THE INHERITANCE is Trisha Sakhlecha’s US debut thriller and I really think this book will be a hit for readers. A combination of family saga meets mysTHE INHERITANCE is Trisha Sakhlecha’s US debut thriller and I really think this book will be a hit for readers. A combination of family saga meets mystery/thriller, this book is centered around an uber rich family with secrets galore. Raj Agarwal is a business tycoon who is about to announce the succession of his estate to his wife and children, and has planned for a gathering on a private, luxury island off the west coast of Scotland. His family includes his wife Shalini, Myra (his daughter who is most dedicated to the success of the family), Aseem (the son and possible heir to the company), and Aisha (the youngest daughter and socialite of the family). Aseem also brings his influencer wife Zoe to attend this reunion. When the reunion ends in murder, each one of them has a reason to keep their secrets safe. The foundation of this family must be protected at all costs.
THE INHERITANCE is definitely a strong family saga, and at times, a drama moreso than a thriller. That being said, I truly enjoyed diving into the chaos and dynamics between this family. Each of them has their own guilty secrets that were all developed strongly and portrayed deeply personal within the story. The story is a slow burn, but the payoff at the end is surely worth it. I think my jaw hit the floor after finishing this story. Please note, there’s definitely trigger warnings towards the end, so if you are sensitive to some specifics, please DM me and I can confirm or deny them to you. I am excited to see what this author has in store for us next!...more
I love Rachel Harrison's books so much and when I heard about her latest novel, SO THIRSTY, I knew that I wanted to prioritize it as soon as possible.I love Rachel Harrison's books so much and when I heard about her latest novel, SO THIRSTY, I knew that I wanted to prioritize it as soon as possible. Rachel Harrison creates the perfect cocktail of horror, contemporary fiction, feminist-empowering stories I've read in recent years, and and SO THIRSTY is no exception!
The story is centered around Sloane Parker and her friend Naomi. Sloane is about to celebrate her birthday and when her husband Joel surprises her with a weekend getaway with her friend Naomi, Sloane feels a bit concerned that he didn't want to spend it with her. Regardless, Sloane is excited to catch up with her chaos addicted friend and the two spend a weekend away at a nice bed and breakfast while enjoying wine tastings and relaxation. When Naomi plans a night out with Sloane, the two meet a group of people at the bar and are invited to their house for a party, but it quickly takes an unexpected turn. Sloane and Naomi must come to terms with what their new normal will be whether they like it or not.
SO THIRSTY is unique because it's a story about people turning into vampires and coming to accept it. There's so many metaphorical messages within this center of conflict that ring true for different types of things going on within peoples' lives. I found the journey of these new vampires utterly intriguing and also very satirical that I couldn't put it down and finished within two sittings. The is the ultimate testament to a good novel! I did not looooove the ending, as I felt like it ended a bit too early, but overall this book is an amazing installment in Rachel Harrison's rolodex of supernatural modern-day horror reads. If you've read and enjoyed any of this author's previous works, you will hands-down love this one. Rachel Harrison has become an auto-read author for me, so make sure you put this one on your TBR! ...more
THE FAVORITES is a massive shift for popular thriller author, Layne Fargo, and is her most buzzy book yet! To the world, they were a scandal; to each THE FAVORITES is a massive shift for popular thriller author, Layne Fargo, and is her most buzzy book yet! To the world, they were a scandal; to each other, an obsession. Katarina Shaw, a determined skater without fame, funding, or family support, and Heath Rocha, a foster kid longing for belonging, became an unstoppable duo on the ice—until a shocking Olympic incident ended their partnership. Now, as a controversial documentary threatens to reshape their legacy, Kat breaks her silence to share the untold story of love, ambition, and betrayal that captivated the world.
THE FAVORITES gave me massive Taylor Jenkins Reid vibes, so just know that going into it. In the same vein of Daisy Jones & The Six, the story jumps from first person POV to interview transcripts, which is a really fun way for storytelling this drama. THE FAVORITES is a drama between a bunch of frienemies in the figure skating world, but it's ultimately a romance between two headstrong and highly controversial figure skaters. This book isn't usually something I would dive into, but since I love this author's latest releases, I knew that I needed to try it. The story is juicy drama from the start and the ending had my jaw hit the floor. I highly recommend this book to readers and I'm so proud of Layne Fargo for jumping into a different world of fiction. I'm excited to see where Layne Fargo goes next!...more
Jaclyn Goldis has been on my radar ever since her debut novel, The Chateau, was released last year. Once I saw this gorgeous cover, I knew that THE MAJaclyn Goldis has been on my radar ever since her debut novel, The Chateau, was released last year. Once I saw this gorgeous cover, I knew that THE MAIN CHARACTER (which I also call myself) was a book that I needed to read.
Infusing the elements of Murder on the Orient Express, Everyone on This Train is a Suspect, and Who is Maud Dixon, THE MAIN CHARACTER takes place on a renovated Orient Express train through Italy. Rory was hired to help Ginevra Ex, a famous mystery author, for her next book. Rory is the inspiration for Ginevra's next book and as a gift, she gives her a ticket on this unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience. That is, until she discovers that her brother Max, her best friend Caroline, and her ex-fiancé Nathan are all aboard the train, all invited by Ginevra. As the journey from Rome to Positano continues, it becomes clear that this was a masterminded attempt for story, but nobody took into account what would happen when a murder happens aboard the train.
This book is similar to Goldis' debut in which it's a light mystery in a character-driven drama. The story slowly builds with each chapter, but it's definitely not the fast paced race-against-the-clock you may expect since we're in a locked room mystery. If you liked the books I mentioned above and Lucy Foley's novels, THE MAIN CHARACTER is definitely your speed. I had fun with this one and was glad that I picked it up at a time where I wanted more time to dive into a world with a book. I am excited to see what Jaclyn Goldis has in store for readers next. STARS: 3.5, PUB: 5/21...more
INVISIBLE WOMAN is a suspense-driven drama that reflects the MeToo Movement in Hollywood. Centered around filmmaker Joni Ackerman and her family, thisINVISIBLE WOMAN is a suspense-driven drama that reflects the MeToo Movement in Hollywood. Centered around filmmaker Joni Ackerman and her family, this story shows the complexities of marriage and friendship. Joni and her husband Paul have moved from Los Angeles to Brooklyn so Paul can launch a production studio, but their marriage is rocked when an associate of his has been linked to sexual assault and rape of multiple women in Hollywood. Joni decides to speak with her friend Val who was raped by this influential industry executive when she was younger, but when she's reluctant to speak publicly about it, Joni pushes even harder to get her to speak up. Not knowing how much involved Joni will actually be if Val speaks up, they are contentious on how to move forward. Speaking up against powerful people can have its own consequences.
This book is very powerful and the writing was great. It took a bit (around 70ish pages) for the story to pick up and I ultimately guessed everything correctly with how it would unfold, but that didn't take away from being invested in the story. This isn't a thriller (maybe a light mystery), but more so a character-driven suspense drama. I read this book in two sittings and it's fairly easy to get into, so if you're looking for something to binge, definitely consider INVISIBLE WOMAN. Please don't read more synopsis information about this book as it is a bit heavy on the spoilers. I would definitely read more from Katia Lief in the future. ...more
Rachel Koller Croft is one of my favorite authors and people ever. I became a stalker, I mean a fan of hers after reading and loving her debut novel, Rachel Koller Croft is one of my favorite authors and people ever. I became a stalker, I mean a fan of hers after reading and loving her debut novel, Stone Cold Fox, so when I was given the opportunity to show the cover reveal and read her new 2024 novel, WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE early, I knew I had to jump at the chance. Thank you @berkleypub for the gifted copy. If you're a fan of Stone Cold Fox, WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE will be the book for you.
Rachel Koller Croft excels at telling bitchy thrillers with camp, drama, and social dynamics between women and WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE is no different. In a voice you've come to love, Rachel's new novel focuses on two women, specifically Nicola and Amber. Nicola and Amber meet in 1979 and the bond they create becomes too magnetic to ignore. So much in fact that Nicola turns Amber into a vampire. Yes, Nicola is a vampire and now is Amber's maker. Hear me out thriller fans, the vampire story is a big theme throughout the book, but isn't the central one. While Amber and Nicola navigate throughout the years, they continue to bond over their love of disco and the nightlife. Nearly 50 years later, Amber is ready to break out of Nicola's shell. However, Nicola is a very powerful and influential vampire in the world that is thought to be make-believe. As Amber tries to hatch a plan for her freedom from Nicola, she has to watch closely, because Nicola has been around the block much longer than Amber and is prepared for anything.
WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE could be a cousin to Stone Cold Fox in voice and toxic female dynamics, but it's a very different type of story than the author's predecessor. WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE is a genre-mashup and hard to pinpoint down specifically where it gravitates to. I'm thinking a light thriller, women's fiction, drama, character-driven, vampire story. See! I had such a freaking blast reading this and my heart went out to one specific character so much. There's a bit of steam in this book, and a few hotties that I think I have a crush on! WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE is a the perfect combination of True Blood meets Studio 54 meets Thirteen (remember that movie?!). Rachel Koller Croft has quickly become my favorite author and I can't wait to see what's next for her. If WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE is any indication, I'm sure she will continue to keep readers guessing. ...more
Carinn Jade's debut novel, THE ASTROLOGY HOUSE has been buzzing around social media for the last couple of months, so I was very excited to pick up thCarinn Jade's debut novel, THE ASTROLOGY HOUSE has been buzzing around social media for the last couple of months, so I was very excited to pick up the audiobook via @librofm. The cover is gorgeous and the whole astrology spin sounded utterly unique!
THE ASTROLOGY HOUSE is centered around several wealthy New Yorkers heading to an astrology-themed retreat at the Stars Harbor Astrological Retreat. Margot and her friends need this time to disconnect with their own dramas, but at the same time reconnect with each other. The story is told between multiple POVs with a big cast of characters, but when secrets start simmering to the top, we are given a shocking death and everyone is a suspect.
THE ASTROLOGY HOUSE definitely gave me Lucy Foley vibes so if you like that author, you will most likely enjoy THE ASTROLOGY HOUSE. The astrology spin and content was a lot of fun and I enjoyed that aspect of the book. Its slower paced and more of a drama than expected since the book isn't too long, so it did take me longer than expected to listen to the audiobook. The drama and juice were slightly triggering for me as this book dives into very detailed relationship dramas, but I did appreciate how the story evolved. The audiobook was incredible and you can definitely see Carinn Jade's storytelling take center stage. I will gladly read this author's next book as I definitely feel she has found a niche subgenre within the mystery/thriller fiction world. ...more
HOT SPRINGS DRIVE is my first read by Lindsay Hunter, but will definitely not be my last. Disclaimer, I did the audiobook for this one via @4.5 stars!
HOT SPRINGS DRIVE is my first read by Lindsay Hunter, but will definitely not be my last. Disclaimer, I did the audiobook for this one via @librofm and I'm not entirely sure if my experience listening and reading would be the same. The story is centered around a group of neighbors and friends, specifically Jackie and her best friend Theresa. The two are not only best friends, but they're going through the trials and tribulations of motherhood and marriage. Their bond is tight, but when Jackie ends up having an affair with Theresa's husband, their lives are changed forever.
I'm purposely being vague about this one, so don't read any spoilers. HOT SPRINGS DRIVE is basically about a neighborhood all having hardcore sex with each other and then someone dies. I won't got into it anymore than that so don't ask! I absolutely had a blast with this one, but the plot is mainly internalized characterizations for all the characters the author presents us. This book dives into sex and sexuality, role of the family unit, lust and desire, and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their peace. I very rarely give 4.5 stars for a book, but I just had so much fun with this one. Lindsay Hunter is officially an auto-read author for me from here on out. ...more
First and foremost, I was immediately captivated by Celine Saintclare's debut novel, SUGAR, BABY by the cover alone. Both the US and UK covers are droFirst and foremost, I was immediately captivated by Celine Saintclare's debut novel, SUGAR, BABY by the cover alone. Both the US and UK covers are drop dead gorgeous and will be covers I'll always obsess over. The story follows 21 year old Agnes, a mixed-race housekeeper who spends her money on nightlife and enjoys the company of men who don't respect her. That is, until she meets Emily. Emily is the daughter of one of her clients and she lives in London as a model and a sugar baby. Emily dates and spends time with older, rich, men for money. When Agnes sees the lifestyle that this has afforded Emily, she quickly follows her lead. Emily takes Agnes under her wing and transforms her into a sugar baby of her own.
Agnes' life completely changes into this world of sex, power, and extravagance. She moves in with Emily and her sugar baby peers in London and the group works to make money together as a team of their own. Money and discretion at all costs. As Agnes dives deeper into this luxurious, dark world of its own, she starts seeing that maybe the life she once had wasn't necessarily so bad. As she ventures into one precarious relationship to the next, Agnes finds her own path towards self-discovery.
This book is not a thriller, so do not go into it thinking that. It's a contemporary literary fiction, with elements of drama and romance. SUGAR, BABY dives into many different topics, specifically sexuality, religious trauma, sex work, female sexuality, mental health, power dynamics between men and women, race, the beauty industry, and female relationships. This book touches a lot of different topics and it personalizes sex work in a way that I haven't seen other books that talk about it. I felt very invested in how the story will unfold and it's really showcasing the honest depiction of sex work in a non-judgmental way. This book is hard to review because I don't want to give much away, but there's a side of vulnerability that comes from reading about Agnes' journey. I cannot wait to see what Celine Saintclare has up her sleeve next—what an incredible debut novel!...more
What drew me to immediately pick up Nalini Singh's newest book, THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN EIGHT was the cover (guilty!). I loveeee covers with mysteriousWhat drew me to immediately pick up Nalini Singh's newest book, THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN EIGHT was the cover (guilty!). I loveeee covers with mysterious estates; it's a trope I always fall for when it comes to picking up mystery/thriller novels. THERE SHOULD HAVE BEEN EIGHT is my first venture into Nalini Singh's writing, but I can see why readers of contemporary fiction like her.
The story focuses on a group of friends reconnecting at one of their friend's family home years after their death. Bea was such a staple in this group of friends' lives, but when they reminisce about their history with her at her family's estate, they end up being snowed in. Friends become enemies, old flames reconnect, and new lovers are all joined—the secrets between this group begin to unravel. Bea's mysterious death begins to become front and center with the new developments from this group. Maybe reconnecting with old connections isn't always for the best—especially if you have secrets to hide.
This book reminded me so much of THE CHATEAU and BRIGHT AND DEADLY THINGS—two books that were recently released this year, so if you're a fan of those books, please consider picking this one up. The book is a slow burn suspense, so definitely pick this one up when you're looking to digest a story a little bit more slowly. It's not a super dark mystery/thriller, so readers who get nervous with this genre should not worry. I would be interested in seeing what's next with Nalini Singh.
I was immediately drawn by the cover of Aggie Blum Thompson's latest novel, SUCH A LOVELY FAMILY. It is absolutely gorgeous and I was definit3.5 stars
I was immediately drawn by the cover of Aggie Blum Thompson's latest novel, SUCH A LOVELY FAMILY. It is absolutely gorgeous and I was definitely due for a family drama. This was my first venture with this author's work, but I do know that lots of readers love her books, so I was excited to dive in!
The story is heavily centered around the Calhoun family—a real estate magnate family that has become famous in their own way in the DMV area. The Calhoun family is nothing if not cutthroat and all about business. With three children, the family is destined to succeed at all costs. When new members join through marriage, each of these people quickly see how dangerous this family could be to protect their own.
Without going into too much detail, this murder mystery is a fun ride and so dang messy. The Calhoun family's unraveling during a murder at their annual cherry blossom party makes for such a fun popcorn thriller. I did guess the ending, which is why the rating isn't higher, but it doesn't take away from the fun vibes throughout. I highly recommend readers who enjoyed The Whispers (Ashley Audrain), Little Cruelties (Liz Nugent), or anything from Caz Frear, SUCH A LOVELY FAMILY is the perfect book for you....more
As you know, I'm not a major science-fiction reader, but I definitely wanted to read Sierra Greer's debut novel, ANNIE BOT has been getting so much buAs you know, I'm not a major science-fiction reader, but I definitely wanted to read Sierra Greer's debut novel, ANNIE BOT has been getting so much buzz, that I couldn't refuse to try it out for myself. ANNIE BOT is a book in which a world which has robot humans as companions, we are giving the incredible protagonist, Annie Bot. Annie was created to be the perfect girlfriend for her human owner, Doug. Doug loves that Annie's programming is similar to that of a real woman, including curiosity and emotional attachments, but that has left Annie with the flawed aspects of humans. Her AI is programmed to be a traditional wife (cooking for Doug and dressing how he likes), while also being set for Doug's sexual appetite.
As Annie and Doug's relationship grows, she learns organically about life and struggles to make sense of it all. This book is a manifesto of Annie's experience as a robot and companion and is extremely well characterized. It's safe to say that there's some triggers (sexual choice) so go into this book knowing that. This book is a combination of Westworld, My Dark Vanessa, and Docile so take those three aspects and you'll get ANNIE BOT in its entirety. At times cringy, but definitely honest. The ending didn't work for me, so that's why my rating isn't higher, but again, ANNIE BOT is a unique and particularly thought-provoking story. I listened to it on @libro.fm and I highly recommend the audiobook version....more
I can’t believe this is my FIRST venture into Amber Garza’s books, but if this is how she storylines a thriller, I’m on board! This popcorn thriller dI can’t believe this is my FIRST venture into Amber Garza’s books, but if this is how she storylines a thriller, I’m on board! This popcorn thriller dives into a fundamentalist Christian family’s struggle with faith and family dynamics and it gets turned on its head when the family’s daughter goes missing.
Adrienne was forcibly removed from her family home due to her issues with her father Shane’s religious beliefs. Shane is the town’s local pastor but follows his beliefs very seriously. Shane’s wife Tatum, however, wants to maintain a relationship with her daughter and secretly rendezvous with her behind her husband’s back. That is, until she goes missing and the only person who can help Tatum find her is someone proclaiming to be her fiancé. This estranged family’s search for their daughter has a lot to unravel here.
This is a popcorn thriller at its finest. You may see how it’ll end up, but nevertheless it was a lot of fun. I loved how the author weaves in her own experience with faith and storylined this family’s Christian fundamentalism into the dynamics of this family. I read this book in two sittings, and it’s the perfect poolside read, so pick it up by the pool or beach before summer is over....more
Carola Lovering is such a unique author for me because her books aren’t the most “thrillery” types of mysteries and lean more towards drama, but I absCarola Lovering is such a unique author for me because her books aren’t the most “thrillery” types of mysteries and lean more towards drama, but I absolutely love to read them. Her latest, coming out in 2024, BYE, BABY, is no different. The story is centered around two long-term friends, Cassie Barnwell and Billie West. Cassie and Billie have been best friends since childhood, but they’ve continually grown more distant as years pass. Cassie has married into a wealthy family and has recently given birth to her daughter Ella—leaning into a social media persona while her husband has become the sole breadwinner, while Billie is focused on her career and is in the midst of dating. Cassie’s new life can only be described as privileged and uptight, but Billie is destined to fix their relationship, no matter how hesitant or fake Cassie is in repairing the two. When Cassie’s daughter is taken at a party, Billie knows exactly what happened, but will she hide the truth in order to restore their friendship.
I thought I was going to hate this book. Nothing is more anti women than people like Cassie—I said what I said. I hate the idea that women must have children and get married in order to be successful. It literally drives me insane seeing this narrative. That being said, this story goes in deep about that narrative in a way I haven’t see a novel go. I hated almost everyone in this book but I loved this story and the chaos that ensued. BYE, BABY is a bingeworthy, exciting ride—Carola Lovering has masterfully told a great story yet again and I’ll tune into reading what she has for readers next....more
Bradeigh Godfrey's upcoming mystery novel, THE FOLLOWERS, will definitely be a juicy beach read for a lot of readers. If you like May Cobb or3.5 stars
Bradeigh Godfrey's upcoming mystery novel, THE FOLLOWERS, will definitely be a juicy beach read for a lot of readers. If you like May Cobb or Eliza Jane Brazier's books, THE FOLLOWERS is a solid read for you. The story focuses on mommy influencer Molly Sullivan and her struggles with her relationships due to her social media notoriety. After Molly posts a photo with her fiance Scott, the two become entangled in an argument. Frustrated, Molly removes the post and keep him and his daughter out of the spotlight. However, Liv Barrett notices Scott on Molly's social media and tries to get in contact with Molly. Liv believes that Scott was involved in her sister's murder and begins to investigate on her own. When Molly and Liv end up "accidentally" meeting up, they start uncovering the mystery behind Liv's sister's murder, but someone else also saw Scott's image and they're watching Molly and Liv closely.
Part romance, part domestic thriller, part psychological suspense, THE FOLLOWERS will be a fun story for a lot of you. I struggled with the plot for the first half of the story, I just wasn't invested. It's hard to say why, because the writing is great, but I just didn't care. That being said, I went against my usual DNF rules and kept going. There's some chilling moments with the dangers of social media, which makes me want to actually take a step back on posting my personal life as much, so thank you Bradeigh Godfrey for scaring the s* out of me. If you enjoy light mysteries with a bit of an emotional pull and romance, THE FOLLOWERS will be the read for you....more
Araminta Hall is a name that every mystery/thriller reader should recognize, specifically after her massive hit Our Kind of Cruelty. I was very exciteAraminta Hall is a name that every mystery/thriller reader should recognize, specifically after her massive hit Our Kind of Cruelty. I was very excited to get an advanced copy of her 2024 novel, ONE OF THE GOOD GUYS—the cover is intriguing and playful, and the synopsis immediately drew me in. Right from the get-go, you can feel where this story is going...
Newly separated from his wife, Cole leaves London for the countryside and decides to live a simpler life, having a fresh start to a new journey. He accepts a position as a wildlife ranger and lives in a seaside cottage, and he spends his morning swimming and enjoying nature. When he meets his neighbor Leonora, an artist renting a nearby cottage, he is instantly attracted to her. As the two forge a budding relationship, two women's rights activists begin touring their town to raise awareness about domestic abuse. When the two women go missing, the whole town, including Cole and Leonora, end up being thrown into a police investigation and media tailspin. As the investigation continues, Cole and Leonora's angst and tension begins to grow and the two realize that they may not necessarily have known everything about each other.
Immediately right off the bat, you'll feel a sense of erratic behavior in this book. I don't want to say more because it'll give it away. That being said, this book is bingeable and fun, and showcases different POVs and writing techniques (media outlets, articles, social media posts, etc.). Although I knew early on how this book would evolve, it didn't take away from my enjoyment of the journey with its characters. There are some truly sinister characters with some eye-opening moments for readers to enjoy. This book will not be for everyone, but if you've read the author's books previously and enjoy the genre, definitely give ONE OF THE GOOD GUYS a try!...more
FIRST AND FOREMOST, this book's POV is in the second-person ("you are walking up the stairs and see xyz," "you are eating a salad" type of narration),FIRST AND FOREMOST, this book's POV is in the second-person ("you are walking up the stairs and see xyz," "you are eating a salad" type of narration), which is a type of POV that I immediately loathe. It is hard for me to escape into a story when I'm not having the opportunity to be a "fly on the wall" during the story. That being said, THE QUIET TENANT is a unique story that I think all readers will appreciate in some capacity.
This book mainly dives into the world of Aidan Thomas and his capture of Rachel, who lives in Aidan's backyard. Rachel is trying to survive and plays into the role that Aidan wants her to play, but when Aidan's wife dies, they are forced to move. Rachel plays upon the emotions of her captor and his daughter, but when Emily, a local restaurant owner, develops a crush on Aidan, she becomes closer and closer to the Thomas family.
THE QUIET TENANT is a psychological study of the mind of a serial killer and their victims, but I never felt that this story was a thriller or mystery or suspense. It was very cut and dry, but at the same time very engrossing. The pull to uncover the story was weaker than expected, and the story evolves kind of how I thought it would be, but I was always excited to keep reading. I think readers will appreciate THE QUIET TENANT and readers of On the Savage Side will absolutely love this book....more