Quick Review

“Where the Dead Lie” grips readers with a haunting mystery set in Regency London. Sebastian St. Cyr, Viscount Devlin, faces shocking evil as he investigates a series of brutal child murders. With women and children as victims, the story unveils society’s dark underbelly. As Sebastian pursues justice, readers are in for a tense and emotional journey.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Gripping mystery with emotional depth.
• Intriguing character development and relationships.
• Rich historical detail enhances the setting.

➖Cons:

• Disturbing themes may be challenging for some readers.
• Certain plot threads left unresolved for future installments.

Quick Review

The One Memory of Flora Banks is a gripping young adult novel. It explores the life of Flora, who suffers from anterograde amnesia. Her only recall is from childhood. When she kisses a boy, she remembers something for the first time in years. This sparks a journey of self-discovery and bravery.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Unique narrative style reflecting Flora’s condition.
• Strong character development, especially Flora’s journey.
• Engaging and emotional plot twists.

➖Cons:

• Repetitive elements can feel tedious at times.
• Some characters are underdeveloped or unlikeable.

Quick Review

Are You Sleeping by Kathleen Barber is a gripping psychological thriller that dives into family secrets.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Captivating dual narration with podcast excerpts and social media threads.
• Multi-dimensional characters that reflect real familial dynamics.
• Fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

➖Cons:

• Some predictable plot twists and character decisions.
• Resonance with similar themes in other recent psychological thrillers.

Quick Review

“Masterminds: Payback” concludes Gordon Korman’s thrilling trilogy. The story captures four kids cloned from criminal masterminds. Betrayal leads them on a dangerous journey filled with suspense. They must find their origins while dealing with their new identities. Ultimately, it’s an exciting and satisfying conclusion to the series.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Engaging characters with unique backgrounds.
• Fast-paced and unpredictable plot with many twists.
• Satisfying conclusion to a well-written trilogy.

➖Cons:

• The simplified storytelling might not appeal to all readers.
• Some readers found the ending somewhat anticlimactic.

Quick Review

In “The Trapped Girl,” detective Tracy Crosswhite faces a chilling case. A woman’s body is found in a crab pot. Tracy uncovers a web of deception, betrayal, and a potential hidden identity. As old wounds resurface, the tension escalates, culminating in a gripping climax.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Engaging and complex mystery plot with many twists.
• Well-developed characters with strong relationships.
• Gripping narrative that keeps readers on edge.

➖Cons:

• Some aspects of the plot may feel predictable.
• Not as strong in character development compared to earlier books.

Quick Review

The Guests on South Battery by Karen White is a captivating blend of paranormal mystery and southern charm. Melanie Trenholm returns to work after maternity leave, but ghostly encounters await her. New client Jayne Smith wants to sell her inherited home, but ancient secrets begin to unravel. With its engaging characters and haunting atmosphere, this book is a delightful addition to the Tradd Street series.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Charming southern atmosphere
• Engaging supernatural elements
• Compelling character development
• Strong family dynamics
• Intriguing plot twists

➖Cons:

• Pacing issues in the middle
• Some predictable plot points

Quick Review

City of Saints & Thieves by Natalie C. Anderson is a gripping young adult thriller.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Richly detailed setting of Kenya and Congo.
• Strong character development, particularly of Tina.
• Engaging and fast-paced plot with twists.

➖Cons:

• The mystery aspect lacks suspense at times.
• The romance subplot feels somewhat unnecessary.

Quick Review

Here Lies Daniel Tate is a spine-tingling mystery thriller. It follows a con artist impersonating a lost boy. The story explores themes of identity, family secrets, and survival. Terrill masterfully keeps readers questioning the truth. This gripping tale unveils shocking twists and emotional depth.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Intriguing premise with a clever con artist.
• Strong character development throughout the story.
• Captivating writing style that keeps you engaged.
• Unpredictable twists that keep readers guessing.
• Realistic portrayal of family dynamics and secrets.

➖Cons:

• Lack of chapters might be frustrating for some readers.
• Ending may leave some readers wanting more closure.