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mags_louise's reviews
3722 reviews
The Mongoose and the Cobra by David Jarvis
4.5
Mike Kingdom returns in another captivating geopolitical thriller.
In this installment, she's working once again with the sometimes over-the-top Leonard de Vries.
After Mike successfully averted disaster in The Violin and the Candlestick, Leonard has regained the CIA's trust and has been appointed as the head of the London station. Although he has undergone a slight transformation, his old habits occasionally resurface, especially when he pulls Mike and the visiting Wazz into an investigation involving kidnapping, underwater cables, and so much more.
The storyline begins when Valentina Ortiz, a billionaire and the largest political donor in the USA, discovers that her son Chuck, an analyst for the CIA in London, has not shown up for work. Just as she begins to raise the alarm, her other son, Diego, is kidnapped in Switzerland. And as a woman with significant connections who helped put the President in the White House, she demands answers and the swift return of her sons, willing to go to any lengths to ensure their safety.
In response, the President's chief of staff orders Leonard to locate Chuck and keep him safe — very safe. It falls to Mike to carry out this mission, especially since, unbeknownst to Leonard, she was the last person to speak with Chuck. Ad he confided in her that he believed his life was in danger and that he was going to see the tulips.
But why did Chuck seek out Mike? Why was he convinced he wasn’t safe, and what did he mean by that?
And with a storyline that feels highly relevant to today's world. This geopolitical thriller is not only gripping and entertaining but eye-opening and educational and I would happily recommend it to everyone!
In this installment, she's working once again with the sometimes over-the-top Leonard de Vries.
After Mike successfully averted disaster in The Violin and the Candlestick, Leonard has regained the CIA's trust and has been appointed as the head of the London station. Although he has undergone a slight transformation, his old habits occasionally resurface, especially when he pulls Mike and the visiting Wazz into an investigation involving kidnapping, underwater cables, and so much more.
The storyline begins when Valentina Ortiz, a billionaire and the largest political donor in the USA, discovers that her son Chuck, an analyst for the CIA in London, has not shown up for work. Just as she begins to raise the alarm, her other son, Diego, is kidnapped in Switzerland. And as a woman with significant connections who helped put the President in the White House, she demands answers and the swift return of her sons, willing to go to any lengths to ensure their safety.
In response, the President's chief of staff orders Leonard to locate Chuck and keep him safe — very safe. It falls to Mike to carry out this mission, especially since, unbeknownst to Leonard, she was the last person to speak with Chuck. Ad he confided in her that he believed his life was in danger and that he was going to see the tulips.
But why did Chuck seek out Mike? Why was he convinced he wasn’t safe, and what did he mean by that?
And with a storyline that feels highly relevant to today's world. This geopolitical thriller is not only gripping and entertaining but eye-opening and educational and I would happily recommend it to everyone!
Warrior by Ashton Brooks
emotional
hopeful
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
As a huge fan of MC romances, I was thrilled to read the first book in the Rebels of the Undead MC series by new to me author, Ashton Brooks, and it did not disappoint. As this MC romance features a tortured hero, a strong heroine, and an intriguing cast of bikers, all woven into a story that entertains, provokes emotion, and captures the reader from start to finish. I devoured it in just a few hours; it was that good.
As the story follows Colt Street, who, at eight years old, witnesses the horror of 9/11. When he returns home from school, he learns that his eighteen-year-old brother and best friend, Alex, has joined the Marines—only to come back home in a casket. This moment leaves a profound and lasting impact on his family and on Colt himself, who also falls in love with his next-door neighbor, Lyric.
But tragedy strikes the family again, and by the time Colt reaches eighteen, he has endured unimaginable hardships. However, he has two constants in his life: Lyric and his best friend Zane. And Lyric dreams of attending college in Alabama with Colt and building a life together. But when Colt breaks her heart for reasons revealed throughout the story, he and Zane enlist in the military. Where they witness horrors and lose friends, returning home as changed men.
My thanks to The Author Agency/Ashton Brookes for the opportunity to read Warrior. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Which leads them to join the Rebels of the Undead, where Colt and Zane are reunited ten years later with Lyric, who finds herself turning to the motorcycle club when her life is threatened. And as secrets are uncovered painful truths come to light. But the question remains: Is it enough to bring Colt and Lyric back together, or has too much happened in the past for them to have a future?
And with heartbreaking moments, spice, relatable characters, and the exploration of difficult subjects, this was a beautiful read—even if some parts were tough to handle. I couldn’t put it down and would happily recommend it, but please be aware that the story addresses the events of 9/11 and the deaths of family and service members, which may be upsetting for some.
As the story follows Colt Street, who, at eight years old, witnesses the horror of 9/11. When he returns home from school, he learns that his eighteen-year-old brother and best friend, Alex, has joined the Marines—only to come back home in a casket. This moment leaves a profound and lasting impact on his family and on Colt himself, who also falls in love with his next-door neighbor, Lyric.
But tragedy strikes the family again, and by the time Colt reaches eighteen, he has endured unimaginable hardships. However, he has two constants in his life: Lyric and his best friend Zane. And Lyric dreams of attending college in Alabama with Colt and building a life together. But when Colt breaks her heart for reasons revealed throughout the story, he and Zane enlist in the military. Where they witness horrors and lose friends, returning home as changed men.
My thanks to The Author Agency/Ashton Brookes for the opportunity to read Warrior. All thoughts expressed are my own. ☺️
Which leads them to join the Rebels of the Undead, where Colt and Zane are reunited ten years later with Lyric, who finds herself turning to the motorcycle club when her life is threatened. And as secrets are uncovered painful truths come to light. But the question remains: Is it enough to bring Colt and Lyric back together, or has too much happened in the past for them to have a future?
And with heartbreaking moments, spice, relatable characters, and the exploration of difficult subjects, this was a beautiful read—even if some parts were tough to handle. I couldn’t put it down and would happily recommend it, but please be aware that the story addresses the events of 9/11 and the deaths of family and service members, which may be upsetting for some.
Their Frozen Bones by D.K. Hood
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
Prepare yourself for a gripping return to Black Rock Falls in Their Frozen Bones. A thrilling tale that perfectly blends mystery and suspense. With Christmas fast approaching and a fierce blizzard closing in, detectives Kane and Alton receive an urgent disturbing call: a plane has crashed.
On board that plane is Julie Wolfe. Someone they hold dear, and with time running out, the team, including Julie's dad, ME Shane Wolfe, gear up and race to the crash site.
But with the storm worsening by the minute they aren't sure they'll make it.
However, they do and are met with a scene straight out of a nightmare, as everyone aboard is dead, except for Julie, and to make matters even more sinister, three additional bodies are found tied to nearby trees, frozen and lifeless, all sharing Julies striking blonde hair.
But where is Julie and her pink luggage?
Has a good Samaritan rescued her or has a cunning killer emerged from the shadows?
That's what Jenna and Dave must unravel and fast. As the blizzard closes in making tracking Julie and a killer almost impossible.
And with heart-pounding twists, unexpected turns and decisions that could mean life or death. This was a cracking addition to the series, and once again, I had no idea who the killer was. Furthermore, I loved how certain characters are evolving and can't wait to see what's install for them next.
I would happily recommend this story and series to all.
On board that plane is Julie Wolfe. Someone they hold dear, and with time running out, the team, including Julie's dad, ME Shane Wolfe, gear up and race to the crash site.
But with the storm worsening by the minute they aren't sure they'll make it.
However, they do and are met with a scene straight out of a nightmare, as everyone aboard is dead, except for Julie, and to make matters even more sinister, three additional bodies are found tied to nearby trees, frozen and lifeless, all sharing Julies striking blonde hair.
But where is Julie and her pink luggage?
Has a good Samaritan rescued her or has a cunning killer emerged from the shadows?
That's what Jenna and Dave must unravel and fast. As the blizzard closes in making tracking Julie and a killer almost impossible.
And with heart-pounding twists, unexpected turns and decisions that could mean life or death. This was a cracking addition to the series, and once again, I had no idea who the killer was. Furthermore, I loved how certain characters are evolving and can't wait to see what's install for them next.
I would happily recommend this story and series to all.
Live For Me by Brittany Ann
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
OMG!!! This is my first Brittany Ann novel. But based on this story it definitely won't be my last.
As Lie for Me sucked me in and kept me reading long into the night, and who knew morally grey cowboys were so yum!! 😋
And the best of it is that was only part of what made this story so GOOD.
As Lie for Me is a romantic suspense that delivers everything angst, passion, emotion, suspense and characters that are relatable and likeable.
Not to mention I loved that hard subjects were broached. That the FMC was the one to destroy the relationship the first time around and that there was a real fight for the pair to get back what they had lost. While also acknowledging they are not the same people they once were even though their feelings had never changed.
And with spicy moments, hurt, mystery, danger, second chances and lots of dark, dangerous, delicious cowboys. This was the cowboy romance I didn't know I needed and one I would definitely recommend to all.
As Lie for Me sucked me in and kept me reading long into the night, and who knew morally grey cowboys were so yum!! 😋
And the best of it is that was only part of what made this story so GOOD.
As Lie for Me is a romantic suspense that delivers everything angst, passion, emotion, suspense and characters that are relatable and likeable.
Not to mention I loved that hard subjects were broached. That the FMC was the one to destroy the relationship the first time around and that there was a real fight for the pair to get back what they had lost. While also acknowledging they are not the same people they once were even though their feelings had never changed.
And with spicy moments, hurt, mystery, danger, second chances and lots of dark, dangerous, delicious cowboys. This was the cowboy romance I didn't know I needed and one I would definitely recommend to all.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Stalking
Moderate: Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide attempt
Minor: Sexual assault
Scorned Obsession by Victoria Paige
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Victoria Paige delivers another incredible mafia romance, and boy, is it a wild, explosive, slow-burn, spicy, obsessive ride.
As Bianca De Lucci and Sandro Rossi have always had a special connection. In fact, Bianca has been obsessed with Sandro since the age of five. But Sandro has always felt he'd never be good enough for the youngest mafia adjacent De Lucci. Especially with the secrets he holds.
Yet, when an incident pulls Bianca from the periphery of mafia life to the centre, and she's forced to marry a Rossi to save her brother's life. Sandro ensures it's him she weds.
So now Bianca is a mafia wife, something she never dreamed of being and Sandro is a made man. Something he never planned on especially as it means he now has a target on his back.
But these two will do anything to step up and protect their families and those they love and ensure the De Lucci and Rossi names are protected.
However, someone is pulling strings and trying to start a war between the two families and it's up to Bianca and Sandro to figure out who that is.
And with just enough backstory to show how strong Bianca and Sandro's connection is. An FMC who is loyal, fierce and brave and an MMC whose intensity and touch-her-and-die vibes gave me all the feels. This was a story I completely devoured, and I loved how powerful and incredible Sandro and Bianca were together. I would happily recommend this story and the series to all.
As Bianca De Lucci and Sandro Rossi have always had a special connection. In fact, Bianca has been obsessed with Sandro since the age of five. But Sandro has always felt he'd never be good enough for the youngest mafia adjacent De Lucci. Especially with the secrets he holds.
Yet, when an incident pulls Bianca from the periphery of mafia life to the centre, and she's forced to marry a Rossi to save her brother's life. Sandro ensures it's him she weds.
So now Bianca is a mafia wife, something she never dreamed of being and Sandro is a made man. Something he never planned on especially as it means he now has a target on his back.
But these two will do anything to step up and protect their families and those they love and ensure the De Lucci and Rossi names are protected.
However, someone is pulling strings and trying to start a war between the two families and it's up to Bianca and Sandro to figure out who that is.
And with just enough backstory to show how strong Bianca and Sandro's connection is. An FMC who is loyal, fierce and brave and an MMC whose intensity and touch-her-and-die vibes gave me all the feels. This was a story I completely devoured, and I loved how powerful and incredible Sandro and Bianca were together. I would happily recommend this story and the series to all.
Find My Daughter: A totally addictive and gripping serial killer thriller by Jennifer Chase
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
Pine Valley cold case Detective Katie Scott returns in a confounding case.
That sees her approached by a desperate mother when Katie attends a conference in Sacramento.
Then, just a few minutes later, Katie finds the same woman dying in the car park, having been stabbed and as Katie tries to keep her alive. The mother makes one final emotional plea "Find my daughter"
So Katie doesn't waste any time in learning everything she can about missing Anna Braxton and starting an investigation.
But before Katie and her partner, McGaven, can make any headway, a body is found, and then Anna's friend Jasmine disappears.
And now the race is on...
As Katie and McGaven come up against a formidable foe. One who sees Katie as the only worthy opponent. But also believes they are far too clever to ever be caught.
And they might just be right.
As the danger is getting closer and the death toll is mounting and Katie is going to have to take all the risks and defy those she cares about. If she is to save a daughter and catch a relentless cunning killer.
That sees her approached by a desperate mother when Katie attends a conference in Sacramento.
Then, just a few minutes later, Katie finds the same woman dying in the car park, having been stabbed and as Katie tries to keep her alive. The mother makes one final emotional plea "Find my daughter"
So Katie doesn't waste any time in learning everything she can about missing Anna Braxton and starting an investigation.
But before Katie and her partner, McGaven, can make any headway, a body is found, and then Anna's friend Jasmine disappears.
And now the race is on...
As Katie and McGaven come up against a formidable foe. One who sees Katie as the only worthy opponent. But also believes they are far too clever to ever be caught.
And they might just be right.
As the danger is getting closer and the death toll is mounting and Katie is going to have to take all the risks and defy those she cares about. If she is to save a daughter and catch a relentless cunning killer.
Sinner's Vows by Sophia Karlson
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Sophia Karlson has knocked it out of the park with Sinners Vows and Dominic Scalera's story.
As Dominic is the interrogator of the family. A role he doesn't relish but one his father, the Don, took great pleasure in pushing him in too.
But there is a line he won't cross and that's hurting women.
Which he proves when Franco Fiore arrives in Boston with a mysterious hostage in tow. All so he can kidnap Gigi Tripani and make her his wife. Only Gigi is already married to Steph, Dominic's brother, and Franco underestimating the Scalera's doesn't last long. But the mysterious hostage Ariana gets hurt in the crossfire.
And now it's up to Dominic to look after her and, more importantly, find out who she really is.
But Ariana can't afford to let Dominic or any Scalera find out her secrets.
And trust me she has plenty!
As Ariana is an undercover agent for the Italian police, caught in the crosshairs of a rival mafia family that mistakenly believes she is one of their own and as Dominic takes it upon himself to safeguard her, an unexpected bond forms between them.
And for Dominic, who has always viewed women as vulnerabilities in his treacherous world, this connection becomes profound and transformative.
Especially when their journey takes them to Italy in search of the truth and secrets unravel and tensions mount.
And with a blend of compelling characters, intricate twists, and palpable chemistry, "Sinners Vows" crafts a story so engrossing I couldn't put it down, and I would happily recommend it to all.
As Dominic is the interrogator of the family. A role he doesn't relish but one his father, the Don, took great pleasure in pushing him in too.
But there is a line he won't cross and that's hurting women.
Which he proves when Franco Fiore arrives in Boston with a mysterious hostage in tow. All so he can kidnap Gigi Tripani and make her his wife. Only Gigi is already married to Steph, Dominic's brother, and Franco underestimating the Scalera's doesn't last long. But the mysterious hostage Ariana gets hurt in the crossfire.
And now it's up to Dominic to look after her and, more importantly, find out who she really is.
But Ariana can't afford to let Dominic or any Scalera find out her secrets.
And trust me she has plenty!
As Ariana is an undercover agent for the Italian police, caught in the crosshairs of a rival mafia family that mistakenly believes she is one of their own and as Dominic takes it upon himself to safeguard her, an unexpected bond forms between them.
And for Dominic, who has always viewed women as vulnerabilities in his treacherous world, this connection becomes profound and transformative.
Especially when their journey takes them to Italy in search of the truth and secrets unravel and tensions mount.
And with a blend of compelling characters, intricate twists, and palpable chemistry, "Sinners Vows" crafts a story so engrossing I couldn't put it down, and I would happily recommend it to all.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Physical abuse
Moderate: Sexual assault, Trafficking
One Last Prayer by Carla Kovach
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.5
DI Gina Harte is back in a captivating and intense mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
As she’s thrust into the complex investigation of the murder of a young single mother named Nell. Who after attending a mother and toddler group at the local church, leaves a chilling note that simply says, “HELP ME,” setting off alarm bells for the concerned vicar, Sally.
And realising the gravity of the situation, Sally rushes to Nell’s home, but tragically, she arrives too late. Where in a shocking discovery, she finds Nell brutally murdered in the garden, while her young son is left alone and frightened inside the house.
So, in a compassionate act, Sally offers to care for him until any family can be traced. However, this decision inadvertently places Sally's own life in danger.
As a result, Gina and her dedicated team are left to hunt for a sadistic killer. But with lots of potential suspects and witnesses who are lying catching this killer is no easy feat.
And with red herrings galore, gripping suspense, and characters that will draw you in! This thrilling addition to the series left me craving more, and I would happily recommend it to others.
As she’s thrust into the complex investigation of the murder of a young single mother named Nell. Who after attending a mother and toddler group at the local church, leaves a chilling note that simply says, “HELP ME,” setting off alarm bells for the concerned vicar, Sally.
And realising the gravity of the situation, Sally rushes to Nell’s home, but tragically, she arrives too late. Where in a shocking discovery, she finds Nell brutally murdered in the garden, while her young son is left alone and frightened inside the house.
So, in a compassionate act, Sally offers to care for him until any family can be traced. However, this decision inadvertently places Sally's own life in danger.
As a result, Gina and her dedicated team are left to hunt for a sadistic killer. But with lots of potential suspects and witnesses who are lying catching this killer is no easy feat.
And with red herrings galore, gripping suspense, and characters that will draw you in! This thrilling addition to the series left me craving more, and I would happily recommend it to others.
Gone In The Storm by B.R. Spangler
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Get ready for a thrilling ride as Detective Casey White faces her most challenging case yet!
When a high school student is accused of murdering his sweetheart Jill Carter, he is terrified and heartbroken.
But Casey's instincts scream that he couldn't be the killer. However, the new District Attorney has other ideas and is convinced of his guilt.
So, with time running out and lives hanging in the balance, Casey is determined to dig deep and uncover the truth.
Yet, just as she thinks the case couldn't get any darker another body surfaces eerily displayed just like Jill's. It's clear: a vicious killer is on the loose, and they won't stop until they've claimed more victims.
But proving a teenager's innocence whilst tracking down a ruthless killer isn't Casey's only battle. As she's also in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a creepy escaped convict. All whilst the biggest snowstorm in a decade ravages the Outer Banks.
Not to mention her private life is getting more complicated. As she and Jericho near the finish line in adopting the two children, they rescued in an earlier case. And Tracy Casey's long lost daughter starts to pull away.
And with a story that gradually builds the suspense and keeps you guessing at every turn. This instalment is an absolute gem and I couldn't recommend it more!
When a high school student is accused of murdering his sweetheart Jill Carter, he is terrified and heartbroken.
But Casey's instincts scream that he couldn't be the killer. However, the new District Attorney has other ideas and is convinced of his guilt.
So, with time running out and lives hanging in the balance, Casey is determined to dig deep and uncover the truth.
Yet, just as she thinks the case couldn't get any darker another body surfaces eerily displayed just like Jill's. It's clear: a vicious killer is on the loose, and they won't stop until they've claimed more victims.
But proving a teenager's innocence whilst tracking down a ruthless killer isn't Casey's only battle. As she's also in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a creepy escaped convict. All whilst the biggest snowstorm in a decade ravages the Outer Banks.
Not to mention her private life is getting more complicated. As she and Jericho near the finish line in adopting the two children, they rescued in an earlier case. And Tracy Casey's long lost daughter starts to pull away.
And with a story that gradually builds the suspense and keeps you guessing at every turn. This instalment is an absolute gem and I couldn't recommend it more!
Secrets We Fight by Kimberly Knight, Rachel Lyn Adams
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Secrets we Fight is a forbidden MM romance featuring secret service agent Rhett Davis. Who as a dedicated agent hopes to finally land a spot on President Donnelly's detail.
But unfortunately for him Rhett is assigned to protect one of the triplets. The gorgeous, openly gay Fallon.
Who can't help but notice how stunning Rhett is and as Rhett is the guy assigned to be at his side Fallon can't help but flirt a little.
And no matter how hard Rhett tries he can't stop himself from responding. Even though he knows the risks are catastrophic. If they push the boundaries from flirting to f***ing.
Yet, the more time they spend together the bigger the pull and they soon find themselves embarking on a relationship that has to stay secret.
However, Fallon's identical brother Finn has a secret too. One that is about to blow Rhett and Fallon's secret out of the water and change their lives forever.
And with a few spicy moments and a little danger. This was an enjoyable read. But honestly I didn't really feel the chemistry between Rhett and Fallon and I found the 'Baby Boy' nickname a little cringey.
But unfortunately for him Rhett is assigned to protect one of the triplets. The gorgeous, openly gay Fallon.
Who can't help but notice how stunning Rhett is and as Rhett is the guy assigned to be at his side Fallon can't help but flirt a little.
And no matter how hard Rhett tries he can't stop himself from responding. Even though he knows the risks are catastrophic. If they push the boundaries from flirting to f***ing.
Yet, the more time they spend together the bigger the pull and they soon find themselves embarking on a relationship that has to stay secret.
However, Fallon's identical brother Finn has a secret too. One that is about to blow Rhett and Fallon's secret out of the water and change their lives forever.
And with a few spicy moments and a little danger. This was an enjoyable read. But honestly I didn't really feel the chemistry between Rhett and Fallon and I found the 'Baby Boy' nickname a little cringey.