I’ve collected short reviews of the last twelve audiobooks I listened to through Netgalley and decided it’s time to share them. I hope you enjoy and grab a copy of those that pique your attention.
“Fatal First Edition” by Jenn McKinlay is the latest addition to the Library Lover’s Mystery series. Set against the backdrop of a popular library conference in Chicago, this book takes readers on a journey of suspense, intrigue, and murder.
The story follows Briar Creek Library director Lindsey Norris and her husband, Sully, as they find themselves embroiled in a dangerous mystery involving a rare and valuable first edition book.
McKinlay weaves together a complex plot with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations relating to minor characters. The villains were a little predictable and I identified them fairly early in the story. As a result, I felt frustrated by the pace of the second half of the book.
While “Fatal First Edition” is the fourteenth book in the Library Lover’s Mystery series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Overall, “Fatal First Edition” is an enjoyable read. However, I don’t feel compelled to delve into the rest of the series. I rate the book three out of five stars.
“Stolen Pieces” by S.K. Golden is a fun crime caper that delivers action, suspense, and a healthy dose of humour. Billed as “Ocean’s 8” meets Janet Evanovich, this fast-paced novel introduces readers to Bee Cardello, a former con artist determined to leave her criminal past behind.
Golden masterfully crafts a story filled with twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the end. The dynamic relationship between the characters adds depth and emotion to the narrative, and the chemistry between Bee and her old flame Adam Gage adds a touch of romance to the mix.
While “Stolen Pieces” offers plenty of excitement and entertainment, some elements of the story may stretch the bounds of realism. However, this only adds to the book’s charm and makes it a perfect escape for readers looking for a thrilling ride.
Overall, “Stolen Pieces” is a fun and engaging read that offers a welcome respite from reality. Despite its occasional lapses into the improbable, the novel delivers on its promise of suspense and excitement. I rate the book three out of five stars and recommend it to anyone in need of a thrilling adventure with a side of humour and heart.
“Crash Course” by Julie Whipple is a gripping and eye-opening exploration of the tragic events surrounding an ill-fated commercial flight. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Whipple takes readers on a harrowing journey through the events leading up to the crash and its aftermath.
Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, she delves deep into the factors that contributed to the disaster, from mechanical failures to human error. The book offers a comprehensive look at the complexities of air travel and the challenges faced by pilots, crew members, and passengers.
What sets “Crash Course” apart is its ability to recount the events of the crash and shed light on the broader implications for air travel safety.
While “Crash Course” offers a sobering look at the realities of air travel, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and measures. By sharing the stories of those affected by the crash, Whipple brings a human element to the narrative, making it informative and emotionally resonant.
Overall, “Crash Course” is an insightful and thought-provoking read that offers valuable lessons for aviation professionals and everyday travellers. I rate the book three out of five stars and highly recommend it to anyone interested in aviation history and safety.
“Bad Men” by Julie Mae Cohen is a wickedly entertaining and refreshingly unique thriller that captivates from start to finish. With its twisty plot, dark humour, and feminist themes, it offers a fresh and thrilling take on the genre. At the center of the story is Saffy Huntley-Oliver, a glamorous socialite who also happens to be a proficient serial killer.
Cohen’s storytelling is clever and addictive, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn. Saffy is particularly compelling, offering a complex and multifaceted portrayal of a woman who defies traditional expectations and societal norms. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found myself eagerly turning the pages to uncover Saffy’s next move. I rate the book three out of five stars and would love to delve deeper into Saffy’s world.
“The Clock Struck Murder” by Betty Webb is a delightful romp through 1920s Paris, filled with intrigue, mystery, and a dash of artistic flair. Set against the backdrop of the Lost Generation, this novel transports readers to a vibrant era of creativity and cultural upheaval.
Protagonist Zoe Barlow, an expat artist living among the bohemian crowd of Montparnasse, finds herself embroiled in a murder investigation after stumbling upon a lost Chagall masterpiece at a flea market. What starts as a quest for a replacement clock quickly escalates into a mystery as Zoe delves deeper into the circumstances surrounding the painting and the murder of its previous owner, Laurette.
Webb’s storytelling weaves together a plot filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations. Her vivid descriptions bring 1920s Paris to life, immersing readers in the bustling streets and colorful characters of the era.
While “The Clock Struck Murder” is the second book in the Lost in Paris series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Overall, I found it an okay read offering a glimpse into 1920s Paris. I don’t feel compelled to read the previous book in the series, and rate it three out of five stars.
“Ladies’ Day” by Lisa Williams Kline is a poignant and heartwarming tale of family, forgiveness, and second chances. Set against the backdrop of the world of golf, this novel explores the intertwined lives of Beth Sawyer and her estranged daughter, Julie, as they navigate the complexities of their past and present. Kline’s storytelling is heartfelt and compelling, drawing readers into the lives of Beth and Sky as they journey towards reconciliation and redemption. The novel’s exploration of themes such as love, loss, and the power of forgiveness resonates long after the final page is turned. I rate the book three out of five stars.
“Wicked Games” by J. H. Markert is a heart-pounding thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from. Markert masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue, drawing you into a world where nothing is as it seems. As the night falls and the sinister game begins, you’ll find yourself holding your breath as the protagonist faces off against masked intruders who know her darkest secrets. If you’re looking for a gripping thriller that will keep you guessing, this is it. I rated it three out of five stars.
“The Widening Stain” by W. Bolingbroke Johnson is an interesting romp through the hallowed halls of academia, filled with humour, intrigue, and plenty of bibliographic charm. Set in a library at an institution reminiscent of Cornell University, this Golden Age mystery offers a satirical glimpse into academic life while delivering a captivating whodunit.
What sets this book apart is its blend of humour and literary charm. Johnson infuses the narrative with playful limericks and witty banter, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
However, I had greater expectations for the book. I rate the book three out of five stars and recommend it to anyone in search of a light-hearted and amusing mystery read.
“This Skin Was Once Mine and Other Disturbances” by Eric LaRocca is a chilling collection of horror tales from the Bram Stoker Award®-nominated and Splatterpunk Award-winning author.
In ‘This Skin Was Once Mine,’ LaRocca explores the depths of grief and family secrets. This was one of the stronger stories, and I liked it.
‘Seedling’ takes a more visceral turn, delving into themes of loss and obsession, but was weaker than the first story.
‘Prickle’ is an exploration of the darkness that lurks within us all. I didn’t care for this story at all. I found it silly and jarring in a collection of horror.
‘All the Parts of You That Won’t Easily Burn’ offers a twisted tale of obsession and self-destruction. This was my favourite story from the collection.
On balance, the collection book-ends forgettable stories with decent horror. As a result, I rated it three out of five stars.
“Long Time Gone” by Charlie Donlea is an absolutely riveting novel that hooks you from the first page and refuses to let go. The story centers on Dr. Sloan Hastings, a brilliant forensic scientist whose seemingly innocuous DNA test submission unravels a chilling mystery dating back nearly three decades. What begins as a research assignment swiftly transforms into a perilous journey of self-discovery and danger. Donlea masterfully crafts an engrossing and propulsive narrative. The pacing is impeccable, blending Sloan’s forensic expertise with a deeply personal quest for identity and truth. The characters are richly developed, particularly Sloan, whose determination and vulnerability make her a compelling protagonist. “Long Time Gone” is not just a mystery; it’s a profound exploration of identity, family, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. Charlie Donlea’s storytelling prowess shines through in this expertly woven thriller, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. This is one of the few books this year that I rated four out of five stars. Highly recommended!
“Real Life and Other Fictions” by Susan Coll is a captivating novel that delves deep into the complexities of life, loss, and resilience. The protagonist, Cassie, is a woman who has faced more than her fair share of challenges, yet she refuses to let adversity define her. Coll’s masterful storytelling draws readers into Cassie’s world, immersing them in her quest for answers and self-discovery. It is a wonderfully written novel that offers both entertainment and insight. I rate the book three out of five stars.
“Anna Bright Is Hiding Something” by Susie Orman Schnall is a gripping, fast-paced novel that plunges readers into the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley startups and New York City’s media landscape. With its incisive exploration of ambition, deception, and the quest for success, this book is a timely reflection on the challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by women in the business world. Susie Orman Schnall masterfully portrays the intense pressure and moral compromises in the world of high finance and tech startups. The characters are vividly drawn. The book’s backdrop, echoing real-life scandals like that of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos, provides a thought-provoking commentary on the cult of personality surrounding female entrepreneurs. While there are notable differences between Anna Bright and Holmes, the parallels are unmistakable, prompting readers to question the impact of such narratives on public perception of women in business.
While I wonder if it’s too soon for a story reminiscent of recent real-life events, Schnall’s fictional account serves as a cautionary tale about integrity and the perils of unchecked ambition. I reluctantly gave this three out of five stars, the reluctance stemming from how fresh Theranos is in my mind and how I felt like the concept didn’t feel original. But, what is original these days, right? However, the book is well-written and I’ll be checking out more novels by Susie Orman Schnall.
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