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Release date: October 3, 2017

Publisher: Seventh Street Books

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Blurb:

Homicide Detective Max Rupert never fully accepted his wife’s death, even when he believed that a reckless hit and run driver was the cause. But when he learns that in fact she was murdered, he devotes himself to hunting down her killers. Most of his life he had thought of himself as a decent man. But now he’s so consumed with thoughts of retribution that he questions whether he will take that last step and enact the vengeance he longs for. 

On a frozen lake near the US-Canadian border, he wrestles with a decision that could change his life forever, as his hatred threatens to turn him into the kind of person he has spent a career bringing to justice. 

Review:

Last year I read my first Eskens book, The Heavens May Fall and was completely blown away. He is an insanely talented writer and his heroes are deeply flawed and vastly interesting and unique. While the characters in each book are the same, it’s not completely necessary to start at the beginning, they each work perfectly fine as a standalone. BUT, they’re so good that I would be remiss if I didn’t recommend reading them all. 

For five years Max has been haunted by his wife’s death and he’s finally tracked down her killer. This opens with Max and an unknown man locked in an intense situation in the middle of nowhere near the Canadian border and Max finally has the chance to get justice for his Jenni. It’s tense and thrilling, the frozen atmosphere lends to the chilly scene becoming a character all of it’s own and adding a layer of danger to an already deadly story. It flips back to three days prior as you follow Max as he tracks down the killer, then flips back and forth throughout all the way up to an explosive conclusion. 

I loved the moral struggle Max was facing throughout as he tried to bring revenge to a man who shattered his entire life. There was something poetic about him having a moral battle with himself while in the frozen wilderness that was both hauntingly beautiful and chilling. Vengeance and retribution is the name of the game here, this one kept me on the edge of my seat and flipping pages at a steady rate. If you haven’t read Eskens work you’re missing out, he’s a superbly talented author not to be missed.

Overall rating: 5/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy. 

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Release date: October 1, 2017

Publisher: Lake Union

Genre: Women’s Fiction

Blurb: 

The author of the Love in Provence series returns to the South of France with a poignant portrait of a woman who must learn how to create a new life for herself…

Sixty-two-year-old Arianna arrives in the South of France for a two-week artists’ workshop full of anticipation but burdened by guilt. Back home in Toronto, she has been living with the devastating diagnosis of her husband’s dementia and the heartbreak of watching the man she has loved for decades slip away before her eyes. What does her future hold without Ben? Before her is a blank canvas.

Encouraged by her family to take some time for herself, she has traveled to Arles to set up her easel in the same fields of poppies and sunflowers that inspired Van Gogh. Gradually, she rediscovers the inner artist she abandoned long ago. Drawing strength from the warm companionship and gentle wisdom of her fellow artists at the retreat—as well as the vitality of guest lecturer Jacques de Villeneuve, an artist and a cowboy—Arianna searches her heart for permission to embrace the life in front of her and, like the sunflowers, once again face the light. 

Review: 

A few months back I read Sands Love in Provence series and absolutely loved it, she creates realistic characters in the most beautiful settings dealing with the same type of issues and problems that many of us can relate to on some level. She takes the reader on a poignant and emotional journey that is just a gorgeous experience. 

I adored her protagonist Katherine from LIP and was hoping I would have another strong connection to Arianna and I totally did! I love that Sands has heroines that are not in their twenties, they’re more mature and worldly bringing a sophistication to the story. Arianna’s situation was heart wrenching, dementia is a devastating disease and I had so much sympathy for her. When she takes a chance and heads to the artists retreat she begins a journey of personal growth and self introspection that was amazing. The rest of the people at the retreat are eclectic and interesting, they added an additional layer of depth to the story. 

Sands truly brings a setting to life, from the mouthwatering, scrumptious food descriptions to the stunning landscapes she paints the prettiest picture with her prose. There was a strong, rich sense of history of Arles that was fascinating, I’m not a history buff or remotely artistic by any means but it was compelling and I definitely learned a few new things. This was a bittersweet read with plenty of life lessons and inspiration, a really positive and lovely tale. 

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy. 

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Release date: September 26, 2017

Publisher: Dutton Books

Genre: Mystery/Thriller 

Blurb: 

With unmatched suspense and emotional insight, Harlan Coben explores the big secrets and little lies that can destroy a relationship, a family, and even a town in this powerful new thriller.

Suburban New Jersey Detective Napoleon “Nap” Dumas hasn’t been the same since senior year of high school, when his twin brother Leo and Leo’s girlfriend Diana were found dead on the railroad tracks—and Maura, the girl Nap considered the love of his life, broke up with him and disappeared without explanation. For fifteen years, Nap has been searching, both for Maura and for the real reason behind his brother’s death. And now, it looks as though he may finally find what he’s been looking for. 

When Maura’s fingerprints turn up in the rental car of a suspected murderer, Nap embarks on a quest for answers that only leads to more questions—about the woman he loved, about the childhood friends he thought he knew, about the abandoned military base near where he grew up, and mostly about Leo and Diana—whose deaths are darker and far more sinister than Nap ever dared imagine. 

Review: 

Coben is an auto buy author for me, I’ve read every single one of his books and have never been disappointed by any of them. I LOVE his Myron Bolitar series but his standalones work well for me too and this one was no exception. There’s a brief cameo from Myron at one point when he crosses paths with Nap which was such an unexpected treat! The main character, Nap reminded me of a combination of Myron and Win so my craving for them was partially satiated. This was twisty and full of deceit and long buried betrayals, classic Coben doing what he does extremely well. 

Nap was the kind of standard character fans know and love in Coben’s books, he has that trademark dry humor and wit, he’s smart, sharp and the type of cop that’s not afraid to skirt the boundaries of the law and he’s loyal to a fault. I immediately connected with him, his story is heartbreaking, he lost his twin brother and his girlfriend within a short period of time and has never quite been the same since. All he wants are answers and he may finally be getting them, but it’s all much more than he ever expected, the lies are stacking up and nothing makes sense, how much of the past was fact and what was fiction? 

I can’t say much more about the plot, but this was excellent, Coben is a master and this was a strong reminder for me as to why he’s one of my all time favorite authors. He’s simply one of the best and if you haven’t read one of his books before they all come highly recommended by me. 

Overall rating: 5/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy. 

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Release date: September 5, 2017

Publisher: Lyrical Press

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Blurb: 

SUGAR, SEA SALT, AND SHOW BIZ

Jen Reid’s life after walking off a reality show has been great–she’s gone from being a broke twenty-four-year-old Seattleite with no love life and no job to the twenty-five-year-old who got the guy, moved to Miami, and is starting a bakery with her best friend. She thinks her showmance love might be about to propose. And with mouthwatering goodies based on everyone’s favorite shows, her business, Sweet Reality, is destined for success.

That is, until a killer competitor opens right across the street. If she’s going to save Sweet Reality, Jen has to come up with a secret ingredient–like the recipe that won Totally 80s Bake-Off. Jen can get it–if she steps back into the spotlight. Soon she and her boyfriend are out to sea on a cruise ship full of reality stars, including her nemesis, Ariana; her lying, cheating ex; and some wicked producers looking to bring the drama. Separate cabins, “surprises” from her past, and scenarios tailor-made to spark fights are just the beginning. But with her self-respect, her business, and her future on the line, the fallout from this made-for-TV plotline will be all too real . . .

Review: 

Most of you have heard me say this before, but for those of you that don’t already know, I’m a HUGE reality TV junkie, the trashier the better. If you saw my DVR you would probably cringe in embarrassment, but I have no shame. Real Housewives? Yep, every city. Teen Mom? Yes please, both OG, 2 and the U.K. versions. Top Chef? Uh huh. Big Brother? Hell yes, I can’t wait for the finale tonight although I can’t stand any of the remaining cast members. I could go on and on, but my point here is that combining my love of reading with reality TV is my idea of nirvana.

This is the second book in a series and unfortunately I did not have a chance to read the first. This one picks up over a year after the first book ends and the author provided just enough backstory for me to feel all caught up. Jen and her boyfriend Justin met on a reality show, they had a showmance, and against all odds are still happily dating. When they get invited to film a different show aboard a cruise ship they jump at the chance. It’s seven days of drama and I loved every bit of it!

This is a total guilty pleasure read, light, fluffy and totally outrageous. Jen is the girl next door type with a side of sass and her and Justin were adorable, even if their communication skills were awful, but their miscommunication was my fortune as it added some very juicy drama. There’s backstabbing, frenemies, plain old enemies, and it has a racy, naughty aspect as well. There were even some tender moments in the end that I wasn’t expecting. If you want a behind the scenes look at the world of reality TV and the manipulations and betrayals it produces, you’ll like this one! 

Overall rating: 3.5/5 (I knocked off half a star because I hate the cover. Yes, I’m awful but it bothers me that much.)

Thanks to the author for my review copy. 

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Release date: September 19, 2017

Publisher: Graydon House

Genre: Psychological Thriller

Blurb: 

I glance at my wife as she climbs into the passenger seat, and I am bursting with confidence. Today will be everything I’ve promised her…and more…

Paul Strom has the perfect life: a glittering career as an advertising executive, a beautiful wife, two healthy boys and a big house in a wealthy suburb. And he’s the perfect husband: breadwinner, protector, provider. That’s why he’s planned a romantic weekend for his wife, Mia, at their lake house, just the two of them. And he’s promised today will be the best day ever.

But as Paul and Mia drive out of the city and toward the countryside, a spike of tension begins to wedge itself between them and doubts start to arise. How much do they trust each other? And how perfect is their marriage, or any marriage, really? 

Forcing us to ask ourselves just how well we know those who are closest to us, Best Day Ever crackles with dark energy, spinning ever tighter toward its shocking conclusion. In the bestselling, page-turning vein of The Couple Next Door and The Dinner, Kaira Rouda weaves a gripping, tautly suspenseful tale of deception and betrayal dark enough to destroy a marriage…or a life. 

Review: 

I have to start by saying that as gorgeous as the cover for Best Day Ever is in a picture it is absolutely stunning in person! I think it may be my favorite book cover of the year so far. If you’re a sucker for a pretty book do yourself a favor and order a copy of this one. 

This is told solely from Paul’s point of view as him and his wife Mia head out to their lake house for a much needed weekend away. He speaks directly to the reader and at times it felt like he was slowly confessing his past sins, secrets and betrayals. He spoon feeds information only when he is ready, it’s very important for this man to be in total control at all times. The tension is a slow build, you know right from the start that not all is as perfect as Paul wants everyone to think it is, there is a simmering hostility bubbling underneath the surface of every single page. I questioned his reliability constantly and never knew if he was delusional, totally insane or maybe even telling the truth?!

Paul as a character is super over the top, his sinister behavior is extreme to the max, but he is an extremely well drawn villian, I really felt like I was getting a glimpse inside the mind of a very disturbed individual with terrible intentions. As you slowly learn what motivates him I was completely captivated by his past and also how his relationship with Mia first began and how it progressed to the point it’s at today.

I did see where things were headed fairly early on, but I think this was purposeful on Rouda’s part, she wanted you to pick up on some subtle hints and veiled threats, it really heightened the anticipation factor. And as far as guessing what would happen? Well, I wasn’t totally right anyway, there were plenty of surprises towards the end that I didn’t see coming at all, I always LOVE that! The ending was really strong, I especially liked the epilogue and felt it added something necessary and it left things pretty much reconciled which I always appreciate. This was a chilling look at one messed up marriage, if you like domestic suspense you’ll enjoy this one. 

Overall rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to the Great Thought’s Ninja Review Team for my advanced copy and to Get Red PR for my physical ARC! All opinions are my own.”

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Release date: September 19, 2017

Genre: Psychological Thriller 

Blurb: 

Work colleague. Friend. Killer. 

From the million seller author comes a gripping psychological thriller. 

A successful businesswoman, Tamara enjoys her champagne lifestyle to the full. At least, that is the front she displays to the world. As well as being lonely, she’s running out of money. A promising new member of staff brings the injection of fresh blood needed to win the contract that will turn things around.

Working for Tamara is a perfect ruse for Esther. But, along with fake references and qualifications, she also has a plan for revenge. Sensing Tamara’s vulnerability, Esther uses their acquaintance as a way of getting close to someone who hurt her in the past. 

Tamara is keeping things secret. Esther has a dark side she is trying to hide. For both of them, lying is a habit. But when mistakes begin to catch up with Esther, and people start dying, Tamara realises she’s chosen the wrong person to trust as a friend. 

Review: 

I have to start by wishing Mel a very happy publication day!! Though she has written many books I’ve only read two, the books in the Eden Berrishford series and I’ve not read any of her psychological thrillers before, and boy have I been missing out! While her other books are more dark and gritty, this one was still dark, albeit in a different manner but there was still a very strong sinister vibe and twists and turns aplenty. 

The story focuses on two women, Tamara and Esther who at first glance seem worlds apart, but upon further inspection they may have more in common than meets the eye. Both have secrets in their pasts that they would like to keep quiet and both have a history of instability, making me constantly question who was reliable or if either of them even were?! The lies and betrayals run deep with these two and they both seemed to have hidden agendas that weren’t revealed until the end. 

True to Sherratt’s usual form this opens with a tense scene then flips to three months prior and it also occasionally flashes to the present day. This is fairly fast paced and kept me on my toes throughout as I tried to piece together the past events as well as try to connect them to what was happening currently. Sherratt has the unique ability to create characters that are memorable but also believable, the scenarios she conjures up are scary because you can actually imagine them happening, there is a realism to her writing style that is riveting. 

I feel like I’ve said enough in terms of the plot, but if you like psychological thrillers you will enjoy this one. That sense of uneasiness and dread is felt throughout, the various plot threads come together in a stunning way and the ending had the exact type of chill that I adore in a great book! 

Overall rating: 4.5/5

Thanks to the author for my review copy. 

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Release date: September 19, 2017

Publisher: Quirk Books

Genre: Non Fiction 

Blurb: 

Take a tour through the horror paperback novels of the 1970s and ’80s . . . if you dare. Page through dozens and dozens of amazing book covers featuring well-dressed skeletons, evil dolls, and knife-wielding killer crabs! Read shocking plot summaries that invoke devil worship, satanic children, and haunted real estate! Horror author and vintage paperback book collector Grady Hendrix offers killer commentary and witty insight on these trashy thrillers that tried so hard to be the next Exorcist or Rosemary’s Baby. It’s an affectionate, nostalgic, and unflinchingly funny celebration of the horror fiction boom of two iconic decades, complete with story summaries and artist and author profiles. You’ll find familiar authors, like V. C. Andrews and R. L. Stine, and many more who’ve faded into obscurity. Plus recommendations for which of these forgotten treasures are well worth your reading time and which should stay buried. 

Review: 

Paperbacks from Hell is not the sort of book I would normally gravitate towards, in general I don’t real much non fiction and I rarely read a horror novel. But when I was a kid, mainly from around nine to thirteen I read a ton of R. L. Stine, Christopher Pike and the southern gothic horror of V. C. Andrews. When I was offered a review copy of this book I thought it would be a great opportunity to revisit some long forgotten authors, but I didn’t anticipate being so fascinated by the history of horror fiction! 

This is a cross between a textbook and a coffee table book, it sounds weird, and it totally is, this book definitely has a touch of odd, but it works brilliantly. It’s a really cool book, the pages are matte and the quality is outstanding. There is a plethora of amazingly horrifying old book covers that made me laugh and cringe, they’re so bad they’re good, and Hendrix has culminated a list of the best of the worst divided into chapters based on what was hot at the time. There are sections on creepy kids, cults, gothic romance, animal attacks and science mishaps and much more. He also provides some insight into what publishing houses were going for during the seventies and eighties and it was shocking, eye opening and totally entertaining. 

This was a really fun read, a total blast from the past and one that even caught my husband’s eye while I was reading it. Mostly in a WTF are you reading now kind of way, but still.  I can’t wait to leave this laying around the house, it’ll be an awesome conversation piece and I can see myself flipping through it again and again for amusement. 

Overall rating: 4/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy. 

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Release date: September 12, 2017

Publisher: Crooked Lane Books

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Blurb: 

Sometimes the truth is darker than fiction.

Liza Jones has thirty days to write the thriller that could put her back on the bestseller list. In the meantime, she’s struggling to start a family with her husband, who is distracted by the disappearance of his best friend, Nick. With stresses weighing down in both her professional and her personal life, Liza escapes into writing her latest heroine.

Beth is a new mother who suspects her husband is cheating on her while she’s home alone providing for their newborn. Angry and betrayed, Beth sets out to catch him in the act and make him pay for shattering the illusion of their perfect life. But before she realizes it, she’s tossing the body of her husband’s mistress into the river.

Then the lines between fiction and reality begin to blur. Nick’s body is dragged from the Hudson and Liza’s husband is arrested for his murder. Before her deadline is up, Liza will have to face up to the truths about the people around her, including herself. If she doesn’t, the end of her heroine’s story could be the end of her own. 

Review: 

There is something about a book within a book that always intrigues me and when it’s done well it can be mind blowingly good. Lies She Told is done extremely well, it’s cleverly plotted, the protagonist is an author, (I LOVE books that give me a glimpse into the literary world) and is SO addictive, it really is unputdownable, I raced through it in one sitting. Ok, I did have to stop a few times, my kids wanted food. So needy. But I was totally engrossed by every single page of this twisty thriller. 

This alternates between Liza, an suspense author who has thirty days to deliver her next book and it better be good because her last novel? Forgettable. She’s undergoing experimental fertility treatments and dealing with the disappearance of her husband’s best friend, Nick. Beth is the lead in Liza’s work in progress, a young new mom who finds out her husband is cheating. The lines between reality and fiction are blurred when Liza’s real life is eerily similar to Beth’s fictional life. Or is Beth’s life real and Liza’s actually fake? Is Liza taking inspiration from her own life when writing Beth’s story? Unreliable narration at it’s finest ladies and gentleman, I had no idea who was telling the truth and then Holahan kept delivering killer twists that left me breathless. 

Lies She Told has SO many layers that slowly get peeled back, it’s one of those books where you really need to pay attention, both in Liza’s chapters as well as Beth’s. It’s highly complex but not confusing, the switch between narrators is seamless and I was equally engaged by both storylines. It’s intelligent and compulsive with a unique premise that will have you flipping pages faster and faster right up until the dramatic conclusion. I highly recommend this one for suspense lovers looking for a fresh, unique take on a psychological thriller!

Overall rating: 5/5

Thanks to the publisher for my review copy.