Heads You Win by Jeffrey Archer

Description from Goodreads:

"Leningrad, Russia, 1968. 

From an early age it is clear that Alexander Karpenko is destined to lead his countrymen. But when his father is assassinated by the KGB for defying the state, Alexander and his mother will have to escape Russia if they hope to survive. At the docks, they have an irreversible choice: board a container ship bound for America or one bound for Great Britain. Alexander leaves the choice to a toss of a coin . . .

In a single moment, a double twist decides Alexander’s future. During an epic tale, spanning two continents and thirty years, we follow Alexander through triumph and defeat as he sets out on parallel lives, as Alex in New York and Sasha in London. As this unique story unfolds, both come to realize that to find their destiny they must face the past they left behind as Alexander in Russia."

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Heads you win

I haven't picked up a Jeffrey Archer book since reading Kane and Abel years ago. I absolutely loved that one, so I'm not sure why this has been sat on my virtual shelf gathering digital dust since 2018! I'm really glad I finally got around to it though.

The story starts in 1960's Russia with Alexander Karpenko. After a family tragedy, he has to make a split-second decision at the docks: board a ship to America or one to the UK. Archer does something really clever by showing us both lives playing out in alternating chapters. We follow Alex in New York and Sasha in London. It could've been confusing, but it’s handled well enough that I always knew which version of the story I was in.

It’s a proper "what if" tale. Both versions of his life are full of the political and business drama you’d expect from this author. I found myself rooting for both characters, even though they’re technically the same person. It’s a bit of a chunky read, but the pace is good and I zipped through it quickly once I got into the rhythm.

The ending is definitely going to be a talking point. I won’t give anything away, but it’s one of those that makes you want to go back and look for clues you might've missed. While some parts felt a bit far-fetched, it didn't take away from the journey. It reminded me why I liked his writing in the first place - he really knows how to tell a story that keeps you turning pages. 

Huge thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and share my thoughts of this book.

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No Way Out (Josie Chapman #2) by Max Connor; Neil Lancaster

Description from Goodreads:

"For her latest mission, British Intelligence operative Josie Chapman lands in California. Beneath the sun-soaked boulevards and rolling hills lurks a sprawling network of organised crime.

Posing as a climbing instructor, Josie infiltrates the operation and uncovers the staggering extent of its power and corruption. At its core is Franco Tondino, ruthless crime boss known as ‘The Director’, whose influence snakes through every level of authority, from local police to high-ranking officials.

How much is Josie willing to sacrifice to outwit a criminal empire that stops at nothing to protect its secrets? While failure means certain ruin, success could come at a devastating cost…"

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An absolute cracker of a thriller

I absolutely love reading Neil Lancaster's Max Craigie series, so when I saw that this one was written under his pseudonym of Max Connor, there was no way I was going to miss out. Once again, he really doesn't disappoint.

I actually haven't read the first book in this Josie Chapman series – I'm really not sure how or why that managed to pass me by – but I don't think it affected my enjoyment or understanding of this one at all. It works perfectly well as a standalone, though it has definitely made me want to go back and grab the first one.

Josie is a brilliant main character and I took to her straight away. She's incredibly well-drawn, stubborn and easy to root for. She's brave but reckless meaning some of the decisions she makes are questionable but I like her.  The rest of the cast are just as good, with fantastic dynamics and I'm really looking forward to getting to know them all a bit more as the series progresses.

The plot itself is quite a disturbing story, dealing with some heavy themes, but unfortunately it's an all too familiar one in this day and age. It's handled really well, with loads action and tension. I was completely hooked from the start and couldn't put it down.

I loved it and I already can't wait for the next instalment. I can easily see this becoming just as good a series as the Max Craigie books. If you enjoy a gritty, fast-paced thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, you'll definitely want to add this to your list. 

A huge thank you to the author, HQ and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this excellent book.

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Exit by Belinda Bauer

Description from Goodreads:

"IT WAS NEVER SUPPOSED TO BE MURDER ...Pensioner Felix Pink is about to find out that it’s never too late ... for life to go horribly wrong.

When Felix lets himself in to Number 3 Black Lane, he’s there to perform an act of kindness and charity: to keep a dying man company as he takes his final breath ... But just fifteen minutes later Felix is on the run from the police – after making the biggest mistake of his life.

Now his routine world is turned upside down as he tries to discover what went wrong, while staying one step ahead of the law."

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A quirky and surprisingly heart-warming mystery

It’s such a good feeling to finally clear some space on my Kindle! I’ve had this one sitting in my to-be-read collection gathering way too much dust since 2021, but I’m really glad I finally made the time for it. Exit is such an unusual and refreshing take on a crime novel.

The story follows Felix, a seventy-five-year-old man who belongs to a group called the Exiteers, who sit with terminally ill people to make sure they aren't alone when they pass away. Things go horribly wrong during one of his visits, and suddenly Felix is on the run, convinced he’s committed a crime. It sounds quite dark, but it’s actually surprisingly funny and very moving in places.

I absolutely loved Felix as a character. He’s so well-drawn and endearing, and his perspective on the world brought a lot of heart to the story. The mystery itself is clever, but what really kept me reading was the mix of quirky humour and the more poignant moments. It’s not your typical gritty thriller, which I found really refreshing.

The only reason it’s not a full five stars for me is that the middle part of the book felt a little bit drawn out, and there were a couple of subplots that didn't feel quite as tight as the main story. However, it’s a very clever, compassionate and entertaining read that I’d definitely recommend if you want a mystery with a bit of a difference. 

Many thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts.

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Burning Secrets by Michelle Dunne

Description from Publisher:

"There was no point in telling them about the others. Not when it was already too late. Or at least, it would be by the time they found them.

The world discounted Sadie Kingston years ago, right around the time her parents died. They think she’s crazy, but actually, she’s one of the chosen few.

Sadie can see peoples’ demons you see. They glow in different colours, all around the person they torment. Some are mild and sad – teal, green, yellow – while others are filled with rage and pain – red. Always red.

But as Sadie tries to survive in a world that won’t listen, she knows there will come a time when she’ll be forced to act. If the people around her won’t wake up and see what’s happening under their noses, then it will fall to her to show them the truth…"

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A slow burn that didn't quite catch fire

I was really looking forward to sinking my teeth into this one because I read The Good Girl by Michelle Dunne earlier this year and absolutely loved it. That book had me completely hooked from the start, so I had high hopes for Burning Secrets. Sadly, it just didn't grip me in the same way and it felt like a bit of a struggle to get through at times.

The premise sounded brilliant and there is no denying that the author knows how to set a dark, atmospheric scene. It starts off with plenty of promise, but the pacing just felt far too slow for my liking. I kept waiting for that big spark to kick things into high gear but the tension seemed to fizzle out rather than build up.

I think part of the issue for me was that I struggled to really connect with the characters. When a thriller relies heavily on secrets and lies, you need to feel invested in the people keeping them, but I just found myself feeling a bit detached from it all. It is definitely a slow burn, which I know lots of readers enjoy, but I prefer a plot that moves at a slightly nippier pace.

It is by no means a bad book and the writing itself is very good, but after enjoying her previous work so much, this one was a bit of a let-down for me. If you prefer psychological thrillers that take their time unfolding, then this might be right up your street, but it just wasn't quite my cup of tea.

Many thanks to the author, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this book.

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Macbeth by Jo Nesbo

Description from Goodreads:

"Set in a dark, rainy northern town, Nesbo's Macbeth pits the ambitions of a corrupt policeman against loyal colleagues, a drug-depraved underworld and the pull of childhood friendships."

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A gritty take on a classic

I've had this book sitting on my to-be-read pile since 2018 and I'm slowly, slowly getting through it! This is part of the Hogarth Shakespeare series where modern authors re-imagine the classics, and Jo Nesbo’s choice of Macbeth felt like a perfect match for his usual dark, noir style.

The setting is a rain-soaked, crumbling industrial town in the 1970's which really works for the atmosphere. Instead of kings and thistles, we've got corrupt police forces, drug lords and SWAT teams. Macbeth himself is the head of a tactical unit and Lady is a casino owner. It's definitely a clever way to translate the original power struggles into a world of crime and addiction.

However, I found it a bit of a slog in places. At over 500 pages, it feels far too long for the story it's trying to tell. While I liked the gritty vibe, the pacing often dipped and I found myself losing interest during some of the more drawn-out descriptions. It captures the "darkness" well, but it doesn't quite have the emotional punch or tight suspense I was expecting.

It’s a decent enough read if you’re a fan of the author or if you're interested in Shakespearean re-tellings, but it didn't quite blow me away. It does what it says on the tin - a dark, rainy crime thriller - but it lacks that special something to make it truly memorable for me.

Huge thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this book.

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The Girl with Two Names by Imogen Matthews

Description from Goodreads:

"She smooths her light blue coat with trembling hands as a man approaches. ‘Felix?’ he says, and she nods. ‘We weren’t expecting a girl.’ He smiles, but panic grips her throat at what he says next. ‘Whoever you are, you’ve been betrayed…’

1943, Nazi-occupied Holland. Turning up her collar against the wind, Trix prepares for her rendezvous. Hidden in the bottom of her bag are coded instructions from the British Special Operations Executive and a silk handkerchief, secretly printed with a map of her next meeting point. She knows working for the Dutch resistance is dangerous, but she must put her past behind her and become someone new… someone brave.

Trix’s friends think she’s a secretary – they can never know the truth. Living a double life is desperately lonely, but the longer she goes under her alias, Felix, the more comfortable she becomes with this new version of one who will stand up for what is right, and fight for those who can’t. That is, until the warm brown eyes of a pilot from her past spark hope for a life after the war.

But when she’s ambushed and imprisoned by German soldiers posing as men from the Dutch resistance, Trix must lean on everything she’s learnt if she’s going to survive and grasp her chance at love. 

These soldiers see her as just a woman. But is that her greatest weapon? In war, often it’s those we underestimate the most who have the power to change everything…"

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An incredibly compelling story 

I've been a huge fan of Imogen Matthews for quite a while now, so I always look forward to diving into her historical fiction.  I knew I was in for something special and I wasn't disappointed.  This book is grounded heavily in facts and inspired by the remarkable true story of a real woman, which made the entire reading experience feel so much more poignant.

The story follows Trix, a former KLM flight attendant who decides she can't just sit back and accept the Nazi occupation. She joins the resistance as a courier and secretary before training in Britain with the Special Operations Executive, taking on the dangerous alias of Felix. It's an incredibly intense setup and knowing that Trix was a real person navigating these terrifying risks made it all the more gripping.  When she's ambushed by German soldiers posing as the resistance, the tension peaks and you genuinely feel the isolation and danger of her double life.

What really set this book apart for me was the sheer scope of Trix's journey and how much she had to endure. The second half of the book gets heavy as the story follows her through the horrors of Ravensbrück and Mauthausen concentration camps. It's a difficult read at times but the focus remains on the human spirit, showing how these women pulled together to survive. 

If you love well-researched World War Two fiction that shines a light on real-life bravery and the power of hope in the darkest places, you  need to add this to your list. It's a gripping, emotional and unforgettable tribute to an extraordinary woman.

Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this remarkable story.

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This Weekend Doesn't End Well For Anyone by Catherine Mack

Description from Goodreads:

"Eleanor Dash can never catch a break. Not only has she had to solve two real-life murder plots in the past year, but both times it was when she was meant to be on vacation. Now she’s finally got a ticket to a relaxing weekend—an all-inclusive resort at the Bahamas where she’s speaking at a conference for murder mystery writers—but she arrives to find a body on the floor of her hotel room. Because of course she does.

With plenty of familiar faces at the resort, any one of them could have been the intended target or the culprit behind it all. Was it Oliver Forrest, Eleanor’s dashing boyfriend who’s in danger of getting dropped by his publisher because his sales are dwindling? Or Connor Smith, Eleanor’s infuriating ex-lover-turned-bestselling-rom-com-author with a sordid past of his own? Or her sister Harper, whose own stilted writing career has been a sore point for years as Eleanor’s has soared? Perhaps it’s one of the other writers also in attendance, as friends, frenemies and foes from Eleanor’s past all seem to be invited to the island.

Surrounded by mystery writers who know all too well the many ways to craft the perfect crime, Eleanor is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery and do whatever it takes to get out of this weekend alive."

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A resort mystery that didn't quite work for me in either format

After listening to the audio version of this book, I really hoped that sitting down with the physical copy would give me a different experience, but unfortunately it still didn't quite work for me.

The story takes place at an all-inclusive resort in the Bahamas where Eleanor Dash, a mystery author, is attending a writers' conference. Things quickly go downhill when a dead body appears right on her hotel room floor. I usually love a good locked-island setup, but the execution here just felt a bit too chaotic.

There is a huge cast of characters to keep track of, and because this is the third book in a series, I felt like I was constantly playing catch-up with the history. On top of that, the plot got so convoluted towards the end with all the red herrings that it lost me a bit.

When I tried the audiobook, I found the constant, quirky footnotes where the main character talks directly to the reader quite disruptive to the flow. Having the physical book in front of me definitely made those footnotes easier to navigate on the page, but the formatting still broke up the tension of the actual investigation.

It is a light, snappy beach read if you enjoy a lot of drama and modern slang, but it just had a few too many niggles to be a standout for me. It does what it says on the tin, but it stays firmly in the neutral zone.

Thank you to the author, Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this book.

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False Dawn (Mackenzie Reynolds #1) by D.V. Berkom

✴✴✴ Expected publication 7 August 2026 ✴✴✴

Description from Goodreads:

"She thought the mission was about protecting a defector.

She was wrong.

When a high-value defection goes violently wrong off the coast of Costa Rica, close protection operator Mackenzie “Mac” Reynolds is the only one left standing. Her client, a Chinese military colonel, vanishes. Her team is dead. Determined to uncover who betrayed them, Mac begins a global hunt for the truth."

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A cracking start to a new series

I've been a huge fan of DV Berkom for years – her Leine Basso books are always a must-read for me – so I was incredibly excited to hear she's starting a brand new series. 

This story introduces us to a brand new character, Mackenzie Reynolds, and she is an absolute powerhouse. Honestly, the whole way through reading I just kept thinking about how much I need Mackenzie and Leine to meet up at some point. They would either become instant friends or completely level whatever city they happened to be in together, and I would 100% pay to see that! 😜

The story kicks off quickly and doesn't really let up. Mackenzie proves she is more than capable of handling herself. She is tough, clever and has that perfectly gritty edge that this author writes so well.  The plot has plenty of twists to keep you guessing and the pacing is spot on. 

The settings themselves are atmospheric and vivid that they almost become characters in their own right, adding a layer of tension to the plot you can practically feel the sweat and dust on the page as things unfold.

If you like fast-paced thrillers with strong, no-nonsense female leads then you're going to love this one. It doesn't officially come out until August but it's definitely one to add to your pre-order list. I'm already impatient for the next book to see what Mackenzie gets up to next.

Once again, thank you to D.V for accepting me as a member her ARTeam and for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of False Dawn and my hungry eyes can't wait to read the next!

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The Girls in the Dark by Avery Bishop [Audiobook]

🎙🎙🎙 Narrated by Brittany Pressley🎙🎙🎙

Description from Goodreads:

"Twenty years ago, my twin sister and I were abducted. Only I survived. Or so I thought…

The night I escaped from our abductor was the last time I saw my sister. I’ve never forgiven myself for the fact that I made it out and she didn’t. By the time the police found where we were held, there was no sign of her. Or the man that took us.

I’ve spent decades trying to forget that I couldn’t save my own sister. But on the anniversary of our abduction, I find a black rose on my car. There’s no one in the parking lot, but I know it’s a warning. My stomach churns to think it could be from the monster who held us captive all those years ago, wanting to take back what he believes is his.

But as I stare at it, I wonder if someone else may have left my sister. I always thought she died in that room, but what if she escaped? And if it’s her, and the truth of what happened the night I got out comes to light, will it destroy everything?"

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A dark, disturbing and twisty thriller 

I have been a fan of psychological thrillers for years so when I saw this audiobook I jumped at the chance to listen to it. 

The story follows Megan who managed to escape a serial killer twenty years ago while her twin sister Allison was left behind. Now on the twentieth anniversary, a black rose appears on her car and other troubling events occur and suddenly all the secrets Megan has been hiding about that night are threatened to be exposed - could Allison have survived and what really happened on the night Megan escaped?

Before diving in further I think it is important to include a quick trigger warning for this one. The core of the plot revolves around two young girls being kidnapped and abused by their captor so please bear that in mind if those themes are difficult for you to read about.

The plot weaves back and forth between the terrifying past in captivity and the increasingly tense present day. It creates a really claustrophobic atmosphere that kept me entirely hooked. I thought I had guessed exactly where the plot was going but the final twist took me a bit by surprise.

Brittany Pressley narrated the audiobook and she was absolutely fantastic. She managed to capture all the raw emotion, anxiety and mounting panic perfectly and her voice for the abuser was perfectly creepy.

The pacing of the story was good for me as an audiobook particularly as I listen to it in the car.  There were even times, especially towards the end, when I wanted to come across a traffic jam just so I could carry on listening!

Overall it is a dark and unsettling story about trauma and survival guilt that I would highly recommend to anyone who loves a good thriller.

Many thanks to the author, Bookouture Audio and NetGalley for enabling me to listen to and share my thoughts of this quite gripping book.

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This Weekend Doesn't End Well for Anyone by Catherine Mack [Audiobook]

Description from Goodreads:

"Eleanor Dash can never catch a break. Not only has she had to solve two real-life murder plots in the past year, but both times it was when she was meant to be on vacation. Now she’s finally got a ticket to a relaxing weekend—an all-inclusive resort in the Bahamas where she’s speaking at a conference for murder mystery writers—but she arrives to find a body on the floor of her hotel room. Because of course she does.

With plenty of familiar faces at the resort, any one of them could have been the intended target or the culprit behind it all. Was it Oliver Forrest, Eleanor’s dashing boyfriend who’s in danger of getting dropped by his publisher because his sales are dwindling? Or Connor Smith, Eleanor’s infuriating ex-lover-turned-bestselling-rom-com-author with a sordid past of his own? Or her sister Harper, whose own stilted writing career has been a sore point for years as Eleanor’s has soared? Perhaps it’s one of the other writers also in attendance, as friends, frenemies and foes from Eleanor’s past all seem to be invited to the island.

Surrounded by mystery writers who know all too well the many ways to craft the perfect crime, Eleanor is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery and do whatever it takes to get out of this weekend alive."

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A resort mystery that got a bit too chaotic for me

I jumped into this audiobook expecting a fun, locked-island style mystery with plenty of twists. While it definitely kept me guessing, it didn't quite hit the mark for me.

The story follows Eleanor Dash, an author who finds herself at an all-inclusive resort in the Bahamas for a murder mystery writers' conference. Instead of a relaxing weekend, she arrives to find a dead body right on her hotel room floor. It's a classic setup that I usually love, but the execution felt a bit messy here.

There were so many characters to keep track of, and unfortunately, I didn't find many of them particularly easy to root for. The pacing felt quite disjointed too and the plot got so convoluted towards the end with all the red herrings that it felt a bit far-fetched, even for a light thriller.

To be fair, I didn't realise until after I started that this is actually the third book in a series. That definitely might have affected how I felt about the story, as I felt like I was missing some of the background history between the recurring characters.

On the plus side, the narrator did a good job. She managed to give everyone distinct voices which helped me follow who was speaking during the chaotic group scenes, and she handled the quirky little footnotes where the main character pops in to talk directly to the reader really well.

I actually have the physical copy of the book to read as well. The story features a huge amount of those footnotes and modern slang, which felt a bit disruptive in audio format, so maybe I will prefer reading the physical version instead – I'm not entirely sure yet but I will give it a go.

Many thanks to the author, Macmillan and NetGalley for enabling me to listen to and share my thoughts.

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The Killer in Room Five by Sam Holland

Description from Goodreads:

"A terrible confession

In an isolated room in Hollowpines, an infamous psychiatric hospital, Joe Sinclair is confessing to a violent murder.

An impossible crime

Locked away, Joe couldn't possibly have killed the man, so how does he know so many of the horrifying details?

A detective at her limits

Suspended after a colleague was stabbed on her watch, DC Abby Fox has only just returned to work. But at Hollowpines, she must find out what really happened and how exactly Joe is involved.

Is he to blame, or the only one who can stop the killer?"

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A masterclass in tension

I have read some of Sam's previous books and they have all been excellent, so I was incredibly excited to get my hands on this one. I can happily report that this is no exception. From the very first page, it grabs you by the throat and just does not let go.

While this one is a standalone and not part of a series, if you've read her previous books, you will know exactly how twisted her mind can be. The story sets up an incredible premise based in Hollowpines, an infamous psychiatric hospital. A patient named Joe Sinclair is locked away in an isolated room confessing to a brutal murder, yet it's seemingly an impossible crime because there's no way he could have physically done it. The mystery of how he knows such explicit, horrifying details is what sets off a dark, intensely clever plot that keeps you guessing.  

The hospital setting is brilliantly atmospheric - it feels incredibly heavy and claustrophobic – and the pacing is spot on. I found myself racing through the chapters late into the night because I just had to know how everything was going to unravel.

What I love most about Sam Holland's writing is the ability to create flawed, deeply human characters. DC Abby Fox is a fantastic protagonist – she is returning to work after a tough suspension and is riddled with self-doubt but fiercely determined to prove her worth. The psychological element of how easily human memory can be influenced or warped by suggestion adds an extra layer of intrigue that kept me constantly second-guessing who to trust.  

If you are a fan of psychological thrillers that are fast-paced, clever and a little bit gruesome, you definitely need to add this to your reading list. It's easily one of the best books I have read this year so far.

Huge thanks to the author, Harper Collins UK, Harper Fiction, Hemlock Press and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of another excellent book from Sam Holland.

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Broken Circle (DS Liam Kilshaw #3) by Matt Brolly

Description from Goodreads:

"An ancient legend reborn. A killer recreating dark rituals. And a detective racing to break the circle before it’s complete.

When the body of a teenage girl is found posed in the Merry Maidens stone circle, her face coated in clay and ochre, DS Liam Kilshaw is drawn into a case where near-forgotten fictions bleed into brutal fact.

With echoes of an old folktale of dancers turned to stone, the scene is more about staging than superstition. And when two skeletons are unearthed beneath a nearby stone, Kilshaw realises the past is far from dead and buried.

As he hunts for a missing farmhand linked to the girl, more victims surface, each placed with ritual precision in remote ancient sites. With the noose tightening, Kilshaw must decipher centuries-old secrets to break the circle. Because in this deadly game of ancient rites and cold-blooded murder, the killer is saving the most important sacrifice for last.

A haunting crime thriller where medieval legends collide with modern murder."

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Eerie and atmospheric

I've read quite a few of Matt Brolly’s books over the years, but I’ve actually never picked up one from the DS Liam Kilshaw series before now. Even though this is the third instalment, I didn't find it too difficult to follow the main plot, so it definitely works as a standalone.

There’s clearly a lot of character development and history that I've missed by jumping in late. Liam is obviously a man carrying a fair bit of baggage and while the author gives enough context to understand his current state of mind, I think I would've felt a much stronger emotional connection to him if I’d been there from the start. It felt a bit like being a guest at a party where everyone else knows the inside jokes – not the author’s fault at all, just a reminder that I need to go back and read the first two!  

The setting is what really made this one for me. It’s incredibly atmospheric, using the rugged backdrop of Cornwall to great effect. The story kicks off with a really chilling discovery at the Merry Maidens stone circle, where a girl’s body has been staged in a way that feels tied to ancient rituals and folklore. I absolutely loved this folk-horror element; it gave the whole mystery a much darker and more unsettling edge than your average police procedural. The way local legends were woven into the investigation kept me engaged.  

In terms of pace, it’s a bit of a slow burner with very little action in the traditional sense. Instead, it relies on a sense of mounting dread and tension that just oozes out of the pages. If you prefer high-octane chases, this might feel a bit quiet, but for me, the suspense was spot on. It’s a very solid read that has definitely convinced me I need to catch up on Liam’s earlier cases.

Many thanks to the author, Amazon Publishing UK, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this, a new series for me.

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The Serial Killer Support Network (Secret Vigilante #2) by D.B. Stephens

Description from Goodreads:

"Therapy was just the beginning…

For six months someone known only as The Caretaker has been committing crimes against those who have wronged.

Now, women across the country have been inspired to take control of their own lives and seek revenge on the people who hurt them.

The Caretaker is more than just a killer, he’s become a movement. And the serial killer support group have found themselves at the heart of it…"

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A dark and twisty sequel that keeps the momentum going

I was a massive fan of the first book in this series so I was buzzing to get my hands on an early copy of this one. D.B. Stephens has delivered another high-stakes story that keeps the tension high from the very first page.

The characters are what really make it and I especially liked getting more background on Sophie's past this time around. It added a lot of depth to her character that we didn't have before. However, I did find myself getting a bit frustrated with the constant back and forth between Sophie and Jess. It felt like it stalled the plot a little in places when I just wanted to get on with it.

One thing that didn't hit as hard for me was that the killings didn't feel quite as personal this time. We weren't as connected to the backstories or the reasons why these specific people were being targeted which took away some of the impact. The ending is also a massive cliffhanger. While it definitely makes me want to see what happens in the next instalment, it's the kind of finish that might leave you feeling a bit impatient!

Overall, it's a very good read and I'm still well and truly hooked on the Secret Vigilante series. It’s fast-paced and has plenty of surprises without ever feeling like it’s trying too hard to be shocking. If you liked the first one, you'll definitely want to pick this up to see where the group goes next.

Thanks to the author, Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this, the second book in the series.

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The Stranger on the Stairs by Ruth Mancini

Description from Goodreads:

"You were only seven years old when you witnessed your mother's murder.

Although you did not see her attacker clearly, you are pretty sure who it was.

Thanks to you, he went to prison for twenty years.

Now he's out.

And you are no longer certain that the man you identified that terrifying evening really was the killer.

But if it wasn’t him, who was the stranger on the stairs?

And can he now be coming for you?"

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A twisty and unsettling thriller

I read Ruth Mancini’s previous book, The Woman on the Ledge, back in December 2023 just before it was officially released, and I've been meaning to pick up another of her stories for ages. I’ve definitely left it far too long to dive back into her work, but I’m so glad I finally did because this was another cracking read.

The story centres on a woman who witnessed her mother’s murder when she was just a child. Her evidence was what put a man behind bars for twenty years, but now that he’s been released, she’s starting to question everything she thought she knew. It’s a really clever premise that looks at how fragile our memories can be – especially when we’re young – and whether we can ever truly trust what we think we saw.

Because Ruth Mancini is a criminal defence lawyer, the whole thing feels incredibly authentic. You can really tell she knows the legal system inside out. It isn’t just about the mystery either; it’s a very human story about trauma and the search for the truth, even when that truth is terrifying.  The idea of a potential miscarriage of justice feels all too real – we've seen enough cases like this over the years to know that the system isn't always perfect – and that adds a layer of genuine unease to the plot.

The pacing is excellent and kept me turning the pages late into the night. I'll admit I did manage to guess what was happening and worked out "whodunnit" before the reveal, but that didn't take away from the enjoyment at all. I really liked how everything came together at the end which was very satisfying.

Many thanks to the author, Random House UK, Cornerstone, Century and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this thought-provoking and scarily all to real book.

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A Deadly Episode by Anthony Horowitz

Description from Goodreads:

"The Word is Murder, the first book in the Hawthorne series, is about to be made into a major feature film.

The actors have been cast, the script written, and filming has already started in Hastings.

But when Hawthorne and Anthony visit the set, they find a far from happy family.

The director’s pretentious, the screenwriter’s an eco-warrior, the two stars hate each other, and the producer has run out of money.

And things are about to get much, much worse.

In the middle of shooting, the actor playing Hawthorne is stabbed – which leaves the real Hawthorne with no choice. He has to step in and investigate his own murder.

Because the killer may not have got the right man. Was it Hawthorne himself who was meant to be the target?

A Deadly Episode is a wild ride through a world that the author knows only too well, and the most personal case Hawthorne has had to deal with so far."

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Murder on the movie set

I’ve just finished the latest Hawthorne and Horowitz mystery and it’s honestly one of the cleverest ones yet. This is the fourth book in the series I’ve read, and I still love the way Anthony Horowitz writes himself as the slightly out-of-his-depth sidekick to the brilliant but difficult Daniel Hawthorne.

The setup for this one is brilliant. They’re on the set of a film adaptation of the first book, The Word is Murder, when the actor playing Hawthorne is found murdered in his trailer. It’s such a fun premise – it’s essentially a book about a man writing a book about a movie based on a book he wrote! It forces the characters to navigate a cast of suspicious film types – from a pretentious director to an intense screenwriter – while wondering if the real Hawthorne was actually the intended target.

What I really enjoy about these books is there’s plenty of dry humour, especially when the film crew treats the "real" Anthony like a bit of a nuisance on set. We also get a few more hints about Hawthorne’s mysterious past, which always keeps me hooked. It’s sharp, engaging and doesn’t feel like a typical "by the numbers" detective story.

If you’ve enjoyed the previous books, you’re going to love this one. It’s a wonderful story within a story that kept me guessing right until the end. It’s definitely a must-read for anyone who likes a mystery that’s a bit different and very well-constructed.

Many thanks to the author, RandomHouse UK, Cornerstone and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this, the 6th book in this intriguing series.

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The Waitress by K.L. Slater

Description from Goodreads:

"My job as a waitress means I’m used to watching everything – and used to lying. Soon I’m posing as someone’s girlfriend… But what does he really want from me?

When I slip on my waitress’s uniform I become a different person. And I’m good at what I do. I instantly identify Trent as the most important man in the room, and I catch his eye as I serve canapes to his rich clients. We share a little smile… and later that evening, he asks me to pretend to be his girlfriend.

Of course I accept. It’s the perfect way for me to escape my own past. He just needs me to watch certain people. It seems easy.

Soon I’m living in his opulent home, wearing a new wardrobe of designer clothes. Then I discover there was a woman here before me. Saskia. Nobody will talk about her…

Suddenly I don’t feel safe anymore. If I leave, I’m no longer protected. But if I stay here, in this silent apartment of secrets, will anyone miss me if I disappear?"

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A quick read but a bit far-fetched

It was great to jump back into a K.L. Slater book as she's usually a "must-read" author for me. I found myself flying through the pages because the hook was definitely there and I really wanted to know how everything was going to wrap up. It kept me guessing for a while and had that classic addictive quality that makes you want to read "just one more chapter" before turning out the light.

However, I've got to admit this one felt a bit "out there" compared to some of her earlier work. While I expect a few twists in a psychological thriller, the plot in this one felt quite implausible and required a huge leap of faith to really get on board with. There were moments where I found myself thinking that things just wouldn't happen that way in real life, which pulled me out of the story a bit.

It's a solid, fast-paced read if you're looking for something to breeze through on a weekend, but it didn't quite hit the heights of her best thrillers for me. It's a decent middle-of-the-road story that does what it says on the tin but lacked that extra bit K.L.'s books usually give me.

Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this book.

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I Owe You One by Lauren North [Audiobook]

🎙🎙🎙 Narrated by Heather Long 🎙🎙🎙

Description from Goodreads:

"You saved my life. I faked your death...

I only came back to Skelwick Bay to lie low and reconnect with my sister. But now she wants me to fake her death...

Bryony says her husband Alex is abusive and it's the only way. And even though I think it's crazy, I can't say no, because I owe her for saving me 15 years ago...

So we hatch a plan – we fake a sailing accident. And my darling sister 'dies'.

Only, when she's gone, I start to think. There are holes in the story she gave me. She doesn't reach out like she says she will, leaving me to deal with the mess alone. And Alex only seems completely devastated...

So when I learn Bryony never actually saved my life all those years ago, I start to question everything she's ever told me. And I'm left with the terrifying Have I just saved my sister's life? Or helped her get away with a terrible crime...?"

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A tense and gripping listen

I've listened to Lauren North before, so I had high expectations for this one, and it certainly didn't disappoint. It's one of those stories that starts with a simple premise – a small favour – that quickly spirals into something much more unsettling. The psychological tension builds beautifully throughout, making it very hard to press pause.

The characters are well-drawn and I found myself constantly questioning who was actually telling the truth. It's a clever look at how easily life can be disrupted when you let the wrong person in. The pacing was spot on for a thriller; it felt like there was always a new layer being peeled back just as I thought I'd figured things out.

The narrator did a fantastic job of bringing the tension to life. Their voice really suited the tone of the book and helped to distinguish the different perspectives without it feeling forced. It made the whole experience much more immersive, especially during the more claustrophobic moments of the plot.

The ending felt a little bit rushed compared to the steady build-up of the rest of the book. However, I still recommend it to anyone who enjoys a twisty domestic thriller. 

Many thanks to the author, Bolinda Audio and NetGalley for enabling me to listen to and share my thoughts of this audiobook.

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Star of the North by D. B. John

Description from Goodreads:

"North Korea and the USA are on the brink of war.

A young American woman disappears without trace from a South Korean island.

The CIA recruits her twin sister to uncover the truth.

Now, she must go undercover in the world's most deadly state.

Only by infiltrating the dark heart of the terrifying regime will she be able to save her sister ... and herself."

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A gripping look into the hidden world of North Korea

I’ve finally done it! I've managed to clear a bit of space on my virtual bookshelf and get around to reading Star of the North. It’s been sitting on my to-be-read pile on my Kindle since the beginning of 2019, which is quite embarrassing really, but I’m so glad I finally picked it up.

The story’s a bit of a slow burner at first because it follows three very different paths. You’ve got an American academic looking for her twin sister, a North Korean diplomat trying to survive the regime’s politics and a peasant woman just trying to get by. It’s a lot to keep track of, but the way D B John eventually weaves these lives together is brilliant.

The level of detail about life in North Korea is what really stuck with me. It doesn't feel like a typical Hollywood thriller; it’s gritty and far more realistic. Some parts are actually quite difficult to read because the author doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of the labour camps. It’s clear a huge amount of research went into this to make the setting feel so authentic.

It isn’t perfect - some of the coincidences felt a little bit convenient - but the tension kept me turning the pages late into the night. It’s a very good, solid thriller that actually makes you think. If you like stories with a bit of political weight, you’ll definitely enjoy this one.

Huge thanks to the author, the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this and eventually share my thoughts.

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I Think We Should Kill Other People by L. M. Chilton

Description from Goodreads:

"The nation watched them fall in love. Now someone's watching them die.

Hazel and Marc were paired together on revolutionary new reality TV show Love Synced, in which sophisticated AI matches hopeful lovers based on its perceptive algorithms.

But when it came time to say I Do on camera, Hazel couldn't go through with it, leaving her perfect match at the altar, his family furious and the whole TV production in jeopardy.

Now all she wants to do is fly home. Instead, she's trapped in a tiny isolated airport that's been ground to a halt amidst a massive snow storm... with her ex and his obnoxiously rich family sitting at the gate with her. But when they start turning up dead, a jilted lover is the least of Hazel's worries – there's a serial killer to catch first.

The heart's a fickle thing, so it's no surprise that AI couldn't predict true love for Hazel… But could it help crack the case when a murderer is picking off her almost-in-laws one by one?"

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An intriguing locked-room mystery with a unique AI twist

I was really looking forward to reading this one after enjoying the author's debut, Don't Swipe Right. The premise is so clever and modern – a reality TV show called Love Synced where AI is used to find your perfect soulmate. As someone who's always a bit wary of how much we rely on technology, the idea of an AI "fairy godmother" called CILLA running a social experiment really piqued my interest.

The story follows Hazel (great name!) who has just left her "perfect match" Marc at the altar. She’s stuck in a tiny, snow-bound Norwegian airport with her jilted ex and his incredibly wealthy, pretty awful family. It’s a great setup for a locked-room mystery, especially when people start turning up dead. I loved the satire of reality TV culture and the way it explored how Hazel tried to solve a murder with the help of CILLA.

Hazel is a great main character – a bit chaotic with some secrets of her own that kept me reading. The chapters alternate between the tense night at the airport and flashbacks to the filming of the show, which was a great way to build up the backstory of the "almost-in-laws." There were definitely some sharp, funny moments and a few twists.

However, I did find the pace a bit slow in parts. The middle section felt like it went on for a bit too long and I found myself wanting things to move along a bit faster. While the setting was atmospheric, some of the dialogue felt a little forced and I did have to suspend reality in a big way. It’s a solid, entertaining read but it just didn't quite have the same "unputdownable" feel for me throughout.

Many thanks to the author, Aria & Aries and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this book.

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The Nazi Ghost Train by Greg Lewis

Description from Goodreads:

"The true story of how more than 1,400 men and women of the Resistance, SOE agents, and airmen from Britain, the US and Canada were saved from death in a concentration camp by the courage and cunning of a small group of Belgian civilians.

Nazi Ghost Train unfolds in a pulse-pounding narrative, describing the terror of being shot down on bombing missions, the fight to stay free and alive with Gestapo on your tail, and the gut wrenching horror of betrayal.

From the opening scenes inside a B-17 when it is pounced on by an enemy fighter to the final desperate hours on the 'Ghost Train', this fight for survival will keep readers truing the pages after they should have flicked out the light.

Drawing upon a wealth of primary sources and extensive interviews, Nazi Ghost Train brings to life a cast of unforgettable characters, a Jew who risked his life to work with the armed resistance; a Liberator pilot who dropped secret agents behind the lines; a fascinating young Resistance heroine who ordered an attempt to kill one traitor and escaped to London to expose another to British intelligence; and Francoise Labouverie, who gathered intelligence on German radar until a Nazi officer dedicated a detective unit to track her down.

These stories weave together until - with liberation a heartbeat away - the Belgian patriots, Allied airmen and agents are roused from their prison cells and loaded onto cattle trucks. Would that be the end of them or could one last extraordinary escape plan change everything?"

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Essential reading to ensure these remarkable people are never forgotten

I've read quite a few books about the Second World War but this one really stuck with me. It tells the story of Allied airmen and members of the resistance who were trapped on one of the final deportation trains leaving Brussels just as the city was about to be liberated. The sheer scale of the research Greg Lewis has put into this is incredible and it shows in every chapter.

What really got to me was the unbelievable bravery of the "normal" people involved. These weren't professional soldiers in the traditional sense – they were just people who decided they couldn't sit back and do nothing while their country was occupied. The detail provided about the individual airmen and the Belgian resistance fighters makes the whole ordeal feel very personal rather than just another history lesson.

The conditions these people faced were nightmare-ish, and the author doesn't shy away from the grim reality of life in occupied territory. It isn't just about the train itself, but the constant fear and the unknown that they lived with every single day. From the tension of evasion and moving between safe houses to the harrowing experiences after being caught, you really get a sense of the immense pressure on both the airmen and the resistance members.

If you're interested in untold stories of WWII or the resistance in occupied Europe, I'd definitely recommend picking this up. It’s a remarkable tribute to those who suffered and fought back during such a dark time.

Many thanks to the author, Mirror Books and NetGalley for enabling me to read and share my thoughts of this informative book.

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