Rarely have I ever been as hesitant to write a review as I have been to write this one. After absolutely loving HER EVERY FEAR (Swanson’s 2017 release), Peter Swanson’s ALL THE BEAUTIFUL LIES was one of my highly-anticipated 2018 reads; unfortunately, my reading experience not only fell flat, but was so genuinely uncomfortable and disturbing that I’ve long wrestled with whether or not I even want to write this review. I went into this book well aware, based on its plot description, that it would have a component involving a taboo relationship, but I could never have predicted the total focus this book would place on illicit relationships between adults (often adults in the role of guardian) and young people. Had I known this in advance, I wouldn’t have chosen to read this book - I take full responsibility for not having done enough research before diving in. But given that this book did appear on my Instagram - and given my genuine aversion to its content - a review is warranted. My only request of you, the reader: please read this review keeping in mind that I have the utmost respect for the author, the publisher, and for all readers whose opinions on this book differ from my own.
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Book Review: IN THE VINES by Shannon Kirk
As a crime fiction reader, what could be better than finding a psychological thriller that is so effective and immersive in its portrayal of an unhinged mindset that it actually makes you start to feel just a bit unhinged yourself? Finding a book that does this effectively is never easy, but today’s featured title does it in spades. IN THE VINES by Shannon Kirk will make for twisted, page-turning summer reading - a shocking and purely entertaining psychological suspense novel for the reader who doesn’t want to just see the deterioration of the story’s main characters, but wants to feel it, too. Kirk has written an immersive, addictive story of toxic family secrets and the fallout of their surfacing. From its atmospheric backdrop (a seaside New England estate, now falling into disrepair) to its vivid, impactful writing and (let’s not forget) genuinely twisted central mystery, IN THE VINES delivers the total package - and makes for the perfect addition to your summer reading list.
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Book Review: THE GIRL IN THE ICE by Robert Bryndza
THE GIRL IN THE ICE by Robert Bryndza (Grand Central; 4/24/18) was a comfort read for me - and I mean that in the best possible way. From its compelling female lead to its breezy pacing and addictive tension, Bryndza’s police procedural struck exactly the right chord for this reader. Fans of M.J. Arlidge will find Bryndza’s work right up their alley - THE GIRL IN THE ICE has a similar tone to Arlidge’s DI Helen Grace books, which, if you know me, you’ll know I mean as a high compliment. Pick this one up for a weekend binge-read - you'll find Bryndza's world instantly-accessible, his characters compelling and endearing, and his story's central mystery wholly engrossing.
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Book Review: THE ROSES OF MAY by Dot Hutchison
I recently read - and fell head-over-heels for - the dark, twisted page-turner that is THE BUTTERFLY GARDEN by Dot Hutchison, Book 1 in Hutchison’s Collector Trilogy. Naturally, I had to get my hands on the second series installment, THE ROSES OF MAY, as soon as possible - especially because the final book in the series releases this May. THE ROSES OF MAY would be hard-pressed to be more different from its predecessor, focusing on the inner life of survivors of traumatic events, rather than the traumatic events themselves; if you’re a fan of THE BUTTERFLY GARDEN like I was, be sure to go into this book with the right expectations.
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Book Review: THE DEATH OF MRS. WESTAWAY by Ruth Ware
If you know me, you know I love Ruth Ware. Ware is one of those authors who continually reinvents herself with each new novel, giving readers stories that are fresh, inventive, and totally engaging—all while maintaining that trademark Ruth Ware pacing and tone that I love so much. THE DEATH OF MRS. WESTAWAY is another outstanding novel of psychological suspense from an author who has quickly earned her title of "modern-day Agatha Christie." Dare I say it? THE DEATH OF MRS. WESTAWAY is my favorite Ruth Ware book yet.
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