The Sun Does Shine by Anthony Ray Hinton

Anthony Ray Hinton's memoir, The Sun Does Shine, recounts his harrowing experience of spending nearly thirty years on death row for murders he did not commit. Through his emotional narrative, Hinton highlights systemic racial injustice and the importance of advocacy, ultimately demonstrating resilience and hope in his journey toward reclaiming his life after wrongful conviction.

The It Girl by Ruth Ware

University courtyard with gothic architecture lit up at dusk and two graduates walking

For this review, I get into The It Girl by Ruth Ware, an author whom I have enjoyed very much in the past. When a group of friends are thrown back into their traumatic past in university, even though they are all grown up now. With the mystery of the past still looming over their heads, the question of whether they can go back to their lives once the truth comes out threatens to ruin the present.

Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson

Investigation board showing suspects, victims, timeline, leads, and evidence connections for a crime case

A personal first for author Holly Jackson, we dive into one of her newer releases, Not Quite Dead Yet. A super interesting book navigating through family dynamics, grief, and the struggles of life and growing up, all tied up with a riveting mystery at the center.

Bag of Bones by Stephen King

Wooden cabin with lit windows beside calm lake at twilight

For this review, I get into a beloved Stephen King book, Bag of Bones. A different pace and style than his usual books, with still plenty of high stakes and dynamic moments, Bag of Bones hits differently in a lot of interesting ways. I enjoyed getting to see his usual style be presented in this way.

Everything She Ever Wanted by Ann Rule

Old wooden barn at night with a horse inside glowing eyes and light from lantern

For this review, I get into an Ann Rule true crime book that focuses on the life and crimes of Patricia Taylor, who reigned terror on those around her in the 1970’s. While this wasn’t my favourite Ann Rule book I’ve read so far, it was still an interesting case and well written overall.

Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman

Shadowy silhouette of a person in a dimly lit hallway near an open bedroom door

The review highlights disappointment with Josh Malerman's Incidents Around the House, following young Bela, haunted by a paranormal being called Other Mommy. While the concept is intriguing, the childlike narration frustrated the reviewer, leading to a tedious and unengaging read. The book received a 4/10 rating, with a recommendation to explore Malerman's other works.

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.