Devi Nair

Death on the Island has an intriguing premise, a murder among diplomats on a remote Icelandic island, with the ambassador’s wife drawn into the investigation.

There are strengths here. The setting is beautifully atmospheric, and Eliza Reid clearly knows and loves Iceland. The potential for a layered mystery is definitely present.

However, the story’s structure didn’t work for me. The timeline jumps back and forth repeatedly: before the first murder, after it, then before the next, and so on. While this nonlinear format can build suspense, in this case, it felt disorienting and stopped the momentum rather than enhancing it.

Character development was another area that left me wanting. With so many POVs, the voices often blurred together, making it hard to really connect. The ambassador’s wife, who seemed like a central figure at first, gradually faded into the background as the focus shifted around.

In a talk I recently attended, Eliza Reid mentioned this book is part of a planned series, with more installments expected. However, I didn’t get a strong sense of where the story or characters might go next, or a clear hook that made me eager for a follow-up.

I really wanted to like this more. The concept is compelling and the ingredients for a solid mystery are there, but they just didn’t quite come together for me.

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.

This book got off to a strong start. I really enjoyed Mona’s unique magical abilities and how close she was with her aunt and family. The initial atmosphere in the bakery, even with a murder mystery kicking things off, was engaging and set high expectations. However, as the story progressed, I found some of the characters’ reactions puzzling and a bit unrealistic, especially the way Mona’s family seemed unconcerned about her whereabouts during dangerous times.

Details like Mona traveling hours alone took me out of the narrative, making it hard to stay invested. Also, Mona’s characterization fluctuated between childlike and mature in a way that didn’t always feel intentional, impacting how believable she felt as a main character. While there was potential and moments of charm, I struggled to stay connected to the story.

The Cartographers by Peng Shepherd had me hooked from the first sentence! This fantasy-thriller weaves mystery and magical realism into a pulse-pounding tale. Nell’s investigation into her father’s death and a mysterious map is a wild ride of twists that left me gasping, “Wait, THAT’S who they are?” The idea of maps as portals to hidden worlds is brilliant, and the quote “I hope the maps are good where you are” captures their haunting magic. Shepherd’s storytelling is electric, with relentless pacing that kept me glued, unable to think of anything else as suspense piled on suspense.

But after finishing, my excitement dimmed. Without spoilers, some characters’ decisions, especially family-related ones, felt hard to believe. I was all in for the magical map concept, but certain emotional choices didn’t land. If I can buy into a secret world concept, why did those personal motivations feel off? It’s a book that sticks with you, forcing you to ponder its choices long after. Despite this, the sheer creativity and thrilling plot make it unforgettable. It’s a love letter to maps and mysteries, even if the emotional aftertaste is bittersweet. For fans of imaginative, twisty stories, it’s a must-read adventure.

Sarah Penner’s The Lost Apothecary opens with an irresistible premise: women, secret poisons, and lives linked across two centuries. The atmospheric setting is strong, and the rules of the apothecary lands weight and intrigue to Nella’s morally grey craft. However, for all its promise, I struggled to connect deeply with the story. I’d picked up the book multiple times, failed to finish twice, and only persisted on my third attempt. While the plot suggests high stakes and emotional intensity, I found the execution uneven, with pacing and character depth sometimes sacrificed for the shifting timelines.

Nella stood out most, but her potential, like much in this novel, felt partially realized. Eliza, so compelling at her introduction, faded instead of growing. Caroline, meant to bridge past and present, felt underwritten, leaving her modern struggles strangely muted. There are moments of tension and revelation, but too many narrative threads left little room for these women to achieve the fullness they deserved. Overall, it’s atmospheric, unique, readable, but ultimately unsatisfying, not just with characters, but the wrap-up as well.

Mr. Lemoncello's All-Star Breakout Game, the fourth book in Chris Grabenstein’s Mr. Lemoncello's Library series, is a delightful blend of puzzles, friendship, and heartfelt moments that make it a standout read. As an adult reader, I found myself thoroughly engrossed in this book aimed at younger audiences, and it’s easy to see why it resonates with so many.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is its engaging puzzles. Though designed for kids, they are cleverly crafted and satisfying to solve, offering just the right balance of challenge and fun. These brainteasers add an interactive layer to the story, making it feel like you’re part of the adventure alongside the characters.

Grabenstein’s portrayal of pre-teen life is another highlight. He captures the essence of school dynamics—friendships, subtle bullying, and competitive spirit—with remarkable maturity and sensitivity. The friendships between Kyle Keeley, Sierra Russell, Akimi Hughes, Haley Dailey, Miguel Fernandez, and even Andrew Peckelman (despite initial rivalries) are heartwarming and authentic. The evolution of their relationships, particularly as they navigate team rivalries, showcases the power of empathy and collaboration.

The book also sheds light on Charles Chiltington, the resident bully, in a nuanced way. By exploring his motivations—driven by a demanding father who equates worth with winning—Grabenstein encourages readers to see beyond surface behaviors and understand the complexities of others’ actions. This adds a layer of depth that elevates the story beyond a simple adventure.

Kyle’s family stands out as a refreshing contrast to the high-stakes competition. Their emphasis on fun and letting kids be kids grounds the narrative in warmth and relatability, reminding readers that joy and connection matter more than victory.

Overall, Mr. Lemoncello's All-Star Breakout Game is a vibrant, puzzle-packed story that celebrates friendship, empathy, and the joy of being yourself. It’s a must-read for fans of the series and anyone who loves a good mix of brain teasers and heartfelt storytelling.

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.

One of the best books I’ve read. Ever!

Jo Nichols has taken a familiar setup (a tight-knit group of neighbors, a cozy coastal setting, and a sudden murder) and turned it into something truly special and unique. This isn’t just a quirky mystery; it’s heartfelt, emotionally rich, and beautifully layered.

From the very first chapter, I was hooked. I told myself I’d listen to just a little before getting back to work, but hours later, I was still going. Not once did I feel the urge to skip ahead or take a break. Every moment in this story had weight, charm, or purpose (sometimes all three).

The characters are messy, complicated, and real, and the way their lives intersected made my heart ache in the best possible way. There’s humor, grief, love, chaos, and, above all, a sense of found family that stayed with me long after I finished.

And can we talk about the narration? Megan Price absolutely nailed it. Her performance gave every character depth and personality, making the audiobook a completely immersive experience.

I still can’t believe this is Jo Nichols’ debut. The writing is sharp, tender, and confident. I didn’t want the story to end. I kept hoping for one more chapter, one more conversation, one more moment with these characters.

The ARC was an absolute gift. Thank you, NetGalley. I can’t wait for everyone to meet the residents of Marigold Cottages when this gem comes out in August.

Vicki Delaney always—always—ALWAYS manages to surprise and delight me! Gemma Doyle is, as ever, brilliant. In this installment, Jayne is looking forward to her upcoming wedding to Andy. The setting this time feels extra intimate — a close circle of wedding guests, all corralled together for Jayne’s birthday dinner in what should have been a picture-perfect week. And for Holmes aficionados, here’s an irresistible bit: Jayne’s birthday falls on January 6th, the very same day celebrated as Sherlock Holmes’s own birthday. It’s these sorts of playful details that make this series such a treat for mystery lovers.

But the evening takes a shocking turn when Gemma discovers a body. Even worse, Andy becomes the prime suspect—giving Gemma an urgent and deeply personal reason to investigate. Saving Jayne’s wedding might just depend on solving this murder in time.

The friendship between Jayne and Gemma is the soul of this book: those quiet, heartfelt moments had me misty-eyed. I adore Gemma, her sharp curiosity, her quick-thinking mind, and the way she channels Sherlock Holmes himself. Delany’s nod to Sherlock, especially with the birthday tie-in, is pure genius, making Gemma a sleuth Holmes fans will cherish. The pacing sings, and the cozy chaos is irresistible.

I had the privilege of reading an ARC, and I can confidently say this is one to add to your TBR right now. The Devil in the Details releases January 6, 2026—don’t forget to place a pre-order. It’s so worth it.

I picked up Secret Lives hoping for a cozy mystery with a strong, memorable lead, and Ethel Crestwater did not disappoint. She’s a 75-year-old retired FBI agent with no-nonsense attitude and a backbone of steel. From her razor-sharp comebacks to the way she wades through government secrets and suspicious boarders, Ethel is the life of every page. She never tries to soften herself for anyone, and that stubborn, dry wit totally won me over. The scenes with her are powered by this quirky, irresistible energy that made me wish I could pull up a seat in her living room.

But here’s the thing: while Ethel’s storyline is punchy and memorable, the actual mystery never quite pulled me in. The plot, full of political layers and Capitol Hill secrets, was interesting enough, but there was something hazy about the emotional punch. Maybe it was the pacing or the way things wrapped up, but I finished the book feeling content but not entirely eager for round two. Sometimes a story and a reader just don’t click, and that’s okay.

On the audiobook side, Patrick Lawlor’s narration is a total highlight. I honestly didn’t realize a man was voicing Ethel until after the fact. He slips into her no-nonsense tone and sly humor with complete ease. Lawlor gives Ethel the right blend of warmth and steel, adding another layer of enjoyment.

There are certain series that feel like coming home, and for me, the Bookstore Café Mystery series is exactly that. Reading them is like curling up with a warm blanket, a favorite drink, and good company. Chicken soup for a cozy mystery soul! In Death by Iced Coffee, Krissy laces up for a marathon and ends up with a body. The marathon setting added a fresh twist, with Krissy’s reluctant jog through Pine Hills’ sweaty streets painting her as the endearing everywoman we adore.

The mystery itself was a solid brew, twisty enough to keep me guessing. Johan’s involvement added stakes, pulling Krissy deeper into the sleuthing game for Rita’s sake. The pacing stumbled slightly during the marathon scenes (I wanted more murder, less sneakers!) but the cozy vibes and tight-knit community carried me through.

I listened to the audiobook, and a special cheer for Melissa Moran, the narrator! She truly brings Krissy’s world to life, slipping between tones and voices with a pro’s flair, making it obvious who’s talking without ever muddling the conversation. Best of all, she manages to keep Krissy’s adorable personality intact, capturing the signature blend of curiosity and charm that makes this series such a treat. It’s like she invites you right into Pine Hills for coffee and gossip.

Erickson’s knack for blending heart and humor with murder makes this series a go-to, and I’m already craving the next installment to see where Krissy and Paul’s slow-burn romance heads.

Let’s be real: this book and I had a rocky start. When I first started reading Finlay, the “how did my life get like this?” vibe felt more exhausting than endearing, and I almost quit. But on my second shot, this time via audiobook, Angela Dawe’s narration roped me in. She gives Finlay just the right dose of frantic charm, making the chaos feel fun instead of frustrating. Suddenly, every wild twist and near-miss felt like watching a sitcom – bingeable, improbably, and surprisingly addictive.

The plot? Total rollercoaster. Cosimano keeps you flipping between laughter and facepalms, with Finlay surfing through disaster after disaster on a wave of sheer luck. I started keeping mental tally on impossibly convenient escapes, then gave up, because that’s half the joke. It’s part mommy-drama, part caper, and Dawe nails the vibe, dialing up the madcap energy without ever losing the thread. Did I believe half of what happened? Not a chance. Was I entertained? Almost.

That cliffhanger ending? Annoying but effective. I’m equal parts frustrated by the “how is she not in jail?” energy and weirdly tempted to pick up the sequel, if only to see what mess Finlay blunders into next.

A different narrator brings fresh energy. Kirby Heyborne steps in with his own style, and while it’s distinct from past performances, it fits the bill for the zany, puzzle-filled world of Mr. Lemoncello. This installment introduces two fantastic new characters: Simon, with his exceptional ability to notice what others miss, making him the perfect candidate for solving wild puzzles; and Soraiya, a loyal friend and brilliant, logical partner. They fit seamlessly into Kyle Keeley’s world, even though Kyle, Akimi, and the usual gang only pop in briefly. The core values remain front and center: honesty, friendship, and integrity always take precedence over winning.

What sets this book apart from earlier entries is its emotional depth. Amid the wordplay and logic puzzles, there’s a raw moment when Simon learns the truth about his parents’ deaths. The contrast between his grandfather’s blame-filled version and Mr. Lemoncello’s heartfelt explanation is quietly powerful. Simon’s ability to absorb the truth without bitterness and see the bigger picture becomes a touching study in perspective and forgiveness.

Simon’s emotional maturity is remarkable for someone his age, accepting loss, understanding the truth, and refusing to place blame for an accident. This shift reflects how the series has evolved: from lighthearted, game-loving pre-teens to teens navigating complex, heartfelt themes.

The shift away from Kyle and Akimi feels bold, letting Simon and Soraiya carry the torch with values of integrity and friendship. This isn’t just a game anymore; it’s a story about growing up, and I’m here for it. A fresh twist on the Lemoncello universe, with new voices, new puzzles, and a deeper emotional core, makes The Titanium Ticket a worthy addition to the series.

If you think you know where this series is headed, think again. Accomplice to the Villain cranks things up several notches without missing a beat. The pacing is absolutely relentless, pulling you deeper into the chaos from the very first chapter. This book barely lets you breathe between plot twists, magical mishaps, and surprisingly emotional moments. I slipped into Accomplice to the Villain via audiobook, and holy smokes, Em Eldridge’s narration is a spellbinding treat! Her voice brings Evie’s sass and Trystan’s brooding charm to life, making every heart-racing moment pop.

Trystan and Evie’s chemistry crackles like a summer storm, their banter and tender glances (well, vocal glances) leaving me giddy. Their relationship evolves and develops in this book, from a slow burning fire to a full fledged raging inferno. But that’s not even the highlight here. What really blew me away was the way the story builds. The first two books laid the groundwork, but this one layers twist upon twist until you’re on the edge of your seat, every quirky side character, frog crown, and prophecy gone haywire build up to an ending that is, quite literally, killer. I was furiously flipping (well, listening) to chapters, gasping at the turns, and laughing out loud, all in one sitting.

That ending, though? It’s a dagger to the heart: shocking, raw, and so perfectly devastating I’m still reeling. No spoilers, but it’s the kind of closer that demands a group chat to process. Maehrer’s blend of humor, heart, and high-octane drama is pure gold, and Eldridge’s narration elevates it to obsession level. This is the series’ best yet, and I’m already counting days until book four. Add this to your TBR, you need this chaos in your life!

I am absolutely in love with the way Rosanne Limoncelli brought some of my favorite mystery writers to life—especially Dame Agatha Christie (gosh, I would die to meet her! Also, that's the only now that I can meet her). This one hits that catnip blend of historical homage and brisk whodunit, and it nails the assignment: the four queens feel distinct without lapsing into caricature, and their sleuthing styles complement Wyles’s cool, procedural precision. Agatha Christie’s sharp wit dances alongside Dorothy L. Sayers’ intellect, while Ngaio Marsh and Margery Allingham shine with their own flair. DCI Lilian Wyles, a real-life Scotland Yard trailblazer, steals scenes with her fierce brilliance, grounding the fiction in awe-inspiring history.

The setup is deliciously golden-age: country estate, morning-after murder, a suspect pool steeped in status and scandal—and the narrative balances clue-laying with character work so the reveals feel earned rather than engineered. The Heathcote family’s depth kept me glued, their dynamics weaving seamlessly into a plot that hums with World War II’s undercurrents, Hitler’s propaganda subtly twisting London’s “Barons” in ways that gave me chills. The way Limoncelli wove propaganda’s insidious reach into this cozy mystery? Absolute brilliance.

Elizabeth Knowelden’s narration is a triumph, each voice distinct and dripping with personality, elevating every twist. She gave each character the personality and presence they deserved, making the listening experience even more magical. I saw a Goodreads review mention that the story felt slow, but I couldn’t disagree more. For me, the pacing was perfect—steady, engaging, and richly layered from start to finish.

Cancer has always felt like a shadow in my life, something my loved ones have battled, and something I’ve witnessed from the edges. Picking up this book felt like stepping directly into that shadow. What Does it Feel Like is not an easy book to read, and I mean that in the best way possible. Written during her own battle with glioblastoma, it feels like Kinsella poured every ounce of her soul into Eve’s story. This novel is raw, heartbreaking, and intimate, even as she laces it with her trademark optimism and humor. She writes with such raw honesty that it doesn’t feel like fiction at all; instead, you’re sitting at her side, feeling each fear, each fragile hope, each shaky laugh. There’s no distance.

The novella is short, but every page reverberates with emotional weight. It feels to me like this is all Sophie could write on this topic without breaking down herself, like a carefully held breath she dared to share with us. I found myself unable to finish, not because it was lacking, but because it was too good. The writing was so vivid and personal that I felt like I was sitting in the room with her: when she cried, when she tried to reconcile with her diagnosis, and when she reached for humor in the darkest places so her readers wouldn’t have to feel the full weight of her pain.

The brevity, at just under 150 pages, feels deliberate—like Kinsella could only say so much before the weight of it broke her. Her humor is a lifeline, but you can sense the tears behind it, making every page feel like a gift and a wound. It’s not just a story; it’s a glimpse into her courage, and that intimacy overwhelmed me. I DNF’ed this book not because it wasn’t compelling, but because it was too compelling. The grief, the uncertainty, even the smallest details, felt so close to home that it became difficult to keep reading. For families touched by cancer, this book is an unflinching mirror to heartbreak and hope.

Chris Grabenstein’s Mr. Lemoncello’s Great Library Race continues to prove why this series is such a joyful read for both kids and adults. Narrated with energy and charm by Jesse Bernstein, this third installment not only entertains but also delivers some wonderfully thoughtful lessons along the way.

What stood out most to me in this book isn’t just the fun puzzles or rapid-fire challenges, but the way individuality and inclusivity shine. Each child brings their quirks to the table, and instead of being dismissed, those quirks are celebrated. Sierra, who often gets wonderfully “sidetracked” by reading, never faces judgment for her quieter participation. Instead, her passions are respected, a subtle but heartwarming message for young readers about making space for different strengths.

Pair this with Kyle’s personal growth, acknowledging mistakes, learning to prioritize teamwork, and you’ve got a book that’s as wholesome as it is entertaining. His growth underscores another strong theme in the book: the importance of teamwork, shared knowledge, and respecting each person’s unique strengths, skills that matter not just in games and races, but in life itself.

This installment also tackles an especially timely topic: fake news. The story cleverly shows that not everything found online is accurate, and it emphasizes the importance of research, fact-checking, and questioning sources before believing or spreading information. It’s an invaluable lesson, delivered in a way that feels natural and fun rather than preachy.

Overall, Mr. Lemoncello’s Great Library Race is both entertaining and meaningful. With its celebration of individuality, clever puzzles, and thoughtful themes, it’s a standout entry in an already fantastic series.

Featured in the "Debut Darlings" category for the Goodreads Summer Challenge, Maggie Su's Blob: A Love Story introduces a bold and creative concept that blends sci-fi and fantasy. As a debut novel, it showcases an ambitious vision, but I found the plot challenging to follow. The intricate narrative and the imaginative stretch required to dive into its fantastical world didn’t quite click for me, as someone less familiar with the sci-fi fantasy genre. Fans of complex, genre-driven stories may find this debut captivating, but it wasn’t my cup of tea. Perfect for avid sci-fi fantasy readers exploring new authors, but it may not suit everyone.

As I chose this as a part of challenge, and ended up not following the book because it wasn't my genre, I choose not to rate the book. It's neither the book's nor the author's writing that caused me to turn away from the book. The genre wasn't right for me. That's all, folks!

I went into this book expecting a clever, intricate puzzle-driven mystery, and at first, it delivered on that front. The opening hooked me with its promise of riddles, codes, and intellectual twists. But as the story progressed, it started shifting directions—first into spirituality, then the supernatural, then a dive into quantum physics—and by the time I reached the end, I felt more confused than intrigued.

The pacing was uneven, and somewhere around the midpoint, I found myself speed reading, just trying to keep up with the increasingly tangled narrative. Despite that, I still felt bored and disconnected from both the story and its characters. The abrupt ending only added to my sense of dissatisfaction.

This is a book that tries to do many things—mystery, science, spirituality, metaphysics—but in my experience, it ended up doing none of them particularly well. I can see how it might appeal to readers who enjoy layered, genre-blending narratives, but it definitely wasn’t for me.

I rarely DNF audiobooks, but unfortunately this one was a struggle for me and I stopped at about 20%.

The audiobook is narrated by the author, and while I admire the effort, I found the narration difficult to get through. The delivery was nasal and monotone, which made it more grating than calming. I typically listen to audiobooks before bed because they help me unwind, but this one had the opposite effect—I even tried it during the day, and still found it hard to enjoy. A professional narrator might have made a real difference here.

As for the story, it didn’t manage to grab my attention either. Charlotte is meant to be a lifelong detective figure, but beyond being observant, she lacked the intuition and spark I expect in a detective-style character. The pacing felt slow, and I struggled to connect with either the plot or the characters.

I also felt the LGBTQ+ representation came across as forced rather than organically woven into the narrative. Representation works best when it flows naturally, and here it felt more like an add-on than an integral part of the story.

Overall, I couldn’t push past the 20% mark. While this book may work better for other listeners—especially those who are already fans of the author’s style—it wasn’t for me.

I started this one a little skeptical—after all, the Goodreads chatter had some readers absolutely roasting it. But to my surprise, I found myself still turning the pages at 2 a.m., utterly hooked, hunched over the pages, half horrified and half gleeful at just how spectacularly messy this family drama gets. There’s a wicked kind of satisfaction in watching a group of people who totally deserve each other fall apart piece by piece (or in this case, body by body). The cover’s chilling rhyme “On the first day of Christmas, my in-laws gave to me, a body in the snow and a motive or three” sets the tone for a wickedly funny, murderous ride. Bache’s humor transforms 12 grim murders into something bizarrely cozy, like laughing through a horror movie. The dysfunctional extended family is a chaotic masterpiece, their venom making every demise a twisted thrill.

At the heart of the mayhem sits Olivia, Miles, Martha, and Callum—a family unit I rooted for from the very first chapter. They’re flawed, quirky, and not above eye-rolling at one another, but their devotion absolutely shines through. You’ll root for them as they navigate a holiday gone homicidally wrong. I was obsessed with guessing the killer, my theories bouncing all over the place, but I did not see that ending coming! The murderer’s reveal is a jaw-dropping masterstroke, blindsiding me in the best way.

What really makes this book sing, though, is Natasha Bache’s narrative style. She manages to take the most dysfunctional family dynamics and weave them with perfectly timed humor. Yes, the story is jet-black dark (we’re talking 12 murders!), but it somehow feels cozy because her wit drops in exactly when it’s needed. Mark October 9, 2025, for a Christmas thriller that’s equal parts hilarious and shocking—add it to your TBR!