BLOG TOUR: The Good Ones Are Taken by Taj McCoy

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Good Ones Are Taken by Taj McCoy! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for an honest review. Thanks so much to MIRA and Taj McCoy for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: The Good Ones Are Taken

Author: Taj McCoy

Published by: MIRA

Released: April 23, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: When Maggie's best friend admits he's in love with her, she'll have to decide whether it's worth giving up something good for something that could be amazing in this laugh-out-loud friends-to-lovers rom-com.

After a bad breakup, Maggie wants to find her Prince Charming, but all she’s finding are frogs. When her best friends, Savvy and Joan, apply pressure and demand she find a date worthy of attending their respective weddings, she agrees to take her own advice and try online dating. Since she's the maid of honor for both weddings, her bridal party duties are massive, but both brides insist that Maggie prioritize finding a date. After an onslaught of maybes, noes, and hell noes, she’s close to giving up, when she meets a handsome doctor at the gym who just might be the one.

Meanwhile, her college bestie, Garrett, throws salt in everyone’s game. At every turn, he points out the red flags and tells Maggie to keep looking. Things come to a head when Maggie demands that Garrett be happy for her, and he finally admits that he can’t. Not when he’s not with her. When he blurts out his feelings, Maggie’s world is turned upside down. Now she must choose between the perfect guy and a friendship that is the foundation for everything she’s ever wanted. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

My Thoughts: This was cute and I really enjoyed it. I'm always game for a romance. Maggie had some hard decisions to make in this one. If you are a fan of the love triangle trope and friends to lovers, then this one is definitely for you!

Maggie has some great friends, they might have been one of the best parts of the story, but they definitely put some pressure on her to find a date. I really liked Maggie's journey in this. I won't say that I always agreed with everything she did, but I was always interested in what was going to happen for her next. 

I can see a lot of people enjoying this one. If you're craving a cute romance, I'd say read it.

 

Oakland-born law grad Taj McCoy is committed to championing stories that include Black and multiracial women of color, plus-size protagonists, Black love, Black joy, and strong senses of sisterhood and familial bonds. Taj started writing as a small child, enjoying her first publications in elementary school. When she's not writing, Taj may be on Twitter boosting other marginalized writers, practicing yoga, sharing recipes, or cooking private supper club meals for close friends.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Good Ones Are Taken by Taj McCoy! Thank you to MIRA and Taj McCoy for letting me be a part of the tour. If you're looking for something cute to read, you should definitely add this one to your list!

BLOG TOUR: The Book of Thorns by Hester Fox

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Book of Thorns by Hester Fox! I received a free electronic copy for review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Graydon House and Hester Fox for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: The Book of Thorns

Author: Hester Fox

Published by: Graydon House

Released: April 2, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: In the midst of the Napoleonic Wars and the rise of the floriography craze in Europe, two sisters separated at birth are bound together by a secret language of flowers passed down to them by the mother they never knew. When Cornelia leaves her cruel uncle’s home to join Napoleon’s army as a traveling naturalist, her ability to heal any wound and bring soldiers back from the brink of death earns her praise from higher-ups—and exposes her to those who would exploit her powers for themselves.

Meanwhile, Lijsbeth lives in indentured servitude, her only respite her time spent flower arranging. When she meets a young English soldier and falls in love, Lisjbeth must decide whether to flee the clashing of two great armies at Waterloo or risk everything by staying. As the English and French armies collide in Waterloo, the sisters finally cross paths on opposite sides of the war.

With the sisters reunited on the battlefield, they must work together to solve the mystery of their mother’s death and their father’s disappearance, all while surviving the war raging around them. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: The very first thing that drew me to this book was the pretty cover. It got me. The synopsis also sounded interesting, so I added it to my reading list.

Books involving war can be hit or miss for me. I'd not read much about the Napoleonic Wars though, so that was interesting.

I enjoyed the story of the two sisters who were separated at birth. I liked seeing both of their lives apart and eventually together.

I also enjoyed the way that flowers played such a big part in their stories.

I enjoyed reading this story and I could see a lot of other people liking it too.

Hester Fox is a full-time writer and mother, with a background in museum work and historical archaeology. She lives in New England with her husband and their two children.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Book of Thorns by Hester Fox! Thank you to Graydon House and Hester Fox for letting me be a part of the tour. If this one sounds interesting to you, you should definitely give it a read.

BLOG TOUR: The Happiness Blueprint by Ally Zetterberg

I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Happiness Blueprint by Ally Zetterberg! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to MIRA and Ally Zetterberg for letting me be a part of this tour!

 

 

Title: The Happiness Blueprint

Author: Ally Zetterberg

Published by: MIRA

Released: April 2, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: Klara and Alex are having trouble connecting, but at least their calendars are in sync.

Klara—who’s always thought of herself as a little different, a sneaker in a world full of kitten heels and polished boots—is feeling a disconnect these days. She has type 1 diabetes, currently works in a dead-end job, and is in desperate need of a change. When her dad falls ill, Klara begrudgingly agrees to help run his small construction company while he recovers, even though it means moving back home and pushing the boundaries of her comfort zone to the extreme.

Alex has been a shell of himself since his brother died in an accident. He’s unemployed, has bills piling up, and is distant from friends and family. His therapist is encouraging him to keep things manageable by setting up a calendar, checking off tasks each day, and looking for work to help get him back on his feet. When an ad pops up for a carpenter position at a small construction company, he jumps at the chance to take a step forward.

Klara's and Alex’s stories unfold through a series of miscommunications in this clever and witty novel from debut author Ally Zetterberg that’s about finding acceptance and even love in unexpected places. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: This was cute and I enjoyed it. It deals with some heavy topics, but it makes the characters feel more real for it.

Klara has Type 1 diabetes and some other personality quirks, which can make her feel very different. I enjoyed reading about a character who can struggle with fitting in. I think it's important to celebrate what makes you unique in this world and that it's never something to feel bad about.

Alex is dealing with a lot of grief, which also felt like very important to showcase in a book.

I liked how Klara and Alex helped each other, they were exactly what the other needed.

I also really enjoyed that this story was set in Sweden. The only real books I'd read set in Sweden before had all been books about mystery and murder, so it was nice reading a book about two people coming together.

This is a slower read, but it's definitely worth it.

I really enjoyed this one, and I think a lot of other people would enjoy it too.

 

Ally Zetterberg is a British-Swedish writer. She spent ten years working internationally as a fashion model before turning to writing. Being neurodivergent herself and the mother of a child with Type 1 Diabetes, she is passionate about creating relatable characters and representing those living with medical conditions in her work. She speaks four languages and does her best not to muddle them up.

 

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Happiness Blueprint by Ally Zetterberg! Thank you to MIRA and Ally Zetterberg for letting me be a part of the tour. This is a cute one that should definitely be added to your TBR!

BLOG TOUR: Maya's Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Maya's Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to MIRA and Alina Khawaja for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Maya's Laws of Love

Author: Alina Khawaja

Published by: MIRA

Released: March 26, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: A bride-to-be convinced she’s cursed in romance finds her luck changing—at exactly the wrong time.

Maya Mirza is so convinced she’s unlucky in love that she’s come up with a list of laws to explain it. Most importantly…

But that’s about to change. Maya’s headed to Pakistan for an arranged marriage with a handsome, successful doctor who ticks all the right boxes. First comes marriage, then comes love—she’s sure of it. Except…

From the start, Maya's journey is riddled with disaster, and the cynical lawyer seated next to her on the plane isn’t helping. When a storm leaves them stranded in Switzerland, she and Sarfaraz become unlikely travel companions through bus breakdowns and missed connections.

And before long, Maya’s wondering whether she’s just experienced the ultimate in misfortune—finally meeting the right man a few days before she marries someone else. And Maya might just be the worst person to keep a secret.

But maybe, if she’s willing to bend some laws, this detour could take her somewhere totally—and wonderfully—unexpected. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: This was cute and I had a lot of fun reading it! This had a lot of tropes that I enjoy reading. I really just liked how Maya and Sarfaraz get stuck together through bad traveling luck.

The idea of an arranged marriage always peaks my interest, even if that's not the biggest part of the story.

I just love a meet cute, and I felt like this gave that to me.

I enjoyed it and I could see a lot of other people liking it too.

Alina Khawaja is a Canadian-Pakistani author. She is a graduate from the University of Toronto with a BA in English, History, and Creative Writing, and from Toronto Metropolitan University with an MA in the Literatures of Modernity. Alina lives in Ontario, Canada. When she's not writing, she's either reading or trying to keep up with her endless list of K-dramas.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Maya's Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja! Thank you to MIRA and Alina Khawaja for letting me be a part of the tour. If you're looking for something cute to read, you should definitely pick up this one!

BLOG TOUR: Good Half Gone by Tarryn Fisher

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Good Half Gone by Tarryn Fisher! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Graydon House and Tarryn Fisher for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Good Half Gone

Author: Tarryn Fisher

Published by: Graydon House

Released: March 19, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: Iris Walsh saw her twin sister, Piper, get kidnapped—so why does no one believe her?

Iris narrowly escaped her pretty, popular twin sister’s fate as a teen: kidnapped, trafficked and long gone before the cops agreed to investigate. With no evidence to go on but a few scattered memories, the case quickly goes cold.

Now an adult, Iris wants one thing—proof. And if the police still won’t help, she’ll just have to find it her own way; by interning at the isolated Shoal Island Hospital for the criminally insane, where secrets lurk in the shadows and are kept under lock and key. But Iris soon realizes that something even more sinister is simmering beneath the surface of the Shoal, and that the patients aren’t the only ones being observed… (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: Twins and a hospital for the criminally insane, tell me more! The synopsis for this one really caught my attention. I love adding some thrills to my currently reading pile, and Good Half Gone did that for me. I had fun with this one. It kept me turning pages and wondering what was going to happen next.

This is a great book to read by the pool. It's very fast and kept me on the edge of my seat.

I had a lot of fun with the setting. It was definitely unsettling.

I can see a lot of people enjoying this one. 

 Tarryn Fisher is the #1 New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of fifteen novels. She is best known for her bestselling novels Never Never, The Wives and The Wrong Family. Born in South Africa, Tarryn now calls Seattle, Washington home, where she resides with her husband and children. She writes primarily in the romance, thriller, and new adult genres and specializes in writing villains.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Good Half Gone by Tarryn Fisher! Thank you to Graydon House and Tarryn Fisher for letting me be a part of the tour. This will add some thrills to your TBR pile!

BLOG TOUR: The Day Tripper by James Goodhand

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for The Day Tripper by James Goodhand! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to MIRA and James Goodhand for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: The Day Tripper

Author: James Goodhand

Published by: MIRA

Released: March 19, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: The right guy, the right place, the wrong time.

It’s 1995, and Alex Dean has a spot at Cambridge University next year, the love of an amazing woman named Holly and all the time in the world ahead of him. That is until a brutal encounter with a ghost from his past sees him beaten, battered and almost drowning in the Thames.

He wakes the next day to find he’s in a messy, derelict room he’s never seen before, in grimy clothes he doesn’t recognize, with no idea of how he got there. A glimpse in the mirror tells him he’s older—much older—and has been living a hard life, his features ravaged by time and poor decisions. He snatches a newspaper and finds it’s 2010—fifteen years since the fight.

After finally drifting off to sleep, Alex wakes the following morning to find it’s now 2019, another nine years later. But the next day, it’s 1999. Never knowing which day is coming, he begins to piece together what happens in his life after that fateful night by the river.

But what exactly is going on? Why does his life look nothing like he thought it would? What about Cambridge, and Holly? In this page-turning adventure, Alex must navigate his way through the years to learn that small actions have untold impact. And that might be all he needs to save the people he loves and, equally importantly, himself. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I really enjoy books that play around with time, so when I read the synopsis for The Day Tripper, I was sold! 

This book has a lot to keep track of. It jumps around in time, from chapter to chapter, which can be confusing if you're not giving your full attention to the story. I managed to keep up pretty well. I was always interested in seeing what was going to happen next and why it was happening.

I had a good time following Alex's strange life. I enjoyed the time hopping and trying to find out what was going on. I can see a lot of other people enjoying this one too.

 

 James Goodhand has written two YA novels. His YA debut, Last Lesson, was called "a powerfully charged study in empathy," by the Financial Times. This is his adult debut. He lives in Englad with his wife and young son.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for The Day Tripper by James Goodhand! Thank you to MIRA and James Goodhand for letting me be a part of the tour. This one deserves a read!

BLOG TOUR: A Grave Robbery by Deanna Raybourn

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for A Grave Robbery by Deanna Raybourn! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for an honest review. Thanks so much to Berkley and Deanna Raybourn for letting me be a part of this tour!

Title: A Grave Robbery (Veronica Speedwell #9)

Author: Deanna Raybourn

Published by: Berkley

Released: March 12, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: Veronica and Stoker discover that not all fairy tales have happy endings, and some end in murder, in this latest historical mystery from New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award–nominated author Deanna Raybourn.

Lord Rosemorran has purchased a wax figure of a beautiful reclining woman and asks Stoker to incorporate a clockwork mechanism to give the Rosemorran Collection its own Sleeping Beauty in the style of Madame Tussaud’s. But when Stoker goes to cut the mannequin open to insert the mechanism, he makes a gruesome discovery: this is no wax figure. The mannequin is the beautifully preserved body of a young woman who was once very much alive. But who would do such a dreadful thing, and why?

Sleuthing out the answer to this question sets Veronica and Stoker on their wildest adventure yet. From the underground laboratories of scientists experimenting with electricity to resurrect the dead in the vein of Frankenstein to the traveling show where Stoker once toured as an attraction, the gaslit atmosphere of London in October is the perfect setting for this investigation into the unknown. Through it all, the intrepid pair is always one step behind the latest villain—a man who has killed once and will stop at nothing to recover the body of the woman he loved. Will they unmask him in time to save his next victim? Or will they become the latest figures to be immortalized in his collection of horrors? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I love reading Veronica Speedwell's adventures. This series is just a lot of fun and I enjoy each and every book. A Grave Robbery is another great installment to the series.

I was hooked as soon as I read the synopsis for this one. A wax figure killer!! Tell me more.

This series works so well because of the partnership of Stoker and Veronica. They bicker and banter while solving crimes.

I enjoyed this mystery. It kept me on my toes, trying to figure out what was going on.

Fans of the series will definitely enjoy this newest installment. If you haven't started the Veronica Speedwell Series, you definitely should!

Deanna Raybourn is the New York Times bestselling and Edgar® Award–nominated author of the Veronica Speedwell Mysteries, the Lady Julia Grey series, and several stand-alone novels, including KILLERS OF A CERTAIN AGE. She lives in Virginia with her family.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for A Grave Robbery by Deanna Raybourn! Thank you to Berkley and Deanna Raybourn for letting me be a part of the tour. This is a really fun series that you should definitely add to your TBR!

BLOG TOUR: Kill Switch by Penelope Douglas

I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Kill Switch by Penelope Douglas! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Penelope Douglas for letting me be a part of the tour!

 

 

Title: Kill Switch (Devil's Night #3)

Author: Penelope Douglas

Published by: Berkley

Released: March 12, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: One woman’s worst fears come to life in the third novel of the Devil’s Night dark romance series by New York Times bestseller Penelope Douglas, now with bonus material.

Sending Damon to prison was the worst thing Winter could’ve done. It didn’t matter that he did the crime or that she wished he was dead. Winter thought he’d cool off in jail and be anything but the horror he was, or that at the very least she’d have time to disappear before he got out.

But she was wrong. Three years came and went too fast, and prison only gave him time to plan. And while Winter anticipated his vengeance, she didn’t expect this. He doesn’t want to make her hurt. He wants to make everything hurt.

Damon knows he needs to get rid of Winter’s father, giving her, her sister, and her mother nowhere to run. The Ashby women are desperate for a knight in shining armor. But that’s not what’s coming.

It's time Damon took control of his future. It’s time he showed them all that he will never stop being the nightmare they think he is.

Damon won’t have to break into her home to do it.

As the new man of the house, he has all the keys. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: This book is a chunky monkey! It's not for the faint of heart. This is also book three in a series, and it's better understood if you have read the other books.

This romance was dark and addicting. There are a lot of triggers for this book, which shouldn't be too surprising since it's a dark romance. I couldn't look away. I can see how readers' get so obsessed with these books.

I can see a lot of people enjoying this one. It's a lot, you should know that going in, but if you're prepared, you're going to have a time.

 

 Penelope Douglas is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Their books have been translated into twenty languages and include the Fall Away series, the Hellbent series, the Devil’s Night series, and the stand-alones Misconduct, Punk 57, Birthday Girl, Credence, and Tryst Six Venom. They live in New England with their husband and daughter.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Kill Switch by Penelope Douglas. Thank you to Berkley and Penelope Douglas for letting me be a part of the tour. If you're looking for some intense romance, add this one to your list!

BLOG TOUR: What Grows in the Dark by Jaq Evans

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for What Grows in the Dark by Jaq Evans! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to MIRA and Jaq Evans for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: What Grows in the Dark

Author: Jaq Evans

Published by: MIRA

Released: March 5, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

 Goodreads         Amazon

 

Synopsis: In this chilling contemporary horror novel, a phony spiritualist returns to her hometown to assist in an investigation that eerily mirrors her sister’s death, forcing her to confront the secrets she’s been running from.

Sixteen years ago, Brigit Weylan’s older sister, Emma, walked into the woods in their small hometown of Ellis Creek. She never walked out. People said she was troubled—in the months leading up to her death, she was convinced there was a monster in those trees. Marked by the tragedy, Brigit left town and never looked back.

Now Brigit travels around the country investigating paranormal activity (and faking the results) with her cameraman, Ian. But when she receives a call from Ellis Creek, she’s thrust into the middle of a search for two missing teenagers. As Brigit and Ian are drawn further into the case, the parallels to Emma’s death become undeniable. And worse, Brigit can’t explain what’s happening to trees appearing in her bedroom in the middle of the night, something with a very familiar laugh watching her out in the darkness and Emma’s voice on her phone, reminding Brigit to finish what they started.

More and more, it looks like Emma was right -- there is a monster in Ellis Creek, and it’s waited a long time for Brigit to come home. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: The synopsis for this one really caught my attention. I love stories with some horror, some mystery, and some weird things going on. I enjoyed reading What Grows in the Dark. I was flipping pages just waiting to see what was going to happen next. I was very interested in seeing what all was going to happen.

I had a good time with this one. I'd definitely check out more by this author.

 Jaq Evans grew up running around the woods in Virginia's Blue Ridge foothills and now lives near different mountains in Seattle. A graduate of the Stonecoast MFA program, Jaq writes fiction, narrative nonfiction and poetry. What Grows in the Dark is her first novel.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for What Grows in the Dark by Jaq Evans! Thank you to MIRA and Jaq Evans for letting me be a part of the tour. This would be the perfect book to add to your TBR!

BLOG TOUR: Kilt Trip by Alexandra Kiley

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Kilt Trip by Alexandra Kiley! I received a free electronic copy for an honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Canary Street Press and Alexandra Kiley for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Kilt Trip

Author: Alexandra Kiley

Published by: Canary Street Press

Released: March 5, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads           Amazon

 

Synopsis: Ready or Scot...

Globetrotter Addie Macrae always follows her wanderlust. As a travel consultant, she jet sets around the world—anywhere but Scotland. But when she’s sent on assignment to help a struggling family-run tour company in the Highlands—and save her own job—Addie packs away her emotional baggage and turns on the professional charm.

Rugged as the land he loves, Logan Sutherland’s greatest joy is sharing the beauty of Scotland’s hidden gems…even if it means a wee bit of red ink on the company’s bottom line. The last thing Logan wants is some American “expert” pushing tourist traps and perpetuating myths about the Loch Ness Monster—especially when Addie never leaves her desk to experience the country for herself.

As they wage an office war, Logan discovers Addie’s secret connection to Scotland: a handful of faded Polaroids of her late mother. Hoping for a truce, he creates a private tour to the places in the pictures to help Addie find closure and appreciate the enchantment in less-traveled destinations, never expecting the off-limits attraction sparking between them. But Addie’s contract is almost up, and magic won’t pay the bills. They can’t afford distractions, but how can Addie do her job if she hasn’t explored all Scotland—and Logan—have to offer? (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I really, really enjoyed this one! It was exactly what I was craving, just what I wanted. I loved that it was set in Scotland. This is a perfect book for people wanting to travel without actually leaving home.

I really enjoyed the characters of Addie and Logan. I loved their back and forth. It was fun to watch them go from not liking each other to a relationship. I love those kinds of stories.

This was a lot of fun to read. I can see a lot of other people really enjoying this one.

Alexandra Kiley writes big-hearted romances full of banter, found-family, and deep love. When she’s not writing, you can find her drinking tea, hiking, or gazing adoringly at the mountains of Colorado where she lives with her husband and two kids. Her novels are inspired by her semester in Scotland where she fell in love with not only the lush and magical land, but also the people who invited her into their homes and made her feel like family.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Kilt Trip by Alexandra Kiley! Thank you to Canary Street Press and Alexandra Kiley for letting me be a part of the tour. I'd definitely recommend giving this one a read.

BLOG TOUR: Village in the Dark by Iris Yamashita

I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Village in the Dark by Iris Yamashita! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for a honest review. Thanks so much to Berkley and Iris Yamashita for letting me be a part of the tour!

 

 

Title: Village in the Dark (Cara Kennedy #2)

Author: Iris Yamashita

Published by: Berkley

Released: February 13, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: Detective Cara Kennedy thought she’d lost her husband and son in an accident, but harrowing evidence has emerged that points to murder--and she will stop at nothing to find the truth in this riveting mystery from the author of City Under One Roof.

On a frigid February day, Anchorage Detective Cara Kennedy stands by the graves of her husband and son, watching as their caskets are raised from the earth. It feels sacrilegious, but she has no choice. Aaron and Dylan disappeared on a hike a year ago, their bones eventually found and buried. But shocking clues have emerged that foul play was involved, potentially connecting them to a string of other deaths and disappearances.
 
Somehow tied to the mystery is Mia Upash, who grew up in an isolated village called Unity, a community of women and children in hiding from abusive men. Mia never imagined the trouble she would find herself in when she left home to live in Man’s World. Although she remains haunted by the tragedy of what happened to the man and the boy in the woods, she has her own reasons for keeping quiet.
 
Aided by police officer Joe Barkowski and other residents of Point Mettier, Cara’s investigation will lead them on a dangerous path that puts their lives and the lives of everyone around them in mortal jeopardy. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I am always game for a mystery and Village in the Dark gave me a good mystery. This was a really intense case to follow. This story deals a lot with grief and loss. Detective Cara Kennedy has lost those closest and most important to her, her husband and son.

I loved the setting of the story. It was so atmospheric and almost a character in it's own right. There were a lot of secrets to unravel in this one, and I was invested throughout the story.

There's an intense feeling to this mystery. We've got cat and mouse games happening.

I really enjoyed my time reading this one. I could see a lot of other people really enjoying it too.

 

 Iris Yamashita is an Academy Award–nominated screenwriter for the movie Letters from Iwo Jima. She has been working in Hollywood for fifteen years developing material for both film and streaming, has taught screenwriting at UCLA, and is an advocate of women and diversity in the entertainment industry. She has also been a judge and mentor for various film and writing programs, and lives in California.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Village in the Dark by Iris Yamashita! Thank you to Berkley and Iris Yamashita for letting me be a part of the tour. This is definitely a good mystery to add to your reading pile.

BLOG TOUR: A Step Past Darkness by Vera Kurian

 I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for A Step Past Darkness by Vera Kurian! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Park Row and Vera Kurian for letting me be a part of this tour!

Title: A Step Past Darkness

Author: Vera Kurian

Published by: Park Row

Released: February 20, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: SIX CLASSMATES. ONE TERRIFYING NIGHT. A MURDER TWENTY YEARS IN THE MAKING…

There’s something sinister under the surface of the idyllic, suburban town of Wesley Falls, and it’s not just the abandoned coal mine that lies beneath it. The summer of 1995 kicks off with a party in the mine where six high school students witness a horrifying crime that changes the course of their lives.

The six couldn’t be more different.

• Maddy, a devout member of the local megachurch
• Kelly, the bookworm next door
• James, a cynical burnout
• Casey, a loveable football player
• Padma, the shy straight-A student
• Jia, who’s starting to see visions she can’t explain

When they realize that they can’t trust anyone but each other, they begin to investigate what happened on their own. As tensions escalate in town to a breaking point, the six make a vow of silence, bury all their evidence, and promise to never contact each other again. Their plan works – almost.

Twenty years later, Jia calls them all back to Wesley Falls—Maddy has been murdered, and they are the only ones who can uncover why. But to end things, they have to return to the mine one last time. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: This is exactly the kind of book that I can't resist! I knew I had to read it after that synopsis. I love a mystery. I love a ragtag group. This had such a fun concept that pulled me in.

This is long and it's very character driven. I feel like these facts can either be a turn on or a turn off. I'm in the camp that liked it. I just really wanted to know what happened, so I had to keep reading.

The mystery and supernatural elements were really fun. I had a good time with this one!

Vera Kurian is a writer and scientist. Her short fiction has been published in magazines such as Glimmer Train, Day One and The Pinch. She’s lived in DC for most of her adult life and has a PhD in social psychology. Never Saw Me Coming is her first novel.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for A Step Past Darkness by Vera Kurian! Thank you to Park Row and Vera Kurian for letting me be a part of the tour! This is an easy add to your TBR pile!

BLOG TOUR: Island Witch by Amanda Jayatissa

I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Island Witch by Amanda Jayatissa! I received a free electronic copy for a honest review from the publisher. Thanks so much to Berkley and Amanda Jayatissa for letting me be a part of the tour!

Title: Island Witch

Author: Amanda Jayatissa

Published by: Berkley

Released: February 20, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by the Publisher

Goodreads         Amazon

 

Synopsis: Inspired by Sri Lankan folklore, award-winning author Amanda Jayatissa turns her feverish, Gothic-tinged talents to late 19th century Sri Lanka where the daughter of a traditional demon-priest—relentlessly bullied by peers and accused of witchcraft herself—tries to solve the mysterious attacks that have been terrorizing her coastal village.

Being the daughter of the village Capuwa, or demon-priest, Amara is used to keeping mostly to herself. Influenced by the new religious practices brought in by the British Colonizers, the villagers who once respected her father’s craft have turned on the family. Yet, they all still seem to call on him whenever supernatural disturbances arise.

Now someone—or something —is viciously seizing upon men in the jungle. But instead of enlisting Amara’s father’s help, the villages have accused him of carrying out the attacks himself.

As she tries to clear her father’s name, Amara finds herself haunted by dreams that eerily predict the dark forces on her island. And she can’t shake the feeling that it’s all connected to the night she was recovering from a strange illness, and woke up, scared and confused, to hear her mother’s frantic No one can find out what happened .

Lush, otherworldly, and recalling horror classics like Carrie and The Exorcist , Island Witch is a deliciously creepy and darkly feminist tale about the horrors of moral panic, the violent space between girlhood and adulthood, and what happens when female rage is finally unleashed. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I knew I wanted to read this one as soon as I saw the cover and read that synopsis. I had a good feeling that it was going to be my kind of book!

This was exactly the creepy, gothic tale that I wanted it to be. It's a historical leaning towards horror story. I really loved the vibe of it. I had to keep reading to see what was going to happen next.

I really enjoyed the main character Amara. I'm glad I got to follow her through the story.

There is a lot of violence in this story. Not only are men being killed, but there is also a lot of violence against women. It's not a happy book, but sometimes life is not happy.

I can see a lot of people really enjoying this one. I'd definitely recommend it and I'm glad I got to read it.

When she isn’t recovering from a self induced book hangover, Amanda runs corporate trainings on Communication Skills Development, and works tirelessly as the Chief Taste Tester at the cookie shop she co-owns. She grew up in Sri Lanka and has lived in the California bay area and British countryside, before relocating back to her sunny island, where she lives with her husband and two Tasmanian-devil-reincarnate huskies.

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Island Witch by Amanda Jayatissa! Thank you to Berkley and Amanda Jayatissa for letting me be a part of the tour. This beautiful book should definitely be added to your TBR!

BLOG TOUR: Night for Day by Roselle Lim

I'm excited to be a part of the Blog Tour for Night for Day by Roselle Lim! I received a free electronic copy from the publisher for a honest review. Thanks so much to Ace and Roselle Lim for letting me be a part of the tour!

 

 

Title: Night for Day

Author: Roselle Lim

Published by: Ace

Released: February 20, 2024

Source: Electronic Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Goodreads          Amazon

 

Synopsis: Two people destined to be together, but to never see each other again, fight against the greatest odds in this powerful and moving fantasy novel by critically acclaimed author Roselle Lim.

Exes Ward Dunbar and Camille Buhay thought they would never see each other again. They had broken up to pursue their dream jobs on opposite sides of the country—her to New York City, and him to Los Angeles. But years later, they unexpectedly reconnect in London, where they are interviewing for similar jobs. The spark they feel when they meet again—the attraction comes back like muscle memory, and they are reminded of what they had lost. When Ward and Camille discover they both got the job working opposing shifts, they vow to give their relationship another try.

Ward starts the day shift and finds the immortal clientele unusual and dazzling. When he clocks out at the end of the day, he finds the door locked and himself trapped in the building. After a horrific first night shift contending with restless spirits and ghosts, Camille is also unable to escape. In their respective prisons, they discover that they’re able to talk to each other a few minutes before dawn. This fleeting encounter incites longing for each other, but their promise to be together feels impossible. Because they are caught in the middle of a war of the gods—and their choices will determine the outcome. (Synopsis from Goodreads)

 

My Thoughts: I enjoyed this story. I'm always up for something fantastical, and the synopsis for this one really did pique my interest. I don't think I've read a story like this before. It was very unique.

I enjoyed the way the story was told. I also liked our two main characters of Ward and Camille. They are destined for one another, and have to fight their way back to being with each other.

I was just interested to see where this story was going to go. I could definitely see a lot of other people enjoying it too. It's nice to jump into a book where the creativity really gets you curious. That's how I felt with this one. I'd definitely read other stuff by Roselle Lim.

 

Roselle Lim was born in the Philippines and immigrated to Canada as a child. She lived in north Scarborough in a diverse, Asian neighbourhood.

She found her love of writing by listening to her lola (paternal grandmother's) stories about Filipino folktales. Growing up in a household where Chinese superstition mingled with Filipino Catholicism, she devoured books about mythology, which shaped the fantasies in her novels.

An artist by nature, she considers writing as "painting with words."

Thanks so much for checking out my Blog Tour Stop for Night for Day by Roselle Lim! Thank you to Ace and Roselle Lim for letting me be a part of the tour. I would definitely recommend giving this one a read!