2026 : Rune's Adventures in Reading

Hey Dragonners! Its Rune here and I want to start my new thread by saying thanks very much for all your interaction on my thread for last year and following along on my mad bookish adventures.

As with last year my reading will include audiobooks and some graphic novels. Some of my reviews here will be books that are yet to be published but regardless they are books that i read and with luck enjoyed.
My love affair with books started when i was very young and has continued well into my adult years I don't think its a thing that will ever leave me. I promise that my reviews will always be honest weather negative or positive.

My Reading Goal for 2026 is 115 books :)

Happy New Thread! :)

>1 RuneFirestar: That's a great goal! Happy new thread and enjoy your reading in 2026.

Happy new thread!

1.The Marlow Murder Club (Marlow Murder Club #1)
Robert Thorogood

Blurb

To solve an impossible murder, you need an impossible hero…

Judith Potts is seventy-seven years old and blissfully happy. She lives on her own in a faded mansion just outside Marlow, there’s no man in her life to tell her what to do or how much whisky to drink, and to keep herself busy she sets crosswords for The Times newspaper.

One evening, while out swimming in the Thames, Judith witnesses a brutal murder. The local police don’t believe her story, so she decides to investigate for herself, and is soon joined in her quest by Suzie, a salt-of-the-earth dog-walker, and Becks, the prim and proper wife of the local Vicar.

Together, they are the Marlow Murder Club.

When another body turns up, they realise they have a real-life serial killer on their hands. And the puzzle they set out to solve has become a trap from which they might never escape…

My Thoughts

I decided to start the year off with a re-read of a book I really enjoyed the 1st time around. Judith, Suzie and Becks are super amazing characters that I really enjoyed getting to know.

>6 RuneFirestar: Sounds like a really nice book :)

Happy 2026 thread, Rune! I hope you hit gold with some of the ARCs you receive :)

Happy New Year and new thread :)

2.Death Comes to Marlow ( Marlow Murder Club #2)
Robert Thorogood

Blurb

t’s been an enjoyable and murder-free time for Judith, Suzie and Becks – AKA the Marlow Murder Club – since the events of last year. The most exciting thing on the horizon is the upcoming wedding of Marlow grandee, Sir Peter Bailey, to his nurse, Jenny Page. Sir Peter is having a party at his grand mansion on the river Thames the day before the wedding, and Judith and Co. are looking forward to a bit of free champagne.

But during the soiree, there’s a crash from inside the house, and when the Marlow Murder Club rush to investigate, they are shocked to find the groom-to-be crushed to death in his study.

The study was locked from the inside, so the police don’t consider the death suspicious. But Judith disagrees. As far as she's concerned, Peter was murdered! And it’s up to the Marlow Murder Club to find the killer before he or she strikes again…

My thoughts

Another re read for the start of the year and its still as fun as i remembered. I am reading in preperation for the newest of the serries :) Plus its a good way to ease into my reading for the year and start off on a postive note.

3.The Queen of Poisons (The Marlow Murder Club #3)
Robert Thorogood

Blurb

The Marlow Murder Club is on the hunt for a killer... Geoffrey Lushington, Mayor of Marlow, dies suddenly during a town council meeting. When traces of aconite―also known as the queen of poisons―are found in his coffee cup, the police realize he was murdered. But who did it? And why?

The police bring Judith, Suzie, and Becks in to investigate the murder as civilian advisors right from the start, so they have free rein to interview suspects and follow the evidence to their heart's content… which is perfect because Judith has no time for rules and standard procedure. But this case has the Marlow Murder Club stumped. Who would want to kill the affable mayor of Marlow? How did they even get the poison into his coffee? And is anyone else in danger? The Marlow Murder Club is about to face their most difficult case yet...

My Thoughts

This is my 1st read of this book and I loved it as much as I loved the others in this series. Throrogood has written and exceptional mystery and wonderful characters that keep on growing with each new book. I thought I had an idea as to who dunnit but as usual I was very wrong.

really enjoyed this read.

Hapy new thread!

I enjoyed The Marlow murder club when I read it, and it's good to hear that the rest of the series is good too.

4. Inheritance ( The Lost Bride Trilogy #1)
Nora Roberts

Blurb

Inheritance is the first in The Lost Bride Trilogy by #1 New York Times bestselling author Nora Roberts―a tale of tragedies, loves found and lost, and a family haunted for generations.

1806: Astrid Poole sits in her bridal clothes, overwhelmed with happiness. But before her marriage can be consummated, she is murdered, and the circle of gold torn from her finger. Her last words are a promise to Collin never to leave him…

Graphic designer Sonya MacTavish is stunned to learn that her late father had a twin he never knew about―and that her newly discovered uncle, Collin Poole, has left her almost everything he owned, including a majestic Victorian house on the Maine coast, which the will stipulates she must live in it for at least three years. Her engagement recently broken, she sets off to find out why the boys were separated at birth―and why it was all kept secret until a genealogy website brought it to light.

Trey, the young lawyer who greets her at the sprawling clifftop manor, notes Sonya’s unease―and acknowledges that yes, the place is haunted…but just a little. Sure enough, Sonya finds objects moved and music playing out of nowhere. She sees a painting by her father inexplicably hanging in her deceased uncle’s office, and a portrait of a woman named Astrid, whom the lawyer refers to as “the first lost bride.” It’s becoming clear that Sonya has inherited far more than a house. She has inherited a centuries-old curse, and a puzzle to be solved if there is any hope of breaking it…

My Thoughts

I wasn't certain about this read as I have tried Nora Roberts in the past and just couldn't get on with her voice or style of writing. But it was a mystery and I am as much a sucker for them as I am for fairytale retellings so I picked them up from the local library in unabridged audio book format.

As always with audio reviews I start with the narration quality. It was very well done with each character given their own voice and manner of speaking so that there was never a doubt as to who was speaking.

When the story opens we meet Sonya MacTavish bride to be deep into the midst of the planning a huge glamorous wedding she's not even sure she wants but its what her Husband to be wants so it must be right ? Still finding everything to be slightly overwhelming she decides to skip the appointment with the fancy florist and head home. she figures that a bottle of wine and a good meal and some couples time everything will be fine. She didn't expect that choice would be the one that would find her cancelling her wedding.

In the aftermath of the wedding that didn't happen, and leaving a job she loved to strike out on her own as a freelance designer , the last thing Sonya expected was to find herself the heir to her long lost uncle fortune and his majestic Victorian Manor House on the coast of Maine. At first she can't believe its real and then her adventure begins.

The Story is pure magic and so well done . I loved Sonya and her friend Cleo. There are moments in this story that made me laugh out loud as well as moments that made me wonder if it was safe to continue listening.

Getting to Know Sonya, her mother,Cleo and the Doyals as well as the ghosts of the manor has been absolutely brilliant . IF you aren't certain that Nora Roberts is for you I highly recommend this series as starting point. I loved it.

5.The Mirror (The Lost Bride Trilogy, #2)
by Nora Roberts

Blurb

When Sonya MacTavish inherits the huge Victorian mansion on the coast of Maine, she has no idea that the house is haunted. The footsteps she hears at night, the doors slamming, the music playing, are not figments of her imagination. In her dreams she sees glimpses of the past. In the present she finds portraits of brides. And when she has visions of an antique mirror, she is drawn to it, sensing it holds dark family secrets.

Then one night the mirror appears and Sonya glides through this looking glass, into the past—and sees a bride murdered on her wedding day, the circle of gold torn from her finger. It is a scene that will play out again and again—a centuries-old curse that must be broken—and a puzzle she must solve if there is any hope of breaking the curse.

My Thoughts

As with the 1st book I went with the audio version as it was the easiest and quickest way for me to get a hold of the books and get stuck in. As with the 1st the Narration is on point. Each character has their own voice and manner of speaking so I am never trying to guess who is talking. I love that so much.

I loved the 1st book and this one just builds. The story is both heart breaking but also sooo beautiful and filled with love. The characters are amazing and keep growing and learning . I can not wait for the final book I have to know whats happened. This series is starting to look like my favourite read so far this year.

again if you aren't certain that Nora Roberts is for you or you have like me tried her in the past but just could not get on with her I highly recommend trying these. They are amazing.

6. How To Die Famous
Benjamin Dean

Blurb

A budding teen celebrity secretly investigates his brother's suspicious death while navigating the highs and lows of fame.

Rising star Abel Miller just landed a role in one of the hottest reboots on the Omni Channel, Sunset High. It looks like he’ll be yet another budding celebrity plucked from obscurity, but he has a problem: His brother, Adam, a production associate, died during the filming of the last attempt at Sunset High, and no one knows how or why. Abel is going to find out, but when he meets the other stars of the show—Lucky, Ryan, Ella, and creator Lake Carter—he realizes there’s darkness beneath the shimmer of fame. They all have secrets, and one of them is willing to kill to keep it that way.

My Thoughts

I was drawn to this one for the cover art. Light purple poster board feel. the title written in big black felt tip markers. The spill of popcorn and splatter of blood.

It was an odd color choice and I kept going back to it. I applied for the arc from Netgalley but didn't get it. Still the title and the cover art stayed with me so when it popped up in on my library page i was like why not.

I got it as an audio book and the narration style is to me slightly jarring and because it shifts from female to male view point, and at times both at same time, it felt garbbled anf i had to go back and re listen to sections to make sure i hadnt missed anything.

At its heart its a reminder that the actors that play characters we love are in fact people . And we should be mindful of that.

It also brings to light the often shady side of hollywood in that often times studios want actors/acress to be a certain way or maintain a certain look and can demand control and oversight in the guise of " We are looking after your best intrest"

That being said this mystery just wasn't what I thought it would be and has left me feeling ick.

7.Evergreen Academy
( Society of Magical Botanists#1)
Heather Schneider

Blurb

Welcome to Evergreen Academy, the secret college for Magical Botanists.

I’d always sensed something peculiar about the reclusive Evergreen Academy, tucked deep in the woods of my hometown. But I never could have imagined it was a college for magical botanists–and that I am one of them.

An invitation to the academy opens up a whole new world of wonder, yet my plant affinity powers remain elusive, and my scientific training is far behind that of my peers.

When I’m assigned a tutor, Callan Rhodes, a powerful descendant of the academy’s founders, I’m baffled by his willingness to help me.

Despite my challenges, I’m enchanted by the academy’s glass schoolhouse, its grounds which are overflowing with plants that defy the climate, and the quirky festivals held each equinox and solstice.

But disaster looms as the verdant shield that protects the academy from the prying eyes of nonmagical people begins to falter. Can Callan and the other founder’s descendants sustain the magic on their own, or will the clock finally start to tick on figuring out my powers?

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced reader copy if this work in audio format free of charge via Netgalley in return for an honest review.

I loved the narration for this story it was excellent. Each character was given their own voice and appropriate accent. I never lost track of who was speaking

I was drawn in by the cover art and hooked by the blurb. I absolutely loved the idea of a school for people who have plant based magic powers..

The characters are fun and dynamic they grow and change as the story progresses.

If your looking for a story that has a sweet small town vibe with a touch of magic this is totally the read for you. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.

>16 RuneFirestar: This sounds great! I like books with plant magic so I'll look out for this one.

8.Light Weaver
Lusine Torossian

blurb

When eighteen-year-old relic thief Satya steals an ancient resurrection artifact from the Golden King, she uncovers his dark secret: he's a puppet to a soul-harvesting sorcerer who is building an undead army—one that includes her fallen family.

Her escape through the treacherous Sophene Highlands leads her to Rei, an enemy warrior whose haunted history is intricately woven with her tragic past. As forbidden love blossoms amidst a divine war, Satya discovers that the legendary relic holds dual powers. Now she faces an impossible choice: resurrect her family by sacrificing her soul, or save the kingdom and lose them forever.

Caught between gods and demons, love and duty, Satya must decide what price she's willing to pay for the dead.

Some legends refuse to stay buried. Some choices demand everything.

My Thoughts
was given access to this work in audio book format from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

I was drawn to the cover art it looked like a woven tapestry . beautiful rich colors and the stunning flowers and white doves. with the intricate golden symbols then the blackness of the coiled shadow serpants it was bold and it drew me back to it several times. I wanted to know what story was waiting to be told , in the end i gave in and I found myself in the midst of an amazing adventure.

As with all audio reads I will start off by saying the narration is excellent. I adored this particular read even more because it was done by the author themselves so there was no guessing at pronunciations of names and places as is some times the case with things. Because she wrote it she knew exactly how it was ment to sound.

When I first picked up this story I never expected to find myself in the midst of a hiest nor an epic tale of Godpower used to entrap the souls of the dead or transform and corrupt living souls into terrifying monsters. But that is exactly what I got when I met eighteen-year-old relic thief Satya and her father in the middle of making their way into a treasury room of none other than the evil Golden King. They have searched the the kingdoms for a relic of myths and folklore for an ancient resurrection artifact all in the hopes of returning her mother and brother to life . Instead they are caught her father sacrifices himself to ensure Satya and the relics get away and she uncovers The most highly guarded secret in all the lands The King is nothing more than a monster: puppet to a soul-harvesting Priest sorcerer who is building an undead army—one that includes her fallen family.

Following Her escape The Kings halls, and her home city through the treacherous Sophene Highlands leads her to Rei, an enemy warrior whose haunted history is intricately woven with her tragic past. As forbidden love blossoms amidst a divine war, Satya discovers that the legendary relic holds dual powers. Now she faces an impossible choice: resurrect her family by sacrificing her soul, or save the kingdom and lose them forever.

Some legends refuse to stay buried. Some choices demand everything.
I really enjoyed this read it was amazing . The verses and bits of lore at the start of each chapter really helped to make the setting feel more real and alive. The mythology is based on Aremina myth and folk lore and was a really neat introduction to that as it was compleatly new to me and even as it was introduced it didn't pull me out of the story.

9.I Kissed Shara Wheeler
by Casey McQuiston

blurb

Chloe Green is so close to winning. After her moms moved her from SoCal to Alabama for high school, she’s spent the past four years dodging gossipy classmates and a puritanical administration at Willowgrove Christian Academy. The thing that’s kept her going: winning valedictorian. Her only rival: prom queen Shara Wheeler, the principal’s perfect progeny.

But a month before graduation, Shara kisses Chloe and vanishes.

On a furious hunt for answers, Chloe discovers she’s not the only one Shara kissed. There’s also Smith, Shara’s longtime quarterback sweetheart, and Rory, Shara’s bad boy neighbor with a crush. The three have nothing in common except Shara and the annoyingly cryptic notes she left behind, but together they must untangle Shara’s trail of clues and find her. It’ll be worth it, if Chloe can drag Shara back before graduation to beat her fair-and-square.

Thrown into an unlikely alliance, chasing a ghost through parties, break-ins, puzzles, and secrets revealed on monogrammed stationery, Chloe starts to suspect there might be more to this small town than she thought. And maybe—probably not, but maybe—more to Shara, too.

Fierce, funny, and frank, Casey McQuiston's I Kissed Shara Wheeler is about breaking the rules, getting messy, and finding love in unexpected places.

My Thoughts

This one has been in my tbr pile for awhile, I picked it up because it seemed interesting and I know what life is like in the bible belt of the deep south having lived there for 7 or so year, and though i was in Georgia and not Alabama, the south is the south and there are certain things that hold true no matter where in the south you might find yourself . And so few days ago it popped up on my suggested reads list so I decided why not.

Even though I had it as an ebook I decided to borrow the e- Audiobook from the local library. The narration is spot on the accents perfection and the way the students interacted and spoke to one another and adults felt real , honest.

The book itself is snap shots of life and friendships while telling us a coming of age story. A story of finding out who you are as well as learning that not everything it is as it seems. It had some breakfast club vibes going on.
All in all an intresting read. A reminder that life doesnt end with High School .

10. Immortal Consequences (The Souls of Blackwood Academy #1)
I.V. Marie

Blurb

Six students at Blackwood Academy, an enigmatic boarding school located at the edge of the afterlife, must compete for the once-in-eternity chance to change their fate—or risk remaining stuck in purgatory forever. An unputdownable debut full of hairpin twists, shock betrayals and world-defying love, for fans of The Atlas Six.

Welcome to Blackwood Academy: the legendary school located at the fringes of the afterlife, where students are fated to spend the rest of eternity shepherding lost souls. Once a pupil enters the school’s arched gates, there is no way out…except for the Decennial, a once-in-a-decade celebration that rewards nominees who pass its trials with a choice: formally graduate and join Blackwood’s magical elite, or venture into the unknown and cross over to the mysterious Other Side.

Wren Loughty is certain that this Decennial, she has what it takes to earn the nomination—unless, that is, her academic archrival Augustine Hughes steals her spot.

Irene Manette Bamford has never cared about playing by the rules. She’s willing to break whatever (and whoever) stands between her and getting the hell out of Blackwood, including her best and only friend, Masika Sallow.

Olivier Dupont gave up on securing the nomination ages ago. But after he meets Blackwood’s newest student, Emilio Córdova, he’ll do anything to keep Emilio from leaving him and crossing over to the Other Side—even if it means claiming the victory for himself.

All of them are determined to be Blackwood’s chosen candidate–and all of them would do anything to win. But none of them are prepared for what’s to come. Because this Decennial will be different. This time, the Decennial isn’t a celebration…it’s a competition. And there can only be one victor.

Six nominees. Four trials. Untold danger. Wren, August, Irene, Masika, Olivier and Emilio are about to learn: there are some fates worse than death.

My Thoughts

I picked this book up because it was the second pick of the year for my new book club. The idea that there is a school in purgatory for Teenage souls and as part of the college the students are sent out as reapers to help souls cross over is neat.

The descriptions of the dorms and the students rooms are so beautiful and fun. It brings a cozy vibe to dark academia that I hadn't really seen before so that was pretty cool.

but there is just so much that didn't fit. The magic system seemed messy and very undefined like you were never certain as to what could and could not be achieved. The students are taught how to place locks and wards on their rooms and yet people could just walk through or appear no consequnces. Making them feel pointless and unnecessary.

Also though the characters go from unfortunate acquaintances to actually starting to help and care for one another, you as a reader never really get to know them because your constantly switching view points.

It also felt rushed like the author didn't know how to build a story so you were pushed from one trial to the next with little to no transition time. I don't know if that's intentional or not but at times it felt very jarring .

Its a very intense read and you could easily read it in one or two days if you were so inclined.

11.Squib (The Coldstream Chronicles, #1)
by Helen Harper

blurb

She’s supposed to find him the perfect match. Falling for him herself was not part of the deal.

Mallory has zero magic. No spells, no shape-shifting and no flashy Preternatural strength. But in the magical city of Coldstream, Mallory has made knowledge her power and she turns secrets and favours into currency.

Enter Alexander alpha werewolf, wealthy businessman, and walking temptation. He wants Mallory to find him a mate. She wants absolutely nothing to do with him.

But MacTire isn’t used to hearing no—and Mallory’s not immune to his charm, no matter how hard she tries. What starts as a reluctant business arrangement soon turns into something dangerously personal. Because the more she gets to know him, the less she wants to help him find love ... with anyone but her.

The first book in the Coldstream Chronicles is jam-packed full of magic, mayhem, and slow-burn heat. It can be read as a standalone or alongside The Cat Lady Chronicles.

My Thoughts

I was given access to this title in Audio book format from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The audio was really fun the accents of each character really brought the story and the world of the story to life. I loved it.

Squib was a word I heard for the 1st time reading Harry potter. Its a slur for people with no magical abilities whatsoever. So when I came cross a book with Squib as a title I was curious I couldn't wait to see what kind of story I would find.

I was absolutely not ready for the bright, clever and resourceful Mallory Nash. She is a wonderful character who is very human and its super easy to find things about her to like . Alexander is a fun and sexy leading man. I adored this read from the setting to the characters every page has been pure fun . I will be keeping an out for the next book in the series.

>21 RuneFirestar: It sounds like a fun, wholesome book 😊

>22 Alexandra_book_life: Mallory is an information broker and gets into some sticky situations but yes its brilliant!

12.Tempest Awakening (The Dragonne Library #1)
by Emma Moon

Blurb

Welcome to The Dragonne Library, a world where librarians can be dangerous, magic flows freely, and finding the man—or men—of one's dreams isn't just a fantasy.

It was the right thing to do; move back in with my mom and help take care of my terminally ill step-father.

But everything changed when he passed away. Now I’m jobless, homeless, and adrift—it’s just me, my cat, and a car full of books.

Until a chance meeting lands me a job at The Dragonne Library. Yep, it’s a library for supernaturals, built by dragons, and maintained by shifters, fae, vampires… you get the idea. Basically, it’s my dream job.

But things change again when I accidentally bond with a dragon.

Suddenly, I'm not just a librarian… I’m training to be a dragon rider.

Unfortunately, the number of dragons who bond is limited. And not everyone is happy about a human bonding one of their own. I'll need to fight for my new place amongst the dragon riders.

Thank goodness I've made some new friends.

The brilliant rebel. The gentle warrior. The misfit demon. The tormented professor. And the psychotic loner.

I can't ignore the way my skin tingles at their touch. I know I shouldn't fantasize about any of them, much less all five. Yet, I find myself unable to resist.

But there are those with their own agenda, who'll stop at nothing to see Supes rule the world, even if that means murdering their way to the top.

My men and I will have to put aside our differences, our fears, and our worries, and become a team, or risk losing everything—and everyone—we love.

My Thoughts
I was provided with an advanced listener copy of this works audio book free of charge from Netgally in return for an honest review.

I was drawn to the book by the cover art. a Young woman with dark purple hair, glasses wearing a simple white shirt and jeans standing in a room filled with books and old scrolls some floating around her and in her hands she holds a book while summoning a fire ball from its pages. It caught my attention who was this girl? What was her story? Why was she drawing fire out of a book? or worse was she trying to burn the book!
I had to know the answers.

The story is Narrated by a woman who reads from Tempest's thoughts and view point and then a man takes over to read from the male protagonist when we meet him. I really loved the woman who read for Tempest but the man who read for the guys just made me want to stop listening. I didn't find his parts at all enjoyable.

The story opens and we find that in the world of the story they have had the unvailing and so Humans are aware of the supernatural and magical. Tempest has grown up as a book nerd dreaming of Fantasy worlds and dragons and handsome elves. She never expected to find herself living among them and working in a magical library that houses the history of all magical beings as well as humans. And just when she thought that would the best thing ever she finds herself bonded with a Dragon and becoming a trainee dragon rider. The first human to ever bond with a dragon and its caused no small commotion in the community she has found herself in.

The setting of the book is interesting and fun the idea that supernaturals live among us isn't new but the idea that they have chosen to step out into the metaphorical light and make the general population aware of their existence is pretty awesome. However we as the reader don't get to explore how it came to pass or why its just something that happened. That feels like something that could have been explored but the author rushed to get Tempest into a magical community and just as shes adjusting to the idea of life in a magical community she's like Be a dragon rider! I would have liked Tempest to get settled into her life and role as a librarian and maybe awaken her magic before she is just dumped into the next part of the story it felt really really rushed and i am not sure why.

I wanted to love this , I liked the concept but it needs more it feels very rushed and incompleate.

>21 RuneFirestar:
Before the arrival of Harry Potter the word “squib” meant a firework, i.e. a banger, a rocket, Catherine wheel, Roman candle, etc… We would have set off squibs at Halloween when we were young. Now we just complain about the noise they make.

Something that is a bit of a failure or a disappointment is called a “damp squib”. It is pretty obvious why; a damp firework will not perform as expected and will fizzle out.

>25 pgmcc: Didn't know that. The book is most certainly not a squib! I loved it from start to finish.

13.Charting Stars: Nine Realms Tales, Book One
Micheline Ryckman, Lauren Amanda(Narrator)

Blurb

A girl thrown between worlds. A prophecy untold. An unexpected romance. A quest for home.

Stargazer and artist Talia Benson never wanted an adventure. The titles of student, dutiful daughter, and crazy cat lady suited her just fine. But when she’s swept into an unknown world where sentient animals exist, monsters roam, and angelic beings sway fate, she’s forced to adjust to adventuring as she embarks on a quest to return to her quiet Canadian life.

Jarrett is the best runner in the Nine Realms. Well, maybe not the best––still, he’s proud of the reputation he’s built for himself. But with only a squirrel for company during his extensive travels, his social skills have grown rusty. At least, that’s what he tells himself when he impulsively delays an important mission to help a strange, vibrant girl find her way home.

Unbeknownst to most, turmoil brews in the otherworldly Nine Realms. The guardians have seen a shift in the heavens. Something has changed, a prophecy unleashed. A darkness is coming, throwing Talia, the runner she’s failing to suppress her feelings for, and their growing band of fantastical friends into the center of an oncoming war.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this works audio book release From Netgalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The Narration is excellent and I was never confused as to who was speaking.

I was drawn to the cover art a pair of young lovers a girl with short hair, and a main in a simple shirt and a broadsword almost kissing in an archway lit by linked floating glow globes. It seemed sweet I had to know what the story was.

Enter Talia Benson, a young artist living with her mom and her three cats. She wants to be an artist but has decided that she she needs to be practical as well so she has taken bussiness studies at college. As she finishes off a piece of work for an art class that she managed to slip in along side her practical classes she finds herself in a magical world.

Its a wonderful start to an adventure and the characters we meet are fun and interesting . they add to the story rather than take away. Was very enjoyable way to spend a few eveings.

14. Murder at the Foundling Hospital ( Tate and Bell Mystery #3)
Irina Shapiro

Blurb

Gemma’s boots slip on uneven ground and her black cape catches in the wind as she runs. “Please, not Lucy,” she prays.

Nurse Gemma Tate is heartbroken when she hears that one of her young charges at the Foundling Hospital has been killed. She knows that police inspector Sebastian Bell will work tirelessly to uncover the truth, but, obstructed by the curt matron, he’ll need her help navigating the cloistered world of the orphanage.

The mystery thickens when Sebastian finds a small wooden doll clutched in the murdered girl’s hand and Gemma hears whispers of a shadowy romance. But that isn’t the darkest secret hidden behind the high hospital walls. As time runs down on the investigation, Gemma won’t give up. But could the shocking discovery she makes be her last?

A gripping gas lit Victorian mystery, perfect for fans of Andrea Penrose, the Lady Sherlock mysteries, and Miss Scarlet and the Duke.

15.Murder at the Orpheus Theatre (Tate and Bell Mystery #4)
Irina Shapiro

Blurb

She looks hardly more than a child, sleeping, her lashes long and thick as they rest against her rounded cheeks. But in the flickering gaslight, she is unnaturally still…

For Inspector Sebastian Bell and nurse Gemma Tate, a night at the theater becomes a deadly spectacle when the two lead actors are found dead on the stage, murdered before a stunned audience. Drawn into a shadowy backstage world, they encounter a cast of suspects, each with desperate secrets to hide…

Sebastian is determined to get justice, and to keep Gemma safe from the dangerous killer circling the cobbled streets of Covent Garden. But she is already too deeply involved, and, in a world where everyone wears a mask, could she have trusted the wrong person…?

Be drawn into a heart-pounding Victorian mystery. With its richly drawn characters and simmering romance, this thrilling tale of murder and redemption is perfect for fans of Andrea Penrose, the Lady Sherlock mysteries and Miss Scarlet and the Duke.

My Thoughts

I have loved this series since the start and it has been a honour and a privilege to be an arc reader for this series. The books just keep getting better and better.

16. The Seven Rings (The Lost Bride Trilogy #3)
Nora Roberts

Blurb

The #1 New York Times -bestselling author concludes her compelling Lost Bride trilogy as two women—one dead, one alive—prepare for a terrifying final showdown…

Long ago, Arthur Poole built a grand house overlooking the turbulent ocean, in a Maine village that bore his name. Today, Sonya MacTavish lives in that house—a manor that has been cursed for generations. Within its walls, she has witnessed the deaths of seven brides and the thefts of seven wedding rings. And now, to break the curse and banish a malevolent spirit once and for all, a difficult task must be completed.

After Sonya, her boyfriend, Trey, and their friends are forced to hear, see—and feel—the suffering of the house’s many ghosts as their torment is reenacted by the evil presence, their bond only strengthens and their anger is renewed. Refusing to let her spirit be broken, Sonya searches each room for clues to her ancestors’ hidden story, putting the picture together, unearthing small treasures, and uncovering the moments of joy that existed among the sorrows. She’s determined to bring light to this haunted place—to fill it with people, with life and hope, once again.

But the enemy in the black dress continues to hover, to come at her in frightening forms. They may be illusions—but illusions can be powerful enough to wound and kill. She feeds on fear, and lies are her weapon. This dark-hearted witch wants to be mistress of Poole Manor, at any cost. And Sonya will need to fight a battle across two realms to finally take possession of the house on the clifftop—and of her own future…

My Thoughts

Oh I adored this series, the books are excellently written and the romance is just wonderful. There is so much to love and so much joy and light in these. If your looking for something to fill your heart this is it.

17.Legends & Lattes (Legends & Lattes, #1)
by Travis Baldree

blurb

After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time.

The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success — not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is.

If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won't be able to go it alone.

But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.

My Thoughts

I really loved this read the idea as coffee being described as " hot bean water" is just amazing. Its perfect for a rainy day or when you just dont know what to read. an amazing cozy adventure

You've been on a roll! The Tate and Bell series sounds good.

Re: Nora Roberts, I've only read her Brides quartet and the Key trilogy. The Key trilogy sounds like it might have similar vibes to >30 RuneFirestar:. The first book is Key of Light.

>32 libraryperilous: I have tried Nora Roberts in the past and just could not get on with her writing style or voice. it just did not work for me at all. So when my mom said you have to try these i will admit i hesitated but I am so glad that i gave them a go. they were amazing.

the Tate and Bell series has been wonderful watching the characters grow and change and develop. Its been wonderful and i still get a thrill whenever i get a notification that i have been picked to review the next one.

18. Murder on the Marlow Belle (The Marlow Murder Club #4)
Robert Thorogood

Blurb

Verity Beresford is worried about her husband. Oliver didn’t come home last night so of course Verity goes straight to Judith Potts, Marlow’s resident amateur sleuth, for help. Oliver, founder of the Marlow Amateur Dramatic Society, had hired The Marlow Belle, a private pleasure cruiser, for an exclusive party with the MADS committee but no one remembers seeing him disembark. And then Oliver’s body washes up on the Thames with two bullet holes in him – it’s time for the Marlow Murder Club to leap into action.

Oliver was, by all accounts, a rather complicated chap with a reputation for bullying children during nativity play rehearsals, and he wasn’t short of enemies. Judith, Suzie, and Becks are convinced they’ll find his killer in no time. But things are not as they seem in the Marlow Amateur Dramatic Society, and this case is not so clear-cut after all. The gang will need to keep their wits about them to solve this case, otherwise a killer will walk free …

My Thoughts

This is another series that i have been an advanced reader for since the start and I have loved each and every single moment spent with Juidth, Suzie and Bex. They are wonderful characers and brilliant women.

19.The Order of Grimm
Shiromi Arserio

Blurb

The bustling city-state of Märchen borders the Three Queendoms, represented by the Spindle, the Slipper and the Apple.

But the time of the godmothers has passed. If you want access to magic you either have to be one of the few who are born with it and live in hiding. Or extremely wealthy.

Former assassin Samara Dawa is bent on vengeance. When the opportunity arises to destroy the man who sold her as a child, she doesn’t hesitate. Soon Samara finds herself needing to infiltrate a magical auction run by the mysterious Order of Grimm.

The main item for sale: the last descendant of Queen White.

To pull off this heist she’ll need to put together a crew: an inside man, an explosives expert, a kinetics expert, a master forger and a getaway driver.

And she needs to do this all under the nose of her boss: the head of the thieves guild.

My thoughts

I was given an advanced reader audio copy of this work free of charge from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

The narrator is excellent and gives each character their own voice and way of speaking so you never have to guess. She is also excellent at bringing the world of the story to life and making it real for the reader.

From the cover art to the blurb this book had me hooked. I wanted know more about this this world the fae had left and the city states where minor magics are all that's left and magic items are Highly prized and sought after.

From the moment I started listening I couldn't walk away. This amazing story is skilfully woven world building paired with excellent characters who have very human reasons for acting the way they do. It's pure pleasure from start to finish and I look forward to the next book if there is one.

I wrote the review above in Feb of 2025 and I still feel the same way now.

20.The Glass Coffin Society
Shiromi Arserio

Blurb

She's a missing princess. They're a gang of thieves. The real crime would be giving her back.

After a daring heist to steal the last living descendant of Snow White, Samara and her crew do the they let her go.

But not everyone is happy about the decision.

Now, instead of counting their coin, they’ve painted targets on their backs.

As powerful enemies converge to hunt them down, and a brutal gang war threatens to erupt on the streets of Marchen, Samara must get her crew back together to stop a potential coup.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced reader copy of this work in audio book format from Netgalley Free of charge in return from an honest review.
The Narration is excellent because its Narration is provided by the Author so she knows exactly how to pronounce everything and how everything should be said.

The story takes place just weeks after the events of The Order of Grimm. The team has celebrated but parted ways on bad terms after Sam returns their coin and made the lost princess disappear. She knew the crew would be less than thrilled but she didn't expect them to walk away.

Now they find themselves watching their backs as a brutal gang war threatens the peace of Marchen. Caught in the middle Sarmara must not only reunite her people and try to figure out how to put things right.

oh and stop a potential coup on the neighbouring government.

This has wonderful character development, the story moves forward at a really fast pace that keeps you guessing and you have to know how its going to end. This was the perfect story and follow up to the 1st and i have a feeling that its just going to get better. I cant wait for the next instalment of this series!

21. In Bloom by Liz Allan

Blurb

The Bastards aren't afraid of anything.

It's the mid-nineties, and in the small, shitty coastal town of Vincent, four girls - each hailing from single-mother, multi-sibling families, form a band. Friends since they were children, they consider themselves 'forgettable girls' - distracted, disillusioned, and desperate to escape the fates of their mothers.

Winning the Battle of the Bands is their ticket out - they might not have talent, but they can play three chords and scream until their vocal folds burst out of their throats - and nobody wants it more than them.

But when lead singer Lily Lucid quits, and accuses their idolized music teacher of sexual assault, the three remaining girls are left with nothing. They'll do anything to keep their dream alive, even if it means sacrificing school, Lily and their mothers. But how far out of control can they spin before there's no turning back?

My Thoughts

I got this advanced listener copy of this works Audio book free of charge from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

the narration is done very well but at times i did have to stop and go back because i lost track of who was ment to be speaking.

Set in the mid-nineties four girls in a small coastal town of Vincent in Australia. They have single mothers and all have multi- siblings. They call themselves The Bastards because none of them have fathers. There are boyfriends who stay but never last and never do more drink and threaten. They are " Forgettable girls " distracted and disillusioned with life. They are desperate to escape the town and to not become their mothers.

friends since kindergarten they have always been together. Together they can dream , together they are strong and they are certain that by forming a band, practising hard and winning the big Battle of the bands competition they can change their fates.

But their dream starts to fade when their lead singer and friend Lily Lucid quits and accuses the one person who was willing to see them as more than " Forgettable "of sexual assault. The girls are certain that it can't be true but Lily isn't talking .


The story is told from The views of all the girls at the start of the book but then after Lily quits its stays with the three remaining friends. Its fast paced and is very much told from the view points of very young teens trying to figure the world out and their place in. It has depictions of drug use and underage drinking.
Its very much a coming of age story that you have to be in the right mindset for.
I honestly don't know how i feel about this read

22. Graceless Heart (The Spellbound History Quartet #1)
Isabel Ibañez

Blurb

In 15th-century Volterra, sculptress Ravenna Maffei enters a competition hosted by a secretive, immortal family who offer an invaluable boon to the victor. Desperate to win so she can save her brother, Ravenna reveals a rare magical talent--a dangerous act in a city where magic is forbidden. Her revelation makes her a target, and she is kidnapped by the Luni family and taken to Florence, a city of breathtaking beauty and cutthroat ambition.

There, Ravenna is forced into an impossible task where failure means certain death at the hands of Saturnino dei Luni, the family's enigmatic and merciless heir. But under his cold reserve hides a vulnerability that draws her closer than she ever intended.

Meanwhile, Ravenna's forbidden magic does not go unnoticed. The Pope, waging war against Florence, the Medici, and magic itself, has his own interest in her abilities, seeing her as a potential weapon in his ruthless campaign.

As alliances shift and war brews on the horizon, Ravenna must navigate the treacherous line between survival and betrayal, between love and duty. With time running out and her every move watched, the choices she makes will determine the fate of not just her own life, but the fragile balance of magic and power that could unravel Florence itself.

My Thoughts

I provided with an advanced reader copy of this works audio book via Net Galley free of charge in return for an honest review.

As with all audio books I will start off by saying that the narration is good but at times I am uncertain who is speaking and i have had to go back and re listen which was annoying and lessened the enjoyment of the story.

I read the blurb and I really wanted to know what the story held. Sadly the story did not live up to the blurb. There were alot of things that just did not make a whole lot of sense to me . I dislike the semi self loathing because she has magic and it did kill someone for no reason. But it gets old fast.

She enters the sculpting compition and uses a magical stone in her work hoping it will allow her to win even when she knows it means that she will have announced that she has magic and that means she no longer has a home or a family.
She wins the compition and is basically kidnapped by the Luni family who are Immortals? i think possibly fae. And her 1st thought is to try to run away back to her family who will not acknowedge her because to do so would be to admit they were aware of her magick and thus could be charged as heritics and enemies of the church.

It just gets worse from there.

I did not enjoy this read and it was not what I thought it was.

>38 RuneFirestar: I DNFed that one rather quickly. Also, OMG, it's going to be a quartet?

>39 libraryperilous: sadly yes i think so. Someone out there will adore it and that's fine but its just not gonna be me.

23. This Story Might Save Your Life
by Tiffany Crum

blurb

Benny Abbott and Joy Moore host one of the most beloved podcasts in the world. Each week they delight listeners with a different "against-all-odds" survival story, gleefully finding the weird life-affirming humor in near-death experiences.

Since their first episode on Joy's own experience with narcolepsy they've been the best friends everyone wants to befriend, and thanks to the meticulous management of Joy's spouse, Xander, they've built a lucrative empire.

But then one morning, without any warning, Joy and Xander go missing. The only clue shedding light on the couple's disappearance is the incomplete, previously unseen first draft of Joy's memoir, and no one, not even Benny, can guess how it ends.

As the hours tick by and the police zero in on Benny as the prime suspect in Joy and Xander's disappearance, the odds seem increasingly stacked against either of them being found alive. If Benny wants to find Joy in time, and clear his own name, he'll have to solve the highest stakes survival story yet.

My Thoughts

I was given this an advanced listener copy of this book in audio format from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review .

The narration is good it switches back and forth between a female narrator ( joy) and a male narrator (Benny). There are times when i had to re-listen to parts because at times I would get lost between the present and like excerpts from the unpublished pages of the book they are writing together.

The story itself is very well written and very fast paced. I had never met anyone who lived with narcolepsy or a character who suffered with it so that was very interesting to read and learn about.
The story is decently paced and moves along at a good rate , very well written. There wasn't a moment when I dragged or felt slow. I just had to know what happened.

Also the podcast episodes that we do get to here are fun and did make me laugh.

altogether a great read and a brilliant mystery thriller. really enjoyed this read.

>41 RuneFirestar:
Think you have scored a direct hit with this BB. It sounds like my kind of book.

24. Alchemy of Secrets (Alchemy of Secrets #1)
Stephanie Garber

Blurb

It starts with a class in an old movie theatre. Folklore 517: Local Legends and Urban Myths, taught by a woman called the Professor.

Most students believe the Professor's stories are just fiction, but Holland St. James has always been convinced that magic is real.

Her search for the truth leads her to a dazzling new world, a deadly ultimatum hidden at the heart of Los Angeles, and into the path of a magnetic stranger who claims he's been sent to save her life.

But everyone in this intoxicating new world is lying to her, even this stranger. And if she can't figure out whom to trust, her magical reality could change from a Hollywood dream to a nightmare.

My Thoughts

What a wild and and slightly spooky ride this read was. Garber is an amazingly talented story teller and this is beautifully done. I can sum the whole book with this " Trust no one and to thy own self be true "

25.The Seven Dials Mystery (Superintendent Battle #2)
Agatha Christie

Blurb

Gerry Wade had proved himself to be a champion sleeper, so the other houseguests decided to play a practical joke on him. Eight alarm clocks were set to go off, one after the other, starting at 6:30 a.m. But when morning arrived, one clock was missing and the prank then backfired, with tragic consequences.

For Jimmy Thesiger in particular, the words "Seven Dials" were to take on a new and chilling

26. For Whom the Belle Tolls (Hell's Belles #1)
Jaysea Lynn

Blurb

They told her to go to Hell.
She’ll go on her own terms.

Lily is less than thrilled about her arrival to the Afterlife, but what awaits her is more fantastical than she ever could have imagined. Deities wait in line at the coffee shop. Fae flit between realms. Souls find ways to make death a beginning.
As Lily explores everything the Afterlife has to offer, she finds herself drawn to a place most people would rather avoid at all Hell.
What she discovers there subverts everything she’s ever learned, and Lily realizes the demons working at the gate to guide souls need help—badly. Armed with years of customer service experience and pent-up sarcasm, Lily carves out a place for herself among the demons, confronting, sassing, and aiding the spectrum of humanity to redefine justice and redemption.
A chance meeting with Bel, a demon general with a distractingly sexy voice, sparks an immediate and deeply healing friendship. However, the undeniable heat between them simmers, and it’s only a matter of time before it combusts.
Meanwhile, something stirs beyond the boundaries of their world, threatening to destroy everything they’ve ever known and everything that could be… unless they fight like Hell to stop it.

My thoughts

Oh wow, this read has made me laugh out loud, cry my eyes out and has been just so wonderful. Its pure joy from start to finish. And the tiktok serries Helles Belles is beyond brilliant. I highly recommend this book to anyone and the serries as well.

>44 RuneFirestar: This is on Netflix. Do you know if it's worth watching?

>46 jjwilson61: i tried but could not get into it.

>46 jjwilson61:
It is an excellent production, and well acted. There are only three episodes, so it is not a big commitment to watch it.

Ok, that's one for the "I thought he was already dead" list. Sang a lot of hits though.

27. Eleanor and the South Beach Murders (Eleanor Roosevelt Mystery #2)
Ellen Yardley

Blurb

For fans of Colleen Cambridge, S.K. Golden, Jacqueline Winspear, and Ashley Weaver, a brilliant 1950s Cold War historical mystery featuring the former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt’s indispensable assistant as an equally resourceful sleuth. As the duo become entangled in a deadly international mystery connected to famous performer Josephine Baker, can Kay trust her own instincts before it’s too late?

Miami, 1951. With a flurry of UN engagements bringing Mrs. Roosevelt to vibrant South Beach, Kay Thompson is thrilled to escape the post-Christmas blues in Washington, DC—and distance herself from the sting of her recent breakup with private investigator Tim O’Malley. The dizzying sights and sounds of Miami reach their peak at the Copa City Club, where a late-night meeting with singer Josephine Baker reveals a troubling Baker’s bold stand against segregation has made her a target.

Josephine dismisses the threats. But Rosaleen—her cautious young assistant with big dreams—is deeply afraid. That’s why it’s a stunning shock when a dead man turns up in Josephine’s dressing room and Rosaleen is the one arrested for his murder. Determined to exonerate her new friend, Kay realizes it will mean facing conspiracies and prejudices that reach into the darkest corners of American society still haunted by the horrors of World War II.

Now, tangled in a high-stakes murder case with lives and legacies on the line, Kay joins forces with Mrs. Roosevelt and her former flame to confront the sinister forces lurking just beneath Miami’s glittering Art Deco surface. But when a killer’s scheme comes into sharp focus, Kay must act swiftly in a quest for justice that proves far more dangerous than she ever bargained for . . .

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced reader copy of this work in audio book format free of charge from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

As always with Audio books I will start off by saying the narration is well done though at times I did get slightly confused at times when all the ladies spoke. It felt like at times the Narrator would start speaking like one character and just forget that they needed to use another voice.

I love a good mystery and when its set at such an intresting time in history sign me up! I will be honest I don't know much about The Cold war or why it happened. I knew at this point that america was dealing with segregation and that the KKK were on the rise. With this read I learned more about that time, our one time 1st Lady Mrs. Eleanor Roosevelt and the famous singer Josephine Baker.

Kay Thompson is a wonderful character, She's bright and sassy and knows what she wants. The story is entertaining, informative and emotional. The mystery is very well written and as always I never guessed who actually commited the murder.

All in all a very good read perfect for a lazy sunday afternoon.

28. The Rose Bargain ( The Rose Bargain #1)
Sasha Peyton Smith

Blurb

London, 1848—For four hundred years, England has been under the control of an immortal fae queen who tricked her way onto the throne. To maintain an illusion of benevolence, Queen Mor grants each of her subjects one opportunity to bargain for their deepest desire.

As Ivy Benton prepares to make her debut, she knows that not even a deal with the queen could fix what has gone wrong: Her family’s social standing is in shambles, her sister is a shadow of her former self, and Ivy’s marriage prospects are nonexistent. So when the queen announces a competition for Prince Bram’s hand, Ivy is the first to sign her name in blood. What a bargain can’t fix, a crown certainly could.

Ivy soon finds herself a surprising front-runner—with the help of an unexpected ally: Prince Bram’s brother, the rakish Prince Emmett, who promises to help Ivy win his brother’s heart…for a price. But as the season sweeps Ivy away, with glittering balls veiling the queen’s increasingly vicious trials, Ivy realizes there’s more at stake than just a wedding. Because all faerie bargains come with a cost, and Ivy may have discovered hers too late.

My Thoughts

I was drawn to this book by the stunning cover art the rich roses with their vines , the thorns smeared with blood and captured within two gold rings one a young womans and then other a mans. Both absolutely beautiful . The cover art for the dust jacket drew me in and when it came away a forest green book with a single golden rose in its center.

With that and the blurb i was hooked and had to know what the story was. I just could not walk away.
And wow what a story it is! Its the start of the season and Ivy Benton is preparing for her presentation in court. This is where she will make her debut into society and with luck correct the shambles that is her families current non existant social standing. All she has to do is make a smart bargain with a cruel Fae Queen and find a decent husband . What she didn't expect was to be part of a competition for the hand of the Crown Prince and the title of Princess. She has to win, for her sister, her family and most of all for herself.

But With the fae and her heart in the balance She learns that this may not be as easy as she hoped.

The story is beautifully written and so fast paced. The characters are wonderful and you get to hear from each of the 6 girls who win a place to try for Brams hand. With twists and turns and beautiful gowns as well as vicious trials this book has sooo much to offer. I read it in one day I just couldn't put it down and had to know what happend next.

If you are a fan of Holly Blacks Fae this is certainly the read for you!

>49 Bookmarque: Is this about Neil Sedaka? LOL, I had the same thought.

>50 RuneFirestar: I stumbled across this series a few days ago. It sounds good!

>52 libraryperilous: Yeah it was. Happens to me all the time, some person way past their peak popularity dies and since no one's heard about them in forever, it's a surprise that they were alive the whole time.

29. The Midnight Croissant ( Pearly Gates #2)
Bonnie Solomon

Blurb

The afterlife’s sassiest spirit guide is about to slay Paris.
All she has to do is wrangle a few wayward souls—including her own.

Fresh off a solo incarnation of self-imposed solitude, spirit guide Pearly Gates is trying to follow the rules—or at least appear like she is. But when her first official charges—a prickly retiree, a guilt-ridden widower with a closeted grandson, and a young woman for whom romance has never quite clicked—hit a spiritual dead end, Pearly makes a bold move. She nudges them into a group tour of the City of Love…then tags along in disguise.

Her boss is not amused. The deal? If Pearly can raise their spiritual vibes by the end of the trip, she wins the freedom to guide her way. If not, it’s back to cosmic waste management. No pressure.

From midnight snacks to museum flirtations, moonlit magic to Pride celebrations, Pearly’s meddling sparks transformations she never expected. And when her ex-soulmate signs on as their tour guide—hoping to reconnect—she’s forced to reconsider the walls she’s built around her own heart. Can they finally break their old patterns, or are they doomed to repeat history all over again?

Set in present-day Paris, The Midnight Croissant is a warm, inclusive fantasy celebrating love in all its forms—full of found family, fresh starts, and the magic of showing up as your fabulous, flawed, self.

My Thoughts

I was an advanced listener copy of this works audio book Via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

The Narration for this one like the 1st is done by the author and aside from a few odd pronunciations the narration is very excellent.

In this book we check in once again with the most Fabulous spirit guide the afterlife has ever seen Pearly Gates. After she got her White robe and became a guide she decided that she needed solo incarnation, one of self-imposed solitude so that she could grow and prove to herself that she was strong enough to stand on her own without a soul mate.

Having done welll she is back in the afterlife and now has her first officially sanctioned charges and all the paperwork that goes with it. However, they seemed to have stagnated and nothing Pearly has done so far as really changed anything and her boss is getting ready to send her on a one way ticket to the null region.

So Enter her bright idea to send them all on a group tour to Paris and to tag along in disguise in hopes that she can raise their vibe check and open their eyes to some spiritual growth.

Just like the first book this one is full of wonderful moments that will make you laugh and cry. I really enjoyed this read.

30. Odd Thomas ( Odd thomas #1)
Dean Kootnz

Blurb

Odd by name, a hero by nature.

He’s Odd. Odd Thomas, to be precise. Genius fry-cook at the Pico Mundo grill; boyfriend to the gorgeous Stormy Llewellyn – and possibly the only person with a chance of stopping one of the worst crimes in the bloody history of murder…

Something evil has come to the desert town that Odd and Stormy call home. It comes in the form of a mysterious man with a macabre appetite, a filing cabinet full of information on the world’s worst killers, and strange, hyena-like shadows following him wherever he goes. Odd is worried. He knows things, sees things – about the living, the dead and the soon to be dead. Things that he has to act on. Now he’s terrified for Stormy, himself and Pico Mundo. Because he knows that on Wednesday August 15, a savage, blood-soaked whirlwind of violence and murder will devastate the town.

Today is August 14. And Odd is far from sure he can stop the coming storm…

My thoughts

I 1st read this in high school. I loved it then and even more now .

31Limelight (A Penny Green Victorian Mystery #1)
Emily Organ

Blurb

“Miss Green, the actress Lizzie Dixie has been murdered.” I stared at the young inspector. “But it’s impossible. She drowned. Years ago.”

London, 1883. Fleet Street’s pioneering lady reporter Penny Green is stunned when a long-dead actress is found murdered in Highgate Cemetery. Lizzie Dixie supposedly drowned in the River Thames years ago, so how did she end up shot to death on a foggy October night? Penny’s personal connection to the victim draws her into the case, as does the charm of Scotland Yard inspector James Blakely. But her return to work sparks the attentions of someone with evil intent.

Why did Lizzie fake her own death? Who knew she was still alive? With each revelation, the killer draws nearer. Can Penny unmask the culprit before she becomes the next victim? Or will the bright lights of Victorian London be forever dimmed by a killer lurking in the shadows?

My Thoughts

I recieved this an advanced reader copy of this work in ebook format from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

I will be the first to tell you I am a sucker for a mystery. I grew up watching Murder she wrote and other shows like it. I fell in love with cozy mysteries of Agatha Christie and others.

So Historical fiction with a pluckie female reporter in Victorian Lodon? I am so there!

Penny green is an amazing young woman with spirit and the idea that a woman can be more than mother and wife. She has made a life for herself working for The Morning express.

She hadn't thought she would find herself looking into the murder of her friend and actress Lizzie Dixie. Especially when she along with all of London thought that Lizzie had met her end in a fatal boating accident five years previously.

She is desperate to find out why Lizzie faked her death and who ended her life. To do so she teams up with a very young, handsome, up and comming Police
inspector James Blakely.

This is an enthralling and compleatly atmospheric historical mystery that will keep you reading long past your bed time.

The characters are warm , fun and very human. The story is beautifully written and will keep you guessing right up until the end.

32.The Antique Hunter's Death on the Red Sea
( Antique Hunter’s #2)
C.L. Miller

Blurb

When a painting vanishes from a maritime museum and a dead body is found nearby, the newly established Lockwood Antique Hunter’s Agency, Freya Lockwood and her Aunt Carole, are called to investigate.

Following a lead that takes them aboard a glamorous antiques cruise sailing toward the Red Sea in Jordan, they quickly discover that the ships art gallery is filled with stolen antiquities. Each antique is also listed in Freya’s late mentor’s journals that detail unsolved cases. In chasing a murderer with a stolen painting, they may have found something more sinister than they could’ve imagined…

Their hunt soon turns deadly when they learn the enigmatic and dangerous art trafficker named The Collector could be on board. But on a ship full of antiques enthusiasts—plus some unexpected familiar faces—will Freya and Carole be able to discover the Collector’s identity and stop his murderous plans before the ship docks? Or will the killer strike again?

My Thoughts

Huge shout out to Netgalley for giving me advanced reader access to this title in ebook format.

We return to Crockleford Antiques and find that Freya and her amazingly fablous Aunt carol have established Lockwood Antique Hunter's Agency. They have even hired a third member to be a part of their merry little band, Sky a smart , computer wiz who can handle the internet side of things.
It all seems to be comming together wonderfully.

If only they could just get a decent case to really show off their skills life would be just perfect. Then the local gallery is robbed of a single painting and soon Freya and Carol find themselves on the case to recover item and on a very glamouorous cruise .

The story just like the 1st book is very well done and the characters go from strength to strength. You learn more about Freya and Arthur's past adventures and history as the story builds

Its a wonderful read for a lazy saturday or sunday.

33.Spider, Spider
by L.C. Winter

Blurb

Vengeance is theirs and theirs alone. But who will deal the fatal blow?

Young Nancy Ratcliffe is on the run. Her father had sought refuge for his family with the Brethren, led by the charismatic but dangerous Prophet. But now her father is gravely ill, and even the sooty streets of Victorian London hold less terror for Nancy than the brutality of Brethren Hall.

Meanwhile, Spider is biding her time. Wrapped in dreams and visions, she paces the dark corridors and hidden staircases of the crumbling house she grew up in. The man who murdered a part of her disappeared many years ago, but still she hopes for revenge.

Jet-black and thrilling, Spider, Spider is an unforgettable tale of a woman who has lost herself in the poison of vengeance, and the knife-sharp girl who might just bring her back.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this books audio format from Netgalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The narration is quality is excellent however it feels like the narrator may not be experinced as all the characters sound the same and so it means that everything runs together leaving the reader wondering who is talking. I had to relisten to whole sections of this audiobook because i lost track of who.was talking to who.

It has time skips and jumps around from character to character which feels very jarring and almost pulls you out of the story. Maybe thats as intended ? I dont particularly enjoy that narritive style.

The story boils down to the abuse of two young women by the same man. He uses the church and calls himself prophet and believes that the small acts of cruelty he hands out like party favours are justified and wil save souls.

The book had an unfinished quality and i was left feeling unsatified with it.

34. Skulduggery Pleasant
( Skulduggery Pleasant #1)
Derek Landy

Blurb

Stephanie's uncle Gordon is a writer of horror fiction. But when he dies and leaves her his estate, Stephanie learns that while he may have written horror, it certainly wasn't fiction. Pursued by evil forces intent on recovering a mysterious key, Stephanie finds help from an unusual source - the wisecracking skeleton of a dead wizard.

My thoughts

I have followed and loved this series since it started. I attempt to re-read it each time a new book comes out. Lets see how far i get this time.

35. Echoes in Time (Kendra Donovan, #7)
by Julie McElwain

Blurb

The bizarre murder of one of Queen Charlotte’s ladies-in-waiting is only the beginning…
When FBI-agent-turned-time-traveler Kendra Donovan is asked to investigate the suspicious death of Lady Westford, she finds herself on a harrowing journey through Regency England’s most taboo traditions. Every layer she peels back uncovers more puzzles, including Lady Westford’s interest in a dead woman who’d been mysteriously drained of all her blood. This isn’t the first time Kendra has battled a ruthless madman…but one mistake, one misstep and it may be her last.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this works audio book via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The narration was excellent and the narrator really worked at giving each character their own accent and manner of speaking so that as a listener i was never left guessing as to who i was listening too. They really worked hard to bring the story and its setting to life.

I love a good murder mystery having been raised as i was on a steady diet of Murder she wrote, diagnosis murder and other crime shows The idea of Time Travel murder mystery had me hooked. Time period the author chose is one of the most interesting times in Englands history The Georgian era. There was a lot of poverty and yet there was theatre, dances, balls and also lots and lots of advancements being made in science and medicine though not as much as we would like to think.

Add to this setting a time traveling female FBI agent Kendra Donovan who has just marred a Duke to become a member of the Gentry. Throw in the murder of a lady in waiting and then an actress and you have the recipe for a brilliant story.

I loved this story from start to finish and really couldn't wait to see how it would end find out who the bad guy was. My only pet pevee is that I didn't realise that this was book 7 in the series, but even with that I never felt like I was missing anything or that there were things I should know that i didn't.

36. Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass, #1)
by Sarah J. Maas

Blurb

When magic has gone from the world, and a vicious king rules from his throne of glass, an assassin comes to the castle. She does not come to kill, but to win her freedom. If she can defeat twenty-three killers, thieves, and warriors in a competition to find the greatest assassin in the land, she will become the king's champion and be released from prison.

Her name is Celaena Sardothien.

The Crown Prince will provoke her. The Captain of the Guard will protect her. And a princess from a foreign land will become the one thing she never thought she'd have again: a friend. But something evil dwells in the castle-and it's there to kill. When her competitors start dying, horribly, one by one, Celaena's fight for freedom becomes a fight for survival, and a desperate quest to root out the source of the evil before it destroys her world.

My thoughts

I read this for the first time when it came out but i am re reading it now as part of the massverse challenge.

This story has something to offer everyone. Court intruge and politics to huge world building. The characters are wonderfully complex and developed.

I cant wait to see what happens in the next book.

37. The Night We Met
( Say You'll Remember Me #2)
Abby Jimenez

Blurb

A beautiful, compelling novel that revels in laughter, friendship, and the messy choices life can throw our way.

In everyone’s life, there’s a split-second decision that can change everything...

For Larissa, it came when choosing which guy to ride home with after a concert. That night, she had no idea she’d met the perfect man. She and Chris are great together, co-parenting a slightly unhinged rescue Yorkie, sharing their favorite books, and judging bread (pumpernickel for the win!). For the first time amid all her side hustles to scrape by, things finally feel easy.

But Chris isn't the one who drove Larissa home all those months ago—Chris is her boyfriend's best friend. All Chris wants is for Larissa to be happy. Standing by on the sidelines is slowly killing him, but making a move would destroy someone else. And he’s just not that guy.

38. The Faraway Inn by Sarah Beth Durst

Blurb

After a devastating heartbreak, a teen girl decides to spend her summer helping her eccentric great aunt manage her quaint Vermont inn--but this fixer-upper is hiding a magical secret--in this cozy and irresistable new fantasy from the New York Times bestselling author of The Spellshop.

Sixteen-year-old Calisa is desperate for a change of scenery after her lying ex ruins her perfect Brooklyn summer. When her parents suggest she head to rural Vermont to help her great-aunt run her cozy bed and breakfast for a few months, she jumps at the chance.

But when Calisa arrives at the B&B, she's shocked to find a rundown inn with only a handful of guests. And to make matters worse, upon meeting with her great-aunt it quickly becomes clear that Calisa was not invited. Auntie Zee is determined to keep anyone from messing with her beloved inn…even if it is clear she needs the help.

To earn her keep, Calisa sets to work fixing up the inn, enlisting extra help from the groundskeeper's (handsome) son. But the longer she stays, the more it becomes evident that there is something strange about the B&B—and its residents. Something almost…otherworldly.

The inn is keeping a magical secret—but to protect the place she's come to love, Calisa must unravel the truth of it, and her aunt, before it's too late.

My thoughts

I saw the front cover and read the blurb and thought this could be an amazing read.
It was made even better because I again read it along side my mom .

So we would set a goal and then read up to that chapter and on a weekend we would video call and disscuss it.

This book is full of cozy , sweet and fun moments. I loved this one is one is on the list as a favorite for this year so far.

39.Drop Dead Famous
Jennifer Pearson

Blurb

When global singing sensation Blair Baker rises on a platform high above the stage for the opening number of her triumphant hometown concert, the crowd erupts in applause. But their joy quickly turns to horror when they realize Blair is dead. The shocking revelation that music's brightest star has been murdered rocks the world. But for her younger sister, Stevie, the tragedy is more than a headline - it's personal.
Determined to uncover the truth, Stevie dives headfirst into the shadows of her sister's glittering life.

What begins as a search for answers turns into a dangerous journey through the toxic underbelly of fame, where betrayal, manipulation, and obsession thrive. Yet, as Stevie peels back the layers of who her sister really was, she begins to uncover dark secrets closer to home - secrets that someone is desperate to keep buried...

My thoughts

This book from start to finish has been a wild and dark ride. I really enjoyed getting to know Stevie and her friend Colby. Both were real and very human.

This is perfect for fans of a Good Girls Guide to Murder. And i promise it will keep you up long after your bed time wanting to know what will happen next

40.Heart of the Wolf Queen
Sarah Gallego

Blurb

Love could be her greatest weakness… or her deadliest weapon.

Sorrow Villente is no princess waiting to be saved.

When a devastating accident partially blinded her, Sorrow was locked away at the top of a tower in the wilderness, offered up as a sacrifice to the gods.

But Sorrow refuses to die quietly. Only she knows a dark magic burns inside her. With her fiercely protective wolf, Pablo, she spends every moment plotting her escape.

And yet when she finally breaks free, Sorrow is captured immediately… by the one man she never expected to see again.

Long ago, Sorrow and Matthias were inseparable. Tall and devastatingly handsome, with sparkling green eyes, the sight of him still sends her heart racing. Then she remembers the truth. When she needed him most, Matthias walked away. He didn’t just abandon her. He betrayed her.

And he hasn’t come to rescue her. Matthias is the ruler of a distant land, where monsters lurk in mist-shrouded forests. To save his kingdom, he needs an alliance with Sorrow’s family – one that can be sealed only by marriage.

Sorrow must marry the man who broke her heart… or die.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of the audiobook via Netgalley free of charge in return for an honest review. The narration is spot on it adds to the story and really brings its world and the characters to life. There is never any doubt as to who is speaking.

The mythology of the world is interesting and I found the story of how the world was created and why really cool.
the idea that the cursed meteor that an angry and jealous god created that the goddess destroyed but shards of it still fell to the world and if a mortal was touched by the shards it meant that they would develop magical gifts is something i had not heard of before so that was kind of neat. Most being only gifted with one gift was natural being gifted with more was considered to be deviant and often they were stronger than average with at least one of the gifts they called on.

Also the idea of Necromancy being a gift was also an interesting one. I have never seen that presented as a gift.

I really liked Sorrow she is losing her sight due to a riding accident and so she depends on a wolf to keep her safe and act as her guide. Even as she does so she tries to be as independent as possible. She is high spirited, very strong willed and knows her own mind. She doesn't let her handicap define her.

The other characters that we meet are very human and some are down right despicable.

The story is perfect if your looking for a fantasy adventure with romance mixed in. I really liked this read.

41. By the Orchid and the Owl
(The Esholian Institute #1)
By Mariah Montoya, Amy Hall (Narrator)

Blurb

On the island of Eshol, a ruling council gifts magic to all its citizens—whether they want it or not.

Eighteen-year-old Rayna Drey should be excited for her Branding, when the island's Good Council will infuse her blood with one of five sanctioned the ability to wield elements, summon objects, shift forms, talk to wildlife, or manipulate minds. And the institution she must attend afterward, to learn how to control her new gift, is only a little dangerous.

As soon as she arrives at the Esholian Institute, however, a peer-pressured dare makes her explode with a power as deadly as it is forbidden. Worse yet, the only one who can teach her how to hide it from the Good Council is Coen Steeler, a much-too-handsome fifth-year who can manipulate minds as easily as he breathes. He alone understands Rayna's forbidden power...because he has the same one.

With their secret in each other's hands, Rayna soon uncovers other dark secrets that threaten the very foundation of the island itself. And the worst of them? If the Good Council finds out what lurks in her and Coen's blood, they'll both face a fate beyond obedience—and a punishment worse than death.

My Thoughts

I will start by saying I was granted an advanced listener copy of this works audio format via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The narration was excellent and did alot to bring the world of the story and its characters to life. I was never in any doubt as to who was speaking which is wonderful.

I was drawn to this book by the very pretty cover of a young girl dressed in a light purple dress sat on a vine and surrounded by other vines that burst with beautiful wildflowers, mushrooms and wildlife.

It served to draw me in and the blurb hooked me . I needed meet Rayna and know her story. Why on an island full of magic users was she so weary of becomming one ?

The story is a stunning piece of fantasy world building and story telling beautifully woven together.

The characters each have strenghts and flaws that make them feel real and well thought out and its easy for a reader to find something to idenifiy with in at least one of them.

If i had to say what to expect from the story i would say it was a mix of a Heros journey and a comming of Age story.

I look forward to hearing what happens next!

42. The Witch Collector ( Witch Walker #1)
By Charissa Weaks
Meg Sylvan(Narrator), Tim Campbell (Narrator)

Blurb

Every harvest moon, the Witch Collector rides into our valley and leads one of us to the home of the immortal Frost King, to remain forever.

Today is that day—Collecting Day.

But he will not come for me. I, Raina Bloodgood, have lived in this village for twenty-four years, and for all that time he has passed me by.

His mistake.

Raina Bloodgood has one desire: kill the Frost King and the Witch Collector who stole her sister. On Collecting Day, she means to exact murderous revenge, but a more sinister threat sets fire to her world. Rising from the ashes is the Collector, Alexus Thibault, the man she vowed to slay and the only person who can help save her sister.

Thrust into an age-old story of ice, fire, and ancient gods, Raina must abandon vengeance and aid the Witch Collector or let their empire—and her sister—fall into enemy hands. But the lines between good and evil blur, and Raina has more to lose than she imagined. What is she to do when the Witch Collector is no longer the villain who stole her sister, but the hero who's stealing her heart?

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this works audio book and the narration is brilliant and does an excellent job of bringing the story and its characters to life. I was never once confused as to who was talking or who i was listening too.

The magic system is wonderful and brand new. Depending on the type of magic you are born with you have witch marks of varying colors and they change and become more elaborate as you grow. This is new to me and I hadn't seen magic represented in that way before.

Also Raina as a main character is mute and speaks in sign language . I hadn't seen that before in a main character so that was amazing. As we 1st meet her she thinks she isnt very powerful having no witch marks at all. Her only goal is to reclaim her sister and be free. When her village is attacked on collection day and her mother is killed her magic is revealed.

The Witch Collector is the servant of the king and each year he rides out to the villages searching for powerful mages to take back to Winterhold to train to serve and protect the King.

Their world collides when an invading force arrives and starts to kill and burn and loot. Raina has no choice but to go with her sworn enemy in hopes of seeing her sister and finding safety. The Journey is long and dark and filled with peril.

Amazing world building, wonderfully complex characters , ancient gods and a battle to save the world from evil what more could you ask for.

You have been busy reading!

43. A Trial of Fate (Valdor #1)
J.E. Larson

Blurb

Our world is dying.

Skylar Cathal is a twenty-two-year-old half-human, half-shifter with a curious mind and knack for bending the rules. Gilen Warrick, Skylar’s childhood friend and the next Alpha of the Solace pack, wants more than just her friendship– but fate has a will of its own.

When Skylar is marked as the shifter champion, she must overcome her darkest fears to leave her home and those she loves behind. Daxton Aegaeon, High Fae Prince of Silver Meadows, has sworn to protect Skylar as his ward, but only she can protect her heart.

My Thoughts

I was granted an advanced listener copy of this works audio book from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The narration is excellent and really brings the story and characters to life.

In this story we meet Skylar Cathal 22 year old orphened half-human, half-shifter with healing magicks. She is comfortable and happy with her life. She has her friends, a place among the pack, the connection with her animal. But at times she finds herself longing for something more.

And when Gilen Warrick makes it known that he wants her as a mate because he believes her magicks will make the pack strong. Feeling hurt and knowing that this isn't her place she rejects him. Next thing she knows she is answering the call to protect the packlands.

in doing her duty she nearly kills The High Fae Prince of Silver Meadows. She learns later at the pack gathering that he, his brother and their Queen are here to find a shifter who hasnt had their first shift to take part in a series of tirals to unlock the heart of Valdor and stop the land from dying.

when her cousin is almost chosen she steps in and claims the champions mark in her place.

And in doing so she claims her fate as her own and the adventure begins.

44.Dragons, Heists and Other Retirement Plans
(Hornsboggle & Dodge #1)
by Meg Pennerson

Blurb

A spellbinding cozy fantasy adventure that will make you believe in second chances. Complete with dragons. And cats. And dragon-cats.

Katherine and Imogene are done with their criminal past—honestly.

They’ve traded in their outlaw lifestyle for seaside views, knitting projects (strictly non-magical), and only the occasional pub brawl (entirely accidental). But when an old friend begs them for help, they're back in the game.

Their last heist—the one they botched all those years ago—needs finishing. And fast.

Saint Percival’s is in danger. The convent is sinking into the ground, and the dragons and nuns have been swindled out of their land by a ruthless real estate mogul. It's up to Katherine and Imogene to set things right, armed with enchanted needles and the power to knit a magical map straight to the villain’s lair.

The mission? To go back to where it all ended, outwit their enemy and save Saint Percival’s.

Except this time, they have the help of their beloved otherworldly cats and dragons. And the same charming rival who blew up their plans the first time round with just a wink…

What could possibly go wrong?

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this works audio book from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest reiview.

The Narration is wonderfully done and really brings the characters and the world of the story to life. The listener is never in doubt as to which character is speaking.

The story opens we find Katherine and Imogene getting ready to trade in their life of adventure and travel after one last heist. They never expected it to go so disastrously wrong and end up running for their lives.

that was 40 years ago and they never thought that a trip to the pub would result in them returning to the site of their failed heist. Saint Percivals Convent is in danger after a crooked businessman coned them out of money and land. They have decided the time has come to right the wrongs of that long ago botched heist they never thought they would come face to face with the man who caused their carefully crafted plan implode.Let alone that he would join them in their new plan to save the Convent.

With time running out and limited options they step up and take action.

This story is a wonderful adventure that reminds us that while we all age with time we can be useful. It pokes gentle fun at getting old.

this read is perfect for fans of Travis Baldree and Terry Pratchett's ageing barbarian Cohen . I loved it characters, talking cats and amazing dragons. I look forward to seeing where Katherine and Imogene's adventures take them next.

>70 RuneFirestar: This is on my TBR pile! Glad to see you give it a good review.

45. In Case I Go Missing: A small town YA thriller, full of twists to keep you guessing
R.N. Swann

Blurb

Fenny has been the Watson to Sarah's Sherlock for as long as she can remember, ever since the two of them solved the mystery of the stolen library books back in elementary school. Over the years, Sarah has ruffled a few feathers in their small town as an amateur detective and vigilante.

Now, she's disappeared. The police have written her off as a runaway - but when Fenny discovers the binder Sarah left behind with a disturbing title, In Case I Go Missing, she knows there's foul play. When she disappeared, Sarah was secretly investigating her biggest mystery yet, one so explosive it had the power to shake the town to its very foundations.

So Fenny picks up the case, following a trail of clues leading back to the dark, secret past of her home. How far did her suspects go to keep the truth buried?

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this works audio book from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The narration is very well done and brings the story and its characters to life. I was never uncertain as to which character was speaking or anything and is perfect to listen to while you read along with the book.

This book starts out telling you that this is not a happy story that it is not going to have a happy ending. You go in knowing that you will find a dead body.

Fenny , Sarah and Sam have been a team since they were in grade school. The three of them were always together and were the best of friends. Until Sarah started pulling away, not showing up to important events, skipping out on school projects and giving half hearted lame excuses.

Well Fenny was done. That was until she found out that Sarah was missing. Sarah had sometimes gone missing for a day or two but she always turned up. But they learn that Sarah had been missing for three whole days. Fenny is certain that she and Sam can find Sarah. This leads them on a treasure hunt that ultimately blows a town history wide open and reveals blood and bones buried beneath the town and the corruption to keep it secret.

Perfect for Fans of a Reappearance of Rachel Prince, or a Good Girls Guide to Murder. It will keep you guessing and keep you up long after dark.

46. Rich Girl: A Country Club Murder Novella
( The Country Club Murders #20.5 )
Julie Mulhern

Blurb

One secret. Two decades. And a body on the patio.

A whirlwind marriage to a French count who wanted her father's money more than he ever wanted her? It's a secret Libba has kept for twenty years.

She's never told anyone. Not even Ellison.

But secrets can be deadly — and this one is revealed with a knife in his side on Ellison's back patio.

Ghislain de Fevre is dead. Quite obviously murdered. And the police think Libba might have killed him.

The truth is tangled in two decades of lies, heartbreak, and unsigned divorce papers.

To clear her name, Libba will have to do something she's assiduously avoided — face the worst mistake of her life.

Fortunately, she has Ellison, a sharp lawyer, and a pitcher of martinis. Unfortunately, the killer isn't finished.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this book from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

As always with audio books I start my review with the Narration quality. It was okay but at times i did have to re- listen because i wasn't sure who was talking. It only happened a few times and it wasn't enough to break the enjoyment of the story but it did mean i spent a bit longer with the read.

Its a very quick fast paced story very enjoyable . A good read for a lazy Saturday or Sunday afternoon.

47. Murder with a Side of Shrimp and Grits: The Honeybee Diner Mysteries, Book 1
by Skylar Warren, Megan Gage(Narrator)

Blurb

Welcome to Honeybee’s diner, where the scent of butter and garlic wraps itself around you, thick and comforting. Jessie Haynes’ homestyle cooking feeds the hearts and souls of the good people of Willow Bluff. Until someone puts murder on the menu!

Y’all are invited to dig into a steamin’ plate of meatloaf. The diner’s well-worn red chairs have cradled folks from every corner of Willow Bluff—Jessie’s podcasting bestie, Tee, Old Mr Higgins, two mighty mischievous kittens, Biscuits and Gravy, and every tattling townsperson in between—so when the mayor turns blue after a bite of Jessie’s famous shrimp and grits, she finds herself in seriously hot water…

Suddenly, all eyes are swivelled toward Jessie. For fifty years her family has fed Willow Bluff, and Jessie won’t let one mouthful shatter the legacy of her grandmother’s secret recipes. The mayor’s peanut allergy was the talk of the town, so when traces are found in his food, Jessie must fight to clear her name.

An empty peanut packet in the diner’s pantry has Jessie and Tee hot on the heels of the murderer when another case of food tampering occurs at a nearby bakery. Someone is dishing out delicious death sentences—but how many locals will get served before Jessie can crack the case? Her investigation must be a recipe for success or Honeybee’s will be toast…

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this book From NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The Narration is excellent and really brings the story and its characters to life.

I really loved the setting and getting to hear all about the Haynes family ladies and the dinner they run. Jessie and the other characters we meet are very southern , very human and easy for the reader to find something of themselves in. Its mystery with a slice of life mixed in which is fun and keeps things moving forward.

However for the first 20 chapters or so the over flowery descriptions , odd phrases that are stated and then almost immediately re-explained like the reader is simple gets old very fast. It makes the story feel like it might have been fed through chat gpt or that the author had a word count and did not go back and edit as they should have.

So though the story is interesting and I needed to know who did it I almost ended up marking this one as did not finish which I don't normally do. This read certainly has left me with mixed feelings.

48. Startup Hell by Caitlin Rozakis
Megan Tusing(Narrator)
(Not yet published Expected 19 May 26)

Blurb

Morgan Blackwater's mother is a kickass, world-saving, demon-slaying Shadow Council wizard. As for Morgan? Morgan's a junior salesperson at a tech startup. But with magic dyslexia and a disinclination to kick ass, Morgan is doing her best carving out a niche for herself in the mundane world.

Leaving work late one night, she discovers her boss dead from the effort of summoning a demon to trade his soul in order to make his quarterly target. The disturbingly-attractive demon, Lucareoth (Luke for short), is trapped here until he finds someone to sell their soul. While trying to sneak Luke out of the building, Morgan runs into her infamous mother. Apparently, someone has been summoning demons and she's here to get to the bottom of it.

Trying to protect Luke from her mother, Morgan gets sucked into the Infernal Plane and discovers hell really is a corporate nightmare. She only gets back home with a promise to deliver a human soul of her own. While her coworkers are really annoying, she's not willing to sacrifice their souls. The company's tech bro CEO is another story.

My thoughts

I was provided with an advanced listener copy of this work via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The Narration for this audio book is excellent . It really brings the story and the characters to life. There is never any confusion as to what character is speaking.

Morgan Blackwater should have been a mage and should have followed in the footsteps of her illustrious mother a kickass, world-saving Shadow Council Wizard. That would have been amazing she would have settled for being able to commune with the dead and being a magic librarian of sorts that also would have been acceptable. It should have been her life Going to the prestigious Pendragon School of Magic and taking her place in the magical world.

Instead Morgan ended up with magic dyslexia and no power at all. So she attended a normal mundane school and went to college and university and ended up trying to carve out a life for herself in the everyday world.
Sadly instead of finding something fulfilling she ended up as a jr sometimes sales, sometimes marketing person at a random tech start up company that couldn't even afford its own offices.
But at Least she can make her loan payments, cover her half of rent and even afford fancy ice cream now and again so life can't be too bad can it?

What she didn't expect was to find her boss dead after attempting to summon a demon. After breaking the circle she decides that she needs to find a way to send send the demon back before anyone finds out. How hard can it be?

She should have known that it wasn't going to be that easy and the adventure really begins.

The is fun and quirky . It has alot of heart and some brilliant laugh out loud moments.

49. A Trial of the Heart (Valdor #2)
J.E. Larson

Blurb

The trials begin. Skylar arrives in the Inner Kingdom, but the danger of the trials is only half the battle she will have to face. The courts of the High Fae are as treacherous as they are mysterious to a foreign outsider. Skylar will have to navigate obstacles in the trials, along with the politics and mind games of the other fae creatures living in the Inner Kingdom.

The ever-watchful Daxton never wavers from his promise to protect Skylar with all he is, alongside his cunning brother Castor and new allies.

As the trial of the mind approaches, Skylar readies herself to accomplish what no other shifter has yet to achieve. Will she overcome the odds and succeed in the first trial? Will she be able to unlock the secrets of what lies hidden in the labyrinth and continue to the trial of the body?

Only her heart can guide her to victory.

This is the second book of the Valdor series following our Spitfire heroine as she begins the deadly trials to save her world. It is a fantasy romance story that will appeal to fans of character-driven adventurous romance tales such as A Court of Thorns and Roses, From Blood and Ash, and A Ruin of Roses.

>75 RuneFirestar: I am really looking forward to this one! I loved both Caitlyn Rozakis' other books.

>77 Sakerfalcon: it was a super fun read and there were more than a few times when it made me laugh out loud

50.A Trial of Two Worlds (Valdor #3)
J.E. Larson

Blurb

Two worlds tied together by one fate.
Only one trial remains. Skylar returns to Solace to challenge the current alpha and claim the final key to the Heart of Valdor. However, tensions between humans and shifters run high, and home is no longer the safe haven she remembers. To succeed, Skylar must trust her heart and summon her inner strength.
Daxton is once again Queen Minaeve’s captive, haunted by visions, the past, and the fear of losing Skylar forever. His only hope lies in her success. But time is running out, and the Silver Shadow’s plan is as bold as it is deadly.
Will they escape the fallout of what’s to come, or be consumed by it?
The Heart of Valdor will ask for what was given before.
Be ready. Be willing.

51. The River She Became (River & Salt #1)
Emily Varga

Not yet published Expected 2 Jul 26

Blurb

A high stakes, action-packed romantic fantasy featuring a relic-hunter searching for an ancient Fae object to restore the magic to her world - and the cold-eyed Fae captain seeking the same . . .
I’m going across the River. And I’m going to save us all.
Yaseema is a brilliant scholar and loyal servant of the Empire — or so they think. By day, she catalogs the fae relics of her conquered kingdom. But by night, she reclaims the artefacts in secret, trying to restore magic to her dying land.
When she finds the long lost key to cross the River into the fae world, a ruthless realm awaits her there, ruled by monsters wearing beautiful skin. Even the cold-eyed captain who sees through her lies isn’t what he seems, and he is seeking the same lost relic as the crown of an ancient Fae Queen.
To survive, they must work together to outwit ancient curses, battle creatures born of nightmares, and find a power that could resurrect their worlds. But as secrets unravel and loyalties blur, they face the greatest danger of losing their heart to each other.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this work free of charge via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The Narration is excellent and really brings the characters and the world of the story to life for the listener. I never had any issues with telling which character was speaking at any given time.

The Story opens and we find ourselves in the Land of Estola, a land dying as its fae artifacts are dug up and stolen away in the name of and Empress who doesn't seem to care that her newly conquered people are dying due to famine . Yaseema is a Scholar and plays the part of the loyal servant and citizen of the Empire by day but by Night she secretly studies ancient maps and reclaims relics and wonders returning them to the land in hopes to keep the life magic they hold for her people.

She seeks away to cross the river and bring down the barrier between the fae world and her homelands in hopes that with the rejoining her world will once again flourish. What she doesn't expect is that Just as the human lands are suffering so are the fae under the brutal rule of the salt court.

This book weaves a tale of magic, Fae and history that is amazingly breath taking and wondrous from start to finish. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book. There's much to say and yet to say any more would be to give the story away and I just can't bring myself to do that.

52. The Book Club Murders (Book Club Murders #1)
Maggie Allswell

Blurb

What Judy’s book club doesn’t know about murder mysteries isn’t worth writing about. Nothing beats cracking a fictional case over some wine and salt and vinegar crisps. But can they put their puzzle-solving skills to the test when the local librarian dies in a real-life murder?

For widower Judy, her murder book club is the highlight of the she gets to hear all the local gossip and even discuss a good fictitious poisoning or two. But when local librarian Wendy disappears, Judy follows in the footsteps of her fictional detective heroes only to find her dead in her home, clasping a copy of Romeo and Juliet…

The police rule it a tragic accident, but Judy knows that her friend hated Shakespeare, and suspects foul play. Gathering her fellow book lovers together, soon they discover that several townspeople had motive to want Wendy dead. Was it Nigel from the tavern, who may have been Wendy’s secret boyfriend? Or could it be Bryan, the local bookshop owner, tangled in a bitter rivalry with the library?

The plot thickens at a charity murder mystery night held at Nigel’s tavern. Suddenly more murders come to light, both real and very badly staged. And when Nigel makes an astonishing revelation, the book club agree it’s a plot twist no-one saw coming. Can Judy and her book club solve the mystery before they too fall victim to a killer plot?

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.
The Narration of the book was excellent, each character had their own manner of speaking and accent so there was never any confusion as to who I was listening too.

The Cereal Killers book group are convinced that what they don't know about murder isn't worth knowing. Nothing beats reading about a killer and their blood soaked crimes and seeing if they can beat the fictional detectives to finish line and solve the crime. They are certain their problem solving and puzzle -solving skills are second to none.

But when their local librarian is found dead in her home of apparent suicide it doesn't make sense. Judy starts to wonder if there is something more sinster at work. convinced that the police are wrong she convinces her friends that they need to put their skills to work . They can't bring Wendy back but they are certain that they can get her the justice she deserves.

The book is a wonderful read with slices of life mixed in with the murder . The characters are fun and quirky , the setting is engaging and fun. A perfect read for a lazy afternoon.

53. Labyrinthine (Thrones of the Forsaken #1 )
by C.J. Holmes ,Paige Reisenfeld (Narrator)

Blurb

Every generation, the gods take their due. This time, they might take her.

Princess Azhara was born cursed. Marked by ancient magic. Promised to an unholy bargain sealed in blood. When the Reaping begins, suitors will descend into the labyrinth beneath the palace—each one fighting to win her hand or die trying.

She's never had a choice. Not in the Reaping. Not in her future. Not even in the power buried beneath her skin.

Until now.

The golden prince arrives with charm too slick to trust and eyes that gleam with secrets. Her quiet guardian—once her only constant—has begun to keep dangerous truths from her. And as the labyrinth trials unfold, Azhara realizes the maze isn't her only trap.

It's the men. One lies. One loves. One kills. And she's not sure which is which.

As suitors fall and secrets surface, Azhara must choose what's worth saving—her kingdom, her heart, or herself.

My Thoughts

I was granted an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley in return for an honest review. The Narration is excellently done and brings the world of the story and its characters to life for the listener. There is no confusion as to who is talking or what is happening.

Every generation the neighbouring kingdom sends their tributes . They come to face the Reaping and with hope they will be the ones to survive that they will when the Hand of the Princess Azhara and the magic sealed in blood and locked in her bones.

Two men want her. Which ones will be the one to claim her?

It sounds like it should be an amazing story A rescued Princess, magic, a dark pact with the gods sealed in blood, a throne waiting to be claimed from a wicked King. An epic tale.

Sadly I just don't know how to feel. Azhara is aware of the darkness and magic caged within herself. She hates the Reaping , the deaths and yet she never ever questions. Never goes looking for any answers she just allows her father to tell her what her truth is, and she never demands answers from Captain of Guard who acts as her closest guard and protector.

She lets the golden Larksbind Prince give her another version of the truth and yet again she still doesn't question, never acts for herself to see who is lying or who is telling the truth or what version of the truth is real. She spends most of her story dressed at her fathers command playing at being trained to fight and mainly being abused and humiliated and told that everything bad that happens is her fault.

And then she picks the Captain of her fathers guard who has all but told her that he is her Fathers man. She knows that he has lied to her and still she picks him.

the whole thing has left me uncertain as to how to feel about anything and has left a sour taste in my mouth.
I doubt I will be continuing with the series.

54.Witch Hat Atelier: Grimoire Edition 1
by Kamome Shirahama

Blurb

This deluxe, keepsake-quality hardcover edition includes three volumes of the acclaimed fantasy manga on which the enchanting anime was based. Experience the beautiful tale of a young witch who discovers her creativity and faces down a dangerous and thrilling world with her friends by her side in these extra-large books, printed on premium paper with intricate gold foil covers and exclusive bonus content.

Includes Witch Hat Atelier Vols. 1–3.

In a world where everyone takes wonders like magic spells and dragons for granted, Coco is a girl with a simple dream: She wants to be a witch. But everybody knows magicians are born, not made, and Coco was not born with a gift for magic. Resigned to her un-magical life, Coco is about to give up on her dream...until the day she meets Qifrey, a mysterious, traveling magician. After secretly seeing Qifrey perform magic in a way she's never seen before, Coco soon learns what everybody "knows" might not be the truth, and discovers that her magical dream may not be as far away as it may seem!

The new Grimoire Edition is a gold-foiled hardcover of nearly 600 pages each, including color pages and bonus content and presenting this magical epic in a special large size.

55. Starside ( Starside #1)
by Alex Aster

Blurb

Enter the world of Starside , where swords wield magic and power is not inherited...but claimed.

Hundreds of years ago, a brutal war split a land in two. Starside is the realm of magic and immortals—the descendants of the gods, living in a power-rich paradise. Stormside is where mortals fight for scraps of that magic.

Every fifty years, the gates between them open, and fifty challengers are allowed to journey across Starside on a deadly quest to access a pool of magic that can heal, grant wealth, or extend life. Everyone has their reasons for entering, but Aris has only vengeance. As a child, a goddess set fire to her village, killing her family. Aris isn’t after the gods’ magic—she’s going to kill them.

First, she must survive the Culling, the king’s deadly competition to choose his fifty challengers. An orphaned blacksmith’s apprentice, Aris doesn’t have the superior weapons of the heirs from the Great Houses. But the greatest swords—ones that contain power—are not inherited or bought, they are claimed, by both sides. And when Aris claims a great sword, it makes her not just a real competitor—but a target.

Getting past the gates is only the beginning. Starside is deadlier than it seems. If the ancient creatures, magic-wielding beasts, and bloodthirsty immortals weren’t dangerous enough, a new peril has even immortals fearing what rises from the ground at night. With a blade most would kill to claim, Aris can’t trust anyone. Especially not Harlan Raker, the merciless and mysterious king’s guard who betrayed her years ago—and who may now be the key to her survival.

But Aris is hiding a secret tied to her family’s death. And when it’s revealed, not even the gods will be able to stop what’s coming…

My thoughts

Wow my head is spinning and I am left not knowing what to think. This story is an epic and a true hero's journey but its also blood thirsty as you like. This story feels old with blood, bones and ash woven into its foundation the telling is not for the faint hearted or someone looking for a light read.

Go in knowing that not everyone you meet will make it out alive.

56. The Last Book Club
Joanne Rock

Blurb

A book club’s murder mystery game goes fatally wrong in this page-turning mystery, perfect for fans of The Block Party.

Making friends in a new town can be murder, so when Jordyn is invited to attend a book club meeting in her new Saratoga Springs neighborhood, it’s safe to say she’s excited. But she has no intention of making friends with the tight-knit group—she has plans for revenge.

Jordyn’s foster sister was a member of the book club until she was killed in a hit and run after a meeting one year prior. Members of the book club had serious motives and Jordyn is determined to read between the lines and find their secrets…and her sister’s killer.

When the book club hosts a murder mystery party, secrets begin bubbling to the surface–and the murder part of the game becomes stranger than fiction.

This bookish mystery will thrill readers looking for stories full of twists, turns, and tantalizing secrets.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review. The Narration for the story is excellent and really brings its characters and the world to life for the listener. There is never any confusion as to who which character is speaking.

The Town of Saratoga is full of history about horses and horse racing. That means it also is home to those with money. They live in big houses, drive fancy cars and have plenty of money, they also play at being friends. This is the world that Tara Hughs lived in and worked in. Its also where she died in a hit and run accident on Halloween Night. A hit and Run that has turned into a cold case.

Jordyn is Tara's foster sister and is determined to find out what happened and get justice. She is certain that the the cops gave up because they were paid off. Join the mystery and find out what really goes on at book club!

The book is fast paced and switches between what Jordyn is learning as she lives in the town of Saratoga and what was going on in Tara's life leading up to her brutal murder. Normally would find flicking back and forth really difficult to deal with but this is very well done with this particular story.

there is so much going on that I was never certain as to who the killer was. The person I was certain would be guility was not. This is a perfect read for the spooky season season :)

57. What Comes of Attending the Commoners Ball
Elisabeth Aimee Brown

Blurb

Hester Flanders went to the ball for the food. She didn’t expect a prince to follow her home.

If there’s one rule Hester learned during her country upbringing, it’s never accept a gift; that’s how the Folk get you. Although she’s left her farm behind, she can’t leave her superstitions, even if no one else in the capital city seems to care. Hardworking but hungry, she’s looking for loopholes, and the king’s annual Commoners Ball seems like the perfect way to get a free meal that’s not technically a gift—and it would have been, too, except a pesky prince took a shine to her.

Inglebert Lucas Chesingwick isn’t just the crown prince; he’s also practical, responsible, and very annoyed to see his younger brother causing a scene by flirting with a peasant at the ball. He can separate them for one night, but his mischievous brother is determined to see the poor girl again. And again. And for some reason, Lucas keeps running into her, too. If only there was some way he could help her.

The princes might mean well, but Hester knows better than to accept favors from anyone, even royalty—even if it’s cheese—and even if saying no breaks her heart. After all, just because the Folk have never been seen in the city doesn’t mean they’re not around.

My Thoughts

I was provided with an advanced listener copy of this work via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review. The Narration quality was excellent and I loved how it brought the story and its characters to life. There was never a time when I was confused or uncertain as to who was speaking.

Hester is a wonderful character strong willed and hard working young woman. She is always aware of the values of her home village and the things she was taught as she grew up. She sticks to them even if they make life uncomfortable for her.

She is certain that no harm will come of attending the commoners ball and at least if she goes she will get to eat an excellent meal. That's the entire plan. She never expects to end up meeting both crown princes and complicating her life from that day forward.

This sweet romantic comedy is very well written and very heart warming and cosy as well as being absolutely charming. Once I started listening I could not stop I had to listen to the very end to see how everything turned out.

58. The Foundling House
John A. Hoda

Blurb

A missing child. A deadly trade. A love caught between redemption and ruin.

London, 1889. After surviving Jack the Ripper’s reign of terror, Doctor Henry Jekyll and Francine Murphy dream of a peaceful future together. But their fragile hopes are shattered when Francine’s estranged husband, Seamus, reappears—begging her to help find his sister’s missing baby, stolen from a long-term foster home.

Reluctantly, Jekyll joins Francine in the search, only to discover the dark world of baby farming—where infants are bought, sold, and discarded for profit. As they dig deeper, every clue draws them closer to danger and to each other.

Haunted by guilt and longing, Jekyll must confront the monster within while Francine faces the past she tried to escape. Together, they risk everything to uncover a truth more horrifying than they imagined—and to save a life that could cost them both their hearts.

Blending historical realism with emotional depth, The Foundling House explores love, guilt, and redemption against a backdrop of social injustice and human frailty. Perfect for readers who crave atmospheric storytelling and the haunting pull of characters who wrestle with both darkness and devotion.

My Thoughts

I was provided with an advanced listener copy of this work via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

This book switches viewpoints between Henry and Francine This is very well done and not at all Jarring or off putting. Both narrators have worked really hard to bring this story and its characters to life. However, I feel the lady who reads as Francine does a better job over all at making the voices of each character male and female distinct.

I have never come across the idea of a story that mixes Jack the ripper with that of Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde . That was interesting and new. I really enjoyed that aspect of this read.

The setting is really well described and you as the reader are transported straight into that time period of London's history while listening.

The characters are very human and easy to identify and connect with. The story is super well written and has an energetic pace . Its certainly a read to consider for the run up to the spooky season.

59. Gingerbread, Garlands, & Gunshots (Camper & Criminals #42)
Tonya Kappes

Blurb

Now in development as a Hallmark Channel Original Series , this bestselling series is perfect for fans of feel-good mysteries with a Southern twist. So pull up a camp chair, pour yourself a mason jar of sweet tea, and get ready to solve a mystery—because in Normal, the only thing you can expect... is the unexpected.

Welcome to NORMAL... where nothing is normal!

It’s a not-so-merry Christmas in Normal, Kentucky! When bossy Gingerbread Gala chairwoman Harper Stewart is found strangled with holiday garland, campground owner Mae West and the Laundry Club Ladies swap cocoa for clues. From feuding bakers to a fake fundraiser—and even Mae’s mother-in-law landing on the suspect list—Happy Trails Campground becomes ground zero for one festive whodunit.

Packed with small-town charm, Southern sass, and Christmas chaos, Gingerbread, Garlands, & Gunshots is the perfect cozy mystery for sleuths who like their holidays sweet…with a dash of murder.

My Thoughts

I was provided with an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

I was drawn to the cute cover art the double wide rv in red and white decorated with garlands and Christmas wreathes, a snow man and a gingerbread man . It was a perfect story book cover. The title was also interesting and attention grabbing. I had to know what the story was behind the cute, sweet looking cover art.

I normally don't pick up books that are mid series as they have a tendency to reference events that happened previously but this didn't seem to do that I consider that a plus . The narration is excellent and really does bring the story and its characters to life. There is never any confusion as to which character is speaking at any given time.

The story is cute and fun and keeps a decent pace. Its brilliantly written and I never guessed who the murderer was the entire time that i was reading. This is a brilliant read in the run up to the festive season. I really enjoyed it.

60. The Frost Witch (The Covenants of Velora #1)
Emberly Ash

Blurb

Witches are not born. They are made.

I died alone in a frostbitten forest. It was not heroic. I did not die defending an innocent or hunting to feed my loved ones. I died because I was stupid and cowardly. I died running away. And that would have been the end of my story. Until the witches found me and made me one of their own.

Outcast by her coven more than three hundred years after her resurrection, Koryn faces certain doom. Without her coven’s magic to sustain her, she will wither away to nothing. But earning back their trust means betraying the last living member of her family—the family whose downfall came at Koryn’s own hands.

Offered a bargain she cannot refuse…

Four hundred years ago, the gods sentenced the continent of Velora to death. Now Koryn must make a desperate final bid to save Velora—and herself—by passing each test posed at the Seven Gates. Nothing less will prove her worth to her coven or save her family.

To make matters worse, she finds herself bound against her will to Garrick the Red, a legendary bounty hunter with a secret that makes him not just her rival, but her bitter enemy. She does not need him to protect her—Koryn stands alone.

But when an adolescent dragon appears from the forest and declares herself Koryn’s familiar, her understanding of the world begins to shift. Koryn’s choices do not just affect her, but all the residents of a dying, desperate land.

Faced with a devastating choice…

For every gate she conquers, Koryn’s world grows more precarious. A deadly warrior turned bonded protector and forbidden lover. An adolescent dragon entrusted to her care. A powerful male from her past calling in a debt she is not ready to pay. And vengeful gods who demand their due, and force the frost witch to choose—her coven, her love, her dragon… or her soul.

My thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley, free of charge in return for an honest review. The narrator really worked hard to bring the world and its characters to life . There were points where i did have to go back and re-listen because i felt like i had missed something but it didn't happen every often and it didn't pull me out of the story to have to go back.

Velora was a land of plenty until the fae got greedy and tried to set themselves even above the Gods. Gods that did not just punish the Fae, no that was not enough for them, they punished Velora with a curse that at first didn't seem real until slowly everything started to go wrong and the land , sea and even the magic started to wither and die. But just as the Gods punished with a curse they gave a way to break it. All anyone had to do was to pass the tests of the seven Gates , one for each of the seven Gods, and the curse would be broken and the land restored.

Koryn was a mortal woman who died in alone in the frost, ice and snows of deep winter. She was brought back as a Witch. But she could not let go of her mortal life, of the mortal family she had once been apart of and it cost her everything.

Now she must face the gates and should she win she will regain her place among her sisters and with her coven once more.

The story flicks back and forth between the present , and times from Koryn's past, and it does so in a way that doesn't break immersion in the story it just adds to the story and makes Koryn feel more real to reader.
I love the way the relationship between her and Garrick grows and changes . Her interactions with her familiar are fun and brilliantly done.

The whole story from start to finish is a well written , magical thing and I loved every moment from start to finish. I look forward to the next book.

>89 RuneFirestar: Sounds like a fun read! I am glad you enjoyed :)

>90 Alexandra_book_life: it was a very well done read and i really enjoyed getting to see how the characters grew and changed as the story progressed.

61. The Silversmith ( The Selvaren #1 )
L.J. Claren, Savannah Thomas (Narrator),Aiden Snow(Narrator)

Blurb

A royal secret. A dangerous power. And a love that may conquer all—or destroy everything.

Still reeling from the deaths of her father and brother, Ary Gold survives only by sheer will in the icy wilds of the North. But when friends arrive with stories of long-lost magic and a power buried in her newly discovered royal blood, Ary is thrust into a fate far larger than her sorrow.

The realm of Nyrida is under threat. An ancient shadow wielder has risen, determined to claim Ary's power and plunge the world into corrupted darkness. To stop him, Ary must marry the commander she's been promised to—a man whose army could help them win the war—and train to fight alongside him.

But her fiercest challenge may not be on the battlefield.

Assigned to shape her into a warrior is a man cloaked in violence and secrets. Cold, commanding, and maddeningly unreadable, he isn't her betrothed . . . but he may be her undoing. As sparks fly and loyalties are tested, Ary must decide whether to follow the path laid out for her—or risk everything for a love as wild and dangerous as the power awakening inside her.

My Thoughts

I was granted and advanced listener copy of this work via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review of the book.

The Narration was very well done and really brought its story and the characters to life. There was never a time when I was uncertain as to who was speaking or which character I was listening to .

When The story opens we meet Ary Gold she has been left alone by her mother and has taken her last coins to market to see what she can buy. She returns home with nothing and a growing uncertainty about what she should do next.

Then the story really begins. At its heart the story is high fantasy coming of age and a defining of self. It has moments that are amazingly playful and fun and others are dark . Its fantastic read and so much fun. I loved it.

62. The Black Company ( The Chronicles of the Black Company #1)
Glen Cook, Marc Vietor (Narrator)

Blurb

Before Grimdark had a name, there was The Black Company... Glen Cook's legendary series that redefined a genre. told through the eyes of common soldiers as they march through a world of sorcery, shifting loyalties, and hard choices.

Take the coin. Do the job. Live long enough to see the consequences.

For centuries, the Black Company has sold its swords to the highest bidder. Jaded and bound by ancient tradition, they are mercenaries with no homeland, no ideals, and no illusions left. They fight where they’re told, bleed when they must, and bury whoever doesn’t make it to dawn.

But even Croaker, the Company’s physician and keeper of its annals, isn’t prepared for their newest employer: the Lady, an immortal sorceress risen from centuries of imprisonment.

The Company doesn’t usually trouble itself with prophecies, shining heroes, or tidy notions of ‘good’ and ‘evil’. But when rumours spread of a figure called the White Rose, destined to lead the resistance against the Lady’s reign, uncomfortable questions begin to surface...

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this work Via NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.
As with all audio i will start my review with the narration. The Narration when it comes to telling the reader about the world is brilliant and when Croaker is just talking its fine. At other times especially during the battle sceans it does become a bit difficult to tell what character is talking and who they are talking to too. I had to re-listen to this story several times because i became confused as to what i had heard.

I went in knowing that Black Company was a band of Mercenaries and that they would work for whoever had the coin to pay. Other than that I wasn't sure what to expect.

There is a lot of military jargon tossed in that I wasn't sure of and didn't really understand so it lessened my enjoyment of the story slightly because it made it hard to figure out who was meant to be giving orders and such.

It doesn't seem to follow a time line, its all told from Croakers point of view but i was never certain as to how much time had passed between one event to the next and so it became hard to follow.

The idea of the story seemed cool and i am sure someone who enjoyed grim dark or even military based fantasy would have enjoyed this read, sadly that was not me.

>93 RuneFirestar: I am sorry to hear that this wasn't your kind of book, but I know that everyone is not fond of Glen Cook. (I became a fan as soon as I started reading this series.) I hope you will enjoy your next book a lot more :)

>94 Alexandra_book_life: the characters are intresting and the idea of it is intresting. There were moments that made me giggle but on the whole its not for me. I might give him another go

>95 RuneFirestar: If it isn't your style, the rest of the books are mostly the same, though maybe a little more personal.

63. Iron Widow (Iron Widow #1)
Xiran Jay Zhao

Blurb

The boys of Huaxia dream of pairing up with girls to pilot Chrysalises, giant transforming robots that can battle the mecha aliens that lurk beyond the Great Wall. It doesn't matter that the girls often die from the mental strain.

When 18-year-old Zetian offers herself up as a concubine-pilot, it's to assassinate the ace male pilot responsible for her sister's death. But she gets her vengeance in a way nobody expected—she kills him through the psychic link between pilots and emerges from the cockpit unscathed. She is labeled an Iron Widow, a much-feared and much-silenced kind of female pilot who can sacrifice boys to power up Chrysalises instead.​

To tame her unnerving yet invaluable mental strength, she is paired up with Li Shimin, the strongest and most controversial male pilot in Huaxia​. But now that Zetian has had a taste of power, she will not cower so easily. She will miss no opportunity to leverage their combined might and infamy to survive attempt after attempt on her life, until she can figure out exactly why the pilot system works in its misogynist way—and stop more girls from being sacrificed.

My Thoughts

The cover art for this book is stunning the orange and red wings of a giant bird with a girl with a simple hair style in red and gold body suit she stares out at you daring you to pick her story.

Zetian grew up with her big sister and the day her sister went off to the army is burned into her mind. Because shortly there after she was killed and thus her path is set. Fix her uni-brow and enlist then kill the boy pilot responsible for her sisters death.

She doesn't expect what comes next and I don't think I as a reader was ready for it either.
there's a lot of questions that just never seem to get answered.

She swears vengeance on the pilot that killed her sister. The only thing we know was that she was bruised on the one phone call she made home. she claimed it came from walking into a drone. She admitted she was struggling because everything moved so fast.

we never actually confirm that the pilot did what she thinks he did.

Also if girls are sent off to be concubine-pilots and left as tributes for the gods then how are they keeping the population growing?

The ending was a shocker as well and I had an idea of what might happen but I did not expect that. there's alot to unpack with this read. I recommend having the audio book while reading as it helps set the pronuciations of the names and places in your mind.

Over all the story was very well written I just don't know what to think of what I read or how I should feel about it.

>97 RuneFirestar: It was very interesting to read your thoughts! I have heard of this book, but I haven't yet decided whether to read it or not... ;)

>98 Alexandra_book_life: As I was bought book two by a friend I am going to go ahead and listen to it and maybe that will clear up some of the questions and plot holes from book one but after that i think I will be done with the series. The book is often described as Handmaids Tale meets Pacific Rim if that helps at all.

I always encourage myself and others to try new authors you may find as I do that they aren't for you but hey at least you opened yourself up to something new and different.

64. Brooklyn Motto
Alex R. Johnson, Bobby Daniel Rodriguez (Narrator)

Blurb

New York City, 1998. New York is changing around Nico Kelly, and he can feel more coming.

A private investigator and self-proclaimed photographer, Nico is stuck in a loop of city contracts and self loathing. What little middle class there was is disappearing—long-standing factories are moving out and taking their reliable neighborhood jobs with them, and Mayor Rudy Giuliani's police force has the streets in a stranglehold.

Nico spends his days looking for fraudsters while taking photos of municipal employees on disability claims. He spends his nights trying to get rid of the nagging feeling that his day job makes him a professional snitch-traversing dive bars, playing pinball, and fighting through the haze of hungover mornings and blurry evenings.

Pushing thirty years old and feeling split between his American and Latin heritage, between youth and adulthood, Nico finds himself at a precipice—who is he, and what should he become?

When Nico witnesses and records a murder during one of his insurance fraud investigations, bodies start to turn up all around him and he's forced into solving a mystery he didn't ask to solve. Humorous, gritty, and real, Nico's search for what it means to be human takes him through the deepest and darkest parts of New York City.

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener of this works Audio book from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review .

The Narration works really hard to bring the New York City of 1998 to life for the listener. The narrator does try very hard to give each character their own voice and manner of speaking though at times it does drift and its almost like they forget who is speaking. Over all though really good.

In this story we meet Nico Kelly a pi and self- proclaimed photographer. His jobs aren't the grind of chasing cheating spouses or even the exciting world of crime scene photography. No He spends his days and some of his nights working to catch municipal employees who try to claim they are more injured than they are. It makes him feel like a professional snitch, he's not proud of it but hey everyone has to make a living.

One day hes called into his boss's office and told to tail a cop. He especially hates cop jobs, they can be vindictive. But he hates an empty bank account even more so he takes the job. He doesnt expect that to lead to him witness dirty cops killing a cop.

Looking for an easy way out he decides that this is now his bosses problem. He takes his tape and gives it to the boss. The trouble starts when his boss turns up dead in what looks like a suicide set up.

The story is a fast paced mystery and it builds super quick. It has some slice of life moments but not so many they detract from the main action or muddy the waters. All in all a very good read for a lazy summer afternoon or evening.

65. The Enigmatic Madam Ingram: A Novel (Miss Cassidy #2)
Meihan Boey

Blurb

In this exciting sequel to the multi-award-winning novel, The Formidable Miss Cassidy, Letty Ingram, a half-Malayan lady raised in the UK, has suffered under a strange curse her whole life. Her beautiful and fearsome mother, from an unknown island in the Malay Archipelago, is the key to the mystery. Letty arrives in Singapore in 1906 to seek the help of the Chinese medium, Madam Kay. But Madam Kay’s whole family gets involved, including her sister, her father…and their unusual mutual friend, the formidable Miss Cassidy.

Author Meihan Boey illustrates the lengths Letty will go to in order to save her own soul, and reveals how Miss Cassidy's past has caught up with her, in the shape of a worthy opponent: a terrifying jungle spirit the native folk call the Bungadarah.

My Thoughts

I was provided with an advanced listener copy of this work from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review. The Narration for this work is excellent and I am pleased to say that it is the same as the first book so that the characters we are familiar with all sound like they should. The new ones have their own manners of speaking and voices which makes it easy to tell who is talking at any given time.

I was thoroughly pleased to see this book and very excited to see if Miss Cassidy ever got to see and speak with Mr. Kay and his daughters ever again. Getting to know The Lady Letty Ingram was also wonderful.
The story is beautifully done and so well written I loved every moment of this read and can not wait for the next in the series they are enchanting tales.

66.The Clock House Murders
by Yukito Ayatsuji, Jonathan Yen(Narrator)
Ho-Ling Wong - Translator - translator

Blurb

Brilliant detective Shimada Kiyoshi must save a team of paranormal investigators, trapped in an abandoned house, as they are picked off one-by-one!

Rumor has it that the mysterious Clock House—a remote mansion built by notorious architect Nakamura Seiji for a long-dead clock enthusiast—is haunted by the ghost of a young girl, who died there ten years earlier. No one is more intrigued by this than the investigating team from the paranormal magazine CHAOS. They decide to visit the mansion, along with a psychic medium, in an attempt to make contact with the spirit.

The plan is for the group of investigators to spend three days locked in the house, but their stay has barely begun when a gruesome murder is committed. And then the survivors find that they are trapped in the house, with no possibility of escape . . .

Meanwhile, the brilliant detective Shimada Kiyoshi is investigating the enigma of The Clock House from the outside, eager to unravel the mystery of another of Nakamura Seiji's twisted architectural creations.

But as his investigation proceeds, the team inside the house are being slaughtered one-by-one. Will Shimada crack the puzzle of the Clock House before all of them are dead?

My Thoughts

i was given an advanced listener copy of this works from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review.

The Narration is very well done but there are times when all the characters sound the same and it does get slightly hard to follow. My other minior gripe is that all through the story everyone is called my their full names and it gets tiresome.

Especially as the story progresses and we find out that some people have other names. Its a small thing but it makes it difficult to deal with.
The story is long and complicated but soooo worth it. I had a thought as to who the murderer was going to be but as usual I was wrong.

67. Arson at the Art Gallery: A Getaway Bay Mystery, Book 1
Catherine Lee, Pen Larkins (Narrator)

Blurb

Her new life wasn't supposed to begin with a murder...

Widow Addison Lake needs to laugh again. To live again. Moving to Getaway Bay and fixing up the rundown beach house into a bed and breakfast should be just the ticket. But the dream of a fresh start quickly becomes a nightmare when her cousin's art gallery catches fire – and a body is found in the ashes.

The bristly local detective needs an arrest, and Addison must act fast to prove her cousin's innocence. But between the beach house renovations, an ailing uncle, an over-protective daughter and the quirky inhabitants of Getaway Bay, she has her work cut out.

Can Addison and her new friends uncover the real culprit before her cousin is charged with murder?

My Thoughts

I was given an advanced listener copy of this works audio book from NetGalley free of charge in return for an honest review. The Narration is excellent and the narrator really works hard to give each character their own voice so there was never any confusion as to who was speaking.

Addison and her daughter have moved away from Sidney to Getaway Bay. The plan is leave the pain of loosing her husband and the father her daughter very much loved. She wanted a fresh start and what could be better than a small beach side town where she can fix up a run down beach house and into a bed and breakfast.

She's even got her cousin near by for family support. The new life is off to a shining start, but things soon take a turn for the worst when her cousin Layla's art gallery catches fire with her sister Jenna inside. With the cops are certain that her cousin is guilty.

Its up to Addison to figure out who committed the crime and prove her innocent and maybe catch a murderer.

The story is a very cozy mystery read with clues and characters presenting themselves in and around a mother and college bound daughter trying to start over. Its a perfect read for a lazy afternoon with just the right amount of twists to keep you guessing.

An all together fun and sweet read. I look forward to the rest of this series.

>102 RuneFirestar: I liked the first book in this series, The Decagon House Murders. Thank you for this review :)