Devi Nair

I absolutely adored Everytime I Go on Vacation, Someone Dies by Catherine Mack! I first read it on a flight and found myself wanting to hide the cover and not scare my neighbors with such a cheeky title. Haha! Eleanor Dash, the protagonist, is truly a delight, and the footnotes sprinkled throughout the book are nothing short of brilliant. They add such a unique and witty flavor to the story that I couldn’t get enough of them.

Naturally, then I had to listen to the audiobook version, and the narrator Elizabeth Evans absolutely did not disappoint. Her timing with the footnotes were so natural. It felt as if a close friend was telling me the story in person, sharing all the unfiltered commentary with perfect comic timing. The cozy, conversational vibe she creates made me almost forget I was listening to an audiobook rather than chatting with a friend.

The mystery itself is smooth and engaging, with a steady pace that never falters. The characters are wonderfully well-developed, even with their flaws. Through Eleanor’s narration and the footnotes, you feel exactly what the author wants you to feel for each character. After reading and listening to this book, I’m officially a fan of footnotes and their clever impact on storytelling.

There are cozy mysteries, and then there are COZY MYSTERIES. For me, they’re like palate cleansers after more intense reads, and Carol J. Perry always hits the spot. Be My Ghost starts off light, but before you know it, there’s a body, and then the guessing game begins. By 20%, I had narrowed down my suspects to two: one straightforward option fitting an easy mystery, and one possible plot twist that, while fitting, I hoped wouldn’t be the choice. She went with the cozy choice, and it was exactly right. The flow was so comforting that I immediately put my “serious” TBR on hold to continue this series (only four books out so far!).

As for narration, C.S.E. Cooney’s performance is a true highlight. Her soothing, warm voice and perfect pacing make Maureen’s (and Finn’s) journey feel authentic and comforting, whether listened to at normal or faster speed. She knows exactly when to pause or elevate her voice, making the audiobook experience a joy.

Maureen, the protagonist, along with her Golden retriever Finn, feels like the perfect cozy mystery duo. This book is a perfect mix of heart, humor, and mystery, exactly what a cozy should be.

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.

I dove into Killers of a Certain Age with stars in my eyes. Women in their 60s as elite assassins? Yes, please! The premise promised a fresh spin on the thriller genre, blending experience with undercover grit.

But a few chapters in, my hype hit a wall. Instead of the seasoned, cohesive team I expected, Billy, Mary Alice, Helen, and Natalie came off like typical old people trying to relive their "cool" days boasting "I could've done that better" without actually doing it. Their constant bickering, and really silly mistakes (while undercover, mind you!) felt like a teenage clique, not a squad with decades of shared covert ops experience. Why the need to one-up each other like they're auditioning for a superhero flick? The insecurity in their 60s felt jarring like, haven't you proven yourselves after 40 years? The plot had sparks: a betrayal-fueled retirement cruise, dodging the Museum's hit squad, and some clever twists. But the action often took a backseat to their peacocking, which dulled the suspense.

Raybourn's writing had wit, and the ladies' backstories hint at depth, but the focus on their "who's the coolest" contest left me craving more substance. There's a second book in the series, Kills Well with Others, but I wouldn't dare take on that challenge.

While Tinsel Trickery had the cozy holiday vibe typical of the series, it didn't quite capture my attention or emotions. The story flowed smoothly enough, making it suitable as light background reading, but it lacked the spark that makes a book memorable.
Unfortunately, I couldn't really connect with any of the characters, which made the stakes feel low. The romantic subplot between the main character and her boyfriend fell flat due to a lack of believable chemistry, which was disappointing in a genre that often thrives on warm, engaging relationships.
Overall, it's an easy read if you want something seasonal without too much depth, but it didn't stand out for me.
Star rating rounding off from 2.5

Having reviewed the first book in the series, Bury the Lead, I was excited to return to Port Ellis. This sequel, Widows and Orphans, raises the stakes and deepens the emotional core.

Widows and Orphans, the second installment of the Quill & Packet mystery series, is a sharp step up from the first. The plot is tighter, the mystery more layered, and the stakes, both personal and professional, are deeply felt. The story cleverly folds in current issues like influencer culture, media ethics, and the politics of public opinion, all while grounding us in the warm, chaotic newsroom of Port Ellis.

Maryne Young picks up much better in this one, and the connection to all of the characters in the audiobook is instant. I especially loved how Cat’s relationships deepened with all of her family members, and with the staff at the Quill & Packet. The connection she is building with Amir is handled with subtlety and warmth, adding emotional depth without overwhelming the plot.

While the mystery kept me hooked, it’s the characters and their connections that lingered. Kate Hilton and Elizabeth Renzetti have brought more soul to this sequel. They reveal that a mystery isn’t just about who did it. It’s also about who we are to each other when everything’s on the line.

dnf

Alright, let’s spill the tea on A Cold Case by Peter Turnbull. I was pumped for a gritty mystery with Maurice Mundy, this rogue detective stirring up old murders. But, y’all, I tapped out at 10%. Chapter one hit me with an avalanche of details—clothing, surroundings, you name it. Five pages in, I was lost in a fog of descriptions, forgetting what the story was even about. I love a vivid setting, but this felt like reading a furniture catalog with a side of tweed jackets. I wanted to vibe with Mundy’s maverick energy, but the pacing was slower than my grandma’s knitting circle. Maybe it picks up later, but my attention span said, “Nah, we’re good.” I’m all for deep dives into mysteries, but this one buried me in details before the plot could even say hello.

I have to admit, this one took a bit to grow on me. The concept is really clever - three bestselling authors writing a story about three best selling authors writing a story together. Inception vibes, anyone?

But, honestly, the beginning was a tough sell. The three main characters spent a lot of time pretending to be best friends, then outright admitting they aren't, just faking it for their book. The body drops almost as soon as the book starts, and the following couple of chapters are just insufferable with all the blame throwing and bickering. It felt like everyone is busy pointing fingers without much warmth, or dept at first.

That said, hang in there because the middle and second half really pick up the pace. The characters start to show more layers, and you get hints of real friendships developing beneath the surface drama. The mystery itself becomes more engaging as you piece together the clues, and the locked-room setting of the Scottish castle adds more eerie charm. The ending ties up the loose ends pretty well and even sneaks in some unexpected romance and humor. It's definitely a slow burn, but it ends on a satisfying note.

DNF

Despite being a longtime fan of Lynn Cahoon, I found An Amateur Sleuth’s Guide to Murder disappointingly dull and struggled to get past 25% of the book. Unlike Cahoon's usually engaging stories, the protagonist Meg Gates felt unrelatable and failed to draw me in. The premise of Meg writing a murder investigation guide while solving a crime had potential, but the execution fell flat for me. The pacing was slow, the mystery lacked compelling twists, and the character development didn’t resonate. I was hoping for Cahoon’s signature cozy charm and gripping narrative but instead found myself disengaged throughout. While other readers have praised the charming setting and Meg’s determination, this one didn’t click with me. Fans of the author might enjoy it more, but for me, it was a rare miss in an otherwise impressive catalog.

dnf again (tried 2nd time)

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle is an ambitious and highly inventive mystery thriller that challenges the reader with its complex structure. The premise of waking up in a different guest’s body across eight repeated days to solve Evelyn's murder is intriguing and original. However, my experience was marked by confusion and difficulty in following the plot, even after three attempts including once with a physical copy to focus better. The multiple perspectives and intertwining timelines created a dense narrative that felt overwhelming rather than immersive. While critics praise its cleverness and unpredictable twists, this complexity made it hard for me to stay engaged or finish the book. It’s a novel that might reward patient readers who enjoy intricate puzzles but stands as a tough read for those seeking a straightforward mystery.

(No rating, as I didn't finish the book) Thank you, NetGalley Canada, for giving me an ARC to review.

I went into this book expecting something humorous, even with the thriller element. But it turned out to be much darker and unsettling than I anticipated. I made it through 40% of the book before deciding to stop, not because it was poorly written, but because I wasn't the rigth audience for it.

The writing is incredibly effective. The first person narration of Julie by Clare Corbett is chilling and cringy, iun a way that made me feel uneasy, but also sad for her. It's that rare kind of voice that gets under your skin, which honestly made the experience stand out for me.

I won't be leaving a star rating since I didn't finish the book. But I wanted to share my thoughts in case others go in expecting something lighter. This could really work for readers who are drawn to psychological character studies, or dark, emotionally complex stories.

Just go in prepared. Jennifer Holdich knows what she is doing.

In a world where books are being banned in the name of “protecting young minds,” Kirsten Miller delivers a hilarious and biting response with heart, humor, and unforgettable characters.

Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books took me by surprise in the best way. I went in expecting a thoughtful take on censorship, but I didn’t expect to laugh so much along the way. Miller has managed to craft a story that’s genuinely funny while tackling deeply serious issues like racism, abuse of power, and the erasure of essential histories.

The cast is brilliantly done. The self-important village fool, hate-spewing gossips, a retired judge with a spine of steel, a corrupt politician hiding a criminal past, and a group of teens fighting for a more inclusive and compassionate community. The next generation stole my heart, aware of differing sexualities, ideologies, and perspectives, but united in wanting a better world.

Yes, the audiobook ran long at over 11 hours, and some scenes felt unnecessarily drawn out. But the core message? Spot on. Books like The Diary of Anne Frank and Beloved being banned is not protection. It’s denial. And the story calls that out with humor and heart.

Taylor Jenkins Reid’s After I Do is a raw and deeply honest exploration of modern marriage, examining what happens when the love that once seemed unshakable begins to fade. The premise is both unique and relatable: when Lauren and Ryan’s marriage hits rock bottom, they agree to spend a year apart, with no contact and no rules—an experiment to rediscover themselves and what they truly want from life and each other. From the outset, Reid’s writing struck me with its realism.

The characters feel like people you know—flawed, searching, and heartbreakingly sincere. Lauren’s voice is exceptionally authentic as she navigates painful questions about commitment, monogamy, and the nature of love. The book doesn’t shy away from the messiness of relationships, digging into the small slights and accumulated resentments that can undermine even the strongest unions. What makes this novel stand out is how it holds up a mirror to real life. Reid doesn’t offer easy answers; instead, she depicts the slow, challenging work of self-discovery and healing.

For me, this raw honesty became almost too much—I had to DNF (Did Not Finish) at 25% because the story hit incredibly close to home, and I found myself crying again and again. It wasn’t because the book wasn’t good. If anything, I stopped because Reid captured the pain and confusion of a troubled marriage so perfectly. After I Do might not be for everyone looking for escapism. But if you want a book that feels real, that treats love and marriage with nuance, and that isn’t afraid to make you feel deeply, this is one to pick up—if you’re ready for it.

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Women’s Fiction, Second Chance Best for: Readers who appreciate emotional authenticity, complex relationships, and second-chance stories Not for: Those seeking light romance or guaranteed happy endings without hard-earned growth Note: I didn’t finish the book—not due to any flaw in the writing, but because its reality was almost too much for me to bear. Sometimes, that’s a testament to just how powerfully a book can resonate.

DNF

The Saint of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera promises a vivid blend of fantasy, urban mysticism, and queer narrative, set in a richly imagined world where divine revolutions and cults entwine with the gritty realities of modern life. The story follows Fetter, a deeply scarred protagonist raised to kill, who navigates a city filled with mysterious "Bright Doors," enigmatic threats, and a hidden revolutionary order. The novel explores themes of identity, destiny, and transformation against a backdrop that mixes magical realism with science fiction.

Unfortunately, despite its intriguing premise, I found the book difficult to engage with. Listening to the audiobook for about 2 hours and 15 minutes (around 18% of the full length), I struggled to connect with the plot or understand what was truly happening. The main character moves through a series of seemingly random rules and experiences, accepting them without clear explanation or motivation, which left the narrative feeling fragmented and confusing. The lack of coherence made it hard to stay invested in Fetter’s journey or the larger world.

While the novel may resonate more with readers who appreciate dense, atmospheric worldbuilding or experimental storytelling, in my case, I decided to stop reading because the story didn’t provide enough clarity or emotional grounding early on. This experience may vary significantly depending on personal taste and reading style, but for me, The Saint of Bright Doors did not deliver a satisfying narrative within the portion I sampled.

DNF at 11%

I had high hopes for this festive cozy mystery featuring witches and holiday magic, but unfortunately, I couldn’t get very far. I ended up DNF’ing at just 11%. The narrator’s performance felt very bland and monotone—so much so that I would have been better off just using an auto-read feature. Her delivery didn’t draw me into the story at all, which is crucial for an audiobook, especially in a genre that thrives on charm and atmosphere.

The premise has potential—a magical wishing box, holiday inn drama, quirky family antics—but I wasn’t engaged enough to stick around and find out what happens. Normally, I give audiobooks at least 20% before quitting, but this narrator’s voice made it unbearable before that point.

Overall, if you prioritize narration and engaging voice work, this might not be the best choice in audio form.

DNF at 11%

The narrator is so bland, I could have used autoread and could have felt more engaged.

With this book, I didn't even follow the rule of at least 20% before calling it quits. Couldn't bear to hear her voice any more.

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.

I’m a huge fan of Vicki Delaney’s A Year-Round Christmas Mystery series and love spending time with the Wilkinson family: Merry, Matterhorn (or Mattie, the dog), Noel, Vicky, Alan, Dt. Diane Simmonds, and Mrs. Mabel D’Angelo.

One of my favorite moments in this book, and in all of the other books in the series, was seeing how Detective. Diane Simmonds treats Matterhorn, and how Mattie absolutely melts under her attention. The affection between them in every book makes this series so warm and real. Also, the line (or similar in other books) “I know my dad isn’t Santa Claus. But sometimes, I wonder,” really gives me goosebumps. It makes me believe in Christmas all over again, even at almost 40!

That said, O Deadly Night felt a bit underwhelming. The mystery mostly happens to Mrs. D’Angelo rather than through Merry’s sleuthing, with Merry having very little detective work except a few moments. The investigation really picks up whenever Mrs. D’Angelo is on the scene. While this fits the story’s focus, it felt like it would have worked better if the story were told from her point of view.

Still, I enjoyed the relaxed, feel-good vibe of hanging out with Merry’s family without the usual danger or tension . Overall, this story could have been a novella from Mrs. D’Angelo’s POV, but as a novel, it still offers a cozy atmosphere I love in this series.

This might be the first love story I've ever read where nothing sad happens between the couple. And honestly? It was refreshing.

Abby Jimenez delivers a romance that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket and sinking into something safe, kind, and quietly beautiful. From the moment Samantha and Xavier meet (at a vet's office, with a tiny kitten in the mix — I mean, come on), their chemistry is instant. There's banter, attraction, and genuine emotional connection from the start.

And then... nothing bad happens.

Yes, there's the issue of long distance. But no dramatic misunderstanding. No delayed confessions that spiral into arguments. The transparency both of them share, the real-life conversations they have, the safe space they hold for each other — maybe a bit too perfect — but honestly, so good to listen to. The emotional maturity between these two makes this book feel like a breath of fresh air.

And can we talk about the narration? Christine Lakin and Matt Lanter brought the characters to life so naturally. Their voices held every quiet feeling, every vulnerable moment, and every playful spark just right.

This next line will probably give it away — I am not a regular romance reader. One thing I really appreciated in this book was the very limited sex scenes, which I could fly over. The rest was just chemistry, connection, and care. (More of this, please!!)

I picked this up as part of the Goodreads Summer Chart-toppers Challenge, and I'm so glad I did. It might be a little idealistic, but sometimes, that's exactly what we need.

This might be the first love story I've ever read where nothing sad happens between the couple. And honestly? It was refreshing.

Abby Jimenez delivers a romance that feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket and sinking into something safe, kind, and quietly beautiful. From the moment Samantha and Xavier meet (at a vet's office, with a tiny kitten in the mix — I mean, come on), their chemistry is instant. There's banter, attraction, and genuine emotional connection from the start.

And then... nothing bad happens.

Yes, there's the issue of long distance. But no dramatic misunderstanding. No delayed confessions that spiral into arguments. The transparency both of them share, the real-life conversations they have, the safe space they hold for each other — maybe a bit too perfect — but honestly, so good to listen to. The emotional maturity between these two makes this book feel like a breath of fresh air.

And can we talk about the narration? Christine Lakin and Matt Lanter brought the characters to life so naturally. Their voices held every quiet feeling, every vulnerable moment, and every playful spark just right.

This next line will probably give it away — I am not a regular romance reader. One thing I really appreciated in this book was the very limited sex scenes, which I could fly over. The rest was just chemistry, connection, and care. (More of this, please!!)

I picked this up as part of the Goodreads Summer Chart-toppers Challenge, and I'm so glad I did. It might be a little idealistic, but sometimes, that's exactly what we need.

The Vacation Mystery series continues to charm with its cozy blend of celebrity glitz, wedding drama, and murder. Of course, Eleanor Dash can’t go anywhere without stumbling over a dead body. I really enjoyed the premise. It features a bestselling author who becomes a reluctant sleuth. The setting is a stormy island. It’s a best friend’s wedding where someone is clearly up to no good. It’s playful, full of winks to genre tropes, and doesn’t take itself too seriously.

That said, I did struggle a bit with the pacing. The mystery takes a long time to actually begin. The body, which dropped in the first page, doesn’t come back in the story until around the halfway mark. While I usually love a slow burn, this one lingered in the setup longer than I expected. Once the murder finally happens, things pick up nicely. But by then, the momentum had dipped a little for me.

The ending made sense. I can see how it all added up. However, it didn’t feel as satisfying as I’d hoped. The resolution went in a different direction than what I expected, after all the buildup.

Still, there’s something undeniably fun about the world Catherine Mack has created. It’s especially enjoyable for readers who like stories that play with genre. These stories blur the line between fiction and fiction-within-fiction. The setting is vibrant. The characters are entertaining. There’s a definite charm in following Eleanor from one chaotic vacation to the next. Even when the mystery takes its time unfolding, the charm remains. There’s a teaser for book three, so you’re in it for the long game, there’s more Eleanor Dash to come.