The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James

The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James is a gripping mystery with elements of fantasy and horror. The story follows Carly investigating her aunt's disappearance at the eerie motel. Characters like Viv and Nick add depth, and the book skillfully weaves past and present perspectives. The satisfying conclusion ties up all loose ends. Overall, a highly recommended, unique mystery.

No Country For Old Men by Cormac McCarthy

No Country For Old Men by Cormac McCarthy follows the consequences of a man's decision to take drug money, affecting his life and others'. The book features a slow-paced plot with fast-paced events, portraying characters from a small town confronting a violent drug world. It delves into themes of greed, morality, and the impact of money on people's actions.

These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant

In this review we look into These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant, set in the Appalachian woods. The story revolves around a father, Cooper, and his daughter, Finch, living off the grid with secrets unraveling. The gripping tale of their unique relationship and a surprising twist make this a must-read thriller with captivating character development. Rating: 8.5/10.

Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann

"Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann is a gripping true crime book set in 1920's Oklahoma, unraveling the shocking history behind the Osage Nation's wealth and the brutal murders that followed. The book sheds light on the racism toward Indigenous communities, offering a poignant, essential read. The compelling narrative is enhanced by impactful photographs.

Hot Blooded by Lisa Jackson (New Orleans #1)

"Hot Blooded" by Lisa Jackson is a mysterious and thrilling novel with complex characters. The story revolves around psychologist Samantha, detective Rick, and a series of chilling events in New Orleans. Despite some slow parts, the book delivers a compelling mystery with unexpected twists. The intricate connections between characters and the gripping finale make it a must-read.

Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica

Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica is a gripping and dark thriller that defies expectations. The narrative unfolds around the mysterious disappearances of Meredith and Delilah Dickey, exploring the aftermath for their family and neighbors. Filled with unexpected twists, the book delves into themes of kidnapping, murder, and medical malpractice. While the story starts strong, the pacing falters toward the end, with some characters feeling less connected. Kubica skillfully weaves past and present perspectives, adding complexity to the suspense. Despite a slightly dragged-out conclusion, Local Woman Missing earns an 8/10 rating for its riveting mystery and unexpected plot turns.

The Face of Deception by Iris Johansen (Eve Duncan Series #1)

The Face of Deception by Iris Johansen is a captivating start to the Eve Duncan Series. While the plot and characters are engaging, the abundance of characters and early exposure of the mystery may pose challenges for some readers. However, the book's action-packed second half and the dynamic between Eve and John Logan make for an overall enjoyable read.

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.

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