momobookdiary's reviews
632 reviews

Murder at Ardaig Castle by Daniel Sellers, Danielle Sellers

4.0

Daniel Sellers delivers a gripping locked-room-style mystery set in a storm-battered Scottish castle. Murder at Ardaig Castle is the fifth book in the Detective Lola Harris Mysteries series, but it works well as a standalone for those new to the series—like me. 

 

The novel follows Detective Lola Harris as she takes a much-needed break at an exclusive wellness retreat in the Scottish Highlands. But relaxation quickly turns to tension when she learns of the sinister poison pen letters that have been sent to staff over recent weeks. When a body is discovered within the castle, Lola is forced into action, navigating a web of secrets, grudges, and hidden pasts. With the storm cutting off access to the castle, the pressure mounts as she races to unmask the murderer before they strike again. 

 

From the outset, the novel hooked me. A cut-off castle, a murderer on the loose, and a varied cast of characters—perfect ingredients for a classic whodunnit. Sellers does a fantastic job of crafting an atmospheric setting, using the castle’s hidden passageways, dark hallways, and eerie basement to heighten the tension. His descriptive writing pulls the reader straight into the howling wind and relentless rain outside, making the setting feel as much a character as the people within its walls. 

 

Speaking of characters, the guests at the exclusive retreat are suitably wealthy, entitled, and largely unlikable, which only adds to the intrigue. There’s no shortage of suspects, and I was surprised by the final reveal. The mystery is well-paced, with plenty of twists and red herrings to keep you guessing. 

 

While I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, there were moments when the pacing felt drawn out. Perhaps my unfamiliarity with the series played a role, as I lacked prior connection with Lola Harris. However, this book stands on its own merit, and I appreciated the depth Sellers brought to his protagonist. 

I was initially drawn to this book without seeing the cover, but once I did, I was thrilled—it perfectly captures the dark and brooding landscape I love in a mystery thriller. If you enjoy a well-crafted whodunnit with an eerie, atmospheric setting and a locked-room mystery twist, Murder at Ardaig Castle is an ideal read for a cold, stormy night. 

 

This is a well-written, immersive mystery that keeps you engaged from start to finish. Though a bit drawn out in places, the novel delivers a compelling plot, strong atmosphere, and an enjoyable puzzle to unravel. I’d definitely consider reading more from the series to get better acquainted with Detective Lola Harris.

You Shouldn't Have Done That by Liz Alterman

5.0

Dark, Twisted, and Utterly Addictive!

You Shouldn’t Have Done That is the kind of thriller that sinks its claws into you and doesn’t let go. I flew through the pages, desperate to uncover the truth, only to find myself second-guessing everything. The tension is relentless, the secrets are endless, and the shifting loyalties make for an absolutely gripping read. 

 

The Whitakers—Jane, Wade, Cal, and Emerson—and the Chapmans—Ivy, Greg, Brad, and Max—have been close for years, ever since Jane and Ivy met when their sons started preschool together. That moment set the path for the future, intertwining their families in ways that went far beyond playdates and school events. Over the years, they vacationed together, celebrated milestones together, and remained part of each other’s daily lives. But when Cal goes missing after a ski trip gone wrong, everything changes. Suspicion takes hold, and both families find themselves on opposite sides of an unthinkable situation. 

 

Brad and Cal had been skiing together when Brad was injured on the slopes—an old injury flaring up and leaving him stranded, in pain, and needing medical assistance. But Cal didn’t stop to help. Instead, he left Brad behind and carried on his way. Later, when Brad made it home after receiving treatment, he assumed Cal had simply gone off on his own—as he often did. But this time, Cal never returned. And when the police get involved, all eyes turn to Brad. 

 

And then there’s Jane. Jane. She is that character. The one who thinks she’s better than everyone else (she’s not), who puts on a show of perfection while everyone around her sees through it, who acts like she’s in control of everything but has no idea how others really see her. She’s spent years looking down on Ivy, but she’s also spent years shaping Cal into someone who believes he’s untouchable. And as the story unfolds, the consequences of that become impossible to ignore. 

 

The real brilliance of this book is how it slowly peels back the layers of these families, revealing the cracks that have been there all along. Loyalties shift, friendships crumble, and every character is forced to confront truths they’d rather keep buried. Just when you think you know where things are heading, the story twists, leaving you questioning everything. The psychological tension is unbelievable, and the way the author explores privilege, perception, and how far people will go to protect their own is masterful. 

 

This is everything I love in a psychological thriller: messy relationships, deep-rooted tension, morally grey characters, and a story that keeps you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page. A dark, twisted, and utterly unputdownable read—I loved it!

The Awful Truth About The Sushing Prize by Marco Ocram

4.0

If you think you’ve read every twist on detective fiction, think again. The Awful Truth About The Sushing Prize is an absolutely bonkers, laugh-out-loud parody that gleefully tosses the rulebook out the window while somehow still delivering a cleverly written, entertaining story.

The book follows Marco Ocram, both the author and the protagonist, who possesses a ridiculous but brilliant superpower: whatever he writes instantly becomes reality. The problem? Marco is an idiot. A well-meaning, egotistical, totally clueless idiot who stumbles through his own plot with hilarious results. His sidekick, Como, tries (and often fails) to keep things on track as the two unravel a bizarre murder mystery and chase the prestigious Sushing Prize.

This is not a book to skim. The humour is fast, sharp, and packed with clever details that deserve attention. Marco Ocram playfully pokes fun at detective fiction tropes without being condescending, making this a joy for both fans and critics of the genre. The storytelling style is unconventional—at first, it feels chaotic, even irritating, but then you settle into the rhythm, start laughing, and by the end, you realise you’ve had a fantastic time.

It’s been a while since a book had me laughing out loud, but this one did—multiple times! The absurdity, the meta-fictional madness, and the self-aware ridiculousness make it a truly unique read. I immediately bought the other two books in the series because I need more of this madness in my life.

If you love humour, originality, and books that don’t take themselves too seriously, this one’s for you. Marco Ocram is the dumbest genius you’ll ever meet, and his world is a wild ride worth taking.

Suddenly Tempted by Katie Evergreen

5.0

Suddenly Tempted by Katie Evergreen is 🏔️🔥 💰⛷️❤️✨💕🌨️🏚️🌶️💍💞📖💫

Suddenly Tempted by Katie Evergreen is an exhilarating, heart-racing romance that had me hooked from the first page! This book delivers everything you could want!  It has enemies-to-lovers tension, forced proximity, and a billionaire with a bad attitude who turns out to have a lot more depth than his public persona suggests. 

 

Devlin Storm is every bit the arrogant, reckless playboy the world sees—at first. But as the story unfolds, his layers are peeled back, revealing a man shaped by his past, and the more we learn, the easier it is to fall for him. Then there’s Darcy—strong, kind, perceptive—exactly the kind of woman who challenges Devlin and shows him what life could be if he let someone in. 

 

Their journey from enemies to reluctant allies to something deeper is perfectly paced, with real, heartfelt chemistry that leaps off the page.  The survival aspect adds a thrilling edge—there’s never a dull moment—but what truly makes this book shine is the emotional depth. It’s not just about romance; it’s about two people learning, healing, and growing together. And while there’s a sprinkle of spice, it’s tastefully done, adding to the story without overpowering it. 

 

The ending? Absolutely perfect. Not only were all loose ends wrapped up, but the glimpse into their future was a wonderful surprise. I loved that it wasn’t predictable but still felt completely satisfying. 

 

If you love adventure, romance with substance, and characters who evolve in a way that feels real, Suddenly Tempted is a must-read. Katie Evergreen has won me over—I’ll absolutely be reading more from her! 

Miss Burnham and the Loose Thread by Lynn Knights

5.0

Miss Burnham and the Loose Thread by Lynn Knight is an absolute joy to read. This fantastic debut novel is a warm, exciting, and heartwarming hug of a book. Filled with humour, adventure, and heart, it's a brilliant mix of cosy crime and historical fiction that kept me thoroughly entertained.

Set in south-east London in 1925, the story follows Rose Burnham, a talented dressmaker who runs her own business alongside her sisters Ginny and Alice. When their loyal client, Miss Holmes, is swindled out of her inheritance by a deceptive suitor, Rose takes it upon herself to uncover the truth and recover the stolen money. What begins as a thrilling adventure soon reveals deeper layers of danger and intrigue.

The three Burnham sisters are delightful characters, each with their own charm and strengths. Rose's determination and quick thinking make her an engaging protagonist, while her sisters add warmth and humour to the story. The bond between the siblings is beautifully portrayed, and I loved the way they stood together to protect both their business and their community.

The book beautifully evokes the post-war era, highlighting themes of social change, female resilience, and the challenges women encountered in business. Lynn Knight’s extensive knowledge of social history and fashion, developed through her years of research and writing, shines through in her rich descriptions of fabrics, dress designs, and the meticulous craftsmanship behind garments for special occasions. Drawing from her expertise in exploring women's lives through cherished heirlooms and everyday objects, Knight adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, fully immersing the reader in 1920s London.

I particularly enjoyed the vivid depiction of society’s mixed attitudes towards women entering the workforce. While some characters championed independence, others clung to outdated views, which added a layer of realism and tension to the story. The glimpse into the lives of women living in hostels, navigating financial instability, and finding their place in a world still reeling from the Great War was both informative and thought-provoking.

The mystery itself was cleverly plotted, with enough twists to keep me guessing. While it carried the charm of a traditional golden-age detective novel, there was also a refreshing depth to the characters and themes explored. The balance between mystery and historical fiction felt seamless, and I appreciated the slower pace that allowed the characters and their world to shine.

This book would make a wonderful Sunday evening BBC historical drama. It’s comforting yet insightful, warm yet adventurous, and undeniably charming. I sincerely hope there are many more Burnham sisters’ mysteries to come because I’d love to spend more time in their company.

Miss Burnham and the Loose Thread is an excellent read, transporting the reader to another time and place. If you enjoy historical fiction, cosy crime, or stories about strong women forging their own paths, this book is not to be missed.

The Summer of Starting Over by Savannah Carlisle

emotional inspiring reflective relaxing 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

From the very first page of The Summer of Starting Over, I was pulled into a world that felt like home, one I never wanted to leave. Savannah Carlisle’s writing has a rare ability to make you feel like you're not just reading a story, but living it. I read the book in a single sitting, unable to put it down, and as soon as Nashville was mentioned, I couldn’t help but press play on my country music playlist to set the mood. This book spoke to my heart in ways I wasn’t expecting. The themes of second chances, rediscovery, and finding the courage to face your past resonated deeply with me, and I found myself transported from the cold, grey skies of Scotland to the sun-drenched streets of Big Dune Island, right alongside Callie and Jesse.

The author’s vivid descriptions of Big Dune Island made me feel like I was walking the cobblestone streets, breathing in the salty ocean air, and hearing the gentle hum of the island’s rhythms. It felt so real, so alive, that I was right there with the characters, feeling everything they were feeling. I could almost taste the sunshine and the nostalgia that filled Callie’s return to her home, a place she hadn’t seen in years.

Savannah Carlisle’s prose weaves emotions so seamlessly that each page feels like it’s speaking directly to the heart. The way she handles grief, love, and the complexities of second chances is nothing short of magical. I found myself feeling deeply connected to Callie’s journey—not just because of her story, but because of how real her emotions were. Her struggle to face the past, the loss of her parents, and the love she had left behind mirrored the emotions we all experience when confronting what we’ve buried deep within ourselves.

What truly made this book special for me was how it captured the essence of finding your way back to yourself. Callie’s journey wasn’t just about rediscovering her love for music but about rediscovering her roots, her family, and the place that shaped her. For someone like me, whose heart has always belonged to country music, I could feel the weight of Callie’s love for her hometown and her roots. It made me reflect on my own life—how country music has always been the soundtrack to my experiences—and how coming home to where it all began can be a powerful form of healing.

The slow-burn romance between Callie and Jesse was pure magic. Their connection felt so natural, so undeniable, and yet tinged with the rawness of past wounds. I adored the way their love story unfolded—quietly, with so much tenderness, honesty, and unspoken understanding. Jesse, with his quiet strength and unwavering loyalty, became a character I couldn't help but fall in love with, and watching Callie face the ghosts of her past while rebuilding her future with him was a joy I won’t soon forget.

By the end of the story, I found myself wishing that Callie was real—so we could hear the beautiful song she writes in the book. The song, like the book itself, would be a masterpiece of healing, love, and new beginnings. The Summer of Starting Over left me with more than just a good story—it left me with a sense of warmth, of having experienced something deeply personal. It was as if I had not just read about Big Dune Island, but had lived it, breathed it, and found a part of myself within it. Savannah Carlisle’s gift for crafting characters that feel like family, for writing prose that moves you, and for creating a setting that becomes a character in itself, makes this book one I will hold close for a long time.

This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience, one that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a heartfelt journey filled with love, loss, and the beauty of starting over.  I would give this 5 times 5 stars if I could!

Before you go, I’d love to know: if you could create a playlist for The Summer of Starting Over, what songs would you include? Drop me a note on instagram!  A soundtrack for this story would be the perfect way to continue the journey! 

Hired by my rich highland husband by Beatrice Bradshaw

emotional funny inspiring relaxing 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? Yes

5.0

Wow! What a fantastic read! Beatrice Bradshaw has absolutely outdone herself with Hired By My Rich Highland Husband – hands down her best yet! It has everything 💰💪💍🏰💥🌶️🎹🔥💖💫 and more! 

 

I adored every bit of this story. The lead characters, Max and Rowan, were simply wonderful. Max, the brooding whisky heir with his sharp suits and serious demeanour, and Rowan, the spirited journalist with her chaotic energy and Doc Martens, made the perfect opposites-attract pairing. Their chemistry sizzled from the start, and watching their relationship develop from a calculated business arrangement to something deeply emotional was an absolute delight. 

 

The supporting characters added so much charm to the story as well, fitting perfectly into the Highland setting and adding layers of warmth and humour. Each one felt authentic, and their interactions brought Dunmarach Castle to life. Speaking of the setting – wow! The Scottish Highlands were beautifully described, and I could almost feel the cool air and see the rugged landscape. I even found myself looking up the A87 on a map to imagine where the castle might have been located – approximately three hours from Glasgow, perhaps somewhere I’d go for a drive to find one day? 

 

The romance itself was paced perfectly. The spice was there, but it was done just right – well-timed and meaningful, adding depth rather than distraction. And I have to mention that unforgettable scene involving a grand piano – unforgettable in all the best ways! The emotional journey Rowan and Max took had me fully invested, and when the tension finally reached its peak, it was oh-so-satisfying. 

 

I couldn’t get enough of this story! If only life worked like this in reality... maybe I'd have my own Highland (or Lowland!) husband by now. Until then, I’ll just keep dreaming thanks to Beatrice Bradshaw's beautifully crafted love stories. 

 

Absolutely five stars – I can’t recommend it enough! 

The Coat Of Arms Killer by Frances Lloyd

4.0

The Fitzwarren Family’s Deadly Secrets – Who Will Survive? 

 

The Coat of Arms Killer is the twelfth installment in the Detective Inspector Jack Dawes Mystery series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. 

Having not read any of Frances Lloyd’s previous books, I found it simple enough to dive straight into this mystery without feeling lost. 

 

The story revolves around the wealthy and influential Fitzwarren family, whose power dynamics are as tangled as their many secrets. At the center of it all is Lady Beatrice, the formidable matriarch, who has held control over the family since her husband’s tragic boating accident. But when a portrait of the late Lord Fitzwarren is unveiled at Lady Beatrice’s seventieth birthday celebration, the event takes a shocking turn—the painting has been defaced with a dagger lodged in the subject’s chest, and beneath it, the word "Killer" is scrawled in blood-red paint. 

 

Detective Jack Dawes, who happens to be present, finds himself pulled into the investigation. With Lord Hugo—Lady Beatrice’s son and heir—suspiciously missing, tensions run high, and the family’s well-guarded secrets begin to unravel. But the Fitzwarrens aren’t exactly forthcoming, making Jack’s job all the more difficult as he races to uncover the truth before more than just paint is spilled. 

 

While the mystery itself kept me engaged, I wouldn’t necessarily describe the characters as likeable. The Fitzwarrens, in particular, seem more concerned with wealth and status than with each other, which makes it no surprise that their family is rife with hidden betrayals. Their cutthroat nature added an intriguing layer to the story, but it also made it hard to truly root for any of them. That said, I enjoyed the way the secrets slowly unraveled, and the mystery was well-paced, keeping me guessing throughout. 

 

Overall, The Coat of Arms Killer is an intriguing whodunnit with a compelling mystery at its core. While the characters may not be the most sympathetic, their complex relationships and the eerie atmosphere of their ancestral home make for an entertaining read. I’d be curious to see how Detective Jack Dawes handles future cases! 

THE NEIGHBOR by N.L. Hinkens

4.0

The Neighbor is a gripping and well-written read that kept me engaged from start to finish. The vivid descriptions and unsettling atmosphere pull you into the story, making you question every character’s motives. From the outset, there’s a growing sense of unease—not just about the new neighbours, Gary and Beth, but also about Kay, the woman keeping an unusually close eye on them. 

 

As president of the Homeowners’ Association, Kay takes her role as the neighbourhood watchdog very seriously—perhaps a little too seriously. She prides herself on being a friendly, helpful neighbour, but what she sees as kindness could just as easily be read as overbearing interference. She’s 

convinced something is off about Gary and Beth, but is she picking up on genuine red flags, or is her imagination running wild? Her husband, Warren, mostly humours her suspicions to keep the peace, but Kay becomes increasingly determined to get to the truth. 

 

Gary’s behaviour certainly raises suspicions—he’s domineering, often speaking for Beth and keeping a firm grip on their interactions—while Beth remains quiet and withdrawn, giving off ‘controlled wife’ vibes. Kay becomes convinced Beth is in danger, but as a reader, you’re left wondering whether Kay’s instincts are right or if she’s leaping to conclusions. Some of her assumptions had me cringing, but that only added to the intrigue. 

The suspense builds well throughout, and just when I thought I had things figured out, an unexpected twist turned everything on its head! While some moments felt a little far-fetched, and the tone occasionally leaned towards a cosy mystery rather than a full-blown psychological thriller, I was thoroughly entertained. 

 

Would I want Kay as my neighbour? Absolutely not. But did I enjoy the story? Definitely! 

Fair Play by Louise Hegarty

3.0

Louise Hegarty’s Fair Play begins with an intriguing premise—a birthday celebration, a murder mystery party, and a group of friends navigating shifting relationships. Abigail and her brother Benjamin have always been close, but when the morning after the party arrives, Benjamin is found dead, and suddenly, reality takes an unexpected turn.

The novel starts off strong, shrouded in mystery and emotional depth. However, as the story transitions into a more traditional locked-room mystery—complete with an eminent detective, a butler, a gardener, and a housekeeper—the initial grip it had on me started to fade. While the book remains well-written and inventive, the shift in style and the introduction of additional characters made it feel less engaging for me personally.

That said, Fair Play is undoubtedly a creative and unique debut. It explores not just the mechanics of a murder mystery but also the hidden lives we think we know and the secrets buried beneath the surface of close relationships. For those who enjoy experimental takes on classic mystery structures, this book may prove to be a rewarding read.