This April reading recap features a mix of contemporary fiction, thrillers, and romance, highlighting standout books by Sarah Morgan, Sally Hepworth, and Alex Finlay. With a strong focus on early summer reading vibes, this wrap-up includes bingeable thrillers, character-driven fiction, and feel-good, escapist reads perfect for beach season. Also included are April book recommendations, a spring reading list, quarter one favorites, and current reads ranging from fast-paced suspense to light, summery romance. Ideal for readers looking for April reading wrap-ups, summer book recommendations, and seasonal TBR inspiration
Category: Reviews
The One Day You Were My Husband
Release date: May 19, 2026 Publisher: Pamela Dorman Genre: Contemporary Fiction Synopsis: From the New York Times -bestselling author of Ghosted and The Love of My Life comes another love story wrapped in a an up-all-night thriller with a dark secret at its core 2010. Carrie and Johan, madly in love, marry on the beach in Thailand, five months into their … Continue reading The One Day You Were My Husband
Safe Keeping by Kristen Proby
Goodreads Release date: April 28, 2026 Publisher: Brillance Audio Genre: Contemporary Romance Synopsis: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kristen Proby returns to Triple Creek Ranch with a sizzling romance between a brooding ex–Secret Service agent and the president’s daughter he’s sworn to protect. Five years ago, Secret Service Agent Gideon James took a bullet to … Continue reading Safe Keeping by Kristen Proby
Summer State of Mind by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Escape to the coast with Kristy Woodson Harvey's captivating novel, where love, secrets, and community theater collide in a story of resilience and belonging.
The Anniversary by Alex Finlay
Goodreads Release date: May 12, 2026 Publisher: Minotaur Genre: Mystery/Thriller Synopsis: Every Year He Comes For Them.On one fateful night in 1992, the lives of two seventeen-year-olds are changed and intertwined forever. Quinn Riley, a boy from the wrong side of the tracks, is arrested after he innocently tries to break up a fight but … Continue reading The Anniversary by Alex Finlay
Ms. Mebel Goes Back to the Chopping Block by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Ms. Mebel's journey from a privileged housewife to a culinary student is a quirky and heartwarming tale of self-discovery and unexpected friendship. Join her as she navigates the challenges of her new life and learns to embrace her true self.
Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth
From the moment you start reading *Mad Mabel*, you're drawn into the enigmatic world of Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick. This gripping mystery will keep you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the secrets of this unforgettable character.
Five Star Summer by Sarah Morgan
Discover the magic of Five Star Summer, an audiobook that combines heartfelt storytelling with stunning seaside settings. From the determined hotel manager Evie to the enigmatic owner Alexandra and the spirited Abby, this layered and character-driven narrative will leave you spellbound and longing for more
The Caretaker by Marcus Kliewer
Goodreads Release date: April 14, 2026 Publisher: Atria/Emily Bestler Genre: Horror, Thriller Synopsis: Follow the Rites...Nothing less than the survival of humanity is at stake.From Marcus Kliewer, a new “titan of the macabre and unsettling” (Erin A. Craig, #1 New York Times bestselling author), comes a supernatural horror about a young woman who accepts a … Continue reading The Caretaker by Marcus Kliewer
Wicked Women by Angela Marsons
Looking for a gripping police procedural that still delivers deep character development 20+ books in? Wicked Women by Angela Marsons, the twenty-third installment in the Detective Kim Stone series, proves why this long-running crime series remains a fan favorite. With a dark, intricately plotted case involving multiple victims, moral ambiguity, and shocking twists, this fast-paced thriller keeps readers hooked from start to finish. In this review, I share why Kim Stone continues to stand out as one of the most compelling detectives in crime fiction—and why this series is a must-read for fans of intense, character-driven mysteries.
