momobookdiary's reviews
633 reviews

His Truth Her Truth by Noelle Holten

challenging dark tense fast-paced

5.0

I finished His Truth Her Truth in a single, breathless sitting - turning the final page after 1 a.m. and still reeling from the experience this morning. As someone who devours crime fiction, this book immediately stood out as a masterclass in tension, emotional depth, and narrative complexity. Noelle Holten has done it again, delivering a chilling and disturbingly real story of grief, manipulation, and devastating assumptions that spiral out of control. 

 

The story opens with a scene of utter chaos—two bodies, two knives, and far more questions than answers. Joe, a compassionate and driven charity worker, and Beth, a dedicated paralegal, appear to have been caught in a domestic dispute turned deadly. 

 

But as the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems. The truth is shrouded in a web of deception, grief, and dark secrets. Holten’s writing is masterful, pulling readers into the heart of the mystery and keeping them guessing until the very last page. 

 

Holten’s experience in the Probation Service adds a layer of authenticity to her storytelling, particularly in the way she captures the ripple effects of grief, mental health struggles, and systemic challenges. Her ability to handle sensitive topics like trauma, vulnerability, and domestic abuse with such care and emotional intelligence sets this book apart. 

 

What truly gripped me was the way Holten explored the power of assumptions and appearances. The characters are layered and deeply human, with motivations and flaws that make them feel heartbreakingly real. Each twist added to the mounting tension, and I found myself constantly questioning what I thought I knew about the characters and their circumstances. 

 

I physically couldn’t put this book down - the twists and turns demanded my full attention, and the final reveal left me speechless. It’s a story that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page, challenging your perceptions and making you think about the fragility of truth in the face of grief and tragedy. 

 

If you haven’t yet discovered Noelle Holten’s work, His Truth Her Truth is the perfect place to start. And for those already familiar with her brilliant storytelling, don’t miss her equally thrilling and addictive Maggie Jamieson series. 

 

Highly recommended for fans of authentic, hard-hitting crime fiction. This book is a masterpiece of emotional and psychological suspense. Bravo, Noelle Holten!

Shadows On The Levels by David Hodges

5.0

David Hodges' Shadows on the Levels (Detective Kate Hamblin Mystery #14) is an absolute must-read for fans of gripping, edge-of-your-seat thrillers! From the very first page, this book sinks its claws into you and doesn't let go. I was so immersed in the eerie atmosphere and the twists and turns that I found myself glancing over my shoulder and double-checking my locks while reading—it’s that intense!

The writing is fast-paced and captivating, weaving a story that's both unsettling and addictive. This was my first introduction to Detective Kate Hamblin, and now I can't wait to dive into the 13 previous books in the series to see how her character has evolved. Even so, this book works wonderfully as a standalone, pulling you into the chilling mysteries of Pagan's Clump and Lizzie Johnson’s haunting story.

The blend of a cold case, a suspicious death, and a sinister small-town secret kept me guessing until the jaw-dropping conclusion. The atmosphere Hodges creates is pitch-perfect for a scary thriller—so vivid it had me second-guessing every shadow and creak in my house as I read late into the night.

If you're looking for a thriller that will make your heart race, your pulse quicken, and your mind spin, Shadows on the Levels is a brilliant choice. This book is a reminder of why we love thrillers—it’s a hauntingly good time! Highly recommended.

The Ski Resort by Catherine O'Connell

medium-paced

4.0

Snow, Suspense, and Secrets: A Thrilling Ride on The Ski Resort’s Slopes!

Catherine O’Connell’s The Ski Resort is a compelling thriller that immerses readers in the glamorous yet perilous world of Aspen. The opening is unforgettable, plunging us into Greta’s disoriented recovery from an avalanche and the devastating news of her best friend’s death. From there, the book unravels a gripping mystery filled with secrets, danger, and the darker side of the seemingly perfect ski community.

What truly stands out is the vivid, authentic depiction of Aspen and skiing culture. It’s clear that O’Connell has a deep passion for and knowledge of this world, and she brings it to life with atmospheric descriptions that skiers will adore. For non-skiers like me, the detailed terminology and setting were initially a bit of a challenge, but they lend a richness and authenticity that will delight those who can relate.

The pacing builds steadily, and the second half of the book delivers thrilling twists and high-stakes tension. O’Connell’s ability to craft flawed, relatable characters like Greta adds emotional depth, making the journey all the more engaging.

While my lack of familiarity with skiing meant I didn’t connect fully with every aspect, that’s a reflection of my perspective rather than the book itself. For readers who love atmospheric mysteries and unique settings—or for anyone who’s ever dreamed of hitting the slopes—The Ski Resort is a thrilling ride you won’t want to miss.

All That Matters by Chris Hoy

adventurous challenging emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

Sir Chris Hoy’s memoir, All That Matters, is a testament to courage, resilience, and unwavering determination in the face of life’s most difficult challenges. As an Edinburgh native, I vividly recall the pride we all felt celebrating his medal victories and the golden postboxes that marked those moments throughout the city. When the news of his cancer diagnosis broke, it felt personal—this wasn’t just a name on the screen, but a fellow Edinburgher who had brought so much pride to our community. I felt compelled to hear his story, and it exceeded every expectation.

Listening to Chris Hoy narrate his memoir was mesmerizing. His voice brought a raw intimacy to the experience, making it feel as though he was sitting right beside me, sharing his triumphs, struggles, and reflections. The way he seamlessly wove together his past accomplishments with the present challenges of living with a terminal illness was both powerful and moving. His candid discussion of his wife Sarra’s recent MS diagnosis and its impact on their family added profound emotional depth.

All That Matters is far more than a chronicle of sporting triumphs or a battle with Stage 4 cancer. It’s a deeply moving tribute to his family - his wife, Sarra, and their two young children. The opening chapter shattered my heart and had me reaching for tissues. But as Hoy guides us through his journey of acceptance, the memoir transforms into a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of hope and the importance of cherishing life’s fleeting moments. Hoy’s remarkable ability to face unimaginable challenges while still finding light in the darkest times is truly inspiring.

One detail that stays with me is the Blossom Tree project Chris and Sarra created with their children - a beautiful and enduring symbol of resilience and focus during treatment. Seeing Sarra’s recent Instagram post featuring images of the tree made it even more poignant and tangible. From now on, every blossom tree I see will remind me of this remarkable family. 🌺

Hoy’s memoir offers an unflinching view of reality. With honesty, compassion, and humility, he shares his journey, emphasizing the power of resilience, love, and living fully in the present. Whether you’ve battled cancer, supported someone through tough times, or simply need a new perspective on life’s challenges, this book offers an uplifting and deeply inspiring message.

For me, this is perhaps the most moving and inspirational book I’ve ever read. Hoy’s bravery, coupled with his humble acceptance of the future, resonates profoundly. His ability to find meaning and strength in the face of personal challenges is deeply moving. The blend of vulnerability and quiet wisdom makes this book both deeply personal and widely relatable. By the end, I was left with a renewed sense of gratitude and a firm commitment to embrace the present moment.

If you’re looking for a story of resilience, hope, and humanity, All That Matters will not disappoint. It’s a raw, emotional, and ultimately uplifting journey that stays with you long after the last page. Sir Chris Hoy’s extraordinary life, paired with his unwavering optimism and strength, stands as a powerful source of inspiration.

Wishing the Hoy family many more years of shared love and strength 🌺

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Cancer, Terminal illness

New Beginnings and Grand Openings: McBlack's Treats Cafe Cozy Mysteries by A.R. Winters, A.R. Winters

4.0

If you love curling up with a story full of warm pastries, quirky characters, and just the right amount of intrigue, New Beginnings and Grand Openings by A.R. Winters will be your next must-read. The first in a new cozy mysteries series, it delivers exactly what fans crave: a charming small-town setting, a determined amateur sleuth, and just the right blend of mystery and whimsy.

Tiffany and Rosie’s dream of a quieter life in Mariposas quickly turns into anything but calm. With big plans for their Bakery Cafe, they envision cupcakes and coffee—not acts of sabotage and murder. As Tiff’s investigative instincts kick in, readers are drawn into a web of secrets hiding behind the town’s idyllic facade. Winters expertly balances suspense with charm, keeping readers hooked until the very end.

The cozy cafe feels so real you can almost smell the cinnamon wafting from the ovens, and the banter between Tiffany and Rosie adds a lighthearted charm that offsets the tension of the mystery. The supporting characters, including the quirky townsfolk, round out the cast and deepen the narrative.

The mystery itself is well-paced, full of red herrings and surprises that keep you guessing. While seasoned mystery fans might predict a few twists, the journey is so delightful it hardly matters. My only critique is that the story takes a little while to build momentum, but once the action starts, it’s impossible to put down.

With its mix of charm, suspense, and delicious descriptions, New Beginnings and Grand Openings is a recipe for success. Fans of cozy mysteries will find themselves eagerly awaiting their next visit to Mariposas—and the next slice of drama.

The First Half by Gabby Logan

5.0

Gabby Logan's The First Half is an absolute gem, particularly in audiobook format. Narrated by Gabby herself, this memoir feels like a warm and candid conversation with one of the most inspiring and accomplished figures in sports media. Her engaging narration breathes life into her journey, from her early days as a competitive gymnast to her meteoric rise in a male-dominated industry, where she has become a trailblazer for women in broadcasting. 

Gabby’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable. She has not only broken barriers in her field but also redefined what it means to be a resilient, ambitious, and authentic role model. What makes her story so special is the way she shares it - with humility, humour, and an openness that draws you in. She doesn’t shy away from the challenges she’s faced, offering honest reflections on family, ambition, and navigating setbacks, while always maintaining her trademark wit and positivity. 

Her recollections of the heart-breaking loss of her brother, her father’s struggles with alcoholism, and the sexism she encountered in her career are deeply moving. Yet, these moments are balanced with joyful anecdotes, fascinating behind-the-scenes glimpses into her life, and inspiring insights that showcase her incredible strength and determination. 

Listening to Gabby tell her own story makes it even more personal and powerful. Her passion for her work, her commitment to breaking boundaries, and her ability to connect with others shine through in every chapter. The First Half isn’t just a memoir; it’s a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and hard work. Gabby’s story is a celebration of what it means to embrace life’s challenges, learn from them, and come out stronger. 

I was completely absorbed from start to finish and came away feeling inspired, uplifted, and full of admiration for everything Gabby has accomplished. This is a must-listen for fans of Gabby Logan, sports lovers, or anyone looking for a motivating, heartfelt story. Highly, highly recommended!

The Family Next Door by Charlotte Stevenson

4.5

This was my first time reading Charlotte Stevenson, and all I can say is WOW! Tense, chilling, and completely engrossing, The Family Next Doorhad me hooked from the very first page. If you’re looking for an original, dark, and shocking psychological thriller, you won’t be disappointed.

The pacing is spot-on—medium to fast—with things spiraling out of control early on, only to grow even more intriguing as the layers of mystery are peeled back. 

Viola, a retired and widowed older neighbour, starts off as your typical well-meaning ‘nosey neighbour,’ but she quickly becomes tangled in the unnerving lives of the family who’ve moved into Number 33.

At first glance, everything about Rhys, Wendy, and their daughter Mirabelle appears picture-perfect. But soon, cracks begin to show. Wendy seems fragile and detached. Rhys is brimming with hostility. And Mirabelle? Let’s just say this eight-year-old gave me chills—eerie and unsettling in the best way.

What I loved most was the sense of unease that simmered throughout. The dual POV from Viola and Mirabelle added depth to their characters and heightened the suspense. I was constantly speculating, eager to unravel the mystery behind the locked room and the disturbing secrets hiding within Number 33. Just when I thought I had the answers, the plot would twist and turn in unexpected ways—keeping me firmly on the edge of my seat.

The writing is evocative and atmospheric, leaving me with a lingering sense of dread as I raced towards the shocking conclusion. This isn’t your typical ‘nosy neighbour’ thriller filled with petty disputes; it’s far darker and more gripping, offering an experience that felt truly unique.

If you’re after a creepy, heart-pounding tale with intricately developed characters and an unpredictable plot, The Family Next Door delivers. It’s easy to devour, impossible to put down, and will leave you questioning everything until the very last page—and beyond.

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney

5.0

Alice Feeney has done it again! Beautiful Ugly is an absolutely unputdownable psychological thriller that blew my mind from start to finish. From the riveting first chapter to the unforgettable conclusion, this book had me hooked, questioning everything I thought I knew. Having loved Daisy Darker for its brilliance, I couldn’t wait to dive into Alice Feeney’s latest novel—and it exceeded every one of my high expectations!

The story opens with Grady Green, a writer waiting to hear if his latest novel has made the New York Times Bestseller list. His life should be perfect—but it’s anything but. When his wife Abby mysteriously vanishes after stopping to help a woman on the road home, Grady’s world is turned upside down. A year later, grief-stricken, broken, and unable to write, he’s offered a lifeline: a chance to work on the remote Scottish island of Amberley. But nothing on this isolated island is as it seems.

The atmospheric writing is exceptional. Feeney’s descriptions of Amberley make it feel like a character in its own right—moody, enigmatic, and eerily alive. I could almost hear the crash of the waves, feel the mist creeping in from the cliffs, and sense the crackle of the walkie-talkies as Grady delves deeper into the island’s mysteries. The isolation and silence are used so masterfully, with moments of calm shattered by tension-filled twists that left me breathless.

The island’s oddball residents are brilliantly crafted—unpredictable and unforgettable. Their strange behavior only adds to the sinister, off-kilter vibe that permeates the story. Is someone playing mind games with Grady? Or is it his grief, insomnia, and alcohol-clouded mind distorting reality? The line between what’s real and imagined is razor-thin, and I loved every second of trying to figure it out.

The stormy, windswept island of Amberley is the perfect backdrop for this unsettling, twisty tale. Every shadow, every crackle of static on a walkie-talkie, and every silence had me on edge as the lines between reality and illusion blurred for Grady—and for me as a reader.

Feeney’s trademark twists are jaw-dropping, and Beautiful Ugly delivers them in spades. The tension builds relentlessly, and the conclusion is nothing short of perfection—deliciously satisfying and thought-provoking.

This is more than just a thriller; it’s a masterclass in atmosphere and storytelling. If you love richly descriptive settings, unreliable narrators, and unpredictable twists, this book is for you. Feeney has once again proven why she’s the queen of unforgettable domestic thrillers.

Highly, highly recommend—don’t walk, RUN to grab your copy of Beautiful Ugly!

The Cleaner by Mary Watson

4.0

Mary Watson’s debut adult novel, The Cleaner, is a masterclass in suspense, delivering a gripping and original storyline that had me hooked from the very start.  Without fully reading the blurb beforehand—the proof cover alone was enough to draw me in—I was immediately drawn into Esmie’s world: a cleaner who’s far more than she appears.

The tension as she navigates the secrets of the wealthy had my heart racing, constantly fearing she’d be caught snooping. Watson paints a vivid picture of a secluded street of posh houses on the edge of town, where everyone seems to be lying, hiding secrets not only from their neighbors but also from their own families and spouses. These tangled webs of deceit added layer upon layer to the story, making it even more engrossing.

Watson plays a brilliant game with the reader, putting each character in the spotlight at one point or another, creating a constant guessing game about who is responsible for the actions Esmie is seeking revenge for. I thought I had everything figured out early on, suspecting I knew who was behind it all—but I was wrong. Watson’s clever plotting kept me second-guessing myself, and just when I thought I had it all figured out, there was a twist that completely changed everything. It was a brilliant, unexpected turn that took the story in a direction I never saw coming.

Esmie’s journey is as emotional as it is thrilling, and her relentless determination kept me turning pages late into the night. The pacing is impeccable, and the narrative brims with tension, making it impossible to put down. Watson has crafted a story that’s both unique and utterly unforgettable.

The Cleaner is perfect for fans of psychological thrillers with a fresh twist. Mark your calendars for 16 January — you won’t want to miss this one!

Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding

3.0