Tag: Fiction

Fiction, Mystery

Luck of the Devil by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Luck of the Devil
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Series: Harper Adams Mystery #3
Location: Arkansas
Main Character: Harper Adams & James Malcolm
Other Characters: Paul Adams, Hanna, Harper’s grandparents, Carter
Rating: 5

Luck of the Devil is the third installment in the Harper Adams Mystery series. Like the first two books, it offers a compelling mix of suspense and emotion, making it difficult to put down.

Despite her flaws, former detective Harper Adams is a protagonist readers can’t help but root for. In this installment, she struggles with her sobriety after her mother’s suspicious death. The reader embarks on a tense, thrilling journey filled with determination, grief, and danger. Harper’s relentless pursuit of the truth, regardless of the potential cost, adds depth and complexity to her character, making her journey both intriguing and engaging. The scene is shrouded in suspicion, featuring faded skid marks, a packed suitcase, and a toxicology report that doesn’t add up. This mystery series is truly addictive.

The chemistry between Harper and Malcolm, a crime boss turned tavern owner whom she reluctantly trusts, is magnetic. Their dynamic is electrifying and complex; he acts as her protector while also being a wildcard, and she confronts her inner turmoil with unwavering determination. I loved their dialogue and the interactions between these two characters, and I can’t wait to see where their story leads in future books in the series.

If you love a mystery with a flawed complicated but interesting protagonist, slow burn romance, with twists and turns to solve a mystery, you are going to fall in love with this series.

Reasons for my five-star rating of this book…

  • Harper experiences profound emotional depth and growth as she navigates her sobriety following the suspicious death of her mother.
  • The unforgettable slow-burn dynamic between Harper and Malcolm.
  • The characters are authentic; they are flawed yet very interesting, making it impossible for the reader not to root for them.
  • A true page-turner, this book was difficult to put down once I started reading it.
  • Harper and Malcolm navigate the twists and turns of the mystery surrounding Harper’s mother’s death, all while uncovering the true nature of their relationship.

If you have read this book, please share your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Mystery

Long Gone by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Long Gone
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Series: Harper Adams Mystery #2
Location: Jackson Creek, Arkansas
Main Character: Harper Adams
Other Characters: James Malcolm, Clarice, Anton, Brett Colter, Skip Martin, Carter Hale, Paul Adams
Rating: 5

“I’m a daydream dressed as a nightmare.”

Long Gone, the second installment of the Harper Adams mystery series, draws readers back into Harper’s world, now filled with heightened emotion and expertly crafted pacing. Set in the small town of Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the story reveals its secrets in vivid detail, as Swank skillfully weaves tension into a mystery that’s impossible to put down.

Harper is a complex and determined protagonist, despite her flaws. Her journey from disgrace to the heart of investigative grit captivates readers. Harper’s internal struggles and relentless pursuit of truth make her a compelling character with grit and determination.

The plot draws you in from the very first page.. Five years ago, Hugo disappeared without a trace, and now his wife seeks to have him declared dead for closure and to collect his life insurance. She hires Harper to investigate her husband’s disappearance. What begins as a simple case quickly evolves into a complex and unexpected narrative. Swank skillfully reveals clues, introduces red herrings, and crafts an atmosphere of uncertainty, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

The supporting characters are equally captivating. The return of James Malcolm, the reformed crime boss turned tavern owner, is a welcome addition. Harper struggles to trust Malcolm, yet something about him draws her in. The reader feels the same attraction and can’t help but root for both him and Harper. I’m anxious to see where this leads.

This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and her storytelling has already captivated me. She skillfully balances suspense, pacing, and character development in her writing. I can’t wait to dive into the third book in the series to discover what Harper and Malcolm will investigate next.

If you enjoy a small-town mystery featuring a flawed but captivating protagonist, an engaging plot, and emotional depth, you’ll love this series.

Happy Reading!

Fiction, Mystery

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank

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Title: Little Girl Vanished
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Series: Harper Adams Mystery #1
Location: Jackson Creek, Arkansas
Main Character: Harper
Other Characters: Louise, Malcome, Nate, Drew, Ava, Vanessa, T.J., Sarah Jane, Hale, David
Rating: 5

This is the first book in the Harper Adams Mystery series and my first read by this author, but it certainly won’t be my last. This book has all the elements of a compelling mystery: it is beautifully written and expertly crafted, delivering an emotional punch. I was kept on the edge of my seat until the final word, thanks to its witty dialogue, well-developed characters, and engaging storyline. The narrative includes sweet moments, thrilling action, danger, family drama, painful pasts, mystery, plot twists, and imperfect characters filled with secrets and missteps, all interspersed with laughs and deep emotions.

Harper Adams has returned to her hometown of Jackson Creek and is currently living in her parents’ garage apartment. She is trying to determine her next steps after losing her job at the Little Rock Police Department. When the daughter of her sister’s childhood friend goes missing, it stirs up unpleasant memories from Harper’s past. The local police dismiss it as a runaway case, but Harper’s instincts tell her that this child has been kidnapped, and she is determined to find her.

Harper teams up with James Malcolm, the former crime boss who serves as the perfect foil—morally gray, resourceful, and unexpectedly sympathetic. Their reluctant alliance adds a captivating tension to the story.

If you love a captivating mystery filled with twists and turns that lead to a surprising conclusion, I highly recommend this book. You won’t be disappointed. It exemplifies how a great mystery should be crafted. I literally couldn’t put it down. With its twists and turns, it kept me guessing from start to finish. I have already downloaded the second book to find out what Harper’s next mystery will be.

Please share your thoughts in the comments if you’ve read this book.

Happy Reading!

Classic, Fiction

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

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Title: To Kill a Mockingbird
Author: Harper Lee
Location: Maycomb, Alabama
Main Character: Atticus, Scout, Jen, Dill, Boo Radley, Tom Robinson, Calpurnia
Rating: 5

“Mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy. They don’t eat up people’s gardens, don’t nest in corncribs, they don’t do one thing but sing their hearts out for us. That’s why it’s a sin to kill a mockingbird.” – Miss Maudie

To Kill a Mockingbird  by Harper Lee is one of  my all-time favorite books; It is a masterclass in storytelling, seamlessly blending moral clarity with emotional depth. Set in the racially charged town of Maycomb, Alabama, the novel follows young Scout Finch as she navigates the complexities of childhood innocence amid injustice and prejudice.

Harper Lee’s prose is deceptively simple yet profoundly moving. Through Scout’s perspective, readers witness the quiet heroism of Atticus Finch, whose defense of Tom Robinson serves as a powerful statement on integrity and empathy. The characters are richly developed, particularly the resilient women—Scout, Calpurnia, and the elusive Boo Radley—each adding layers to the story’s emotional impact.

What makes this novel unforgettable is its ability to confront difficult truths while maintaining a sense of hope. It’s not just a book; it’s a mirror held up to society, urging us to strive for improvement.

A timeless classic that truly deserves its acclaim.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Mystery, Women's Fiction

Now & Then by Kay Bratt

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Title: Now & Then
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #13
Location: Indiana & Hart’s Ridge
Main Character: Taylor, Sam, Anna
Other Characters: Janelle, Clem, Ed, Julie, Shelly, Thatcher, Jack, Rosana, Vernelle, Kelsey, Pete
Rating: 5

I have loved this series and its characters since the very first book, and this episode is no exception. Now and Then is the 13th installment of the Hart’s Ridge series.

This book swept me back into the world of Hart’s Ridge with the emotional depth I’ve come to expect from Kay Bratt. Taylor’s transition into private investigations felt seamless, and her pursuit of justice in a long-buried case was compelling and intricately layered. The pacing kept me engaged without feeling rushed, and I appreciated the gradual unveiling of twists that were both surprising and well-earned.

Janelle is Sam’s aunt, and her husband was convicted of murder ten years ago. She is convinced of his innocence and believes he did not commit this heinous crime. Recently, Sam and his wife Taylor have launched their private investigation business, and Janelle seeks their help to prove her husband’s innocence and uncover the real killer. The story takes several twists and turns as they work to determine whether Clem truly committed the crime.

In a subplot, we revisit Taylor’s sister, Anna. Since her divorce, Anna has faced numerous challenges and has worked diligently to rebuild her life for herself and her children. Her storyline adds tension and emotional depth to the narrative. Her determination to clear her name amid complicated accusations—especially those tied to her ex-husband’s powerful family—is compelling. I admire her resilience and the quiet strength she consistently demonstrates.

Kay Bratt excels at creating compelling female leads who balance vulnerability with determination. I appreciate the recurring family themes, emphasizing that even in difficult times, family always comes first and stays united. I couldn’t put this book down and stayed up late to finish it.

This book reminded me why I keep returning to this series: its emotional depth, compelling storytelling, and unwavering sense of justice. I highly recommend this installment to anyone who enjoys a mystery with heart.

Although this series can be read in out of order, I highly recommend beginning with book one so you can get to know the characters and their backstories.

Anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery featuring a strong female lead, brimming with heart and determination, will love this series.

Most of Ms. Bratt’s stories are inspired by real-life events, so be sure to read the end to discover the true experiences that this book is based on.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Murder, Music & Mischief by Greta Sinclair

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Title: Murder, Music & Mischief
Author: Greta Sinclair
Series: Hattie & Moose Cozy Mystery
Location: Nashville, TN
Main Character: Hattie
Other Characters: Gracie, Ruby Dean, Detective Bo, Velma, Lyle, Toby, Nico, Xavier, Laney
Pets: Moose the Chow, Cecil the Cat & a Yorkie named Minnie Pearl
Rating: 5

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and it certainly won’t be the last. I chose it because it is set in Nashville, Tennessee, a city I know well.

This book is a charming cozy mystery that surpassed my expectations! From the very first page, I was drawn in by the Nashville setting, the quirky and lovable characters, and a plot that kept me guessing until the end. Sinclair’s writing is witty and engaging, perfectly balancing humor, suspense, and just the right amount of mischief.

Hattie, a private investigator in Nashville, lives above a country bar called The Crooked Note. One night, she and her friend Gracie go to hear their favorite country artist perform, but the evening takes a deadly turn. As soon as Ruby Dean steps up to the microphone, she collapses and dies. The autopsy reveals that she was poisoned, making Gracie the prime suspect. Determined to clear her friend’s name, Hattie teams up with the local detective to uncover the truth behind Ruby’s murder and discover who would want to kill the country star.

This book offered all the elements I love in a cozy mystery: engaging characters, a fun protagonist, a charming detective, a loyal best friend, a touch of humor, a hint of romance, a captivating mystery that keeps readers guessing, and, of course, pets. I especially adored Moose, the dog, as I always enjoy when a canine character is included in the story.

If you enjoy clever whodunits filled with humor and heart, along with witty pets, you’ll love Murder, Music & Mischief. I can’t wait to read more from Greta Sinclair!

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

A Final Brush With Murder by Daisy Belle

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Title: A Final Brush With Murder
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Peak’s Point Cozy Mystery Club
Location: Peak’s Point
Main Character: Fiona
Other Characters: Ursula, Brenda, Iris, Sherrif Jack, Nathaniel, Harold, Tom, Martha, Eliza, Martin, Cooper
Pets: Pip & Watson
Rating: 4

“If it’s in cursive and tied with ribbon, it’s probably important.”

Daisy Belle offers another delightful installment in her Peak’s Point Cozy Mystery Club series with A Final Brush with Murder. In this second book, readers are immersed in a quaint town filled with secrets, intriguing clues, and a heartfelt heroine determined to uncover the truth.

Fiona’s latest sleuthing adventure blends quaint charm with keen intuition. When she joins a new calligraphy class and her instructor is found dead, Fiona—accompanied by her loyal dogs Watson and Pip—must navigate yarn-themed clues, cryptic notes, and gossip-laden suspects to unravel the latest murder mystery in Peak’s Point.

The author captures the charm of small-town life, featuring quirky residents and a slow-burning romance with Sheriff Jack. Although some twists felt predictable and the pacing lagged in the middle, the emotional warmth and playful tone more than compensate for these flaws. I particularly enjoyed the dog’s antics, especially those of Pip. For me, dogs always enhance the enjoyment of a cozy mystery.

If you love slow-burn, small-town cozy mysteries that feature crafting, loyal dogs, friendships, and a resourceful heroine who knits her way to the truth, then you’ll enjoy this series.

“The answer lies where the past crumbles into ash, where the old meets the discarded.”

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Mystery

Murder Served Cold by Daisy Belle

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Title: Murder Served Cold
Author: Daisy Belle
Series: Chloe Lane Cozy Myster
Location: Bramble Dale
Main Character: Chloe Lane
Other Characters: Rosie, Aiden, Greg, Detective Daniels, Detective Owens, Officer Wu, Brooklyn, Miranda, Tessa, Leo, Dani, Nadia, Olivia, Chief Kim, Benji, Luisa
Pets: Peanut, Chloe’s faithful Labrador Retriever
Rating: 5

I have loved this series since the very first book, and “Murder Served Cold” is no exception. The mix of cooking competition drama and murder mystery creates a captivating blend of “Bake Off” and amateur sleuthing, drawing me in from the very first page.

Rosie is both excited and a bit nervous about entering the baking competition. Imagine her surprise when the judge tastes her dish and suddenly collapses dead! Naturally, Rosie becomes the main suspect. Will her boyfriend, Detective Daniels, along with the help of Chloe and her loyal Labrador, Peanut, be able to prove her innocence?

Chloe Lane is the perfect protagonist: intelligent, witty, and unafraid to plunge into trouble when her best friend is named the prime suspect in a suspicious death. And who doesn’t love a dog at the heart of a mystery? Peanut, her loyal Labrador, has more personality than most of the contestants in that kitchen!

I love the small-town vibe of Bramble Dale. The suspects were intriguing enough to keep me guessing, and I particularly enjoyed the friendships and the lengths to which the characters would go to protect one another. The pacing was steady, and I appreciated how all the elements came together seamlessly without feeling forced. The story delivers a well-balanced blend of mystery, friendship, and a dash of humor.

I recommend this book if you enjoy cozy mysteries filled with quirky characters and a dash of culinary chaos. I can’t wait to see what adventures Chloe and Peanut embark on next!

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, DNF, Fiction

Delicious & Suspicious by Riley Adams

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Title: Delicious & Suspicios
Author: Riley Author
Series: Memphis BBQ Mystery
Location: Memphis, TN (My hometown)
Rating: 2

I am attempting something that I never do: writing a review of a book I couldn’t finish. I had hoped to enjoy it, but despite my efforts, I found it impossible to do so.

Since this book is set in my hometown, I picked up Delicious and Suspicious in hopes of finding a cozy mystery that would reflect the essence of the Memphis I grew up in. However, The pacing was slow, and the story lacked a smooth flow, making it difficult to stay engaged. While the setting evoked a nostalgic version of Memphis—possibly reminiscent of the 60s or 70s—it did not accurately reflect the city I know today. Memphis has evolved and is no longer the same city I grew up in, and that complexity was absent from the narrative.

I found myself frequently flipping back through the pages, struggling to remember who each character was. There were so many that I felt I needed a character guide just to keep track.

It was disheartening to feel so disconnected from a city that I expected to resonate with me. Sometimes a book just doesn’t connect, and this one lacked the charm and intrigue I had hoped for.

I made a strong effort to enjoy this book and continued reading in hopes that it would improve. However, I ultimately couldn’t finish it, as it failed to engage me or offer enough charm to keep my interest.

If you have read this book, I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

The Judge’s Murder by Amy Muir

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Title: The Judge’s MurderAuthor: Amy Muir
Series: A Bayview Bookstore Cozy Mystery #2
Location: Bayview
Main Character: Andrea
Other Characters: Wes, Els, Kenny, Joe,Margaret, Judge Stanholt,Mary Stanholt, Mrs Finch, Paul
Pets: Bob the Parrot
Rating: 4

The Judge’s Murder is the second installment of the Bayview Bookstore series and it is the first book I have read by this author. Amy Muir delivers a delightful cozy mystery filled with twists, quirky characters, and a protagonist you will love and her Psychic Parrot, Bob, adds some humor to the story.

The Judge’s Murder is the second installment of the Bayview Bookstore series and my first book by this author. Amy Muir crafts a charming cozy mystery packed with twists, quirky characters, and a lovable protagonist. Her Psychic Parrot, Bob, brings an added touch of humor to the narrative.

I have never come across a book that includes a parrot in its narrative, so I found Bob to be a delightful addition. Bob is Andrea’s psychic parrot with a caffeine habit, offering both comic relief and unexpected wisdom. His quirky antics help ease the tension just when the plot starts to get murky.

I rated this book a four because, although the mystery is engaging, some clues seem rushed in the final reveal, leaving the ending feeling somewhat flat.

Overall I found this book to be an engaging, lighthearted mystery filled with heart and humor. Fans of small-town sleuths, bookstore charm, and feathered sidekicks will find this installment worth reading.

*** Disclaimer: This post includes links to Amazon; however, I am not a member of the Amazon affiliate program and do not earn any commission. I simply want to share the books I review with you.***

Happy Reading