Scan barcode
theoverbookedbibliophile's reviews
1376 reviews
More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa
emotional
hopeful
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
4.0
"Here in Tokyo’s neighborhood of secondhand bookstores is our little bookshop. It’s full of little stories. And it holds within its walls the thoughts and hopes and feelings of a great many people.”
It was wonderful to revisit Tokyo’s Jimbocho neighborhood and the Morisaki Bookshop once again, the story picks up with Takako, her uncle Satoru and Satoru’s wife Momoko who has returned to her husband after years apart. Takako is now gainfully employed in a design studio, having moved on from the events described in the previous book and is now in a new relationship. Satoru and Momoko are running the bookshop, but Takako often spends her free time at the ship and fondly remembers the time she spent living in the apartment above. The narrative follows the joys, sorrows and struggles of these characters, their friends and their customers as they go about leading their daily lives.
But when tragedy strikes, it is up to Takako to remind her uncle how important the bookstore is to everyone around them and how their love for books and reading can help them through the most difficult of times.
“When I’m sad, I read. I can go on reading for hours. Reading quiets the turmoil I feel inside and brings me peace. Because when I'm immersed in the world of a book, no one can get hurt,”
More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa (translated by Eric Ozawa) is a short and simple yet emotionally moving story that revolves around themes of family, love, grief, healing and personal growth, and the of course, the magical power of books and bookstores. Whereas the previous novel focused on Takako’s journey as she dealt with heartbreak and disappointment, the second book in the series revolves around the interpersonal dynamics between people in Takako’s life and the role the Morisaki Bookstore plays in their lives. The pacing is on the slower side and despite the slightly stilted writing, I thought that the story flowed well. I loved the setting and thought that the characters were well thought out. I found the quirky characters amusing and enjoyed the literary references. There were a few subplots that were left unexplored and I certainly hope we get the opportunity to meet these characters again. I wish we had learned more about the neighborhood and the second-hand book business, but this does not detract from my overall experience.
“People forget all kinds of things. They live by forgetting. Yet our thoughts endure, the way waves leave traces in the sand.”
Though this is the second in a series, this book can be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to Harper Perennial and Paperbacks for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
It was wonderful to revisit Tokyo’s Jimbocho neighborhood and the Morisaki Bookshop once again, the story picks up with Takako, her uncle Satoru and Satoru’s wife Momoko who has returned to her husband after years apart. Takako is now gainfully employed in a design studio, having moved on from the events described in the previous book and is now in a new relationship. Satoru and Momoko are running the bookshop, but Takako often spends her free time at the ship and fondly remembers the time she spent living in the apartment above. The narrative follows the joys, sorrows and struggles of these characters, their friends and their customers as they go about leading their daily lives.
But when tragedy strikes, it is up to Takako to remind her uncle how important the bookstore is to everyone around them and how their love for books and reading can help them through the most difficult of times.
“When I’m sad, I read. I can go on reading for hours. Reading quiets the turmoil I feel inside and brings me peace. Because when I'm immersed in the world of a book, no one can get hurt,”
More Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa (translated by Eric Ozawa) is a short and simple yet emotionally moving story that revolves around themes of family, love, grief, healing and personal growth, and the of course, the magical power of books and bookstores. Whereas the previous novel focused on Takako’s journey as she dealt with heartbreak and disappointment, the second book in the series revolves around the interpersonal dynamics between people in Takako’s life and the role the Morisaki Bookstore plays in their lives. The pacing is on the slower side and despite the slightly stilted writing, I thought that the story flowed well. I loved the setting and thought that the characters were well thought out. I found the quirky characters amusing and enjoyed the literary references. There were a few subplots that were left unexplored and I certainly hope we get the opportunity to meet these characters again. I wish we had learned more about the neighborhood and the second-hand book business, but this does not detract from my overall experience.
“People forget all kinds of things. They live by forgetting. Yet our thoughts endure, the way waves leave traces in the sand.”
Though this is the second in a series, this book can be read as a standalone.
Many thanks to Harper Perennial and Paperbacks for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Ivan, Boris and Me by Suze Leonie
emotional
funny
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
3.0
I loved the premise of Ivan, Boris and Me by Suze Leonie. The story revolves around twenty-five-year-old artist/children's book illustrator Elodie Ginsburg and her clown Boris, who has been her closest companion ever since she was four years old. Elodie lives with Boris, who creates much chaos in her life, in the house she inherited from her late grandmother. She is not particularly close to her family, who don't approve of her career choices. When she strikes up a friendship with her new neighbor Ivan Lennard, a former professional cyclist who is also dealing with his own life problems, she notices Boris behaving even more erratically than usual. As the narrative progresses we follow Elodie as she navigates her budding friendship with her new neighbor, her strained relationship with her family especially her mother who is critical of everything Elodie does and the shift in her her dynamic with Boris.
The novel touches upon themes of loneliness, emotional abuse, social anxiety, individual coping mechanisms, kindness, compassion and personal growth. The author poignantly portrays the deep impact of emotional abuse on a person’s sense of self-worth. The characters are well thought out and the narrative flows well. I loved the descriptions of Elodie’s artwork. Boris’s antics and the interactions between Boris and Elodie were hilarious. Elodie is an endearing protagonist - kind and thoughtful despite her inner struggles - and I was invested in her journey and was glad to see her evolve into a more confident individual.
This is a well-written, imaginative and emotionally impactful story with endearing main characters and much to reflect upon. The ending felt a tad rushed and I would have liked it if the author had delved deeper into some of the important issues that were addressed in the novel. My heart ached for Elodie and I could sympathize with her plight, but there were some issues that I found hard to ignore, such as how clueless everyone around her was to her situation, which seemed unrealistic. I did like how Ivan and Elodie’s dynamic evolved through the course of this novel, but I was left with a lot of unanswered questions and felt that the ending was abrupt, though I did appreciate that the author ended the story on a positive note.
I do not want to venture into spoiler territory, but I think you would enjoy this more if you could take the story lightly, which was not possible for me on account of the sensitive themes.
I loved the cover art!
Many thanks to Fidessa Literary for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The novel touches upon themes of loneliness, emotional abuse, social anxiety, individual coping mechanisms, kindness, compassion and personal growth. The author poignantly portrays the deep impact of emotional abuse on a person’s sense of self-worth. The characters are well thought out and the narrative flows well. I loved the descriptions of Elodie’s artwork. Boris’s antics and the interactions between Boris and Elodie were hilarious. Elodie is an endearing protagonist - kind and thoughtful despite her inner struggles - and I was invested in her journey and was glad to see her evolve into a more confident individual.
This is a well-written, imaginative and emotionally impactful story with endearing main characters and much to reflect upon. The ending felt a tad rushed and I would have liked it if the author had delved deeper into some of the important issues that were addressed in the novel. My heart ached for Elodie and I could sympathize with her plight, but there were some issues that I found hard to ignore, such as how clueless everyone around her was to her situation, which seemed unrealistic. I did like how Ivan and Elodie’s dynamic evolved through the course of this novel, but I was left with a lot of unanswered questions and felt that the ending was abrupt, though I did appreciate that the author ended the story on a positive note.
I do not want to venture into spoiler territory, but I think you would enjoy this more if you could take the story lightly, which was not possible for me on account of the sensitive themes.
I loved the cover art!
Many thanks to Fidessa Literary for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Suspect by Rob Rinder
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.0
The second book in Rob Rinder’s Adam Green Mystery series begins with the murder of a popular television presenter captured on live television. Jessica Holby, co-host of “Wake Up Britain!”, dies from anaphylactic shock after tasting a dish prepared by celebrity chef Sebastian Brooks, a regular guest on the show. Brooks is the prime suspect after it is discovered that the dish was laced with an ingredient to which it was public knowledge that Jessica was allergic.
Though he is expected to watch and learn as they prepare for the upcoming trial, it soon becomes clear to Adam Green, now a Junior Barrister, that there might be more to the case than meets the eye and as he pursues his deep dive into Jessica’s life and her associates, it is gradually revealed that Jessica had a fair share of people in her life who possibly held a grudge. Adam is also asked by one of his seniors to help on another trial involving a teenager found in possession of illegal weapons and whose family is suspected of having criminal connections.
As with the The Trial, the plot is not particularly intense or complex, despite the parallel storyline woven into the primary narrative, but it is definitely well-written and entertaining. The narrative is consistently paced and well-structured. The mystery is well-crafted and I enjoyed following Adam’s character arc as he navigates a stressful work environment and the expectations of his seniors, tries to strike a balance between his personal life and professional friendships, struggles to venture out of his comfort zone and begins to realize that mistakes can be made in the pursuit of justice despite the best intentions. I also liked how the author describes Adam’s work environment. The characters and the setting are portrayed realistically and I liked how the author depicts the competitiveness and the work pressure and how the same affects Adam and other newcomers. I enjoyed the courtroom scenes and the investigative segments. I also appreciated the element of humor added to the narrative, in the form of his phone conversations with his mother, in chapters interspersed throughout the narrative.
The ending is indicative of a third book with what (I hope) might be a relatively more intense plotline. Overall, I enjoyed The Suspect by Rob Rinder and I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Though this is the second book in the series, it does work well as a standalone. I would, however, recommend reading the first book as it is an enjoyable read and does give you a bit more insight into Adam as a character.
Though he is expected to watch and learn as they prepare for the upcoming trial, it soon becomes clear to Adam Green, now a Junior Barrister, that there might be more to the case than meets the eye and as he pursues his deep dive into Jessica’s life and her associates, it is gradually revealed that Jessica had a fair share of people in her life who possibly held a grudge. Adam is also asked by one of his seniors to help on another trial involving a teenager found in possession of illegal weapons and whose family is suspected of having criminal connections.
As with the The Trial, the plot is not particularly intense or complex, despite the parallel storyline woven into the primary narrative, but it is definitely well-written and entertaining. The narrative is consistently paced and well-structured. The mystery is well-crafted and I enjoyed following Adam’s character arc as he navigates a stressful work environment and the expectations of his seniors, tries to strike a balance between his personal life and professional friendships, struggles to venture out of his comfort zone and begins to realize that mistakes can be made in the pursuit of justice despite the best intentions. I also liked how the author describes Adam’s work environment. The characters and the setting are portrayed realistically and I liked how the author depicts the competitiveness and the work pressure and how the same affects Adam and other newcomers. I enjoyed the courtroom scenes and the investigative segments. I also appreciated the element of humor added to the narrative, in the form of his phone conversations with his mother, in chapters interspersed throughout the narrative.
The ending is indicative of a third book with what (I hope) might be a relatively more intense plotline. Overall, I enjoyed The Suspect by Rob Rinder and I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Though this is the second book in the series, it does work well as a standalone. I would, however, recommend reading the first book as it is an enjoyable read and does give you a bit more insight into Adam as a character.
Storm Child by Michael Robotham
The fourth installment in Michael Robotham’s Cyrus Haven is a dark, suspenseful, heartbreaking, and incredibly moving read and a worthy addition to the series.
Years ago, Evie Cormac, then a child of eleven/twelve, was rescued from a room in a home where she had been hiding, where she witnessed a man brutally tortured to death. No one knew who she was or how she came to be in that room. In the years since, Cyrus Haven, a forensic psychologist and profiler who works with law enforcement, has helped Evie in her efforts to deal with her trauma and has been a supportive presence. Her true identity and what she has endured are no longer a mystery, but there are memories of her earlier life and how she fell into the hands of her abusers that have yet to be recovered.
Evie is now twenty-two years and though she has been able to move forward, she is still haunted by the traumatic events in her past. Evie’s memories of certain events are vague, but she is triggered when she witnesses the horrific scene of the bodies of migrants washing ashore at Lincolnshire beach during a seaside trip with Cyrus. The sole survivor, a traumatized teenager, reveals that the boat carrying him and other migrants was deliberately rammed by a trawler, causing it to sink.
Cyrus who is asked to assist in the investigation into the incident, also tries to help Evie unlock her repressed memories as they search for the people responsible for the tragedy – a search that takes Evie and Cyrus to Scotland among people who know more than they are disclosing and would not hesitate to hurt them to protect their secrets. What awaits them in Scotland? Who is The Ferryman? Is he just a myth, or does this entity truly force migrants to pay for their crossing? Will Evie finally be able to remember what happened to her and her family, or will this lead to another dead end?
Intense and gripping, Storm Child by Michael Robotham is an exceptionally well-written novel. The narrative, presented from the first-person POVs of Cyrus and Evie, touches upon themes of trauma and healing, criminal conspiracy and human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual abuse of minors, murder and the refugee crisis. Evie’s memories are shared in flashbacks as the narrative progresses and the author deftly weaves past and present timelines, dual POVSs and several subplots into a well-paced, tension-filled and deeply immersive narrative with a satisfying ending. The author writes with depth and strong attention to detail. I’m glad the author ends the story on a positive note and I enjoyed following the narrative as the mysteries were unraveled with plenty of surprises that kept me hooked until the very end.
Given the subject matter, this is not an easy read. The dark themes are disturbing and might be triggering for some readers and descriptions of the migrant bodies washing ashore will remind you of the heartbreaking pictures we have seen in the headlines.
I loved how Evie has evolved over this series and I continue to appreciate the dynamic between Cyrus and Evie and how their connection has helped both of them explore their own tragic pasts. Both character arcs are well thought out and I’m curious to see what the future holds for both characters. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Scribner for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Though this book could be read as a standalone , I would recommend reading the books in series order for a better understanding of the characters.
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.5
The fourth installment in Michael Robotham’s Cyrus Haven is a dark, suspenseful, heartbreaking, and incredibly moving read and a worthy addition to the series.
Years ago, Evie Cormac, then a child of eleven/twelve, was rescued from a room in a home where she had been hiding, where she witnessed a man brutally tortured to death. No one knew who she was or how she came to be in that room. In the years since, Cyrus Haven, a forensic psychologist and profiler who works with law enforcement, has helped Evie in her efforts to deal with her trauma and has been a supportive presence. Her true identity and what she has endured are no longer a mystery, but there are memories of her earlier life and how she fell into the hands of her abusers that have yet to be recovered.
Evie is now twenty-two years and though she has been able to move forward, she is still haunted by the traumatic events in her past. Evie’s memories of certain events are vague, but she is triggered when she witnesses the horrific scene of the bodies of migrants washing ashore at Lincolnshire beach during a seaside trip with Cyrus. The sole survivor, a traumatized teenager, reveals that the boat carrying him and other migrants was deliberately rammed by a trawler, causing it to sink.
Cyrus who is asked to assist in the investigation into the incident, also tries to help Evie unlock her repressed memories as they search for the people responsible for the tragedy – a search that takes Evie and Cyrus to Scotland among people who know more than they are disclosing and would not hesitate to hurt them to protect their secrets. What awaits them in Scotland? Who is The Ferryman? Is he just a myth, or does this entity truly force migrants to pay for their crossing? Will Evie finally be able to remember what happened to her and her family, or will this lead to another dead end?
Intense and gripping, Storm Child by Michael Robotham is an exceptionally well-written novel. The narrative, presented from the first-person POVs of Cyrus and Evie, touches upon themes of trauma and healing, criminal conspiracy and human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual abuse of minors, murder and the refugee crisis. Evie’s memories are shared in flashbacks as the narrative progresses and the author deftly weaves past and present timelines, dual POVSs and several subplots into a well-paced, tension-filled and deeply immersive narrative with a satisfying ending. The author writes with depth and strong attention to detail. I’m glad the author ends the story on a positive note and I enjoyed following the narrative as the mysteries were unraveled with plenty of surprises that kept me hooked until the very end.
Given the subject matter, this is not an easy read. The dark themes are disturbing and might be triggering for some readers and descriptions of the migrant bodies washing ashore will remind you of the heartbreaking pictures we have seen in the headlines.
I loved how Evie has evolved over this series and I continue to appreciate the dynamic between Cyrus and Evie and how their connection has helped both of them explore their own tragic pasts. Both character arcs are well thought out and I’m curious to see what the future holds for both characters. I eagerly await the next book in the series.
Many thanks to Scribner for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Though this book could be read as a standalone , I would recommend reading the books in series order for a better understanding of the characters.
Lying Beside You by Michael Robotham
When he was nineteen, Elias Haven, Cyrus’s older brother, murdered their twin sisters and parents, acting on the instigation of the voices in his head. Twenty years after he was incarcerated at Rampton Secure Hospital – a psychiatric facility, where he was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, Elias is about to be released and Cyrus has mixed feelings about Elias’s impending return and the possible disruption to his life and is concerned about how Evie, who now twenty-one years old, is struggling to bring a sense of normalcy into her life and now lives in Cyrus’s home, would react to Elias being there. Evie is currently back in school, studying for her A Levels, and also working in a local bar but after the trauma she has endured and her ability to tell when a person is lying doesn’t make interacting with others any easier.
Cyrus, a forensic psychologist and profiler who works with local enforcement, is also involved in the investigation of the disappearance of Maya Kirk, a woman in her thirties who is suspected of having been kidnapped from her home after her father was attacked and left for dead. When another woman, who was a customer at the bar where Evie works, disappears and Evie is the last one to have seen her, Evie inevitably gets involved in the case. Are the disappearances connected? Evie is also busy trying to prove the innocence of Mitchell Coates, a convicted rapist, recently released on parole and working for Cyrus, who claims and who Evie believes to be innocent.
Please note that this book would not work as a standalone and I would recommend reading the books in series order.
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.5
I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books in the author’s Cyrus Haven series and I’m glad to say Lying Beside You by Michael Robotham does not disappoint!
When he was nineteen, Elias Haven, Cyrus’s older brother, murdered their twin sisters and parents, acting on the instigation of the voices in his head. Twenty years after he was incarcerated at Rampton Secure Hospital – a psychiatric facility, where he was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, Elias is about to be released and Cyrus has mixed feelings about Elias’s impending return and the possible disruption to his life and is concerned about how Evie, who now twenty-one years old, is struggling to bring a sense of normalcy into her life and now lives in Cyrus’s home, would react to Elias being there. Evie is currently back in school, studying for her A Levels, and also working in a local bar but after the trauma she has endured and her ability to tell when a person is lying doesn’t make interacting with others any easier.
Cyrus, a forensic psychologist and profiler who works with local enforcement, is also involved in the investigation of the disappearance of Maya Kirk, a woman in her thirties who is suspected of having been kidnapped from her home after her father was attacked and left for dead. When another woman, who was a customer at the bar where Evie works, disappears and Evie is the last one to have seen her, Evie inevitably gets involved in the case. Are the disappearances connected? Evie is also busy trying to prove the innocence of Mitchell Coates, a convicted rapist, recently released on parole and working for Cyrus, who claims and who Evie believes to be innocent.
Needless to say, both Evie and Cyrus have a lot on their plates and plenty of complications arise as they try to find out what happened to the missing women, while also working to prove Mitch’s innocence and navigating their personal problems.
Twisty and utterly absorbing, with plenty of surprises along the way, this was a gripping thriller that kept me guessing until the very end and I loved it when all my theories were proved wrong! The narrative, presented from Cyrus and Evie’s first-person POVs, provides a well-rounded picture of the events as and when they happen. The author has done a remarkable job of depicting the shifting dynamic between Cyrus and Evie. Evie does behave immaturely for her age, at times, but her insecurities and attitude towards Cyrus are well-explained. The author injects quite a bit of dry humor in Evie’s POV to keep you entertained. The narrative features several subplots that are seamlessly woven into a cohesive narrative. At no point does the plot become convoluted or difficult to follow. I’ve rarely seen such strong character development in a thriller series and this is where the author excels. Not only are Robothem’s plots complex and layered, but in Cyrus and Evie he has created characters that the reader is invested in, striking an almost perfect balance between the character-driven and plot-driven aspects of the story.
Superb writing, complex character dynamics, and a well-crafted suspenseful plot make for a riveting read! This series just keeps getting better!
Please note that this book would not work as a standalone and I would recommend reading the books in series order.
When She Was Good by Michael Robotham
Fast-paced and suspenseful with superb character development and a gripping narrative, When She Was Good by Michael Robotham is a worthy sequel to the first book in the author’s Cyrus Haven series.
As the novel begins, Evie is once again at Langford Hall, waiting to turn eighteen ( officially as per court records) and hopefully be released as an adult. The details of Evie’s true identity and the events that led to her being found seven years ago in a hidden room in a house where a man had been brutally murdered remain a mystery. She now considers forensic psychologist Cyrus Haven a friend but has not shared what she remembers of her past with him. Cyrus, haunted by his own tragic past, is concerned for Evie and seeks out Sacha Hopewell, the constable who initially found Evie, hoping that she might be able to shed light on the events that led to her discovery – facts that the police reports might have missed. Cyrus is also called to help investigate the death of a retired police officer, who at the time of his death was looking into an old case – a case that is revealed to possibly be connected to Evie – that might have gotten him killed. When Evie’s safety is threatened, she is compelled to share her story with Cyrus, who is determined to protect her from those who would resort to any means to keep Evie from exposing them.
This is a layered novel, intense and unflinching, and not for the faint of heart. The different threads of the narrative, past and present events and both Evie and Cyrus’s storylines are tightly woven into a gripping narrative that kept me glued to the pages. The narrative, presented from the first-person POVs of Cyrus and Evie in alternate chapters, moves fast without a boring moment. As Evie’s history is gradually revealed, we are taken down a dark and disturbing path that reeks of human depravity. Plenty of twists and surprises kept me glued to the pages as the author shed light on all the questions left unanswered in the first book of the series. The connection between Evie and Cyrus is well depicted – complex emotions at play and wary of each other yet also able to relate to one another, which enables Evie to slowly learn to trust Cyrus. I also thought that the supporting characters were well thought out, each with a distinct role to play. I was satisfied with the ending and was eager to begin Book #3.
Overall, I thought this was a brilliantly crafted thriller that I would not hesitate to recommend. However, please note that the story does feature content (mostly implied, not explicit) that might prove disturbing for some readers.
(⚠️human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual abuse of children)
I would strongly recommend reading the books in series order.
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.5
Fast-paced and suspenseful with superb character development and a gripping narrative, When She Was Good by Michael Robotham is a worthy sequel to the first book in the author’s Cyrus Haven series.
As the novel begins, Evie is once again at Langford Hall, waiting to turn eighteen ( officially as per court records) and hopefully be released as an adult. The details of Evie’s true identity and the events that led to her being found seven years ago in a hidden room in a house where a man had been brutally murdered remain a mystery. She now considers forensic psychologist Cyrus Haven a friend but has not shared what she remembers of her past with him. Cyrus, haunted by his own tragic past, is concerned for Evie and seeks out Sacha Hopewell, the constable who initially found Evie, hoping that she might be able to shed light on the events that led to her discovery – facts that the police reports might have missed. Cyrus is also called to help investigate the death of a retired police officer, who at the time of his death was looking into an old case – a case that is revealed to possibly be connected to Evie – that might have gotten him killed. When Evie’s safety is threatened, she is compelled to share her story with Cyrus, who is determined to protect her from those who would resort to any means to keep Evie from exposing them.
This is a layered novel, intense and unflinching, and not for the faint of heart. The different threads of the narrative, past and present events and both Evie and Cyrus’s storylines are tightly woven into a gripping narrative that kept me glued to the pages. The narrative, presented from the first-person POVs of Cyrus and Evie in alternate chapters, moves fast without a boring moment. As Evie’s history is gradually revealed, we are taken down a dark and disturbing path that reeks of human depravity. Plenty of twists and surprises kept me glued to the pages as the author shed light on all the questions left unanswered in the first book of the series. The connection between Evie and Cyrus is well depicted – complex emotions at play and wary of each other yet also able to relate to one another, which enables Evie to slowly learn to trust Cyrus. I also thought that the supporting characters were well thought out, each with a distinct role to play. I was satisfied with the ending and was eager to begin Book #3.
Overall, I thought this was a brilliantly crafted thriller that I would not hesitate to recommend. However, please note that the story does feature content (mostly implied, not explicit) that might prove disturbing for some readers.
(⚠️human trafficking, kidnapping and sexual abuse of children)
I would strongly recommend reading the books in series order.
Good Girl, Bad Girl by Michael Robotham
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.0
The first book in Michael Robotham’s Cyrus Haven series introduces us to “Evie Cormac” (not her real name), assumed to be around seventeen years old, who was found six years ago hiding in a secret room in an old house in the aftermath of a brutal murder. Dubbed “Angel Face”, nobody knows who she is, no one came forward to claim her and DNA searches haven't yielded any results. Evie is currently a resident in a high-security children's home in Nottingham, where she meets Dr. Cyrus Haven, a forensic psychologist with a tragic past, who works as a profiler for law enforcement. Cyrus is visiting Langford Hall to study Evie’s case and help determine whether her plea to be released as an adult should be granted. Evie possesses a special gift – she can tell when anyone is lying to her face – a facet that fascinates Cyrus, his doctoral research having been based on “truth wizards”. Cyrus is sympathetic to Evie’s plight and is motivated to help her, but Evie is naturally distrustful of others and won’t make it easy for Cyrus. Cyrus is also helping the police find the person responsible for the murder of fifteen-year-old figure-skating champion, Jodie Sheehan. As the narrative progresses, we follow Cyrus and Evie as their lives intersect and the investigation into Jodie’s murder forces each of them to confront their own troubled pasts.
Good Girl, Bad Girl by Michael Robotham is a dark and intense thriller. Fast-paced, with an intricately woven plot and complex characters, I was glued to the pages until the very end. Both Evie and Cyrus are fascinating characters and I could not wait to find out more about them. The murder mystery is cleverly crafted with enough twists and red herrings to keep you engrossed as the plot progresses. The narrative, shared from Cyrus and Evie’s first-person POVs in alternating chapters, allows us to explore the characters – their motives and innermost thoughts and their backstories. I was invested in the evolving dynamic between Cyrus and Evie. Though what we can gather about Evie’s past and what she has endured is heartbreaking, at times she isn’t particularly likable, but this facet makes her an interesting character.
Though I was satisfied with the unraveling of the murder mystery, there were quite a few unanswered questions in Evie’s storyline, which left me a tad disappointed with the ending. Luckily, I was reading the first four books of the series back to back, so I didn't have to wait too long for the answers.
I know I’m late to the party, but I am thrilled to have discovered this series!
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
“None would yet know of the evolving tragedy that would be their lives.”
1975, Monta Clare, Missouri: An act of bravery becomes a defining point in the lives of thirteen-year-old Joseph “Patch” Macauley and those close to him. As the narrative progresses, we follow Patch, his best friend Saint and Misty, the girl he saved, and the important people in their lives and their community for over two decades. While the dynamics within the once close-knit community will never be the same again, the trauma they experience as children follows Patch, Saint and Misty through the years, manifesting in the choices they make and leaving them to grapple with the consequences that follow.
All the Colors of the Dark is my third Chris Whitaker novel after We Begin at the End, which remains my favorite to date, and Tall Oaks. In his latest offering, the author has woven elements of literary fiction, coming-of-age, a love story and a crime procedural element with a solid mystery at its core into an immersive character-driven narrative.
“Memories lie in people, not places and things.”
This is a lengthy novel featuring a large cast of characters and several subplots. The pacing is a tad uneven, but the tonal shifts justify the need to alter the pace as and when required. The author’s strength lies in the way he presents his characters - complex and flawed yet vulnerable, and Patch and Saint are no exception. We follow the characters as their trajectories diverge and then converge again in a continuous cycle of events each more surprising than the next – even when pitted against one another on opposing sides, the deep connection they forged as children is never eroded. The traumatic aftermath of the events described in the 1970s timeline casts a long shadow on the lives of our characters, setting the overarching bleak and melancholic tone for the novel. We might not always agree with the choices our characters make, but we remain invested in their respective journeys - their sorrows become our sorrows, and we rejoice at their smallest of triumphs; their rage, their pain and disillusionment will break our hearts but as they endure the challenges life throws their way, our hearts will be filled with hope. Each of the secondary characters is well defined, with a distinct role to play, which is why, at no point do we find it difficult to follow their character arcs/ respective subplots as the narrative progresses.
Though this is a predominantly character-driven novel, the plot-driven mystery/ procedural aspects do not disappoint. With plenty of twists and revelations with an ending that you do not see coming, the author succeeds in maintaining an atmospheric and suspenseful vibe throughout the narrative.
The story is presented in short chapters, from multiple perspectives spanning over two decades (1975-2001). The author’s masterful storytelling, evocative prose and the emotional depth and insight with which he touches upon themes of love and friendship, sacrifice, resilience, trauma and healing, guilt and redemption render this an incredibly moving story that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.
“To love and be loved was more than could ever be expected, more than enough for a thousand ordinary lifetimes.”
Many thanks to Crown Publishing for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on June 25, 2024.
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
4.5
“None would yet know of the evolving tragedy that would be their lives.”
1975, Monta Clare, Missouri: An act of bravery becomes a defining point in the lives of thirteen-year-old Joseph “Patch” Macauley and those close to him. As the narrative progresses, we follow Patch, his best friend Saint and Misty, the girl he saved, and the important people in their lives and their community for over two decades. While the dynamics within the once close-knit community will never be the same again, the trauma they experience as children follows Patch, Saint and Misty through the years, manifesting in the choices they make and leaving them to grapple with the consequences that follow.
All the Colors of the Dark is my third Chris Whitaker novel after We Begin at the End, which remains my favorite to date, and Tall Oaks. In his latest offering, the author has woven elements of literary fiction, coming-of-age, a love story and a crime procedural element with a solid mystery at its core into an immersive character-driven narrative.
“Memories lie in people, not places and things.”
This is a lengthy novel featuring a large cast of characters and several subplots. The pacing is a tad uneven, but the tonal shifts justify the need to alter the pace as and when required. The author’s strength lies in the way he presents his characters - complex and flawed yet vulnerable, and Patch and Saint are no exception. We follow the characters as their trajectories diverge and then converge again in a continuous cycle of events each more surprising than the next – even when pitted against one another on opposing sides, the deep connection they forged as children is never eroded. The traumatic aftermath of the events described in the 1970s timeline casts a long shadow on the lives of our characters, setting the overarching bleak and melancholic tone for the novel. We might not always agree with the choices our characters make, but we remain invested in their respective journeys - their sorrows become our sorrows, and we rejoice at their smallest of triumphs; their rage, their pain and disillusionment will break our hearts but as they endure the challenges life throws their way, our hearts will be filled with hope. Each of the secondary characters is well defined, with a distinct role to play, which is why, at no point do we find it difficult to follow their character arcs/ respective subplots as the narrative progresses.
Though this is a predominantly character-driven novel, the plot-driven mystery/ procedural aspects do not disappoint. With plenty of twists and revelations with an ending that you do not see coming, the author succeeds in maintaining an atmospheric and suspenseful vibe throughout the narrative.
The story is presented in short chapters, from multiple perspectives spanning over two decades (1975-2001). The author’s masterful storytelling, evocative prose and the emotional depth and insight with which he touches upon themes of love and friendship, sacrifice, resilience, trauma and healing, guilt and redemption render this an incredibly moving story that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.
“To love and be loved was more than could ever be expected, more than enough for a thousand ordinary lifetimes.”
Many thanks to Crown Publishing for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. This novel was published on June 25, 2024.
Like It Never Was by Faith F. Gardner
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
3.5
Jolene Vero has spent the last ten years consumed by guilt over her role in an accident that left her school friend Elizabeth Smith grievously injured. After spending years moving from place to place, career to career, unable to settle down, she moves to Berkley prepared for a fresh start. What she wasn’t prepared for, however, was meeting Elizabeth again. Elizabeth, still bearing the physical scars of her accident, tells her that she has no recollection of how the accident happened and proceeds to befriend Jolene. Jolene is initially uneasy but wants to believe Elizabeth. Is she being paranoid? Should she listen to the voices in her head? Is it her own guilt that’s making her suspect Elizabeth’s hand in the strange things happening to her, or does Elizabeth know more than she is letting on?
There is a lot about Like It Never Was by Faith Gardner that is praiseworthy. The narrative, presented from Jolene’s first-person POV in past and present timelines (“Now” and “Then”) flows well. The fast-paced suspenseful plot, the writing and the twists ( I could predict one of the reveals, but that did not detract from the overall experience) kept me invested until the very end. I don’t mind a bit of OTT/suspension of disbelief and even enjoy it in thrillers. However, what didn’t work for me were the character dynamics. I appreciate that the past timeline begins when the characters were teenagers (which justifies the YA vibes), but when twenty-nine-year-olds resort to behaving like immature teenagers, I find it a tad annoying. The pill-popping, intoxicated unreliable narrator is an overused trope that doesn’t always work for me, though I did appreciate the intensity and dry humor the author injects into the narrative.
However, despite the quibbles, I did find this to be an engaging read. Faith Gardner knows how to craft a twisty thriller and this novel is no exception. Don't overthink it and enjoy the ride!
I’ve been a fan of the author's work ever since the first book in the Jolvix series and always look forward to reading more from her!
Many thanks to the author and the publisher for the digital review copy via BookSirens. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
There is a lot about Like It Never Was by Faith Gardner that is praiseworthy. The narrative, presented from Jolene’s first-person POV in past and present timelines (“Now” and “Then”) flows well. The fast-paced suspenseful plot, the writing and the twists ( I could predict one of the reveals, but that did not detract from the overall experience) kept me invested until the very end. I don’t mind a bit of OTT/suspension of disbelief and even enjoy it in thrillers. However, what didn’t work for me were the character dynamics. I appreciate that the past timeline begins when the characters were teenagers (which justifies the YA vibes), but when twenty-nine-year-olds resort to behaving like immature teenagers, I find it a tad annoying. The pill-popping, intoxicated unreliable narrator is an overused trope that doesn’t always work for me, though I did appreciate the intensity and dry humor the author injects into the narrative.
However, despite the quibbles, I did find this to be an engaging read. Faith Gardner knows how to craft a twisty thriller and this novel is no exception. Don't overthink it and enjoy the ride!
I’ve been a fan of the author's work ever since the first book in the Jolvix series and always look forward to reading more from her!
Many thanks to the author and the publisher for the digital review copy via BookSirens. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Coast Road by Alan Murrin
Set in the mid-1990s, in the small Irish town of Ardglas, County Donegal, The Coast Road by Alan Murrin tells the story of three women navigating troubled marriages in an era before divorce was legalized.
Colette Crowley, a published poet, has returned from Dublin after a failed love affair. Married with three children, she is separated from her husband Shaun, whom she left after falling in love with another man. She is eager to reconnect with her children, but her husband is not allowing her to do so. With no income and no place to live, she rents a cottage near the coast, from Donal and Dolores Mullen. Dolores has three children and is expecting her fourth. Her husband is mostly critical of her and does not extend her much kindness. Despite being aware of her husband’s infidelity, she has no option but to turn a blind eye to his affairs. Colette also starts writing classes where she strikes up a friendship with Izzy Keaveney, the wife of a local politician. Izzy, a mother of two and married for over two decades, is trapped in an unfulfilling marriage with a husband who gives no importance to her aspirations. Her only friend is Father Brian Dempsey, the parish priest who lends a sympathetic ear to her troubles.
The narrative follows these three women as their lives intersect and they are left to grapple with the consequences of the choices they make.
The vivid coastal setting, the lyrical yet restrained prose and the well-thought-out characters render this novel an engaging and thought-provoking read.
What primarily drew me to this novel was the premise. The author writes beautifully, creating a strong sense of time and place. Set in the years preceding the 1995 referendum, the author establishes the premise strongly, with an unflinching look into the different aspects of marriage viewed through the lens of our characters – communication, respect, intimacy, honesty, trust, fidelity, and motherhood- and the restrictive societal norms that contributed to the stifling conditions of women with no recourse to break away from toxic relationships.
The narrative is shared from multiple perspectives and is relatively slower-paced, which suits the nature of the story and allows us to explore the characters and their innermost thoughts and motivations. The main characters - complex and flawed – are portrayed as strong and resilient in their own way but also vulnerable, which struck me as realistic. I also appreciated the author’s depiction of small-town dynamics and how the same contributed to the trajectories of the lives of our characters. Needless to say, with the exception of Father Dempsey, none of the male characters are particularly likable, but given the subject matter, this was to be expected. I particularly liked the interactions in Colette’s writing class and wished we had more of those. This is a quiet novel, with minimal melodrama, even in its most shocking moments. The ending left me with a heavy heart and much to reflect upon.
Overall, I thought this to be a praiseworthy debut that I would not hesitate to recommend to those who enjoy character-driven fiction.
I look forward to reading more from this talented new author.
Many thanks to HarperVia for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
emotional
informative
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
4.5
Set in the mid-1990s, in the small Irish town of Ardglas, County Donegal, The Coast Road by Alan Murrin tells the story of three women navigating troubled marriages in an era before divorce was legalized.
Colette Crowley, a published poet, has returned from Dublin after a failed love affair. Married with three children, she is separated from her husband Shaun, whom she left after falling in love with another man. She is eager to reconnect with her children, but her husband is not allowing her to do so. With no income and no place to live, she rents a cottage near the coast, from Donal and Dolores Mullen. Dolores has three children and is expecting her fourth. Her husband is mostly critical of her and does not extend her much kindness. Despite being aware of her husband’s infidelity, she has no option but to turn a blind eye to his affairs. Colette also starts writing classes where she strikes up a friendship with Izzy Keaveney, the wife of a local politician. Izzy, a mother of two and married for over two decades, is trapped in an unfulfilling marriage with a husband who gives no importance to her aspirations. Her only friend is Father Brian Dempsey, the parish priest who lends a sympathetic ear to her troubles.
The narrative follows these three women as their lives intersect and they are left to grapple with the consequences of the choices they make.
The vivid coastal setting, the lyrical yet restrained prose and the well-thought-out characters render this novel an engaging and thought-provoking read.
What primarily drew me to this novel was the premise. The author writes beautifully, creating a strong sense of time and place. Set in the years preceding the 1995 referendum, the author establishes the premise strongly, with an unflinching look into the different aspects of marriage viewed through the lens of our characters – communication, respect, intimacy, honesty, trust, fidelity, and motherhood- and the restrictive societal norms that contributed to the stifling conditions of women with no recourse to break away from toxic relationships.
The narrative is shared from multiple perspectives and is relatively slower-paced, which suits the nature of the story and allows us to explore the characters and their innermost thoughts and motivations. The main characters - complex and flawed – are portrayed as strong and resilient in their own way but also vulnerable, which struck me as realistic. I also appreciated the author’s depiction of small-town dynamics and how the same contributed to the trajectories of the lives of our characters. Needless to say, with the exception of Father Dempsey, none of the male characters are particularly likable, but given the subject matter, this was to be expected. I particularly liked the interactions in Colette’s writing class and wished we had more of those. This is a quiet novel, with minimal melodrama, even in its most shocking moments. The ending left me with a heavy heart and much to reflect upon.
Overall, I thought this to be a praiseworthy debut that I would not hesitate to recommend to those who enjoy character-driven fiction.
I look forward to reading more from this talented new author.
Many thanks to HarperVia for the digital review copy via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.