Destination Funeral by Paige Harbison

A fresh take on Groundhog Day in this heartfelt and hilarious novel following a friend group so damaged that only a funeral could bring them back together. 

When Babe—the complicated, magnetic matriarch of their teenage summers—dies, four estranged friends return to sleepy Mercy Island, a storm-swept stretch of coastal Georgia, summoned by the reading of her will.

Didion arrives at the timeworn pink house to find the friends she never thought she’d see again—along with the tensions, attractions, and unfinished business that once bound them together and broke them apart.

What should be a brief weekend of small talk quickly unravels when they wake up and discover...it’s Saturday. Again. And again. And again.

Trapped in a time loop with no end and no instructions, they’re forced to confront the betrayals, breakups, and buried truths that shattered them all those years ago. Because maybe, just maybe, an endless weekend is exactly what they all need to save their own lives.

A Macmillan Audio production from St. Martin’s Press

 Audiobook, 10 hours, 18 minutes

Published July 21, 2026 

by Macmillan Audio

3.5/5 stars

Destination Funeral, out since July 21, was my second read by Paige Harbison, I really enjoying her debut, The Other Side of Now. I listened to this one as an audiobook ARC.

When Babe dies, four estranged friends are pulled back to Mercy Island for the reading of her will.  They find themselves stuck in a Groundhog Day style time loop the night before her funeral.

A time loop naturally means covering similar ground on repeat. That said, Harbison does it well, letting small shifts show up in each loop as the group slowly catches on. Each friend brings a distinct personality to the group  with the story weaving back in time to show how their friendship formed and the moments over the years that shaped who they became.  It gave the present day tension more weight and I was able to grasp exactly what each was carrying into that pink house.

Destination Funeral is a story about family,  sisters specifically and a group of friends finding their way back to each other. A warm, bittersweet read that asked for a little patience, but worth it in the end.

My thanks to Macmillan Audio for an advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.

Road Trip by Mary Kay Andrews

Mary Kay Andrews is back with her first novel in two years!

Maeve and Therese Dunigan are sisters—but the two have been estranged for years. They could not be more Maeve, a rule-follower and Therese, a rebel. But when their mother's death brings the family back together, the two find that they have inherited a painting—one that could be worth millions and could save each of them from their respective wolves at the door. 

The only issue is, the painting might be a fake and the only way the can solve the problem is to find the original. This means a road trip—to Ireland, to their family roots, and to a mysterious crime that occurred years ago. 

With tensions simmering, the two hit the road and find themselves on twisty lanes, in colorful villages, at local pubs, and with handsome men whose gift of the gab is surpassed only by their charm. 

Can Maeve and Therese find the real painting, remove a family curse, solve a cold case, and actually survive without killing each other? 

Join Mary Kay Andrews on a road trip that will entertain you for miles.

Audiobook, 14 hours, 57 minutes

Published June 2, 2026

 by Macmillan Audio

3.5/5 stars

This is my second time reading Mary Kay Andrews,  she delivers another warm, character-driven story that hits all the right notes for a lovely beach read. Or listen, since I went the audiobook route.

Road Trip follows two estranged sisters brought together following the death of their mother. One stayed close to home, caring for their mother through her final days. The other was off chasing her dreams. Circumstance throws them together for a trip to Ireland and what unfolds is equal parts grief, humour and some long-overdue honest conversations.

At the heart of the story is a painting that has been in the family for generations, one their mother refused to sell just never said why. As the sisters travel, the history behind that painting slowly reveals itself, adding an intriguing layer to what is already a compelling family story.

Road Trip is a story about family, relationships and the complicated history that exists between some siblings. The trip to Ireland itself brings adventure, new friends and self-discovery as the sisters work to unravel this mystery. It's about resolving differences and coming to understand that every person - including the mother at the centre of it all - has their own story to tell. And true to the author's style, there is also a touch of romance woven in. 

My thanks to Macmillan Audio for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Captain's Clue by Brock Eastman & Shaun Stevenson

A hilarious action-adventure series for Christian kids set in a town where the parables of Jesus literally come to life.

Anthony and his friends have barely caught their breath after escaping wild vines and dive-bombing birds when Parable Port is hit with the storm of the century. The rain won’t stop. The waters are rising. And something about it feels… biblical.

Turns out, the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders has gone haywire—and the whole town is in danger of being washed away. Teaming up with Grace and Duck, Anthony sets out to track down the mysterious lighthouse keeper, Captain David, who just might hold the key to saving Parable Port.

Meanwhile, budding podcaster J.R. is starstruck by a quirky new celebrity journalist in town. But when chasing a big story starts costing her real friendships, J.R. must decide what matters likes and listeners, or truth and loyalty.

As electric eels zap through flooded streets and homes crumble like sandcastles, the gang must decode clues, face tough choices, and learn what it really means to build your life on a solid foundation.

Can they reach Captain David before the storm destroys everything—or will Parable Port be lost beneath the waves?

This Christian book series A map of Parable Port―Follow along as the kids run around town to solve the mystery Chapter opener illustrations―Comedic and engaging artwork brings the story to life Spiritual lessons―At the back of the book, enjoy a kid-friendly devotional that explains the Parable of the Wise & Foolish Builder Penguin cast podcast―QR code for J.R.’s boots-on-the-ground interviews and analysis A fast-paced story line filled with suspense that makes it perfect for reluctant readers Hilarious antics Perfect for boys and girls ages 8-12.

Kindle Edition, 210 pages

Audiobook, 4 hours, 19 minutes

Published June 9, 2026

 by Tyndale Kids

3.5/5 stars

The Captain's Clue is the second book in a Christian fiction middle grade series built around the theme of parables, it released last month. If you have a middle grade reader in your life who enjoys adventure with a faith-based message woven through, this one is worth the read.

Though I am not the targeted audience it was an enjoyable read. And I do recommend reading book 1, The Sower's Seed, first.  Just as a nice introduction to the characters.

The Captain's Clue is loosely based on the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders, there is lots of adventure and layers going on. It's a story of friendship and mystery.

 I appreciated the discussion notes included at the end of the story. They open the door for  conversation between young readers and the adults in their lives, which is always a welcome addition to books in this category.

My thanks to Tyndale Kids (via NetGalley) for both the digital ARC and audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

Good Joy, Bad Joy by Mikki Brammer

From the author of The Collected Regrets of Clover comes a vibrant, heartfelt novel about friendship over the decades, self-discovery, and what it means to have a life well-lived.

Break the rules. Find your joy.

For over eighty years, Joy Bridport has played by the rules: she's been a devoted wife and mother, contributing to the community in her small Hudson Valley town. But her quiet existence is jolted when she learns that her best friend, Hazel, only has months left to live. Hazel has always been the more adventurous one of their duo, and she seems at peace with all that she’s squeezed out of her long life. Yet Joy realizes she can’t say the same.

Determined to live boldly and make the most of the time that she and Hazel have left together, Joy steps outside of her comfort zone—and into a bit of trouble. But as her foray into rule-breaking escalates into committing petty crime, Joy must consider what kind of legacy she wants to leave behind, and whether there's a way for her to embrace the liberation that "Bad Joy" offers without losing all that she holds dear.

Is it ever too late to become who we're meant to be? With laugh-out-loud hijnks and emotional heft, Good Joy, Bad Joy is a heartwarming and wise celebration of the choices we make, the friendships we cherish, and the lengths we go for love.

Audiobook, 11 hours 5 minutes

Expected publication May 5, 2026

 by Macmillan Audio

3/5 stars

This is one of those books that everyone and their uncle seems to absolutely love…but for me, it just didn't land in that category.

Good Joy, Bad Joy has such a great premise, lifelong friendship, facing the end of life and the idea of finally breaking the rules after decades of playing it safe. Joy and Hazel’s relationship was easily the strongest part of the story, I appreciated the themes around legacy, regret and what it means to truly live. There are definitely some heartfelt and touching moments.

That said, I never fully connected with the story the way I expected to. The emotional impact didn’t hit as deeply as I’d hoped and parts of Joy’s journey, especially the  'rule-breaking' and petty crime elements felt a bit uneven for me. I could see what the author was going for, but it didn’t always land.

I’m really glad I listened this to the audiobook, the narration helped keep me engaged, especially during the slower sections.  

All in all I can understand why this resonates with so many readers, it just didn’t quite live up to the hype for me. Not a bad read by any means, just not a standout.

My thanks to Macmillan Audio for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams by Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie

In time for the 250th Anniversary of the birth of the United States comes a sweeping, intimate portrayal of Abigail Adams - wife of one president and mother to another - whose wit, willpower, and wisdom helped shape the fledgling republic. 

In the heart of revolutionary Boston, Abigail Adams raises her children amid riots, blockades, and the outbreak of war. While her husband, John Adams, rises from country lawyer to nation-builder, often away for years at a time, Abigail builds her own independence—managing their farm, making lucrative investments, amassing savings, battling plague and loss, and defending their home. Unafraid to speak her mind, she famously offers fearless political counsel, urging John to “remember the ladies” in the new government. Through it all, she becomes his most trusted confidante and indispensable ally.

When peace is secured, Abigail steps onto the world stage—exchanging ideas with Thomas Jefferson in the French countryside, navigating court life as the wife of the Minister to Great Britain, and presiding over the parlor politics of the early American republic in New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. Even after her husband’s presidential administration, she continues battling political foes and working behind the scenes to advance her family, secure independence for the women in her life, and ensure a better life for the next generation of Americans.

From war-torn streets to the chandeliered halls of power, A Founding Mother is the unforgettable story of a woman ahead of her time—one whose voice, vision, and valor still resonate powerfully today.

Audiobook, 17 hours 20 minutes

Expected publication May 5, 2026

by William Morrow Paperbacks

4.5/5 stars

A Founding Mother is exactly what I've come to expect from this writing duo - they consistently deliver when it comes to well researched historical fiction.

This story brings Abigail Adams to life.  Set against the backdrop of the American Revolution and the early years of the nation, I didn't just see the political world taking shape but also her personal side. While John Adams is off helping to build a nation she is at home managing everything - raising a family, handling finances while also facing the realities of war and loss.

As with their previous books, the writing is detailed but not bogged down with details.  It isn't a small thing either, 464 pages, it is a slower paced, character driven read.  Abigail Adams was a woman ahead of her time.

I listened to the audiobook, which comes in at just over 17 hours.  It was narrated by Cassandra Campbell - one of my favourites.  

I've had the privilege of meeting Stephanie Dray many years ago and felt honored when she started following my blog in its early years.  Knowing what Laura Kamoie has been through in recent years made certain scenes hit that much harder emotionally.

This Canadian definitely appreciates reading about this time in history and can't wait to see what comes next for this duo.

My thanks to William Morrow for the audiobook arc in exchange for a honest review.

The Shippers Katherine Center

One of the hottest, fastest-rising rom-com stars delivers her latest swoon-worthy novel about a destination wedding on a cruise ship.

After a whole lifetime of being bad at love, JoJo Burton decides to solve her intimacy issues once and for all at her sister’s destination wedding on a cruise ship. With the help of a little pop psychology, she diagnoses herself with a fixation on the neighborhood guy who was her her first crush and first kiss (and who just happens to be a newly-divorced wedding guest ), and she decides to woo him during the cruise for some long-delayed closure. Only problem is, her sister’s a little busy being a bride at the moment—so JoJo ropes in her childhood bestie, Cooper Watts, to be her wing man. Cooper: who RSVPed no, but then showed up, anyway. Cooper: who left town without a word four years earlier and moved to London. Cooper: who was, if she’s honest, the worst heartbreak of JoJo’s life. It’s bliss for her to see him again, and it’s agony, too—and the more they team up for Project Conquest, the more she obsesses over questions she can’t bring herself to ask.

Shipboard antics ensue in this witty, heart-tugging, childhood-friends-to-lovers romance—as JoJo and Cooper fake flirt, slow dance, share a cabin, sing duets, treat sunburns, get jealous, rescue each other over and over, and finally, at last, figure it all out in the most blissful, swoony, romantic way.

No one does summer romance quite like Katherine Center. THE SHIPPERS will take readers on the cruise of a lifetime in a story awash with romantic longing, top-notch banter, long-held secrets . . . and true love rediscovered.

Kindle Edition, 336 pages

Expected publication May 19, 2026

 by St. Martin's Press

3.75/5 stars

Katherine Center is an auto-read author for me. Ever since reading The Bodyguard, I’ve been slowly working my way through her backlist, and I’ll pretty much pick up anything new she releases.

I was also lucky enough to receive both a digital and audiobook ARC for this one, so I ended up doing a bit of a hybrid read, which worked really well for this kind of story.

The audiobook is narrated by Patti Murin, I’ve listened to a number of books she’s done before and have always enjoyed them. She really does know how to bring a book to life.

A romance set on a cruise ship? As a cruiser myself, I couldn't wait to dig in.

The setting was a lot of fun. Between the wedding prep, the close quarters and all the classic cruise ship moments, it made for a easy, beach read. It has that light, escapist feel her books are known for, but still with some emotional depth underneath.

JoJo is definitely one of those slightly messy, figuring-it-out characters. Her plan to 'fix' her love life added some humour, but also highlighted some deeper issues. I didn’t always agree with her choices but I understood where she was coming from. Then there is Cooper… the childhood best friend who left without a word. Their history is what drives this story. It added tension and gives the romance more weight, even when the story leans into the lighter, rom-com moments.

The romance hits a lot of familiar tropes along with Center's witty banter is always fun to read. Overall, this was a fun, easy read. Not my favourite of hers, but still a solid addition to her backlist and exactly the kind of book I reach for when I want something light and romantic.

My thanks to Macmillain Audio and St. Martin's Press for audio/digital arc in exchange for honest review.

Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

From Sally Hepworth, comes a twist-filled, darkly funny mystery about the two kinds of people no one ever expects to be little girls and old ladies.

Meet Mad Mabel.

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick is eighty-one years old. She's lived on her idyllic street, Kenny Lane, for sixty years--longer than anyone else. Aside from being a curmudgeon who minds everyone else's business, few would suspect that Elsie has a past that she has worked exceedingly hard at concealing. Because when it comes to murder, no one ever suspects little girls or old ladies. And Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick, once a little girl and now an old lady, has a strange history of people in her life coming to a foul end.

When a new little girl (talkative, curious, nosy) moves into the neighborhood and stops at nothing to befriend Elsie, her carefully-constructed life threatens to come crashing down as the secrets in Elsie's past start coming to light. Who was "Mad Mabel" fifty years ago? Who is Elsie Fitzpatrick today? And if the past has a habit of repeating itself, who has the most to lose?

Told with Sally Hepworth's twists, humor, charm, and heart, MAD MABEL is novel that weaves past and present together--through the power of justice and redemption, and all the way to its stunning conclusion.

Kindle Edition, 352 pages

Expected publication April 21, 2026

 by St. Martin's Press

4.5/5 stars

Mad Mabel by Australian author Sally Hepworth takes place in one of my favorite settings...Australian.  Yup its on my bucket list. 

Told in two timelines, one that follows Mabel in her senior years and the other taking me back to her teenage life.  I really enjoyed how those perspectives slowly came together.

In the present day, Mabel carries the nickname 'Mad Mabel,'  at first I was not entirely sure what to believe about her. Is she unreliable? Misunderstood? Or is there more going on beneath the surface? I loved how the story gradually peeled back those layers instead of giving me easy answers.

The past timeline shows the early death of Mabel’s mother and how deeply that loss shaped her. You can feel how her grief turned into anger, loneliness and that desperate need for connection and friendship. Watching those formative years unfold gave so much context to the woman she becomes later in life. It added emotional weight to the twists because they didn’t feel shocking just for the sake of it, they felt earned.

Mad Mabel is a layered story of grief, secrets and how easily a woman can be labeled without full disclosure. There were definitely some well-placed twists that made me rethink what I thought I understood and I appreciated how the dual timelines connected in a way that felt satisfying rather than rushed.  I found myself fully invested in Mabel’s journey from beginning to end.

This was a hybrid read for me, I highly recommend both the reading part and audiobook.

My thanks to Macmillan Audio and St. Martin's press for advanced copies in exchange for a honest review.

Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict

Bestselling author Marie Benedict, returns with a sweeping tale of a young woman who unearths the truth about a forgotten Pharoah—rewriting both of their legacies forever.

In the 1920s, archeologist Howard Carter and Lord Carnarvon of Highclere Castle made headlines around the world with the discovery of the treasure-filled tomb of the boy Pharaoh Tutankhamun. But behind it all stood Lady Evelyn Herbert—daughter of Lord Carnarvon—whose daring spirit and relentless curiosity made the momentous find possible.

Nearly 3,000 years earlier, another woman defied the expectations of her Hatshepsut, Egypt’s lost pharaoh. Her reign was bold, visionary—and nearly erased from history.

When Evelyn becomes obsessed with finding Hatshepsut’s secret tomb, she risks everything to uncover the truth about her reign and keep valued artifacts in Egypt, their rightful home. But as danger closes in and political tensions rise, she must make an impossible protect her father’s legacy—or forge her own.

Propelled by high adventure and deadly intrigue, Daughter of Egypt is the story of two ambitious women who lived centuries apart. Both were forced to hide who they were during their lifetimes, yet ultimately changed history forever.

Kindle Edition, 320 pages

Audiobook, 10 hours, 15 minutes

Expected publication March 24, 2026 

by St. Martin's Press/Macmillan Audio

4/5 stars

Daughters of Egypt is a dual-timeline historical novel that highlights women whose influence and intelligence were often pushed to the margins of history. Told through two points of view nearly 3,000 years apart, this story shows how power, ambition and determination echo across time.

One timeline is set in the 1920s and follows Lady Evelyn Carnarvon, who has a passion for archaeology.  Through her friendship with Howard Carter, we get a fascinating look at the excitement, tension, and behind-the-scenes look at history. At the same time seeing how much Evelyn herself longed to be taken seriously in a male-dominated field.

The second timeline takes us back to ancient Egypt and follows Hatshepsut, a woman determined to rule in a world that refuses to accept a female pharaoh. Her journey is compelling and powerful, and the parallels between her struggles and Evelyn’s make the dual narrative especially effective.

Overall, this was an immersive and thoughtful read that did a great job bringing overlooked women to the forefront of history. 

Note: I was luck to get both the digital and audiobook, it was a fun hybrid read.  I will confess that I enjoyed reading the book moreso, one of the povs didn't work for me in audio.

My thanks to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for advanced copies in exchange for a honest review.

The Charmed Library by Jennifer Moorman

The Charmed Library, a love letter to libraries, favorite childhood stories, and readers who have fallen for fictional heroes.

Like many other public libraries, the one in Blue Sky Valley, North Carolina, is a haven for readers. But it's also unlike any other. In this library, fictional characters step off the page into real life. Assistant librarian Stella Parker has no idea. Still reeling from her father's death and--more recently--a breakup, she hasn't noticed. All she knows is she's stuck in a job she's overqualified for and stumped about what to do with her life.

Everything changes when she burns her beloved journal.

Words matter to Stella. For as long as she can remember, she's seen them. Words appear--in varying colors and fonts--rising from surfaces, bouncing over objects, and even wiggling out of people. Words give her insight into emotions and untold stories. But the words change for Stella after she burns her journal. Suddenly they're demanding, urgent--and painful.

Then Stella stumbles upon strange characters in the library after hours. One is an oddly familiar World War II soldier who introduces himself as Jack--Jack Mathis, the main character from her favorite book. A fictional hero and Stella's first crush. Standing in front of her in the flesh.

Jack tells Stella about the magic hidden in the library. Skeptical, Stella rashly invites a villain to visit, and chaos ensues. As she discovers the importance of protecting the library's secret and gets to know the real Jack, words continue to appear. What are they trying to tell her?

Much too quickly, Stella is faced with the reality that all stories must end, and magic comes at a price. The characters who visit the library can only stay for fourteen days. And Jack's time is almost up.

The Charmed Library invites readers to escape to a world where words come alive and book boyfriends leap off the page.

Kindle Edition, 352 pages

Audiobook, 11 hours, 41 minutes

Expected publication

January 6, 2026 by Harper Muse

3.5 stars

This was my first time reading Jennifer Moorman, I read part on Kindle and listened to part on audio, which made it easy to sink into the story no matter where I was.

The book follows Stella, who’s had a rough go of things lately  - dealing with her father’s passing and a recent breakup. Just when she needs a little light in her life something magical begins to happen, a character from her favorite book comes to life. How could any book lover resist that?

The Charmed Library has a cozy, heartwarming feel that made me think of a Hallmark movie.  The magical realism gave it a whimsical touch and while I’ve read a few stories lately with a similar vibe this one still felt unique and charming in its own way.

A sweet, imaginative read that blends grief, healing and a bit of bookish magic. Perfect for a cozy weekend read when you’re in the mood for something light and hopeful.

My thanks to the publisher (via NetGalley) for both the digital and audio arcs in exchange for a honest review.

The Austen Affair by Madeline Bell

Two feuding co-stars in a Jane Austen film adaptation accidentally travel back in time to the Regency Era in this delightfully clever and riotously funny debut

Tess Bright just scored her dream role starring in an adaptation of Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey. It's not just the role of a lifetime, but it’s also her last chance to prove herself as a serious actress (no easy feat after being fired from her last TV gig) and more importantly, it’s her opportunity to honor her mom, who was the biggest fan of Jane Austen ever. But one thing is standing in Tess’s way—well, one very tall, annoyingly handsome person, actually: Hugh Balfour.

A serious British method actor, Hugh wants nothing to do with Tess (whose Teen Choice Awards somehow don’t quite compare to his BAFTA nominations). Hugh is a type-A, no-nonsense, Royal Academy prodigy, whereas Tess is big-hearted, a little reckless, and admittedly, kind of a mess. But the film needs chemistry—and Tess’s career depends on it.

Sparks fly, but not in the way Tess hoped, when an electrical accident sends the two feuding co-stars back in time to Jane Austen’s era. 200 years in the past with only each other to rely on, Tess and Hugh need to ad-lib their way through the Regency period in order to make it back home, and hopefully not screw up history along the way. But if a certain someone looks particularly dashing in those 19th century breeches…well, Tess won’t be complaining.

A wickedly funny, delightfully charming story, The Austen Affair is a tribute to Jane Austen, second chances, and love across the space-time continuum.

Audiobook, 10 hours, 31 minutes

Published September 16, 2025 

by St. Martin's Griffin

4/5

I’ll confess right up front that I am not a big Jane Austen fan, and I usually avoid Austen retellings altogether. But The Austen Affair managed to win me over. It has that Austen-inspired charm without feeling heavy-handed.

Tess Bright is still navigating her grief after losing her mother. She’s someone I connected with, her determination and vulnerability made her an interesting character. .Then there’s Hugh, someone rough around the edges and seems to have lost all sense of joy in life. As their paths cross it was enjoyable to witness how this story played out.  It was a complicated relationship especially when they find themselves stranded in Jane Austen era.

The Austen Affair is a story of family, grief and determination. There is witty dialogue and heartfelt moments without going overboard for this non Jane Austen reader while at the same time peeking my interest into some of her books  

I listened to the audiobook, the narration was excellent, it enhanced the story.  I ended up finishing the whole thing within just 24 hours.

Overall, The Austen Affair was a delightful surprise and a solid read for me. It’s charming, smart and heartfelt, with characters you can root for and a plot that kept me turning pages (or in my case, listening straight through).

My thanks to Macmillan Audio for advanced copy in exchange for a honest review.

The Executioners Three by Susan Dennard

From New York Times bestselling author Susan Dennard comes The Executioners Three, a mystery filled with rivalry, romance, best friends, and a gruesome curse that dates back centuries.

Freddie Gellar didn't mean to get half the rival high school arrested. She’d simply heard shrieks coming from the woods, so she’d called the cops like any good human would do. How was she supposed to know it was just kids partying?

Except the next day, a body is found. And while the local sheriff might call it suicide, Freddie's instincts tell her otherwise. So, like the aspiring sleuth (and true X-Files aficionado) she is, Freddie sets out to prove there's a murderer at large.

Kindle Edition, 304 pages

Audiobook, 9 hours, 12 minutes

Published August 26, 2025

 by Tor Teen and Mcmillan Audio

4/5 stars

I was attracted to The Executioners Three because of the cover which was quickly followed up with the blurb. 

I was drawn within the first couple of chapters.  With a cast of unreliable characters and that supernatural element that drew on past events. This was my kind of mystery that had tension and suspense.  Add in some good banter and I was in my happy place. 

Told from a number of different view points rounded everything out, each one added a fresh layer and kept me piecing things together in new ways. This unique mystery kept me guessing all the way through, there were plenty of twists that made me want to keep turning the pages. The past storyline wove in nicely creating a Gothic feel. Freddie is a fun character, she is creative and kinda fun to hang out with.

Susan Dennard is a new author for me, I will be checking out her backlist.

My thanks to Tor Teens and Mcmillan Audio for digital arcs in exchange for a honest review.

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

From Newbery Honoree and E. B. White Award–winning author Natalie Babbitt, Tuck Everlasting is a spellbinding modern-day masterpiece about immortality, friendship, and growing up that’s sure to be an all-time favorite for every generation.

What if you could live forever? In this timeless story young Winnie Foster learns of a hidden spring in a nearby wood and meets the Tuck family, whose members reveal their astonishing discovery of the spring’s life-changing power. Now Winnie must decide what to do with her newfound knowledge—and the Tucks must decide what to do with her. But it’s not just the curious girl who is interested in their remarkable tale. A suspicious stranger is also searching for the Tucks, and he will stop at nothing until he finds them and uncovers their secret.

Audiobook, 3 hours, 10 minutes

Expected publication September 2, 2025

 by Macmillan Audio

3.5/5 stars

This was my first time experiencing Tuck Everlasting, having heard about it I didn't know what it was about so went in blind. Considered a modern classic I was excited to read...well I listened to the audiobook.  The special 50th anniversary edition releases Sept 2.

Tuck Everlasting is a gentle story of life, mortality and what it means to truly live. Sounds like a heavy load but it wasn't really. The narration was clear, though maybe at times a little too subdued. I didn't really feel the key emotional moments, might have been different if I had read the book.  The tension lacked somewhat, I wasn't drawn in like I had hoped. The story itself was interesting enough and for middle grade readers it fits the bill. There is adventure, mystery and family all packed in.

It isn't a long audiobook and the book itself is only 148 pages, a nice way to spend a rainy (or hot, hot) afternoon.

My thanks to Macmillan Audio for an e-audio in exchange for a honest review.

The Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth Durst

Sarah Beth Durst invites you to her new standalone novel nestled on a far-away island brimming with singing flowers, honey cakes, and honeyed love. The hardcover edition features beautiful sprayed edges.

Terlu Perna broke the law because she was lonely. She cast a spell and created a magically sentient spider plant. As punishment, she was turned into a wooden statue and tucked away into an alcove in the North Reading Room of the Great Library of Alyssium.

This should have been the end of her story . . . Yet one day, Terlu wakes in the cold of winter on a nearly-deserted island full of hundreds of magical greenhouses. She’s starving and freezing, and the only other human on the island is a grumpy gardener. To her surprise, he offers Terlu a place to sleep, clean clothes, and freshly baked honey cakes—at least until she’s ready to sail home.

But Terlu can’t return home and doesn’t want to—the greenhouses are a dream come true, each more wondrous than the next. When she learns that the magic that sustains them is failing—causing the death of everything within them—Terlu knows she must help. Even if that means breaking the law again.

This time, though, she isn’t alone. Assisted by the gardener and a sentient rose, Terlu must unravel the secrets of a long-dead sorcerer if she wants to save the island—and have a fresh chance at happiness and love.

Funny, kind, and forgiving, The Enchanted Greenhouse is a story about giving second chances—to others and to yourself.

Kindle Edition, 375 pages

Audiobook, 13 hours, 32 minutes

Published July 15, 2025

 by Tor Publishing/Macmillan Audio

4/5 stars

Sarah Beth Durst has long been one of my favorite YA fantasy authors and one I am trying to get caught up on her backlist. This, her latest release, The Enchanted Greenhouse is yet another charming addition to her growing collection of cozy fantasy stories. While technically a sequel to The Spellshop, this book easily stands on its own, but I highly recommend it not just for the charm and fun story but a tad of an introduction to Chaz - a magical spider plant.

The Enchanted Greenhouse isn’t a spicy or high-stakes epic fantasy but rather it’s a gentle, heartfelt tale that’s perfect for those who prefer their magic with more tea and introspection than swords and steamy romance. Set in a magical greenhouse brimming with unusual plants there is mystery, secrets and some suspense.  Maybe even a touch of romance. 

As Terlu tries to rebuild her life the past stays front and center as she fears being caught and the consequences. This is a story with themes of loneliness, family estrangement and the challenge of letting go of the past. It’s all wrapped in an enchanting setting that feels like a place you’d want to escape to yourself - maybe a nice reading spot. The characters are endearing, unique and fun.

A comforting read that I to readers of cozy fantasy and anyone looking for a magical escape with some emotional depth.

My thanks to both Tor Publishing and Macmillan Audio for e-arcs in exchange for a honest review.

The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline

Lately, Julia Pritzker is beginning to think she’s cursed. She’s lost her adoptive parents, then her husband is murdered. When she realizes that her horoscope essentially foretold his death, she begins to spiral. She fears her fate is written in the stars, not held in her own hands.

Then a letter arrives out of the blue, informing her that she has inherited a Tuscan villa and vineyard —but her benefactor is a total stranger named Emilia Rossi. Julia has no information about her biological family, so she wonders if Rossi could be a blood relative. Bewildered, she heads to Tuscany for answers.

There, Julia is horrified to discover that Rossi was a paranoid recluse, who believed herself to be a descendent of Duchess Caterina Sforza, a legendary Renaissance ruler. Stunned by her uncanny resemblance to Rossi, and even to Caterina, Julia is further unnerved when she unearths eerie parallels between them, including an obsession with astrology.

Before long, Julia suspects she’s being followed, and strange things begin to happen. Not even a chance meeting with a handsome Florentine can ease her troubled mind. When events turn deadly, Julia’s harrowing struggle becomes a search for her identity, a race to save her sanity, and ultimately, a question of her very survival.

Kindle Edition, 396 pages

Audiobook, 10 hours, 28 minutes

Expected publication July 15, 2025

 by Grand Central Publishing/Hachette Audio

3.5/5 stars

This was my first time reading (and listening to) anything by Lisa Scottoline, I was intrigued from the start. Splitting my time between the audiobook and the Kindle edition, both formats worked really well - the narration added an extra layer of intensity, especially during the more suspenseful moments.

The story follows Julia, who's grieving the sudden loss of her husband when she unexpectedly inherits a villa in Italy. Sounds dreamy, right? But of course, it’s not that simple. From the moment Julia arrives the atmosphere shifts, there's a heavy moody vibe with a setting that is vivid and at times spooky.

Things take a turn toward the paranormal pretty quickly, and nothing is quite what it seems. There are some unreliable characters, strange events, and twists that kept me guessing the whole way through. Just when I thought I had things figured out, something else would unravel (pun totally intended).

The Unraveling of Julia is a mix of grief, mystery with just enough supernatural weirdness that keep me wondering what was real. If you're into books with a haunting setting, emotional depth, and plenty of twists, this one’s worth a read.

I’ll be checking out more from Lisa Scottoline after this.

My thanks to Grand Central Publishing and Hachette Audio for advanced copies in exchange for a honest review.

Night Watcher by Daphne Woolsoncroft

Nola Strate, a late night radio host in Portland, Oregon, listens to stories of hauntings and cryptic sightings for a living. But one foggy evening, a caller describes an eerie scene that triggers memories of Nola’s childhood escape from a serial killer, and she fears he’s back to finish what he started.

Nola Strate is being watched, again.

After an encounter with a notorious serial killer in the Pacific Northwest as a child, Nola has grown up and tried her best to forget her traumatizing night with the Hiding Man. She installed security cameras outside her Oregon home, never spoke of her experience, and now hosts Night Watch, a popular radio call-in show her semi‑famous father used to run. When coincidences lead Nola to believe that she is being stalked, and a caller on Night Watch has a live incident with an intruder in the caller's home—the description of whom is chillingly familiar—Nola is convinced that the Hiding Man has resurfaced and is coming for her.

With a mysterious next‑door neighbor lurking in the shadows, more people getting hurt, the police not taking her concerns seriously, and evidence pointing towards her own father, Nola decides to become, like her listeners, a Night Watcher herself, and uncover the monster behind the Hiding Man's mask.

Kindle Edition, 332 pages

Audiobook, 9 hours, 7 minutes

Expected publication July 8, 2025

 by Grand Central Publishing

3/5 stars

This was my first time reading anything by Daphne Woolsoncroft.

The story follows Nola Strate, a late-night radio host whose world gets shaken when a caller brings up something that drags her straight back to a traumatic night in her past, the night her babysitter was brutally murdered. As new crimes start popping up around the city, Nola can’t shake the feeling that history might be repeating itself and 'The Hiding Man' is back.

There’s a good mix of mystery and some tension here. The story of the past slowly unraveled and showed parallel similarities. I read this one in a mix of audio and Kindle,  both formats worked really well. The audiobook narrator added some emotional weight to the tense moments. That being said, something felt just a little off,  it was intriguing, but not fully immersive for me. I wanted a bit more punch or surprise from the ending. Still, it was a satisfying read overall.

Thanks to Hachette Audio for the audiobook and Grand Central Publishing for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

False Note by David Lagercrantz

A toxic father-son relationship unleashes dark impulses and unthinkable betrayals in a riveting short story by the New York Times bestselling author of The Girl in the Spider’s Web.

William’s father is a beloved opera singer in Stockholm, charismatic and unpredictable. Raised in the shadow of his father’s addictions—women, drink, and cruelty—he knows the man’s dark side. William believes he’s found the light when he falls in love with a fellow university student, a young woman named Ebba. But his father’s hold on his life is not so easily broken. Even in death.

David Lagercrantz’s False Note is part of Alibis, a collection of stories about lies, truth, and deception. It’s just a matter of what you can get away with. They can be read or listened to in one sitting.

Audiobook, 1 hour, 9 minutes

Kindle Edition, 41 pages

Published June 2, 2025

 by Amazon Original Stories

2.5/5 stars

False Note is part of the Alibis Short Story collection recently released through Amazon Original Stories. Each story is written by a different author and they’re all standalone, so you can jump in wherever. This is book 3 and my first time reading David Lagercrantz.

One thing I like about these short story collections is discovering new writers - sometimes it leads me to explore more of their work. 

False Note follows William and his strained relationship with his father, it is set in Stockholm. It’s clear early on that things between them aren’t great and that tension is the main focus throughout the 41 pages. There's a theme of deception and while there’s definitely a lot packed into such a short read, it was an okay story.

I listened to the audiobook version, it was mildly entertaining, the plot felt rushed, pretty predictable and honestly not very original. I couldn’t help but feel like it might’ve worked better as a full novel with more room for depth of character and plot development. But given the size it was an ok read, actually a listen since I went the audio route.

My thanks to Brillance Publishing for a e-audio copy in exchange for a honest review.

The English Masterpiece by Katherine Reay

Set in the art world of 1970s London, The English Masterpiece is a fast-paced read to the end, full of glamour and secrets, tensions and lies, as one young woman races against the clock to uncover the truth about a Picasso masterpiece. Perfect for fans of Kate Quinn and Ariel Lawhon.

As the recently promoted assistant to the Tate's Modern Collections keeper Diana Gilden, Lily helps plan a world-class Picasso exhibit to honor the passing of the great artist--and she's waited her whole life for this moment. The opening is beyond anyone's expectations--the lighting, the champagne, the glittering crowd, and the international acclaim--until Lily does the unthinkable. She stops in front of a masterpiece and hears her own voice say, "It's a forgery." The gallery falls silent.

Lily's boss, Diana, is polished perfection, schooled in art, and descends from European high society. She's worked hard to become the trusted voice in London's modern art scene and respected across the Continent. The Tate's Picasso Commemorative is to be her crowning achievement, featuring not only the artist's most iconic and intimate works, but a newly discovered painting--one she advised an investor to purchase. But when Lily makes her outrageous declaration, suspicion and scandal threaten everything Diana has achieved, as museums and collectors across Europe, already doubting most post-war acquisitions, fall into chaos and rumors of a world-wide forgery run wild.

All Lily has ever wanted is to follow in Diana's footsteps and take the art world by storm in her own right. Yet one comment puts not only her own career at risk but also her mentor's. Unless . . . Was she right? With the clock ticking and the clues starting to pile up against her, Lily must uncover the truth behind the Picasso before she loses not only the career she's always wanted, but her freedom.

Block off your calendar and lose yourself in The English Masterpiece, a thrilling read that will keep you on the edge of your seat till the very end from the author who brought you The London House and The Berlin Letters.

Paperback, 304 pages

Expected publication June 10, 2025

 by Harper Muse

4/5 stars

Katherine Reay has turned into one of my auto read authors, I am still going through her back list and jumped when offered a print arc of her newest read which releases tomorrow (June 10).

I love that the setting takes place in 1970s London, England. A world void of social media and electronic devices, however it was a time when women were not always accepted in the workplace. In The English Masterpiece Pablo Picasso has just passed away. His art is in demand, and when Lily, assistant to a highly respected Art curator, utters three words her life changes in an instant. Those three words, 'it's a forgery'. Not only is Picasso's painting on display but up for sale as well.

Told from the point of view of both Lily and her boss Diana, we enter into the world of modern art with its inner workings and suspicious activity. I really enjoyed this read. I found it interesting and appreciate the research to the author undertook to bring this story to light. It was well written with authentic characters and certainly reflected the time period.

While The Berlin Letters is still my favorite Reay book, The English Masterpiece follows close behind.  I am looking forward to continuing with my dive into her backlist. I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next.

My thanks to Harper Muse for a print arc in exchange for a honest review.

The Other Side of Now by Paige Harbison

A hilarious and heartfelt novel about how loves and lives are never truly lost, for fans of Rebecca Serle and Taylor Jenkins Reid.

With a leading role on a hit TV show and a relationship with Hollywood's latest heartthrob, Meg Bryan appears to have everything she ever wanted. But underneath the layers of makeup and hairspray, her happiness is as fake as her stage name, Lana Lord. Following a small breakdown at her thirtieth birthday party, she books an impromptu trip where she knows the grass is greener: Ireland. Specifically, the quaint little village where she and her best friend Aimee always dreamt of moving—a dream that fell apart when an accident claimed Aimee’s life a decade ago.

When Meg arrives, the people in town are so nice, treating her not as a stranger, but a friend. Except for the (extremely hot) bartender giving her the cold shoulder. Meg writes it all off as jetlag until she looks in the mirror. Her hair is no longer bleached within an inch of its life, her skin has a few natural fine lines, and her nose looks like… well, her old nose. Her real nose.

Her phone reveals hundreds of pictures of her life in this little town: with an adorable dog she doesn’t know; with the bartender who might be her (ex?) boyfriend; and at a retail job unrelated to acting. Eventually, she comes to accept that she somehow made a quantum slide into an alternate version of her life. But the most shocking realization of all? In this life, her best friend Aimee is alive and well…but wants nothing to do with Meg.

Despite her bewilderment, Meg is clear-eyed about one thing: this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to reconnect with her friend and repair what she broke. She finagles an opportunity to act in the play Aimee is writing and directing and as the project unfolds, Meg realizes that events as she remembers them may not be the only truth, and that an impossible choice looms before her.

Kindle Edition, 320 pages

Audiobook, 10 hours, 22 minutes

Expected publication June 3, 2025 

by St. Martin's Press/Macmillian Audio

4.5/5 stars

From the time I requested this on Netgalley until I read it I totally forgot what this book was about. So I headed in blind, which is so much fun.

The book starts on Meg Bryan’s 30th birthday, she is a Hollywood star and out of sorts. On impulse she books a trip to Ireland and left immediately. The story begins when she steps off the plane and begins exploring her way through this acquaint little town.  But something just feels off. Turns out she stepped into a alternate timeline where things that happened in the past 12 years didn’t actually happen.

I really enjoyed this book, it was witty, had some great characters and the storyline worked. The changes in her life begin to mess with her mind, because maybe she just likes this  new life better.

The Other Side of Now is a story of family, friendship, grief, and forgiveness.  It's about second chances and following your heart. I love the Ireland setting, yeah it’s on my bucket list.

The blurb advertises that this is great for fans of a couple well-known authors, but I think Ashley Poston would be a better comparison.

This was a hybrid read for me, the audio and the digital e-book, I highly recommend both formats.

My thanks to Macmillan Audio and Saint Martin’s press for advanced copies of both the digital and audiobook.

The Love Haters by Katherine Center

It’s a thin line between love and love-hating.

Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past—now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole’s request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West.

The catch? Katie’s not exactly qualified. She can’t swim—but fakes it that she can.

Plus: Cole is Hutch’s brother. And they don’t get along. Next stop paradise!

But paradise is messier than it seems. As Katie gets entangled with Hutch (the most scientifically good looking man she has ever seen . . . but also a bit of a love hater), along with his colorful Aunt Rue and his rescue Great Dane, she gets trapped in a lie. Or two.

Swim lessons, helicopter flights, conga lines, drinking contests, hurricanes, and stolen kisses ensue—along with chances to tell the truth, to face old fears, and to be truly brave at last.

Kindle edition, 320 pages

Audiobook, 10 hours

Expected publication May 20, 2025

by St. Martin's Press/Macmillan Audio

5/5 stars

Oh how good it feels to jump into a Katherine Centre story, some of my favourite rom/coms she has penned.  The Love Haters releases in less than a month, I highly recommend it.

Told from Katie Vaughn's point of view she takes on a job she is nowhere near qualified for, She is not only trying to help a coworker out but also possibly saving her own job. She gets way more than she bargained for.

As I’ve come to expect with this author, this wasn't just a rom/com, she also deals with relevant subject matter. For Katie, it is dealing with her inner demons in terms of body image, love ability and being too hard on herself. With a wonderful cast of characters I was thoroughly entertained with a story that was heartfelt. It made me laugh, smile and feel for all the characters, even George.

I was lucky enough to get both the e-book and audiobook for review purposes and I listened and read both. Center’s books are a perfect fit for audio since they are usually from the point of view of the main character, it's like she’s telling her story. The reader did an awesome job bringing Katie's story to life with heart and emotion. The e-book worked great for curling up on the couch to read and unwind. I will be adding the print copy to my shelf to go with her other books.

The Love Haters is a story of friendship, loss, self love and stepping out of your comfort zone. There is a Great Dane named George Bailey, who one can’t help but love along with Lucky his new little friend.

My thanks to St. Martin's Press and Macmillan Audio for advanced copies in exchange for a honest review.

The Impossible Thing by Belinda Bauer

From the exceptionally original mind of CWA Gold Dagger Award winner and Booker longlisted author Belinda Bauer comes this sweeping tale of obsession, greed, ambition, and a crime that has remained unsolved for a hundred years.

How do you find something that doesn’t exist?

1926. On the cliffs of Yorkshire, men are lowered on ropes to steal the eggs of the sea birds who nest there. The most beautiful are sold for large sums. A small girl—penniless and neglected by her family—retrieves one such treasure. Its discovery will forever alter the course of her life.

A century later. In a remote cottage in Wales, Patrick Fort finds his friend, Nick, and his mother tied up and robbed. The only thing missing: a carved case containing an incredible scarlet egg. Doggedly attempting to retrieve it, Patrick and Nick discover the cruel world of egg trafficking, and soon find themselves on the trail of a priceless collection of eggs lost to history. Until now.

A taut, wonderfully imagined novel brimming with skullduggery at every turn.

Kindle Edition, 336 pages

Audiobook, 8 hours, 16 minutes

Expected publication April 8, 2025

by Grove Atlantic & Dreamscape Media

4/5 stars

This is my second book by Belinda Bauer, Blacklands being my first.  This was a hybrid read, meaning I read the book while alternating with the audiobook - the reader did a read job bringing this story to life.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started, a book about eggs. It sounds not that interesting but I was intrigued. What I got was an entertaining and highly educational read about a subject I knew nothing about.

Beginning in 1926 as recently laid eggs are stolen from the nest of migrant birds. I did not realize how sought after these eggs are because of their colour and shell designs. An act that is illegal now and rather barbaric. A tiny hole is made to empty out the shell.

This is a dual time-period story that shows what length people will go to for these treasures.  A captivating story about greed, friendship and deceit.  It was mysterious, suspenseful and like I said educational.  And yes, I did Google it, what a fascinating subject. It gives homage to the learn something new every day saying.

My thanks to Grove Atlantic (for the kindle edition) and Dreamscape Media (for the audiobook) in exchange for a honest review.