If you enjoy thrillers, you will not be disappointed by Thick as Thieves. Ledge and Arden’s relationship was more like the cherry on top rather than the main scoop of ice cream, but I didn’t mind this one bit as the story was suspenseful and filled with dynamic characters and slowly-revealed secrets.
Tag: Book Reviews
Made of Steel — Ivy Smoak
I knew exactly what I was expecting when I picked up Made of Steel, but what I got blew my expectations out of the water. I started reading this book at around 9 pm and didn’t put it down until I finished. Absolutely 5-star worthy.
Saint Justice — Mike Grist
Ex-CIA agent Cristopher Wren stumbles upon a warehouse in the boondocks of Utah stockpiled with baby formula, multi-vitamins, and sets of adult-sized clothing – everything you need to keep a human alive. He also finds a massive cage. A cage this size is only built for one purpose. Humans. With on-point metaphors, suspenseful action scenes, and psychological twists, Saint Justice fully deserves a 5-star rating and will not disappoint.
The Truth About Cads and Dukes — Elisa Braden
This is my third read-through of this book, and although it is the second in Elisa Braden’s, Rescued from Ruin, series, I specifically chose to write a review for The Truth About Cads and Dukes because it’s that great.
Shamus Dust: Hard Winter, Cold War, Cool Murder — Janet Roger
I was hooked almost immediately and loved following Newman as he unraveled the mystery. I have the utmost appreciation for Roger’s writing; I could almost feel the level of attention that was given to each sentence, and it did not disappoint. Readers of mystery and crime will love this post-WWII, extremely rewarding murder mystery
Marianne — Jenny Hambly
The writing style and witty banter between the well-developed characters immediately hooked me, but I was left continually disappointed when the story didn’t progress into a deeper and more insurmountable conflict. However, others will very likely enjoy reading about Marianne and Cranbourne, as well as the other extremely likable and engaging supporting roles.
Left Behind — Vi Keeland & Dylan Scott
This book was a sweet high-school romance with several plot twists that kept me interested. I flew through the book, but I do wish the tone wasn't so heavy and serious, even when the characters were trying to be upbeat and lighthearted.
Earth Fire — Phil Stern
I enjoyed the originality of the plot, but the level of attitude and drama carried by the protagonists, drawn-out and repetitive fighting scenes, and questionable character motives dampened my enjoyment to the point that I will likely pass on the next book in this installment. If readers enjoy the dramatic tone of daytime soap operas, they will likely enjoy this book.
The Kiss Thief — LJ Shen
I absolutely recommend this book to fans of contemporary romance and feel the author’s combination of complex characters, daring and controversial content, and strong imagery make this book fully deserving of a 5-star rating. LJ Shen created extremely likable and romantic characters. Wolfe’s transformation was beautifully done, and Francesca was basically a victim of circumstance throughout the book but continuously maintained her dignity, willpower, and courage.
The Bride Test — Helen Hoang
I loved this book and was thoroughly charmed by Khai and Esme’s relationship. I just wish Khai’s character was given more attention at the start and his Asperger’s condition played a larger role in the story
Such a Fun Age — Kiley Reid
There are so many themes throughout this book - racism, white privilege, and status - that are part of why I feel it is incredibly important to read. There was nothing in this book I didn’t like, and, although there were many times I found myself cringing in embarrassment along with one of the characters, I couldn’t put it down.
The Warramunga’s Aftermath of War — Greg Kater
Despite the lackluster writing style, it was an entertaining story, and I had fun following Jamie and Jacko as they tracked down the perpetrators. Although this book mainly focused on terminating the pedophile ring, there is a little of something for everyone. Jamie’s love interest takes center stage for a bit, and there are plenty of post-WWII facts to keep history buffs interested
My Big, Fat, Fake Engagement — Lauren Landish
Despite the lack of an original story premise, I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to those looking for a light, steamy romance. Courtney and Kaede’s chemistry was off the charts and provided ample amounts of sexual tension without overdoing the balance between serious and sexual. I thought the book was longer than a typical romantic comedy but never wanted to rush to get through it. Overall, I’d say you know what you’re getting with this book. It was enjoyable, lighthearted, and sexy, and is definitely worth picking up!
The Martian — Andy Weir
For a guy stuck alone on Mars, Mark Watney is shockingly optimistic. I cannot think of one negative thing about this brilliant and hilarious book. You can tell it is incredibly well-researched and Watney is a delight to follow along with. I highly recommend it to everyone, even if you’re not a fan of science. I can guarantee that after this book you will be!
House of Eire — June Gillam
Although the book started out strong, the middle chunk of the book describing their vacation to Ireland, as well as the unrealistic and unresolved ending, disrupted my enjoyment of the book and prevented me from giving it a higher rating. Though this book did not resonate with me personally, I feel others will likely enjoy the mystery and relate to the dynamic main characters.
Hot Mess — Emma Hart
Hot Mess is a contemporary romance that begins when a famous vlogger named Elle finds out that her ex leaked a sex tape of them. It’s lighthearted, funny and a quick read that can be read in one sitting if you’re determined. I wish it had a bit more of the sexual tension I associate with romance novels, but overall I definitely recommend it!
Witches — Phil Stern
I enjoyed reading this book and found myself absorbed by the characters and storyline. I also appreciated the book’s sophisticated vocabulary. The only disappointment for me was the ending. I thought Tiffany’s final interaction with her mother was a bit disassociated from the rest of the book and could have been integrated better. Additionally, there were more typos than I am accustomed to seeing in a professionally-published book.
Randy the Irresistible — S M Goodier
This book was a light-hearted and fun read, incorporating a playful and carefree narration style that I enjoyed. The British humor was a huge plus for me. I would have given it a higher rating if I wasn't disappointing by the ending and there weren't as many run-on sentences
Enif — Russ Berg
This sci-fi / adventure book was astoundingly creative and well-written, with minimal editorial errors. I enjoyed reading it and feel it is well-suited for a young adult audience. I would have enjoyed it more if it was shorter and was completely resolved by the end.
Serendipity Mystery: Diary of a Snoopy Cat — R.F. Kristi
The plotline of this children's book was engaging and enjoyable to read for both adults and children, and the book incorporated relatable animal protagonists, promoting animal welfare. The title of the book and the intended lesson on the concept of serendipity was extremely clever.
Opaque — Calix Leigh-Reign
Although I found the concept of this book intriguing, the poor writing style and confusing narrative clouded my overall enjoyment. Though this book did not resonate with me personally, some readers will likely enjoy the creative plotline and important messages.
Yesterday — Samyann
The only parts of this book that kept me somewhat engaged were the flashbacks into 19th century Charleston and Chicago, and I even felt these parts could have been developed further as its primary function was to highlight Amanda’s instability in her own life. My dislike of Amanda and Mark made it difficult to support their relationship. Their romance was irritating and trite, and at some points even a bit misogynistic. If the book was solely focused on Mark and Amanda’s romance, I would have put it down long before the ending.
Blanket Immunity — Adam Van Susteren
Well-written, with unpredictable plot twists and an engaging story, Blanket Immunity far exceeded my expectations of a legal thriller and captivated me from start to finish. This is absolutely not a book filled with dry legalese; this book is an exciting crime/thriller novel, told through the eyes of a criminal defense lawyer.
Strong Heart — Charlie Sheldon
A fictional novel about the Olympic National Park in Washington state, this book was slow to start but eventually I was intrigued, especially by references to long-standing archaeological theories. I wish the book had a better final resolution.
Devil in False Colors — Jack Winnick
Devil in False Colors begins with a brutal attack on a Jewish pre-school in Orange County, California. Jack Winnick has provided readers with a fictional, but terrifyingly realistic, novel that draws on extremely relevant topics in today’s media. His daring plotline and look into the minds of radical terrorists had me not wanting to put the book down. I recommend this book to those who enjoy political thrillers, crime, and action.
Spyder Bones — Oliver Phipps
This was a thought-provoking and creative metaphysical fiction book. I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline, action scenes, and creative take on the overlap between the spiritual realm and the human world.
One Way or Another — Mary J. Williams
One Mother. Three pregnancies. Four different fathers. A conundrum to say the least. Adam and Calder’s relationship is fun, sexy, and refreshing in its simplicity. The main characters also managed to avoid typical romance novel cliches, which is impressive. Without revealing any spoilers, I will just say that the ending absolutely ensured that I will follow through the series.
The Girl Who Loved Caravaggio — Belle Ami
I enjoyed the historical scenes and art history references in this book but felt Alex and Angela’s romance was severely lacking. At its heart, this book is a romance novel, although it is described as a thriller. I fear many readers will pick up this book looking for a thriller and be similarly disappointed by a lack-luster romance that takes center stage.