Title: A Greenhouse Murder Author: Lilly Gibbs Location: Willowbrook Main Character: Lila, Detective Harper Other Characters: Sarah, Gerald Fitch, Caleb Fitch, Jack Harper, Maxwell Stone, Margaret Fielding,Vivial Pets: Ella Rating: 4
“Once More, the truth lies where the willow weeps, hidden by time and broken promises.”
Lilly Gibbs presents an engaging cozy mystery in A Greenhouse Murder, skillfully intertwining small-town secrets, unexpected betrayals, and a compelling sleuth to root for.
Journalist Lila Lawson plans a getaway to her friend Sarah’s B&B, which Sarah has just inherited from her aunt. Expecting a quiet retreat and much-needed girl time, Lila’s plans take a turn when they discover a dead body in the greenhouse, with Sarah becoming a suspect. This unexpected twist places Lila right in the middle of the investigation.
Lila is a compelling protagonist, but it’s her dog, Ella, who truly steals the show. The story guides readers through unexpected twists and turns as it unravels town secrets to reveal a killer. Despite being a short story, it offers a wealth of information without feeling rushed or overwhelming, making for a quick and engaging read.
Title: The Ex Wives Club Author: Sally Hepworth Series: The Alibis collection #2 Main Character: Anita, MJ, Rosie Other Characters: Ian, Daisy, Max Rating: 4
The Ex-Wives Club is an engaging novella that blends murder, mischief, and martinis into a captivating story. The premise is irresistible: three ex-wives of the same man gather at his restaurant every Friday night, until he is found dead in the freezer. What ensues is a rapid unraveling of secrets.
I enjoyed the premise of three women from different generations, all ex-wives of the same man. Each woman is full of personality, and the dynamics between them are both intriguing and humorous. The story employs alternating perspectives and clever interview snippets, which keep the pace engaging.
The only reason this didn’t receive a full five stars is that I craved more depth. The ending felt unsatisfactory, and I was hoping for a more rewarding resolution. While the story had a fantastic premise full of potential, I felt the conclusion ultimately fell flat.
Title: Misty Blue Malice Author: Emily Oberton Series: Hadley Home Designs #6 Location: Darlington Hills Main Character: Hadley Other Characters: Dennis, Aunt deb, Roy, Brady, Jana, Garth, Michael, Akari, Martha, Bernie, Fiona, Vivian Rating: 5
Emily Oberton has done it again with Misty Blue Malice, the sixth installment in the Hadley Home Design Cozy Mystery series. This five-star cozy mystery skillfully combines intrigue, small-town charm, and a touch of romance, captivating readers from start to finish with its expertly crafted plot and compelling characters.
Hadley Sutton, an interior designer turned amateur sleuth, is busy preparing for her aunt Deb’s wedding at Ladyvale Manor when a shocking poisoning at a pre-wedding celebration disrupts the festivities. Discovering that the poisoned wine glass was meant for someone else complicates the situation further. As she investigates the mystery, she begins to uncover a connection between this poisoning and her uncle’s mysterious drowning five years earlier.
What I enjoy most about this author is her ability to craft a story filled with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged and guessing until the very end. Just when I think I’ve figured it out, she introduces another twist that leaves me guessing again.
Misty Blue Malice is a must-read! If you love unpredictable plots filled with a captivating whodunit, hidden town secrets, a determined sleuth and a touch of romance, this book will keep you entertained and guessing until the very end.
This book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading it in order. Doing so will help you become familiar with the recurring characters and allow you to fall in love with them, just as I have. I am already looking forward to the next book.
I received this book as a member of the ARC team, and this review reflects my personal opinion.
Lakehouse Christmas is a heartwarming holiday tale that captures the magic of second chances and the power of healing. Set in the picturesque town of Hopeton, the story follows Rebecca Sims, a woman who has faced heartbreak and betrayal but discovers unexpected hope in the most unlikely places. It just goes to show that family can hurt you like no one else. The transformative power of friendship shines through, especially when friends become more like family.
Brice skillfully intertwines themes of resilience, friendship, and new beginnings, making this book a true delight for fans of cozy, feel-good romances. The characters are well-developed, and Rebecca’s journey offers emotional depth that is both relatable and inspiring. The snowy setting adds an enchanting touch, making it the ideal read for the holiday season.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It makes me wish I could move to Laurel Cove and experience the friendship that Rebecca shares. The picturesque scenery would certainly be an added bonus. If you’re seeking a novel that will warm your heart and rekindle your belief in the magic of Christmas, Lakehouse Christmas is a must-read!
Title: Lakehouse Dreams Author: Jodi Allen Brice Series: Laurel Cove #3 Location: Hopeton, NC Main Character: Sarah, Johnny Other Characters: Noah, Hannan, Carolina, Uncle Oliver Pets: PhoenixRating: 5
If you’re looking for a feel-good, small-town story with heart, Lakehouse Dreams by Jodi Allen Brice is a winner. Sarah is a character you can’t help but root for—she’s chasing her dream of becoming a singer. However, after her parents are killed in a plane crash, she is forced to return to her hometown of Hopeton, NC, to raise her younger brother and navigate her new life.
The book captivates you with its emotional moments while also remaining uplifting and filled with hope. Sarah’s struggles are relatable, from seeking fulfilling work to navigating her brother’s school challenges. The friendships she forms throughout her journey add depth to the story.
Brice’s writing flows beautifully, painting Hopeton, North Carolina, as a place you would want to visit. If you enjoy stories about family, resilience, and dreams that evolve in unexpected yet meaningful ways, Lakehouse Dreams is a must-read. It leaves you feeling warm and inspired—what more could you ask for?
Title: Every Little Thing Author: Kay Bratt Series: Hart’s Ridge #12 Location: Cabo San Luca, Mexico & Hart’s Ridge Main Character: Taylor, Lucy Other Characters: Sam, Cate, Ellis, Gia, Madison, Brady Rating: 4 stars
Every Little Thing is the twelfth installment in the Hart’s Ridge Series, which I have thoroughly enjoyed since the first book. This episode offers a captivating mix of suspense and emotional drama, making it an engaging read. However, although it contains strong moments, some elements could have been even more impactful.
In this book, we alternate between Taylor’s story of a kidnapping in Mexico and Lucy’s journey of self-discovery.
Taylor’s investigation in Mexico stands out as one of the book’s highlights, filled with intrigue and tension as she seeks to unravel the mystery of the missing bride and her friend. However, the resolution of the kidnapping storyline lacks impact. A more intense climax, featuring unexpected twists—such as a shocking revelation or a high-stakes rescue—could have heightened the suspense and provided a more gripping conclusion.
Lucy’s personal journey, while meaningful, did not engage me as much as the rest of the book. At times, her storyline felt disconnected, and its pacing didn’t align with the urgency of the central plot. A stronger link between her narrative and the primary mystery could have made her arc more compelling, but as it stood, I found myself less interested in Lucy’s story.
Despite these elements, Bratt’s storytelling and character development remain strong, making the novel a valuable addition to the Hart’s Ridge series. It is an engaging read with emotional depth. While some moments could have been more impactful, it still earns a solid four.
Other Characters: Phillip, George, Alexis, Kate, Bertram, Charles
Genre: Historical Tragedy
Rating: 5
I rarely reread a book but with the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic last month, I decided to reread a book that I read years ago. I remembered how much I enjoyed “No Greater Love” by Daniel Steel and how touching it was following a family after the aftermath of one of the biggest tragedies of the 20th century.
Danielle Steel’s “No Greater Love” is a timeless tale that encapsulates heartbreak, resilience, and the power of love and family. From the haunting tragedy of the Titanic to the enduring struggles of life after loss, Steel weaves a story that grips the reader’s emotions and leaves a lasting impression.
This story follows Edwina and her family as they board the Titanic for America. Excited about her upcoming wedding, Edwina shares the journey with her parents, fiancé, and five siblings, all happy to be heading home. However, they are unaware of the tragedy that awaits them. As the ship hits an iceberg and sinks, Edwina’s parents and fiance go down with the ship, leaving her to raise her five younger siblings alone. Her life is about to change forever. Steel portrays Edwina as a strong heroine who takes on the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings while also trying to manage the family’s newspaper business. The narrative delves into the experiences of the survivors of the Titanic tragedy, highlighting the complexities of grief, sacrifice, and the unwavering determination required to keep a fractured family united.
Each character is vividly portrayed, adding depth to the story. From the ambitious brother Philip to the rebellious sister Alexis, Steel explores the complexities of familial bonds and personal struggles. Edwina’s journey of self-discovery and her efforts to embrace love again are both inspiring and profoundly moving.
Steel’s prose is both elegant and evocative, skillfully painting scenes rich in detail and emotion. The historical backdrop of the Titanic disaster adds a compelling layer, while the challenges faced by Edwina and her family are both relatable and deeply moving.
“No Greater Love” is more than a novel; it is a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of love. Steel’s ability to convey the heartbreak and hope inherent in life’s trials makes this book a must-read for fans of emotional, character-driven stories.
Title: Lakehouse Secrets Author: Jodi Allen Brice Series: Laurel Cove #2 Location: Hopeton Main Character: Hannah Other Characters: Carolina. Alex, Albert, Terri, Fred, Gregory, Betty Pets: Phoenix Rating: 5
Jodi Allen Brice’s Lakehouse Secrets is a captivating mix of heartfelt storytelling and suspense that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The story centers on Hannah Reece, who is navigating her first Christmas without her late husband, James. Her world is turned upside down when she receives an anonymous letter accusing him of embezzlement.
Brice’s writing shines as she crafts a tale of mystery, friendship, and self-discovery. Hannah’s determination to uncover the truth, aided by her friend Carolina, is both inspiring and relatable. I admire Hannah’s determination to uncover the truth while also wanting to safeguard her grown children’s memories of their father. Hannah is both relatable and refreshingly honest, and her emotional journey is as captivating as the mystery she uncovers.
The small-town setting of Laurel Cove provides a cozy yet intriguing backdrop, making the story immersive and vivid.
The themes of resilience, courage, and complex relationships are beautifully explored, leaving readers with a sense of hope and admiration for the characters. Brice’s skill in balancing emotional depth with a gripping plot makes Lakehouse Secrets a standout read.
This is ideal for fans of second chances, and heartwarming stories infused with a touch of intrigue. I couldn’t put it down, and I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series!
If you’ve read this book, please share your thoughts in the comments.
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you. ~Matthew 5:44
I was engrossed by this book from the very start. Carolina’s ex-husband infuriated me with his treatment of her, and then her ex-mother-in-law entered the scene, intensifying my anger. I couldn’t put the book down, eager to see what would happen next and how Carolina would navigate the challenges thrown her way.
Jodi Allen Brice’s Lakehouse Promises is a beautifully crafted story that captures the essence of starting over and discovering strength in adversity. The protagonist, Carolina Johnson, is both relatable and inspiring as she faces the challenges of rebuilding her life following a devastating betrayal.
Carolina faces her greatest challenge when she discovers that her husband is having an affair with a woman nearly half his age, who is also pregnant. The situation becomes even more painful when she realizes that her so-called friends were already aware of this and chose not to tell her. In her forties, she is having to start over. She receives the Lakehouse as part of the divorce, prompting her move there to start fresh. With minimal funds and having not worked in nearly 20 years, she now faces the challenge of finding a job. To complicate things further, the Lakehouse is uninhabitable, so she must find a way to transform it into a home.
I admire Carolina’s resilience and determination. She works tirelessly to overcome obstacles and seeks to make her life meaningful. As she builds friendships in her new hometown, she discovers the true essence of friendship.
Laurel Cove provides a cozy and picturesque backdrop for Carolina’s journey, immersing readers in the charm of small-town life. The characters, including Carolina’s difficult neighbor and her outrageously rude former mother-in-law, are vividly portrayed, adding depth to the narrative.
Brice’s storytelling excels as she delves into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the necessity of releasing bitterness to embrace happiness. The emotional depth and relatable challenges make this book essential for anyone who enjoys tales of second chances and personal growth.
This story is about starting over, overcoming obstacles and learning the true meaning of friendship. If you enjoy heartfelt contemporary fiction that explores themes of starting over and self-discovery, I highly recommend this uplifting story of transformation.
My favorite quotes from the book:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” ~Phillipians 4:6
“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you. ~Matthew 5:44 ”
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.” ~James 1:5
Title: Coastal Candlelight Author: Kay Correll Series: Magnolia Key #3 Location: Magnolia Key, FL Main Character: Amanda & Connon Other Characters: Beverly, Miss Eleanor, Megan, Brooklyn Rating: 5
The third book in the Magnolia Key series does not disappoint. Set in the charming town of Magnolia Key, it skillfully blends romance, self-discovery, and the warmth of small-town life.
This story follows Amanda as she transitions from a high-pressure career to a more meaningful and slower-paced life, making her journey both relatable and inspiring. Her participation in the Magnolia Heritage Festival strengthens her connection to the community, and her evolving relationship with the quiet yet talented woodcarver, Connor, is beautifully depicted. Their connection develops organically, marked by moments of tenderness and tension that keeps the reader engaged.
The author has a unique ability to describe settings that draw you into the story. This is a story about second chances and the journey to find a place where you can belong and discover your true identity, providing readers with a satisfying and uplifting experience.
If you enjoy feel-good romances that explore second chances, self-discovery, and small-town charm, you’ll love this book. Even though this series can be read out of order, I recommend reading it in sequence to become familiar with the recurring characters.
Please share your thoughts in the comments if you’ve read this book.
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