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Dark Justice (The Unbreakable Vow #1)
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Joshua believes love can bring Colin home. And even from across an ocean, Colin hears it calling. ...
Contemporary Dark Suspenseful MM Romance
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2496 KP) rated Egg Drop Dead in Books
Apr 11, 2025 (Updated Apr 11, 2025)
Catering to a Killer
Lana Lee has decided to expand her family’s restaurant into catering, and their first gig is for family friend Donna Feng. But the party ends when Donna’s nanny is found floating in the pool. While the police look at Donna, Lana finds evidence that it might actually tie to Donna’s past. But how could that tie in to this murder?
Donna and her past were plot points for the first book in this series, so if you haven’t read that book, know there are spoilers here. I was actually happy to see this come up again with enough background to refresh my memory. There are some good clues, although I’m not sure the villain’s actions at the end made perfect sense. Still, I was hooked on the suspenseful climax. Many of the regulars took a backseat, which was good in the case of Lana’s family. But we got some great new characters, one of which I hope pops up again. This series is getting stronger as it goes along. Fans who are behind will enjoy this entry.
Donna and her past were plot points for the first book in this series, so if you haven’t read that book, know there are spoilers here. I was actually happy to see this come up again with enough background to refresh my memory. There are some good clues, although I’m not sure the villain’s actions at the end made perfect sense. Still, I was hooked on the suspenseful climax. Many of the regulars took a backseat, which was good in the case of Lana’s family. But we got some great new characters, one of which I hope pops up again. This series is getting stronger as it goes along. Fans who are behind will enjoy this entry.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Clairvoyants in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Martha has had an interesting childhood and upbringing. As a young girl, she saw the ghost of her aunt, a nun, in her grandfather's barn. As a teen, the dead frequently appeared to Martha, though she rarely knew what to do with these apparitions. Also in her teen years, Martha's younger sister, Del, wound up sent to an institution. Incredibly close as children, Del's slow decent into some sort of madness also haunted Martha. So she decides to depart her family's farm and move inland to college. Once in Ithaca, Martha falls in love, is reunited with Del, and frequently sees the ghost of Mary Rae, a missing woman from a neighboring town, who stands beneath Martha's window for hours, wearing her coat and with her hair covered in ice. Martha had hoped to escape the dead in Ithaca, but it seems like somehow everything is going to converge on her nonetheless.
This book was not at all what I had expected; it's less a supernatural thriller and more a literary treatise as we watch Martha deal with the events in her life. The chapters switch between present-day in Ithaca and flashbacks to Martha's life growing up. Sometimes it's a little confusing, but also quite interesting. I had expected the book to be more of a mystery as we try to figure out what happened to Mary Rae, but honestly, it's pretty apparent from the beginning who is responsible for her disappearance, even if the "how" is unknown. Still, the book is incredibly suspenseful and very compelling; I found myself trying to read it every chance as I had.
The psychological/mystical aspect isn't really as much at play here as you'd think from the summary, but that's okay. I didn't find it as creepy as some of the other reviews, but as I stated, still very spellbinding. There's an "aha moment" when you're reading and things come together that is masterfully done. While I wasn't in love with the character of Martha, I was intrigued by both she and Del, and I found all of the characters to be fascinating and intricate in their own way. The ending was a little quick for me, but somewhat redeemed by one particular portion (don't want to give away a spoiler). Overall, this was a different book--unlike ones I typically read--and while I didn't find it amazing, it was an engrossing and suspenseful novel. 3.5 stars.
This book was not at all what I had expected; it's less a supernatural thriller and more a literary treatise as we watch Martha deal with the events in her life. The chapters switch between present-day in Ithaca and flashbacks to Martha's life growing up. Sometimes it's a little confusing, but also quite interesting. I had expected the book to be more of a mystery as we try to figure out what happened to Mary Rae, but honestly, it's pretty apparent from the beginning who is responsible for her disappearance, even if the "how" is unknown. Still, the book is incredibly suspenseful and very compelling; I found myself trying to read it every chance as I had.
The psychological/mystical aspect isn't really as much at play here as you'd think from the summary, but that's okay. I didn't find it as creepy as some of the other reviews, but as I stated, still very spellbinding. There's an "aha moment" when you're reading and things come together that is masterfully done. While I wasn't in love with the character of Martha, I was intrigued by both she and Del, and I found all of the characters to be fascinating and intricate in their own way. The ending was a little quick for me, but somewhat redeemed by one particular portion (don't want to give away a spoiler). Overall, this was a different book--unlike ones I typically read--and while I didn't find it amazing, it was an engrossing and suspenseful novel. 3.5 stars.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Imperfect Women in Books
Sep 17, 2020
An engaging and suspenseful look into the power of secrets
Eleanor, Nancy, and Mary have been best friends since they met at Oxford. But then Nancy is murdered, leaving behind an adoring husband and a daughter. Her life, from the outside, was seemingly perfect. But Eleanor knows that the night Nancy died, she was going to meet her lover, hoping to break it off. And as the investigation into Nancy's death continues, both Eleanor and Mary struggle with their grief, the memories they have of their friend, and what her death means for those left behind.
"Eleanor felt a jolt of terror pass through her as she realized that everything about Nancy's death was worse than any other death anywhere. They would all suffer, and nothing would ever be the same again."
This was a truly fascinating book: it's part character-driven mystery and part insightful look at the role of women in society. It's told from the point of view of the three friends, but not the usual quick back and forth: we get large chunks of the story told from one woman at a time. Truths unfold slowly, as we learn bits and pieces about Eleanor, Nancy, and Mary--from themselves and each other.
The focal point of the story is Nancy's rather gruesome murder, but Hall fills her tale with thoughts and ruminations on women and how they are seen in society--and how they feel they are perceived. In some ways, it felt like a bunch broad generalizations applied to women, yet as I read, I found that most of them really rang true. I was furiously highlighting passages, nodding my head yes!
At times, it was hard to see where this book was going. Murder? Deep thoughts? It certainly straddled the line on both. In terms of Nancy's murder, I had a good chunk figured out early on, but the story certainly kept me engaged, reading and wondering if I was right. All three flawed (imperfect, indeed) women were interesting in their own way, and I liked each woman's section. I found this to be a very well-written book, but it's not a snappy thriller.
If you want a fast whodunit, this isn't for you. But if you want a well-done and thoughtful read, I recommend Hall's latest. It's a suspenseful and insightful look at love, marriage, and friendship. 4 stars.
"Eleanor felt a jolt of terror pass through her as she realized that everything about Nancy's death was worse than any other death anywhere. They would all suffer, and nothing would ever be the same again."
This was a truly fascinating book: it's part character-driven mystery and part insightful look at the role of women in society. It's told from the point of view of the three friends, but not the usual quick back and forth: we get large chunks of the story told from one woman at a time. Truths unfold slowly, as we learn bits and pieces about Eleanor, Nancy, and Mary--from themselves and each other.
The focal point of the story is Nancy's rather gruesome murder, but Hall fills her tale with thoughts and ruminations on women and how they are seen in society--and how they feel they are perceived. In some ways, it felt like a bunch broad generalizations applied to women, yet as I read, I found that most of them really rang true. I was furiously highlighting passages, nodding my head yes!
At times, it was hard to see where this book was going. Murder? Deep thoughts? It certainly straddled the line on both. In terms of Nancy's murder, I had a good chunk figured out early on, but the story certainly kept me engaged, reading and wondering if I was right. All three flawed (imperfect, indeed) women were interesting in their own way, and I liked each woman's section. I found this to be a very well-written book, but it's not a snappy thriller.
If you want a fast whodunit, this isn't for you. But if you want a well-done and thoughtful read, I recommend Hall's latest. It's a suspenseful and insightful look at love, marriage, and friendship. 4 stars.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2496 KP) rated Flipped for Murder (Country Store Mysteries, #1) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
Robbie Jordan has been working hard to open Pan ‘n Pancakes in South Lick, Indiana, and her hard work is paying off. On opening day, the place is packed, and her new customers seem to really like the food. Unfortunately, that afternoon, the disagreeable assistant at city hall is murdered with one of Robbie’s signature biscuits in her mouth. Worried that her status as a murder suspect will ruin her fledgling business, Robbie begins to investigate. But can she find the real killer?
This is a wonderful first book in a new series. The characters are already sharp and fun, and I can’t wait to visit them again in future books. The plot is solid with some good twists along the way to a logical and suspenseful ending. The descriptions are wonderful, and I felt like I was right there in Indiana with Robbie. I can’t wait to visit again.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/10/book-review-flipped-for-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This is a wonderful first book in a new series. The characters are already sharp and fun, and I can’t wait to visit them again in future books. The plot is solid with some good twists along the way to a logical and suspenseful ending. The descriptions are wonderful, and I felt like I was right there in Indiana with Robbie. I can’t wait to visit again.
NOTE: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2015/10/book-review-flipped-for-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2496 KP) rated Grilled For Murder (Country Store Mysteries, #2) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
Robbie Jordan is keeping her restaurant open on a Saturday night for a special welcome home party for Erica Shermer. However, not everyone is thrilled that Erica is back, as Robbie sees when Erica fights with several of the guests. Still, she’s surprised when she comes down the next morning to find Erica dead in the restaurant. What was Erica doing back at the restaurant? And who killed her?
I fell in love with these characters when I read the first in the series, so it was great to be back spending time with them again. The new characters are just as fun and make wonderful suspects. One item introduced as part of the plot was left open, but I can easily see it being resolved in a future book. The main mystery of who killed Erica is well done, giving us a steady dose of clues and suspects until we reach the logical and suspenseful end.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-grilled-for-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
I fell in love with these characters when I read the first in the series, so it was great to be back spending time with them again. The new characters are just as fun and make wonderful suspects. One item introduced as part of the plot was left open, but I can easily see it being resolved in a future book. The main mystery of who killed Erica is well done, giving us a steady dose of clues and suspects until we reach the logical and suspenseful end.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-grilled-for-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Sean Farrell (9 KP) rated The Kind Worth Killing in Books
Mar 15, 2018
It would be hard to describe this book without giving too many of its surprises away, so I am just going to summarize the very beginning. A man meets a woman in an airport lounge in England, on the flight home, the 2 wind up discussing the possibility of killing his unfaithful wife and her lover. By the time the plane lands, they have the beginnings of an actual plan worked out. Where things go from there I cannot say, but do be prepared for a chain of events that are a lot less straightforward than that description might suggest. Twists and surprises are scattered liberally throughout this tale of revenge, which pulls the reader in pretty much from the first page. The characters, while understandably a bit hard to like, are never less than interesting, which only helps to add to the suspense when they find themselves in potentially dangerous situations. My only real complaint would be that the ending felt a bit flat. It's not to say that it's bad, rather that it didn't feel climactic enough considering all that had transpired before it. Still, that shouldn't stop you from reading this otherwise excellent and suspenseful novel.
Sean Farrell (9 KP) rated Hot Target (Troubleshooters, #8) in Books
Mar 15, 2018
While many of the books I've read have certainly contained romantic elements or plots, I have never read a book that would actually be categorized as Romance, but one of my best friends loves the genre and so I thought I'd give one a go to see what she's always on about. She recommended I try this particular book and I have to say it was a smart choice for someone new to the genre. The characters are all pretty engaging and the plotline is more than suspenseful enough to keep your interest piqued throughout. Most important perhaps though, is that the romantic entanglements themselves all felt pretty believable. I couldn't help but feel genuinely concerned about their outcomes and was actively rooting for the couples, which I would imagine is a requirement of a truly successful example of the genre. My only complaint would be that some of the dialogue felt a little clunky to me, but that was only occasionally a problem and didn't do anything to detract from my enjoyment of the book. This is a great introduction to the genre for the uninitiated and a must-read for those who are already fans.
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated Taking Fire (One-Eyed Jacks, #4) in Books
Jul 12, 2018
I received this book for free for an honest review.
I love Cindy Gerard and I was excited to be accepted for an advanced reader copy of this book. When I got the acceptance email I had only read one of the books in the One-Eyed Jacks series so naturally, I had to read the other two before I started this one.
I still stand by the fact that this isn't my favorite of her series but that isn't saying much. I fell in love with the characters from her Black Ops series so it was hard to transition to other characters. I liked the other ones but honestly, this one was on par with the Black Ops books.
The characters are (as always) amazing. The backstory of Bobby was amazing to read and I loved Talia. The twists and turns were a little predictable but still fun and engaging.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes military romance. The characters are detailed and her combat writing is very engaging. If you're looking for a suspenseful romance that is sure to keep you up at night, this is the book for you!
I love Cindy Gerard and I was excited to be accepted for an advanced reader copy of this book. When I got the acceptance email I had only read one of the books in the One-Eyed Jacks series so naturally, I had to read the other two before I started this one.
I still stand by the fact that this isn't my favorite of her series but that isn't saying much. I fell in love with the characters from her Black Ops series so it was hard to transition to other characters. I liked the other ones but honestly, this one was on par with the Black Ops books.
The characters are (as always) amazing. The backstory of Bobby was amazing to read and I loved Talia. The twists and turns were a little predictable but still fun and engaging.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes military romance. The characters are detailed and her combat writing is very engaging. If you're looking for a suspenseful romance that is sure to keep you up at night, this is the book for you!
Lindsay (1804 KP) rated Bloodmark (Bloodmark Saga, #1) in Books
Aug 30, 2018 (Updated Apr 9, 2019)
Aurora Whittet is a new author to me. She did a wonderful job describing this lifeform that Ashing Boru is. We meet Ashing Boru, and she is to go to meet her father. Her father tries to marry her off. This gets a little more complicated.
Ashing needs protecting and she does not know why or even understand. But has she goes about her life and taken away from her family. She starts to grow and once her brothers Mund and Quinn and family show up. She wonders why. They have come to protect Ashing.
There are some really surprise and twist that come about. We meet Grey. We do not know if he is or what he becomes. He seems to love Ashing Boru. Ashing Boru seems to love Grey. Who is he, and what will happen and will Grey protect Ashing? What has happened to Grey’s mother, and who is Grey’s father.
The story gets even more interesting has you turn the page. Aurora has made it so suspenseful that it hard to put down. It pulls at you. Who could be after Ashing Boru?
Ashing needs protecting and she does not know why or even understand. But has she goes about her life and taken away from her family. She starts to grow and once her brothers Mund and Quinn and family show up. She wonders why. They have come to protect Ashing.
There are some really surprise and twist that come about. We meet Grey. We do not know if he is or what he becomes. He seems to love Ashing Boru. Ashing Boru seems to love Grey. Who is he, and what will happen and will Grey protect Ashing? What has happened to Grey’s mother, and who is Grey’s father.
The story gets even more interesting has you turn the page. Aurora has made it so suspenseful that it hard to put down. It pulls at you. Who could be after Ashing Boru?