Dr. Spilsbury and the Camden Town Killer by D.L. Douglas - Book Review

Series: Dr. Slipsbury #1

Publication Date: 20th July 2023 

Genre: Historical Mystery 

4 Stars 

One Liner: An interesting read 

January 1920, London 

A woman’s body is found dragged from the Regent’s Canal one night. Famous forensic pathologist and criminal sleuth Dr Bernard Spilsbury sees that it’s a case of foul play. Soon, a second body washes up and the police have their hands with a possible killer bumping off women for some reason. Dr. Slipbury steps into action to solve the case before more bodies turn up. 

The story comes in the third-person POVs of Dr. Spilsbury and a few other characters. 

My Thoughts: 

I did basic googling about Dr. Spilsbury before reading the book. Things are a bit different here since the fictional version seems to have a few traces of Holmes (lack of social cues and no family parts). The real one was married and had four children (or three) but the character is single and a loner by choice. Anyhoo, it didn’t affect my reading experience (though I am not fond of such changes to real people’s lives).

The beginning is a bit slow (though this book has 400+ pages) as it introduces the main characters and establishes the situation.

WWI might have ended, but it still had a strong impact on many lives. The war backdrop has a major role in the plot even if it doesn’t seem that way. 

While Dr. Spilsbury didn’t make the mark as I expected, I love Violet Malone. Her character is wonderful, so it makes me super happy to see she will continue to be in the next book (and the others). 

Charlie is another interesting character and will have a role in the subsequent books. His backstory and arc are also well done, making him an easy one to like and support. 

The pacing is pretty much steady with some new developments happening frequently. As the plot became more complex, I realized I didn’t want to stop reading (though I had to). The various tracks kept me hooked and wondering how it would all come together. 

I admit it took me a little while to guess the killer. I did figure out a few other things. The reveal is not highlighted which may make the whole thing seem a bit dull to some readers. However, I felt it was in tune with the rest of the contents and there were some loose ends to tie up afterward, so it fits on the whole. 

To summarize, Dr. Spilsbury and the Camden Town Killer is an interesting mystery that also deals with various other themes like prejudice, class differences, bias against women, the effect of war on soldiers, family relationships, lack of money, privilege, etc. 

Off to read the next in the series. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Orion Publishing Group, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #DrSpilsburyAndTheCamdenTownKiller

Murder in an English Castle by Merryn Allingham - Book Review - Book Tour

Series: Flora Steele Mystery #10

Publication Date: 20th Nov 2024

Purchase Link: https://geni.us/B0D12DYX12social

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/216955883-murder-in-an-english-castle

Genre: Historical Cozy Mystery

3.7 Stars

One Liner: Entertaining!

Book Blurb:

It’s time to rewrite history with amateur detectives Flora Steele and Jack Carrington as they are called to a castle to unearth the clues of a murder most medieval…

Sussex, 1959:

The sun is shining on the breathtaking castle as the Abbeymead Historical Society prepares their re-enactment of the Battle of Lewes. But the fun ends abruptly when council worker Alex Vicary falls to his death from the castle ramparts. A shadowy figure runs from the scene, but Alex was a beloved member of the community… who could possibly want him dead?

As Flora and Jack investigate further, they dig up troubles Alex kept buried from those closest to him. Perhaps he was pushed by his money-hungry landlord, Larry Morton, who was trying to sell Alex’s home? Or maybe his oldest and shiftiest friend, Bruce Sullivan, who gambled away the money Alex loaned him? Or could it be his wide-eyed new girlfriend, Diane Croft, who dodges questions about Alex’s death, and hides presents from another suitor?

But when Flora discovers an engagement ring among Alex’s possessions, she is stunned to learn that his relationship with Diane was more serious than everyone thought. With whispers of another man fighting for Diane’s heart, were the battle lines drawn for love?

Then the body of a second member of the society is found, and the pair realize time is running out. Will history repeat itself with yet another death? Or can Flora and Jack catch their killer before the medieval murderer bids them both adieu?

A totally compelling and absolutely charming cozy mystery novel. Fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin, and Joy Ellis will adore this unputdownable series!

***

My Thoughts:

The story comes in Flora and Jack’s third-person POVs.

Though the book works as a standalone, I’d recommend reading the previous two books to get a better idea of the characters and their friendship with others in the story.

Flora and Jack have gotten into a rhythm, dividing their days between Lewes and Abbeymead. While it is not all flowers and roses, things are decent and soon they can go on their honeymoon to Venice (possibly the next book).

The recurring side characters in the series do their bit here too. Alice is grumbling but efficient. Kate is busy with her baby girl and the diner. Inspector Alan has too much paperwork and not enough time.

The side drama is handled without too much conflict or unwanted displays of emotion, though we can feel the tension between the characters. There’s just enough to make things a bit uncomfortable for some of them. All a part of life!

The mystery begins right away with the murder in the prologue. The details are revealed in stages and the suspect list grows/ changes accordingly. It’s Flora who does the majority of the work this time. Jack is less involved though he does manage to step in when absolutely necessary. Maybe in the next book, he’ll get back to proper sleuthing.

To summarize, Murder in an English Castle is an easy cozy mystery with some history, secrets, danger, and dead bodies. As always, the book is fairly short and has a steady pace. Looking forward to the next one!

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for eARC. 

#NetGalley

***

About the Author – Merryn Allingham

Merryn taught university literature for many years, and it took a while to pluck up the courage to begin writing herself. Bringing the past to life is a passion and her historical fiction includes Regency romances, wartime sagas and timeslip novels, all of which have a mystery at their heart. As the books have grown darker, it was only a matter of time before she plunged into crime with a cosy crime series set in rural Sussex against the fascinating backdrop of the 1950s.

Merryn lives in a beautiful old town in Sussex with her husband. When she’s not writing, she tries to keep fit with adult ballet classes and plenty of walking.

Follow the Author:

Website: https://merrynallingham.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MerrynWrites

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/merrynwrites

Sign up to be the first to hear about new releases from Merryn Allingham here:  https://www.bookouture.com/merryn-allingham

***

This has been a pitstop on the blog tour for #MurderInAnEnglishCastle by Bookouture (@bookouture). Thank you for stopping by! 

Sign up for all the best Bookouture deals: http://ow.ly/Fkiz30lnzdo

 

A Holiday Homicide by Ellie Alexander - Book Review

Series: A Secret Bookcase Mystery #4

Publication Date: 20th Nov 2024

Genre: Small Town Cozy Mystery 

3.5 Stars 

One Liner: A quick little mystery 

When local bakery owner, Sugar, asks Annie to host a gingerbread competition at the Secret Bookcase Shop, everyone is excited. A famous influencer baker, Lily Hawthorne, is the guest and is supposed to promote their small town, Redwood Grove. 

However, things take a different turn when there’s a death on the site and everything indicates it was a murder. Can Annie, with help from friends, solve the case and save the day for her town? 

The story comes in Annie’s first-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

I didn’t realize this had an influencer (the official blurb is rather vague). While it’s not my favorite topic, the book tackles the theme well. We see the real and fake sides of social media fame, as well as the threats that come with it. 

Set during the Holidays, the book brings the Christmas vibe alive with gingerbread, spiced teas, seasonal flavored coffees, cakes, cupcakes, and more! The weather is cold, which adds to the atmosphere. 

The pacing is fast just like the previous books in the series. We get enough backstory about the characters and the overarching subplot for this work as a standalone. Though, note that you’ll find it repetitive if you’ve read the previous books. 

Annie makes some major decisions and is excited about the future after a long time. While I like her love story with Liam, she tends to go off-tagent and daydream like a teenager. That doesn’t always work. 

The main mystery was easy enough to guess though there are a few suspects to consider. There is a little progress on the Scarlet track. I wish it would start to pick up pace and become a central mystery in one of the upcoming books. 

The recurring side characters like Priya, Fletcher, and Hal are adorable as always. I like how they are so supportive and care for Annie. Their thoughtfulness gives the story a warm cozy vibe. Too bad we get to meet Professor Plum only once. 

To summarize, A Holiday Homicide is a light mystery with some likable and unlikeable characters. Though it doesn’t have any dark vibes, it does talk about the grief of losing a loved one. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #AHolidayHomicide

Someone Like You by Sandy Barker - Book Review - Blog Tour

Series: Ever After Agency #4 (Standalone)

Publication Date: 12th Nov 2024

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/someonelikeyousocial

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214540475-someone-like-you

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction, Romance

3.3 Stars

One Liner: A decent timepass read

Book Blurb:

What do you do when you realize you've fallen for your best friend, but he sees you as the sister he never had? And to make things worse, you're stuck in the middle of a matchmaking scheme to find him someone else!

Best friends Gaby and Raff are inseparable and know each other inside out. But with Raff's string of disastrous relationships and his newfound fame as Britain’s Best Baker, it's time to enlist the Ever After Agency to help him find true love.

At first, Gaby is all in – Raff is a catch, after all. But as she secretly helps to find his perfect match, she’s hit with unexpected pangs of jealousy. And before she can act on her feelings, Raff falls for one of his dates.

Can Gaby keep her emotions in check, or will she risk ruining their friendship to find out if Raff feels the same way?

Set in London and Seattle, this romantic and festive romcom is perfect for fans of Emily Henry, Mhairi McFarlane, and Lindsey Kelk.

***

My Thoughts:

The story comes in Gaby and Poppy’s first-person POVs.

This should work as a standalone (I haven’t read the previous books). However, I was unprepared for Poppy’s POV in a story that didn’t belong to her.

Firstly, the premise of friends-to-lovers with some supposed third-party drama is not only interesting but has much potential to explore the MCs’ friendship and the realization parts. Unfortunately, the book succeeds only to a point.

The second half is decidedly better and more entertaining than the first. Once the setting changes, the story ups the ante with ease. The main reason for this is the focus on Gaby and Raffe even though there are a bunch of people around them.

The first half takes time to establish the dynamic, which is good but I was so annoyed by Freya (until she redeemed herself to an extent). Also, I needed more of Aunt CiCi. She sounds wonderful!

The main characters are actually good. I could empathize with both of them. However, the chapters with Poppy’s first-person POV (especially the ones set away from the office) were irritating. All of it could have been condensed and told to us in a couple of paragraphs. Her POV should have been in the third person.

Instead of limiting Raffe’s POV to the prologue, it should have been included more (at least 3 chapters) in between by replacing Poppy’s home scenes. That would have given us more insight into his feelings and the exact moment of realization. This part has been settled in a single sentence.

I enjoyed meeting Gaby’s family a lot (even the aunt, lol). Seeing how this ended, I feel they will feature in one of the upcoming books as well. I might try that one just to meet them again. Lovely family vibes with chaos, banter, love, and laughter.

Though the book explores another trope (forced proximity), it doesn’t do much except make one of them feel sadder. This is where Raffe’s POV would have elevated the narrative and later too in the supermarket.

I wouldn’t really call this a romance read. It’s more of a women’s fic with a bit of romance. The wait is long (which I don’t mind) but the journey could have been better.

To summarize, Someone Like You is a sweet story about not just love but also about family, friendships, and being there for those who matter to you.

Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources and Boldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

#NetGalley

***

About the Author – Sandy Barker

I’m a writer, traveller, and hopeful romantic, and am currently on a one-year sabbatical with my partner, Ben, living and writing across the world.

As a traveller, I love exploring new places, outdoor adventures, and eating and drinking like a local, and many of my travel adventures have found homes in my novels.

Follow the Author:

Facebook: @SandyBarkerAuthor

Twitter: @SandyBarker

Instagram: @sandybarkerauthor

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/SandyBarkernews

***

This has been a stop on the #SomeoneLikeYou blog tour by Rachel's Random Resources. (@rararesources) Thanks for stopping by!

Skyfleet: March of the Mutabugs by Victoria Williamson, James Brown (illustrator) - Book Review - Blog Tour

Publication Date: 24^th Oct 2024

Purchase Link (Canada): https://a.co/d/7OiVBIY (Canada)

Purchase Link (USA): https://a.co/d/abVrfJ6

Purchase Link (UK): https://amzn.eu/d/2BKDkj5

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217402251-skyfleet 

Storygraph Book Page: https://app.thestorygraph.com/books/b4187899-258e-4ea2-8e83-9cad557dd26a

Genre: Middle Grade Adventure, Sci-fi  

4 Stars

One Liner: I read it in one sitting!

Book Blurb:

When the skies turn deadly, a young heroine must rise from the ashes...

Twelve-year-old Amberley Jain has faced incredible challenges since the crash that took her parents and paralysed her legs. Now, with her best friend Ricardo Lopez about to be sent away and a swarm of mutated insects closing in on the Skyfleet base, the stakes have never been higher. Something monstrous is driving the mutabugs north from the contaminated meteor site known as the Cauldron, and the only plane capable of stopping it - the Firehawk - lies in pieces in the hangar.

Determined to honour her parents' legacy, Amberley hatches a daring plan. With Ricardo's help, they stow away on a supply train, trading his most treasured possession for the parts needed to repair the Firehawk. After secret test flights, the legendary jet is ready for action. Now, Amberley and Ricardo must confront the deadly swarm and save their home, discovering their inner strength and the true meaning of friendship along the way.

Skyfleet: March of the Mutabugs is a thrilling tale of adventure and resilience, perfect for middle-grade readers.

***

My Thoughts:

The story comes in the third-person POV of Amberley and Ric with snippets from other characters as letters, notes, and journal entries.

I admit I didn’t fully read before requesting to join the tour for this book. I saw the cover with a dashing plane shaped like a bird, noted the names of the kiddos, and jumped to grab a copy. (Also, my friend, Rosh, read a few books by the author and liked them, so I wanted to try this one).

Dystopian is not my thing. I am cynical but I don’t like the morose undertones in the genre. However, this one is quite refreshing. The story is set in the New World where a group of people (those who left the Old World looking for a better life) live in settlements. With the talk of radiation and how toxic waste has resulted in mutabugs, it’s evident that the timeline is futuristic.

The book starts slowly as it establishes the setting and the dangerous situation right away. Though the world-building is not detailed, there is enough to imagine the scenario. Also, all the fighter jets (like Firehawk and Dogstar) are clearly described with an illustration and notes (make, model, pros, cons, pilot, etc.).

Amberley and Ric are easy to like though they have traits one would not want in children – stealing, breaking rules, sneaking out, etc. They do get caught and are reprimanded by elders but that doesn’t stop them. Moreover, we actually empathize with the kids instead of the adults in this case. I could feel their frustration, fear, and grief at how things were being handled.

Also, the rep is great. Amberley is in a wheelie chair due to paralysis from the accident. Ric cannot see and wears a special eye device with IR vision. However, these limitations are not a hindrance. Amberley was born to be a pilot and trained by her parents since a baby. Similarly, Ric was trained to be a mechanic and is such a smart lad that he can convert any piece of scrap into something useful.

Of course, the adults aren’t bad. Here, the enemies are mutabugs, cockroaches, and other dangerous creatures that have become near-invisible by absorbing the radiation over the years. A scary situation, right?

Screwball Sydney is such a fab character. She’s eccentric and the kind of person you would want in your corner, of course, with an assurance that she won’t do something reckless. Rafe is another interesting character. Skipper Maddox was good too but Sydney wins hands down (and so does her pet wombat, Mascot).

As with most MG fiction, this one too relies on kids putting themselves in risky situations (even if it is for the greater good). We can see both (adults and kids) perspectives and know they did what they did.

I don’t know much about mechanics and jets so can’t say if the technical details are accurate. But then, this is set in the future with advanced technology, so anything is possible! On this note, I found it cheeky that a certain jet gives Steampunk vibes (no points for guessing who it belongs to).

The ending is hopeful and positive on different levels. I like how this is presented and balanced with the note at the beginning.

To summarize, Skyfleet is a pacy adventurous, exciting, dangerous, and heartwarming story about two kids trying to prove their worth and helping their community during adversity.

Thank you, TheWriteReads, Tiny Tree Books, and author Victoria Williamson, for a copy of the book. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

***

About the Author – Victoria Williamson

Victoria Williamson grew up in Glasgow, Scotland, and has worked as an educator in a number of different countries, including as an English teacher in China, a secondary science teacher in Cameroon, and a teacher trainer in Malawi.

As well as degrees in Physics and Mandarin Chinese, she has completed a Masters degree in Special Needs in Education. In the UK she works as a primary school special needs teacher, working with children with a range of additional support needs including Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, physical disabilities and behavioural problems.

She is currently working as a full time writer of Middle Grade and YA contemporary fiction, science fiction and fantasy, with a focus on creating diverse characters reflecting the many cultural backgrounds and special needs of the children she has worked with, and building inclusive worlds where all children can see a reflection of themselves in heroic roles.

Victoria’s experiences teaching young children in a school with many families seeking asylum inspired her debut novel, The Fox Girl and the White Gazelle, an uplifting tale of redemption and unlikely friendship between Glaswegian bully Caylin and Syrian refugee Reema.

You can find out more about Victoria’s books, school visits, and free resources for schools on her website: www.strangelymagical.com

***

This has been a stop on the #Skyfleet blog tour by TheWriteReads. Thanks for stopping by!

The Forgotten One by Catherine Bybee - Book Review

Series: The Heirs #2 (Standalone)

Publication Date: 12th Nov 2024

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Drama 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: Feel-good family drama 

Max was a regular working man living alone and doing his job with a few groans and curses. Suddenly, he is the heir to an ultra-rich dead man and is worthy of billions. Max isn’t sure what he wants but whatever he decides, the press and business partners will not let him stay low. 

Sarah is a rare find in the tabloid industry and writes nothing but truth even if it means skipping deadlines. Turns out, this trait is what her boss wants when he assigns her to find out more about the elusive Maximillian Smith. 

For Max, Sarah is a useful person to control the narrative when the truth comes out. For Sarah, Max is a way to retain her job. As the two try to fill gaps in his past, they have to deal with their feelings for each other as well as the increasing pressure from the press. 

The story comes mostly in Max and Sarah’s third-person POVs. 

My Thoughts: 

This is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. The story seems to continue from the previous book, but I could follow it without issues. While the central plot is resolved, book #3 will neatly tie up the loose ends. 

It’s a low-stakes read with many feel-good vibes and works on the premise that good things will happen to good people. I like that there isn’t unwanted drama or angst except for what’s necessary. This may not work for everyone but it suited me just fine. 

Romance naturally gets a good share of space. It’s got some steam but less than 2 stars with much detail being left to the reader’s imagination. 

This is in equal parts (or more) a family drama. The side characters (Chase, Piper, and Alex) are easy to like. Makes sense since the first book belonged to Chase and Piper. The next should be Alex’s. I’m curious to see who she’ll be paired with. 

The dual POV works well to give us both perspectives. While Max sometimes sounds off, he has his reasons and shows good progress as the plot moves ahead. Sarah is a good character and never gives readers a chance to doubt her integrity. 

The book starts with a short author’s note and a personal anecdote about foster systems. This is one of the major themes, though it doesn’t overshadow the rest. We get details in bits and pieces, which add depth to the MMC’s arc. 

The pacing feels a bit uneven but it is a pretty quick read overall. I could finish it in a couple of sittings, though the page count is around 380. The little bits of humor and sass contribute to the fun levels. 

To summarize, The Forgotten One is an entertaining and heartwarming book about finding one’s family and being open to accepting new blessings. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Montlake, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #TheForgottenOne

The Teller of Small Fortunes by Julie Leong - Book Review

Publication Date: 05th Nov 2024 

Genre: Historical Cozy Fantasy  

3.5 Stars (sort of outliner) 

One Liner: Lovely covers, decent content 

Tao is a nomadic fortune teller. She prefers to move from one place to another, not staying anywhere long enough to attract unwanted attention. As a teller of small fortunes, she makes just enough money to keep her wagon and the mule. For her, this life is much better than what she left behind. 

When Tao’s small fortune ends up something bigger, she has to accept two men accompanying her. An ex-mercenary and a reformed thief on a hunt to find a lost child tag along with Tao who is used to being alone. The group increases when a young baker and a magical cat join her. 

It’s almost too much for Tao to handle them all but maybe this is her chance to find the family she wanted! 

The story comes in Tao’s third-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

Cozy fantasies are easy reads as the books are usually shorter and don’t have intense stuff. The premise here sounded mellow yet adventurous, and the beautiful cover was enough to make me request the book. 

There’s no denying the cozy vibe despite the darkish themes. While the found family is the central theme, the book also deals with immigration, power battles, prejudice, war, privileged vs. poor, grief, and so on. These are woven into the plot and don’t feel off or deliberate. 

The lack of romance for the main character is actually a plus here. I’m relieved that there's no unwanted love track to mess up the MC’s arc. This is a book about friendship and found family. That’s where it stays (though there are a few undercurrents for the side characters). 

However, I do wish the main character’s arc was explored in a little more depth. Maybe coz it’s a cozy fantasy, many elements seem to get surface-level treatment. It works in some instances but not all the time. 

This would have been 4 stars if the world-building was more concrete. The whole thing is quite vague – countries that don’t like each other, past feuds, fragile peace, etc. However, I’m not sure about the religious aspect either. A place that’s called a church doesn’t sound like one and seems to have a mix of older gods as well. Then, there’s mistrust in those who don’t follow the Mother (and her Son). It gives partial Christian vibes, and I’m not sure if I got it right. 

The magical powers could also have been presented in more detail with a few scenes with other Mages, etc., showcasing how their talents work. The whole thing feels vaguely familiar but unknown. 

The last quarter picks up pace and also ups the entertainment level. This may or may not be for everyone as it feels like the resolutions are quick and easy. I liked it since that’s how the cozy element works. Things don’t escalate much and diffuse quickly. 

To summarize, The Teller of Small Fortunes is a heartwarming story about finding oneself, searching for a home, and making new friends. The narrative is slowish and sweet. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton (Hodderscape), for eARC. 

#NetGalley #TheTellerOfSmallFortunes

The Undoing of Violet Claybourne by Emily Critchley - Book Review

Publication Date: 07th Nov 2024

Genre: Dark Historical Drama (plus a short contemporary track) 

4.2 Stars 

One Liner: The second half is stronger; impactful 

1938, Old England 

Gillian Larkin doesn’t mind being unnoticed but it sure feels good to make friends with the new roommate at school. Violet Claybourne is lively, spirited, and an enigma. When she invites Gillian to her home, Thornleigh Hall, for Christmas, Gillian is overjoyed. She sees it as a chance to meet Violet’s older sisters, Emmi and Laura. 

However, her stay in their home changes her life in many ways. An accident on the extensive grounds brings forth some truths and betrayals. Gillian needs to make some decisions, that have long-lasting effects. What happened all those years ago? 

The story comes in Gillian’s first-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

I was curious when a book with the name Violet in the title chose to present the story from Gillian’s POV. However, soon, I realized why it was done. Gillian is the right narrator even if she is a pathetic friend.

The book begins in 1999 and quickly goes to 1938 where the majority of the events take place. There are a couple of time jumps afterward and complete the circle by ending the story in 1999. Having a single narrator for all of it works the best. No distractions or confusion. 

Initially, I thought I might like the narrator but in less than a few pages, I changed my opinion. There was a short scene that established her character and the next events solidified it. It was a little clue left for readers to guess. I like that! 

Despite seeing the others from one POV, we get a clear understanding of who they are. The characterization was great (even if I didn’t particularly like a certain move towards the end. Some people are inherently selfish and evil. There’s no need to create a reason to psychoanalyze their actions.)

It has quite a few themes like friendship, toxic relationships, selfishness, cowardliness, need for approval, class differences, etc. A few triggers too but nothing graphic. TWs are at the end but contain spoilers. 

The dark vibes were subtle but effective. The Hall and the estate added to the atmosphere and tension. In fact, the war backdrop kept the entire book in a sense of uncertainty. As we entered the second half, it felt like a key being tightened to its last point. 

However, the pacing in the first half was very slow. While it does set the stage and establish the characters, readers might feel bored or tired of anticipating the ‘incident’. Once it happened, the story picked up pace and sustained a steady momentum. I couldn’t stop reading after that. 

The writing was compelling. It was hard to not feel a jumble of emotions as the characters made decisions that showed their true colors. I wanted to hug poor Violet so many times! 

The ending made it a worthy read; satisfying in many ways. I did want a short epilogue from Violet’s POV. It would have been icing on the cake. 

To summarize, The Undoing of Violet Claybourne is a dark read with flawed yet well-etched characters. It will make you feel many things, so pick up the book when you want to think about the shadow side of human nature.  

Thank you, NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK (Zaffre), for eARC. 

#NetGalley #TheUndoingOfVioletClaybourne

***

TW: Death of a child (accident), alcoholism, OCD and possible ADHD, animal murder, sexual assault, infidelity (mentioned), and suicide (mentioned)

 

Grimm Curiosities by Sharon Lynn Fisher - Book Review

Publication Date: 05th Nov 2024

Genre: Gothic Historical Fiction, Romance, Paranormal 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: A pretty entertaining read 

1851, York 

Lizzy Grimm is struggling to save her family shop, Grimm Curiosities, afloat after her father’s demise and her mother’s ill health. 

One day in December, Antony Carlisle visits her shop, looking for help. Turns out, his younger sister suffers from the same affliction as Lizzy’s mother. They decide to work together to find the cause for it. With a stranger showing immense interest in certain rare books collected by Lizzy’s father, they are drawn into something darker and dangerous.

Can Lizzy and Antony find the answers to their questions and fight for their budding love? 

The story comes in Lizzy’s first-person POV with a few chapters from Antony’s (also in first-person) POV. 

My Thoughts: 

The book starts with a map and an author’s note explaining what certain names mean. This was helpful (ex: words ending with gate don’t have a gate but are something else). 

The beginning is a bit slow as it establishes the plot and the conflict. Slowly, it picks up pace as the drama intensifies. The book also deals a little about privilege, class differences, sexism, etc. 

The setting is quite atmospheric. The snowy and cold winter works well to create a sense of eeriness and melancholy, depending on the situation. The shop is easily my favorite part of the book. I would have loved to see more spookiness in there. 

Naturally, the book has many paranormal elements. The FMC knows about it, though she has a hard time correctly deciphering the clues. Can’t blame her much, though. She has a lot of pressure and practicalities to deal with. 

The MMC is a sweet guy (25yo); considerate and supportive but also tentative and not always assertive. This creates some drama in the love angle. Despite the ‘mystery’ this would be a romance book (clean stuff). 

The side characters aren’t fully developed but sometimes they shine better than the lead characters (especially Charlie and Isabel). Turns out one of them was based on a real-life person! In fact, quite a few elements in the book are taken from the real stuff. Read the note at the end to know the details. 

Despite the dark elements, the book would be categorized as a cozy read. It combines different lores and even has a Narnia touch. Some of it might go over the head if you aren’t into folklore and mythical creatures. 

The romance is understated and tentative. While I didn’t particularly feel it, the execution suited the characters. It aligns with their arcs, which is more important. There’s an epilogue and HEA. 

To summarize, Grimm Curiosities is an enjoyable read, combining folklore, paranormal, drama, and romance in a historical setting. It should be a good pick between intense books. 

Thank you, NetGalley and 47North, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #GrimmCuriosities

Murder in Verona by T.A. Williams - Book Review - Blog Tour

Series: Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries #9

Publication Date: 03rd Nov 2024

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/murderinverona

Goodreads Book Page: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215966823-murder-in-verona

Genre: Cozy Mystery

3.7 Stars

One Liner: Fun!

Book Blurb:

A tragic accident?

When Italy’s greatest opera singer, Rodolfo Argento, is killed in a terrible car accident, the police initially ruled his death a tragic accident or suicide. But his elderly mother, Violetta, believes this to be poppycock! Her son was a brilliant driver and had too much to live for. She suspects foul play and turns to Private Investigator, Dan Armstrong to discover the truth.

A cheating spouse?

So Dan and Oscar travel to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, to find out what really happened. There, Dan discovers Rodolfo’s private life could have come straight out of a Shakespeare play. Although now happily married, Rodolfo was a man with a reputation to rival Casanova, his past strewn with heartbroken women. Could his death have been a star-crossed lover determined to get revenge?

A family feud?

Or does the truth lie much closer to home? With his large inheritance still to be settled, the motive for Rodolfo’s murder could simply be greed. As Dan searches for suspects while staying at the Argento Opera Academy (where people randomly launch into operatic arias) life for Dan is complicated by the fact that Oscar has a habit of joining in with the singing…

Can Dan solve the case before he and his tone-deaf dog get thrown out?

***

My Thoughts:

The story comes in Dan’s first-person POV.

The ninth book in the series works as a standalone (and so do the previous books). However, you will enjoy it more if you read at least one of the earlier books.

This time, Dan and Oscar, along with Anna, go to Verona to enjoy an opera show and solve a crime. Dan is not a fan of opera nor does he know anything about it. Will he be a convert by the end of the book?

Oscar meets another black Lab, Elektra, and falls in love. Of course, he still has his priorities right – food comes first; always!

The mystery is decent but doesn’t have the same tension as some of the previous ones. Of course, each case is different, so we can’t really compare. This one is on the slower side with a lot of questioning and trying to find the clues (makes sense since the death occurred almost a month prior).

However, it took me a while to guess the killer, so that’s good. I was weighing my options when a certain detail made me wonder and connect the dots.

As always, we get a tour of the region, though this time, it’s not much. Dan spends his time on the case, so there isn’t much left for exploring. But… there is enough food and gelato to make you happy!

A few interesting themes are addressed using the plot and the characters. While there are quite a few suspects/ characters involved, it is easy to track them. Some of them have strong personalities.

To summarize, Murder in Verona is another entertaining installment in the series and might appeal even more to opera fans (as it mentions quite a few leading singers and tracks).

Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources and Boldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley

***

About the Author – T.A. Williams

I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely writing romance and whodunnits. Romantic comedies are what we all need from time to time. Life isn’t always very fair. It isn’t always a lot of fun, but when it is, we need to embrace it. Murder mystery is all very well, but it needs to put a smile on your face, so that's why I like to inject some humour.

Follow the Author:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrevorWilliamsBooks/

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/TAWilliamsBooks

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/TAWilliamsNews

Bookbub Profile: @trevorwilliams3

***

This has been a stop on the #MurderInVerona blog tour by Rachel's Random Resources. (@rararesources) Thanks for stopping by! 

Winterfrost Market by Jenny Sandiford - Book Review

Series: Tales of Midwinter Haven #1

Publication Date: 24th Oct 2024 

Genre: Cozy Fantasy Romance 

3.5 Stars 

One Liner: Sweet enough but needs more

The Winterfrost Market is famous for its Midwinter celebrations. Elsie, her sister, and their mother set up their cozy traveling tea house in the town. However, Elsie’s mom goes north to Midwinter Haven for some rare spices. The place is filled with fae, vampires, witches, elves, and other magical creatures, deemed dangerous by humans. When she doesn’t return, Elsie worries and decides to search for her. She hires a grumpy tracker to take her northward. 

Kit isn’t really a tracker but he sure knows his way to Midwinter Haven. However, he has his own reasons for letting Elsie accompany him. As a few secrets come out, Elsie and Kit may have to decide what they want, while trying to find more about her mother. 

The story comes in Elsie and Kit’s third-person POVs.

My Thoughts: 

Well, cozy fantasies are a thing now, and the cover is adorable. Naturally, I had to grab this one. Though the stakes seem a bit high, the overall vibe is cozy and easy. 

The premise is great. We have intrigue, adventure, danger, royals, magic, and whatnot! However, there isn’t enough detail to make the setting come alive as it should. 

I appreciate the inclusion of a map at the beginning. It was helpful. But a map doesn’t negate the need for better world-building. While we get basic details, the writing relies on the assumption that readers would know what it means. This may not work for everyone. 

The dual POV certainly helps since we get both backstories in parallel. However, many elements are missing. It’s all surface-level, so there isn’t enough emotion to fully connect with the characters' feelings or to support their actions. 

The pacing is great. However, this is an advantage and disadvantage. The story flows fast, which keeps the tempo steady. Yet, we don’t have the time to immerse into the setting or empathize with the varied emotions the characters feel. 

Though the book is the first in the series and a standalone, it needed to be longer and more detailed. (It still is standalone but with missing elements).

It’s a bit of insta-love if we consider the timeline. Since the banter isn’t great, the ‘love’ aspect doesn’t really shine. The lack of steam (this is a clean romance) works in its favor.

The side characters are quite cool. I hope they’ll be more fleshed out (along with the world-building) in the coming books. Taking time with the descriptions and dialogues might be helpful. 

To summarize, Winterfrost Market is a decent and enjoyable read if you want something light and magical. It should be a good palate cleanser between heavy reads. Can pretty much finish the book in a single sitting. 

Thank you, NetGalley, Velikor Publishing, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, for eARC. 

#NetGalley #WinterfrostMarket

Death Comes at Christmas by Marie O'Regan - Book Review

Publication Date: 22nd Oct 2024

Genre: Mystery, Short Story Anthology (Multi-author)

3.7 Stars

One Liner: An eclectic collection

The book begins with an introduction by the editors. It helped adjust my expectations as I thought this would be a murder mystery. While the stories do have ‘death’ in some form, the approach is varied and left to the author’s perspective. The settings are also varied – historical, contemporary, countryside, city, India, UK, Ireland, etc. Some stories are stronger than others, which is to be expected in an anthology.

As always, I rated each story individually with comments written after reading the piece.

How to Commit Murder in a Bookshop by C. L. Taylor – 3.5 Stars

What happens during a Christmas party at a bookstore? This is an interesting piece with a bit of chuckle and dry humor. The approach to murder is definitely different from what’s expected. A decent start to the collection.

Christmas Yet To Come by Helen Fields – 4 Stars

Set in 1898, the story deals with a pompous but clever businessman and his Christmas dinner. It is easy enough to guess the events but the writing keeps you hooked.

What She Left Me by Tina Baker – 4 Stars

The protag arrives at her childhood home after her mother’s death before Christmas. There’s a lot of trauma and grief to process. However, there also seems to be something else she needs to do. A heavy story where death features prominently and a reveal that may or may not be resolved. Though this is not a mystery, I rate it high for the narration.

The Red Angel by Russ Thomas – 4 Stars

Gary and his girlfriend end up driving back home in a blizzard. Their arguments have soured things between them but the couple has a major concern to deal with when they are stranded in the middle of nowhere. Presented in Gary’s third-person POV, the plot builds slowly and reaches the final high. Though it is easy to predict for the fans of this genre, the setting is atmospheric and the narration gripping.

O Murder Night by J. T. Ellison – 3.5 Stars

The Edge House has a history, one, Yeats, the new owner, wants to use it to raise funds for renovation. However, when tragedy strikes, the mystery may remain unsolved forever. This is historical fiction set in Ireland. It is atmospheric and dark.

Christmas Lights by David Bell – 3.5 Stars

This is a painful read of what a parent goes through when their kidnapped child doesn’t return for years. While it is not a mystery, it has death, so fits the anthology (according to the foreword).

(TW: kidnapped child)

The Midnight Mass Murderer by Alexandra Benedict – 4 Stars

Sean takes his aunt/ mom Edie to a small town to help solve a case. Edie is known for her puzzle-solving talent and helped many investigations. Can she crack this one too? How will this Christmas end? A proper murder mystery with clues, police, and some deaths. I’ll have to check if the Edie is part of any series. Would love to read more books with her.

The Wrong Party by Claire McGowan – 4 Stars

This is a short and funny dangerous story about a Christmas party and something that goes wrong. Not much detail or backstory but it is not necessary. The writing has a humorous note, which lightens up the story and turns it into a semi-farce.

Upon a Midnight Clear by Tom Mead – 3 Stars

This is a standalone mystery with the lead detective, Joseph Spector, who has a mystery series to his name. The historical setting, the possibility of a ghost, and the Christmas party are well done. However, due to the word limit, I believe, the info dump at the end is too much. I’ll check out the series, though.

Last Christmas by Fiona Cummins – 3.5 Stars

A widowed woman, her daughter, and teeny granddaughter go to their family’s favorite hotel for Christmas to follow the same tradition. However, this one leads to interesting developments. A nice story with a mellowed narration; suits the main character.

The Naughty List by Sam Carrington – 4 Stars

Joseph Snow gets an email about being on the Naughty List. Is it a prank, scam, or something sinister? This is more of a thriller than a cozy mystery. It sustains the suspense with enough tension and delivers a strong ending.

Indian Winter by Vaseem Khan – 4 Stars

A classic locked room mystery featuring Inspector Persis Wadia of the Malabar House series (I need to read it). How did the sixty-year-old Harriet die in a locked room? Who killed her, and why? The mystery is kept simple which works for the word count. The writing style is fun to read.

Postmarked Murder by Susi Holliday – 3.5 Stars

What happens when a Christmas card comes with something extra? Tilly knows what it is but she has some decisions to make. Well, I like the story and the tone, though I wanted a little more at the end.

Frostbite by Samantha Hayes – 4 Stars

Snow, isolated cabin, and a blood trial do make a good start for this genre. Ellen might just find something after all! Well! Another thriller-ish story with death during Christmas. The themes are predictable but I like the ending.

A Deadly Gift by Angela Clarke – 4 Stars

A locked room mystery where Miriam has to solve the case before she gets arrested. The progress is slow but steady with teeny bits of chuckles thrown into the mix. And there’s a surprise too! Really enjoyed this one.

Secret Santa by Liz Mistry – 4 Stars

What happens when Gary’s determination to not mess up the Secret Santa gift brings more trouble? Told from Gary’s third-person POV, we see a range of emotions and thoughts, leading to the finale. This reads like a semi-thriller. A good one.

Marley’s Ghost by Sarah Hilary – 4 Stars

Ninna and Kim go to visit her family for Christmas. It sure would be fun. Right? This is a twisty story but also straightforward. It rests on Ninna’s shoulders and Kim’s eyes. I like it.

Icarus by Belinda Bauer – 2 Stars

A super short story about a statue and toxic relationships. This was too short to feel anything for anyone. Wonder why they put this at the end.

To summarize, Death Comes at Christmas combines cozy mystery, suspense, thriller, and slow-burn narratives to create a collection of stories where a death occurs during Christmas. Not all of them have a resolution. Read no more than one or two per day to get the maximum enjoyment out of the book.

The rating averaged 3.69, a decent number for an anthology with as many stories. The author bios are provided at the end.

Thank you, Edelweiss+ and Titan Books, for eARC.