momobookdiary's reviews
633 reviews

The Little Girl in the Wardrobe by C.J. Grayson

4.0

C.J. Grayson’s The Little Girl in the Wardrobe is one of those thrillers that completely pulls you in from the first page. The opening scene - a desperate phone call from a terrified young girl hiding in a wardrobe - gave me chills and had me instantly hooked. From there, the story got darker, twistier, and even more gripping. 

 

The plot is packed with layers, and I loved how it kept me on my toes the whole way through. Just when I thought I’d figured something out, another twist would come along and make me question everything. Between the missing girl, the brutal murder, and all the secrets that get uncovered, there’s so much to sink your teeth into. 

 

That said, I did find the large cast of characters a little tricky to follow at times. The way first and last names were used interchangeably left me a bit confused, especially when some of the characters didn’t feel as fleshed out as I would’ve liked. It made it harder to connect with them fully, which I think is why I struggled to keep track of everyone at certain points. But honestly, that didn’t stop me from flying through the book in a single day. I couldn’t put it down! The pacing was relentless, and the twists just kept coming. Even when I felt slightly overwhelmed by the complexity, the tension and intrigue were so strong that I couldn’t tear myself away. 

 

If you enjoy dark, layered thrillers that keep you guessing right until the end, this one’s definitely worth picking up. Despite a few small challenges, I found it completely gripping, and it’s left me excited to see what C.J. Grayson comes up with next. 

If She's Found: A Novel by Alesha Dykema

4.0

Alesha Dykema's If She’s Found is a tense and gripping thriller that delves into every parent's worst nightmare: the disappearance of a child. Dykema pulls readers into the quiet town of Spencer, Michigan, where Andi and Charlie’s seemingly perfect life is shattered when their eight-year-old daughter, Bella, vanishes overnight. 

 

From the very beginning, it’s clear that these parents have something to hide, which immediately hooked me and kept me turning the pages to uncover their secrets. The story is packed with twists and suspense, and the fast-moving narrative made this a quicker, engaging read. While some details—like broader investigations or community involvement—are not explored in depth, this focus keeps the story tightly centred on Andi and Charlie’s experience, maintaining its momentum. 

 

The parents’ actions, especially regarding Bella’s disappearance, kept me guessing, and even by the end, I found myself puzzled by some of their choices. However, the atmosphere of unease that Dykema creates is gripping, and I was intrigued to see how everything would unfold. 

 

If you’re looking for a psychological thriller with unreliable narrators, an air of mystery, and plenty of tension, If She’s Found is a solid pick. Its compact length and sharp pacing make it an excellent choice for fans of fast-paced, twisty reads.

Horrible Husbands by Jessica Huntley

4.0

4-Star Review: A Gripping Tale of Friendship, Secrets, and Retribution

This novel was an engaging and unexpected read for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author was new to me, and I’ll admit I probably wouldn’t have picked this book up if it hadn’t been part of a book tour. But I’m so glad I did! 

 

The story follows three lifelong friends—Penny, Holly, and Lisa—who reunite for a rare girls’ weekend. On the surface, it’s a chance to relax and catch up, but even before the weekend begins, it’s clear there are secrets simmering under the surface. As the drinks flow, the layers of their lives are peeled back, revealing hidden truths. Each woman has suffered mistreatment from her partner, but out of shame, fear, or pride, they’ve kept their pain to themselves—until now. 

 

The dynamics of their friendship are beautifully written. Despite drifting apart over the years—living far away and communicating mostly through WhatsApp—they still share an unspoken bond. Once together, their old familiarity resurfaces, allowing them to read between the lines like no one else. 

 

After one too many drinks, the women hatch a bold, reckless plan: to reclaim their lives by getting rid of their toxic, manipulative husbands—permanently. What starts as a wine-fuelled fantasy takes a dark turn the next day, spiralling into a dangerous reality. Even with their pact in place, their unspoken truths continue to bubble beneath the surface, threatening to derail their plans. 

 

The plot was gripping, blending dark humour and suspense to create a story that kept me hooked. I particularly appreciated how the author captured the complexities of female friendship—especially how even the closest bonds can be strained by shame and silence. The premise—while far-fetched—is a cheeky, dramatic "what if" that many might joke about on a girls’ night, but here it’s taken to thrilling extremes. 

If I had one critique, it’s that some twists felt a touch predictable. That said, the engaging execution and the rich interplay between the three women more than made up for it. 

 

Overall, this was a compelling and entertaining read. If you’re in the mood for a mix of dark secrets, suspense, and the power of friendship, I’d highly recommend it!

The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke

4.0

The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke is a compelling western tale that masterfully blends adventure, mystery, and heartfelt character development. While this isn’t my usual genre, I’m so glad I took a chance on it as part of the virtual book tour – it turned out to be a refreshing and engaging read! 

 

The story centres on Josh Barnes, a man grappling with memory loss after a near-fatal encounter, and Amy Tanner, a determined young woman on a mission to find lost Jesuit gold to save her struggling family. Together, they embark on a perilous journey filled with unexpected twists, from facing ruthless bank robbers to uncovering eerie secrets on Devil’s Mountain. 

 

The rich, historical setting immediately drew me in, transporting me to a time when life’s values and challenges were so different from our own. While the pacing was slower than I typically prefer, the vivid storytelling kept me engaged throughout. Josh’s amnesia added a fascinating layer of mystery – though it initially made me cautious of his character, I soon found myself rooting for his redemption and his growing connection with Amy. Their evolving bond felt both authentic and deeply moving, adding a heartfelt touch to the high-stakes adventure. 

For fans of westerns or stories that combine danger, romance, and mystery, The Shattered Past is a must-read. It’s a tale of resilience, trust, and second chances that will keep you turning the pages. I’m thrilled to know this is the first in a new series, and I look forward to seeing what Josh and Amy uncover next! 

 

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of historical westerns, adventurous romances, and stories that blend mystery with heart-pounding action. 

 

I’m truly appreciative of the opportunity to be part of the blog tour for The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke. The tour runs from 15 to 24 January 2025, hosted by ZooLoo’s Book Tours on behalf of Janey Clarke and Blossom Spring Publishing. Thank you for introducing me to a new genre and a talented author! 

 

All views expressed are my own. This MOMOBOOKDIARY review, or parts of it, may also be shared on my social media channels and various book platforms. Links are accurate at the time of publication.

Wrapped in Winter: Seasons in Montana - Winter by Carolina Jax

5.0

Carolina Jax delivers a heartfelt and beautifully crafted story in Wrapped in Winter, blending emotional depth with just the right touch of spice. This small-town romance is a perfectly paced journey of love, healing, and second chances that will warm your heart even on the chilliest winter day. 

 

The plot is wonderfully balanced, pulling me in from the first page and keeping me captivated throughout. I loved how the story didn’t shy away from real emotions and struggles while still providing that warm, feel-good experience we all crave. January and Drake’s chemistry is palpable, and their journey to finding each other is both touching and genuine. 

 

One of the standout elements for me was the full cast of characters. The family dynamic in this story was beautifully portrayed, making me feel like I was part of their close-knit world. The family-run business added a layer of charm, and the snowy Montana town of Wintervale was so vividly described that I felt like I was right there with them, sipping hot cocoa by the fire. 

 

The relationship between Drake and January’s three-year-old daughter, Lily, was an absolute delight. Watching Lily form her own bond with him while the adults navigated their complicated feelings was heartwarming and added so much depth to the story. 

 

I laughed, I cried (happy tears!), and I finished the book with a huge smile on my face. It’s a perfect happily-ever-after that leaves you eager to explore the rest of the series and meet more of the Nilsson family. 

 

If you’re looking for a cozy, steamy contemporary romance with a strong found-family theme, Wrapped in Winter is the book for you. Carolina Jax has crafted a gem that’s sure to become a favourite. I wish I could pack my bags and move to Wintervale—it’s just that magical! 

 

Highly recommended for fans of small-town romance, single mom tropes, and stories that leave your heart full.

Sweet Little Lies by Leah Cupps

4.0

Sweet Little Lies by Leah Cupps delivers a delectable blend of mystery and romance with a dark chill. Set against the charming backdrop of a small-town bakery, this psychological thriller explores love, betrayal, and the secrets we hide - even from ourselves. 

Reese and Tucker’s whirlwind romance, shadowed by anonymous threats and unsettling mysteries, creates a story that keeps readers curious until the very end. As Reese delves deeper into the enigma surrounding Tucker's past - particularly the mysterious disappearance of his ex-fiancée - the stakes rise, leading to a satisfying conclusion. 

While I found the characters more flawed and self-interested than I expected for a small-town setting, their unlikable traits added an intriguing layer of complexity to the story. The tension builds subtly, making this a compelling mystery with just enough twists to keep you guessing. Leah Cupps’ straightforward writing style ensures the story is easy to follow, and I appreciated the well-crafted plot that propelled me to uncover the truth. 

If you enjoy psychological mysteries with complex characters and a splash of romance, Sweet Little Lies deserves a spot on your reading list. It’s ideal for readers who prefer suspense that simmers rather than boils over.

Love You to Death by Rowen Chambers

challenging dark tense fast-paced

5.0

A Disturbingly Real and Gripping Psychological Thriller

Love You to Death by Rowen Chambers is the most unsettling yet compelling book I have ever read. From the first page, I was drawn into Avery’s world. A life that seems perfect on the surface but is riddled with cracks as she begins piecing together fragments of her forgotten past.

The writing is so vivid and realistic that it felt as though I was living every moment alongside Avery. The creeping tension and emotional turmoil were so intense that I found myself physically reacting to the story - more than once, the hairs on my arms stood on end, and I even felt waves of nausea. That’s an experience no other book has ever evoked for me.

There were times when I had to put the book down because it felt overwhelmingly disturbing, but I couldn’t leave it unfinished. The need to uncover the truth about Avery’s memories and Logan’s role in her life was irresistible. The twists and turns kept me on edge, and the conclusion left me both stunned and deeply satisfied.

Rowen Chambers has crafted an unforgettable psychological thriller that gets under your skin and stays with you long after the final page. If you’re searching for a book that will captivate and unsettle you in equal measure, Love You to Death is an absolute must-read.

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Gaslighting

A Guilty Woman by Charlotte Barnes

4.0

Charlotte Barnes masterfully blurs the lines between reality and fiction in A Guilty Woman, a riveting psychological thriller that probes the murky depths of guilt, storytelling, and the secrets we carry. From the moment Caroline unapologetically pulls the trigger in a crowded hotel bar, readers are drawn into a taut narrative that is as much about the crime itself as it is about the enigmatic woman at its centre. 

 

Barnes’ decision to structure the novel around Caroline’s evolving narrative—a true-crime podcast, media frenzy, courtroom drama, and the manuscript she pens in prison—creates a layered storytelling approach that keeps readers hooked. The podcast element, in particular, injects a fresh, modern perspective, capturing the voyeuristic fascination society has with crimes and their perpetrators. 

 

Caroline is a complex protagonist. While her actions are undeniably horrific, Barnes carefully unveils her past through her writings and interactions, forcing readers to grapple with empathy and judgment. The ambiguity of her motives, combined with the question of how much her manuscript reveals truth or fabrications, elevates the tension and keeps you guessing. 

 

Barnes’ prose is sharp and evocative, painting vivid scenes of the courtroom, Caroline’s psychological turmoil, and the media frenzy surrounding the case. The pacing is relentless but balanced, giving readers moments to reflect before plunging into another shocking revelation. 

 

The novel's only drawback is its slightly rushed resolution. While the climax is satisfying, some threads could have been explored further, particularly around the manuscript’s final revelations and the fallout they spark. That said, this minor quibble does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story. 

 

Final Thoughts 

 

A Guilty Woman is a gripping exploration of guilt, media, and the stories we tell to make sense of the incomprehensible. Fans of psychological thrillers and true-crime narratives will find much to love here. Charlotte Barnes delivers a thought-provoking and addictive read that lingers long after the final page. 

Everyone in the Group Chat Dies by L.M. Chilton

3.0

L.M. Chilton’s Everyone in the Group Chat Dies is a fast-paced, twisty tale that hooks you with its unique premise: a dead friend texting from beyond the grave, threatening doom on a group of former flatmates harboring dark secrets. Set in the sleepy (and slightly sinister) town of Crowhurst, the story is laced with sardonic humor, witty observations, and an ominous undercurrent of dread.

The book is likely to resonate most with younger readers who thrive on the rhythm of social media and meme culture. Chilton leans into the quirks of modern communication—group chats, digital sleuthing, and the unspoken rules of online interactions—to craft a story that feels very "of the moment."

The dual-timeline structure adds layers to the narrative, peeling back the mystery of what the group “did” while tying it to the haunting reappearance of Esme. However, while the plot has plenty of intrigue and humor, I found it hard to connect with the characters. They’re sharp and snarky, but their emotional depth often feels secondary to the banter and twists.

Maybe I’m just outside the target audience, but the characters’ decisions sometimes felt frustrating or unrelatable. The humor, while enjoyable, couldn’t entirely compensate for the lack of emotional weight or development that might have made the reveals more impactful.

That said, Everyone in the Group Chat Dies is a quick and entertaining read for fans of dark comedy, suspense, and tech-infused storytelling. It won’t stay with you long after the last page, but it’s an enjoyable enough ride while it lasts.

An Italian Secret Island by Victoria Springfield

medium-paced

5.0

An Italian Island Secret by Victoria Springfield is a captivating read that transports you straight to the enchanting island of Ischia. The story is rich with substance and emotion, weaving together themes of family loyalty, hidden pasts, and personal sacrifices in a way that feels deeply authentic and moving. 

 

The vivid descriptions of Ischia are breathtaking; I could almost feel the warmth of the sun and see the beauty of the landmarks as I read. The author’s intimate knowledge and love for the island shine through, and I found myself frequently Googling the places mentioned to immerse myself even further—each time, they were exactly as described. Reading about this idyllic setting while snow fell outside my window made it all the more magical. 

 

What stood out most was how naturally the threads of the story came together. The narrative felt like life itself—unfolding in a way that was both simple and profound. The romance was understated and genuine, allowing the relationships to develop at a realistic and heartfelt pace, rather than overwhelming the story. 

 

The characters were wonderfully crafted—each one memorable and endearing, except for a single exception, but they don’t deserve any more of my attention! Ornella’s journey to confront her past and Alessia’s discovery of her family’s history were both poignant and inspiring. 

 

This book had the feel of a “proper” novel, the kind with real depth and heart, reminiscent of older stories that stay with you long after you’ve finished reading. 

 

Victoria Springfield has created a masterpiece that I will treasure and happily recommend to others.