nebulous07's reviews
297 reviews

The One That Got Away by Charlotte Rixon

emotional hopeful reflective sad tense medium-paced

5.0

Charlotte Rixon's The One That Got Away is a beautiful narrative between Benjamin and Clara. With every passing page, Charlotte's narrative style grows on you, her well-chosen words driving an intriguing and complex plot. A big win for me is how realistic and flawed both characters are. They come from different sides of their tracks, and each has trauma that they need to reconcile. Having a soft corner for History, I loved the timeline under every chapter, a gentle nudge to the reader to keep track of past and present events. Benjamin is such a lovable yet complex character, for his silence is endearing and deceptive. Clara is a perfectionist, hungry for more from life and can make words painful in a confrontation, indicating that she needs to heal from her past. I appreciate how this book challenges acceptable notions of team initiations and drug and alcohol usage and encourages readers to reflect upon this. The ending was a blanket of hope, and one thing I would have liked it if the final realisation was spread across the book, given that this book is a 20-year timeline between the protagonists. My heart was heavy and yet complete with this read. Five stars all the way, and I recommend this one! 

A thank you to NetGalley and Aria & Aries for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

The Snowstorm by Triona Walsh

dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

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

4.0

The Snowstorm by Triona Walsh is exceptionally well written. Drawn to the premise, I was deeply moved by the historical significance of the remote Irish island that not only holds memories but deep dark secrets. An intense storm is brewing that isolates the inhabitants from the rest of the world and shakes six friends who are caught in its eye. 

The Yaays: The character development flows and complements the plot. I admired and grew deeply fond of Garda (Policewoman) Cara. Her quest for the truth, guilt, helplessness and determination are flawlessly highlighted. I appreciated how she conducted herself and held her cards close to her chest as an "outsider." The past events were well-placed, resulting in little to no confusion. Every character was easily distinguished, and the pacing was well done, making me quickly turn the pages. I loved the integration language and the subsequent translation.

The Nays: While it was easy to pinpoint the culprits, I could never predict the twists and turns that came through. While this is a significant yaay, I felt that there were too many twists and turns, making the ending a tad far-fetched for me. 

If you're looking for a winter read that will keep you on your toes, do not skip this one. 

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

A Cryptic Clue by Victoria Gilbert

adventurous emotional funny informative inspiring mysterious reflective 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

A Cryptic Clue was an enjoyable, thrilling and satisfying read. 

60-year-old Jane Hunter is forced into early retirement and applies for a job as a cataloger to support her meagre pension. Seeking a challenge to keep herself proactive, she finds herself amidst a murder mystery. 33-year-old  Cam Clewe is a hermit who prides himself on his rare books and artifacts collections. When an heir to a pharmaceutical fortune is found dead in the Aircroft Estate, surrounded by secrets and mystery, all eyes turn to Cam. The tip of the iceberg is that the victim was Cam's ex-girlfriend. Can Jane hunt the culprit and their motive before it is too late? 

The Yaays: Victoria Gilbert delivers a well-executed plot and a great mix of characters. Jane Hunter is friendly, sturdy and kind. She compliments Cam Clewe exceptionally well; their banter and conversations are well-written. Cam Clewe is a refreshing character - a welcomed one, especially among the dominating alpha/arrogant millionaire male characters. His awkwardness, straightforwardness and tactlessness conjure a mix of emotions. You certainly feel for this character when his past is unveiled. I appreciate how some questions remain unanswered and open the door to a promising series. I also loved the pacing and finished this book in one sitting. 

The Nays: The execution of the ending. If you're a Sherlock while reading, it is impossible to guess the motive. While my suspect list was growing and I had a few suspicions, the critical information was revealed in the last 25% of the book. It would have been interesting if breadcrumbs were spilled across the book. 

Verdict: If you're a fan of a cosy mystery with well-informed & endearing characters, do not skip this read. I look forward to reading more of the author's work. 

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

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes

5.0

Georgie, All Along by Kate Clayborn enveloped me like a warm blanket. It's my first book by Kate Clayborn, and it certainly won't be my last. The author presents memorable, relatable and flawed characters (Georgie and Levi) who dig deep in their quest for discovery and purpose amidst romance. I was reeled into this modern world (with subtle impactful hints) almost instantly with compelling descriptions of the natural surroundings and wonderful supporting characters. Georgie is such a beautiful character who discovers her strengths, embraces them, and tackles the impressions of the past in the present. Her attraction and protection towards Levi are so earnest and passionate. Levi is one of my favourite male characters! Humbled and haunted by the actions of his past amidst complex family dynamics, his adoration and tenderness to Georgie and Hank made my heart soar! The ending made me swoon and is drizzled with curiosity, hope and love. 

Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for giving me an eARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

The Summer She Disappeared by Carissa Ann Lynch

adventurous dark informative mysterious sad tense fast-paced

4.0

The Summer She Disappeared is a thrilling read that oscillates between the past and present of Willow Roberts. After her divorce, she finds herself back in the lake house she inherited from her parents, which was a nucleus of memories of multiple summer holidays until it became painful with the disappearance of her best friend, Kathi Jo. 

The Yaays: Carissa Ann Lynch has seamlessly navigated multiple traits and characters into this simple plot. Each character is presented well; early on, readers will get an idea of their intentions and behaviours. Willow Roberts has her head on her shoulders, and reading how she navigates her teenage years was immersive. The rollercoaster of emotions, the addictiveness of rebelling, growing up and dealing with changes was well done. The pacing is another yaay, and it is effortless to understand even though we travel through time. 

The Nays: Some additional facts seemed unnecessary for the characters. The culprit wasn't too thinly veiled, and it was easy to suspect who it was. 

Final Verdict: If you're a fan of a quick, straightforward thriller with various characters, do not skip this one. I will keep an eye out for this author's work in the future. 

Thank you, NetGalley & HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, for giving me an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily. 

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Physical abuse

Minor: Adult/minor relationship

What Happened on Floor 34? by Caroline Corcoran

dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced

3.0

What Happened on Floor 34? is an interesting slow-build premise centred around Rose, a day editor. She has a work connection with the night editor, Will Frost. Suddenly, Will Frost disappears, and Rose's boss offers her the position of night editor. However, this comes at a price. Caroline Corcoran's narrative style is engaging, and the downward spiral of our protagonist is thorough and intense. The spiral triggers an obsession to truly decipher what happened to Will Frost, leading Rose to walk a dark and narrow path of disconnection and isolation. There were multiple moments when the book dragged on and felt like a never-ending cycle, impeding my reading experience. This book is filled with twists and turns; some are pure hits, while the others felt like it was a consolation, added purely for shock value. The plot is intriguing; however, the execution slightly falls short—a 3-star read. 

Trigger Warning - Rape.

Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for giving me an e-ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.

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Content Warnings

Moderate: Rape

How to Heal Your Inner Child: Overcome Past Trauma and Childhood Emotional Neglect by Simon Chapple

emotional hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

Simon Chapple's "How to Heal Your Inner Child" is one of my top highlights for 2023 in the non-fiction category. Personally, this book spoke to me on so many levels, and the activities ingrained are profoundly insightful, one that requires a high level of awareness and honesty. I loved the writing style; it felt relaxed and friendly, and technical terms were clarified and deciphered exceptionally well. Multiple moments and connections throughout my reading experience helped establish the influence of the past on my current behaviours, which I am incredibly grateful for. I am still working through the activities, and my resolve to have a better outcome for myself is strengthened daily. I read 5% daily, and I found this approach helpful. The process of empathy and kindness shines throughout the book, which is necessary when walking down memory lane. I will return to this book as I face triumphs and challenges in my healing journey. 

Do not skip this if you want to make peace with your past and your parents and change your current habits and behaviours. 

Thank you, NetGalley & Sheldon Press, for providing an ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily. 

One Down by Diana Wilkinson

dark informative mysterious sad tense medium-paced

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

3.0

One Down by Diana Wilkinson is an intriguing and exciting read. It tackles murder through the lens of cryptic crossword puzzle clues. Nathan and Amanda's relationship has ended; Amanda thought he was out of her life for good, but Nathan appears to have other plans. He uses the crossword to send clues about her indiscretions, struggles and relationship milestones. Each chapter unveils how their relationship ran through multiple timelines, which sometimes got confusing. The crossword clues, the champion plot point, got repetitive, with identical hints used numerous times. I have to raise a trigger warning flag of alcoholism, addiction and rape. Furthermore, it is relatively easy to decipher who the culprit and potential suspects are. Still, Diana does an excellent job of connecting the dots and delivering a satisfactory ending. 

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

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, and Rape

Before the Storm: One Hot Night by Rachel Grant

adventurous informative 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? It's complicated

5.0

A well-crafted and immersive prequel to Into the Storm with an ultimate cliffhanger of an ending. Rachel Grant is becoming one of my top authors for romantic suspense, for she slays with relatable & likeable characters, concise and yet detailed premises with excellent pacing. The chemistry between Xavier & Audrey is instant & electric. One night delivers fireworks, but their story doesn't end. Instead, it begins with being on opposite sides at a professional level. Don't forget to grab Into the Storm to explore how Xavier & Audrey find themselves against the odds of survival and resisting each other. This series has got my attention, and I can't wait to read them!

The Perfect Ones by Nicole Hackett

dark 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? Yes

3.0

The Perfect Ones is about three influencers, Holly, Celeste & Alabama, whose paths cross on a promotional trip to Iceland. However, they already know about one another in the world of Instagram and influencing. But are those mere projections or instant judgements? How much do jealousy, envy, and desperation guide their actions? All of this comes into question when Alabama is missing. 

The Yaays: The pacing. Nicole Hackett has done well in deconstructing the three pivotal characters across a linear timeframe centred around months and weeks before and after the Iceland trip. The detailed narratives of the Icelandic landscapes deported me to the beautiful country. I appreciated the connections made between scenery and deciphering the inner thoughts/motives of the characters, which was a cherry on top, especially in the realm of influencing and social media. Also, The tense interactions between all three characters were well written. 

The Nays: The ending. Certain breakthroughs appeared promising, but the final climax was underwhelming. For me, it somehow fell flat. I felt I was told that I landed at the end of the book rather than being guided there. 

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