Goodreads

Release date: August 12, 2025

Publisher: Grand Central

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Synopsis:

A young mother haunted by war, determined to make a fresh start. But sometimes, the sins of the past aren’t so easy to escape. 

Recent Afghan refugee Sabera Ahmadi was last seen exiting her place of work three weeks ago. The local police have yet to open a case, while her older, domineering husband seems unconcerned. Sabera’s closest friend, however, is convinced Sabera would never willingly leave her three‑year old daughter. At her insistence, missing persons expert Frankie Elkin agrees to take up the search through the broiling streets of Tucson. Just in time for a video of the young mother to surface—showing her walking away from the scene of a brutal double murder. 

Frankie quickly realizes there’s much more to the Ahmadi family than meets the eye. The father Isaad is a brilliant mathematician, Sabera a gifted linguist, and their little girl Zahra—she has an uncanny ability to remember anything she sees. Which given everything that has happened during the girl’s short life, may be a terrible curse. When Isaad also disappears under mysterious circumstances and an attempt is made on Zahra’s life, Frankie realizes she must quickly crack the code of this family’s horrific past. 

Someone is coming for the Ahmadis. And violence is clearly an option. When everything is on the line, how far would you go to protect the ones you love? 

Frankie is about to find out.

Review:

Lisa Gardner continues to deliver with Kiss Her Goodbye, the fourth installment in the Frankie Elkin series—and honestly, I think I’m enjoying each book more than the last. This series is best read in order, as each installment builds beautifully on Frankie’s emotional and personal journey. Gardner has done such a fantastic job developing Frankie over time, and by this point, I’m fully invested in her. She’s a fascinating, complex character, she’s flawed, determined, and endlessly compelling.

In this installment, Frankie is in Tucson, Arizona (a fun detail for me as an AZ native!), searching for Sabera, a missing Afghan refugee. The narrative alternates between Frankie’s present day investigation and Sabera’s own story from the past, a structure that added a lot of depth and emotional weight. One of Gardner’s greatest strengths is creating fresh, original situations for Frankie to navigate, and this one is no exception. Each book feels distinct, and that keeps the series sharp and unpredictable.

The pacing here starts off more methodical, laying the groundwork for a case that grows more intense with each chapter. The final stretch is especially gripping, it’s full of emotional revelations, clever twists, and high stakes moments. It’s smart, layered, and packed with tension. If you’re already a fan of the series, you’ll be satisfied and maybe even surprised. If you’re new, I highly recommend starting from the beginning. Frankie Elkin is one of the most memorable characters I’ve followed in recent years, and her journey is absolutely worth taking.

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: July 22, 2025

Publisher: Gallery

Genre: Historical Fiction

Synopsis:

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo meets The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel in this enchanting novel about estranged lovers reconnecting over mysterious tapes found in an attic and the old Hollywood secret hidden within them.

After her grandmother’s death, thirty-something Margot DuBois prepares to sell the house quickly so she can go back to her predictable life in Santa Barbara. There, no one knows she used to write and that her lack of success wrecked her confidence. But while cleaning out the attic, she comes across eight unlabeled cassette tapes. Unable to use the damaged tape player, she calls in a favor from Leo—her first love and first epic heartbreak—and they strike a deal: he’ll fix the player if he can hear what’s on the tapes. When they manage to listen, the two are shocked to hear the voice of comedic legend Vivian Stone. Why did she record these tapes and how did Margot’s grandmother get them?

Between listening to Vivian recount everything from her forbidden love for Hollywood’s leading actor, to working under a misogynistic exec, to her chemistry with her costar-turned-husband on TV, Margot and Leo fall down a memory lane of their own. Margot is inspired by Vivian’s tenacity and courage to keep fighting for the life she wants, but everything changes when Vivian reveals a secret from her past in this moving exploration of how it’s never too late to start over.

Review:

This was a dazzling and emotional dual timeline historical fiction that swept me away from the very first page. Set against the glittering backdrop of old Hollywood, the story explores the life of Vivian Stone, a fierce and groundbreaking actress who refuses to let the era’s limitations define her. Flashing forward to the present day, we follow Margot, a writer piecing together Vivian’s legacy, and in doing so, begins to find her own purpose and truth.

What sets this novel apart is its captivating character work. Vivian has the bold charisma and charm of a screen legend, with shades of Lucille Ball’s comedic brilliance and emotional depth. While the book is being compared to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, I found Vivian Stone to have its own unique sparkle. Margot’s journey intertwines beautifully with Vivian’s, and both women felt fully fleshed out, complex, and deeply relatable. The shifting timelines never felt disjointed—instead, they enriched each other, revealing secrets, strength, and resilience.

This story truly has it all: romance, family drama, historical richness, and an undercurrent of mystery that kept me emotionally hooked. I was thoroughly invested in both timelines and all the supporting characters. It’s a love letter to ambitious women, untold stories, and the golden age of film. Whether you’re here for the Hollywood glam, the heart tugging emotion, or the slow burn uncovering of a life well lived, you’ll find something to love in this unforgettable read.

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: August 12, 2025

Publisher: Berkley

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Synopsis:

A retired serial killer’s quiet life is upended by an unexpected visitor. To protect her secret, there’s only one option left—what’s another murder? From bestselling author Samantha Downing.

Lottie Jones thought her crimes were behind her.

Decades earlier, she changed her identity and tucked herself away in a small town. Her most exciting nights are the weekly bingo games at the local church and gossiping with her friends. 

When investigative journalist Plum Dixon shows up on her doorstep asking questions about Lottie’s past and specifically her involvement with numerous unsolved cases, well, Lottie just can’t have that.

But getting away with murder is hard enough when you’re young. And when Lottie receives another annoying knock on the door, she realizes this crime might just be the death of her…

Review:

This is a fresh and whip smart thriller that stands out in a crowded genre. The concept alone, a retired serial killer pulled back into the game, feels like it shouldn’t work, but Downing pulls it off brilliantly. At the center of the story is Lottie, a sharp, cynical woman who’s equal parts terrifying and oddly relatable. Her internal monologue is razor edged and biting, but also full of the kind of real world frustrations that will have you nodding along (and maybe laughing inappropriately). Despite her dark past, she’s the kind of anti hero you can’t help but root for.

Lottie’s character is the real engine of this story, her observations on aging, invisibility, and how society treats older women are quietly powerful, layered beneath a slick and tightly plotted thriller. Downing doesn’t ask you to forgive Lottie, just to listen to her. And in doing so, the novel becomes more than just a clever cat and mouse game; it becomes a reflection on identity, reinvention, and the cost of disappearing from the world without ever actually dying.

With its addictive pacing, sly twists, and an unforgettable lead, this is a must read for thriller fans craving something truly original. It’s gripping, thought provoking, and unapologetically smart. Downing once again proves she knows exactly how to play with reader expectations—and win.

Overall rating: 5/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: August 12, 2025

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Canary Street Press

Synopsis:

Blurring the line between fiction and reality…

Mia Brady never imagined her romance novels would become bestsellers, much less inspire a hit TV show. However, after signing a deal to write the final book of the series, she’s struck by a serious case of writer’s block. Her fans are clamoring for a passionate payoff, but Mia’s own experience with heartbreak—and current lack of real-life romance—is getting in the way. Do friends who become lovers ever truly have a happy ending?

Gavin Lane would like to think so. As Mia’s ride-or-die BFF, he’s been by her side through it all and convinced himself his crush on her is a thing of the past. He’s not about to let his feelings ruin their friendship, and never will. But that doesn’t stop him from pitching a bold idea to help save Mia’s testing out tried-and-true love story tropes…together.

From workplace romance to fish-out-of-water, Mia and Gavin embark on a series of “dates” to spark a little creativity—but are not prepared for the flame that ignites between them. Does their friendship even stand a chance when pure fantasy suddenly becomes a little too real?

Review:

If you’re in the mood for a charming, trope filled romance with a big heart and a cozy vibe, Love is an Open Book by Chandra Blumberg delivers. The story follows Mia, a romance author in a bit of a creative slump, and Gavin, her longtime best friend who’s been secretly pining for her. When a mix up forces them to pretend they’re dating, their already deep bond begins to shift into something more.

This is the kind of book that fully embraces the romance genre, poking fun at beloved tropes while celebrating them at the same time. Friends to lovers, fake dating, forced proximity, and the ever satisfying “he falls first” all come into play. Mia and Gavin’s mutual fear of ruining their friendship adds just enough tension to balance out the sweeter, sillier elements. It’s playful and self aware, with moments that had me smiling throughout.

I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed the dual narration. Both narrators were new to me, but they brought fresh energy and distinct personality to Mia and Gavin. Their chemistry came through beautifully in audio, enhancing the cozy tone of the story. While I would’ve loved a bit more emotional depth in a few key moments, the overall vibe was heartfelt, fun, and flirty. A great pick for fans of soft romances that feel like comfort reads.

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: August 12, 2025

Publisher: William Morrow

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Synopsis:

The first thrilling mystery in the new North Falls series from Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of Pretty Girls and the Will Trent series.

Welcome to North Falls—a small town where everyone knows everyone. Or so they think. 

Until the night of the fireworks. When two teenage girls vanish, and the town ignites.

For Officer Emmy Clifton, it’s personal. She turned away when her best friend’s daughter needed help—and now she must bring her home.

But as Emmy combs through the puzzle the girls left behind, she realizes she never really knew them. Nobody did.

Every teenage girl has secrets. But who would kill for them? And what else is the town hiding?

Review:

Karin Slaughter has once again delivered a gritty, gripping, and deeply unsettling thriller in We Were All Guilty Here. This first book in a new series is a masterclass in dark, character driven storytelling. Set in a small town simmering with grief and secrets, the novel follows Emmy Lou Clifton—a sharp, complex, and determined lead—through a harrowing journey of truth, trauma, and justice. Slaughter’s signature style is on full display: sharp prose, brutal honesty, and a slow burning plot that explodes with payoff after payoff.

At the heart of the novel is the Clifton family, whose history is tangled with pain, betrayal, and a past that won’t stay buried. The way Slaughter unpacks grief, both individual and communal, is both gut wrenching and powerful. Family dynamics are explored with nuance and raw intensity, and the justice system plays a crucial role, with police procedural elements woven seamlessly into the story. Emmy Lou is a standout lead, she’s resilient, smart, and flawed in ways that make her feel real and compelling.

This is not a book for the faint of heart, the author doesn’t shy away from violence or graphic detail, but it never feels gratuitous, but do keep in mind most of the violence is towards young teenage girls. Every disturbing moment serves a purpose. It’s emotionally intense, morally murky, and impossible to put down. If you’re a fan of dark thrillers that make you think and feel deeply, this is essential reading. As the first in a series, We Were All Guilty Here sets the stage for what promises to be another unforgettable ride, I’m already desperate for book two.

Overall rating: 5/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: July 15, 2025

Publisher: Berkley Romance

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

Romance is the biggest scheme of them all in this laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from beloved author Alexa Martin.

Emerson Pierce loves everything about being a kindergarten teacher except the painfully low salary. It isn’t until she hears about Petunia Lemon—an opportunity to sell makeup products, make some extra money, and meet a group of skin-care aficionados—that she begins to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Sure, it sounds a little too good to be true, but what’s the worst that could happen?

Investigative reporter Lucas Miller didn’t always have a chip on his shoulder…until his wife joined Petunia Lemon, drained their savings, and filed for divorce. Now he’s a little bitter, a lot single, and determined to expose the company. After infiltrating their largest convention yet, the last thing he expects is to lose sight of his mission for one night with the gorgeous woman at the bar.

When Emerson and Lucas learn that she’s his daughter’s teacher, they decide to ignore their scorching chemistry. Until things with Petunia Lemon turn downright diabolical and Emerson turns to Lucas for help. They work together to bring the company down but can the two come out on top in this pyramid scheme of love?

Review:

This was a fun, spicy, and surprisingly insightful read that blends rom com charm with a sharp, timely critique of MLM culture. The story centers on Emerson, a kindergarten teacher with a heart of gold who’s navigating love, friendship, and her career. She’s a delightfully relatable heroine, she’s endearing, quirky, and easy to root for from the very first chapter.

Lucas, the romantic lead, brings the perfect amount of steadiness and swoon. He’s grounded, emotionally available, and a great match for Emerson’s big personality. Their chemistry is off the charts, making for some seriously steamy scenes, but the relationship also has heart and emotional depth that makes the romance feel earned. Watching them grow both together and individually adds a layer of richness that goes beyond your typical rom com.

One of the standout elements of the book is its MLM takedown subplot. It’s laugh out loud funny but also disturbingly realistic, highlighting how easily women, especially those looking for community or extra income, can get caught up in these exploitative schemes. Martin manages to keep things light and entertaining while still weaving in commentary that gives the story substance. This one strikes a perfect balance of humor, heat, and heart and was a total win for romance readers.

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: July 8, 2025

Publisher: Knopf

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Synopsis:

Innocence doesn’t bail you out; it just makes you easier to trap.

Frida and Gabriel arrive seeking a fresh start at the stunning Ara Hotel in the secluded desert of Escalante, Utah. Once so close they were able to finish each other’s sentences, they’ve grown apart in recent years after a sudden, unspeakable tragedy. Now, at the luxe resort, they are ready to reconnect between dips in the pool and hikes on spectacular desert trails. It all feels like paradise—until the dead body of a beautiful young woman who was vacationing at the Ara with her powerful, much older husband is discovered.

When the local police arrive and suspicion quickly falls on Gabriel, Frida is forced to revisit memories from their upbringing in a cloistered cult in upstate New York, their dramatic escape, and the scandal that followed. Frida’s belief in Gabriel’s innocence never wavered at the time, but now even she can’t ignore the evidence mounting against him.

Alternating between past and present timelines, Our Last Resort builds toward a shattering climax that uncovers the fate of the murdered Ara guest and poses the question: how well do we ever really know those we love? Multi-layered, gripping, and intense, Clémence Michallon’s latest suspense novel is a nail-biter until the last page, cementing her status as a major new talent in the genre.

Review:

Our Last Resort is one of those books that quietly sneaks up on you. It took me a little while to settle into the story, the pacing at the start felt a bit slow, and the structure was slightly disorienting at first. But once I got into the rhythm of it, I found myself fully pulled into this dark, layered mystery. The writing is quietly suspenseful, more atmospheric than action packed, and there’s a simmering sense of unease that builds as the story unfolds.

The novel follows Frida, who reunites with Gabriel, the man she was raised alongside in a cult. Though not related by blood, they share a deeply complicated history, and the story moves between present day Utah—where they’re on vacation together—and haunting flashbacks from their childhood. Frida’s voice is the only perspective we get, which adds to the tension, especially after a woman is found dead at their resort. From that point on, the book becomes a guessing game, Frida is constantly questioning how well she really knows Gabriel, and I found myself doing the same. I truly couldn’t decide whether he was innocent or hiding something more sinister.

If you’re in the mood for a slow burn with a payoff, this one’s worth sticking with. It’s not a traditional thriller with shocking twists on every page, but there’s a quiet intensity that kept me turning the pages. Michallon’s writing is sharp, and the exploration of trauma, memory, and the messy bond between Frida and Gabriel adds depth to the mystery. 

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: July 29, 2025

Publisher: Thomas and Mercer

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Synopsis:

In this thrilling debut, author Lissa Lovik plumbs the murky depths of a stalker’s mind as he insinuates himself into the life of the woman he’s determined to have and to hold . . . forever.

For Chris, it’s love at first sight. After their grocery store meet-cute, it’s easy to get her name from a fallen Serena. A quick online search reveals Serena’s status (single mom), address, and workplace. And once he discovers she’s a Realtor, Chris schedules a house showing right away. But he isn’t pushy—he’ll wait to ask her out.

In the meantime, he’ll just watch. And listen in. He wants to learn everything about her, so he can make her happy. It’s not creepy; it’s true love.

From their first date, their relationship is perfect. But Serena’s “bestie” keeps getting in the way. She thinks he’s just a friend, but Chris knows better. He knows better about a lot of things. Keeping her in line is getting harder, but their love is worth the effort.

The stars aligned when Chris and Serena met in that Winn-Dixie. And they’re going to be happy together . . . even if it kills them.

Review:

All Because of You is an impressive and chilling debut that delivers major You by Caroline Kepnes vibes in all the best (and worst) ways. From the very first chapter, I was sucked into the obsessive, twisted mind of Chris, whose fixation on Serena grows more intense and unsettling with every page. Told from his perspective, the story feels claustrophobic and disorienting in the most deliberate way, giving readers a deeply uncomfortable front row seat to his spiraling thoughts and manipulative behavior. It’s character driven and psychological, with the kind of slow burn suspense that creeps up on you until you’re completely immersed.

Chris is one of those deeply disturbing narrators who believes every decision he makes is completely justified. That’s what makes this story so fascinating and unnerving, his delusions are fully rationalized in his own mind, which adds a layer of tension that never lets up. Serena, the object of his obsession, is somewhat enigmatic on the page, which only reinforces how warped and one sided Chris’s perspective truly is. The toxicity is the point, and Lovick doesn’t shy away from making readers sit with that discomfort.

The pacing is steady throughout, not a breakneck thriller, but a methodically crafted descent into obsession. I truly wasn’t sure how things would end, which kept me turning pages late into the night. If you’re into dark psychological suspense, flawed characters, and stories that get under your skin, All Because of You is one to check out. I can’t wait to see what Lissa Lovick writes next.

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.

Goodreads

Release date: July 8, 2025

Publisher: Lake Union

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

Fate reunites a young woman with her ex-husband in a delightful and inspiring novel about family, old loves, and marriage on a dare by Wall Street Journalbestselling author Kerry Lonsdale.

Furniture artisan Meli Hynes still abides by her uncle’s truism: the only lasting love story is the one between artists and their creations. Having already given marriage a shot—for all of twenty-four hours during a Las Vegas fling—Meli made her choice. The wood-crafting shop that is her family legacy will always come first.

But when her uncle decides to sell to a competitor, Meli’s promised inheritance goes belly-up. She’ll do anything to muddle the deal. Including a marriage of convenience to an unforgettable and very practical old friend—the competitor’s son, Aaron. With a controlling family of his own, and every bit as impulsive as Meli, Aaron is in. After all, this isn’t the first time he and Meli got hitched on a whim.

The rules of the ruse are simple: public displays of affection and live together as happy newlyweds. The hardest rule of all? Never let real feelings get in the way of what they plan to be a purely professional second time around.

Review:

Kerry Lonsdale is known for blending genres with emotional depth and sharp storytelling, and in Falling for You Again, she shifts gears into a more classic romance—with her signature emotional complexity still fully intact. This story centers on Meli and Aaron, two characters with painful pasts and emotional baggage, who find themselves entangled in a marriage of convenience that quickly turns into something more. With tropes like fake dating and second chances layered in, it’s an irresistible setup, but what sets this book apart is how authentic and layered the characters feel, especially Meli.

The family dynamics bring an added layer of tension and depth. Meli’s relationship with her parents is nothing short of disastrous, and the messiness of those ties adds realism and emotional weight to her romantic journey. Lonsdale doesn’t shy away from hard truths about grief, expectations, and trying to rewrite your story when the past keeps holding you back. Still, for all the heaviness, the tone never gets too bleak, there’s a hopeful thread running through it all.

The audiobook narration by Amanda Leigh Cobb is a perfect match. Her voice has that comforting, familiar quality that feels like a friend recounting a deeply personal story. She brings Meli to life with warmth and emotional nuance, enhancing both the lighthearted and heavier moments in the story. Listening felt intimate, like I was being let in on something private and real.

Overall, Falling for You Again is an emotional and flirty read that strikes a great balance between fun and heartfelt. Whether you’re drawn to complicated family stories, emotional romance, or second chances that make your heart ache just a little before it soars, this one delivers. The audiobook especially makes for an engaging, binge worthy listen.

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.