Review: Our Little Secret by Roz Nay

Goodreads Blurb

Roz Nay’s Our Little Secret is a twisted tale of love, pain, and revenge that will stay with the reader long after they turn the last page.

They say you never forget your first love. What they don’t say though, is that sometimes your first love won’t forget you…

A police interview room is the last place Angela expected to find herself today. It’s been hours, and they keep asking her the same inane questions over and over. “How do you know the victim?” “What’s your relationship with Mr. Parker?” Her ex’s wife has gone missing, and anyone who was close to the couple is a suspect. Angela is tired of the bottomless questions and tired of the cold room that stays the same while a rotating litany of interrogators changes shifts around her. But when criminologist Novak takes over, she can tell he’s not like the others. He’s ready to listen, and she knows he’ll understand. When she tells him that her story begins a decade before, long before Saskia was in the picture, he gives her the floor.

A twenty-something young professional, Angela claims to have no involvement. How could she? It’s been years since she and H.P., Mr. Parker that is, were together. As her story unfolds, it deepens and darkens. There’s a lot to unpack… betrayal, jealousy, and a group of people who all have motives for retribution. If Angela is telling the truth, then who’s lying?

My Review: Rated 4 out of 5 stars

wow, what a beautifully written novel filled with secrets, hurt, jealousy, and revenge. Roz is an amazing storyteller who marvels each characters words while twisting the lie with the truth. I loved how the story is built off from the beginning she met HP and how the plot twisted at the very end. It kept the readers intrigued at this love story that doesn’t always have a happily ever after. Sometimes, the ones you love the most are the ones that hurt you the most. A thriller that will keep you from putting the book down.

Review: Revealing Nicola by Sam Cheever

Goodreads Blurb

What would you do if you discovered you weren’t who you thought you were? And that you were the victim of a secret so big…so important…it would literally change the world? What if you suddenly found yourself running for your life and your only lifeline was a man who’d kidnapped you from a club right in front of your friends?

How could you trust him? Why should you believe in him? Is he really the only thing standing between you and certain death? Or is he simply a tool for the unknown figures manipulating your existence from the shadows?

Sometimes a leap of faith is all you have. And sometimes that leap only plunges you more deeply into chaos.

My Review: Rated 4 out of 5 stars

An amazing thriller filled with family secrets that will change Nicola’s life forever. Plus, there is a hot cop/ bodyguard to die for. Sam created a book in which the reader is grasped from the very beginning of the story. This book will rip into the readers heart since teenagers are being murdered all due to research for a cure. I was shocked that the family secret wasn’t just money or valuables but something that could bring eternal life to others. If you love thrillers with strong women who know how to stand up for themselves, with hot bodyguards and secrets to unveil, then look no further. You will be happily entertained.

Goodreads Author Biography

USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author Sam Cheever writes mystery and suspense, creating stories that draw you in and keep you eagerly turning pages. Known for writing great characters, snappy dialogue, and unique and exhilarating stories, Sam is the award-winning author of 100+ books.

Review: Two Days Gone by Randall Silvis

Goodreads Blurb

What could cause a man, when all the stars of fortune are shining upon him, to suddenly snap and destroy everything he has built? This is the question that haunts Sergeant Ryan DeMarco after the wife and children of beloved college professor and bestselling author Thomas Huston are found slaughtered in their home. Huston himself has disappeared and so is immediately cast as the prime suspect.

DeMarco knows—or thinks he knows—that Huston couldn’t have been capable of murdering his family. But if Huston is innocent, why is he on the run? And does the half-finished manuscript he left behind contain clues to the mystery of his family’s killer?

A masterful new thriller by acclaimed author Randall Silvis, Two Days Gone is a taut, suspenseful story that will break your heart as much as it will haunt your dreams.

My Review: Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Wow, I am speechless. Randall is truly a gifted writer who writes stories that make you struggle with your belief in good people. His writing makes you see, feel, and place yourself in the story. This is the first book I have read from Randall, and I just found another favorite author to read. This story really tore my heart apart. His writing really grasps the reader from the very beginning, making you feel sadness, hope, strength, weakness, and death in the worst ways. Life is precious but can disappear at the blink of an eye. Each word I read leads me to more mystery, secrets, and revelations. I loved both Ryan and Huston as strong-willed characters who are in search of answers and freedom. I truly was captivated by how this story unraveled and set the reader and characters free of the torment. This thriller mixed with poetry and mystery will keep you wanting more. I highly recommend this book.

Goodreads Author Biography

Randall Silvis is the internationally acclaimed author of over a dozen novels, one story
collection, and one book of narrative nonfiction. Also a prize-winning playwright, a
produced screenwriter, and a prolific essayist, he has been published and produced in
virtually every field and genre of creative writing. His numerous essays, articles, poems and short stories have appeared in the Discovery Channel magazines, The Writer, Prism International, Short Story International, Manoa, and numerous other online and print magazines. His work has been translated into 10 languages.

Silvis’s many literary awards include two writing fellowships from the National
Endowment for the Arts, the prestigious Drue Heinz Literature Prize, a Fulbright Senior Scholar Research Award, six fellowships for his fiction, drama, and screenwriting from the Pennsylvania Council On the Arts, and an honorary Doctor of Letters degree awarded for “distinguished literary achievement

Review: Elizabeth and Zenobia by Jessica Miller

Goodreads Blurb

When Elizabeth and her unusual and fearless friend Zenobia arrive at Witheringe House, peculiar things begin to happen.

Especially in the forbidden East Wing.

The flowers and vines of the wallpaper sometimes seem to be alive.

A mirror has a surface like the water of a pond.

And an old book tells a different story after midnight.

Zenobia is thrilled by the strangeness, but Elizabeth is not so bold…

Until she makes a mysterious and terrifying discovery.

My Review: Rated 4 out of 5 stars

It was a fun book filled with ghost hunts and family mystery. Elizabeth has a friend that only she can see, and no one else can. She is strong-willed and not scared of anything. She loves it when there is something spooky to unravel and will stop at nothing while Elizabeth is scared of anything supernatural. The author shares some poetry from Edgar Allan Poe since Zenobia is obsessed with his work. I loved that the author added details of plant names and had plotted her book to include scenes in a plant kingdom. Elizabeth has an imagination that will make this adventure unforgettable.

Book Event With Clare Leslie Hall

I had such an amazing time last night at the author event of Clare Leslie Hall at the Paramus Barnes and Noble. We read Brokwn Country a few months ago for the B&N book club, and it was my favorite book for this year so far. I highly recommend you read this book. Below is my book review.

My Review: Rated 5 out of 5 stars

It is a heartbreaking love story filled with secrets that will shatter the lives of the characters and the readers. Clare Leslie Hall is a fantastic storyteller. She captivated the readers with a story filled with so much love that tragedy was unavoidable. I fell in love with each of the characters. I felt like a member of the family watching every tragedy unfold.

The first page of this story grasped my attention. I wanted to know what exactly happened at this farm and who was murdered. Clare divided the story into five different sections. The story begins with Gabriel, followed by Bobby, Jimmy, Frank, and Grace. It then takes us to the trial, weaving through the past and present-day events. The way she drafted the story made the story unravel at the exact time the author was ready to reveal a secret or a tragedy.

Bobby, Beth’s child, is the central figure in this story. His conception, childhood, and the tragedy that ultimately impacts the Johnson family will lead to a love triangle fraught with disaster, shocking readers. Losing a child is an unimaginable experience for any parent, especially when it involves witnessing such a gruesome death. Despite Beth blaming Frank for Bobby’s death, both of them showed remarkable bravery by continuing their marriage.

The story begins with the intense love affair and subsequent breakup between Beth and Gabriel. After their separation, Beth marries Frank, who has always been in love with her. Together, Beth and Frank have a son named Bobby. Bobby is passionate about the outdoors and learns everything he can about farm life. However, the family faces a tragedy when Bobby’s life is cut short.

Meanwhile, Gabriel marries and has a son named Leo. He becomes a famous author and eventually returns to his childhood home. Despite moving on, Beth and Gabriel still feel the lingering sparks from their past romance, which leads to an affair. As Beth connects with Leo, she finds herself grappling with the loss of Bobby.

As secrets unravel, an intense argument culminates in a murder. I won’t spoil the entire story but prepare to be shocked by who pulls the trigger and to witness the strong bonds of love and family throughout the narrative.

The tree featured on the cover of the book plays a significant role in the story. It is a tree that the Johnson family grew up with, where a wedding proposal took place. Unfortunately, a tragedy occurred with the eventual death of the tree and the precious life of an innocent boy. This intense love triangle, with its many secrets and tragedy, will leave you wanting more.

Goodreads Author Biography

Clare Leslie Hall is a novelist and journalist who lives in the wilds of Dorset, England, with her family. Under the name Clare Empson, she published two domestic noir thrillers, Him and Mine, that were published in the UK and Germany. She has always loved The Go Between by LP Hartley and Broken Country is a nod to it, featuring a forbidden love affair with catastrophic repercussions. Broken Country is her US debut.

Review: The Doctor, His Wife, and The Clock

Goodreads Blurb

There is a murder; a blind physician confesses himself the murderer, and to prove that he could shoot a man through the heart offers to hit a small clock placed at a suitable distance, guided only by the sound it makes in striking. The ending is horrible enough to suit even the boy in German folklore who complained that he could not shudder.

My Review: Rated 4 out of 5 stars

A mystery filled with guilt, love, and anger led to death. I loved that the story was told by the detective who went to the murder scene at the beginning and solved the mystery. True love can lead to horrible tragedies. I was happy to read this book as a first edition novel.

Goodreads Author Biography

Anna Katharine Green (1846-1935) was an American poet and novelist. She was one of the first writers of detective fiction in America and distinguished herself by writing well plotted, legally accurate stories. Born in Brooklyn, New York, her early ambition was to write romantic verse, and she corresponded with Ralph Waldo Emerson. When her poetry failed to gain recognition, she produced her first and best known novel, The Leavenworth Case (1878). She became a bestselling author, eventually publishing about 40 books. She was in some ways a progressive woman for her time-succeeding in a genre dominated by male writers-but she did not approve of many of her feminist contemporaries, and she was opposed to women’s suffrage. Her other works include A Strange Disappearance (1880), The Affair Next Door (1897), The Circular Study (1902), The Filigree Ball (1903), The Millionaire Baby (1905), The House in the Mist (1905), The Woman in the Alcove (1906), The House of the Whispering Pines (1910), Initials Only (1912), and The Mystery of the Hasty Arrow (1917).

Review: Cowboy Christmas Guardian by Dana Mentink

Goodreads Blurb

Someone is dead set on stopping Shelby Arroyo from doing her job: assessing mineral rights in a mine in gold country. But after rancher Barrett Thorn rescues her from an attack, the handsome widowed cowboy seems to feel responsible for her. That is, until he discovers she’s from the family that he’ll never forgive for his wife’s death. As the threats against Shelby escalate, cowboy honor and an unexpected attraction keep Barrett by her side, even at his own risk. And since Shelby won’t back down, Barrett must protect the brave, loyal woman he has no business falling for…a woman someone wants to kill by Christmas.

My Review: Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A story filled with many twists and turns with unexpected surprises. Be prepared to be in harms way with this gold mine filled with heart wreatching dangers. Shelby puts family first even though she is risking her own life. Barrett is a kind-hearted cowboy who is always rescuing a damsel in distress. When a woman never gives up, even though danger is heading her way. You don’t want to miss this wonderful story filled with forgiveness, love, and loyalty.

Goodreads Author Biography

USA TODAY bestseller Dana Mentink enjoys writing in many different capacities. She currently writes for Harlequin’s Love Inspired Suspense and Poisoned Pen Press.

Dana is the recipient of a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, two ACFW Carol Awards as well as a Holt Medallion.

Cover Reveal: Open to Death by Sophie Mattis

BOOK DETAILS:

Open to Death

by Sophie Mattis

(A DI Rena Hunt Mystery, #1)

Publication date: September 16, 2025

Genres: Adult, Mystery, Romance

Synopsis:

In the picturesque town of Rucklesby, peace is shattered when a young woman is found brutally murdered in her home. Detective Inspector Serena “Rena” Hunt is called to the scene, still haunted by her last case and questioning her instincts.

The victim, Sicily Avery—a wife and mother—has been stabbed through the heart with chilling precision. When another woman is killed in the same way, Rena realises a calculated murderer is on the loose, leaving cryptic notes on the victims as part of a twisted agenda.

With the body count rising, Rena and her team race to stop the killer before they strike again. Tensions mount with the arrival of new forensic pathologist Dr. Lucas Mann—bringing both friction and unexpected chemistry—as they work together to outwit a murderer who always seems one step ahead.

Open to Death intricately combines themes of murder, betrayal, and the unyielding quest for justice, all while subtly developing a slow-burn romance.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/240657320-open-to-death

Pre-order: https://amzn.to/48evI6m

AUTHOR BIO:

Sophie Mattis is a British mystery author known for her suspenseful, character-driven stories that keep readers turning pages. Born and raised in the UK, she writes contemporary mysteries featuring complex investigators, layered intrigue, touches of romance, and flashes of humour. When she’s not plotting her next twist, Sophie enjoys travelling, cycling, and curling up with a good crime drama.

Follow her on her socials at: @sophiemattisbooks

Author links:

https://sophiemattisbooks.com/

https://www.facebook.com/sophiemattisbooks

https://www.instagram.com/sophiemattisbooks/

@sophiemattisbooks

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/54971010.Sophie_Mattis

Review: The Curse by Kathi Daley

Goodreads Blurb

Alyson Prescott moves to Cutters Cove, Oregon, after being placed, along with her mother, in the witness protection program. In her previous life, Alyson was an A-list heiress with the excitement of a trend setting lifestyle and the security of old money. After witnessing a murder executed by two members of a powerful gang family, she is forced to leave her old life behind and become a middle class girl, living in a middle class town. Alyson struggles with the duplicity in her life as she strives to reconcile her new life with the old.

In book two of the series, two Seacliff High students turn up missing just days before Halloween. The police believe that they have simply run away, but when strange and unexplained things begin to happen at the annual Haunted Hayride, Alyson begins to suspect there may be more going on than the adults in town would like to believe. After they the props and decorations for the annual event turn up missing, Alyson and the gang decide to look into the case of the missing students. Could the two events be connected? And what about the symbol found splattered in blood in the barn where the annual Halloween party is to take place? Could it be connected to the gypsy curse that most believe to be simply a legend?

Book two in the series will also begin to reveal Alyson’s past and the reason for her inclusion in witness protection.

My Review: Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Awesome YA book and series. Alyson is very brave and does anything to help and protect her family and friends. Loved the plot twist in this book. Great book to read in Halloween. Didn’t really expect the book to unravel as it did. Loving the romance between Alyson and Devon. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

Author Biography

Kathi lives with her husband, kids, grandkids, and dogs in beautiful Lake Tahoe. When she isn’t writing, Kathi likes to read (preferably at the beach or by the fire), cook (preferably something with chocolate or cheese,) and garden (planting and planning not weeding). She also enjoys spending time on the water when she’s not hiking, biking, or snowshoeing, the miles of desolate trails surrounding her home.
Kathi uses the mountain setting in which she lives, along with the animals (wild and domestic) that share her home, as inspiration for her cozy mysteries.

Review: Merry Mary by Ashley Farley

Goodreads Blurb

A young woman longing for a child happens upon a Christmas miracle. Investigative journalist Scottie Darden is photographing the homeless for her Lost Souls Series when she makes a discovery that changes her life forever. Under a makeshift tent in subzero temperatures in a downtown city park, she discovers a woman’s dead body and her infant child. Without her cell phone to call for help, Scottie makes the split-second decision to take the baby home. Her intent is to provide the baby with food and shelter until her family is located. But as her fondness for the baby grows, she finds herself facing a life on the run. Or worse—prison time for abduction. Curl up with Merry Mary this holiday season. A heartwarming story of the powerful connection between a caring soul and an innocent child in need.

My Review: Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Won this book from GoodReads. I couldn’t put the book down until I finished. It was such a touching story. I was so worried for what could happen to Scottie when the cops found out she had the baby. I loved how her family was there to help her make the right decision. This is a story that will touch your heart and make you teary-eyed. It a story with a conflict of protecting a baby and doing what she felt was right for the baby to come to realization that the baby did have grandparents and they were kind people. When life puts you in a difficult situation, you will find the right solution. Great book that touched my heart dearly.

Author Biography

Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.

A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.