The One Before The One by Emma Cooper | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The One Before The One by Emma Cooper
Genre(s): Romance, Mystery
Release Date: January 31st, 2025
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 322
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Sweet 🌶️ 

In this emotionally charged novel, Liv grapples with the disappearance of her fiancé, Kit. In her grief, she forms a deep bond with Kit’s brother, James, and their shared sorrow eventually blossoms into genuine love. However, on the day of her wedding to James, Liv discovers a strange gift. This discovery transports her back seven years, to the week before Kit’s disappearance, allowing her to relive their final days together.

I absolutely loved this book. The author skillfully navigates between different perspectives and timelines, creating a masterfully crafted story. From the very beginning, the book captures the raw pain of loss and the haunting void left behind. Liv’s journey is an emotional exploration of grief, the struggle to move forward, and the importance of seeking help when needed. As the narrative unfolds, readers will encounter unexpected surprises as the truth is gradually revealed.

This novel is perfect for readers looking for a heart-wrenching story that delves deep into the human experience of love and loss.

Head Cases by John McMahon | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press| Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Head Cases by John McMahon (PAR Unit #1)
Genre(s):
Release Date: January 28th, 2025
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press| Minotaur Books
Pages: 352
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice:No Spice 🚫

Head Cases” is an intense psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. FBI Agent Gardner Camden has a brilliant mind and a unique skill set; he's incredibly good at making connections and seeing patterns in complex criminal cases. However, when Gardner is called to the scene of a crime, he realizes he has made a significant mistake. Caught in a game of cat and mouse, Gardner must think fast to uncover the identity of a copycat vigilante who threatens to expose the FBIs secrets. 

The plot was masterfully woven by author, John McMahon. It must have been an enormous undertaking to write a plot as complex as this one. The investigation is filled with well-connected clues and discoveries, each one building on the last to push the story forward. I also enjoyed the character development and learning more about each agent as their stories progressed.

If The Ring Fits by Camilla Isley | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

If The Ring Fits by Camilla Isley (Funny Feelings, Book #2)
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: January 25th, 2025
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 354
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

I loved going on this delicious journey with Rowena Taylor as she navigates a journey of self discovery and finding love. Rowena’s life is quickly turned upside down when her boyfriend breaks up with her, she’s fired from her job and finds out she’s pregnant. She meets Adrian West and finds herself seriously considering a fake marriage proposal to secure some stability for herself and her unborn baby. Very quickly Rowena starts to fall for Adrian. Could this fake marriage actually be something real?

The story is far fetched but I actually loved that about it. It’s not everyday that we meet a sexy, rich financial banker that proposes marriage within the first twenty minutes of meeting. Rowena find herself in a tough situation and had to overcome the negative voices in her head. I was rooting for her when she started to find herself passion for her work again and not compromising herself to fit the mold of a working woman with a child. Adrian was supportive along the way, albeit not so great with the communication. He also grew along the way, realizing that he really could have it all if he learned to let love in. This was such an endearing story and I highly recommend it.

When I Disappear by Amanda McKinney | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

When I Disappear by Amanda McKinney
Genre(s): Thriller
Release Date: January 24th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 311
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Sylvia Cohen’s mother was murdered twenty years ago, and the man convicted has just been released from prison. The story is told from multiple perspectives including Marjorie Stone, her daughter, Sylvia, and Rhett Cohen, the man accused and convicted of Marjorie’s murder. 

Twenty years after her mother’s murder, Sylvia receives a series of letters, veiled threats telling her that she’s not safe. The timely appearance of the letters lead to the release of Rhett Cohen. The unlikely duo pair together attempting to finally uncover the truth behind Marjorie’s murder. It is a tumultuous emotional affair with lots of interesting twists.

The Family Lies by Angela Henry | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Family Lies by Angela Henry
Genre(s): Thriller
Release Date: January 22nd, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 317
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Medium 🌶️🌶️  (one scene)

Sabrina Adam's life has been built on a web of lies. Her dishonesty lands her a job at the library, but when the truth comes out, she gets fired. Enter Theo Dorsey, a millionaire heir to the Dorsey snacks fortune. He offers Sabrina a chance to redeem herself by moving into his home to restore his late mother's forgotten library filled with valuable books.

Sabrina jumps at the opportunity and finds herself in Theo’s mansion. There, she encounters the stern housekeeper, Mrs. Manning, who imposes strict rules. Undeterred, Sabrina remains focused on her job until inexplicable events start to unfold, leaving her questioning her own sanity.

One night, Sabrina witnesses Theo with a mysterious woman, who vanishes and is later found dead. As Sabrina delves deeper, she discovers links to another woman's death near the mansion. Determined to uncover the truth, Sabrina races against time to solve the mysteries and avoid becoming the next victim.

This psychological thriller masterfully explores themes of hidden family secrets, deceptions, and the descent into madness. Each character harbours their own agenda and will go to any lengths to protect their secrets. The story is packed with twists and turns that will leave you in awe. It’s a gripping read, perfect for those who enjoy being kept on the edge of their seat, and you will be genuinely shocked by the ending.

She Doesn’t Have a Clue by Jenny Elder Moke | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

She Doesn’t Have a Clue by Jenny Elder Moke
Genre(s): Mystery, Romance
Release Date: January 21st, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Pages: 336
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

Initially, I struggled to get into the novel due to the extensive plot development in the beginning. Kate’s observation skills and habit of eavesdropping on conversations added depth to her character but also slowed the pace a bit. However, the concept of a mystery writer solving real-life crimes in her daily routine fascinated me. As the story progressed, the narrative picked up momentum and became incredibly engaging, especially as we delved deeper into the chaos.

The novel captivates readers with a story of aristocracy, mystery, and murder. Kate receives an invitation to her ex-boyfriend Spencer's wedding at an island estate, belonging to his fiancée Kennedy's family. Upon arrival, Kate discovers she’s sharing a room with Jake Hawkins, a man from her past who once rejected her romantic advances.

Kennedy, poised to inherit a vast fortune, is blindsided during the wedding reception when her aunt reveals that the money will be donated instead. The narrative spirals into a whirlwind of emotions, chaos, and accusations. Kate is left reeling when she is named a suspect in an attempted murder eerily similar to the plots of her own novels. Why was Kate really invited to the wedding? Could someone be framing her? 

Teaming up, Kate and Jake try to uncover the truth and unravel everyone's motives. During the investigation, Kate channels Loretta, the confident detective and protagonist from her books. This unique perspective drives the plot and adds an engaging layer as Kate solves the mystery and discovers newfound confidence to pursue the life—and the man—she truly desired.

How Do I Tell You? by Nicola May | Review

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

How Do I Tell You? by Nicola May
Genre(s): Fiction
Release Date: January 20th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 305
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Medium 🌶️🌶️

This book is messy but I’m kind of here for it. The main character, Victoria, can’t seem to get herself straight. She’s trying to figure out what she wants for her life, career and in love, but she keeps sabotaging herself with every move she makes. 

On a night out she makes a rash decision that changes everything. Forced to deal with the consequences, she finally begins to reassess who she really wants to be. The author, Nikola May, explores sensitive topics thoughtfully as the main character Victoria pushes through adversity to take ownership of her life and find her happiness.

Take Me To The Valley by Kaci Rose | Review

 

Take Me To The Valley by Kaci Rose 

(Mountain Men of Whiskey River #8)
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: January 11th, 2025
Publisher: Independent
Pages: 274
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️

“Take Me To the Valley,” introduces us to Calista Stapleton, a dedicated nurse who finds herself moving back to her hometown. Prompted by her four brothers, who are preoccupied with managing the family’s beloved whiskey distillery, Calista returns to help her aging parents. As she drives back into town, she encounters Evan, her younger brother’s best friend. No longer teenagers, Calista’s feels a rush of new feelings as she notices how well Evan fills out his police uniform.

Shortly after settling in, tragedy strikes as Evan sustains an injury while on duty. Being a nurse, Calista is quickly volunteered by her brother to take on the role of Evan's caretaker. She nurses him through his recovery, and the shared hours foster an undeniable closeness. With each passing day and every moment spent together, Evan and Calista are forced to confront the growing emotions simmering between them.

I enjoyed the story but I felt that more time was needed to develop a deeper connection between Calista and Evan. They had a whirlwind two-week romance and their relationship progressed too quickly. The love story would have felt more believable by adding more 

detail and additional scenes to build the tension and allow their bond to grow more naturally.

Thank you to BookSprout and Kaci Rose for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Saving Noah 
 ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

January’s Bad Boy: Shane  
⭐⭐ Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

Best Mistake Ever by Christy McKellen | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Best Mistake Ever by Christy McKellen
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: January 16th, 2025
Publisher: Boldwood Books
Pages: 232
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Sweet 🌶️ 

The story revolves around a woman named Bea who finds herself caught up in a messy situationship that she just doesn’t know how to fix. The story starts with Bea’s twin sister Dee, who embellished her resume to get a dream job working for a famous rock star at his new hotel. 

Dee is just a hot mess. She has a hard time keeping it together and is about to get fired. When she gets injured and can’t work she asks her identical twin help her keep her job by pretending to be her. It was only going to be for one weekend to keep one event going smooth. Bea will do anything for her sister and and does her best to make a good impression on her grumpy boss, Jonah. What Bea doesn’t expect is that she begins to see her grouchy boss, Jonah, as not so grumpy after all. Bea and Jonah start to fall for one another. Bea needs to tell him the truth. 

This was a quick easy read about the journey of self discovery and reminding yourself that everyone deserves good things and to fight for what you want. I enjoyed the tension between the main characters Bea and Jonah as Bea struggled with the shame she felt about telling Jonah her true identity but also just wanting to forget everything and just make out. The author adds so much detail that it really made the scenes come to life l and I could visualize them in my head. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and plan to read more of this author’s work!

The Perfect Plan by Caitlin Weaver | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Perfect Plan by Caitlin Weaver

Genre(s): Fiction
Release Date: January 15th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 352
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Medium 🌶️🌶️ (one scene)

Fabiola loves being a mom. She has three children, and loves giving them all of her attention and feels anxious that they are growing up and might not need her anymore. 

With an innovative husband who is trying to get his start-up company and her own career is taking off. At Fabiola’s wedding, she introduced Peter, her old friend and childhood crush, to her best friend, Liz. Peter and Liz fell in love, got married and seemed to have everything. Everything, but children. As Liz’s best friend, Fabiola impulsively agrees to be a surrogate for her friends. Their arrangement takes a disastrous turn as Fabiola and Peter’s connection grows. Fabiola’s reckless actions reveal a pattern of impulsive, thoughtless behavior. Now, Fabiola must navigate the tangled mess she created and seek a way to make amends. 

I enjoyed the book, but my opinion of the main character Fabiola changed drastically. Initially, I respected her as a smart and loyal person, and I loved the women’s friendship portrayed at the beginning. However, it all turned out to be fake! Fabiola's actions became increasingly annoying and childish. Her messiness ruined everything, and she showed no consideration for other people's feelings. She definitely didn't deserve her friends. Instead of handling her situation maturely, she acted like a teenager, which was really off-putting. The author, Caitlin Weaver, did a great job creating her characters, but Fabiola’s transformation was a major disappointment.

Cross My Heart by Megan Collins | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

Cross My Heart by Megan Collins
Genre(s): Thriller, Mystery
Release Date: January 14th, 2024
Publisher: Atria Books
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Mild 🌶️ 

The story is narrated from the perspective of Rosie, who seems infatuated with the idea of love and has a hard time letting go. How far is Rosie really willing to go for love? 

This was such a great book. I was hooked right from the beginning and did not want to put it down. Using email exchanges to share dialogue between some of the characters brought fresh approach to the thriller novels I’ve read recently and it made me feel like I was reading the inner thoughts of my unhinged best friend.

The Lost House by Melissa Larsen | Review

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Lost House by Melissa Larsen
Genre(s): Thriller
Release Date: January 14th, 2025
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Pages: 352
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Mild 🌶️ 

The Lost House is a gripping psychological thriller that kept me hooked from the very first page. The author, Melissa Larsen, has written a story with intriguing characters using the Icelandic setting to enhance the sense of mystery. Agnes Glin's journey is both haunting and exciting as she uncovers family secrets and faces the truth about her grandfather, accused in an unsolved case involving the murder of his wife and child. The suspense is intense! Just when you think you know what's going on, Larsen throws in a surprise twist.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for this advanced reader copy. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could! I really enjoyed the novel and would highly recommend it to readers who are looking for an edge-of-your seat thriller.

The Innocent Wife by Sally Royer-Derr | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Innocent Wife by Sally Royer-Derr
Genre(s): Thriller
Release Date: January 13th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 279
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Trigger Warnings

Trigger Warning - Grooming, SA 

I enjoyed this twisty thriller by Sally Royer-Derr but it did make me feel icky in parts.

Natalie is recently divorced, and just moved with her young daughter into a home close to the school she just transferred to work at. On her first day, she is introduced to another teacher, Lucas Hanson. Natalie already knows Lucas but he doesn’t seem to recognize her. She remembers how he groomed and took advantage of her when she was just a teenager. 

Olivia is Lucas’ young wife. They got married and moved towns as soon as Olivia turned eighteen. Over the past six years, Olivia has been catering to Lucas’ demands and high expectations but she’s tired of all that now. She wants to start making her own choices, but Lucas won’t let her…

Natalie’s daughter Emma tells her mom about the man watching her from across the street. Unexpected gifts are showing up at Natalie’s doorstep and she’s getting ominous texts. Who is the man watching her house? Has Lucas figured out who she is?

The narrative is told from Natalie and Olivia’s perspectives as they navigate their friendship, and work through their trauma. I stayed up until 2am to finish this in one reading. I won’t give the ending away but I had some theories and although I was wrong, I was excited to know I was thinking along the right path.

 

The Midnight Hour by Kate Hewitt | Review

 

The Midnight Hour by Kate Hewitt
Genre(s): Science Fiction
Release Date: January 10th, 2025
Publisher:
Pages: 320
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Major cities across the world have been bombed. Humankind is on the brink of complete extinction. Those who are alive are just trying to survive. The story revolves around a Canadian family who are forced to leave the safety of their Northern Ontario Cottage when they are ambushed and attacked by a group of survivalists. Forced to endure physical and mental obstacles tolls in the aftermath, the family fights to stay together and survive no matter at what cost. 

As a Canadian, the concept of mass destruction, and fighting to surviving against all odds is a terrifying thought. In this narrative of heartbreak and despair, The author paints a story of resilience and the importance of family. I enjoyed the descriptive imagery being the story to life, even though the concept of this being a reality is difficult to imagine.

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Final Truth by Morag Pringle | Review

Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Final Truth by Morag Pringle (Rachel McKenzie Series, Book #3)
Genre(s): Mystery
Release Date: January 8th, 2025
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 343
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: No Spice 🚫

Rachel McKenzie is a lawyer and wanna-be police officer. She finds herself caught up in her own ideas and theories, investigating leads much to the chagrin of the local police department. When an up and coming journalist goes missing, Rachel remembers their last conversation when he told her that he might be in danger. When a man is found dead in suspicious circumstances, Rachel thinks there is a connection to the journalist’s disappearance. Rachel seems to rub everyone the wrong way as she rifles through old documents and starts asking questions. 

Overall, the book was enjoyable but not exciting. It was a cozy mystery type read.

The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Viking Juvenile for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard
Genre(s): Young Adult
Release Date: January 7th, 2025
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers/Viking Juvenile
Pages: 192
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

This was a really well crafted Young Adult novel that tackles some really sensitive and tough topics. The author describes the challenges of being a teenager along with some with pretty tough issues: sex, drugs, violence, and tragic death. She touches on the subjects without too much graphic detail. 

The main character Colton is struggling with the tragic death of a girl that he loves. Julia died in a tragic car accident. Colton is struggling with grieving because nobody knows about his relationship with Julia. She is privileged and lives in a wealthy neighbourhood. Plus, she also has a boyfriend. After her death, Julia’s brother uncovers their secret and gives Julia’s diary to Colton. The diary is full of her inner thoughts, in the form of letters written to Colton. Colton struggles with his grief and moving on. Maybe, the letters can bring him some peace. 

I highly recommend this book. Check the triggers and see if it’s a good fit for you.

The Lodge by Kayla Olson | Review

 Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion and review.  

The Lodge by Kayla Olson
Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: January 7th, 2025
Publisher: Atria Books
Pages: 352
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: Hot 🔥🔥🔥

Alix Morgan just got her dream job as the ghostwriter of a memoir by Sebastian Green, a former member of the boy band True North. While there, she begins Tyler, a ski instructor. As Alix and Tyler fall in love on the slopes, Alix uncovers the secret about the band.

This is a cozy love story that addresses some pretty deep topics. The story explores the theme of this density; taking control over who we once were and who we really want to be by facing our biggest fears. It is also a story about giving grace to people and not judging a person because you don’t know what they are really going through. I empathized with the characters and the turmoil they were experiencing. At times, the story got a little heavy but it made the sweet, lovely moments seem more genuine.

All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall | Review

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me the chance to read this ARC novel in exchange for my honest opinion.

All the Water in the World by Eiren Caffall

Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopia
Release Date: January 7th, 2025
Publisher: St. Martin’s Press
Pages: 304
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Spice: No Spice 🚫

This story is a futuristic thriller during times of tragedy and upheaval. As the ultimate storm ravaged through cities and caused destruction and chaos around the world. Norah “Nonie” and her family faced uncertainty and death-defying situations while trying to survive this new water-logged world. The story was very hard to follow and understand in the first few chapters as we are introduced to the storms and given some background information.

 

It is a long book and really took until Chapter 25 (out of 80) to get some clarity about the connections to the main character and people from the past that kept being mentioned. I really started to enjoy the book once they left their initial shelter and set off on their journey to find a new place to stay safe. The story wrapped up nicely. The novel was just too long in my opinion.

My Mother-In-Law Must Die by Spencer Guerrero | Review

My Mother-In-Law Must Die by Spencer Guerrero
Genre(s): Psychological Thriller
Release Date: January 6th, 2025
Publisher: Independent
Pages: 245
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 
Spice: No Spice 🚫

The thriller is about a couple named Callum Crowley and his wife Raven. The story is told from Raven’s perspective. Raven loves her husband but he seems to have two sides to his personality; “Mr. Charisma and Mr. Temper.” After Callum gets into a fight with his boss, the family moves in with his mother. Callum’s a great guy, until he’s not, but his mother is a whole other story. Callum’s mother, Mercedes wants him to marry someone else it seems she will do anything to destroy Raven’s family from the inside out. Mercedes is rich, narcissistic, and will do anything to get her way, but will she kill for it? 

I really enjoyed this thriller. It left me guessing by right up until the end! The storyline was thick with intertwined perspectives and twists. I felt a feeling of doom through most of the novel and empathized with Raven as she struggled to stay sane, protect her daughter and uncover the truth. The ending was really heavy and fast paced but very fitting. This is definitely a must read and I can’t wait to read his other novels.

Thank you to the author Spencer Guerrero for the chance to read this ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Saving Noah by Kaci Rose | Review

Saving Noah by Kaci Rose (Oakside Military Heroes #1)

Genre(s): Romance
Release Date: June 17th, 2021
Publisher: Independent
Pages: 244
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: Steamy 🌶️🌶️ 

Reader’s can’t help but fall in love with Noah and Lexi in this heartwarming story. Noah is a marine on deployment with his Unit Commander, Johnny. Along with others in their unit, they become seriously wounded while on deployment and are flown to a military hospital for specialized care. Johnny’s family flies out to be at his bedside to support his recovery. When Noah’s family isn’t able to come visit, Johnny’s sister Lexi steps in to be his support person. Their relationship quickly strengthens as Lexi stays by Noah’s side helping him fight through his life-altering injuries.

The story packs a punch as it explores the complexity of military life, including the dangers of deployment and the loss of loved ones. The author touches upon the depth of the trauma experienced by soldiers and highlights the importance of a support system to help navigate the uncertain future. 

Despite the heavy topics, the novel is a short, easy read with a few spicy scenes to deepen the intimacy and progress the love story. I really enjoyed the story and I look forward to reading the other books in this series.

Check out these reviews for Kaci Rose books:

Take Me To The Valley 
⭐⭐⭐  Steamy 🌶️🌶️

January’s Bad Boy: Shane

⭐⭐  Steamy 🌶️🌶️