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lit_with_britt's Reviews (406)
If you’re in the mood for a fast-paced, addictive psychological thriller, The Housemaid is a must-read! This book had me hooked from the very first chapter and didn’t let go until the last shocking twist.
Millie’s new job as a live-in housemaid for the mysterious Winchester family seems like a fresh start—until strange things begin to unravel. Between her erratic employer, Nina, and the eerie atmosphere of the house, Millie realizes she’s caught in something far more dangerous than she expected.
Freida McFadden masterfully builds tension, delivering twist after twist. While some parts of the story stretch believability, the sheer suspense makes it impossible to put down. Some of the elements were predictable but the book was still satisfying. I finished this book within 24 hours—it’s that good!
If you love dark secrets, shocking twists, and binge-worthy reads, add this to your TBR!
Millie’s new job as a live-in housemaid for the mysterious Winchester family seems like a fresh start—until strange things begin to unravel. Between her erratic employer, Nina, and the eerie atmosphere of the house, Millie realizes she’s caught in something far more dangerous than she expected.
Freida McFadden masterfully builds tension, delivering twist after twist. While some parts of the story stretch believability, the sheer suspense makes it impossible to put down. Some of the elements were predictable but the book was still satisfying. I finished this book within 24 hours—it’s that good!
If you love dark secrets, shocking twists, and binge-worthy reads, add this to your TBR!
Leaving Time by Jodi Picoult follows teenager Jenna Metcalf’s search for her missing mother, Alice, an elephant researcher. The story weaves grief, motherhood, and memory with fascinating insights into elephant behavior. While the premise is intriguing and the emotional twist near the end is impactful, the execution falls short.
Drawn-out dialogue slows the pace, making the journey feel tedious at times. The focus on elephant research, though interesting, becomes excessive as the book progresses, overshadowing the main narrative. This imbalance, along with the slower pacing, made this my least favorite Picoult book so far.
Despite its shortcomings, the story still offers emotional depth and might appeal to fans of layered mysteries. However, it didn’t hold my attention or leave the lasting impression I’ve come to expect from her work. It’s worth a read, but not her strongest. I look forward to my next Jodi Picoult novel as she is one of my favorite authors.
Drawn-out dialogue slows the pace, making the journey feel tedious at times. The focus on elephant research, though interesting, becomes excessive as the book progresses, overshadowing the main narrative. This imbalance, along with the slower pacing, made this my least favorite Picoult book so far.
Despite its shortcomings, the story still offers emotional depth and might appeal to fans of layered mysteries. However, it didn’t hold my attention or leave the lasting impression I’ve come to expect from her work. It’s worth a read, but not her strongest. I look forward to my next Jodi Picoult novel as she is one of my favorite authors.
Just finished Open Season by C.J. Box and I enjoyed it. The Wyoming wilderness was vividly described and Joe Pickett’s moral integrity made him a relatable protagonist. The mystery was solid, and I appreciated how it tackled themes like wildlife conservation and power. The pacing felt decent, with a slow start after the initial situation but the ending gave me a good resolution.
Though it’s a well-written story with memorable moments, it didn’t quite grip me enough to commit to the rest of the series. Fans of outdoor mysteries or morally complex characters might love it more than I did. For me, it was a decent read, but not one I feel compelled to continue.
Though it’s a well-written story with memorable moments, it didn’t quite grip me enough to commit to the rest of the series. Fans of outdoor mysteries or morally complex characters might love it more than I did. For me, it was a decent read, but not one I feel compelled to continue.
Listen for the Lie is a gripping psychological thriller that blends suspense with complex character development. From the very first page, the story pulls you in with its fast pace and intricate web of secrets and lies. The author’s ability to craft tension and maintain it throughout is impressive.
The protagonist is relatable yet deeply flawed, which adds a compelling layer to the narrative. The supporting characters are equally intriguing, with each playing a crucial role in the plot’s unraveling. The dialogue feels natural and contributes to the immersive experience.
One of the standout aspects of the book is how it explores themes of trust, deception, and the grey areas of morality. The twists are not only unexpected but also believable, enhancing the emotional impact. While the ending ties up most loose ends, it leaves just enough ambiguity to linger in your thoughts.
Overall, Listen for the Lie is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. A riveting and thought-provoking tale! 4.75 stars
The protagonist is relatable yet deeply flawed, which adds a compelling layer to the narrative. The supporting characters are equally intriguing, with each playing a crucial role in the plot’s unraveling. The dialogue feels natural and contributes to the immersive experience.
One of the standout aspects of the book is how it explores themes of trust, deception, and the grey areas of morality. The twists are not only unexpected but also believable, enhancing the emotional impact. While the ending ties up most loose ends, it leaves just enough ambiguity to linger in your thoughts.
Overall, Listen for the Lie is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. A riveting and thought-provoking tale! 4.75 stars
Disclaimer: I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Joseph Souza’s Cruel & Bitter Things is a dark and gripping tale that masterfully blends psychological suspense with an exploration of moral complexity. The story follows Gwynn Denning, a group home director and mother, who leads a double life as a vigilante serial killer. While she sees herself as delivering justice, her actions, relationships and past create a protagonist both horrifying and fascinating.
The plot thickens as Gwynn becomes entangled with the detective investigating her murders, adding a layer of forbidden romance that ratchets up the tension. Souza’s ability to weave Gwynn’s dark deeds with her tender moments as a mother showcases the duality of human nature. Is her adopted father more connected to her past than she realizes? Why would her therapist lie to the detective about Gwynn leaving with Sam? These questions keep readers guessing, especially as Gwynn’s sessions with her therapist cast doubt on her reliability.
Though certain moments stretched plausibility, the steady pacing and complex characters made the story thoroughly enjoyable. The suspense is razor-sharp, the ending was satisfying without feeling rushed, though some loose ends left me hoping for a sequel to explore unanswered questions.
Overall, Cruel & Bitter Things is an addictive read that masterfully blurs the line between justice and madness.
Rating: 4.25/5 stars.
Joseph Souza’s Cruel & Bitter Things is a dark and gripping tale that masterfully blends psychological suspense with an exploration of moral complexity. The story follows Gwynn Denning, a group home director and mother, who leads a double life as a vigilante serial killer. While she sees herself as delivering justice, her actions, relationships and past create a protagonist both horrifying and fascinating.
The plot thickens as Gwynn becomes entangled with the detective investigating her murders, adding a layer of forbidden romance that ratchets up the tension. Souza’s ability to weave Gwynn’s dark deeds with her tender moments as a mother showcases the duality of human nature. Is her adopted father more connected to her past than she realizes? Why would her therapist lie to the detective about Gwynn leaving with Sam? These questions keep readers guessing, especially as Gwynn’s sessions with her therapist cast doubt on her reliability.
Though certain moments stretched plausibility, the steady pacing and complex characters made the story thoroughly enjoyable. The suspense is razor-sharp, the ending was satisfying without feeling rushed, though some loose ends left me hoping for a sequel to explore unanswered questions.
Overall, Cruel & Bitter Things is an addictive read that masterfully blurs the line between justice and madness.
Rating: 4.25/5 stars.
Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Daisy Jones & The Six is a unique and engaging story told through an oral history format, chronicling the rise and fall of a fictional 1970s rock band. Initially, the format took some getting used to, and it slowed my immersion into the story. However, once I adjusted, I became completely hooked on the band’s dynamics, their creative highs, and the emotional struggles behind the music.
The audiobook brought this story to life in an extraordinary way, with a full cast of narrators giving each character a distinct and authentic voice. This added layers of depth and made the interviews feel vibrant and real, almost as if I were listening to an actual documentary. The characters are flawed yet compelling, and their complex relationships—particularly between Daisy and Billy—are raw and gripping.
This novel is not just about music but about love, ambition, and self-destruction. It’s an emotional rollercoaster with moments of heartbreak, triumph, and nostalgia. Despite the slow start, it’s an unforgettable experience, especially for fans of music-driven stories. Excited to check out the tv series next. Highly recommended for audiobook lovers!
Rating: 4.5 stars
The audiobook brought this story to life in an extraordinary way, with a full cast of narrators giving each character a distinct and authentic voice. This added layers of depth and made the interviews feel vibrant and real, almost as if I were listening to an actual documentary. The characters are flawed yet compelling, and their complex relationships—particularly between Daisy and Billy—are raw and gripping.
This novel is not just about music but about love, ambition, and self-destruction. It’s an emotional rollercoaster with moments of heartbreak, triumph, and nostalgia. Despite the slow start, it’s an unforgettable experience, especially for fans of music-driven stories. Excited to check out the tv series next. Highly recommended for audiobook lovers!
Rating: 4.5 stars
Charlie Donlea’s Don’t Believe It is a masterfully crafted mystery that unravels through the lens of a true-crime documentary. The steady pacing allows for deep character exploration while building suspense that kept me guessing throughout. The story cleverly twists and turns, with my main prediction ultimately proven wrong, yet the same person ended up taking the fall—a satisfying surprise. Donlea skillfully blends an intricate plot with compelling characters, keeping readers engaged as secrets are slowly revealed. The documentary framework adds a unique layer of storytelling, making the twists even more impactful. While the ending tied up most loose ends, a few lingering questions added to the intrigue and kept me thinking long after I finished. With its mix of suspense and unpredictability, this book is an addictive and highly entertaining read.
Disclaimer: I was given a copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest review. Thank you to NetGalley and Hyperion Avenue for this opportunity.
Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell is a solid 4-star read. Despite being unfamiliar with Marvel or its characters, I found the story engaging. The fantasy elements were minimal, allowing me to focus on the mystery, which was the novel’s strongest feature. The steady pacing made it a quick and enjoyable read.
I appreciated that the plot didn’t leave any loose ends, providing a satisfying conclusion. While fantasy isn’t my typical genre, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment. This book is a great introduction for mystery fans willing to step slightly out of their comfort zone.
The idea of a series written by multiple authors intrigues me, and I’m considering exploring future installments. If you’re seeking a light mystery with just a hint of the fantastical, Breaking the Dark is worth picking up.
Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell is a solid 4-star read. Despite being unfamiliar with Marvel or its characters, I found the story engaging. The fantasy elements were minimal, allowing me to focus on the mystery, which was the novel’s strongest feature. The steady pacing made it a quick and enjoyable read.
I appreciated that the plot didn’t leave any loose ends, providing a satisfying conclusion. While fantasy isn’t my typical genre, it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment. This book is a great introduction for mystery fans willing to step slightly out of their comfort zone.
The idea of a series written by multiple authors intrigues me, and I’m considering exploring future installments. If you’re seeking a light mystery with just a hint of the fantastical, Breaking the Dark is worth picking up.
Kate Alice Marshall’s No One Can Know is a dark, atmospheric thriller that unravels a family’s tangled web of secrets. The story follows Emma, who returns to her childhood home—the site of her parents’ murders—while pregnant and desperate for answers. The book starts slowly, carefully laying the groundwork, but the suspense builds steadily, leading to a strong and satisfying finish. The layered characters bring depth to a chilling narrative filled with twists.
This book isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s packed with heavy themes, including abuse, murder, and betrayal, so check the trigger warnings before diving in. That said, Marshall expertly balances intrigue and emotion, making this a gripping read that keeps you guessing until the end. I gave it 4.5 stars for its compelling story, intense suspense, and unforgettable ending. A must-read for fans of dark, psychological thrillers!
This book isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s packed with heavy themes, including abuse, murder, and betrayal, so check the trigger warnings before diving in. That said, Marshall expertly balances intrigue and emotion, making this a gripping read that keeps you guessing until the end. I gave it 4.5 stars for its compelling story, intense suspense, and unforgettable ending. A must-read for fans of dark, psychological thrillers!
Freida McFadden’s The Teacher is a dark, twisty thriller that keeps readers on edge. While the plot is gripping and full of surprises, the characters were deeply unlikable for me. Eve is whiny and self-absorbed, Nate is morally corrupt and untrustworthy, and Addie comes across as manipulative and deceptive. Some elements, like Eve’s odd shoe fetish, feel out of place and unnecessary. Kenzie’s affair with a teacher was predictable, but the buried alive scene was shocking, and the revelation that Jay and Hudson were the same person left me completely stunned. I was convinced Jay was messing with Nate, but that twist changed everything. Up until the ending, it was a solid 4-star read, but the clever conclusion elevated it to 4.5 stars. Despite the unlikable cast, the story is undeniably addictive.