Herrick’s End by T. M. Blanchet My rating: 4 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Herrick’s End in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Herrick’s End by T. M. Blanchet is an intriguing fantasy novel that delves into a mysterious and eerie underworld. The Details Blanchet excels at creating a haunting and vividly detailed setting. Herrick’s End is brought to life with rich descriptions that evoke a sense of dread and wonder, immersing readers in its eerie ambiance. Furthermore, the protagonist, Ollie, is a relatable and well-rounded protagonist. His determination, vulnerability, and growth…
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This Vicious Grace
This Vicious Grace by Emily Thiede My rating: 3 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of This Vicious Grace in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist This Vicious Grace introduces us to Alessa, a young woman with a powerful but dangerous gift meant to protect her people. The Details The novel presents a unique magic system centered around Alessa’s gift and her role as a Finestra. This concept is fresh and adds an interesting dynamic to the story. Thiede crafts a vibrant and detailed world with its own customs, politics, and history. The setting…
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The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare
The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare by Kimberly Brock My rating: 3 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare weaves a tale of mystery and historical fiction, drawing from the legendary lost colony of Roanoke. The narrative follows Alice, a descendant of Eleanor Dare, as she unearths family secrets and a mysterious book linked to her ancestors. The story intertwines past and present, exploring themes of legacy, memory, and the enduring impact of history. The…
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Her Darkest Secret
Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch My rating: 4 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Her Darkest Secret in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch is a riveting and emotionally charged suspense novel that delves into the complexities of trauma, memory, and the quest for justice. Patch, known for her gripping storytelling and nuanced character development, delivers a page-turner that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. The Details The novel follows the story of FBI Special Agent Fiona Kelly,…
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River of Ashes
River of Ashes by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor My rating: 5 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of River of Ashes in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **Trigger Warning: contains rape, violence, and psychopath POV** The Gist River of Ashes by Alexandrea Weis and Lucas Astor is a dark and gripping thriller that delves into the sinister undercurrents of a small Louisiana town. With its compelling characters, atmospheric setting, and chilling narrative, this novel offers a haunting exploration of evil and obsession. The Details River of Ashes centers on the mysterious and macabre happenings…
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Number One Fan
Number One Fane by Meg Elison My rating: 1 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Number One Fan in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Number One Fan by Meg Elison, while ambitious in its themes and intent, ultimately falls short in execution, leaving readers with a sense of unfulfilled potential. The novel’s premise—a successful author kidnapped by an obsessed fan—promises a thrilling exploration of the dark side of fandom, but the delivery is marred by several critical flaws. The Details Firstly, the characters lack depth and nuance. Eli Grey, the protagonist, is…
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Little Eve
Little Eve by Catriona Ward My rating: 1 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Little Eve in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Little Eve by Catriona Ward is a novel that promises much but ultimately falls short in its execution. While the premise of the story is intriguing – a gothic horror set in a remote Scottish village – the novel struggles to deliver on its potential, leaving readers feeling disappointed and unsatisfied. The Details One of the main issues with Little Eve is its pacing. The narrative unfolds at a glacial…
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The Poison Season
The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford My rating: 4 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Poison Season in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist The Poison Season by Mara Rutherford is a captivating blend of fantasy and romance, set in a lush and perilous. Rutherford, known for her ability to weave intricate tales with strong, relatable characters, does not disappoint in this latest offering. The Details The story centers on the island of Endla, a place shrouded in enchantment and menace. The island’s inhabitants possess a unique power tied to the poison…
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The Opportunist
The Opportunist by Elyse Friedman My rating: 3 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of The Opportunist in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Elyse Friedman’s The Opportunist is a darkly comedic and sharply observant novel that dives into the complexities of family dynamics, deceit, and ambition. Set against the backdrop of contemporary life, this novel explores how far people will go to secure their fortunes and the hidden costs of opportunism. The Details The story centers on Alana Shropshire, a struggling artist who becomes embroiled in a morally dubious scheme involving her wealthy…
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Sometimes People Die
Sometimes People Die by Simon Stephenson My rating: 4 of 5 stars Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Sometimes People Die in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The Gist Simon Stephenson’s Sometimes People Die is a thought-provoking and haunting novel that masterfully blends elements of mystery, medical drama, and philosophical reflection. Set in a beleaguered hospital in London, the book provides a gripping and unsettling look at life and death through the eyes of a young doctor navigating a series of unexpected and suspicious patient deaths. The Details Stephenson provides a critical look at the systemic issues…