True Blue by David Baldacci

True Blue by David Baldacci centers on sisters Mace and Beth Perry, who navigate their complex relationship while dealing with Mace's wrongful imprisonment. Mace seeks redemption as she investigates a murder, supported by Roy Kingman, a lawyer. The review highlights character flaws and a convoluted plot, ultimately rating the book 6/10.

Local Gone Missing by Fiona Barton

Local Gone Missing by Fiona Barton follows Elise King, a detective on medical leave, who observes her small town grappling with tension from gentrification and a missing local, Charlie Perry. Despite strong character development, the story feels muddled and fails to tie together key plot points, resulting in an unsatisfying mystery experience.

Night Sins by Tami Hoag (Deer Lake #1)

Tami Hoag's "Night Sins" begins the Deer Lake series, focusing on the unsettling kidnapping of young Josh after hockey practice, shaking the small town. Central characters include his parents, Hannah and Paul, and local sheriff Mitch Holt alongside Agent Megan O'Malley. The book effectively builds tension and character depth, setting the stage for the sequel.

Kill For Me, Kill For You by Steve Cavanagh

Kill For Me, Kill For You by Steve Cavanagh is a gripping thriller about Amanda and Wendy, two grieving mothers seeking justice for their murdered daughters. Their intertwined lives lead to a murder swap plan, but complications arise when secrets are revealed. The plot is engaging yet can be complex, with an unexpected twist at the end.

The Frozen Dead by Bernard Minier (Commandant Martin Servaz #1)

The Frozen Dead by Bernard Minier is a chilling mystery set in a French Pyrenees town, centering on Commandant Martin Servaz tackling a peculiar murder case involving a horse, which escalates into human deaths. The reviewer found the plot convoluted and characters unengaging, ultimately rating it 5/10, with no intention to read further in the series.

Grave Secrets by Kathy Reichs (Temperance Brennan #5)

In "Grave Secrets," the fifth book in Kathy Reichs' Temperance Brennan series, Temperance investigates a series of missing girls in Guatemala, facing cultural challenges. Despite intriguing plot elements, the reviewer finds the pacing slow and the mystery less gripping compared to previous entries, ultimately rating it a 6/10.

The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule

In this review of Ann Rule's "The Stranger Beside Me," the author reflects on her complex feelings toward Ted Bundy, detailing the extensive damage he caused. While revealing insights into Bundy's allure, the reviewer emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the numerous victims. Ultimately, the book is recommended for its unique, human perspective on a notorious figure.

Run Away by Harlan Coben

In Harlan Coben's "Run Away," a family navigates the devastating effects of addiction as Simon searches for his missing daughter Paige, entangled in a murder mystery involving her boyfriend Aaron. The narrative explores complex family dynamics, societal issues, and unexpected twists, ultimately highlighting the struggle for control amid chaos and trauma.

The Girl in the Basement by Eoin Dempsey

The Girl in the Basement by Eoin Dempsey is a fast-paced thriller that intertwines the past and present of Ellie, who recounts her kidnapping experience and its aftermath 20 years later. The review highlights the book's intriguing characters and themes but criticizes its pacing and structure, ultimately rating it a 6/10.