Blagica Jankuloska

What did I just finish?!

Look, I have read a massive number of books in my lifetime, but this is the book that finally taught me what a true, masterclass slow-burn thriller actually looks like. I'll admit, for the first 52%, I was actively panicking in my friend’s Discord DMs like: "What am I reading? What is the actual point? Please tell me it gets better."

But my god, the second half was an absolute slam dunk.

Every single thing I guessed was wrong, and I loved every second of being played. While the mystery is fantastic, it actually takes a backseat to the characters and their relationships, which is exactly why the story feels so incredibly compelling and real. It’s a deeply insightful dissection of marriage and human connection—specifically what it means to truly know someone, how easily secrets accumulate, and how trauma quietly shapes the way we bond.

I loved how beautifully layered both Gretchen and Frankie were. Neither is perfect, and the story intentionally forces us to confront their flaws through their alternating POVs. Watching them come to terms with the cracks in their lives and their own deficiencies was easily one of the most fascinating elements. The internal struggles and rich introspection really highlight just how character-driven this novel is.

Mixed media in a book is always an automatic win for me, so I was obsessed with the police interviews woven throughout. Trying to piece the puzzle together alongside the investigation kept me completely hooked. Honestly? It is not easy to trick me, but these twists absolutely got me.

The settings added another brilliant layer. Moving between the polished, high-society chaos of New York City and the grueling intensity of Mount Kilimanjaro created such a stark contrast, making the stakes feel massive. Plus, I loved reading the acknowledgements and discovering that Kimberly McCreight isn’t just an incredible author—she’s also a mountain climber! Knowing that real-life experience was behind those Kilimanjaro chapters made the entire climb feel a thousand times more immersive.

Overall, this is a smart, emotionally driven thriller that builds its tension quietly but effectively, backed by truly stunning character work. If you love thrillers that feel grounded, human, and deeply focused on the psychology of its players, you need this on your radar. Huge thanks to the author for showing me how a slow-burn should actually work in a genre that isn’t romance. My TBR is about to get a lot bigger!

Such a Win

Trigger Warning: This book deals with themes of emotional abuse.

I hopped onto Libby yesterday looking for an easy, breezy read for a reading sprint and picked up Part of Your World by Abby Jimenez. (According to the app, I’ve actually read it before, but I have absolutely no memory of it!) It turned out to be beyond cute, and I definitely want to continue the series just to see if we get to stay in this charming town with its fantastic cast of supporting characters. I was so excited to dive in, and it did not disappoint—I found myself laughing out loud.

The main characters, Alexis and Daniel, had massive chemistry. Whoever said otherwise clearly doesn’t know what chemistry looks like! I appreciated that Abby didn't feel the need to write every single sex scene in explicit detail, while still giving us a few. It was also incredibly endearing how hard Daniel fell for Alexis. Call it puppy love if you want, but some guys just fall head over heels, and that’s it. That feels very true to a small-town dynamic—when a local guy falls, he falls hard because he isn't in a massive city where options are everywhere.

On the other hand, Alexis is a successful doctor who has just escaped a long-term emotionally abusive relationship with her ex, Neil. This dynamic was the one thing that bothered me at times. Throughout the book, Alexis constantly talks about how "mean" Neil was, comparing him to Daniel. As someone with personal experience surviving emotional abuse growing up, and later surviving a relationship that was both mentally and physically abusive, I found the execution a bit frustrating. The book paints Neil as this ultimate, cartoonish villain, yet if he was truly that level of evil, it wouldn't have been worth the hassle—I would have just left him the house and walked away. Plus, despite being talked about constantly, Neil only actually interacts with Alexis about three times.

That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have already recommended it to friends! I can't wait to see what comes next, and I will definitely be reading more from Abby Jimenez!

Why Did You Guys Rate This So High? I Need Answers.

This book gets three stars strictly because it was a milestone: my first classic, and my first official buddy read with Tess! It definitely taught me that I'll need a reading partner by my side for future classics. To all my Goodreads friends who gave this a glowing review—please comment below, because Tess and I need you to explain what we missed!

Here is why this famous tale fell flat for me:

The Dialogue & Narration: The prose was incredibly rigid. The unnamed protagonist is already a completely bland character, and the audiobook narrator did absolutely nothing to help my cause. For the first two-thirds of the book, the communication between her and Maxim was painfully unnatural. Instead of a normal, full-sentence response, she relies on single-syllable "yes" or "no" answers until I wanted to kick her backside.

The "Romance": There is a total lack of genuine connection. Tess and I both noted that while we weren't expecting steam, Maxim clearly married this girl to be a psychological security blanket, not a romantic partner.

The Vague Plot: While Chapters 12–16 were entertaining and the pace quickens at the end, the core conflict is far too ambiguous. (Spoiler alert for a 1938 novel!) The strict morals of the era mean the exact reasons for Maxim's intense hatred of Rebecca are left to guesswork. If Rebecca was genuinely that malicious, it makes no sense that only her husband noticed her true nature. Someone else in her circle would have picked up on it!

Final Verdict: Even the iconic Mrs. Danvers just came across as an angry, one-note character who needed a personality. Aside from a few gripping chapters, it mostly left me thinking, what did I just read? It’s heavily overrated, but sharing the experience with Tess was easily the best part.

No Roses for This Thriller: Great Vibe, Flat Execution

My heart is broken because I wanted so much from this book. It honestly had the makings of a five-star read, but I ultimately left feeling like it was just okay. I had much higher hopes for this one. A wellness retreat, shady guests, and a spooky location—it had all the components of a phenomenal thriller, but it just fell flat.

The story took a while to get off the ground while establishing Isobel’s backstory, but the pace picked up once she arrived at the Himlafall Clinic, deep in the Swedish woods. Everything and everyone had a creepy vibe, which I thoroughly enjoyed. At one point or another, I was side-eyeing every single character. For anyone who loves The Bachelor, the dynamic between the guests honestly felt like a chaotic aftershow featuring everyone who wasn't chosen.

Then, Isobel started making such reckless decisions. At one point, I actually wrote in my notes: "She is not good at this undercover journalism thing and needs to pick a different dream." Her choices drove me nuts, and the frustration really set in. Both her character and the plot felt all over the place, and by the end, I was just ready for it to be over.

Was I surprised by the twist? Sure, I guess. But I can’t say the ending was satisfying. We were given so many unnecessary details about certain characters that the conclusion felt less like a clever twist and more like something that didn't make sense. That said, I have another book by this author on my shelf and am willing to give them another shot.

Stories Within Stories

Given the title Beach Thriller by Jamie Day, this couldn’t have been a more fitting summer read. It follows Holly Sinclair, a published author who loses her NYC apartment after her publisher rejects her latest manuscript. Short on cash, she retreats to her small, gossip-fueled hometown of Beauport, Massachusetts, moving into the house she inherited from her mother.

This felt like two books in one, brilliantly shifting between Holly, Jade, a mysterious figure called "The Watcher," and chapters from a manuscript Holly wrote twenty years ago. If my review feels a bit vague, that is entirely by design—this is absolutely one of those twisty thrillers you need to go into completely blind to get the full experience.

I am so glad I stayed the course with this one. The pacing kicks into overdrive at the 70% mark, turns spectacular by 90%, and delivers a stellar ending. Over half the characters are wearing masks, constantly flipping my expectations of who was good or bad. Literally every single guess I made was completely wrong!

As a bonus, the behind-the-scenes look at the chaotic reality of the publishing industry added a fantastic extra layer. I give this a solid 4 stars—and honestly, if I were an actual writer and my publisher rejected my work, I’d probably write a twisty psychological thriller about everyone in my hometown, too.

Messy Pasts & Brilliant Character Growth

I was in the middle of a slow-burn read this weekend and desperately needed a palate cleanser, so I decided to take a chance on this title. Wow, am I glad I did! The fact that I started this yesterday and flew through it by tonight speaks volumes about how gripping and fast-paced the writing is.

The real heart of this book is its fantastic cast of female leads. S. Freeman Martin isn’t afraid to give Sally and her team deeply flawed, traumatic pasts that make them question every future decision. Watching these ex-cons navigate real-life struggles and fight to turn their lives around for the better was incredibly rewarding. You can’t help but feel a massive sense of pride for them as they grow. Storyline-wise, this one serves up major psychological thriller vibes. It’s packed with classic "good guys vs. bad guys" dynamics, high-stakes moments of anxiety, tense angst, and some truly devastating revelations. It’s an emotional roller coaster from start to finish.

While I loved the ride, there were two small speed bumps that kept it from being a full five stars for me. First, the climax and wrap-up felt a tad rushed compared to the steady build-up of the rest of the book. Second, the plot gets heavily bogged down in complex coding, financial tracking, and audit-based jargon. If you aren't super familiar with tech or finance, some of these sections might feel a bit thick to wade through and can slow down the momentum.

If this is S. Freeman Martin’s debut novel, I am seriously impressed and can’t wait to see what he writes next—especially if we get to check back in with Sally and the rest of the "Three Little Birds" crew. If you are a KU subscriber looking for an easy, breezy, yet tense mystery binge to devour over a single weekend, definitely add this one to your shelf.

The Ultimate Lifetime Movie in Book Form

Book slump broken, most of may I spent giving 3 stars to many reads. This is such a thrilling gem and I didn’t see any of it coming. This one was such an entertaining thriller. I was constantly trying to figure out what the heck was actually going on and every time I thought I had it figured out, something else would happen that made me question it again.

The whole idea of a romance author basically meeting the real life version of her fictional man was already interesting, but then adding the stalker storyline and all the secrets on top of it made it so much messier in the best way.

I did figure out a couple of the twists before they happened, but there were still enough surprises throughout that I stayed hooked the whole time. The story definitely leans more over-the-top and dramatic at times, but that just made it more fun to read for me.

Overall, definitely a fun, fast paced, twisty thriller, especially if you like messy relationships, unreliable characters, and constantly second guessing yourself. I will happily pick up anything by this author moving forward I love books that keep my brain working and guessing. Wondering if I want to go try the back list of this author. 4 stars easy.

Norm Billings Met His Match

If I were a billionaire, I’d buy a copy of Marion for every single horror fan on earth—and then dare the non-thriller readers to try it.

What an absolute ride! From page one, Leah Rowan hooks you with multiple moving parts that keep the adrenaline pumping and the action propelling forward.

The story follows Marion, a mild-mannered ad agency employee tasked with depositing a massive cash payment for her boss. But she can’t focus—she’s consumed with anxiety over her sister, whose husband is notoriously violent. When her sister stops answering the phone, Marion makes a split-second decision to head to Saratoga Springs to save her. But fate intervenes: her bus breaks down, leaving her stranded at the Billings Motel—the only place in town with a vacancy. Enter the proprietor, Norm Billings. He’s young, handsome, charming, and the sole caregiver to his cancer-ridden mother. He also happens to have a dangerous fixation on pretty blondes.

If this sounds familiar, it’s because the novel is a brilliant, subversive twist on Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. But in this version, the script is flipped. We get a fierce, resilient woman fighting like hell to survive, refusing to be taken down in a shower by a madman.

Leah Rowan’s reimagining of this classic is something to cheer about. Her female characters are unapologetically fierce. As Marion calculates how to right the wrongs and protect her sister, you can't help but rally behind her. I wanted her to win so badly, and I wanted the men who exploit women to get exactly what they deserve. But in true thriller fashion, nothing goes completely to plan—especially when a pesky private investigator looking to make a name for herself gets thrown into the mix. Hannah, the investigator, is such a uniquely captivating character; I would absolutely love to see an entire spin-off series dedicated to her and her cases!

To top it all off, the epilogue is so beautifully written—it truly feels like the perfect bow on a gift.

This book is so good. I dual-wielded the digital copy and the audiobook, and it is officially on my permanent spooky-season re-read list. Leah Rowan, you have a certified super-fan in me. Thank you for giving us such a creepy, fiercely feminist masterpiece!

Zero Cell Service, Zero Common Sense

Another book I finished in one sitting and yet another book that I cannot give more than 3 stars. Go me, right? No, I need a five-star read in June please. This is a book that you cannot take too seriously. When I started it, I had a good feeling that it was going to be a solid thriller. Unfortunately, it didn’t stay that way.

If this book were a horror film, the audience would be screaming at the screen within the first twenty minutes. We follow three childhood best friends—now fully grown adults in their mid-20s and early 30s—as they head out for a hiking trip along Washington State’s ominous Bone Hollow Trail. The red flags start flying almost immediately. Not only are they trekking through wilderness miles away from civilization with zero cell service, but they are also casually listening to a true-crime podcast about a local serial killer who targeted women in that exact forest. Naturally, one of them gets injured. Naturally, they stumble upon an isolated cabin. And naturally, there is a strange man inside offering "help."

This is where the story morphs into a masterclass in terrible decision-making. Despite openly admitting that this stranger gives them the creeps, these women decide the best course of action is to walk right into his cabin and start drinking with him.

The sheer lack of survival instincts was maddening, but the group dynamic made it even harder to root for them. Two of these friends are textbook "mean girls" whose toxic behavior makes you wonder why they are even traveling together in the first place. You'll spend half the book practically begging them to just turn around and run.

While the characters' monumentally ridiculous choices kept this from being a top-tier thriller for me, Eliza Jabore definitely has promise. As a debut, Backstabbers has incredible pacing and a ton of potential. I'll absolutely be keeping an eye out for her future work—especially if she brings back those atmospheric, true-crime podcast elements.

A Portrait of Potential Left Behind

If you know me, you know I’m super picky when it comes to classics. I’ve only got one or two under my belt, with The Picture of Dorian Gray being my absolute favorite.

Because of that love, I wanted great from Every Exquisite Thing by Laura Steven, but I only got good. There is a biting irony to a Dorian Gray retelling that lacks substance—it is beautiful on the surface, packed with gorgeous prose and stunning quotes, but entirely hollow underneath. (A quick heads-up: it does come with triggers, so please look into those and protect your peace before reading). While the themes are deep and heavy, the actual plot felt incredibly sluggish. It genuinely saddens me that a concept with this much potential dragged so much; trimming about 50–75 pages would have done wonders for the pacing. As it stands, I'll likely forget both the plot and the characters in a few weeks.

The biggest letdown was Penny. Instead of letting the reader experience her character, the narrative continuously told us who she was, followed by a level of over-explaining that felt like hand-holding. That lack of trust in the audience completely severed my connection to her. The romance was equally flat, lacking any real spark. In fact, I spent the entire story aggressively shipping Penny with a different character just to inject some much-needed chemistry into the narrative.

Surprisingly, the bonus chapter hints at a sequel. I am actually intrigued enough to check it out, if only to see if these characters finally get the development they were denied here.

Ultimately, it’s a fine YA novel that handles philosophical reflection well, but falls short of its own ambition. I'd recommend it to older teens, though I do worry a bit about how its message might warp their perspective on beauty. A thoughtful, but flawed, 3 stars. I would honestly love nothing more than to give this author a higher rating, so I definitely plan to keep trying her work!

Bonds, Bowties, and Absolute Brilliance

Dear book gods thank you for putting all my ducks in a row and letting me work from home so I can read this book. What a gem of a find. This would not be my cup of tea normally and I am so glad that I did not judge a book by it’s blurb. My god this was such a gem that I want to put it in the hands of everyone who is looking for a good laugh.

What makes this spoof work so brilliantly is Paul Rudnick’s chaotic, maximalist comedic style. As a wickedly sharp gay humorist, he packs every single page with a breathless barrage of pop-culture roasts, rapid-fire one-liners, and delightfully unhinged metaphors. The prose itself mirrors the high-stakes energy of a spy caper, utilizing sprawling, joke-dense paragraphs where the gags come so fast and furious you can barely catch your breath.

At the heart of this wild ride is a beautiful piece of representation: an entire, fabulously outfitted team of LGBTQ+ secret agents. Think globe-trotting James Bonds in spiffy tuxes, backed by a gadget master supplying the boys (and some brilliant sapphic girls) with loony, lethal weapons straight out of a campy 1960s knock-off film. The plot quickly escalates from a classic spy parody into a full-blown Indiana Jones adventure, sending the team on a high-stakes race against international oligarchs and homegrown fanatics to secure three supernatural, long-lost gems. It is equal parts loving homage and hilarious satire.

I did some research and this author is from NJ and this makes it such a cool little read. I will read any book with the boys and bowties that comes my way and recommend it to anyone looking for a laugh. Now I just want to rewatch Kingsmen and keep smiling.

Officially on Romance Probation

I finished this yesterday and sat with it until this evening. To be honest, if I pick up another bad romance this year, I am divorcing the genre. The entire time I listened to this on Libby, I had major deja vu. When I pinpoint what book it's mimicking, I’ll be back to update you.

The premise centers on two rival writers competing to tell the story of Margaret Ives, a vanished Hollywood heiress finally ready to talk. But the execution completely lost me. You cannot write a contemporary romance where the main goal is the connection between the leads, yet spend half the page count on a third character's life story. It splits the focus, leaving neither thread with enough depth.

Worse, about a quarter of the book was dedicated entirely to sexual tension—thinking about it, talking about it, and getting this close to doing it, only to stop. That’s great for readers who crave that slow burn, but all I was thinking was, Can we wrap this up? Let's get back to Margaret's story. It’s just not my thing.

When a book treats every element—from the romance to the leads' heavy personal baggage—as vital, nothing feels truly developed. I kept asking myself: What am I supposed to care about most? For me, the answer was easily Margaret's backstory. That was the part I loved the most, but it was cut short to make room for a total insta-love romance where the guy is professing his love by week two.

I liked the concept, and the library listen was enjoyable enough, but the book tried to do too much. I am incredibly glad I borrowed this instead of buying it, because it would have been an immediate unhaul. I’ll try the next book-themed romance in the future—but strictly in a "borrow, don't own" capacity.

A Fascinating Premise with Mixed Emotional Payoff

I love spending my weekends writing reviews for library books that make me reflect on my own life, so I was thrilled when my workplace book club selected The Measure—a title that has been high on my list for a few months. I finished it a few hours ago and needed some time to let it process because it leaves you with so much to unpack.

The premise is brilliant: every adult over 22 receives an indestructible wooden box containing a string that measures the exact span of their life. Naturally, chaos ensues. Some people panic, some carry on as normal, and others choose to never open their box at all. Soon, politicians and the media begin dividing society into "short-stringers" and "long-stringers." Amidst the division, however, others find ways to grow closer. But the ultimate question remains: can anyone actually alter their fate?

Was this book emotional and thought-provoking? Absolutely. Yet, for some reason, I didn't forge the deep emotional connection with the characters that I had hoped for. I liked most of them well enough (except Anthony, the politician, of course!). In fact, the storyline featuring two pen pals completely stole my heart—definitely keep the tissues handy for that one. Still, outside of their arc, I found myself searching for a bit more depth.

Ultimately, I highly recommend The Measure. It forces you to look inward and evaluate how you are spending your days, and what legacy you will leave behind. I'm eager to discuss it with my book club—hearing their perspectives might just change how I feel—and I can't wait to see what we pick next month!

The Perfect Paranormal Palette Cleanser

So I read this on a whim because one of my consumers in my book club at work suggested I give it a shot. Kindle Unlimited came through because I found it and it was cute in a pallete cleanser of a book kind of way. Thank you Valarie for your awesome suggestion. The writing is so fluid it made me feel like a pro surfer riding a wave. It was so easy to read that I flew through this book in no time. Apart from one character, (who you're not supposed to like) I liked everyone in this story. There was enough humour without it being a farce; enough tension to carry the plot and a bit of angst thrown in.

After witnessing a robbery of at bank located I side a grocery store, Shelby is grazed in the head with a bullet. After the pain begins to dissipate, she realizes that she now has the ability to hear people's thoughts. After meeting Kate, the gorgeous new lawyer at her husband's law firm, she realizes that this huzzy wants her man. Shelby inadvertently tells Kate she knows of her relationship with Uncle Joey not realizing that he is The mob boss, Joey the knife Manetto.

Now not only is the bank robber out to get her but Uncle Joey is hot on her tail as well.

Shelby is bound to receive the end of a knife or bullet until she reveals her new ability to Uncle Joey. Now, he plans to use her in his scheme to ferret out the links in his operation. What we have her is a wonderfully written who dunnit' with a paranormal twist and loads of comedic moments. If I can't have a hairy werewolf or a sexy vampire give me a crime busting novel any day of the week. Then, add a paranormal twist, I am sooooo in my element.

I will confess I was not expecting to enjoy this book so much; but I am so glad I did. And since this series has been out for awhile, I will have several good reads to keep me busy for a time. If you are like me and enjoy a little humor, crime solving and paranormal edge in your reads, I would highly recommend that you pick up "Carrots." I think I will slowly continue this series when I need a pause from my growing TBR pile. 3.5 stars.

A Stellar 4-Star Debut

The best remedy for a sick day is curling up in bed with a Kindle and a great story. After reading a rom-com yesterday where the main character drove me nuts, Play It By Heart by Flick O’Mara was the perfect, refreshing antidote. This is a strong debut and a really enjoyable friends-to-lovers romance.

The story follows Ollie (a musician), Kennedy (his business partner and fellow vocalist), and Becca (a photographer) as they run a wedding business together, which serves as a fun, lively backdrop for the plot. The characters are incredibly likeable, and their witty banter makes the friendships feel completely organic. The transition from platonic to romantic is handled beautifully, making the emotional development feel entirely believable and satisfying.

For readers still easing into the romance genre, the spice is on the milder side—making it a fantastic entry point that maintains plenty of tension and chemistry without being overwhelming. Alongside the romance, resurfacing family drama and unresolved history between Ollie, his ex, and Becca add great depth and entertainment to the narrative. My only minor gripe is that I occasionally found it a bit jarring when Ollie was referred to as "Ol" instead of his full name.

Overall, this is a highly promising start to what looks to be a great series. I already need Kennedy to find her person next (and he absolutely requires some ink!). I will definitely be reading more from Flick O'Mara. Solid 4 stars.

Shipwrecked by the Heroine, Saved by the Cast

I had to sit with this one for a few days because, honestly, it made me a little sad. I wanted so badly to love it, but it didn't quite hit the high marks of The Rom-Commers or The Love Haters, both of which I absolutely devoured. That being said, it was still a fun, easy-breezy companion that kept me company and helped me breeze through my week.

Recently, the best-friends-to-lovers trope has really grown on me. There is something about it that tugs at the heartstrings differently, and I definitely felt that connection here. The story follows JoJo and Cooper, childhood best friends who haven’t spoken in years. After Cooper RSVPs "no" to her wedding, he suddenly shows up out of the blue to convince her not to walk down the aisle. When the wedding gets called off, JoJo embarks on a quest to win over her childhood crush during her sister's upcoming wedding festivities—and she solicits Cooper's help to do it.

The banter between them is excellent, and there are plenty of moments that will make you laugh out loud. I also absolutely loved the supporting cast; they brought so much life and warmth to the story. As always, Katherine Center excels at creating unique plot lines, and the final "twist" leaves you feeling happier than expected.

However, the main downfall for me was JoJo’s maturity level. She is hands-down the most frustrating fictional character I have met in a while, which ultimately took a major toll on my final rating. Because she was so exasperating, I really would have loved some chapters from Cooper’s perspective to balance things out. I also needed that ultimate happy moment to come much quicker, rather than waiting until the 86% mark to finally get there.

Yet, despite those grievances, the story had a strong grip on me—I absolutely needed to know what happened and couldn't bring myself to put it down. I’ve even been wondering if the audiobook version handles the perspective or the delivery better, and I might just have to buy it to find out.

While this one lands at a solid three stars for me, I will still eagerly await the next release from Ms. Center. She loves to write about love, and when I want a romance, I need it to be an effortless, joyful escape. She usually delivers that in droves, and I will always be here for it!

Banter That Feels Like a Taylor Swift Love Song

Am I the only one who had Taylor Swift’s Celebrity on loop as the backdrop for this cute read? I found myself making that reference because you can truly feel the love throughout that album, just like you can feel the incredible chemistry between these leads. From the very first page, First and Forever was impossible to put down. If you’ve read Lynn Painter before, you know she is the queen of dialogue, but the banter in this book was everything. Connor and Duffy’s back-and-forth had me laughing nonstop, kicking my feet, and completely addicted. Duffy truly never lets up, and Connor handles every bit of her chaos with a grace that is honestly swoon-worthy. Their chemistry was off the charts; it wasn't just tension for the sake of the plot—it felt like a genuine, electric connection that made every interaction so entertaining to read.

The absolute highlight for me was when they actually sang "Exile" by Taylor Swift during one of their fake dates. It was such a great, standout moment that captured their dynamic perfectly. Duffy was such a fantastic character because her love for sports, especially the Coyotes, felt so authentic. She’s fierce, hilarious, stubborn, and completely unapologetic about who she is. It’s so refreshing to read a heroine who doesn't dim her light to fit in. And then there’s Connor. Watching his character arc was one of the best parts of the journey. He starts off participating in a viral PR stunt, but watching him slowly realize he’s genuinely falling for Duffy was so sweet and satisfying. He isn't just a love interest; he’s a perfect foil to Duffy’s high energy.

The fake dating mixed with viral public attention was the perfect engine for this story, creating a pressure cooker of tension, humor, and heart. Lynn Painter nailed the balance here; one minute I was laughing out loud at their public antics, and the next, I was caught off guard by their emotional vulnerability. The story explores that "celebrity" theme well—the difference between what the world sees on social media and the quiet, real moments shared when the cameras are off. Every chapter left me smiling and wanting more. While I did find myself wishing for just a bit more depth in certain secondary plot points toward the end, it didn't take away from the overall joy of the experience. This book felt like fireworks from beginning to end. It’s cozy, it’s chaotic, and it’s deeply romantic. If you love witty, fast-paced banter, fake dating with high stakes, and characters that completely steal your heart, this needs to be at the top of your TBR.

Double the Formats, Double the Chills

You know you’ve found a winner when you’re dual-wielding formats: Kindle in one hand and the audiobook playing in your ears. This "immersion mode" was exactly what I needed to shake off a long week and a lackluster weekend. It’s becoming a core truth for me that Alex Finlay simply cannot write a bad thriller; this was the perfect world to get lost in.

The story centers on Quinn and Jules, who strike up an unlikely bond during study hall. She’s the quintessential popular girl, and he’s decidedly not. Despite their social gap, they find common ground in a shared obsession with an upcoming concert on May 1st. Jules is secretly hoping Quinn shows up, and he’s feeling the same, even though she’s already "taken." But the night of the concert goes off the rails, triggering a decade-long ripple effect. For the next ten years, we catch up with them only on May 1st. The catch? A serial killer has claimed that date as their own, striking every year with a precision that has left the police completely baffled.

The "one day a year" snapshot approach is a brilliant mechanical choice. It keeps the narrative lean and prevents the plot from getting bogged down in mundane details. Instead, you get these high-impact glimpses into how their paths consistently—and sometimes tragically—zigzag back together. Admittedly, the trade-off for this relentless forward motion is a slight loss in character depth. Because we only see them once a year, they function primarily through the lens of their role in the mystery rather than as fully fleshed-out people. However, in a fast-paced thriller like this, that’s a sacrifice that works; they serve their purpose perfectly within the puzzle Finlay has constructed.

The finale was easily my favorite segment. As a seasoned reader of the genre, I’ve developed a bit of a "sixth sense" for twists, and while I predicted some of the beats, the rest caught me completely off guard. A special shout-out to the dual narration on the audiobook—the performances are stunning and add an extra layer of tension that really elevates the experience. I believe there’s only one book left in Finlay’s backlist that I haven't tackled yet, and I’m looking forward to diving into that while I wait for whatever twisted story he comes up with next.

Forgive Me, Father, for I Have Read

have a new book bestie this year who lives for spice and smut, and she has made it her mission to curate a must-read list for me. I am officially here for it. Priest by Sierra Simone was her first recommendation, and it was the perfect re-entry point. It has been since college since I’ve picked up anything this heavy on the steam, and wow—what an introduction back.

First off, can we talk about the marketing? The gorgeous, minimalist floral covers are a stroke of genius. They are discreet enough that you could almost get away with reading this at your desk if you’re feeling brave, though once you get past the first few chapters, you’ll realize the cover is the only "tame" thing about this book!

Don’t get me wrong: the spice is on another level. It is unapologetic, intense, and masterfully written. However, what caught me off guard was the emotional weight. This isn't just a spicy read; it’s a thoughtful exploration of guilt, religion, and self-worth. Tyler and Poppy’s story is as gut-wrenching as it is provocative. Simone weaves themes of loss, healing, and faith in ways that left me ruminating long after the final page. Her prose is lush and evocative, perfectly balancing those moments of high passion with quiet, reflective scenes that delve into the characters' internal struggles.

The tension in this book is built on the ultimate "forbidden" foundation. If you are deeply religious, the content might feel blasphemous (Tyler is a man of the cloth, after all) but if you’re open to the narrative, there is so much to unpack regarding how we define "sin" versus "love."

Priest is an unforgettable read that challenges expectations. It delivers the smut, but it brings the heart and the heartache along with it. My friend mentioned that while the series continues, the story for this specific couple doesn't just end here, which is interesting enough that I’ve already added book two to my list. I’ll just be reading the sequel at home, not at work. I don't think my poker face is that good.

Espionage and Elementary School

If you’re looking for a thriller that balances high-stakes action with the relatable chaos of school pick-up lines, I, Spy is a must-read. L.M. Kemp’s debut is a fast-paced, addictive ride that proves motherhood might be the ultimate undercover assignment.

I was immediately pulled into the life of Kendall, a former spy who has spent the last four years in hiding to protect her daughter. When she’s pulled back into the field, she has to navigate a convoluted mystery involving a tech firm—all while using her role as a "school mom" as the ultimate disguise. Watching Kendall maneuver through suburban cliques while simultaneously dismantling a conspiracy was incredibly entertaining.

I honestly didn't expect to have this much fun with this novel. It’s packed with action and clever plot twists, but it also has a lot of heart. I found myself deeply invested in Kendall’s journey as she craves a sense of normalcy for her daughter, who provides one of the best lines in the book with her adorable advice to always “trust her insects.”

This is a solid 3.5 stars and the perfect palate cleanser for anyone needing a break from heavy horror or high-spice novels. It was such an easy book to spend two days with, and I’m already hoping it lands on BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Download) soon. I really want to recommend this to the consumers I work with, as this story is right up their alley and I want to ensure it's fully accessible for them. To the author: Can we please make this a series? I am not ready to say goodbye to this cast of characters just yet!

The "Full Flavor" Review

I am a foodie in every sense of the word—I feel food just as much as I eat it. I have such respect for chefs, that lovely, foul-mouthed group of people who not only make food taste good but look incredible. Since I definitely eat with my eyes first, I quite literally "ate this book up" (pun fully intended!).

This was unlike any book I’ve had the pleasure of reading. It was so full of life and culture, providing an astounding look into the world of a culinary student. It hit close to home, too; one of my favorite people spends all day cooking and dreams of owning a food truck, and this gave me a new perspective on the grit behind that passion.

I loved seeing the author find love, but I absolutely hated Leo. His privilege was so frustrating, and I couldn't stand the way he used her throughout the story. On the flip side, the food descriptions were top-tier. The way those scrambled eggs were described—so light and fluffy—actually made me want to try them, and I don’t even like eggs that much!

I now have a greater appreciation for how you can experience a whole culture through one plate of food when you slow down to appreciate every ingredient. Food is a way to cleanse the soul and provides a chance to truly connect with yourself and others. I loved learning about the author's culture and will definitely be re-reading this one!

When the Bet Leads to the Heart

⚠️ CONTENT NOTE: This story navigates heavy and realistic themes, including depression, anxiety, and drug overdose. If these topics are difficult for you, please prioritize your well-being while reading.

Brittainy C. Cherry has a way of shattering your heart just to weld it back together. After six books, I can safely say this story (along with Eleanor & Grey) takes the cake by a long shot. It’s the kind of read that makes you believe there truly is someone for everyone, even when the world feels exceptionally dark. I smiled, I cried, and I went on the absolute best of emotional roller coasters.

This isn't just a "second chance" romance; it’s a masterclass in mental health representation. Following Landon and Shay from their high school "bet"—which feels like a beautiful, nostalgic nod to A Walk to Remember—to their emotional reunion a decade later was a treat. Seeing a male lead like Landon navigate deep-seated emotions and mental health struggles without the usual "stoic" mask was incredibly refreshing.

Shay’s journey is equally compelling. Her hesitation toward love—rooted in the trauma of witnessing her father’s failures—is handled with such validity. Watching her overcome those hurdles by seeing the happiness of her mother and friends later in the story was a breath of fresh air.

While Eleanor & Grey still holds a tiny piece of my soul that keeps this at a 4.5-star rating, Landon and Shay’s "beautifully broken" journey is an absolute must-read for fans of contemporary romance that isn't necessarily "dark," but goes incredibly deep.

Finding Connection and Community

This year, I’ve shifted my focus away from fiction to prioritize real human stories. My goal is to learn something meaningful and, more importantly, to deepen my understanding of the differently-abled community. This book proved to be the perfect companion for that journey—it is a story that reaches out, teaches, and stays with you.

What makes this memoir so approachable is its structure; each chapter stands alone as its own narrative, written with a heartfelt and uplifting tone that kept me thinking (and laughing) long after I finished. The author captures the "HUGE joy" of loving someone with Down syndrome by being remarkably transparent about both the triumphs and the shortcomings. That raw honesty makes the joy feel authentic and earned, and it resonates far beyond a single diagnosis. It speaks to the profound, shared experience of the broader disability community—reminding us that while our specific paths may differ, the depth of love and the importance of advocacy remain universal.

By the end of the book, I felt so much genuine affection for the star of the story, Chris (also known as Buddy or Professor Higgins). He is truly the heart of every page.

While this is a sweet and inspiring read for anyone, it is especially vital for those with loved ones with developmental disabilities or anyone looking to lead with more empathy toward the Down syndrome community. I should note, however, that this isn't a "how-to" manual. Every individual is unique, and one person’s story cannot represent an entire community. Instead, read this for the connection it offers: it is a beautiful reminder that you are not alone, and you are seen.

What’s Your favorite Scary Movie?

I read a massive number of thrillers—unlike most readers, I’m perfectly happy staying immersed in this genre all month long. I’ve been known to curate TBR lists that journey from "dark" to "darkest," and this latest read certainly earned its spot. It is an incredibly interesting concept and a fast-paced journey; I finished it in two days, and it likely would have been one if work hadn't gotten in the way.

The story follows Hazel, who returns to her small hometown in the midst of a divorce to house-sit for her parents and reconnect with her sister, Cathy. When Hazel goes missing just days after her arrival, Cathy teams up with an old friend, Suzie. Their search eventually leads them into a dense forest rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of past murders.

While this is often categorized as horror, the thriller elements truly stole the show for me. Daisy Pearce excels at building tension through close calls and mounting suspicion. A unique aspect of the narrative is that we learn the identity of the antagonist early on, but his motivations are revealed through a slow, satisfying burn. In the meantime, Hazel’s fight for survival kept me on the edge of my seat.

One of the best signs of an engaging thriller is when I find myself wanting to yell at the characters to avoid a certain path or take a specific action. I was reacting to this book just like I do with scary movies, shouting, "Don't do that!!!!!!!!" in my head. The suspense was handled beautifully, even leading me to suspect several secondary characters along the way.

As for the horror elements, they provided a creepy atmosphere and some necessary context, though I personally wouldn't have minded if that aspect was dialed up even further. However, because it blurs the lines between genres, I think it will appeal to a wide variety of readers. This was a fantastic introduction to Daisy Pearce’s work, and I’m definitely curious to see what she has written previously.