Long Time Gone by Charlie Donlea

"Long Time Gone" by Charlie Donlea explores themes of family history and generational secrets through the journey of Sloan Hastings, who discovers she was kidnapped as a child. The mystery unfolds with compelling characters and ties to a historical disappearance, maintaining reader engagement despite some predictable elements and a mixed ending. Rated 7.5/10.

Don’t Tell Me How to Die by Marshall Karp

Antique hourglass with cracked glass and sand spilling onto a wooden surface

Marshall Karp's "Don't Tell Me How to Die" surprises with its emotional depth and intricate plot. The story follows Maggie Dunn, a mayor coping with a genetic illness, as she attempts to secure her family's future by finding her husband a new wife before her death. Full of twists, it explores love, grief, and control.

Just the Nicest Couple by Mary Kubica

Two gold rings rest on a weathered wooden surface with dried flowers and moss.

Just the Nicest Couple follows two couples, Nina and Jake, and their friends Lily and Christian. When Jake Hayes suddenly goes missing, his wife Nina is left searching for answers. At the same time, Lily Scott is dealing with secrets of her own, ones that may be more connected to Jake’s disappearance than anyone initially realizes. As the story unfolds, shifting perspectives reveal hidden truths, complicated relationships, and a web of lies that slowly comes to the surface.

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Rusty, cylindrical spacecraft with damaged solar panels drifting near a bright orange star in space.

In this review of Andy Weir's "Project Hail Mary," the reviewer, initially skeptical of science fiction, found the story engaging and accessible. They praised protagonist Ryland Grace for his relatability and the unexpected relationships that develop. The book's emotional depth and immersive space setting contributed to a surprising and enjoyable reading experience, earning a 9/10 rating.

Deal Breaker by Harlan Coben (Myron Bolitar #1)

In this review of "Deal Breaker," the first book in Harlan Coben's Myron Bolitar series, the reviewer shares their unexpected enjoyment of the story and its characters, particularly the witty and loyal Myron. The blend of sports and mystery captivates, and the humor enhances the suspense, making it a compelling read.

The Crash by Freida McFadden

The Crash follows Teagan, who is close to having her baby, but is not having her life together. I an attempt to outrun her past, she gets on the road, although the road has other plans for her. Crashing in a heavy snowstorm, Teagan has gotten herself into quite a situation. That’s until the seemingly sweet Hank comes to save her. Taking her to his home to keep her warm, safe and fed, Teagan meets Polly, his wife, and then her life really takes an unexpected turn. What seems to be a kind, helpful couple soon turns into Teagan’s worst nightmares. With a desire to keep Teagan captive to have her baby for themselves, Teagan has to figure out how to save herself and her baby, while having no clue where she is, in the dead of winter.

The Mad Wife by Meagan Church

The Mad Wife by Meagan Church explores the struggles of a 1950s housewife, Lulu Mayfield, navigating mental health within societal expectations. As Lulu faces personal crises, her neighbor's mysterious presence amplifies her insecurities. The novel delves into the complexities of womanhood, identity, and the psychological toll of conformity, ultimately offering a reflective commentary on the era.

The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden

Sydney Shaw is single, unlucky in love, and exhausted by the dating scene. When she meets Tom, charming, attentive, successful, and seemingly perfect, it feels like she’s finally caught a break. Their relationship moves quickly, but not so fast that it feels unrealistic. In fact, that’s part of what makes this book work: everything feelsplausible. But then women in the city start disappearing. And suddenly, the question isn’t whether Sydney has found the right guy, it’s whether she’s made a catastrophic mistake.

Keep It in the Family by John Marrs

There are thrillers that make you look over your shoulder, and then there’s what John Marrs does in Keep It in the Family, where every horror, every secret, and every warped loyalty makes you question humanity itself. This isn’t just a domestic mystery about a creepy house, it’s a tangled, unhinged psychological exploration of family, identity, trauma, and the lengths people go to protect, or destroy, those they love. From the first unnerving scrawl scratched into a floorboard to the final bone-chilling twist, Keep It in the Family is Marrs at his darkest, most disturbing, and most emotionally jarring.

The Ex by Freida McFadden

In "The Ex," Freida McFadden explores themes of jealousy and insecurity within relationships. Despite a gripping narrative and emotional tension, the plot can become convoluted, making it hard to follow. The climax reveals deeper issues with character motivations, leaving readers perplexed. Overall, it’s an intriguing but messy psychological thriller.