Review: The Wilde Trials

The Wilde Trials by Mackenzie Reed
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Wilde Trials are about to commence and Chloe wants to participate.  She doesn’t want to win for the bragging rights … she wants to win for the $600,000!  Everyone knows that the competition is hard, but this year seems to be elevated to a new level.  When Chloe is blackmailed during the competition, she is forced to partner with other contestants to uncover the answer to another mystery.  Who will win this competition?  What happened to Hayes’s brother?

The Wilde Trials is a stand-alone mystery that had the potential to be amazing, yet didn’t satisfy my urge to be thrilled.  Reed created a plausible story and great characters, but individual scenes seemed forced.  This could be because there have been a lot of books released in this specific niche genre recently and by comparison, it wasn’t up to par.  The Wilde Trials is a fun read if you need a good escape.  

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Review: After Life

After Life by Gayle Forman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Amber is riding her bike home like she normally does … except she died seven years ago!  Everyone has moved on, but Amber is the same.  She doesn’t understand what is going on and neither does anyone else.  At first, Amber tries to reconnect with family and friends, but she quickly learns that her death affected everyone in some way, and it is hard to move past her being back.  Why was Amber and her family given this second chance?

After Life is a stand-alone novel that is one-part mystery and one-part supernatural story.  I was fully invested in this story from the start because I wanted to know what happened.  Forman didn’t disappoint with the wonderful ending and great explanation.  After Life is a short read, so go ahead and start it now.

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Review: Royal Heirs Academy

Royal Heirs Academy by Lindsey Duga
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Titus, Alaric, Emmeline, and Sadie have all had different upbringings.  What they have in common is that they all have the chance to be the heir to Ashland.  King Leander Eldana has decided that his three grandchildren and one commoner will compete to determine who he will name as heir.  They will do this while attending Almus Terra Academy in France.  Each of these teens has different strengths and weaknesses.  Who will come out on top?  Will friendships, alliances, or divisions be formed?

Royal Heirs Academy is a stand-alone realistic fiction story that was a pleasure to devour.  The alternating points of view were easy to follow and led to a greater understanding of the characters and what they were going through.  Duga created a plausible situation in today’s world, and I found myself finding a reason to get back to the book outside of my normal reading time.  Royal Heirs Academy is a fun escape read.

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Review: The Party

The Party by Natasha Preston
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Bessie and her friends have a plan for a great party during spring break.  They have access to a castle and want this to be the best party ever.  When the first partier dies, though, this will not be a normal party.  As more people lose their lives, this group of friends will learn secrets best kept hidden.  Who is the killer?  What are the secrets that will be revealed?

The Party is a stand-alone thriller that had so much promise, yet it fell flat. I loved the castle and the English surroundings, but the characters didn’t catch my attention and bring the story forward. It wasn’t a complete bust, and thankfully, it is a short read. It is a fun escape that should not be rushed to the top of your TBR list.

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Review: The Whispering Night

The Whispering Night by Susan Dennard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Winnie believes that her life is finally ready to settle down, but that all changes at the Nightmare Masquerade.  This week-long celebration brings Luminaries from everywhere together, but when unwelcome guests also arrive, Winnie’s life is turned upside down … again.  Winnie has a new group of enemies she must overcome and time is not on her side.  What dark secrets will be uncovered? 

The Whispering Night is the third book in The Luminaries series.  This dark fantasy was just as enjoyable as the first two volumes and readers will quickly fall into the newest adventure.  Character development and world building was complete in the other books, so please read them first to enjoy this experience.  Readers will easily see themselves (and their family) in the characters and they may even get a better understanding too.  The Whispering Night was a great conclusion to this trilogy.

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Review: A Queen's Game

A Queen's Game by Katharine McGee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alix of Hesse knew she was expected to marry royalty, but what happens when she falls for the wrong prince?  Helene d’Orleans may not be a princess anymore, but she loves to go against what’s expected and she has her sights set on Prince Eddy.  May of Teck is not royal but is working toward her own prince.  These strong women want more than a royal marriage, they want love, but they must overcome a fierce adversary, the Queen of England (Queen Victoria), who wants to meddle in relationships around her empire.

A Queen’s Game is a stand-alone historical fiction story that is full of intrigue.  This is a good starting point for those who are not familiar with this time period, yet it is also engaging for those who love everything Victorian England.  There was some hanky-panky, but nothing descriptive.  This was not a deep read and I had to fight NOT to look up these young women to find out the true story.  A Queen’s Game is a fun romantic novel that teaches a little history along the way.

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Review: Teen Titans: Starfire

Teen Titans: Starfire by Kami Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kori and her sister are ready for their summer job at the beach club.  Kori must watch what she is doing because she has Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, which causes severe inflammation in her joints.  Kira, her sister, is having a wonderful summer with her hot boyfriend.  Kira’s boyfriend talks the girls into an EDS study that promises to help with Kori’s symptoms, but when they begin to develop powers, the summer fun escalates.  Will these sisters team up or go their separate ways? 

Teen Titans: Starfire is the fifth graphic novel in the Teen Titans series.  Readers who have enjoyed the development of this story will be satisfied with this portion and those who jumped into this volume will not have any issues following.  The graphics were on point yet the overall story dragged in a few spots.  Starfire was a good bridge to the next book Teen Titans: Together.

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Review: The Debutantes

The Debutantes by Olivia Worley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lily is ready to be the Queen of the Les Masques Ball when a person in a Jester costume makes everything go sideways. When her royal court gets a mysterious text the next day and she isn’t where the text directs, it is reminiscent of last year’s queen … who was dead the next day. The Maids have nothing in common, but they want to know where Lily is and why debutantes are at risk. Is Lily alive? What secrets are hidden within the elite of New Orleans?

The Debutantes is a stand-alone mystery that will grab readers at the start and keep them turning pages throughout. Worley did a wonderful job of showing readers that secret societies are not only something from previous centuries and rich white men still feel entitled to run their world as they see fit. The Debutantes will leave readers wondering what secrets are hidden around them too.


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Review: In Too Deep

In Too Deep by Lee Child
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jack doesn’t know where he is or how he got there.  All he knows is that he is being restrained and he needs a plan to get away.  He gets the chance to talk with one of his captors and he learns that he was in a car crash and the driver is dead.  They want to know what Reacher knows … but that can’t work with his short-term memory loss.  Of course, Reacher gets away and now he wants to find out what is going on.

In Too Deep is the twenty-ninth Jack Reacher novel and it pulls no punches.  We all know that danger and intrigue find Jack, even if he isn’t looking for it.  The cast of characters are devious if not very smart and Reacher must trust strangers while also not letting them too close.  In Too Deep is a fun continuation of the Jack Reacher saga. 

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Review: Twenty-Four Seconds from Now...

Twenty-Four Seconds from Now... by Jason Reynolds
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Neon is now in Aria’s bathroom having a breakdown.  They are about to take their relationship to the next level … that is if he can get out of his head and back into her bedroom.  Twenty-four minutes ago Neon was leaving work; twenty-four days ago Neon’s mom found her bra in his bedroom; twenty-four weeks ago …; twenty-four months ago …. 

Twenty-Four Second From Now is a novel told in reverse.  This book starts with now and slowly backs up to show the reader what was happening in Neon’s life to get him to that point.  Reynolds did a wonderful job leading readers into the thoughts and actions of Neon and the people in his life.  It was a little confusing at first, but once I understood what the story was trying to do, it was great.  This is a short read that can be completed in one sitting.

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Review: The Glass Girl

The Glass Girl by Kathleen Glasgow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bella has a lot of responsibilities.  Her parents are divorced, she seems to be raising her younger sister, and working too.  Bella is also the go-between with her parents and she can’t turn to her grandmother anymore … because she is dead.  She has started self-medicating with alcohol but doesn’t believe she has a problem … until she goes to a party on Thanksgiving and wakes up in the hospital.  Now she must face the consequences of her drinking and go to rehab.

The Glass Girl is a realistic fiction story that takes an issue that plagues humans of every age and puts it into a story that is easily relatable and easy to read.  Glasgow was able to build the story in such a way that readers will know where it is going next and still stick around for the ride.  The Glass Girl is a heart-wrenching story that would be a good fit for teens and adults alike.

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Review: Ruin Road

Ruin Road by Lamar Giles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cade is playing football at a great high school, but his home is in the wrong neighborhood.  No matter where he goes, people steer clear of him … he is a large, black, teenage boy.  One night after his game is canceled, he ducks into a pawn shop and feels drawn to buy a ring.  A statement told in jest is taken as a wish and Cade’s life is turned upside down.  Will Cade be able to get out of his wish?  What price is too high?

Ruin Road is a stand-alone blend of fantasy and thriller as readers try and discover where the story is going next and what side stories are related to the main tale.  Giles has created relatable characters that pull at threads that link to issues in the news today and the story explores dark twists to many of our thoughts.  A fast-paced read for all thriller fans.

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Review: The Heart of the World

The Heart of the World by Amie Kaufman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Selly and Leander have been through a lot and the result is love.  He is now the Messenger for the goddess Barrica and Leander is the only thing keeping him from being taken over by the dark magic.  Unfortunately, Barrica wasn’t the only goddess who woke up and this new god is trying to start a war.  Will these two be able to stop the evil in the world, both immortal and human?  Will their new bond survive what they must go through next?

The Heart of the World is the second book in The Isles of Gods fantasy series.  The beginning of the book has a refresher of the first book so those who have a space of time between novels will be reminded.  This might be too much if you are reading the books close together, though.  Kaufman has taken the world-building from the first book and expanded on these dynamic characters.  A good fantasy read for those who enjoyed the first part.

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Review: Lucy Undying

Lucy Undying by Kiersten White
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Lucy is known as one of Dracula’s first victims.  For over 100 years, she has been trying to keep one step ahead of him and his control.  It is now 2024 and she discovers Iris, a woman with her own family secrets.  They are quickly drawn to each other, but neither knows what the other is grappling with.  Will Lucy and Iris find happiness?  Will Dracula catch up to her after all this time? 

Lucy Undying is a stand-alone supernatural story that pulls many elements of the original Dracula tale into the twenty-first century.  I have always loved the original Dracula story and the many variations throughout the years, and I was looking forward to this new addition.  Although I enjoyed the story overall, many places had me rolling my eyes as the story felt contrived and predictable.  Lucy Undying was a good story, but not one that must be rushed to the top of a TBR list.

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Review: Tiger's Tale

Tiger's Tale by Colleen Houck
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Anastasia and Verusha are the only children of the tsar but prefer their time with the guards instead of state affairs.  They know their parents won’t live forever and one of them must take the throne.  When their mother’s illness gets worse, the sisters look far and wide for a cure.  When they refuse a stranger’s help, he releases a curse that has the sisters fleeing their home.   Will they be able to break the curse?  Will their country survive without them?

Tiger’s Tale is the sixth book in The Tiger Saga series.  This book can be read by itself or out of order since the narrator at the beginning and end are the only references to the original series.  With that being said, this story was a wonderful escape and I was happy to explore a new world with tigers in the forefront.  I will warn readers that this book is not a one-and-done for this tale.  There is a cliffhanger and we must wait to learn more about Anastasia and Verusha.

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Review: One Last Chance to Live

One Last Chance to Live by Francisco X. Stork
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Nico wants to be a writer.  He is taking a creative writing class at school and can feel the book inside him.  After having a dream about his funeral, he begins to wonder if he is going to die young.  It doesn’t help that his best friend’s girlfriend died the year before, especially since he was secretly crushing on her.  Now his mom is sick, and his brother is getting too close to a local gang.  What will Nico learn about himself and his family? 

One Last Chance to Live is a stand-alone realistic story that is short and sweet.  It was easy to get into but also very easy to forget.  The characters were enjoyable while reading, but I didn’t feel pulled back into the story after sitting it down for a while.  This would be a good book for reluctant readers, but avid readers will find it lacking.

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Review: Sync

Sync by Ellen Hopkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Twins Storm and Lake have always had a connection.  Some may say they are in sync.  Even after five years in the foster care system, they easily know what the other one needs.  They are currently living in different homes, but they have hope as they age out of the system.  When Storm’s girlfriend is attacked and he retaliates, he is sent to lockup … again.  Lake has found acceptance in a new relationship until she is convinced to run away.  Now she is out in the world with no resources and no hope.  What obstacles will these teens have to face next?

Sync is a realistic fiction story that is told in a novel-in-verse format.  The story alternatives between Lake and Storm’s point of view, yet it was easy to follow along as the story unraveled.  There are various triggers throughout this tale, so readers should be prepared to read or skip over these events.  Hopkins did a wonderful job balancing some hard issues in an easy-to-digest format.  Sync is a strong pick for older teens or adults wanting an edgy read.

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Review: By Any Other Name

By Any Other Name by Jodi Picoult
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the late 1500s, Emilia was sold by her family to be the mistress of Lord Chamberlain. Although she appears to have everything she needs … a voice is not one of them. She convinces a man to be the name on the plays she is writing and history will never know. Melina is in the present day and can’t get her work published either. When she has the chance to get her work performed, under a man’s name, she decides to go for it. Are these women’s stories ever coming out into the light?

By Any Other Name is a historical fiction story with intertwining narratives. Melina is a descendant of Emilia and appears to be taking inspiration from the story that she believes needs to be told. The facts about women being published in the past and the present are dealt with fairly and readers may even be inspired to look up some of these Shakespearean works to look for the clues mentioned. Although this is a long read, it will be a pleasure for those who enjoy this historical period.


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Review: Fire and Bones

Fire and Bones by Kathy Reichs
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tempe has been asked to look at a new crime scene.  A series of arson attacks in Washington, DC have taken place and Tempe plans to get to the bottom of them.  She teams up with a journalist who helps her research bootleggers and racketeers from the early 1900s.  When another building in this historic area burns to the ground, Tempe wonders if the attacks are more specific.  Is someone keeping an eye on Tempe?  What will she uncover during her investigation?

Fire and Bones is the twenty-third book in the Temperance Brennan series.  Although this series is long-running, readers could jump into this book as a stand-alone and enjoy it anyway.  One of the quirks I liked about this book is that Tempe enjoyed junk food and fast food.  So many characters now push “clean living”, and it is wonderful to know that others struggle with eating quickly, even if they are in a book.  The mystery was spot on, and fans of the series will not be disappointed.

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Review: Such Charming Liars

Such Charming Liars by Karen M. McManus
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It has always been Kat and her mom, Jamie. There was a brief time when her mom was married, but that only lasted 48 hours. Jamie is a good jewel thief but wants to leave that life behind … after one last heist. Kat finagles onto the job, and they run into her mom’s ex-husband and his son. They have their own scam planned … then the billionaire dies. Who else is a target? Is there anyone Kat can trust?

Such Charming Liars was a fun if not exciting read. Although this book wasn’t very long, I didn’t find the mystery very attention-catching. The story moved along, and all questions got answered, but I finished the book wondering why I spent the time. It's not as good as McManus’ other books, but not the worst mystery written recently.


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Review: Break to You

Break to You by Neal Shusterman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Adriana must endure seven months in juvie.  The only saving grace is she has been permitted to keep her journal.  When she misplaces it, she thinks everyone will know her secret thoughts.  She is relieved when she finds it, but unsure when she discovers that someone has written back … a boy.  Jon is in juvie for a different reason and this journal may be the connection to someone else that he has been craving.

Break to You is a stand-alone realistic fiction story that helps readers understand the juvenile justice system as well as some issues that lead teens to be in juvie.  Although this is written by multiple authors, I did not see any demarcations of when one was writing and when another took over.  The overall story was well thought out and I was fully invested in these two young people.  A great story for teens and adults alike.

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Review: 49 Miles Alone

49 Miles Alone by Natalie D. Richards
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Katie and Aster have planned to spend 4 days alone in the desert trekking 49 miles.  They have made trips like this before, but this one has been a cluster from the beginning.  One of them becomes injured and the other becomes ill.  Then a storm shatters their resolve and ruins some of their supplies.  Just when they are about to give up and call for help, they run into a young couple with extra supplies.  They are happy for the help, but something about the boyfriend seems off.  Will this pair make it out alive?  What other obstacles will this trail throw their way?

49 Miles Alone is an adventure story that was half plot set up and half high octane.  It was interesting to learn about this type of hiking and the hazards that could occur, but the adventure was lackluster, and I had to keep re-reading passages to remember what was going on.  The book’s saving grace is that it was a short read.  49 Miles Alone would be good for a road trip distraction.

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Review: Seasick

Seasick by Kristin Cast
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Naya and Yana used to be best friends, but that ended a long time ago.  They are thrown back together when both are accepted into a special group for Yatesville High’s best graduates.  There are many perks to being in this group; the first is a trip to Bermuda.  Everyone had to turn in their phones before joining the group on the yacht and that becomes a huge issue when one of their classmates is murdered and the crew is drugged unconscious.  Now they are stuck at sea, with no way to get help, and they must trust each other enough to find out who the murderer is and (hopefully) survive themselves.  Who can they trust?

Seasick is a psychological thriller that starts with blood everywhere and then the story backs up to the beginning.  Once the book takes off, it is all character development until the one-third mark when the first murder takes place.  I felt this book took too long for the mystery to get going.  As the storyline progressed, everything fell apart, and the overall plot felt forced.  Not recommended for true mystery fans.

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Review: Icon and Inferno

Icon and Inferno by Marie Lu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Winter has not been able to stop thinking about Sydney for the past year.  He may be a superstar, but that feeling is nothing like when he went undercover to take down one of London’s bad guys.  Now that rumors are flying about a tell-all book, Winter would like nothing more than to get away into Sydney’s secret world.  His wishes come true when Sydney and Winter are paired up for an extraction mission; an assassination goes wrong and now they are on the run.  Who is undermining their mission? 

Icon and Inferno is the second book in the Stars and Smoke series.  Currently, this romantic adventure is listed with only two books, but the “log” at the end of the book leaves these characters open for more adventures and maybe a little more romance.  Although it had been over a year since I read the first book, I was easily able to jump into this story without feeling confused at all.  The adventures felt natural and the book had a can’t-put-down feel the entire time.  I will read the next book … if it is ever written.  

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Review: The Queen of Poisons

The Queen of Poisons by Robert Thorogood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Mayor of Marlow dies during a town council meeting and traces of aconite are found in his coffee.  Aconite is known as the queen of poisons because of its toxicity.  Before Judith, Suzie, and Becks can meddle too far, they are brought in as civilian advisors to the police and the trio begin to investigate, even if they don’t follow normal police procedures.  This case appears to be more complicated than at first glance and the Marlow Murder Club must pull out all the stops to find the killer.  Who would want to kill the mayor?  Is anyone else on the murderer’s radar?

The Queen of Poisons is the third book in The Marlow Murder Club series.  These characters are so much fun to read about and even though it had been months since I read the second book, I was easily able to remember the quirks of each of these ladies and jump full tilt into this new mystery.  Thorogood has created a town with characters that most readers can relate to and another story that was hard to put down.  Although this could be read and enjoyed on its own, readers will have more fun if they read the books in order.

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Review: Storm: Dawn of a Goddess

Storm: Dawn of a Goddess by Tiffany D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ororo has been living on the streets of Cairo for years.  Ever since she survived the plane crash that killed her parents, she has been keeping her white hair covered and her blue eyes down.  Fortunately, she is good at what she does … taking things from tourists.  Her skill as a pickpocket isn’t her only feature, though.  Sometimes, if she is upset, sudden storms appear around her.  Her life may not be perfect, but it is hers until the Shadow King locates her and she must run and discover where her powers come from.  Will Ororo learn to control her powers?  What truths will she discover about her people?

Storm: Dawn of a Goddess is a stand-alone fantasy adventure story for fans of the Marvel Universe and even those who know nothing about it.  This origin story has many cameo appearances from beloved Marvel characters and the adventure that Ororo is subject to was exhilarating.  I found myself finding time to get back to the book quickly so that I could see how it would unfold.  Jackson hit the book out of the ballpark with this story and this updated world has more stories available if she wants to continue.

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Review: Stay Dead

Stay Dead by April Henry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Milan has just been expelled from her third boarding school.  Her mother is already traveling in their private plane and stops by to pick her up.  As they are journeying home, a bomb detonates, and the plane goes down.  Before her mom dies, she gives her a ring of keys and tells her there is evidence of a coverup that led to her father’s death.  She needs to get away, but the only way that will happen is if everyone believes she is dead.  Who can Milan trust?

Stay Dead is a fast-paced thriller that is not like the usual Henry books with a body being found.  The mystery is truly complicated and convoluted, yet it also is captivating.  As Milan navigates out of a snow-covered landscape into the heart of a criminal conspiracy, I wondered what I would be doing if it was me … and I will have to admit I probably would have died.  Stay Dead is a great read for all thriller fans.

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Review: The Girl in Question

The Girl in Question by Tess Sharpe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nora is finally out of high school, and she should be looking forward to the next stage of her life, but since her stepdad is free and wants revenge, it is hard to concentrate on the future.  She decides that a 10-day hiking trip is needed.  A wrench is thrown in right away when Wes’s girlfriend comes along.  That wasn’t in the plans, and neither was Amanda getting kidnapped.  How did Raymond know where they would be?  Why was Amanda taken?  What secrets are being kept?

The Girl in Question is the sequel to The Girls I’ve Been.  The first book ended with a satisfying ending, but for those who wanted to know what happened next … this book will give you the answers.  There are some crazy timeline issues with all the flashbacks, but that was the same as the original and if you enjoyed that book, you would also enjoy this book.  The Girl in Question is a must-read for everyone who loved The Girls I’ve Been.

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Review: When Among Crows

When Among Crows by Veronica Roth
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Dymitr is a killer … of monsters.  This is such a part of who he is, he had to split his soul to make a sword … out of his spine!  Ala has inherited her mother’s curse.  This curse will kill her too, if she isn’t able to break it.  When Dymitr offers Ala a chance at a cure, she accepts without knowing what she is getting into.  With such a time crunch on the possible cure, will they be able to complete both tasks in time? 

When Among Crows is a stand-alone urban fantasy that sounds amazing but does not follow through.  I even restarted the book thinking that my mind must have wandered too much and the second time through was just as painful.  I’m sure there will be readers who love this story, but I found the tale flat and lifeless.  I won’t give up on Roth as a writer, but this is not one of her best.

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Review: Beastly Beauty

Beastly Beauty by Jennifer Donnelly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Arabella’s mother has plans for her.  She will be sweet and quiet.  She will also marry whomever her mother tells her.  To do this, she must hide her real thoughts and dreams from everyone around her.  She is doing her best but learns she can no longer stand quietly and let others be abused.  When her anger is released … a curse is put upon her.  After a time, Beau has been captured in Arabella’s castle and the servants think he may be able to break the curse.  Beau only wants to get away.  He believes there is no such thing as love.  Is there a chance that Beau and Arabella can break the curse? 

Beastly Beauty is a stand-alone fairy tale re-telling where the main characters' genders are reversed.  Most readers will be familiar with the popular reincarnations of Beauty and the Beast and this version has everything a fairy tale fan would want.  Donnelly did a wonderful job switching the roles and putting a fresh spin on a beloved tale.  Beastly Beauty will be a hit for everyone who enjoys a good re-telling.

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Review: This Book Won't Burn

This Book Won't Burn by Samira Ahmed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Noor is focused on finishing her senior year when she is sideswiped by her father leaving her family and her mother moving them to a new city.  With only the last quarter to finish, Noor plans to keep her head down and graduate.  That doesn’t happen when she discovers that the school has pulled 500 books from the library because of a new policy.  She has been taught to stand up for what she believes in and starts challenging these new rules.  Now she has a target on her back.  Will Noor be able to get the books back in the library? 

This Book Won’t Burn is a stand-alone realistic story that is timely and eye-opening.  The issue of books being banned in schools is prevalent everywhere but is definitely at the forefront here in Indiana.  Although everyone has their views on this issue, I feel Ahmed was balanced in her presentation and everyone will finish this book with many nuggets to think about.  This is a book all bibliophiles, educators, and school board members need to read.

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Review: The Dare

The Dare by Natasha Preston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It is a senior tradition for a series of pranks to be completed.  Most of the dares are innocent.  Egging houses, releasing chickens, and similar pranks.  Unfortunately, the dares keep escalating, and when Jesse is dared to drive a dangerous road with no lights … the inevitable happens.  A man is dead and four friends have covered it up.  Can they trust each other?  What other secrets were being kept?

The Dare is a stand-alone mystery that will pull readers in immediately and keep them engaged throughout.  The final climax doesn’t happen until the last chapter and that made this pulse-pounding mystery that much more enjoyable.  Preston has created characters with hidden depth, even if I can’t believe the actual events would be possible (although they are plausible).  The Dare is a great escape read for all Preston and mystery fans.

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Review: Wide Awake Now

Wide Awake Now by David Levithan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It is 2024 and the presidential election is over.  A gay Jewish man has won the presidency … or has he?  The governor of Kansas believes that the election results in his state are invalid and transfers his state’s votes to the other party.  Jimmy and Duncan feel the election is being stolen and they cross the country with others to protest this action.  Who really won the election?  What will Jimmy and Duncan learn about themselves during this adventure?

Wide Awake Now is a stand-alone reimagining of Levithan’s 2004 novel Wide Awake set in 2024.  This book is politically charged and contains many topics that may be against some readers personal points of view.  Overall the story was a quick read with many timely topics, but which includes too many issues that seem put there solely to push an agenda.  Readers should start this book knowing these concerns ahead of time. 

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Review: Draw Down the Moon

Draw Down the Moon by P.C. Cast
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wren has known that she is a Mundane and both of her parents were magickal … it just was how everything was.  That all changed on her eighteenth birthday when she started glowing.  Now she must go to the Academia de la Luna and learn to develop her powers, if she has any.  Lee is her best friend and has always known about the Academia and had plans to continue his family’s legacy.  He was not planning to go with Wren, who he loves as more than a friend.  The Academia is overwhelming, and these friends quickly learn it is dangerous too.  What secrets will be discovered?  Who will survive these dangerous trials?

Draw Down the Moon is the first book in the Moonstruck series.  I was captivated by the various characters and subplots and couldn’t wait to turn the pages and find out what would happen next.  As this first story started reaching its conclusion, I felt dismayed that the book wasn’t longer.  I don’t want to wait for the next installment, but it will be added to my to-be-read list!

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Review: The Reappearance of Rachel Price

The Reappearance of Rachel Price by Holly Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bel was 2 years old when she was found in the backseat of her mother’s car with the heat running and a juice box.  The disappearance of her mother has never been solved.  She is now eighteen years old and her mother has reappeared.  Rachel’s story has too many flaws and Bel begins to wonder if her mother was taken or if she left.  What happened to Rachel sixteen years ago?  Is the Price family still in danger?

The Reappearance of Rachel Price is a standalone mystery that had me turning the pages and wondering where it was going next.  Jackson included several twists and turns throughout and when the reveal begins, readers will soon discover that inconsequential nuggets were important.  The answers to the mystery are revealed a few chapters before the ending, but that gives the story the space to wrap up nicely.  A thoroughly enjoyable mystery read.

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Review: The Cemetery of Untold Stories

The Cemetery of Untold Stories by Julia Alvarez
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alma is a successful, published writer, but she has many stories that she never finished.  After inheriting land in her homeland, the Dominican Republic, she decides that is the perfect place to bury these stories … literally.  Alma hopes this will give her characters and stories a place to rest.  Her stories have other plans, and the cemetery becomes a place for these untold tales to finally be heard.  Some of her characters talk back to Alma (or each other) and a few even revise themselves. 

The Cemetery of Untold Stories is a twisting story that is not an easy read and those who choose to explore these pages need to know that it is complicated yet satisfying.  Alvarez has taken a few different storylines and crafted a narrative that blends them together.  I thought this was going to be a collection of stories, but it ended up delivering so much more.  A fulfilling read even if it wasn’t a fun one.

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Review: She's Not Sorry

She's Not Sorry by Mary Kubica
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Meghan is recently divorced and learning how to juggle raising a teenage girl alone and working to support her family.  She is a nurse and has seen the good and bad in the world.  When a new patient arrives in a coma and a witness says she was pushed, Meghan gets a little too close to the patient and the drama that is her family.  What happened to Caitlin on the bridge?  What is going on with Meghan’s daughter?

She’s Not Sorry is a stand-alone mystery that does start a little slow, but then the last third of the book twists and turns and goes in many unexpected ways.  Events that seem trivial when introduced turn out to be important to the plot and Kubica brings everything together seamlessly.  The book ended up being an exciting read and I suggest not starting the last few chapters at night, otherwise, you might end up staying up to finish the book.

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Review: Royal Scandal

Royal Scandal by Aimee Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evan is finally getting used to all the media attention since the world discovered she is the illegitimate daughter of the King of England.  Almost all of the clickbait is false news, but Evan has been receiving threats of another story … one that is all too true.  As more and more information is leaked about her, she wonders if she will always be hated by the people of Britain.  Then there is an assassination attempt … and another.  Does someone really want Evan dead or is there another motive?

Royal Scandal is the second book in the Royal Blood series.  This mystery had enough clues at the beginning to nudge my memory about events in the first book without feeling that the author was trying to recap everything for readers.  I will say that I was constantly running scenarios in my head as I was working my way through the novel and was happy that it wasn’t completely predictable.  Goodreads has an untitled third book listed and I hope that Carter can continue this series past three books.  

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Review: Under This Red Rock

Under This Red Rock by Mindy McGinnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Neely has always been haunted by monsters.  The only place she can get away from them is in the caverns near her home.  She thinks she will finally have some quiet when she lands a job at this cavern and the added perk is Mila.  Mila is everything Neely wishes to be, but when a staff party has her using drugs … her monsters get worse.  Soon, Mila is found dead, and Neely can’t trust her memories of that night.  Who killed Mila? 

Under This Red Rock is a supernatural story with a mystery twist.  Readers will easily be able to suspend disbelief as they uncover hidden truths above and below ground.  McGinnis has once again stretched into a new genre and proven that she will not be contained by one type of writing.  This book is a fast-paced mystery with some interesting supernatural components to keep the reader on their toes.  Under This Red Rock is a wonderful read for everyone.

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Review: Angelbound Tales Volume 1

Angelbound Tales Volume 1 by Christina Bauer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am one of those readers who LOVE everything to do with Myla Lewis.  She is quirky, funny, and is a kiss a$$ protagonist!  This collection of five short stories had everything I love and did not disappoint.  Two stories take place before the series began and the other three are interspersed throughout the many volumes.  Because of the various locations within the series, I believe readers should NOT read this unless they have read most of the original stories.  Walker’s Love Connection (before Angelbound Book One), Sharkie and Snickerdoodles (before Angelbound Book One), Wedding Bells (after Angelbound Book One), Herbie and Baby Hotdogs (after Scala), and Saving Mrs. Pomplemousse (after Acca).  I hope this information helps future readers.

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Review: Four Letter Word

Four Letter Word by Gretchen McNeil
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Izzy’s mom has planned for her to study abroad in Italy and Izzy has looked forward to leaving her boring life behind.  When Alberto, an Italian foreign exchange student, moves in with them, she realizes that her life isn’t as boring as she thought.  Izzy is also a true crime fan and has been following a case of a serial killer in San Francisco.  When the murderer seems to have traveled north, Izzy wonders if Alberto is who he says he is.

Four Letter Word is a predictable mystery that was still enjoyable to read.  McNeil was able to put in a few unexpected twists and turns, but the trajectory of the story followed the usual path.  I was satisfied with the ending, but I only recommend this for those who need a simple escape and not a heart-pounding mystery.

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Review: The New Couple in 5B

The New Couple in 5B by Lisa Unger
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chad and Rosie helped take care of Chad’s uncle in his last months of life.  When they find out that he unexpectantly leaves them his expensive apartment, they were floored.  Everyone was welcoming and they tried their best to adjust to their new place.  Rosie soon learns that there are mysteries contained within Windermere and not all of them are in its past.  Will Rosie discover the truth about Windermere before it is too late?

The New Couple in 5B is a stand-alone mystery that was one-part suspenseful and one-part history.  Readers will wonder how many of the issues are personal and which parts may be supernatural, yet Unger did a superb job blending all elements into a cohesive storyline.  I was a little disappointed in the ending, but the build up made the entire experience a pleasure.

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Review: The Encanto's Daughter

The Encanto's Daughter by Melissa de la Cruz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

MJ and her mother are always moving.  They have been on the run because MJ is the only child of King Vivencio of the Sirena Court.  After her father dies, she is tasked with returning to his realm and taking her place as the heir.  Unfortunately, she is half human and many do not feel she has the right to become ruler and she only has one month to get ready for the throne.  Will she discover her magic in time to demonstrate her power?  Will she be able to survive the numerous attempts on her life?

The Encanto’s Daughter is the first book in the series with the same title.  This fantasy novel is nothing like de la Cruz’s other books, yet this fast-paced book was a wonderful distraction.  Readers will quickly find characters they love and hate as the story develops and climaxes.  The Encanto’s Daughter would be a great introduction to the fantasy genre.  

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Review: With a Little Luck

With a Little Luck by Marissa Meyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jude has done a good job of surviving high school without any major issues.  He has great friends, a job, and a relaxing hobby.  He isn’t unhappy with his life, but when he finds a twenty-sided dice that appears to be giving him great luck … his life begins to change.  He wins tickets to a concert and decides to ask out his long-time crush; she accepts!  One of his drawings is accepted in a fanzine and he helps a friend become a finalist in a competition.  Everything is wonderful until he loses the dice. His luck quickly vanishes and he is now faced with a life in upheaval.  Can Jude make his own luck?

With a Little Luck is the second book in the Fortuna Beach duology.  Although this is technically a sequel, readers do not need to have read the first book to enjoy it.  There are spoilers for the first book in this one, though, so don’t read it first if you plan to go back to the original.  Meyer has created a cast of characters I loved to spend time with and I hope she creates other “companion” novels with them.  A fun escape for all underdog romance fans.

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Review: Kindling

Kindling by Traci Chee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The war is finally over but the kindlings that were used as weapons are left without a purpose.  There is still violence everywhere and when a village is threatened, a group of kindlings believe it is time to fight again.  Being raised to be a weapon has changed them in many ways … what suffering will they need to overcome to be successful?  How many will come out of this quest alive?

Kindling is a stand-alone Fantasy novel that is full of action and adventure.  The characters push through various obstacles and learn from each other along the way.  This is a book of moderate length, yet it felt like a short, fast read.  There are a few unnecessary “sexual” scenes, but nothing too racy.  Chee takes issues that are relevant even now and puts a wonderful fantasy spin on them.  A strong read for all fantasy fans.

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Review: The Women

The Women by Kristin Hannah
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Frances has finally become a nurse and is feeling underwhelmed with the menial tasks she is asked to do.  Her father has always spoken highly of the men in the family who have served in the military and when she learns that the Vietnam War needs nurses … she signs up.  All she has under her belt is her schooling, but war is a fast teacher and she becomes a very competent trauma nurse.  War might be hard, but Frances quickly learns that coming home has its own problems.  Those who are protesting the war are also protesting the veterans.  When she asks for help for her nightmares, first she is told that only men were in Vietnam … then she is told that she didn’t see combat and didn’t need services.

The Women is a historical fiction story that had me shaking my head at some of the actions of the supportive characters.  I don’t know if that is because we are 50+ years after these events or if it is because I am a female who served in the military during the 1990s.  This book is great to read by yourself, but I also think this would make an excellent book club book so readers have a platform to discuss the varied issues.  I don’t give many books 5 stars … but this one is definitely a 2024 5-star book!

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Review: Pangu's Shadow

Pangu's Shadow by Karen Bao
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ver and Aryl have overcome many obstacles to become apprentices in a great biology lab.  They know they have a long way to go, but everything changes when an explosion happens, and their boss is found dead.  The authorities believe there was foul play involved and one or both girls are behind it.  They are bailed out by Cal’s wife and have less than a week to figure out what exactly happened.  Was it an accident?  Was it suicide?  Or was it murder?

Pangu’s Shadow is a stand-alone sci-fi mystery that wasn’t very long, which made the events appear that much more intense.  I was swept into the story immediately and thoroughly enjoyed the science-fiction aspects and the mystery that needed to be solved.  I have never read anything by Bao before, but I will be looking for more books by this talented author.  A great escape whether you like science fiction or mysteries.

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