Scan barcode
jkjoy_books's reviews
1615 reviews
The Girl in the Painting by Caleb Crowe
3.0
The author attempts to build suspense around the troubled relationship between Seline and her horrible, controlling boyfriend, Robbie. Their dynamic certainly has the potential to explore very complex interpersonal issues. However, the characters feel somewhat very two-dimensional. While Robbie’s behavior is problematic, little depth is given to help the reader understand the roots of his actions. Seline’s reactions also tend to rely on many tropes about women in abusive relationships rather than a nuanced response.
The subplot with Michael also aims to heighten the mystery but ultimately needs to be more developed. The connections between Seline’s past and Michael’s secrets are regularly hinted at rather than fully brought to light. This leaves the narrative feeling disjointed rather than complex.
There are glimmers of an intriguing premise here regarding the interplay between trauma, art, and also toxic relationships. But the execution overall feels almost average rather than exceptional. The plot points feel predictable, and the characters lack enough dimensionality to make their choices compelling. Still, the readers looking for a quick psychological thriller may find some enjoyment in these pages. With deeper character exploration and tightening of the storyline, the author can take these themes to the next level.
Thank you to Inkubator Books, Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours, and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.
The Au Pair by Jane Renshaw
4.0
Jane Renshaw writes The Au Pair, a suspenseful thriller that keeps readers in suspense until the last page. The book focuses on the lives of two au pairs, Alice and Melanie; they spend a summer working in Scotland with the remote Davidson family. While Melanie is coming to the Davidsons, she realizes something is not quite normal in the family. There are odd sounds and odd visitors in the dark, strange Uncle Gray. The most frightening evidence is that the previous au pair, Alice, attempted to lock herself into the room before vanishing.
As Melanie attempts to figure out what happened to Alice, a vision of the Davidson family is very frightening. Renshaw develops an atmosphere of eerie tension using minor hints and details from the first chapter. The readers wonder what the motives and the trustworthiness of the characters are as the twisting plot and well-timed revelations leave the reader in doubt about how honest the characters are.
The location of Davidson’s lodge enhances the tension and the mystery surrounding it. The world outside is shuttered out, and there is nowhere for Melanie to go as she frantically tries to uncover the truth before she meets the same end as Alice.
The Au Pair is a neatly constructed, dark, and menacingly gripping thriller that will keep readers flipping pages long into the night. This book is interesting and packed with appealing writing and many shocking surprises; this book will be very popular with mystery, suspense, and thriller fans.
Thank you to Inkubator Books, Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours, and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.
The Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards by Jessica Waite
5.0
In the Widow’s Guide to Dead Bastards, Jessica Waite portrays how she deals with her late husband’s secrets and his passing. In telling her story in its raw, unflinching form, Waite delves into the grief and betrayal and the difficulties of raising a child on your own. This lyrical and touching memoir has compelling appropriation of love, loss, and human spirit perseverance. I enjoyed this immensely, and I highly recommend it!
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book.
Down Down Deep by Christina Delay
5.0
Christina Delay’s novel “Down Down Deep” is a gripping psychological drama that pulls the readers into the troubled lives of its two very complex central characters. The story centers on Jesse David, a travel writer struggling with the worsening blackouts and also memories of her father’s death. When Jesse’s abusive mother insists on joining her on a cruise, the tensions rise, and then dark secrets begin to surface.
On board the cruise ship is director Gabriel Gutierrez, a man haunted by the guilt over past family tragedies. When Gabriel and Jesse cross paths, their painful histories intertwine. The past weighs down both and must confront the many buried truths before it’s too late.
Delay does an excellent job developing her flawed yet very sympathetic characters. As Jesse’s blackouts worsen, the tension becomes a lot too unbearable. The author deftly balances revealing backstory details with building suspense in the present-day drama.
The setting of the cruise ship proves an apt and claustrophobic backdrop, heightening the sense of inescapable secrets that Jesse and Gabriel carry. By the novel’s conclusion, the truth rises to the surface in an emotionally powerful climax.
With the themes of guilt, grief, and also the power of truth, “Down Down Deep” sucks the readers into its swirling dramatic depths. Delay has crafted an engaging, character-driven psychological thriller filled with intrigue. This fast-paced, compulsive read will keep you gripped until the final page.
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
On board the cruise ship is director Gabriel Gutierrez, a man haunted by the guilt over past family tragedies. When Gabriel and Jesse cross paths, their painful histories intertwine. The past weighs down both and must confront the many buried truths before it’s too late.
Delay does an excellent job developing her flawed yet very sympathetic characters. As Jesse’s blackouts worsen, the tension becomes a lot too unbearable. The author deftly balances revealing backstory details with building suspense in the present-day drama.
The setting of the cruise ship proves an apt and claustrophobic backdrop, heightening the sense of inescapable secrets that Jesse and Gabriel carry. By the novel’s conclusion, the truth rises to the surface in an emotionally powerful climax.
With the themes of guilt, grief, and also the power of truth, “Down Down Deep” sucks the readers into its swirling dramatic depths. Delay has crafted an engaging, character-driven psychological thriller filled with intrigue. This fast-paced, compulsive read will keep you gripped until the final page.
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
Only The Trees Know by Heather Hansen
4.0
Set off with the gripping promise of a group of high school friends embarking on a farewell camping trip where three of the four friends end up dead in mysterious circumstances. The only one who survived the tragedy could tell the story, but how credible is his story? Did anyone go there, and what happened to them in the great dark woods?
As the plot develops, we understand the intricate relations that make up the four friends and how these relations, at first holding them together and then slowly breaking apart. So much love, desire, and spiritual connection also lay beneath all the brewing tension, betrayal, and pain. This turns the mystery into the question of what happened on the trip.
How the narrative alternates between the friend's murder trial that is going on later on and the flashbacks that reveal more about each character and the group's shared past makes the pacing very tight and tense. From the moment we realize that there are present dangers in that remote forest, the mood becomes more and more unnerving before the deathly turn we are waiting for.
By the end, the truth comes out quite shockingly in witty revelations and surprises up to the final pages. This book will appeal to mystery and thriller enthusiasts looking for a character-driven psychological read discussing the various nuances of friendship and the tragedy it brings when the ties come apart. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
As the plot develops, we understand the intricate relations that make up the four friends and how these relations, at first holding them together and then slowly breaking apart. So much love, desire, and spiritual connection also lay beneath all the brewing tension, betrayal, and pain. This turns the mystery into the question of what happened on the trip.
How the narrative alternates between the friend's murder trial that is going on later on and the flashbacks that reveal more about each character and the group's shared past makes the pacing very tight and tense. From the moment we realize that there are present dangers in that remote forest, the mood becomes more and more unnerving before the deathly turn we are waiting for.
By the end, the truth comes out quite shockingly in witty revelations and surprises up to the final pages. This book will appeal to mystery and thriller enthusiasts looking for a character-driven psychological read discussing the various nuances of friendship and the tragedy it brings when the ties come apart. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
Almost Surely Dead by Amina Akhtar
4.0
In her new suspenseful book “Almost Surely Dead,” Akhtar weaves a complex tale of a woman whose life takes a terrifying turn. Dunia Ahmed is a very successful pharmacist living an ordinary life in New York City after the death of her mother and a broken engagement until she survives not one but multiple attempts on her life. At first, believing the worst is over after her would-be killer turns up dead, Dunia is launched back into danger again and again as more murder attempts follow.
As Dunia struggles to make sense of why someone is trying to kill her, old childhood superstitions start to permeate reality. She becomes convinced that some sinister force is stalking her, ratcheting the suspense. The police suspect someone close to Dunia may be responsible, but the truth remains tantalizingly out of reach for both Dunia and the reader.
Akhtar does an excellent job pacing the suspense and the mystery around Dunia’s disappearance. Side plots like Dunia’s family dynamics and background as the daughter of Pakistani immigrants, as well as the true-crime podcast covering her case, add many interesting dimensions without taking away from the main storyline. The superstitious elements provide a unique undercurrent in the story.
This book has many thrills and chills galore as you race to find out why someone wants Dunia dead and whether she will survive. The mysteries piled upon the secrets will keep readers gripped until the final pages. For fans of fast-paced suspense thrillers with intriguing characters, many twists, and a dash of culture. I got this book from Prime Reads.
I Remember Everything by Marnie Vinge
4.0
“I Remember Everything” is a psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing until the final pages. The story follows Stephanie Silkwood, who suffers a blow to the head and memory loss while vacationing on a luxury cruise ship in the Amazon with her husband, Steve, and also friends Colin and Leslie. Stephanie remembers seeing evidence that Colin may have embezzled the money from their shared business, but when she mentions this to Steve, he seems suspiciously disinterested.
As the boat ventures deeper and deeper into the jungle, the tensions escalate among the couples. Stephanie tries recovering memories that feel just out of reach, which is crucial to explaining who pushed her overboard and why. The dynamics between the characters continue to deteriorate as they take an overnight jungle excursion that pushes the relationships to their breaking point, with deadly consequences.
The exotic Amazon setting, full of dangers and intrigue, is the perfect backdrop for this tale of lies and betrayal. The story grabs the interest straight away, with Stephanie regaining consciousness after nearly drowning, then hooked by the mystery person who pushed her. The mounting tension between her and Steve over Colin’s potential crime and her struggles to recover the erased memories make it a quick, engaging read.
The narrative raises thought-provoking questions about friendship, marriage, and also trust. The relationships between the two couples are very complex and expertly drawn. When the readers think they have it figured out, a new twist throws everything into the question again. With rich descriptions of the South American landscape, this psychological thriller takes the readers on a ride they will remember. The climax is shocking yet very satisfying, living up to the story’s ominous title. Fans of the genre will surely add “I Remember Everything” to their favorites list. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
As the boat ventures deeper and deeper into the jungle, the tensions escalate among the couples. Stephanie tries recovering memories that feel just out of reach, which is crucial to explaining who pushed her overboard and why. The dynamics between the characters continue to deteriorate as they take an overnight jungle excursion that pushes the relationships to their breaking point, with deadly consequences.
The exotic Amazon setting, full of dangers and intrigue, is the perfect backdrop for this tale of lies and betrayal. The story grabs the interest straight away, with Stephanie regaining consciousness after nearly drowning, then hooked by the mystery person who pushed her. The mounting tension between her and Steve over Colin’s potential crime and her struggles to recover the erased memories make it a quick, engaging read.
The narrative raises thought-provoking questions about friendship, marriage, and also trust. The relationships between the two couples are very complex and expertly drawn. When the readers think they have it figured out, a new twist throws everything into the question again. With rich descriptions of the South American landscape, this psychological thriller takes the readers on a ride they will remember. The climax is shocking yet very satisfying, living up to the story’s ominous title. Fans of the genre will surely add “I Remember Everything” to their favorites list. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
I know Your Secret by J.M. O’Rourke
3.5
This psychological thriller starts with an intriguing premise – a woman with a long-held secret that is about to unravel. Amanda seems to have an ideal life, but discovering an ominous note on her car suggests someone knows a secret that could destroy everything. This sets up a story full of suspense and intrigue as Amanda desperately tries to figure out who is targeting her.
As the book progresses, the plot becomes very predictable and far-fetched. The “I Know Your Secret” is drawn out for too long without enough development of the backstory and side characters. Amanda’s escalating fear is very effectively conveyed at first but becomes repetitive. The final reveal of Amanda’s traumatic past feels very incomplete.
On the positive side, the writing flows very well, and the author does build a lot of tension surrounding the mystery person taunting Amanda. This delivers on some levels for all the readers who enjoy fast-paced psychological thrillers with complex female protagonists. Overall, it’s a moderately engaging read that falls short of being a stand-out in a crowded genre.
Thank you to Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours, Inkubator Books, and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.
As the book progresses, the plot becomes very predictable and far-fetched. The “I Know Your Secret” is drawn out for too long without enough development of the backstory and side characters. Amanda’s escalating fear is very effectively conveyed at first but becomes repetitive. The final reveal of Amanda’s traumatic past feels very incomplete.
On the positive side, the writing flows very well, and the author does build a lot of tension surrounding the mystery person taunting Amanda. This delivers on some levels for all the readers who enjoy fast-paced psychological thrillers with complex female protagonists. Overall, it’s a moderately engaging read that falls short of being a stand-out in a crowded genre.
Thank you to Zoé from ZooLoo’s Book Tours, Inkubator Books, and the author for allowing me to read and review this book.
The Queenslander by Glen Alva, Glen Alva
5.0
Rachel’s life has been a fair rollercoaster of woes, but her spirit to start all over is inspiring. In this compelling novel, the author masterfully develops a story of salvation, mental toughness, and the quest for normalcy. From the very first page, readers find themselves immersed in Rachel’s reality, hoping she succeeds on her hopeful yet uncertain journey.
The author presents Rachel’s broken family life, addiction problems, and mental disorders quite vividly and truthfully. The author is talented as he approaches these sensitive topics with great care and authenticity. There are no sugar-coated representations of Rachel’s struggles, but they are depicted in a way that allows readers to empathize with and understand her challenges.
The story takes a twist as Rachel moves to a small town and tries to be the perfect country wife. The author superbly establishes an atmosphere of dread, making readers wait with bated breath to discover what is behind Rachel’s disintegrating world. The story gradually builds suspense, keeping readers glued to their seats and guessing until the end.
The novel is also intriguing in exploring Rachel’s inner demons. The author deftly navigates the intricacies of mental illness, making it difficult to tell where reality ends and Rachel’s vision begins. This psychological aspect brings depth and interest to the story and makes it an exciting and thoughtful work.
The story is set in a small town that seems idyllic, but the writing is quite vivid, and the lives of the people there are brought alive. From the attractive houses to the close-knit community, readers can effortlessly imagine the world where Rachel is thrust. The author pays attention to details that make the reading experience very immersive as you feel like you are right there with Rachel, feeling her fears and uncertainties.
The plot takes many unexpected turns, with the reader constantly questioning the characters’ intentions around Rachel. Is the house trying to kill her? Is her sister scheming her marriage? Is Rachel’s mind fooling her? Such questions drive the story forward, allowing the readers to be constantly immersed and interested in finding the truth.
The Queenslander is a five-star masterpiece that blends redemption, mystery, and psychological suspense. This is an absolute must-read for fans of compelling, intelligent fiction with skillful storytelling, fully developed characters, and an immersive setting. Get ready to be spellbound from start to finish as you accompany Rachel in her ups and downs of emotions. I highly recommend this book!
Thank you to the author, and Booksirens for allowing me to read and review this book.
Lavender and Lies by Carly Winter
adventurous
funny
fast-paced
5.0
Samantha Jones, formerly a celebrated television star who has fled her past, sees quiet life in Heywood destroyed when her friend Gina is charged with the murder of her sadistic ex-husband. While everything about Gina suggests her guilt, Samantha is loyal to her friend and believes she is innocent, so she decides to find the real murderer.
Carly is adept at maintaining the book’s suspense with plot twists and red herrings that will puzzle any armchair detective. The characters are not simplistic; they are layered, too, each character smartly hiding motives and connections to the victim that are painfully uncovered one by one. The background is set in a small town and brings the picture alive, and each odd supporting character adds a new dimension to the character-driven mystery.
However, just as you’re ready to resign from your investigations, Carly delivers a stunning final revelation that she has pulled the rug from under your feet. The conclusion leaves a few hanging threads while maintaining the vibes of the lead characters for possible sequels. This cozy mystery reveals that the adage of not judging a book by its cover also applies to the people of the book. If you are looking for a clever, character-driven, heartwarming, and cozy novel, this book should be on your shelf.
Carly Winter has an immense talent for storytelling. So far, I have read three of her books and enjoyed every single one. I recommend it to all cozy lovers!
Carly is adept at maintaining the book’s suspense with plot twists and red herrings that will puzzle any armchair detective. The characters are not simplistic; they are layered, too, each character smartly hiding motives and connections to the victim that are painfully uncovered one by one. The background is set in a small town and brings the picture alive, and each odd supporting character adds a new dimension to the character-driven mystery.
However, just as you’re ready to resign from your investigations, Carly delivers a stunning final revelation that she has pulled the rug from under your feet. The conclusion leaves a few hanging threads while maintaining the vibes of the lead characters for possible sequels. This cozy mystery reveals that the adage of not judging a book by its cover also applies to the people of the book. If you are looking for a clever, character-driven, heartwarming, and cozy novel, this book should be on your shelf.
Carly Winter has an immense talent for storytelling. So far, I have read three of her books and enjoyed every single one. I recommend it to all cozy lovers!