I know the saying goes "don't judge a book by its cover," but I just never listen to that rule—especially when a book is as striking as THE PARTY by Robyn Harding. This eye-catching summer suspense novel had all the ingredients that should have made it a hit for me, but unfortunately, I never felt fully invested in this story. More than anything else, this book was just too average; it's neither particularly inventive nor particularly memorable, but it's not a memorably terrible book, either. This isn't a book that offends—it just falls flat.
Read MoreBook Review: SINCE WE FELL by Dennis Lehane
I have a bookish confession to make: SINCE WE FELL is the first Dennis Lehane book I’ve ever read. It’s safe to say I’m now a convert, and I’ll be making an intentional effort to get caught up on his backlist after devouring this masterful suspense novel. SINCE WE FELL is part sophisticated domestic drama, part unpredictable conspiracy, and part character study. Precisely plotted and expertly paced, SINCE WE FELL is a wholly impressive and immersive suspense read.
Read MoreBook Review: THE UNDESIRED by Yrsa Sigurdardottir
If you’re looking for a crime book recommendation that will give you goosebumps and make you think twice about turning out the light, look no further than Yrsa Sigurdardottir’s THE UNDESIRED. This unnerving, atmospheric Icelandic novel completely got under my skin, from its in-your-face opening to its utterly chilling final sentence.
Read MoreBook Review: THE PERFECT GIRL by Gilly Macmillan
My skepticism of the crime-books-narrated-by-teens subgenre met its match with THE PERFECT GIRL by Gilly Macmillan. This book moves seamlessly between a teenage perspective and an adult one, and completely drew me into its story of family dysfunction and buried secrets.
Read MoreBook Review: THE GIRL BEFORE by Rena Olsen
This immersive, gripping psychological suspense novel tackles topics of abusive relationships and emotional trauma with compassion and skill. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for an engaging crime book that will leave you thinking long after you've turned the last page.
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