Devi Nair
not my type
did not finish
Did not finish
Storyline was way too slow, ended up on my DNF list
Storyline was way too slow, ended up on my DNF list
not my type of book
The Cursed Writer is a cozy mystery with a strong Hound of Baskerville vibe, perfect for Sherlock Holmes fans. Holly Hepburn brings classic detective energy to Harriet ‘Harry’ White, a sharp and determined protagonist, who handles a gripping investigation with the finesse of Sherlock Holmes.
Set in 1930s London, the novel beautifully evokes the era’s atmosphere, while offering an empowering outlook on women’s roles through Harry’s confident and resourceful character. The plot maintains a steady pace with clever deductions and well-crafted suspense. As the second book in the Baker Street Mystery series, The Cursed Writer builds on the first installment and sets the stage for a promising third.
A special highlight of the audiobook is Sophie Roberts’ narration. Her authentic old English accent vividly brings to life the setting from London’s bustling streets to the long-forgotten villages and outskirts. Her voice enriches the immersive experience of this classic detective tale.
Overall, this book is a rewarding read (and listen, if you are an audiobook lover like me) for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy clever plots, engaging characters, and atmospheric storytelling. Holly Hepburn is an amazing talent in the genre, and with narrators like Sophie Roberts bringing her work to life, the series promises to captivate fans for years to come.
Originally posted at viewsshewrites.wordpress.com.
The Cursed Writer is a cozy mystery with a strong Hound of Baskerville vibe, perfect for Sherlock Holmes fans. Holly Hepburn brings classic detective energy to Harriet ‘Harry’ White, a sharp and determined protagonist, who handles a gripping investigation with the finesse of Sherlock Holmes.
Set in 1930s London, the novel beautifully evokes the era’s atmosphere, while offering an empowering outlook on women’s roles through Harry’s confident and resourceful character. The plot maintains a steady pace with clever deductions and well-crafted suspense. As the second book in the Baker Street Mystery series, The Cursed Writer builds on the first installment and sets the stage for a promising third.
A special highlight of the audiobook is Sophie Roberts’ narration. Her authentic old English accent vividly brings to life the setting from London’s bustling streets to the long-forgotten villages and outskirts. Her voice enriches the immersive experience of this classic detective tale.
Overall, this book is a rewarding read (and listen, if you are an audiobook lover like me) for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy clever plots, engaging characters, and atmospheric storytelling. Holly Hepburn is an amazing talent in the genre, and with narrators like Sophie Roberts bringing her work to life, the series promises to captivate fans for years to come.
Originally posted at viewsshewrites.wordpress.com.
DNF
My Sister the Serial Killer is a darkly comic thriller set in contemporary Nigeria, blending sharp satire with a gripping mystery. The novel centers on Korede, a nurse, whose younger sister Ayoola has a habit of dispatching her boyfriends in self-defense. Korede, torn between family loyalty and morality, finds herself clearing up Ayoola’s bloody messes while grappling with her own feelings for a doctor Ayoola begins dating.
While the premise promises a clever and twisted look at sibling dynamics, morality, and violence framed in black humor, I found it challenging to engage with the narrative. Although I understand the satirical intent, the theme of enabling a serial killer did not resonate with me, making it difficult to connect emotionally or even intellectually with the characters or the story. The tension between love and moral obligation is interesting in theory but did not captivate me as a reader.
This book was read as part of the July Goodreads Challenge featuring acclaimed titles, and while it offers a unique Nigerian perspective and a fresh take on thriller conventions, it did not match my expectations for engagement or relatability.
Originally posted at viewsshewrites.wordpress.com.
DNF
My Sister the Serial Killer is a darkly comic thriller set in contemporary Nigeria, blending sharp satire with a gripping mystery. The novel centers on Korede, a nurse, whose younger sister Ayoola has a habit of dispatching her boyfriends in self-defense. Korede, torn between family loyalty and morality, finds herself clearing up Ayoola’s bloody messes while grappling with her own feelings for a doctor Ayoola begins dating.
While the premise promises a clever and twisted look at sibling dynamics, morality, and violence framed in black humor, I found it challenging to engage with the narrative. Although I understand the satirical intent, the theme of enabling a serial killer did not resonate with me, making it difficult to connect emotionally or even intellectually with the characters or the story. The tension between love and moral obligation is interesting in theory but did not captivate me as a reader.
This book was read as part of the July Goodreads Challenge featuring acclaimed titles, and while it offers a unique Nigerian perspective and a fresh take on thriller conventions, it did not match my expectations for engagement or relatability.
Originally posted at viewsshewrites.wordpress.com.
Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics, the second book in Chris Grabenstein’s Mr. Lemoncello's Library series, is a thrilling and heartwarming continuation that blends intellectual challenges with vibrant characters and meaningful themes. As a fan of the series, I found this installment to be an absolute joy, packed with clever puzzles and a celebration of teamwork and perseverance.
The puzzles in Library Olympics are a highlight, offering a delightful mix of brainteasers that are accessible yet engaging for readers of all ages. As an adult, I loved diving into these challenges, which are seamlessly woven into the narrative, making you feel like a participant in the whimsical competition. They strike a perfect balance of fun and intellect, encouraging creative thinking without being overly complex.
Grabenstein excels at portraying the dynamics of pre-teen life with authenticity and care. The story follows Kyle Keeley and his friends—Sierra Russell, Akimi Hughes, Miguel Fernandez, and others—as they compete in the Library Olympics, a nationwide contest orchestrated by the eccentric Mr. Lemoncello. The friendships shine through, with moments of camaraderie and support that highlight the value of working together, even amidst fierce competition. The subtle undercurrents of rivalry and bullying are handled with nuance, showing how kids navigate these challenges with growing maturity.
A standout aspect is the way Grabenstein emphasizes the joy of learning and reading over mere victory. The book celebrates libraries as places of wonder and discovery, a message that resonates deeply. Kyle’s leadership and his family’s supportive, fun-loving dynamic add warmth, reinforcing that the journey and connections made along the way matter more than the outcome.
Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics is a captivating blend of adventure, puzzles, and heart. It’s a fantastic read for anyone who loves stories that challenge the mind and uplift the spirit, making it a worthy sequel in this beloved series.
Originally posted at viewsshewrites.wordpress.com.
Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics, the second book in Chris Grabenstein’s Mr. Lemoncello's Library series, is a thrilling and heartwarming continuation that blends intellectual challenges with vibrant characters and meaningful themes. As a fan of the series, I found this installment to be an absolute joy, packed with clever puzzles and a celebration of teamwork and perseverance.
The puzzles in Library Olympics are a highlight, offering a delightful mix of brainteasers that are accessible yet engaging for readers of all ages. As an adult, I loved diving into these challenges, which are seamlessly woven into the narrative, making you feel like a participant in the whimsical competition. They strike a perfect balance of fun and intellect, encouraging creative thinking without being overly complex.
Grabenstein excels at portraying the dynamics of pre-teen life with authenticity and care. The story follows Kyle Keeley and his friends—Sierra Russell, Akimi Hughes, Miguel Fernandez, and others—as they compete in the Library Olympics, a nationwide contest orchestrated by the eccentric Mr. Lemoncello. The friendships shine through, with moments of camaraderie and support that highlight the value of working together, even amidst fierce competition. The subtle undercurrents of rivalry and bullying are handled with nuance, showing how kids navigate these challenges with growing maturity.
A standout aspect is the way Grabenstein emphasizes the joy of learning and reading over mere victory. The book celebrates libraries as places of wonder and discovery, a message that resonates deeply. Kyle’s leadership and his family’s supportive, fun-loving dynamic add warmth, reinforcing that the journey and connections made along the way matter more than the outcome.
Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics is a captivating blend of adventure, puzzles, and heart. It’s a fantastic read for anyone who loves stories that challenge the mind and uplift the spirit, making it a worthy sequel in this beloved series.
Originally posted at viewsshewrites.wordpress.com.