nebulous07's reviews
297 reviews

The Lie by Kathryn Croft

challenging dark mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? N/A
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

"The Lie" is my first book by Kathryn Croft. The Adams family have moved from London to Surry and mark this by having a barbecue. Rose Nyler is Jacob Adam's girlfriend. She's a talented songwriter, a motivated and disciplined student and a close confidence of Ava Adam, Jacob's sister. Jacob walks his girlfriend to her place at the end of the night, and then...Rose goes missing. Jacob is the person of interest as he was the last person, and his chronic lies aren't helping his case. But is there more to this disappearance? 

Kathryn Croft has sprinkled the breadcrumbs across multiple POVs, and its execution was impressive and brilliant. The sad and tense environment is carried throughout the book. As this is a psychological thriller, all the characters are morally grey, which fuels deception, motive, secrets and suspicion. The connections between the characters tie well, and the level of detail makes it an enjoyable read. However, for me, I deciphered the accused halfway through the book. As a result, when the twist was revealed, it wasn't shocking but warped. 

If you're a fan of domestic thrillers, suspense and psychological thrillers, give this book a go! 

Thank you, NetGalley & Bookouture, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily,

The Hook by Victoria Helen Stone

challenging dark emotional mysterious 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

3.75

The Hook is a rollercoaster ride that follows the motives of Katherine, Geneva and Luz. These three women come from different backgrounds but have been wronged by a spouse, an ex or a chameleon colleague. Guided by Maggie, these women have their targets and must complete their assignments. However, loyalties are tested when one of the targets dies, and one woman is held suspicious of murder. The author delivers a well-paced plot, and the world-building is immersive, except for the character descriptions. However, I felt the story was incomplete as it doesn't show how Maggie prepares the women for these tasks. It became repetitive how Maggie was their key to redemption and revenge. It would have been wonderful to gain Maggie's perspective as she is the driving force behind The Hook. Katherine's perspective was compelling out of the three women, and her journey was intense. Geneva and Luz shine in their own right and ultimately integrate with Katherine's journey. The ending was realistic and slightly expected. This is a 3.75-star read. 

Thank you, NetGalley & Lake Union Publishing, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily. 

The Kingmaker by Kennedy Ryan

dark emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective 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

4.25

This is my first Kennedy Ryan book. I never imagined time travelling across so many countries (The United States, The Netherlands and Antarctica!!), the rollercoaster of emotions and cheering on one of the most well-rounded pairings I have ever encountered. Let me introduce you to Lennix Moon Hunter & Maxim Kingsman Cade. Kennedy Ryan presents an instant attraction, but this evolves organically and passionately over the time gaps infused throughout the book (a big yay for me, given the plot). Lennix Moon Hunter gives some serious Olivia Pope energy. Fans of Scandal will relate to this passionate, driven woman with hidden vulnerabilities, trauma and pain she bears as an Indigenous woman. Maxim Cade is one of my favourite characters who is relentless, patient, ambitious and innovative. Maxim and Lennix find themselves on the opposite when success, riches, struggles, and resistance are evaluated; however, they have core similarities in providing solutions and better outcomes for the future. The author is ambitious, as multiple social, Indigenous and environmental issues are touched upon and lays the stage for a compelling, educative and inspirational plot. The ending caught me off-guard as I thought it was a stand-alone and extensively went through denial. I was so happy when I realised there is a book two, and I look forward to digging in. The stakes couldn't be graver! 

Thank you, NetGalley & SOURCEBOOKS Bloom Books, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

The Bone House by Caroline Mitchell

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense 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

4.25

The Bone House is a dark, supernatural and twisted psychological thriller. This is my second book by Caroline Mitchell, and I devoured it! This author is on my favourite authors list for two reasons; her ability to infuse psychological thriller with supernatural elements is well-executed, and the plot's pacing is immaculate! Slayton is a mysterious town immersed with darkness and sinking secrets, and when they come to the surface, unrest and chaos ensue. A murder of crows fall from the skies, an ominous foreboding of a cold case coming back to life. Sarah Noble is a great character who strives to uncover the truth while fiercely protecting the ones she loves. Her relationship with Elliot, her best friend's boy, is touching, and her interactions with her best friends reveal her personable style. A few developments caused my eyes to widen, but they complemented the series' progress. While I could narrow down the accused of the unspeakable horrors, the ending was well executed. Personally, the epilogue wasn't required, but it was a welcomed puzzle piece. I can't wait for the next book! 

Please note this book isn't everyone's cup of tea because of some severe trigger warnings (infant death, torture, neglect, suspected possession and murder). Proceed with caution. 

Thank you, NetGalley & Embla Books, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily. 

The Librarian by Valerie Keogh

dark informative mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

The Librarian is a slow-build, tense and twisted read. Valerie Keogh does an excellent job of presenting a well-crafted plot with a mix of endearing, creepy and disturbing characters. Ava Warrington, head librarian at The Tate Modern, lives vicariously through her best friend, Poppy. She lives a recluse life by choice after the harrowing life-changing event ten years ago. With the impending and dreadful anniversary, Ava notices that her seemingly mundane life is drastically changing; her professionalism is questioned, her friend goes incognito, and she cannot shake the sinking feeling of being watched. Did this primarily happen after refusing to drink with a stranger who reeked of danger? Is there more to this that Ava cannot see? The author has done a fantastic job creating a well-rounded, introverted protagonist. Though the landscapes are limited, there is an element of freshness with little repetition. The ending was twisted and shocking, one I could have never imagined. 

For fans of tense suspense, do not skip this one! Thank you, NetGalley & Boldwood Books, for an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily. 

Murder at Midnight by Katharine Schellman

hopeful informative inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

The fourth Lily Adler mystery is out, and I was so excited to time-travel back to England in the 19th Century! Murder at Midnight is cleverly written, intent on exposing the dynamics of amateur sleuths, tense family dynamics, social gossip and outlaws. With every successive book, Lily Adler grows on me! Her sharp eye, wit and motivation to get to the bottom of a series of murders shine throughout the book. The author has done a fantastic job introducing diverse characters and touching on relevant social issues. On a personal front, Lily has a significant and life-changing decision to make, and this component is well-integrated throughout the book. Get ready to go down the rabbit hole with an evergrowing suspect list, with twists and turns that deliver an engaging and high-stakes read! The ending tugged my heartstrings, and I look forward to reuniting with Lily and her crew. 

Thank you, NetGalley & Crooked Lane Books, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily. 

The Tip Line by Vanessa Cuti

challenging mysterious sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

3.0

The Tip Line is an intriguing, immersive and confusing read. Virginia Carey is 30 years old and driven to find a husband. She lands a job as an operator of the police tip line and casts her eye on Charlie Ford and Dec Brady. While varied dating scenarios and wedding bells chime in her mind, it comes crashing down with the voice of Verona, who reports our bodies on a remote local beach. While I was immersed in how Verona and Virginia's relationship of trust developed, the narrating style caught me off guard. Virginia is in her head often, and her tangents deviate from the main plot. The elements of suspicion and unsettlement linger throughout the pages, and the ending is confusing. The final word uttered as I hit the 100% mark was "huh?!". I would recommend this book if you're looking for something different to read. A 3-star read. 

Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

See It End by Brianna Labuskes

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

5.0

Brianna Labuskes' "See It End" is a thrilling and enticing read. The central plot is around Detective Lauren Marconi's past, and the puzzle pieces of her sudden erratic behaviour and past conduct come together. This is the third book of the Dr Gretchen White series and qualifies as a standalone (this is my first book by the author). However, I strongly suggest that readers go back to books one and two to understand these remarkable and well-fleshed-out characters better. 

Dr Gretchen White is one of the best characters I have read. Most crime/suspense books follow the linear path of revealing one of their characters being a sociopath. But what happens if the tables are turned, and we have individuals who strives to make integral choices based on their coping mechanisms? Her brilliance, wit and sarcasm are unmatched, and her moments of doubt and frustration are well-written. The supporting characters and the list of suspects are carefully and cleverly woven into the plot, and the twists and turns are well-timed and genuinely shocking. 

Fans of psychology, mystery, thriller and the classic whodunit, please do not skip this one. 

Thank you, NetGalley & Thomas and Mercer, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

Revamped by Shirley Goldberg

adventurous funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective relaxing sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

Revamped is a refreshing read interjected with moments of humour, romance and complicated family dynamics. I appreciated the combination of a grumpy/miserable/adaptable vampire with a sassy female protagonist. Shirley Goldberg successfully created an immersive world, and I liked the concept of an energy vampire and the foodies (humans). Dante is a good character, relatable, socially awkward and old-fashioned, a breath of fresh air. The instant connection and chemistry with fiery Sophie were well captured with excellent banter and flirtation. How they take care of each other amidst their families was endearing. However, specific phrases seemed outdated and borderline juvenile for characters in their thirties which hampered my reading experience. Look no further if you're looking for banter, romance, great characters and creative world-building. I received an advance review copy from BookSirens. This honest review is left voluntarily.

Peril by Kat Martin

adventurous dark informative inspiring mysterious reflective tense medium-paced

4.0

Peril comprises three novellas with a common element, a bunch of criminals leaving their chaotic footprint behind as they terrorise small towns. Alexandra Ivy sets the stage with Redemption, with two law enforcement agents finding themselves back to each other, united by bringing justice to a fallen cop. The chemistry, flirtation and the high-stakes made this read extremely enjoyable, and I was left wanting more. Rescue:  Hero Style by Rebecca Zanetti is centred around second chances. Ella and Caden are estranged but are each other's, ultimate person. A cocktail of stubbornness and perseverance ensues amidst secrets and hidden motives. The scenes dragged on at times, but the author delivered a well-deserved and satisfying ending. We conclude with One Last Kiss by Kat Martin. I took time to get into this story, but the characters were well-developed. The gradual connection between Libby and Sam was earnest and sweet. The plot slowly evolved and delivered a tense, high-stakes ending. If you're looking for a cozy beach read, don't hesitate to pick this one! 

Thank you, NetGalley & Kensington Books, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.