Review: This Inevitable Ruin

This Inevitable Ruin by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure:  I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of This Inevitable Ruin by Matt Dinniman from Ace via NetGalley.  This book is available now.

I had a real dilemma around This Inevitable Ruin, the seventh book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series, by Matt Dinniman.  I just finished the sixth book, and I know the eighth book is maybe not even a twinkle in Matt's eye yet.  I was going to hold out.  I was going to read a 900 page book before I even picked this up.  I started that book, but this book was calling to me.  I resisted for almost a full 24 hours.  Then a friend sent a couple of paragraphs of this book.  I broke.  I ditched the other book and picked this one up.  I read and read and read until it was finished.  That took about 48 hours.  I don't regret it, but I am worried I have become a little too obsessed with these books.  If you haven't started reading them, you should start with book one.  You have plenty of time to get through all of them before book eight comes out even if you pace yourself better than I did.  

If you have been reading the series, I don't know how you haven't already started this one.  We are at the dreaded ninth floor, Faction Wars!  There will be blood.  But hey, they have permission to actually kill those horrible people who think this is all fun and games so there's that.  This book is intense. I laughed a lot and cheered, but I also cried a few times.  While I read it in a marathon session, I don't recommend that.  Take breaks.  Stay hydrated.  Eat something.  This is war.

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Review: Red Flags: Bridget Jones meets Black Mirror

Red Flags: Bridget Jones meets Black Mirror by J.E. Rowney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Red Flags by J.E. Rowney from Books Go Social via NetGalley.  This book is already available.  

Red Flags by J.E. Rowney hooked me with the tagline, Bridget Jones meets Black Mirror.  Yes, please!  However, if you are looking for a humorous rom-com, this is probably more Black Mirror than Bridget Jones.  If you have ever had to navigate the horrors of dating in the digital age, you will find this book relatable.  Those of us who have used dating apps know it can be soul-crushing.  I am not going to spoil anything in this story, but I think it is very possible that some apps already are on board with the premise of this book.  It almost makes too much sense.  It also makes me feel vindicated for unmatching with any guy who wants to endlessly text instead of meeting in person.  Red flag!  I could very much related to maintaining friendships at a distance as all of my friends are somewhere else in the world.  I appreciate their presence in my life even if we can't meet up in person.

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Review: The Eye of the Bedlam Bride

The Eye of the Bedlam Bride by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Eye of the Bedlam Bride is the sixth book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman.  There is a recap at the beginning of the book in case it has been awhile, and you need a refresher.  I still don't recommend picking up the series from here.  This is a series best read from start to finish in order.  

We have reached the eighth floor!  We've lost friends and made new ones.  As we are reminded, it will get worse before it gets better.  In that spirit, we now battle using card decks!  If you know what that even means, you have reached peak gaming nerd.  It is fine for fun, but you have to use a lot of strategy to be really good at it.  It is a matter of building a good deck, playing your cards right, and a little bit of luck.  Things are getting very intense.  Sacrifices are made.  I felt compelled to start the seventh book not long after finishing this one, and yet, I am afraid of what is to come.

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Review: Night of the Mannequins

Night of the Mannequins by Stephen Graham Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I listened to the audiobook version of Night of the Mannequins written by Stephen Graham Jones and narrated by Gary Tiedemann.  I wouldn't normally listen to something like this, but it was the only version my library had, and it is fairly short.  I listened to the whole thing in one day.  

As you would expect, it is extremely well written.  It was not what I was expecting for a story though at all.  I thought there would be a lot of creepy mannequins.  There is just one.  So as not to spoil it.  I will also say there is a prank.  There is blood.  If you like slasher films, you might enjoy this book.  

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Review: 25 Alive

25 Alive by James Patterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

25 Alive is the 25th book in the Women's Murder Club series by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro.  You probably could start here, but you would be missing a lot of backstory.  These books go by fast, so it might be worth going back to the start if you have never read one.  If you have read them before, you could pick up here without a real problem.  

Let's just get it out of the way.  This is a sad one.  I was maybe a third of the way in when I thought this might be the last book.  And, it might be.  It is the first time that I think the ending wasn't wholly satisfactory.  That doesn't diminish the book.  Life doesn't always give us happy endings, and books shouldn't have to either.  If anything, this book left me a little nervous and anxious about the future of the Women's Murder Club. 

Bonus points for a very good dog.  I think I struggled the most with that part of the storyline.  I almost didn't finish!

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Review: Guilty by Definition

Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent from Sourcebooks Landmark via NetGalley.  This book will be published around September 30, 2025.  

Word Nerds Alert! Guilty by Definition by Susie Dent is the perfect book to read if you like a mystery and really love language.  Each chapter starts with a unique, uncommon word and its definition.  Since the story follows lexicographers at a dictionary company, the word fun doesn't end there.  They are drawn into solving a mysterious disappearance through a series of notes that also involve wordplay.  The notes are included so you can try to solve them as well.  There is also quite a bit of Shakespeare in here if that tickles your fancy.  

Bonus points for making sure the cats are all taken care of no matter what happened!

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Review: The Butcher's Masquerade

The Butcher's Masquerade by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure:  I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of The Butcher's Masquerade by Matt Dinniman from Ace via NetGalley.  This book has already been published.

The Butcher's Masquerade is the fifth book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman.  In case you haven't read my other reviews of this series, do not start with this book.  Start with book one and read in order.  You will thank me for it.  

The name of this book conjured memories of the Red Wedding. #IYKYK  That may draw some people in and make others run away screaming.  If you ran, come back.  You will not want to miss this party. As funny as this series is, I also cried.  It got me right in the feels.  Darn you, Matt!  GRRM taught us not to get too attached to any character but sometimes you can't help yourself.  There are also some really big surprises in here that you won't want to miss! 

Bonus points for Samantha, who unexpectedly became one of my favorite characters.  I even know the friend I would have play her if we were LARPing this.   

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Review: Cat

Cat by Rebecca van Laer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure:  I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Cat by Rebecca van Laer from Bloomsbury Academic via NetGalley.  It will be published around October 2, 2025.

Cat by Rebecca van Laer is a standalone book in the Object Lessons series.  Each book in that series focuses on one topic.  Cat is about (surprise!) cats.  More specifically, it is the story of Toby and Gus.  Rebecca shares her experience with cats, these two in particular, and how they have shaped her life experience.  While I loved almost all of the stories, there were a few that I found difficult to read.  If you are very sensitive to animal pain/suffering/cruelty, you will want to approach with caution.  The good thing is it is fairly easy to just skip the uncomfortable bits.  I understand it can be difficult to tell the story of cats without mentioning how they have often been villainized and paid the price for it.  Caveat aside, this is a sweet book for the cat lover.  

Bonus points for including photos of the cats in the book.  

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Review: If You Tame Me

If You Tame Me by Kathie Giorgio
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If You Tame Me by Kathie Giorgio drew me in with the promise of an iguana.  It is right there on the cover!  That's all I needed.  I like animals.  I like all animals.  I have considered having an iguana, some other lizard, or an amphibian.  They are interesting.  I have always been afraid I would not be able to keep them alive.   Then along comes Audrey who convinced me that a middle-aged, single woman living in Wisconsin can have an iguana.  There are also parakeets in this book.  I love birds and have had parakeets.  They are a joy.  Maybe I will also get parakeets again. I digress.  There is more to this story than the animals.  Audrey is facing a lot of the issues that women of an age living in today's world are facing.  She has younger friends who don't see these issues the same way she does and is trying to understand them.  Been there.  There were a few things that I thought Audrey was maybe a little too sheltered or naive about or maybe that was just a reason to explain these things for an audience who might not be hip to what single life is currently like.  There is some romance in this book.  If you are not a big romance person (I am definitely not), you can still enjoy this.  

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Review: Romeo and/or Juliet: A Chooseable-Path Adventure

Romeo and/or Juliet: A Chooseable-Path Adventure by Ryan North
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You've never read Shakespeare like this before!  Romeo and/or Juliet: A Chooseable-Path Adventure by Ryan North is a chance to read the Bard in a whole new way.  Choose to be Romeo or Juliet and see where life takes you.  You might be surprised where you end up.  Minor spoiler: I read as Juliet and ended up a spinster.  It felt a little too much like my real life.  The great part is if you don't like your ending, you can read it again...and again...and again.  Really, you get a lot of readings out of this book.  Well worth whatever you spend. Unless you spend a hundred plus dollars.  Then you should rethink your life choices.

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Review: The Appeal

The Appeal by Janice Hallett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Appeal by Janice Hallett has you reading a case with some law students to see if there is any basis for an appeal.  You don't know who is in jail or who even died.  You learn everything as they are fed documents to read and form their theories.  I didn't always agree with what they thought about evidence which was an interesting exercise in itself.  Three people can look at something and interpret it in three different ways.  How does that affect a legal system? This case happens to involve a group of community theater people.  How good is their acting? Good enough to get away with murder?

Janice Hallett writes some of my very favorite mystery books.  I like them so much because they are written in an unconventional epistolary fashion that parcels out clues via a variety of narrators and formats.  There is also a good bit of humor involved.  So while there is murder, it isn't a gruesome read for those that might be squeamish.  

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Review: Shards of Honour

Shards of Honour by Lois McMaster Bujold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shards of Honour is the first book in the Vorkosigan Saga by Lois McMaster Bujold.  I was recommended this series as something I might like based on many of the other authors I read.  Should you start here?  That's up to you.  The series is not necessarily written in read order.  Lots of people suggest starting with The Warrior's Apprentice instead and coming back to this later as a sort of a prequel to that.  The author actually includes a whole section on the recommended reading order.  You may want to do some research on your own before you decide where to start.  Wherever you start, the writing is great.  I can see why this was recommended to me.  The characters are interesting and engaging.  This book has a bit of romance, whereas other books in the series are more adventure-focused.  I'm looking forward to reading more.

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Review: The Gate of the Feral Gods

The Gate of the Feral Gods by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure:  I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of The Gate of the Feral Gods by Matt Dinniman from Ace via NetGalley.

The Gate of the Feral Gods is the fourth book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman.  You will want to start with book one because the books build on one another.  Think of it like playing a video game.  You don't want to skip a level, or you may be unprepared for what comes next.  

To avoid spoilers, I will just say we've made it to the fifth floor of the dungeon. Who's we?  Read the book.  It is not getting any easier.  If you and your friends aren't in the same party, you might not see them again.  Keep your friends close, right?  Then again, that's not necessarily going to help you out here when you need to conquer several different areas in a very short time.  Oh, and each area is dominated by an element to make it just that much harder.  We also get the cutest quest ever!  Say thank you to the AI.

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Review: You Are the Detective: The Creeping Hand Murder

You Are the Detective: The Creeping Hand Murder by Maureen Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader's Copy of You Are the Detective: The Creeping Hand Murder by Maureen Johnson and Jay Cooper from Ten Speed Press via NetGalley.

You Are the Detective: The Creeping Hand Murder by Maureen Johnson and Jay Cooper is absolutely fantastic.  It reminds me of these books I used to get from the library when I was very young.  They were typed on onion paper and included actual "evidence" in envelopes.  You had to solve the mystery and the solution was sealed at the end.  I loved those books, and I love this book!  It is very similar except instead of tangible evidence, you have photos (illustrations) of everything.  You have all the information to solve the crime told through case notes and police statements.  The solution is available once you are ready to see it.  It was so fun!  I read it in one day.  I hope to see more of these.

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Review: The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook

The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Dungeon Anarchist's Cookbook is the third book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman.  You really need to read these books in order simply because they build on each other and reference the previous ones.  If you aren't familiar with LitRPG, it is kind of like playing a video game but in book form.  You wouldn't just jump into it in the middle.  You would be woefully unprepared.  

Shout out to Matt for telling you up front not to worry about the mapping.  That was a brain saver.  I won't spoil very much but this level involves trains.  It also involves all the chaos and mayhem you have come to expect from spending time with Carl and Princess Donut.  The monsters are bigger and tougher.  It can only get worse from here.

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Review: Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism

Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn-Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A friend, who kept refencing stories in it, recommended I read Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power, Greed, and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn-Williams.  I have read other tech memoirs and wasn't sure if this would bring anything new to the table.  I was so wrong.  First, I didn't know that Sarah Wynn-Williams is a former diplomat for New Zealand.  Former diplomats represent!  Second, she worked with Sheryl Sandberg, and I have very strong feelings about Lean In.  Not a fan.  I was not surprised to learn that (SPOILER ALERT) rich people feel very entitled.  If anything, this book really brought back bad memories of my former career. I kept thinking "that tracks" with every anecdote.  Wile I use the Zuck's platforms to stay in touch with people, and you might even be reading this on one of them, I don't have any illusions they exist to make the world a better place.  If you do have those illusions, you will want to read this.  If you still believe in Lean In, you will want to read this.  If you want to read about how crazy rich people can be, you will want to read this.  

Bonus points: If my Facebook and Instagram accounts disappear, you know someone read this.

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Review: In the Days of Rain: A Daughter, a Father, a Cult

In the Days of Rain: A Daughter, a Father, a Cult by Rebecca Stott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In the Days of Rain: A Daughter, a Father, a Cult by Rebecca Stott is her story, but also her father's story.  Before he passed away, Rebecca's father was attempting to write his memoir.  He got stuck in a period of his life and never finished.  Rebecca honors him by doing the work to finally get the rest of the story down.  It is quite the story!  Rebecca grew up in a religious group that has had many names and splintered factions.  Her father at one point is even in the leadership of the group.  While Rebecca makes peace with her father, he wasn't an angel by any stretch of the imagination.  This book will appeal to anyone who is also interested in non-mainstream religions and cults.  

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Review: The One

The One by John Marrs
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The One by John Marrs is the first book in the Dark Future series.  I read book three first not realizing it was a series.  There were references to this book but not really spoilers.  I feel like you could read them in any order or just as standalones.  

The premise of The One really appealed to me.  A genetic test will reveal who your perfect match is.  That's it.  The test doesn't care about how they look, how old they are, where they are, what their gender identity is.  You can choose to act on the information or ignore it.  It will even cost you less than the current DNA tests available.  It sounds like a no-brainer.  The One follows the stories of several people who interact with the program and what happens to them.  Apparently, being matched with your soulmate isn't always a recipe for happily ever after.  I was engrossed.  This is not full-on dystopian fiction, but it is a bit dark.  

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Review: The List

The List by Steve Berry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader's Copy of The List by Steve Berry from Grand Central Publishing via NetGalley.  This book is available for purchase now.  

I am an avid reader of Steve Berry's books.  I have read the entire Cotton Malone series.  When I saw The List coming out, I couldn't wait to read it.  The List is not part of the Cotton Malone series.  It is also a bit different from that series.  This feels more like a John Grisham novel.  When I got to the end, I realized that Steve Berry recognized that as well.  I say all that in case you pick this up thinking you will get more Malone and are wondering why you are reading about Southern lawyers.  Surprise!  But seriously, this book scares me.  If a company isn't already doing what this book suggests, I feel like we are not far from a future where they will.  Sure, we don't see a lot of company towns these days although we might soon as companies look to diversify to increase profit.  I am being intentionally vague because I don't want to give away the big reveal.  However, it will reveal itself pretty early on in the book. You don't really need to fear spoilers.  If you like legal thrillers, you will want to read The List.

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Review: Westward Women: A Novel

Westward Women: A Novel by Alice Martin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader's Copy of Westward Women: A Novel by Alice Martin from St. Martin's Press via NetGalley. It will be published in March 2026.  

I will confess that I agreed to read Westward Women by Alice Martin because as a young girl, I used to watch Westward the Women every time it was on television.  I haven't seen it in ages and don't remember if it is problematic, but I was just so fascinated with these women who were compelled to go west no matter what obstacles they encountered.  Westward Women is like a modern, fever dream version of that.  Nobody knows why women get the itch and have to compulsively start heading west.  The same thing that compels them to move also affects them in other ways physically and mentally, making them vulnerable.  Some try to travel in groups or rely on the kindness of strangers to get them where they are drawn to go.  Of course, not everybody they encounter has good intentions.  The story is told from the perspective of a few different women.  All of them are searching for something.  All of them are hoping to find what they are looking for before whatever this thing is completely debilitates them.  Despite what happens, I still found myself wanting to go on a road trip.

Bonus points for Winnie, worth remembering.  

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Review: Best Wishes from The Full Moon Coffee Shop

Best Wishes from The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader's Copy of Best Wishes from The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Mai Mochizuki from Ballantine Books via NetGalley.  This book is set to be published at the end of October 2025.

Best Wishes from The Full Moon Coffee Shop is the second book in the Full Moon Coffee Shop series by Mai Mochizuki.  While there are a few references to the first book, you could read this as a standalone.  If you do though, there might be a few first book spoilers.  If you don't care about that, enjoy them at will!  I will also say that this book might be best enjoyed around the winter holidays.  I couldn't wait that long.  Like the first book, the chapters of this book follow the story of a character and how they end up at the Full Moon Coffee Shop.  There is also a certain amount of overlap in the stories.  Every character learns something and often it is not to assume you know what someone else is thinking or their motivations.  Sometimes, you have to give people the benefit of the doubt.  

I can't decide if the best part of the coffee shop is that it is a cat cafe (IYKYK) or that they don't take orders and custom-make the food and beverages to each specific customer.  I am dying to know what I would get.  Astrology also plays an important part in these stories.  If you have ever wanted to learn more about birth charts and how the planets influence your life, this is a fun way to get a beginner course.  If astrology is not your thing, I would still encourage you to read this if you like animals or an adorable cafe.  I will warn you that I cried at the end.

Bonus points for Rin.  What a wonderful friend!

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Review: Carl's Doomsday Scenario

Carl's Doomsday Scenario by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Carl's Doomsday Scenario is the second book in the Dungeon Crawler Carl series by Matt Dinniman.  You definitely want to start with book one and read in order.  The story is like playing a video game and each book builds on events from the previous.  So yes, there are cliffhangers.  Yes, if you like the book, you will probably be committing yourself to reading the rest of the books.  I, personally, am all in.  I actually have to force myself to read other things rather than immediately start the next book because I want to draw out the experience.  Book two picks up right where book one left off.  We've made it out of training and now the real trials begin.  Carl still has Donut and a rapidly growing velociraptor by his side.  What could possibly go wrong?  Although training is over, there is still a lot to learn if Carl and crew are going to survive.  They've picked up some friends and made more than a couple of enemies.  As exciting and thrilling as the adventure part is, these books are also laugh-out-loud funny.  I highly recommend these books to gamers but also to anyone who likes dystopian fiction that doesn't take itself too seriously.


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Review: One Perfect Couple

One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware went by so fast I'm not even sure when I read it all.  I started reading and then the next thing I knew, it was over.  In case you are wondering, that is a good thing.  It was so engrossing.  Five couples travel to a remote tropical island to compete in a reality TV show that is a cross between Love Island and Survivor to see who will be crowned the perfect couple.  A tropical storm has other plans for the production and soon the Survivor-part of the game isn't just a game anymore.  The story is told in various formats including transcripts of radio messages and diary entries.  Not everything adds up though, and you really won't know who to trust.

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Review: It Had to Be You

It Had to Be You by Mary Higgins Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It Had to Be You is the eighth book in the Under Suspicion series by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke.  You don't have to start from the beginning of the series to read this although there are references to previous books.  If you want to avoid spoilers if you decide to go back, you may want to start with book one.  At the same time, each book is a self-contained mystery so you can be one and done.  I was so excited to see there was a new Under Suspicion book because I thought the series might be over with the passing of Mary Higgins Clark.  I am so glad that Alafair Burke was able to publish this!  The whole series is about a true crime reality TV show that successfully attempts to solve cold cases.  This particular story involved twins who separately or together may have killed their parents.  While they were never convicted, the brothers even suspect each other!  You have to read the book to find out what happens when you start digging up the past and seriously investigating all the possible suspects.  

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Review: You Are Fatally Invited

You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego is like reading a game of Clue.  I had such a good time trying to figure out who dunnit and how.  The story is told through alternating perspectives, so you can never be quite sure if you are getting the full truth.  And there is enough overlap in the characters' back stories to allow for red herrings.  I highly recommend this if you like a good locked room-type of mystery or playing Clue.  

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Review: The Entirely True Story of the Fantastical Mesmerist Nora Grey

The Entirely True Story of the Fantastical Mesmerist Nora Grey by Kathleen Kaufman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader's Copy of The Entirely True Story of the Fantastical Mesmerist Nora Grey by Kathleen Kaufman from Kensington Publishing via NetGalley.  This book is available for sale now.

I will confess that when the publisher reached out to me and said that I could have some tarot cards themed after the book if I wanted to read it, I said yes.  I would have read it even without the tarot card enticement, but I really love tarot card decks.  Whether you believe in what you get from the readings or not, they can be quite beautiful pieces of art.  As you can probably guess, the title character, Nora Grey, has a connection to the tarot.  Nora's story is told through an interweaving of narratives between her and her grandmother who also used tarot.  The cards connect them in an unexpected way.  I enjoy reading about the spiritualist movement and the men and women who made a living talking to spirits.  Some were clearly charlatans and yet, there are some people who do seem to have a gift.  Nora is one of them.  I won't give any more away, but if you are into seances, ghosts, mesmerism, and talking to dead people, you should read this. 

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Review: The Haunting of Maddy Clare

The Haunting of Maddy Clare by Simone St. James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I listened to the audiobook version of The Haunting of Maddy Clare written by Simone St. James and narrated by Pamela Garelick.  This is the kind of book that works well in any format.  You don't lose anything by listening, and it goes by very quickly.  I listened to the whole thing in a day.

The story follows paranormal researchers investigating the poltergiestish haunting of a barn by a mysterious young woman who was believed to have taken her own life there.  She's pretty scary, and she does not like men very much.  It didn't take much for me to guess why, but this is set in the past so people weren't so quick to put two and two together.  Or if they did, they didn't express it because that wasn't the thing to do.  Ghosts aside, there is a romance blooming here too.  That wasn't my favorite part but some people might like a little spice with their ghosts.  If you like a good ghost story and don't mind some mushy bits, check this out.

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Review: Let Them Stare: A Novel

Let Them Stare: A Novel by Jonathan Van Ness
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Let Them Stare: A Novel by Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy from Storytide via NetGalley. This book is currently available for purchase.

There is a lot to love about Let Them Stare: A Novel by Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy. First of all, that cover! Who doesn't want to read a book with such a fantastic cover???? In a time when plenty of people viciously hate anyone that is different, it is nice to read a story that encourages you to love yourself and embrace who you are. I don't want to spoil too much but there is a ghost and a mystery. Come on, this is like Scooby Doo! This does fall into the young adult category, so you can safely read it without being worried about real scares. You may want to wrap yourself in a blanket and have a yummy beverage though while you consume it. We all deserve an uplifting book these days.

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Review: Kills Well with Others

Kills Well with Others by Deanna Raybourn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kills Well with Others is the second book in the Killers of a Certain Age series by Deanna Raybourn.  While you could pick this book up independently, I highly recommend reading the first book first so you get acquainted with the characters and how they came to be where they are when this book opens.   That said, these books are a lot of fun if you don't mind a bit of blood and action.  Some people might grossly underestimate these women because they are of a certain age.  That is a huge mistake.  Their adventures are very entertaining.  I only wish I had half their survival skills.  But maybe not if it means other people want to kill me.  I can only hope that in a few more years, I will still be spry enough to potentially be recruited as an assassin.   

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Review: An Inquiry Into Love and Death

An Inquiry Into Love and Death by Simone St. James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I listened to An Inquiry Into Love and Death written by Simone St. James and narrated by Rosalyn Landor.  Either audiobook or written format are great ways to consume this.  It is not so complex that you lose the plot while listening.  It also went by very quickly.  I finished it in a day.  

Simone St. James is always a great choice for a good ghost story.  This one is no exception.  This one has a somewhat gothic feel to it.  Young woman inherits an estate in a haunted area full of quirky locals who may or may not be dangerous.  A dashing inspector comes out to investigate the death of her relative even though nobody necessarily suspects foul play.  Sparks but not so much that it overwhelms the spooky bits.  It is a little bit Jane Austen meets Shirley Jackson.  

Bonus points for Sultana and Poseidon.

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Review: The Mysterious Flame of Queen Loana

The Mysterious Flame of Queen Loana by Umberto Eco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Under normal circumstances, I would never choose to listen to a book written by Umberto Eco because the writing is so dense, but if it is the only version the library has, I have no choice!  The Mysterious Flame of Queen Loana written by Umberto Eco and narrated by George Guidall is the last book of Eco's that I hadn't read.  I have put this one off for so long because I didn't want to have a to be read list absent of his writing.  However, the time had to come at some point.  The Mysterious Flame of Queen Loana reminded me bit of his book, Baudalino.  It is the story of a man, told from his perspective.  In this case, he has lost the memory of who he is and is finding himself again through his interactions with the world.  I didn't really like the main character, but I did find it fascinating to think about the issues he raised in relation to myself.  For example, if you didn't know anything about yourself, but all your friends and family told you that you were XYZ, wouldn't you wonder why or how that came to be and what it said about you?  I did.  That is also what I will miss about not having another new (to me) Eco to read.  He always makes me think on a very deep level.  His work is great brain food.  

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Review: Sin Eater: A Novel

Sin Eater: A Novel by Megan Campisi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I listened to the audiobook version of Sin Eater: A Novel written by Megan Campisi and narrated by Shiromi Arserio.  Normally, I would prefer to read a book like this, but my library only had the audiobook version.  It is a very rich story with vivid descriptions that I feel get a little lost when you are listening.  But better an audio version than nothing.  If you are not already familiar with sin eaters, they were real people who would absolve people of their sins by eating specific foods that correlated to each sin. By eating the sin, they took it upon their own soul.  It is heavy.  While they provided the most valuable of services, they were also social pariahs.  The sin eater in this book gets drawn into a mystery thriller.  I think the best part was hearing which foods went with which sins and guessing why that might be.  But as a vegetarian with food allergies, this book made me itchy. 

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Review: Stories Are Weapons: Psychological Warfare and the American Mind

Stories Are Weapons: Psychological Warfare and the American Mind by Annalee Newitz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I listened to Stories Are Weapons: Psychological Warfare and the American Mind written by Annalee Newitz and narrated by Alexandra Cohler.  I only listened to this because that was the version that was available.  I actually think I would want to go back and read it so I can absorb more of the content and really sit with some of the examples.  

Sadly, Annalee Newitz couldn't have picked a better time to release Stories Are Weapons.  This is one of the most important books people can read right now.  Annalee digs into the history of propaganda and how it is used to mold our minds.  Annalee's writing is always engaging, and I found I wanted to keep going long after the book was over.  I want to take psy ops classes!  They have laid out a perfect case for why everyone should be critically thinking about the information we are consuming on a daily basis and ensuring we have responsible sources.  Even if you aren't a history buff, the examples were compelling, and I learned a lot about topics I thought I already knew well. If you only add one book to your to-be-read list this year, make it this one (and then read it!).

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Review: For the First Time, Again

For the First Time, Again by Sylvain Neuvel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

For the First Time, Again is the third book in the Take Them to the Stars series by Sylvain Neuvel.  You could start reading here although you would be better served by starting with book one and reading in order.  The stories and characters build on each other.  However, they can be read as standalone and you will still understand what is going on.  

If you like cunning female protagonists with a good dose of space talk, this is the perfect series for you.  I am not very good at math and science, but I really find learning about the space program and space exploration fascinating.  And while there might be some alternate history in here, much of it is grounded in fact.  It is also still easy enough to understand for the non-nerd. 

Bonus points for having a soundtrack to listen to while you read.  I loved that the chapter titles are songs and what a kick ass playlist!

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Review: We'll Prescribe You a Cat

We'll Prescribe You a Cat by Syou Ishida
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We'll Prescribe You a Cat is the first book in the We'll Prescribe You a Cat series by Syou Ishida.  I would start here because it sets up the backstory for future books.  Cat lovers will totally understand why cats are the perfect prescription for whatever ails you (except maybe cat allergies).  This fantastical tale involves a mysterious clinic that seems to pop up just when you need it and has a cat that can cure your troubles even if you don't see how it might be possible.  The doctor and nurse are just as mysterious and have their own secrets. 

Warning: If you don't already have cats, reading this may make you want to adopt one immediately. 

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Review: End of Story

End of Story by A.J. Finn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

End of Story by A. J. Finn will keep you guessing up until the end (of story).  If a writer I admired asked me to spend their last months with them so I can write their story, I would jump at the chance, and I am not even a good writer.  Would I hesitate if if there was a question as to whether they had killed their spouse and child, maybe, but the temptation would be great.  I like a mystery.  I would be tempted to try to get some answers.  It was giving me Rebecca vibes, and I adore that book.  Everyone seems to have a secret.  Will you live long enough to find out what they all are?

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Review: The Killer Question

The Killer Question by Janice Hallett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure:  I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of The Killer Question by Janice Hallett from Atria Books via NetGalley. The book is set to be published September 25, 2025. 

I was so excited to read The Killer Question by Janice Hallett.  Not only have I enjoyed all of Hallett's books because I love her style of writing, this one involves pub quizzes!  I am such a trivia nerd.  I could only have been happier reading this if the quizzes had been included.  But don't worry, there is plenty of trivia included even without the full quizzes.  Much of the story is told through text exchanges.  That gives all the characters another layer of personality.  The story has a few different mysteries going on.  There is one in the past, the murder in the present, and one involving potential cheating on the quiz circuit.  It will keep your brain buzzing.  If you like a good game of trivia, give this book a read.

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Review: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix felt a little different from his other books.  There is still the horror element and the great pop culture references.  There is even a little bit of humor.  However, you feel that there is a more important story to tell.  It is one that still happens today even if we don't hear about it.  Young, unwed, pregnant women and girls parceled off to a location to have their babies to avoid shaming their families.  Not surprisingly, there is often a religious element to it.  To the shame, that is.  The babies are most often put up for adoption.  Whether that is really what the young mother wants is up for debate and usually doesn't matter.  It is a reminder of how much ground we lost when Roe vs. Wade was overturned.  Ultimately, the book left me wanting to give all these girls a hug because compassion goes a lot further than shame.

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Review: Lessons in Magic and Disaster

Lessons in Magic and Disaster by Charlie Jane Anders
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of Lessons in Magic and Disaster by Charlie Jane Anders from Tor Books via NetGalley.  The book will be published around August 19, 2025.  You can preorder a copy now.

Lessons in Magic and Disaster by Charlie Jane Anders is a touching story of family and love in its many facets.  While the title tells you there will be magic involved, I found the part about literature to be really compelling.  I loved the quotes that opened the chapters and learning more about female writers in the 1700s. Could we get a copy of the dissertation as bonus content?  I would read that.  If you want a book that sort of hugs you like a warm blanket but also doesn't shy away from the darker side of life, you'll want to check this out.  

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Review: The Retreat

The Retreat by Gemma Fairclough
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of The Retreat by Gemma Fairclough from Wild Hunt Books.  It is currently available for purchase from their website.

The Retreat by Gemma Fairclough is a novella from The Northern Weird Project.  The project features books about strange happenings in Northern England.  The Retreat appealed to me because it is told in a nontraditional way (through interviews and journal-type entries) but also involves a wellness retreat that might be a cult.  It was really engrossing.  I could have read even more.  And while this is fiction, it tracks with the stories you hear of so many wellness scams.  Maybe they don't have mysterious entities punishing the less devoted, but you never know!  If you are into books about cults, mysterious disappearances, and/or wellness, give this one a go.  

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Review: OtherLife

OtherLife by Jason Segel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OtherLife is the third book in the Last Reality series by Jason Segel and Kirsten Miller.  You will definitely want to read the books in order.  I let a lot of time lapse between the last one and this one because I wasn't ready for the series to be over.  I didn't have any trouble remembering what was going on after a few pages in.  This book is considered YA, but it is just as appealing to an adult reader. If you like LitRPG and/or video games, this series is a great choice.  The world is so vibrant and the addition of virtual reality and alternate reality gaming makes you wonder what the future looks like for gamers.  Hopefully, there won't be sinister game companies.  Maybe I am being naive.  

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Review: Annie Bot

Annie Bot by Sierra Greer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I listened to the audiobook version of Annie Bot written by Sierra Greer and narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya simply because that was the version the library had available.  I think it would be great in any format.  The story is more than just some guy falling in love with his android.  There have been similar concept pieces, but Annie Bot is really about Annie and her journey of self discovery.  The guy could be anybody.  Or maybe he couldn't.  Because he is who he is, Annie has developed in a certain way.  Annie doesn't have the benefit of seeing red flags like other women.  I couldn't help but want to tell her to RUN.  Not everybody has that luxury, especially when you are considered property.  Lots to think about with this one.  Would also love to see a sequel.  

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Review: If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You

If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You by Leigh Stein
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You by Leigh Stein from Ballantine Books via NetGalley. It will be out around August 26, 2025.

With a title like  If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You, Leigh Stein has already got you hooked.  I mean, could it be any clearer that you need to read this?  I was also drawn into descriptions of a Gothic, potentially haunted mansion and tarot card readings.  Yes, please!  The mystery surrounds what happened to the very popular tarot card reader living in the hype house when she suddenly disappears.  A new member of the house is determined to find out.  The machine behind Internet celebrity is also quite fascinating to read about.  This might be fiction but that part seems based in a decent amount of reality.  And while I don't spend much time on social media, I probably would get sucked into a series of videos that offered up a mystery.  And if a random video popped up on my feed that was titled  If You're Seeing This, It's Meant for You, I just might watch it.  If you are reading this, you are meant to read this book.

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Review: Dungeon Crawler Carl

Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm a gamer, so it is no surprise that Dungeon Crawler Carl kept being recommended to me by the universe.  Dungeon Crawler Carl is the first book of the LitRPG series of the same name by Matt Dinniman.  Although I haven't read any others yet, you will want to start here and read them in order because I'm guessing they follow the progression of Carl's journey through the dungeon created when Earth was reclaimed.  If Carl wins, he can inherit the Earth.  Most likely though, he will die long before that happens because  it is designed for people to lose.  Carl is lucky though.  He entered the dungeon with his ex-girlfriend's cat, and she wants to WIN.  Yes, the cat is what drew me into reading this.  I do enjoy LitRPG, and this is one of the best I've read.  I couldn't put it down.  

Bonus points for Grand Champion, Breed Winner Regional, National Winner Princess Donut the Queen Anne Chonk.  Carl's name may be in the title, but she is the true star.

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Review: Truth Truth Lie

Truth Truth Lie by Claire McGowan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Truth Truth Lie by Claire McGowan is a pretty intense read. I wasn't sure I would be into reading a book about a rich group of friends who go to an isolated private island for a weekend birthday celebration. Then they decide to play Two Truths and a Lie and all hell breaks loose. The secrets start coming out and very bad things happen. But, who is responsible? Could be anyone or everyone! Could you survive 48 hours with just your friends and no WiFi? Apparently, it is not for everyone. Don't read if you are squeamish.

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Review: Moonflower Murders

Moonflower Murders by Anthony Horowitz
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moonflower Murders is the second book in the Susan Ryeland series by Anthony Horowitz.  You don't have to read the first book, but there are references to characters and events that happened in it that are helpful to know.  I'm not sure if I really like Susan Ryeland, but I find these mysteries really interesting to try and solve along with her.  The other fun thing about these books is that they have a book within a book.  The other book is written in a different style with different characters but gives you clues that help you figure out whodunnit in the original plot.  Very clever!  

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Review: Keep It in the Family

Keep It in the Family by John Marrs
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Keep It in the Family by John Marrs is a mystery told through alternating points of view and some epistolary forms.  A family finds dead bodies in the house they are renovating.  Since the bodies are in suitcases, they probably didn't die from natural causes.  There was a serial killer at work.  Trying to figure out who did it gets a bit crazy after that.  This is one where if you think you know who did it, you probably don't.

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Review: The Last Murder at the End of the World

The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Last Murder at the End of the World by Stuart Turton is more than a murder mystery.  In a utopic society, murder is unthinkable.  Yet, it happened.  If it doesn't get solved in 48 hours, the whole world will come to an end.  No pressure, right?  The person chosen to solve the crime is pretty unique and has the sole qualification of having read mysteries before.  Again, no pressure.  In the process of solving the murder, they uncover all sorts of other disturbing secrets.  There's a lot to think about here.

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Review: El Dorado Drive

El Dorado Drive by Megan Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Full Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader's Copy of El Dorado Drive by Megan Abbott from Penguin Group Putnam via NetGalley.  It will be published around June 24, 2025.  

El Dorado Drive by Megan Abbott is about three sisters, struggling to make ends meet, who get swept up in a pyramid scheme.  There can be a lot of money earned for those who get in early. It can solve some problems and create plenty of others.  The interplay among the sisters felt realistic.  I kept thinking that this is why my mother said never to have three children.  There are also plenty of secrets that keep you guessing up until the end.  

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Review: The Refrigerator Monologues

The Refrigerator Monologues by Catherynne M. Valente
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Refrigerator Monologues by Catherynne M. Valente is a fantastic tribute to all the women in comic books.  With few exceptions, these are usually the girlfriends or love interests of the superhero.  They are always put in peril.  They are often seen as the damsel in distress.  The archnemesis usually kills them.  It's awful.  The Refrigerator Monologues gives them their own voice to tell their own stories.  The truth behind the superhero fantasy.  You won't see any of these characters in a Marvel or DC comic, but I bet you will recognize an echo of them.  That was kind of fun.  I could read an entire series of these.  In fact, can we have more please?  I feel like there are plenty of characters in Deadtown to discover.

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