Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell

In "Then She Was Gone" by Lisa Jewell, a gripping mystery unfolds with twists and turns that keep readers hooked. The complex characters and Lisa Jewell's classic style of exploring multiple perspectives add depth to the narrative. While the book maintains a strong pace, the latter half slows down, and some character connections may be predictable. Despite occasional disconnect with characters and a less-than-shocking main mystery, the novel's dark themes and exploration of the human desire to shape a perfect world make it a compelling read, earning it a 7.5/10 rating.

Secrets to the Grave (Oak Knoll #2) by Tami Hoag

In "Secrets to the Grave" by Tami Hoag, the Oak Knoll series continues with Anne, Vince, and Tony facing a complex murder mystery. The book delves into the characters' relationships and trauma, weaving a dark and twisty narrative. Anne's kindness puts her in peril again, adding layers to the suspense. The gripping plot earns a 7.5/10 rating, with the reviewer expressing both enjoyment and some reservations. The mystery unfolds dynamically, keeping readers engaged, though certain character choices and outcomes provoke mixed feelings. Overall, "Secrets to the Grave" offers a hard-hitting murder mystery with intense twists.

Kill Show by Daniel Sweren-Becker

Hello Beautiful People! Welcome back to another review! For this review I get into the true crime style - but don’t be fooled like me at first it's a fiction – book that follows the interview of those involved in the disappearance of a teenage girl. Kill Show by Daniel Sweren-Becker is a twisty book… Continue reading Kill Show by Daniel Sweren-Becker

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

In Cormac McCarthy's haunting post-apocalyptic masterpiece, "The Road," the nameless father and son traverse a desolate world stripped of hope. McCarthy's deliberate lack of character specificity serves as a poignant symbol of identity's futility in the face of a grim reality. Amidst the bleakness, a profound theme of familial love emerges, showcasing the struggle for survival against a backdrop of despair. The narrative, though slow-paced, poetically paints a world where darkness is kept at bay, reflecting on the human condition's resilience. This thought-provoking exploration challenges readers to consider their own responses to a world devoid of certainty, echoing the fragility of hope and the enduring power of connections in the bleakest circumstances. McCarthy's masterful storytelling raises profound questions about the human spirit in the face of an uncertain future.

2023’s Reads

Hello Beautiful People!! I thought ending this year with a list of all the books I’ve read would be fun. Starting at number one will be my favourite book I’ve read this year, and the list will follow going from my favourites to my least favourite. 2023 was a good year for reading and I… Continue reading 2023’s Reads

The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea

For this review we dive into another book that has been on my to be read list for a very long time called The Girl Who Was Taken by Charlie Donlea. A super interesting book that dives into many different aspects of the mystery like forensic work, family trauma, and survival guilt.

The Leftover Woman by Jean Kwok

"The Leftover Woman" by Jean Kwok offers a riveting narrative about two seemingly disparate women, Jasmine, a Chinese immigrant fleeing from an abusive past, and Rebecca, a high-profile New York native grappling with societal pressures. Despite its somewhat slow start, the novel impressively intertwines their stories, revealing shared struggles amidst their differences.

None of This Is True by Lisa Jewell

"None of This is True" by Lisa Jewell offers a gripping and unique thriller experience, expertly balancing predictability with unexpected twists. The narrative's alternating perspectives, coupled with interview and podcast clips, create a captivating true crime documentary feel. Despite some predictable moments, the novel impresses with a well-crafted plot, engaging characters, and a clever twist ending. Lisa's storytelling prowess shines, earning this thriller a solid 9/10 rating. The exploration of internet and social media deception adds depth, making it a standout in the genre. Highly recommended for those seeking a brain-teasing, gripping read.

The Shadows by Alex North

In "The Shadows" by Alex North, Paul Adams reflects on a dark past of lucid dreaming with childhood friends, Charlie Crabtree and James. As a murder investigation unfolds, Paul's uneasy return to his hometown reveals unsettling connections. The book's suspense wanes in the second half, earning it a 7.5/10 rating. The ending, while solving the mystery, leaves lingering questions about Charlie's motivations and Paul's culpability.

Final Girls by Riley Sager

The Final Girls by Riley Sager is exactly what you think it is and follows the classic horror theme of the Final Girl story. However, it has a twist in which it follows three separate final girls years after their ordeals and how they all connect to each other.