mystery. This is the start of a new series.

Murder of a Beekeeper is a wonderful choice for those who like cozy mysteries set in Wales. Thanks to Joffe Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Woman in Car 13

 

The Woman in Car 13 by D E White
12/3/26; 288 pages
Boldwood Books 

The Woman in Car 13 by D E White is a highly recommended thriller, part physical, part psychological. In the prologue, Hannah is working late at night at Jex Diagnostics, a research and healthcare company when she receives a text warning her: "Be careful Hannah. They know what you are doing." 

The next day, Kayla, a single mom who cleans homes and also works part time for the fair is waiting for her ice cream freezer to be repaired so she takes a ride on the Big Wheel. Suddenly the wheel stops and she finds herself in car 13, fifteen meters above the ground. Her first thought is for her daughter Millie, then she texts Alun, her boss, and asks how long before the fix. He's sent his brother Danny for the part and says 20 minutes, so Kayla looks around at her lofty view and pulls out her phone to film. When she sees her employer and friend, Hannah, out jogging being suddenly escorted into a black car by three men, she is shocked. Does she recognize the driver? Has she just witnessed a kidnapping?

Kayla's neighbor Mr. Avers, who works at the Medical Regulation Authority, can hear the screams from the park. He is in a moral dilemma. Close to retirement, he's allowed himself to be paid, and now physically threatened, to ignore anomalies in the data. At this time, Kayla, and the other riders on the wheel, after experiencing some starts and stops, they are still trapped long past the 20 minutes. Now, when Kayla's about four meters above the ground, the whole Big Wheel begins to fall sideways, injuring and trapping the riders. Kayla is trapped, unable to contact Hannah to see if she is okay, she finds a friend to pick up Millie from school and awaits rescue with the others.

Having Kayla trapped on the Big Wheel is a successfully used plot device to grab your attention. It also serves to allow her to witness something that looks nefarious while she's unable to act and introduces some minor characters. The real plot/point of the novel is something entirely different and involves a global conspiracy involving Jex Diagnostics. Each chapter is through a different character's point-of-view, allowing the reader to piece together the greater conspiracy going on and how several characters are involved, even peripherally, in the larger picture. 

The tension over the conspiracy, although ultimately this is a bigger, more dangerous and far reaching element, never quite meets the sense of danger and tension that readers will experience from the opening and subsequent Big Wheel stopping and then falling. A fear of heights is real and used effectively within the novel. The action does pick up again, the sense of danger takes a new form, all the various plot points come together at the end, and there are several surprising twists. The conclusion was very satisfying.

Kayla is a fully realized character with strengths and weaknesses. She's intelligent and you will wish her the best as you learn about her background as she struggles just to get by and care for her daughter. This helps hold your attention. The other minor characters also receive some further development to portray them as individuals and hold your attention while the bigger conspiracy is revealed. 

The Woman in Car 13 is a great choice for those who enjoy thrillers involving conspiracies. 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 Pact

 

The Pact by Teri Terry
12/1/26; 304 pages
Boldwood Books 

The Pact by Teri Terry is a recommended psychological thriller. Get the popcorn ready, grab a seltzer, set disbelief aside, and prepared for an entertaining, soapy drama.

Isobel is found dead at the foot of the cliff where seventeen years ago her boarding school mate Maggie died after a fall from a cliff. Both deaths were ruled a suicide. Four former friends from the same boarding school, Clem, Bex, Katya, and Jules, are preparing to attend Isobel's funeral and also remembering the pact they made to never speak about what happened  to Maggie all those years ago. Now they have all received the same anonymous  text, "One is for sorrow," after Isobels death, and the vaguely sinister messages continues. Does someone know what happened years ago?

The narrative is told through chapters from the point-of-view of Clem and Bex. All of these women are very different characters. Bex has two kids, Olly, 5, and Nora, 1 1/2, is heading toward a contentious divorce, and trying to work full time. This is in stark contrast to the other women. Clem is wealthy, the wife of an MP, and has 3 children and a nanny to watch them. Jules is a wealthy designer, and Katya coaches athletes for Olympic competition. Clem, Jules and Isobel were the fast friends from their boarding school days, with Bex, and Katya on the sideline. Bex really had little contact with these woman after school beyond some with her former roommate Katya.  

You have to set disbelief aside while reading. Personally, I struggled with Bex suddenly starting a relationship with Liam. It seemed very unrealistic considering her situation, so it is clearly a plot device to add suspense. It did the job, but at a cost. It also stretched credulity for me that these women would all group together like school girls again for the funeral and later to scatter Isobel's ashes. They weren't all that close as friends and that fact is pointed out several times.

Obviously, based on the title alone, you know there was a pact made between them. As the plot unfolds, the women continue to receive text messages based on the traditional magpie nursery rhyme (which is helpfully shared at the opening of the novel) with some modifications of the words. You can read through the chapters pretty quickly. While you may suspect what the pact was, all the information is not shared until later in the novel. The ending was a surprise. 3.5 rounded down when needed.

The Pact is a good choice for readers who enjoy soapy popcorn thrillers. Thanks to Boldwood Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

How to Survive a Murder Investigation

 

How to Survive a Murder Investigation by Catherine Townsend
11/17/26; 304 pages
Ballantine 

How to Survive a Murder Investigation: A True Story of Death and Danger in the Ozarks by Catherine Townsend is part memoir and instruction manual set during her personal investigative into an unsolved murder. It is highly recommended for fans of true crime and the author's podcast.

In 2004 college student Rebekah Gould was murdered in the Ozarks of rural Izard County Arkansas and her body was found off Highway 9. Townsend grew up in the area years earlier so in 2017, when the case was still unsolved, Townsend went back home to investigate. As both a journalist and private investigator, as well as a former native to the area, she was uniquely qualified to look into the case. She understood wrongful convictions, dealt with dirty cops, and knew incompetence when she encountered it. Rebecca was clearly murdered in the trailer of her boyfriend. From there, the investigation flounders. It is full of rumors, suspects, presumed missing pieces of evidence, and no clear investigation

Townsend opens with personal background information before delving into the case of Rebecca Gould. She has the officer in charge of the case dismiss her, saying, “investigations are grownup stuff.” He also won't share any information. This sets Townsend on a mission. Each of the chapters are titled as steps in a murder investigation, starting with 1. Create Your Murder Board, and then followed by 2. Don't Go into the Woods; 3. Treat Dating like Detective work and Vice Versa; 4. Piece Together the Timeline; 5. Be a Victim; 6. Insert Yourself into the Story; 7. Pound the Pavement, and more. Also included between chapters are a few Sidecases.

It is an interesting real life story and did hold my attention most of the time. I'm not a true crime podcast fan, so I knew nothing about this case or Townsend before reading. She writes in a very conversational, accessible style, as if she's just talking to you about the case, who she questions, information uncovered, leads, etc. At times I did feel as if she was sharing way too much personal information rather than focusing on the investigation, which left me a bit bored, but others will likely enjoy this personable style of writing more. This is a true cold case investigation, so unlike a novel, everything won't be wrapped up with complete closure on all questions. You will likely still have questions that can't be answered. 3.5 rounded up when needed.

How to Survive a Murder Investigation, is a great choice for true crime devotees, along with those following Townsend and true crime podcasts. Thanks to Ballantine for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Parkwood Murders

 

The Parkwood Murders by Chris Chibnall
12/1/26; 352 pages
Viking Penguin
Detective Nicola Bridge #2

The Parkwood Murders by Chris Chibnall is a highly recommended procedural/murder mystery and the second book in the Detective Nicola Bridge series following Death at the White Hart.

Parkwood Holiday Village is a vacation resort that offer families a whole series of amenities and excellent customer service in an idyllic woodland setting, so when a dead man is found stabbed in the wave pool it causes a whole different kind of experience. Detective Nicola Bridge and her younger partner DC Harry Ward are called in to investigate and face numerous challenges. Any evidence was washed away by the pool water, the identity of the dead man in unknown, and between the visitors and staff there are hundreds of people to question. With limited help, Nicola and Harry along with investigator Mel Hardiman have their work cut out for them.

The setting comes to life in this exceptionally well-written, carefully plotted, fast-paced intelligent and complex procedural. Following along as the team uncovers information and investigates held my complete attention. In this case the potential suspects are numerous and the setting could allow someone coming in secretly. Readers are privy to the questioning of several suspects, each with varying degrees of skepticism over their trustworthiness. There are plenty of twist, several suspects, and increasing tension. 

The team work to uncover clues and carefully follows up on all of them. They end up identifying the body as belonging to the former manager of Parkwood. Along the way also uncover a case of a woman who disappeared years earlier and several questionable activities going on in the resort. The final denouement was a shocking surprise. 

All of the characters, including supporting ones, are fully realized and are presented as unique individuals which makes it easy to follow the investigation. The interactions between the characters is realistic. Nicola is also going through private domestic struggles with her 18-year-old son. It was a pleasure to follow these characters in another investigation and I hope there will be another novel to continue their story. 

The Parkwood Murders is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy well-written British police procedurals. Thanks to Viking Penguin for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Dead Ringer

 

Dead Ringer by John W. Mefford
11/19/26; 339 pages
Book Whisperer
Book 8 of Alex & Ozzie, Dark Horizon  

Dead Ringer by John W. Mefford is a highly recommended investigative thriller. This is the eighth book in the Alex & Ozzie, Dark Horizon series but it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone novel. This outing focuses on two different investigations.

Austin Horizon Investigations consists of private investigators Alex Troutt, former FBI agent, and Ozzie Novak, former defense attorney, along with some assistance by Alex's son, Luke, 22. Ozzy's twin sister, Ivy Nash, has her own PI firm, ECHO, with her partner Cristina, which focuses on finding lost children. When Ivy drops off her son Miguel, 12, for Luke to watch while she's on a case, Alex has the time to help her. They are looking for Vince, 11, who was playing in the park when he disappeared. Vince and his mother Kyla Robinson are now living with her fiance wealthy real estate developer Simon Wilcher. At the same time Ozzie is called by insurance claim adjuster Nancy Lee to look into a painting stolen from the home of wealthy couple Keith and Angela. He has his college aged daughter Mackenzie help him in the investigation, while his 11-year-old daughter Charlotte, spends quality time with Luke and Miguel.

The well-written narrative switches smoothly between the two cases through chapters from the point-of-view of Alex, Ivy, and Ozzie. As they uncover clues in both of the cases, the tension rises quickly, especially in the case of Vince. While they are investigating, the focus is initially on a mysterious van at the park. Kyla's ex-husband, Vince, is also causing trouble as he rages and tries to cause trouble while Kayla is spiraling. Ivy also seems to be increasingly having problems, which leads to a shocking disclosure. The phone calls they've had haven't demanded a ransom - yet. The missing painting case is not as tension packed, but it does present a mystery. Both of the cases come to a satisfying conclusion, although one outcome was predictable early on.

There is a whole lot of information given at the beginning to help readers new to the series follow who's who and how everyone is connected. This serves to catch readers up on some additional character development and background before the two cases really take off. All of these characters have been through a plethora of traumatic experiences. The dialogue between them is well done and entertaining. I especially enjoyed the humorous scenes with Luke, Miguel, and Charlotte having a great time together getting prepared for Christmas in their own way. 

Dead Ringer is a great choice for those who enjoy investigative thrillers and mysteries. Thanks to Book Whisperer for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Destined: A Promise Fulfilled

 

Destined: A Promise Fulfilled by Rẹmi Adejumo
10/22/26; 482 pages
Seven Acre Press 

Destined: A Promise Fulfilled by Rẹmi Adejumo is a highly recommended love story - for the right reader. This is a love story that also encompasses grief, family, faith, friends, and visions.

In April 1989 in Nigeria, Atoke's father was assassinated right in front of her. She was 12 years-old and next to him in the front seat of the car on their way home from church. Obviously, it changed her entire life. Atoke had the gift of sensing things, or seeing events before they happened. Additionally, she had had a premonition about her father's death in 1984. She was sent to boarding school with hopes that removing her from their home would help. What Atoke learned was discipline, achievement, as she cultivated a carefully guarded certainty about life. She kept her best friend BK, traveled, and became a solicitor living in London.

Stefan grew up in Germany and  kept having a recurring dream/vision where a man tells him to look after her (no name).  When BK talks Atoke into go to a reunion in Los Vegas, Stefan sees her and is immediately attracted to her. She is also attracted to him, however, also hesitant so she dissuades him from his affections.  He can't forget her and a couple years later has a friend find her. He then goes to London to see her, finding her at the coffee shop mentioned years earlier. This time the two start a relationship, a long distance one with Stefan living in Florida and Atoke in London. 

After they start a relationship the novel focuses on them building that relationship, learning to trust, and strengthening their connections to each other. They also need to open up about their pasts, her about her father and him about his vision. It is detailed as the narrative delves deep into their character development while establishing that they were destined to meet each other. It does come to a satisfying conclusion.

If I'm honest, I'm not a huge fan of romance novels and reading this was a stretch for me at times. It was not what I expected. However, I think those who do appreciate romance will likely enjoy this novel. The character development kept me reading as the two tried to work out their relationship. However, it also felt overly long and could have used some major editing. I am also having some doubts about characters that are all very successful and seem to have unlimited funds. I prefer novels more grounded in reality. 3.5 rounded up when needed. 

Thanks to Seven Acre Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Something True

 

Something True by Gina Cafasso
7/29/26; 220 pages
Independently published 

Something True by Gina Cafasso is a highly recommended introspective novel tackling the question of beginning to live a life of personal authenticity and honesty.

Veronica (Vera), 54, has been a capable professional for years, while waiting for her real life to start. Whenever someone needed something, she was the one who was always there and now she has begun to realize that being needed was her existence, as though she was a resource rather than a person. She is the one who is always fine, always useful. The one who was adored, but never chosen in a 7 year relationship. Vera wanted to write something true when she first started a novel at age 31 and then set it aside for over 20 years. She has now retired from a job she has excelled at for 11 years and plans to finally write something true, but first she needs to learn to be available to herself. Vera's newly discovered medical situation also pushes her to finally confront what she wants in life. 

This is a beautifully written, descriptive and contemplative novel where a woman is examining her life, her inner life versus her outer actions, and finding it lacking. Many of her inner thoughts will resonate with readers. The real issue is that she was never honest with herself and never did things for herself that she would enjoy. The style resembles stream of consciousness and is sometimes repetitive as Vera's inner thoughts are shared on repeat but phrased differently. This would resemble someone struggling with the concept of being available to herself and what she wants. The narrative is full of symbols representing her changed thought patterns.

Vera's professional persona, the one that she is questioning, is present in many people across a multitude of professions - smile and project competence while in the public or at work. Her real struggle is understanding herself and what she wants. She is having an existential crisis and wondering who she really is now that she's not working. If I'm totally honest, I reached a point while reading where I wished her well but I also wanted to tell her to cherish the luxury she has of being able to afford to retire early without the financial concerns of day to day living. Not everyone can afford or has the extravagance of this much time to have an existential crisis or search for who they really are in their 50's. 

Something True is a wonderful selection for those who enjoy introspective novels about a woman examining her life's choices. Thanks to Gina Cafasso for providing me with an advance reader's copy via LibraryThing Early Readers. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Osteoporosis

 

Osteoporosis: The book I wish I'd had when I was diagnosed by Lisa Pocius MD
6/16/26; 232 pages
Lisa Pocius MD
https://mybone.health 

Osteoporosis: The book I wish I'd had when I was diagnosed by Lisa Pocius MD is a very highly recommended, clear and concise guide written for those newly diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia. 

Knowledge is, indeed, power, and this a very accessible book is a treasure trove of information and an well organized reference for those facing bone loss. Dr. Pocius wrote Osteoporosis after her own diagnosis, so this is personal and provides the basic information she wishes someone had given her. This guide respects your intelligence, refuses to scare you, and gives you a concrete plan for a stronger future. The information provided will be useful for anyone with a family history of fractures, low bone density, adults over 50, and everyone diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia.

The guide is organized into three parts. Part 1: Discovery; Part 2: Treatment and Active Management; and Part 3: Living with Osteoporosis. Each chapter helpfully has Key Takeaways at the end. Following the guide is a chapter on Frequently Asked Questions, a Glossary of Medical Terms, and Notes. You can choose to read the guide straight through or start with the 30-day Action Plan and come back later for additional information.

Honestly, I wish I had this guide a year ago after being diagnose with osteopenia, which was a shock in itself, and then had to figure out a course of action on my own. As I was reading Osteoporosis I used a whole little pack of post-it flags to note important information. Clearly, I can't share the whole book, but I will note some of the topics flagged. I want to emphasize that the scan is very, very easy, and here Dr. Pocius explains how to read the numbers. Also, although the majority of those diagnosed are women, men also can have osteoporosis and genetics plays a big role. She clearly explains bone structure with illustrations and notes early signs of bone loss, including loss of height, receding gums, weakened grip, brittle nails, stooped posture, and chronic back pain. Medications that may affect bone health are also listed.

Part 2 begins with information and illustrations on resistance exercises and follows with nutrition and bone health. The importance of calcium levels, Vitamin D, and nutrition is covered. If you are like me you will suddenly realize that you are not getting as much calcium in your diet as you thought, need to adjust your diet, and, perhaps, even add supplements. Foods to embrace and what to avoid are discussed and there are several useful pages of charts with beneficial food, the nutrients provided, and additional notes, followed by a suggested daily meal plan. This is followed by medication choices and working with medical professionals. Part 3 discusses living safely with your diagnosis.

Osteoporosis is a excellent choice for everyone seeking information on osteoporosis or osteopenia, especially those recently diagnosed. I was thrilled to receive it and want to thank Lisa Pocius MD at https://mybone.health, for the review copy via LibraryThing Early Reviewers. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Split Second: Thirty-Two Switcheroo

 

Split Second: Thirty-Two Switcheroo by Janet Evanovich
11/10/26; 320 pages
Atria Books
Stephanie Plum series #32

Split Second: Thirty-Two Switcheroo by Janet Evanovich is a wildly entertaining and danger-packed crime novel featuring bounty hunter Stephanie Plum. It has been a minute since I actually laughed-out-loud while reading and this happened several times while reading this 32nd novel in the long running series. It was pure pleasure to join Stephanie again while she works her magic. Needless to say it is very highly recommended. 

Stephanie and Joe Morelli are married, but she is struggling with actually living with someone - and his Grandma Bella who insists Stephanie is pregnant. She is still working for her cousin Vinnie as a bail bonds enforcement officer and the flamboyant Lula is right there as her partner as they chase down the bail jumpers in Trenton, New Jersey. They have several successful captures, but the tricky and dangerous Ziggy Zucker continuously eludes them and she has acquired a mysterious enemy sending threatening notes and disturbing packages. Additionally, Ranger, her ex-fiancé and mentor, hires her to help as a security guard for the 10 year-old daughter of a powerful political figure.

Expect more cars totaled and damaged than ever in this well-written plot that is filled with both danger and hilarity, often simultaneously. It provides a lightning-fast pace, plenty of suspense, action, risks, complicated relationships, and a hint of romance while providing the entertainment we expect from a Stephanie Plum novel. Some of the car accidents are memorable, as is Stephanie's attempts at cooking. You may have to set disbelief aside, but this is worth it so you don't get the evil eye from Grandma Bella. 

Everyone you know is back: Lula, Connie, Morelli, Ranger, Rex the hamster, Vinnie, Grandma Mazur, Stephanie’s parents, along with a few juicy tidbits from the old gossipy ladies. The dialogue between characters is pitch-perfect. This is mostly escapism, rather than a heavy, complicated novel with a brief exception within the job for Ranger, and it was exactly what I needed. Even though this is part of a long-running series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. 

Split Second: Thirty-Two Switcheroo is an excellent choice for those who enjoy humor in their crime novels. Thanks to Atria Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Baby Queen

 

Baby Queen by Ty Landers
11/17/26; 320 pages
Harper Perennial 

Baby Queen by Ty Landers is a very highly recommended Southern family crime drama set in Alabama. This is a great debut novel and not to be missed.

Natalie (Nat) Link has return to Noccalula, Alabama, and is back living with her irascible Grandmother Lana Link, who has declining health, on the family's honey farm. Nat's mother became Vivien "Green," ran off to Hollywood as a teen, and left an infant Nat to be raised by her grandmother. Now Nat has sold the horse farm her mother loved to finance her new endeavor. She used the money to start making honey-based skin care products. When contractors cleaning up the farm find a well-preserved body in a 55 gallon drum of honey, Sheriff Ed Sorter identifies it as that of Tom Rath, Nat's father, who went missing in 1988 at age 21. Nat learns about this when promoting her products on a local TV show, "Morning Y'all."

At the same time Adam Harmony and his brother Boy, used car salesmen and hired killers, are introduced, along with former detective Bob Sauk, current private investigator, who has a grudge and has been keeping records on the Link family, especially Lana, for over 20 years. Sheriff Sorter even calls Sauk when Rath's body is found. Suddenly Nat realizes that her grandmother has likely been involved in a criminal business enterprise with questionable partners for years. Nat is increasingly threatened to continue the operation, or else, and may need Sauk's help. 

In this well-written, entertaining Southern noir there is a plethora of things going on simultaneously in the fast-paced plot, and most of those things are clearly illegal or morally dubious. There are several major plot twists and plenty of action in the narrative. Expect family secrets, grudges, murder, scheming, drugs, shady people and a whole lot of dysfunction. There is something going on throughout the entire novel that will keep you glued to the pages as you keep reading as fast as you can. There is some offbeat humor to off-set all the power struggles, action scenes, and family trauma depicted. 

Nat is a great character. Clearly she had no idea what her feisty grandmother was involved in and how the family made money. She just wants to start her skin care business. Instead, she is presented with what is seemingly a non-choice, go along with the present set up or risk losing her life. She is a fully-realized character with strengths and weaknesses. You will be wishing her the best, even though it is not certain she will survive. Bob Sauk is also a fully-realized character who clearly has many flaws, but there are also some strengths and skills still there. 

Baby Queen is a excellent choice for those who enjoy crime dramas, Southern noir, and dysfunctional family dramas. Thanks to Harper Perennial for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Riddle Maker

 

The Riddle Maker by Bruce Borgos
11/17/26; 352 pages
St. Martin's Press
Porter Beck Mystery #4 

The Riddle Maker by Bruce Borgos is a very highly recommended investigative mystery and the fourth book in the Porter Beck series. It was a pleasure to return to Lincoln County, Nevada and it's environs to following Beck and Charlie on more investigations. 

Sheriff Porter Beck receives an anonymous riddle addressed to him that a tourist originally found it in the Black Mailbox, located in the desert by Area 51. Arshal Jessup delivered the message to Beck and Charlie Blue Horse, a state police detective and Beck's fiancee when they are in Los Vegas for Charlie's OB appointment and Beck's eye doctor appointment. Charlie is 6 months pregnant and the two have decided to get married. Beck's retinitis pigmentosa (degenerating night vision) hasn't progressed, but this time the doctor wants him to try a new procedure PHAROS-11, which could bring back some night vision.  The riddle leads them to Lake Mead where they find a 55 gallon oil drum chained to the bottom. Inside are the remains of Press Halvorson, a man who went missing in 1975 and Beck's grandfather.  

When FBI profiler Jett Lowell learns of Beck's riddle, she immediately travels to Nevada. Jet believes a serial killer is at work. She also received a riddle 7 years ago, when she was 24, about her brother who was kidnapped when he was 5 and she was 14. His body was never found. Everyone unravels Jett's riddle, finding another body. This results in another riddle and body. At the same time, Beck asks X-files (Greg Knutson) to investigate 2 crop circles covering an acre each in alfalfa fields that the dogs go crazy when near.  Additionally, Charlie goes to investigate another bull elk shooting and is almost killed by a sniper. Needless to say, there is a whole lot going on in Nevada.

This is another well-written, excellent addition to the series. The pace is lightning-fast and the tension quickly rises throughout this intelligent and complex investigative mystery. Both the intrigue and the action are sustained and truly non-stop right to the exciting conclusion. Expect an intricate, immersive plot that moves quickly while keeping your engagement high. Twists abound in the narrative as discoveries and new information are uncovered. The setting is a major part of the series. I think it can be read as a standalone novel, but will definitely be enjoyed by those following the series.

All the characters in the series are well-developed and portrayed as realistic individuals with strengths and weaknesses. Returning supporting characters to the series are back, if briefly, including Beck's dog, Columbo/Bo, Arshal Jessup, Sev Valasco, Vegas Detective Darlene Spear, Beck's sister Brinley and daughter Mercy, the identical twin deputies (Twin Peaks/Jolly Greens), Deputy Tuffy, and the podcaster named “X-Files."

The Riddle Maker is an excellent choice for those who enjoy investigative mysteries. Thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

All the Little Secrets

 

All the Little Secrets by May Cobb
11/17/26; 400 pages
Sourcebooks Landmark 

All the Little Secrets by May Cobb is a very highly recommended soapy domestic thriller. This is the sequel to All the Little Houses, set in the mid-1980s, and marks the return to Longview, Texas, I have been anxiously awaiting. 

It opens with a murder and brings back all the egos, trash talk, grudges, secrets, infidelity, drinking, social scandals, amoral actions expected and adds a couple ruthless power grabs to the mix. This, again, quickly becomes a wildly entertaining guilty pleasure to read. While it says it is a standalone thriller, I really think you need to read All the Little Houses first and then jump right into All the Little Secrets. Trust me on this. I'm not going to say much purposefully so it won't spoil anything.

The well-written, complex plot opens following a murder. The social order in Longview is in turmoil and among the mourners there are several suspects. At the same time there are also several schemes in play where people want to increase their own position and power in the local hierarchy. The ghost of the deceased is still around, observing everything. 

All the characters from the first novel are here:  Alexander and Charleigh Andersen and their spoiled daughter Nellie; Jackson Ford, Charleigh's best friend; Ethan and Abigail Swift, their daughters Jane, Julia, and Molly; Luke; and Detective Roy Walker. In short chapters that make the pace move very quickly, the narrative switches between the point-of-view of Detective Walker, Jackson, Charleigh, Abigail, Nellie, Jane, and, briefly. Julia. As the narrators tell the story through their perspective, the suspense and tension increase. This novel would make a great movie or TV show with all the beautiful, unlikable characters scheming while smiling.

Yet again, everyone is behaving badly, which is what keeps this soapy melodrama un-put-downable. There is also a backstory for several of the characters that increase the tension and drama. This time out the ending brings more closure but leaves things open for a third book. Honestly, just like the first novel, every character is unlikable, ruthless, and resentful while planning the downfall of someone while trying to elevate themselves. All the lies, secrets, misbehavior, scheming, revenge, drinking, grudges, etc., run rampant through every page and with every character. 

All the Little Secrets is the perfect choice for anyone who enjoys soapy dramas full of people behaving badly and especially those who have read All the Little Houses. Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Collateral Heart

 

The Collateral Heart by Jeffery Deaver
11/17/26; 416 pages
G.P. Putnam's Sons
Lincoln Rhyme series #17 

The Collateral Heart by Jeffery Deaver is a highly recommended investigative thriller and the 17th book in the Lincoln Rhyme series. After former Homicide Detective Lincoln Rhyme became a quadriplegic, he began working as a Forensic Criminalist/Consultant with the NYPD. Amelia Sachs is his partner and wife who acts as his eyes as she walks crime scenes. This time they are investigating a series of arson cases in New York City.

The first fire was set at the abandoned Abernathy & Ca building in Spanish Harlem and nearly kills a homeless man living there. The arsonist left behind a clue: a fireproof box with the number 1 painted on and contents that provide clues which once parsed indicate more fires will be happening and they do. The two turn to James Harper, a famous historian and host of a popular history podcast for information about the clues. Simultaneously another investigation is underway. Desdemona (Des) Vale is a detective and grandmother from Long Island who is determinedly and diligently searching for the killer of a young woman. 

Adding to the complexity, NYPD partner, Detective Lon Sellitto visits Rhyme to discuss the attempted assassination of Edward McGuire, founder and CEO of McGuire Computer Services, the developer of a new large language search engine. The assassin, anti-corporate activist Thomas Elron Olsen, was shot by McGuire's bodyguard, but Sellitto suspects a larger widespread conspiracy is afoot. Could all of this tie together?

This is a well-written, complex series of investigations underway that keep a steady pace as clues are uncovered and leads followed in the plot. In the investigations everything - clues, information, and evidence - is all logically uncovered and followed up on. There is a whole lot of additional information and historical background provided to support the investigation in the narrative that also serves to add complexity to the already complicated twisty plot. I did feel my attention waning at times while reading, but everything does lead to a satisfying conclusion.

At this point, when you reach book 17 in a series, the main characters and supporting characters are all well known and established. This time, Des Vale is a wonderful character and addition to the plot. I especially enjoyed following her character development that was detailed enough that it seemed to point to another appearance in a future novel.

The Collateral Heart is a great choice for those who enjoy complex investigative procedurals and are following the Lincoln Rhyme series. Thanks to G.P. Putnam's Sons for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Dream Family

 

The Dream Family by Lisa Hall
11/5/26; 300 pages
Joffe Books 

The Dream Family by Lisa Hall is a soapy domestic drama following an influencer. 

Heather Joseph is a social media influencer and is "the" Heather @ EverythingInItsPlace. She is making a good income now that she has reached hundred thousand followers.  She, her husband Jason, and their 10 year-old daughter Cora have just moved to Heather's dream home in her old hometown of Mapleford. When dropping off Cora for her first day of school Heather meets Tim, who introduces her to some of the other moms, Sanna, Verity, and Avanti. While Verity heads off to work, the others all invite Heather to coffee after drop-off and she enjoys their company. 

It seems like the move was a good choice, until someone switches Cora's lunch with junk food and reports her for stealing. Heather is also receiving aggressive, threatening messages from an anonymous sending calling her names. There are also several saying, "When are you ever going to learn that the truth can't stay hidden forever?" Posts appear that Heather didn't make. Someone is targeting Heather... and is Jason cheating again? 

After opening with an attention-grabbing future scene where Cora is picked up from a playdate by someone else, the plot settles into even-paced plot. It is also a very, very predictable plot, so the enjoyment is found in the soap opera-esque drama and interaction between characters. There is someone threatening Heather. This results in a modicum of suspense and tension building while you are waiting for the end. At the end the action picks up in a sudden burst and you get the popcorn drama you've been waiting for.

None of the characters are even remotely likable and they all feel fake, like caricatures of a type of person. That includes Heather. I think the influencer mommy character has had a good run in various dramas now and perhaps it's time to move on to some new archetype for the main character. (Note: this was originally titled The Playdate and the title was changed before publication.) I enjoyed other novels by Hall more.

The Dream Family is a good choice for those who like soapy dramas. Thanks to Joffe Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Lying Dead

 

The Lying Dead by Nick Louth
11/12/26; 320 pages
Canelo 
Detective Jan Talantire #6

The Lying Dead by Nick Louth is a very highly recommended police procedural and the 6th book in the series featuring Detective Jan Talantire. This continues to be an excellent series with interesting, complex investigations. The previous books in the series include: The Two Deaths of Ruth Lyle, The Last Ride, The Dark Edge, The Deep End, and The Hanging Place.

At the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barnstaple, two assailants wearing gorilla masks, one in a wheelchair, enter the stroke unit on the Tarka Ward. A nurse is held at gunpoint by one, while the one in the wheelchair shoots a newly admitted stroke patient, name unknown, three times. The masked attackers leave, threatening nursing staff on their way out. DI Jan Talantire responds along with DC Dave Nuttall and DS Maddy Moran. The name of the victim is unknown. He was found, already unconscious, at a nightclub with no ID and no phone. The staff along with the head of the hospital, Dr. Darragh McNamara are reluctant to share information, ostensibly based on privacy, or work with the police, which makes their job more difficult. Some of them display a decidedly truculent attitude. As Talantire’s detective team delves deep for clues, they also expose more than expected. 
 
This presents us with another well-written, complex, and extensive investigation that includes twists and surprising discoveries. It is a welcome addition to the series. Jan Talantire and her team are faced with a crime to solve, unhelpful hospital staff, and, as they investigate, the case becomes increasingly complex and comprehensive. Their work cut out for them trying to determine exactly what happened with the clues available and everything has to be carefully examined and considered. I always appreciate procedurals where the the investigation is thorough and clues are logically followed up on in the investigation. 

Talantire's is portrayed as a tough, intelligent and compelling character with strengths and flaws. Her character's personality is well established by this addition to the series and most of the team members should be recognizable to those following the series. This time the narrative doesn't follow the personal details of the characters lives as much as it has in other outings.

Although this is the 6th book in the series, I think it could be enjoyed as a standalone novel but you would miss the previous character development. It is also noteworthy that Nick Louth has a note to readers at the end of the novel informing readers that he suffered a stroke in January of 2025, which was some inspiration for the setting of The Lying Dead.

The Lying Dead is a great choice for readers who enjoy complicated police procedurals and especially those following the series. Thanks to Canelo for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Bad Company

 

Bad Company by Sara Paretsky
11/10/26; 416 pages
St. Martin's Press 

Bad Company by Sara Paretsky is a highly recommended espionage novel following a retired CIA agent.  This is a standalone novel and not a part of the long running V.I. Warshawski series.

Lily Sedako, a 70 year-old former CIA agent who spent her career overseas, is living in Chicago when an anonymous person sent an article from the New Yorker magazine. In side was a picture of Lily with a group of women in Hayalistan, a former Soviet Republic where she was stationed for 20 years as a cultural attaché. The article also included students carrying protest signs. More concerning to Lily is that it suggests in the article that she betrayed the Hayali people, helped in the assassination plot of an indigenous Hayalistan leader, Rani, and brought in the company which is strip mining the land for minerals.

Since Lily was suddenly reassigned to another country before all that happened, she decides to look into why she is being targeted. She talks to former friend and CIA analytics chief Marissa Hockney, but gets no where. Lily suspects her former boss Bruce Weyrich is the one going after her. Using all her skills developed over a lifetime, she travels to Hayalistan under a different identity and begins to look into what is happening and contacting former friends. At the same time, the CIA and the FBI begin looking for her, marking the start of an intricate cat and mouse scenario.

This is well written and intricately plotted. Paretsky creates very detailed, information packed deep dive into the background and customs for Hayalistan, a fictional former Soviet republic, and the people there. She provides the same very detailed information about Lily, making her a fully realized character who feels fully formed even though this is her first outing. Readers will be rooting for Lily, a strong woman, while also being amazed at her physical abilities for a 70 year-old evading and escaping capture from much younger pursuers. She tackles aging, political corruption, greed, institutional power, individuals seeking influence, and searching for the ultimate truth.

There is an abundance of background information on everyone and everything throughout the entire novel. I'll admit that the plethora of intricate details and numerous names slow down the narrative, were periodically repetitive, and overwhelmed the plot at times. The ambition to create this fully former character and world is impressive. In some ways I felt like this could have been rewritten into multiple novels rather than providing all these characters and information at us at one time. On the other hand it is also nice to have the complete and very complicated story and character development all done in one fell swoop. 

Bad Company is an excellent choice for those who appreciate complex espionage novels. Thanks to St. Martin's Press for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

Our Greatest Work

 

Our Greatest Work: A Novel by Twins  

by Sam and Joe Eicher
11/10/26; 296 pages
Akashic Books 

Our Greatest Work: A Novel by Twins by Sam and Joe Eicher is a recommended literary bro drama, with some comedic scenes, featuring twin brothers and written by twin brothers. 

Joe and Sam are 28-year-old Jewish twin brothers who have been estranged and are about to see each other at their ten-year high school reunion in Chicago. Both twins tell their story in alternating first-person chapters. Joe, an actor, is flying from Paris seated next to Broadway actor Anthony Rapp, the original star of Rent, and he tells his story to Rapp in his chapters. Sam, a writer, has been living in Aix-en-Provence, France, for several years where he works as a guide for Ramble. He reflects on the past after meeting with Isaac, an old high school friend who offers him a book deal. The problem between the brothers began back with their high schools production of the musical Rent, and with Chloe, who was Sam’s first love, but also had a history with Joe.

Part of the goal of the novel, beyond telling an entertaining story, is to show readers the dichotomy identical twins face, along with all the various ways twins are portrayed as they struggle to differentiate themselves as individuals. Even siblings who grow up together can feel a close bond, but twins know each other intimately. Along with the obvious looking like each other, they know each others background, triggers, shortcomings, dreams, and insecurities. This alone could explain the desire for some distance and autonomy from each other as they get older. As brother is pitted against brother, there is no good side/choice.

I classified this as a bro drama because, well, it feels like a bro book with partying, lots of talking smack, relationship talk, humor, and cultural references all from a young(er) male point-of view.  As I was reading it became abundantly clear that I was not the target reader and this novel wasn't a good fit for me. I'm, honestly, an older woman, which placed some of the topics and cultural references out of my purview, however, it was worth reading even if at times it was challenging to tell the brother's voices apart and at other points it seemed to meander through topics and events. I'm likely an outlier on this one.

Our Greatest Work: A Novel by Twins is a good choice for those who enjoy very contemporary literary novels. Thanks to Akashic Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

The Hit

 

The Hit by Paul Heatley 
11/1/26; 300 pages
Inkubator Books
Zeke Greene #1 

The Hit by Paul Heatley is a very highly recommended thriller and the first book in the Zeke (Ezekiel) Greene series. 

After working black ops along with Tom Rollins for the CIA put his family in danger, Zeke Greene has left the agency. The CIA was not pleased with his decision made it difficult for him to find a job. Finally he is hired for the position of Constable of Lavigne County in Louisiana and he and his wife Naomi along with their children, Tre, 8, and Tamika, 6, move to the small town of Moreau. His first day in town introduces two local bullies, brothers, Lance and Howie Erskine who harass Naomi and then think they'll beat up Zeke when he tells them to apologize. This is also his introduction to two deputies on the local police force, the third Erskine brother, Damien, and young Joseph Dufont, 22.

Zeke meets Sheriff Lawrence Fontaine the next day. Clueless about his background and thinking Zeke was just a security guard before this, Fontaine makes it clear that Zeke is beneath him and not worthy of any consideration. The county is his to run, his way, and Zeke is just a constable. The previous Constable, Laslo Colbert disappeared. Then Zeke happens to see a meth lab blow up, has people shooting at him, and finds a body. He calls the police, who want him to leave it alone and ignore the area, with the exception of Joseph. Zeke takes the body to the coroner, Samuel Fox, who warns Zeke to watch his back and be mindful of who he trusts. This includes the sheriff. Zeke is keenly aware that there is  a lot of criminal behavior being ignored in Lavigne County.

This is an excellent start for the new series featuring Zeke Greene. The plot is interesting, complex, and will hold your complete attention. The action takes off right away and keeps a lightning-fast pace straight through the whole un-put-downable novel. It is clear that the corruption in the county is widespread and Zeke's investigation into it is portrayed in a believable manner. As if there wasn't enough going on already, there is a subplot where Arthur Shackleton, with the CIA, hires hitman Dean Valchek to eliminate Zeke and his family if necessary. This novel takes place after the events in the Tom Rollins book #10, Search and Destroy, which first introduced Zeke and his family. It can be read as a standalone thriller.

Zeke is a great character and he is easy to support throughout the novel. He is intelligent, observant, skilled, and, if needed, very dangerous. Joseph Dufont is there for Zeke as the one deputy he can trust and it seems he will be helping Zeke in future outings. It also needs to be mentioned that Naomi can hold her own too as she has an incredible scene in the novel. From the end of the novel readers will know that there is still a whole lot of corruption in the county that needs to be dealt with and that Zeke and his family are still going to be in danger. I'm looking forward to the next one. 

The Hit is a great choice for those who enjoy action-packed thrillers and want to get in at the start of a new series. Thanks to Inkubator Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.

All In

 

All In by David Baldacci
11/10/26; 448 pages
Grand Central Publishing
6:20 Man series #4 

All In by David Baldacci is an excellent, very highly recommended, action-packed thriller and the fourth novel in the 6:20 Man/Travis Devine series. 

Travis Devine, current Department of Homeland Security agent and former Army Ranger is called to investigate after investigative reporter Theresa Lee is shot and Five Eyes associate Bill Walker is kidnapped and later his body turns in the Sydney Harbor. Walker was married to Australian billionaire Charlotte Woolwine, although he had recently filed for divorce. The Woolwine family is a wealthy, powerful Australian dynasty with worldwide connections. The U.S. is involved because of Walker’s work with Five Eyes, the intelligence-gathering alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. 

Devine begins his investigation in NYC and then is sent to Australia, where he teams up with DS Anais Jones of the NSW Police Force. As Devine and Jones investigate, the danger is ever present and increases throughout the narrative. It becomes clear that Walker's death is tied to the Woolwine family, but the question is in what capacity. In the investigation they encounter rogue intelligence operations, Russian mobsters, compromised prisons, AI data centers, and a quiet campaign to redraw the global balance of power. Devine must use all his intelligence and special skills to survive this investigation.

All In is another compelling, well-written, fast-paced, well-plotted, riveting, action packed thriller in the 6:20 Man series that will hold your complete attention throughout. Even though it is part of a series it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone novel. The plot is intricate and complex, but it is so well written that the complications are easy to follow. You will find yourself racing through the pages to see what could possibly happen next, understanding that danger is around every corner. Quickly it becomes apparent that you can't trust anyone and everything may not be as it seems.

Devine and Jones are both strong characters and are portrayed as intelligent, fully realized individuals. You will be rooting for these two to uncover the truth and remain healthy and alive while doing so. There is a subplot following the hospitalization and failing health of Devine's father along with their complicated relationship. This adds another undercurrent of stress to an already challenging and dangerous situation.

All In is an excellent choice for everyone who enjoys high octane, action packed thrillers. 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.

Price of Silence

 

Price of Silence by Elise Hart Kipness
1/1/27; 317 pages
Thomas & Mercer
Sydney Price #1 

Price of Silence by Elise Hart Kipness is a highly recommended investigative domestic drama following a wealthy, influential media family.

Sydney Price is a reporter at WNEX in NYC. Even though she is part of the Glenmont Media family after her father married her stepmother, Judith Glenmont,  Sydney wants to make her own way on her own merit in the business. The plot opens strong with an explosion at the Glenmont Media Headquarters across the street from WNEX, Sydney immediately makes sure her family is okay, while colleagues are hoping she can uncover inside information. Veteran reporter Randy Fields uncovers intel that small pipe bombs were responsible and this delayed an important vote in the boardroom.  A huge storm moves in, and Sydney needs to go to a swanky engagement party for her stepbrother James and Dalia, where her ex, Oliver, is also attending. Randy suddenly, suspiciously, becomes violently ill, is hospitalized, and dies.

The narrative starts with a lot going on, including bombs, a storm, a plethora of secrets, intrigue, lies, and plenty of interpersonal and family drama. Since the author was a reporter, the newsroom scenes are realistically portrayed. Parts of the drama are predictable because there have been clues clearly shared in the narrative, which does lessen some of the big twists/reveals in the plot. There is, naturally, much attention of the ultra-wealthy Glenmont family and plenty of infighting. It's not always easy to feel a connection with an entitled wealthy family behaving badly. 

After a fast-paced start with an abundance of excitement and intrigue, the plot slowed down in the middle, but it does recover to a satisfying ending.  There is also a romance subplot that was annoying, unrealistic, and unnecessary as it distracted from the actual plot. Really, a conspiracy is being uncovered, family drama is escalating, there are ties to other powerful people, a co-worker dies suspiciously, a huge storm is causing havoc, you might be in danger personally, and you suddenly feel romantic? Yeah, not likely. 

Price of Silence is a good choice for those who enjoy following an investigation by a reporter and the ensuing drama in her very wealthy family. Thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGally. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.