When Matthew lost his job in Connecticut and they almost lost their home, he, Ellie and the children moved across the ocean to Wales, to Matt's mum's When Matthew lost his job in Connecticut and they almost lost their home, he, Ellie and the children moved across the ocean to Wales, to Matt's mum's place on Bluebell Lane in the small village of Llandrigg. Gwen had been running her B&B on her own, since David had died twenty years ago, and the building was old and tired. A renovation of their old home would be work for Matt and Ellie, they'd all be company for Gwen, and the new B&B would flourish.
But things didn't go according to plan. Jess, their eldest daughter at thirteen, hated everything - school; Wales; leaving her best friend Chloe; even her parents. Ben was fine, boys usually were, playing soccer - or football as it was called in Wales. Josh was quiet, didn't say a lot, and four year old Ava was up and down with her moods. Then there was Ellie and Gwen. The tension was high between them, and although they both wanted it to be friendly, their relationship needed some work. While Matt started pulling things to pieces in the four guest rooms. A recipe for disaster perhaps? Ellie was tired, Matt was mentally absent, the children were mostly unhappy and there was something up with Gwen...
The Inn on Bluebell Lane is the 1st in The Inn on Bluebell Lane series by Kate Hewitt and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm glad it's the start to a new series! It's well written, with everything described being something that happens to most families when they move a big distance from all they've known. I liked the characters, especially Ellie and Gwen, and look forward very much to the next episode in the series. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
When Matthew lost his job in Connecticut and they almost lost their home, he, Ellie and the children moved across the ocean to Wales, to Matt's mum's place on Bluebell Lane in the small village of Llandrigg. Gwen had been running her B&B on her own, since David had died twenty years ago, and the building was old and tired. A renovation of their old home would be work for Matt and Ellie, they'd all be company for Gwen, and the new B&B would flourish.
But things didn't go according to plan. Jess, their eldest daughter at thirteen, hated everything - school; Wales; leaving her best friend Chloe; even her parents. Ben was fine, boys usually were, playing soccer - or football as it was called in Wales. Josh was quiet, didn't say a lot, and four year old Ava was up and down with her moods. Then there was Ellie and Gwen. The tension was high between them, and although they both wanted it to be friendly, their relationship needed some work. While Matt started pulling things to pieces in the four guest rooms. A recipe for disaster perhaps? Ellie was tired, Matt was mentally absent, the children were mostly unhappy and there was something up with Gwen...
The Inn on Bluebell Lane is the 1st in The Inn on Bluebell Lane series by Kate Hewitt and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I'm glad it's the start to a new series! It's well written, with everything described being something that happens to most families when they move a big distance from all they've known. I liked the characters, especially Ellie and Gwen, and look forward very much to the next episode in the series. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
When Kitty Underhay’s grandmother left to attend to a sick relative, she had hired ex-Army Captain, Matthew Bryant as security for the Dolphin Hotel, When Kitty Underhay’s grandmother left to attend to a sick relative, she had hired ex-Army Captain, Matthew Bryant as security for the Dolphin Hotel, and to make sure Kitty herself was safe. Grams knew more than she had let on to Matt; she was worried for Kitty, wishing she hadn’t had to leave. But needs must, and Kitty was an independent young woman, happy to oversee the hotel that had been her home for as long as she could remember. Kitty had acquired the services of a Chicago jazz singer who was in London and had some spare time before heading back to the United States. Kitty’s preparation for the upcoming two weeks, plus keeping the guests happy and accommodated would certainly keep her busy.
But things began going wrong – a murder occurred; some of the guests’ rooms were broken into, including Kitty’s own room. No one could work out what was happening and why. Between Matt, Kitty and Inspector Greville, progress was made, albeit slowly. Kitty’s bafflement at what certain people were after brought sad memories of her mother who had gone missing when Kitty was six. She only had mementos left of the mother she barely remembered and couldn’t comprehend the motive. But it was obvious Kitty was in danger when more murders occurred…
Murder at the Dolphin Hotel is the 1st in A Miss Underhay Mystery series, a historical mystery novel set in 1933 England. The pace was fast, my interest nonstop and there was plenty of action – an excellent whodunit that I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
When Kitty Underhay’s grandmother left to attend to a sick relative, she had hired ex-Army Captain, Matthew Bryant as security for the Dolphin Hotel, and to make sure Kitty herself was safe. Grams knew more than she had let on to Matt; she was worried for Kitty, wishing she hadn’t had to leave. But needs must, and Kitty was an independent young woman, happy to oversee the hotel that had been her home for as long as she could remember. Kitty had acquired the services of a Chicago jazz singer who was in London and had some spare time before heading back to the United States. Kitty’s preparation for the upcoming two weeks, plus keeping the guests happy and accommodated would certainly keep her busy.
But things began going wrong – a murder occurred; some of the guests’ rooms were broken into, including Kitty’s own room. No one could work out what was happening and why. Between Matt, Kitty and Inspector Greville, progress was made, albeit slowly. Kitty’s bafflement at what certain people were after brought sad memories of her mother who had gone missing when Kitty was six. She only had mementos left of the mother she barely remembered and couldn’t comprehend the motive. But it was obvious Kitty was in danger when more murders occurred…
Murder at the Dolphin Hotel is the 1st in A Miss Underhay Mystery series, a historical mystery novel set in 1933 England. The pace was fast, my interest nonstop and there was plenty of action – an excellent whodunit that I thoroughly enjoyed and recommend highly.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Well!! This would have to be the best psychological thriller I’ve read in a long time!
Dr Nadine Finch had been called in to create a profile on the kWell!! This would have to be the best psychological thriller I’ve read in a long time!
Dr Nadine Finch had been called in to create a profile on the killer in the latest murders along the Florida coastline, two murders of a young couple, joined together in eternity by a rope. But the horror Nadine felt wasn’t just at the senseless deaths of these two people; the familiarity of the crime took her back to her childhood in a terrifying fashion. But Nadine’s mother was on death row, unable to hurt anyone anymore…
Detective Clint Demko was newly arrived in the area and when he and Nadine partnered to solve the case, neither told the other of their pasts. Nadine was used to trusting no one – no reason why she would change now. But when another two bodies were found, the alarming similarities shocked Nadine to her core. Much as she didn’t want to, she obtained permission to visit her mother – Nadine hoped she would give her some answers. But nothing had changed – evil, sadistic, rotten to the core. Nadine wasn’t sure why she’d bothered.
When Nadine’s home was targeted, the FBI were finally called in. What would be the outcome in this deadly dance? More bodies – she needed answers! Her profile was so close…
A Killer’s Daughter is the 1st in the Nadine Finch series by Jenna Kernan and it was brilliant!! I had the perpetrator picked early – but I was wrong. My 2nd guess was also wrong! When the reveal came, I was shocked! I hadn’t seen that coming. Although almost 400 pages in length, I flew through them with twists, chills, suspicions – what an excellent psychological thriller! Looking forward to #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Well!! This would have to be the best psychological thriller I’ve read in a long time!
Dr Nadine Finch had been called in to create a profile on the killer in the latest murders along the Florida coastline, two murders of a young couple, joined together in eternity by a rope. But the horror Nadine felt wasn’t just at the senseless deaths of these two people; the familiarity of the crime took her back to her childhood in a terrifying fashion. But Nadine’s mother was on death row, unable to hurt anyone anymore…
Detective Clint Demko was newly arrived in the area and when he and Nadine partnered to solve the case, neither told the other of their pasts. Nadine was used to trusting no one – no reason why she would change now. But when another two bodies were found, the alarming similarities shocked Nadine to her core. Much as she didn’t want to, she obtained permission to visit her mother – Nadine hoped she would give her some answers. But nothing had changed – evil, sadistic, rotten to the core. Nadine wasn’t sure why she’d bothered.
When Nadine’s home was targeted, the FBI were finally called in. What would be the outcome in this deadly dance? More bodies – she needed answers! Her profile was so close…
A Killer’s Daughter is the 1st in the Nadine Finch series by Jenna Kernan and it was brilliant!! I had the perpetrator picked early – but I was wrong. My 2nd guess was also wrong! When the reveal came, I was shocked! I hadn’t seen that coming. Although almost 400 pages in length, I flew through them with twists, chills, suspicions – what an excellent psychological thriller! Looking forward to #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Twenty years after her parents were murdered, with her sixteen-year-old self finding their bodies, Nikki Hunt was a Special Agent for the FBI. She hadTwenty years after her parents were murdered, with her sixteen-year-old self finding their bodies, Nikki Hunt was a Special Agent for the FBI. She had never returned to Stillwater, Minnesota, the hometown she’d left as soon as she was able. Now, with two teenagers’ bodies having been found frozen in the snow, Nikki had been called on to help find the killer. The eeriness of her return wasn’t lost on her, and when she found the media bringing back her parent’s murders, Nikki was frustrated, determined to stay on track with the current murders.
When another young woman’s body was found, Nikki knew they were running out of time. But things were escalating, and the danger was multiplying. Would Nikki and her team find the killer? And was there any connection to her long ago past?
The Girls in the Snow is the first in the Nikki Hunt series by Stacy Green and it’s gritty, filled with tension, and riveting! Just like all I’ve read before by this author! And although it’s been awhile since I’ve read any of her work, I’ll definitely be continuing with this series. Nikki is a great character and her daughter, five-year-old Lacey, is adorable. A thoroughly enjoyable crime thriller which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Twenty years after her parents were murdered, with her sixteen-year-old self finding their bodies, Nikki Hunt was a Special Agent for the FBI. She had never returned to Stillwater, Minnesota, the hometown she’d left as soon as she was able. Now, with two teenagers’ bodies having been found frozen in the snow, Nikki had been called on to help find the killer. The eeriness of her return wasn’t lost on her, and when she found the media bringing back her parent’s murders, Nikki was frustrated, determined to stay on track with the current murders.
When another young woman’s body was found, Nikki knew they were running out of time. But things were escalating, and the danger was multiplying. Would Nikki and her team find the killer? And was there any connection to her long ago past?
The Girls in the Snow is the first in the Nikki Hunt series by Stacy Green and it’s gritty, filled with tension, and riveting! Just like all I’ve read before by this author! And although it’s been awhile since I’ve read any of her work, I’ll definitely be continuing with this series. Nikki is a great character and her daughter, five-year-old Lacey, is adorable. A thoroughly enjoyable crime thriller which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Sixteen-year-old Adriadne Valencourt and her twin brother Adrian had snuck out from their home, to watch the events as they happened. It was December Sixteen-year-old Adriadne Valencourt and her twin brother Adrian had snuck out from their home, to watch the events as they happened. It was December 1773 and what would become known as the Boston Tea Party was about to unfold. Addie and Ad both knew that their brother Justin and friend Silas would be involved in the cause of the Rebels against the British, and although excited, they knew they couldn’t tell their father Marcus as he was a staunch Loyalist.
When Justin, Silas and Ad left home to fight, then her brother Quentin ran off to join them, Marcus was distraught. He loved his sons but couldn’t understand their choices. Meanwhile Addie and Justin’s wife Sarah, nurse the injured soldiers in their home. Tulliah, their housekeeper of many years, worked by their side while Mary, Marcus’ wife, was once again with child. Boston was a shambles, food was becoming scarce and it was becoming dangerous to remain at home. What would happen to the divided family? To the boys off fighting for what they believed in?
America’s Daughter is the 1st in the America’s Daughter Trilogy by Celeste De Blasis and my suggestion is do not read the blurb for this book, as it seems that events in future books are covered. There are big spoilers in the blurb, and there are things that do not happen in this first book. I think the publisher has posted a blurb that covers the entire trilogy! I found that although there are a lot of characters and a lot of historical information (almost like being back at school in a history lesson) I enjoyed the human side of the story. Addie is a remarkable character, strong and independent as are several characters who surround her. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Sixteen-year-old Adriadne Valencourt and her twin brother Adrian had snuck out from their home, to watch the events as they happened. It was December 1773 and what would become known as the Boston Tea Party was about to unfold. Addie and Ad both knew that their brother Justin and friend Silas would be involved in the cause of the Rebels against the British, and although excited, they knew they couldn’t tell their father Marcus as he was a staunch Loyalist.
When Justin, Silas and Ad left home to fight, then her brother Quentin ran off to join them, Marcus was distraught. He loved his sons but couldn’t understand their choices. Meanwhile Addie and Justin’s wife Sarah, nurse the injured soldiers in their home. Tulliah, their housekeeper of many years, worked by their side while Mary, Marcus’ wife, was once again with child. Boston was a shambles, food was becoming scarce and it was becoming dangerous to remain at home. What would happen to the divided family? To the boys off fighting for what they believed in?
America’s Daughter is the 1st in the America’s Daughter Trilogy by Celeste De Blasis and my suggestion is do not read the blurb for this book, as it seems that events in future books are covered. There are big spoilers in the blurb, and there are things that do not happen in this first book. I think the publisher has posted a blurb that covers the entire trilogy! I found that although there are a lot of characters and a lot of historical information (almost like being back at school in a history lesson) I enjoyed the human side of the story. Addie is a remarkable character, strong and independent as are several characters who surround her. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Detective Megan Thomas had spent four years undercover and the trauma meant she was now divorced and seeing a psychologist to help her face her past. Detective Megan Thomas had spent four years undercover and the trauma meant she was now divorced and seeing a psychologist to help her face her past. She had moved from London to Devon to join a new station; to gain some peace of mind, but her first day on the job jolted her so much that Megan wondered if she could ever do this again. Megan’s fear kept her awake at night; it came to her when she least expected it. Could she push through it? If she didn’t it would mean he'd won…
With a body found in a septic tank on the property of a well-known personality, then a fourteen-year-old girl alleging she’d been raped but couldn’t or wouldn’t name the perpetrator, Megan felt frustrated. But when her DCI told Megan she wanted her off the rape case as she was too involved, her faith in herself was once again shaken. Would Megan find the answers she needed; help her team to put away the criminals they were chasing?
Damage Done (with the title now changed to Buried Deep) is the 1st in a new series – Detective Megan Thomas – by Susan Wilkins and I thoroughly enjoyed it. With two cases running concurrently, they were easy to keep track of and with the gradual release of clues and snippets of evidence, the suspense and mystery slowly cleared. A great start to a new series which I’m sure I’ll continue. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Detective Megan Thomas had spent four years undercover and the trauma meant she was now divorced and seeing a psychologist to help her face her past. She had moved from London to Devon to join a new station; to gain some peace of mind, but her first day on the job jolted her so much that Megan wondered if she could ever do this again. Megan’s fear kept her awake at night; it came to her when she least expected it. Could she push through it? If she didn’t it would mean he'd won…
With a body found in a septic tank on the property of a well-known personality, then a fourteen-year-old girl alleging she’d been raped but couldn’t or wouldn’t name the perpetrator, Megan felt frustrated. But when her DCI told Megan she wanted her off the rape case as she was too involved, her faith in herself was once again shaken. Would Megan find the answers she needed; help her team to put away the criminals they were chasing?
Damage Done (with the title now changed to Buried Deep) is the 1st in a new series – Detective Megan Thomas – by Susan Wilkins and I thoroughly enjoyed it. With two cases running concurrently, they were easy to keep track of and with the gradual release of clues and snippets of evidence, the suspense and mystery slowly cleared. A great start to a new series which I’m sure I’ll continue. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Annie Reynolds and her two siblings were devastated when their father died, but it was the brief words he said to Annie just before he passed that chaAnnie Reynolds and her two siblings were devastated when their father died, but it was the brief words he said to Annie just before he passed that changed everything she'd thought about her life. The letter she found in her father's desk, as directed by him, sent her to Tuscany, to the beautiful Villa Rosa, which had been deserted since not long after the war. Annie felt like she'd come home - but the presence of another person, who said the Villa Rosa was his inheritance, stirred feelings of resistance in Annie. Her father had told her the Villa Rosa was hers, now it seemed like she had to prove it...
Tuscany in 1944, and the Nazis had taken over. The villagers were starving as the Germans took most of the food, and whenever the partisans attacked German strongholds, the reprisals on the villagers was horrendous. Contessa Evelina Messina owned the magnificent Villa Rosa with Cara as her secretary, plus a cook and gardener lived in. But her son Raf was a partisan, running the groups in the hills and mountains, while his mother had no idea. And when she took a German in as her lover, she was shunned by all.
What would Annie discover about the past? Her searching was arduous, and nothing seemed to come to the surface. Would she give up and head back to her home in America? Or would she find the truth, unpalatable though it may be?
An Italian Secret is the 1st in the Daughters of Italy series by Aussie author Ella Carey and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Excellent characters, great pacing, both heartwarming and heartbreaking scenes - I love this author's work, and this one is no exception. Looking forward to #2 already! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Annie Reynolds and her two siblings were devastated when their father died, but it was the brief words he said to Annie just before he passed that changed everything she'd thought about her life. The letter she found in her father's desk, as directed by him, sent her to Tuscany, to the beautiful Villa Rosa, which had been deserted since not long after the war. Annie felt like she'd come home - but the presence of another person, who said the Villa Rosa was his inheritance, stirred feelings of resistance in Annie. Her father had told her the Villa Rosa was hers, now it seemed like she had to prove it...
Tuscany in 1944, and the Nazis had taken over. The villagers were starving as the Germans took most of the food, and whenever the partisans attacked German strongholds, the reprisals on the villagers was horrendous. Contessa Evelina Messina owned the magnificent Villa Rosa with Cara as her secretary, plus a cook and gardener lived in. But her son Raf was a partisan, running the groups in the hills and mountains, while his mother had no idea. And when she took a German in as her lover, she was shunned by all.
What would Annie discover about the past? Her searching was arduous, and nothing seemed to come to the surface. Would she give up and head back to her home in America? Or would she find the truth, unpalatable though it may be?
An Italian Secret is the 1st in the Daughters of Italy series by Aussie author Ella Carey and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Excellent characters, great pacing, both heartwarming and heartbreaking scenes - I love this author's work, and this one is no exception. Looking forward to #2 already! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Detective Lauren Pengelly's leave was cut short when some children discovered human bones in the grounds of an abandoned building, and Detective Matt Detective Lauren Pengelly's leave was cut short when some children discovered human bones in the grounds of an abandoned building, and Detective Matt Price, Lauren's new 2IC, was first on the scene. While waiting for forensics to arrive, investigations began. Learning the bones were of a woman, and were approximately 20 years old, Lauren and her team at the Penzance Police Station swept into action. But when they received the call to say a three year old girl had vanished from a childcare nursery, the horror trickled down their spines - a cop's worst nightmare had begun.
With the two cases running side by side, the search for little Isla was paramount. But she was nowhere to be found, and when a second child - three year old Violet - also vanished from a different childcare nursery, panic set in. Lauren and Matt knew the first few hours were vital, but soon it was forty eight hours and they had no clues. Would they find the children before it was too late? And would they identify the bones that had been discovered?
The Lost Girls of Penzance is the 1st in the Cornwall Murder Mystery series by Sally Rigby and it was excellent. A fast paced police procedural with a spiky, no-holds-barred boss, combined with a new Detective who had trouble handling anything in the morgue, and Lauren's talented team working their places, The Lost Girls of Penzance is one I recommend highly. I'm already looking forward to book #2.
With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Detective Lauren Pengelly's leave was cut short when some children discovered human bones in the grounds of an abandoned building, and Detective Matt Price, Lauren's new 2IC, was first on the scene. While waiting for forensics to arrive, investigations began. Learning the bones were of a woman, and were approximately 20 years old, Lauren and her team at the Penzance Police Station swept into action. But when they received the call to say a three year old girl had vanished from a childcare nursery, the horror trickled down their spines - a cop's worst nightmare had begun.
With the two cases running side by side, the search for little Isla was paramount. But she was nowhere to be found, and when a second child - three year old Violet - also vanished from a different childcare nursery, panic set in. Lauren and Matt knew the first few hours were vital, but soon it was forty eight hours and they had no clues. Would they find the children before it was too late? And would they identify the bones that had been discovered?
The Lost Girls of Penzance is the 1st in the Cornwall Murder Mystery series by Sally Rigby and it was excellent. A fast paced police procedural with a spiky, no-holds-barred boss, combined with a new Detective who had trouble handling anything in the morgue, and Lauren's talented team working their places, The Lost Girls of Penzance is one I recommend highly. I'm already looking forward to book #2.
With thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Five years after Sally Fairburn lost her thirteen year old daughter, and four years since the Poster Killer had abducted six young girls, with only onFive years after Sally Fairburn lost her thirteen year old daughter, and four years since the Poster Killer had abducted six young girls, with only one girl's body recovered, Sally had handed in her police badge and become a victim's advocate, comforting the parents of the girls taken. The Poster Killer would put a "missing" poster up on bus shelter walls with the victim he would take after it had been seen. A vicious killer who was in prison for other crimes - some thought he was also the Poster Killer - contacted Sally, saying he knew who the Poster Killer was. But he wouldn't give Sally any meaningful information and when Sally saw another poster, this time with her own picture on it, she knew things had escalated - more people were in danger, including herself.
Sally's fourteen year old son Paul was an angry young man. When Sally and her ex-husband Scott had split, Paul hated the narcissistic bully that he was, and now wanted to help his mother. As danger came closer to Sally and Paul, Sally knew she'd do anything to keep her son safe. But with the local police not doing a great deal of anything, it seemed it was up to Sally. Could she do it? Could she identify and stop the killer before he murdered again?
Next Girl Missing is the 1st in A Sally Fairburn Crime Thriller by Aussie author L.A. Larkin and it was gripping and filled with tension. I did feel Sally did some very foolish things, putting her own life in danger. But with all her lack of self-confidence, caused by Scott, she was like a wolf with her pup - determined, brave and even while shaking like a leaf, sure of her abilities. I'm looking forward to #2 Her Deadly Truth. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Five years after Sally Fairburn lost her thirteen year old daughter, and four years since the Poster Killer had abducted six young girls, with only one girl's body recovered, Sally had handed in her police badge and become a victim's advocate, comforting the parents of the girls taken. The Poster Killer would put a "missing" poster up on bus shelter walls with the victim he would take after it had been seen. A vicious killer who was in prison for other crimes - some thought he was also the Poster Killer - contacted Sally, saying he knew who the Poster Killer was. But he wouldn't give Sally any meaningful information and when Sally saw another poster, this time with her own picture on it, she knew things had escalated - more people were in danger, including herself.
Sally's fourteen year old son Paul was an angry young man. When Sally and her ex-husband Scott had split, Paul hated the narcissistic bully that he was, and now wanted to help his mother. As danger came closer to Sally and Paul, Sally knew she'd do anything to keep her son safe. But with the local police not doing a great deal of anything, it seemed it was up to Sally. Could she do it? Could she identify and stop the killer before he murdered again?
Next Girl Missing is the 1st in A Sally Fairburn Crime Thriller by Aussie author L.A. Larkin and it was gripping and filled with tension. I did feel Sally did some very foolish things, putting her own life in danger. But with all her lack of self-confidence, caused by Scott, she was like a wolf with her pup - determined, brave and even while shaking like a leaf, sure of her abilities. I'm looking forward to #2 Her Deadly Truth. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Marianne and her team of loyal Resistance followers fled when the Germans found their safe-house, the farm they held their meetings in, deep in the foMarianne and her team of loyal Resistance followers fled when the Germans found their safe-house, the farm they held their meetings in, deep in the forest. Three were captured and left hanging in front of the farmhouse, as a reminder to everyone that the Nazis were everywhere. As Marianne continued to wonder who had betrayed them, more betrayals followed before they joined with another Resistance group, led by the inimitable Juliette. Their work in Lyon was only just beginning, with more of their members infiltrated in various places of importance. They would make a difference in the hateful, horrible war!
When Jack, Marianne's fiance, was captured by the Gestapo and taken to holding where the Butcher of Lyon, a brutal, heartless man named Barbie, would torture his victims before executing them, Marianne was determined to rescue him before their secrets were revealed. With help from within the organisation, to only just escaping with the Nazis behind them, they edged closer. But what would they find? Would they be able to retrieve their captured friends before it was too late?
The Silence Before Dawn is the 1st in the WW2 Resistance Series by Amanda Lees and I was captivated from the start, flying through the pages until the end. An excellent covering of the Resistance of Lyon, the based-on-true-stories of the strong, resilient and determined young women agents who showed such bravery and courage in the face of true horror - I was entranced and am very much looking forward to book #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Marianne and her team of loyal Resistance followers fled when the Germans found their safe-house, the farm they held their meetings in, deep in the forest. Three were captured and left hanging in front of the farmhouse, as a reminder to everyone that the Nazis were everywhere. As Marianne continued to wonder who had betrayed them, more betrayals followed before they joined with another Resistance group, led by the inimitable Juliette. Their work in Lyon was only just beginning, with more of their members infiltrated in various places of importance. They would make a difference in the hateful, horrible war!
When Jack, Marianne's fiance, was captured by the Gestapo and taken to holding where the Butcher of Lyon, a brutal, heartless man named Barbie, would torture his victims before executing them, Marianne was determined to rescue him before their secrets were revealed. With help from within the organisation, to only just escaping with the Nazis behind them, they edged closer. But what would they find? Would they be able to retrieve their captured friends before it was too late?
The Silence Before Dawn is the 1st in the WW2 Resistance Series by Amanda Lees and I was captivated from the start, flying through the pages until the end. An excellent covering of the Resistance of Lyon, the based-on-true-stories of the strong, resilient and determined young women agents who showed such bravery and courage in the face of true horror - I was entranced and am very much looking forward to book #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
It had been two years since Lowri Morgan had lost her husband Alun, and it had been a period of grief and unimaginable pain. Their six year old daughtIt had been two years since Lowri Morgan had lost her husband Alun, and it had been a period of grief and unimaginable pain. Their six year old daughter, Wren, was what helped Lowri through, plus her best friend Jess, always in her corner. On the brink of moving to a home near her sister, Lowri discovered Alun had owned an estate, Clearwater, details of which he'd kept from her. When Lowri drove to Clearwater, while Wren was in school, she saw Alun's solicitor. The news he gave her was such that it would change her life. The crumbled ruins of the castle stood proud among the beauty around it, and the gatekeeper's house was one such building.
Lowri and Wren moved to Clearwater, not knowing what to expect, but the cottage was charming and Wren loved her room. When Lowri met Elin, a bubbly, full of life young woman, she knew she'd found a friend. And she felt the same with Selen. But the working factory, which Lowri now owned, was set in the past and Lowri knew she needed to work toward better working conditions for the staff. But it was someone else who had it in for Lowri - and she was also beginning to understand that Alun had kept things from her. Big secrets that she was determined to uncover. What would it mean for the future of Clearwater? Would they be happy in their new home?
Secrets of Clearwater Castle is the 1st in the Clearwater Castle series by Emma Davies, and I loved it. Heartwarming and charming, with the setting of Wales and the beautiful meadow near the river with the castle in the background, the flowers and rare orchid - all designed to delight, and it did. I'm looking forward very much to #2 in the series and have no hesitation in highly recommending Secrets of Clearwater Castle.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
It had been two years since Lowri Morgan had lost her husband Alun, and it had been a period of grief and unimaginable pain. Their six year old daughter, Wren, was what helped Lowri through, plus her best friend Jess, always in her corner. On the brink of moving to a home near her sister, Lowri discovered Alun had owned an estate, Clearwater, details of which he'd kept from her. When Lowri drove to Clearwater, while Wren was in school, she saw Alun's solicitor. The news he gave her was such that it would change her life. The crumbled ruins of the castle stood proud among the beauty around it, and the gatekeeper's house was one such building.
Lowri and Wren moved to Clearwater, not knowing what to expect, but the cottage was charming and Wren loved her room. When Lowri met Elin, a bubbly, full of life young woman, she knew she'd found a friend. And she felt the same with Selen. But the working factory, which Lowri now owned, was set in the past and Lowri knew she needed to work toward better working conditions for the staff. But it was someone else who had it in for Lowri - and she was also beginning to understand that Alun had kept things from her. Big secrets that she was determined to uncover. What would it mean for the future of Clearwater? Would they be happy in their new home?
Secrets of Clearwater Castle is the 1st in the Clearwater Castle series by Emma Davies, and I loved it. Heartwarming and charming, with the setting of Wales and the beautiful meadow near the river with the castle in the background, the flowers and rare orchid - all designed to delight, and it did. I'm looking forward very much to #2 in the series and have no hesitation in highly recommending Secrets of Clearwater Castle.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Detective Jack Kent was recovering from a terrible climbing accident where her best friend died. Hannah continued to live in her dreams while Jack didDetective Jack Kent was recovering from a terrible climbing accident where her best friend died. Hannah continued to live in her dreams while Jack didn't forgive herself for living while Hannah died. A specialist climber, Jack and her team were working a rape case, bringing all the evidence together to arrest the rapist. When they were notified of a series of high-rise break and enters, Jack was the best person to lead the team as it looked like the culprit entered after scaling the walls. But it was when the body of a doctor was discovered that had Jack deep into investigation mode. Was it all connected? Would Jack discover who was tormenting her before someone else lost their life?
Silent Fall is the 1st in the Detective Jacqueline “Jack” Kent series by Nicky Downes and we see a woman who is a mountaineer as well as a detective, who has plenty of baggage which goes back to her childhood, when she followed in her father's footsteps, learning the art of climbing from him. Set in Birmingham, UK, the plot was twisty and a little convoluted; it didn't grab me as I expected it would. Nicky was a hard character to like, and I'm hoping the 2nd in the series will bring more clarity.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Detective Jack Kent was recovering from a terrible climbing accident where her best friend died. Hannah continued to live in her dreams while Jack didn't forgive herself for living while Hannah died. A specialist climber, Jack and her team were working a rape case, bringing all the evidence together to arrest the rapist. When they were notified of a series of high-rise break and enters, Jack was the best person to lead the team as it looked like the culprit entered after scaling the walls. But it was when the body of a doctor was discovered that had Jack deep into investigation mode. Was it all connected? Would Jack discover who was tormenting her before someone else lost their life?
Silent Fall is the 1st in the Detective Jacqueline “Jack” Kent series by Nicky Downes and we see a woman who is a mountaineer as well as a detective, who has plenty of baggage which goes back to her childhood, when she followed in her father's footsteps, learning the art of climbing from him. Set in Birmingham, UK, the plot was twisty and a little convoluted; it didn't grab me as I expected it would. Nicky was a hard character to like, and I'm hoping the 2nd in the series will bring more clarity.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Stolen Souls by M.L. Rose is the 1st in the Detective Nikki Gill series, and with an eye-catching cover, plus an enticing plot, it sounded like my sorStolen Souls by M.L. Rose is the 1st in the Detective Nikki Gill series, and with an eye-catching cover, plus an enticing plot, it sounded like my sort of read. But although the plot was good, the execution was very poor. I was surprised the publisher let this one through even though I know (I hope) the published edition will be fixed. The editing in my copy is woeful - for example - "the paramedics loaded the black body bag into the back of the ambulance, complete with body, and drove away; then Detective Gill, her offsider and the doctor went into the room where the body was, as they searched for clues, turning the body over..." There were more...
Nikki's younger brother Tommy was in a boys care home in Dunston Hill when she was still a child, and she remembered him and the trauma that surrounded their lives back then. Now it looked like the murder of the Professor in the Oxford College was connected to that time at Dunston Hill, and when another Professor was discovered, murdered in the same way as the first, Nikki and her team knew there were others in the way of the killer. But could they discover who it was, and why he was brutally killing his victims?
With child abuse the focus of the book's beginning, I felt I'd be bogged down. But it wasn't "in your face" as such, and the latter part of the book centred mostly around the crimes. I'm not sure at this stage whether I'll look at the second in the series, but discounting the editing, it was a good police procedural.
With thanks to Storm Publishing via NetGalley for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Stolen Souls by M.L. Rose is the 1st in the Detective Nikki Gill series, and with an eye-catching cover, plus an enticing plot, it sounded like my sort of read. But although the plot was good, the execution was very poor. I was surprised the publisher let this one through even though I know (I hope) the published edition will be fixed. The editing in my copy is woeful - for example - "the paramedics loaded the black body bag into the back of the ambulance, complete with body, and drove away; then Detective Gill, her offsider and the doctor went into the room where the body was, as they searched for clues, turning the body over..." There were more...
Nikki's younger brother Tommy was in a boys care home in Dunston Hill when she was still a child, and she remembered him and the trauma that surrounded their lives back then. Now it looked like the murder of the Professor in the Oxford College was connected to that time at Dunston Hill, and when another Professor was discovered, murdered in the same way as the first, Nikki and her team knew there were others in the way of the killer. But could they discover who it was, and why he was brutally killing his victims?
With child abuse the focus of the book's beginning, I felt I'd be bogged down. But it wasn't "in your face" as such, and the latter part of the book centred mostly around the crimes. I'm not sure at this stage whether I'll look at the second in the series, but discounting the editing, it was a good police procedural.
With thanks to Storm Publishing via NetGalley for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Josie Waters was feeling slightly stressed as she contemplated the easiest item to produce for breakfast for her guests at the Oyster Cove Guesthouse.Josie Waters was feeling slightly stressed as she contemplated the easiest item to produce for breakfast for her guests at the Oyster Cove Guesthouse. She’d purchased the guesthouse from Millie Sullivan, a friend of the family - especially of her mother - and they had moved to the nearby retirement home. But Josie didn’t mind when Millie and her Mum visited – Millie was a great cook and took over often. The guesthouse was in dire need of renovations and she’d also inherited Nero and Marlowe, the resident cats. Not that she knew much about cats – she had no idea they were about to train her…
When one of her guests ended up dead – at the bottom of old stairs no less – Josie was horrified it was deemed murder, and then the sheriff declared her a suspect. Immediately she decided to find the culprit herself. How many suspects could there be in the small town of Oyster Cove?
A Twist in the Tail is the first in The Oyster Cove Guesthouse series by Leighann Dobbs and a fun and entertaining romp with a group of investigative cats, some ditzy humans and plenty of obscure clues to keep the reader guessing. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Josie Waters was feeling slightly stressed as she contemplated the easiest item to produce for breakfast for her guests at the Oyster Cove Guesthouse. She’d purchased the guesthouse from Millie Sullivan, a friend of the family - especially of her mother - and they had moved to the nearby retirement home. But Josie didn’t mind when Millie and her Mum visited – Millie was a great cook and took over often. The guesthouse was in dire need of renovations and she’d also inherited Nero and Marlowe, the resident cats. Not that she knew much about cats – she had no idea they were about to train her…
When one of her guests ended up dead – at the bottom of old stairs no less – Josie was horrified it was deemed murder, and then the sheriff declared her a suspect. Immediately she decided to find the culprit herself. How many suspects could there be in the small town of Oyster Cove?
A Twist in the Tail is the first in The Oyster Cove Guesthouse series by Leighann Dobbs and a fun and entertaining romp with a group of investigative cats, some ditzy humans and plenty of obscure clues to keep the reader guessing. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
It all began when the exhumation revealed a body under the coffin – the girl in the grave had been there for the weeks since the funeral. Who was it? It all began when the exhumation revealed a body under the coffin – the girl in the grave had been there for the weeks since the funeral. Who was it? And how did she get there?
Dr Beth Adams, forensic pathologist to the police of Cumbria in the Lake District was called in. Her good friend Detective Josh Walker was on the scene and with the constant rain, the tent covered the grave site, which was a crime scene. Beth herself had suffered a brutal attack seven years prior and was still coming to terms with her near death. But Josh had been the one constant she could rely on.
As Josh’s team tried to find the perpetrator of the girl in the grave’s death, another young woman went missing. The race was on – but still they couldn’t find where the killer was keeping his victims. With Josh finally getting a little closer, suddenly Beth was in danger once again. Would she escape with her life this time?
The Girl in the Grave by Helen Phifer is my first by this author and it was gripping, intense and fast paced. I had worked out the killer quite early in the piece, but still enjoyed the tale right to the conclusion. Recommended to fans of psychological thrillers.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
It all began when the exhumation revealed a body under the coffin – the girl in the grave had been there for the weeks since the funeral. Who was it? And how did she get there?
Dr Beth Adams, forensic pathologist to the police of Cumbria in the Lake District was called in. Her good friend Detective Josh Walker was on the scene and with the constant rain, the tent covered the grave site, which was a crime scene. Beth herself had suffered a brutal attack seven years prior and was still coming to terms with her near death. But Josh had been the one constant she could rely on.
As Josh’s team tried to find the perpetrator of the girl in the grave’s death, another young woman went missing. The race was on – but still they couldn’t find where the killer was keeping his victims. With Josh finally getting a little closer, suddenly Beth was in danger once again. Would she escape with her life this time?
The Girl in the Grave by Helen Phifer is my first by this author and it was gripping, intense and fast paced. I had worked out the killer quite early in the piece, but still enjoyed the tale right to the conclusion. Recommended to fans of psychological thrillers.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Working at the Bryant & May matches factory after she finished school, Bella Rogers was joined there by her two friends, Fran and Edie. The three girlWorking at the Bryant & May matches factory after she finished school, Bella Rogers was joined there by her two friends, Fran and Edie. The three girls had been members of the school choir and sang in their tea breaks to keep the workers’ spirits up with the onset of the war – the boss named them The Bryant Sisters. When the three of them were offered an opportunity to sing for the soldiers in and around England, they jumped at the chance. Bella’s little sister, five-year-old Betty had died the previous Christmas and they were missing her terribly. And Bobby, Bella’s good friend and fellow singer from the choir had transferred to another part of England to prepare for his place in the war. With Bella’s dad also doing his bit, and Molly, her younger sister in the country for safety, only her mam was home. With the bombs falling nightly, the cellar was their safe place. Bella didn’t want to leave her mam home alone while she was off singing…
Their enjoyment of singing to the troops each night felt wrong with the country at war, but they knew it was keeping the spirits of the men up. Basil was in charge of the group – there were others besides The Bryant Sisters – and he kept them moving from one town to the next. When the Americans became involved in the war and arrived in England, Bella and her two girlfriends met some of them, especially the ones who also sang and played in the band. It was a heady time for them. But tragedy was to come and heartache to follow…
The Girls of Victory Street is the 1st in The Bryant Sisters series by Pam Howes and I really enjoyed it. I’m afraid it turned predictable – I was hoping it wouldn’t happen – but apart from that, it was entertaining. I found it very similar to Rosie Archer’s The Bluebird Girls Trilogy, which I loved. The days of the second world war for the women left at home while their men fought for their country, were hard. But they were strong and resilient, determined to “keep the home fires burning” while waiting for their men to return. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Working at the Bryant & May matches factory after she finished school, Bella Rogers was joined there by her two friends, Fran and Edie. The three girls had been members of the school choir and sang in their tea breaks to keep the workers’ spirits up with the onset of the war – the boss named them The Bryant Sisters. When the three of them were offered an opportunity to sing for the soldiers in and around England, they jumped at the chance. Bella’s little sister, five-year-old Betty had died the previous Christmas and they were missing her terribly. And Bobby, Bella’s good friend and fellow singer from the choir had transferred to another part of England to prepare for his place in the war. With Bella’s dad also doing his bit, and Molly, her younger sister in the country for safety, only her mam was home. With the bombs falling nightly, the cellar was their safe place. Bella didn’t want to leave her mam home alone while she was off singing…
Their enjoyment of singing to the troops each night felt wrong with the country at war, but they knew it was keeping the spirits of the men up. Basil was in charge of the group – there were others besides The Bryant Sisters – and he kept them moving from one town to the next. When the Americans became involved in the war and arrived in England, Bella and her two girlfriends met some of them, especially the ones who also sang and played in the band. It was a heady time for them. But tragedy was to come and heartache to follow…
The Girls of Victory Street is the 1st in The Bryant Sisters series by Pam Howes and I really enjoyed it. I’m afraid it turned predictable – I was hoping it wouldn’t happen – but apart from that, it was entertaining. I found it very similar to Rosie Archer’s The Bluebird Girls Trilogy, which I loved. The days of the second world war for the women left at home while their men fought for their country, were hard. But they were strong and resilient, determined to “keep the home fires burning” while waiting for their men to return. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Detective Eve Bennett and her specialist team - Clyde, Collin, Ray and Bina - entered the Tanner home in Hilldale, Utah, in the centre of a large polyDetective Eve Bennett and her specialist team - Clyde, Collin, Ray and Bina - entered the Tanner home in Hilldale, Utah, in the centre of a large polygamist community, and found themselves stunned by the ferocity of the murders. The husband, his two wives and son all lay dead, but the daughter was missing. Where was Hannah, and was she safe? The more Eve tried to interview Hannah, the more she was blocked from meeting her, talking to her.
The investigation was hindered by the local attorney, her step-brother Aaron, a man Eve had feared for most of her life. He was a bully, brutal and cruel - and very involved in the polygamist community. But Eve had escaped that life, and now her intent was justice for the brutalised women and children. Would she be able to solve this case, discover who murdered the family?
Only Girl Alive is the 1st in the Detective Eve Bennett series by Holly S. Roberts and it was breathtaking! I was completely involved in the plot, the intrigue which wove its way through the pages and the mind blowing horrors that was the polygamist community. Eve's complete team are well-crafted characters, including Eve herself, and I'm very much looking forward to book #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Merged review:
Detective Eve Bennett and her specialist team - Clyde, Collin, Ray and Bina - entered the Tanner home in Hilldale, Utah, in the centre of a large polygamist community, and found themselves stunned by the ferocity of the murders. The husband, his two wives and son all lay dead, but the daughter was missing. Where was Hannah, and was she safe? The more Eve tried to interview Hannah, the more she was blocked from meeting her, talking to her.
The investigation was hindered by the local attorney, her step-brother Aaron, a man Eve had feared for most of her life. He was a bully, brutal and cruel - and very involved in the polygamist community. But Eve had escaped that life, and now her intent was justice for the brutalised women and children. Would she be able to solve this case, discover who murdered the family?
Only Girl Alive is the 1st in the Detective Eve Bennett series by Holly S. Roberts and it was breathtaking! I was completely involved in the plot, the intrigue which wove its way through the pages and the mind blowing horrors that was the polygamist community. Eve's complete team are well-crafted characters, including Eve herself, and I'm very much looking forward to book #2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review....more
Daisy Montgomery woke in a strange house with an unknown man nearby. The only thing familiar was Alfie, Daisy’s little dog. After finally working out Daisy Montgomery woke in a strange house with an unknown man nearby. The only thing familiar was Alfie, Daisy’s little dog. After finally working out she’d been separated from her body in a singularly brutal attack and her body lay in the hospital in a coma, the stranger, Charlie O’Sullivan – who could see and hear her speak – decided to help Daisy find out who had tried to kill her and why.
Visiting with Charlie’s mother Dorothy, Daisy met other spirits and learned more about what was happening. But whoever tried to kill her, was attacking Daisy’s loved ones. Daisy and Charlie needed to find the culprit before that person made another attempt to kill Daisy. But could they do it? No one else could see Daisy so Charlie had to be her mouth piece. What would be the outcome to these strange occurrences in the once quiet Dandelion Ponds?
In High Spirits is the 1st in A Dandelion Ponds Mystery series by Aussie author Beth Prentice, a paranormal cozy mystery which I quite enjoyed. Entertaining, unusual, intriguing, I’ll definitely check out book 2. Recommended.
Merged review:
Daisy Montgomery woke in a strange house with an unknown man nearby. The only thing familiar was Alfie, Daisy’s little dog. After finally working out she’d been separated from her body in a singularly brutal attack and her body lay in the hospital in a coma, the stranger, Charlie O’Sullivan – who could see and hear her speak – decided to help Daisy find out who had tried to kill her and why.
Visiting with Charlie’s mother Dorothy, Daisy met other spirits and learned more about what was happening. But whoever tried to kill her, was attacking Daisy’s loved ones. Daisy and Charlie needed to find the culprit before that person made another attempt to kill Daisy. But could they do it? No one else could see Daisy so Charlie had to be her mouth piece. What would be the outcome to these strange occurrences in the once quiet Dandelion Ponds?
In High Spirits is the 1st in A Dandelion Ponds Mystery series by Aussie author Beth Prentice, a paranormal cozy mystery which I quite enjoyed. Entertaining, unusual, intriguing, I’ll definitely check out book 2. Recommended....more
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