#BookReview All the Missing Girls by Megan Miranda

All the Missing Girls
by Megan Miranda

Genre: Thriller, Crime, Mystery, Adult
Publication: 28 Jun 2016 by Simon & Schuster
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley, Simon & Schuster
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Instagram

It’s been ten years since Nicolette Farrell left her rural hometown after her best friend, Corinne, disappeared from Cooley Ridge without a trace. Back again to tie up loose ends and care for her ailing father, Nic is soon plunged into a shocking drama that reawakens Corinne’s case and breaks open old wounds long since stitched.

The decade-old investigation focused on Nic, her brother Daniel, boyfriend Tyler, and Corinne’s boyfriend Jackson. Since then, only Nic has left Cooley Ridge. Daniel and his wife, Laura, are expecting a baby; Jackson works at the town bar; and Tyler is dating Annaleise Carter, Nic’s younger neighbor and the group’s alibi the night Corinne disappeared. Then, within days of Nic’s return, Annaleise goes missing.

Told backwards—Day 15 to Day 1—from the time Annaleise goes missing, Nic works to unravel the truth about her younger neighbor’s disappearance, revealing shocking truths about her friends, her family, and what really happened to Corinne that night ten years ago.

I was intrigued after reading the description. It was interesting to see how the story was going to be told backward, from the time Nicolette (Nic) Farrell returned home. All the Missing Girls tells the story of the disappearance of two missing girls, Corinne, Nic's best friend who disappeared years ago, and Annaleise, who went missing shortly after Nic's return to Cooley Ridge.

Cooley Ridge holds a few secrets with Corinne disappeared. When Annaleise too, went missing, shocking truths about Nic's family and friends resurfaced.

I was a bit worried about the story at first with how the story was told. I was afraid that it wouldn't make sense, but surprisingly, the story worked better with how it was told. I admit that the story was a bit confusing at the beginning. But after reading the book, I think the author did a great job with the storytelling. It was clever to write the story backward with each secret unraveled slowly as the story goes. In the end, I feel like I wanted to reread the story again - from the way it was written and from the correct chronology.

All the Missing Girls is definitely a great crime thriller read. The writing was brilliant. There's a lot of twists that I didn't see or expect. I just didn't know who to trust in the book. It was shocking to find out the truth about the missing girls. I will definitely look forward to the author's other books.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Simon & Schuster in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Fixin' To Die by Tonya Kappes

Fixin' To Die
(A Kenni Lowry Mystery)
by Tonya Kappes

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Chick Lit, Crime, Mystery
Publication: June 14th, 2016 by Henery Press
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley, Henery Press
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Kenni Lowry likes to think the zero crime rate in Cottonwood, Kentucky is due to her being sheriff, but she quickly discovers the ghost of her grandfather, the town’s previous sheriff, has been scaring off any would-be criminals since she was elected. When the town’s most beloved doctor is found murdered on the very same day as a jewelry store robbery, and a mysterious symbol ties the crime scenes together, Kenni must satisfy her hankerin’ for justice by nabbing the culprits.

With the help of her Poppa, a lone deputy, and an annoyingly cute, too-big-for-his-britches State Reserve officer, Kenni must solve both cases and prove to the whole town, and herself, that she’s worth her salt before time runs out.

Fixin' To Die by Tonya Kappes is definitely a good, cozy mystery  read around. It was fascinating to see a bit of mystery and supernatural combined in a book. Kenni Lowry, a sheriff, faced a murder case and a jewelry store robbery on the same day.  And somehow, a mystery symbol ties the two case together. It was up to Kenni to solve the mystery.

I love Kenni as the main character. It was exciting to know that she's a sheriff. This is the first murder case she had as a sheriff and Kenni must solve the two cases with the help of her Poppa's ghost (my favorite character in the book) and the State Reserve officer, Finn.

This is definitely a cozy mystery read that I really enjoyed. The plot was nice, fun, exciting and believable. There are a little bit of twist here and there keeps me guessing until the end. I enjoy the bits of romance between Kenni and the Finn. Oh well. It wasn't really a romance. But, Kenni does have a crush on Finn. I'm excited to see them again in the next book.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Henery Press in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas

Throne of Glass 
(Throne of Glass #1)
by Sarah J. Maas

Genre: Fantasy, Magic, Mystery, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: August 2nd, 2012 by Bloomsbury
Format: ebooks
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Meet Celaena Sardothien.
Beautiful. Deadly. Destined for greatness.

In the dark, filthy salt mines of Endovier, an eighteen-year-old girl is serving a life sentence. She is a trained assassin, the best of her kind, but she made a fatal mistake: she got caught.

Young Captain Westfall offers her a deal: her freedom in return for one huge sacrifice. Celaena must represent the prince in a to-the-death tournament—fighting the most gifted thieves and assassins in the land. Live or die, Celaena will be free. Win or lose, she is about to discover her true destiny. But will her assassin’s heart be melted?

I decided to start the Throne of Glass series after Sarah J. Maas won in Goodreads Choice Award last year. Frankly, I don't think I'm the only one who think that Throne of Glass is somewhat similar to Maria V. Snyder's Poison Study. The beginning of Throne of Glass reminded me of Snyder's book. But that doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy this book. I did. So much that I purchased the second book right after I finished this.

The author did a really great job creating wonderful characters in Throne of Glass. Calaena had a strong personality. She's a trained assassin. She's smart. I loved her right from the beginning. She's clever, a survivor and she loves books! She may be a badass, but she got her sensitive side too. There are times when I thought that she was a bit childish. I liked the friendship between Calaena and Princess Nehemia and the chemistry between Calaena and the two other characters, Chaol, and Prince Dorian. And those two men are definitely swoon-worthy. 

I really enjoyed the book. The characters development was great. The plot was amazing. It was packed with action. I enjoyed reading the tournament part and I absolutely love the bit of mystery surrounding the castle. There are bits of romance building in the story. A possible love triangle. But I was quite disappointed with how the possible romance died before it even started.

Overall, Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas is a wonderful read. I thoroughly enjoy this one and am looking forward to reading the next book! If you're a fan of fantasy with a kick-ass heroine, you should definitely read this book.

#BookReview The Semester of Our Discontent by Cynthia Kuhn

The Semester of Our Discontent (Lila Maclean Mystery #1)
by Cynthia Kuhn

Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publication: April 5th, 2016
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley/Henery Press
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

English professor Lila Maclean is thrilled about her new job at prestigious Stonedale University, until she finds one of her colleagues dead. She soon learns that everyone, from the chancellor to the detective working the case, believes Lila—or someone she is protecting—may be responsible for the horrific event, so she assigns herself the task of identifying the killer.

More attacks on professors follow, the only connection a curious symbol at each of the crime scenes. Putting her scholarly skills to the test, Lila gathers evidence, but her search is complicated by an unexpected nemesis, a suspicious investigator, and an ominous secret society. Rather than earning an “A” for effort, she receives a threat featuring the mysterious emblem and must act quickly to avoid failing her assignment…and becoming the next victim.

When I read the description from the book, I know I wanted to read this. It was the first time I read a mystery book surrounding an English professor in a university and I was intrigued!

The Semester of Our Discontent by Cynthia Kuhn is undoubtedly a good cozy mystery book. I love the premises and the mystery.  I like Lila's approach in her investigation. Her curiosity to find out the real culprit and the strange emblem, and the determination to free her and her cousin as the suspect were great. Although, somehow, she was always the person who would accidentally be at the crime scene. I like how the characters would have a conversation about authors, but sadly, I have never heard of most of the authors mentioned.

I thought the author did a good job with the plot and mystery. But I was a bit disappointed with how the culprit was revealed, especially since there was no hint that pointed Lila suspecting the culprit, even just a little bit until the end. I know that sometimes people would commit a crime with motives that I couldn't comprehend, but I have to say that the motive to attempt another murder towards the end of the book was a bit crazy. Overall, I thought that The Semester of Our Discontent was a good read. I did enjoy the book, but I wish the revealing of the whodunit could be better. 

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Henery Press in exchange for my review.

Review: Terminal by Kathy Reichs & Brendan Reichs

Terminal (Virals #5)
by Kathy Reichs & Brendan Reichs

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Suspense, Young Adult
Publication: Published March 26th, 2015 by Arrow (Young)
Format: Paperback, 400 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

The Virals are back—but they’re not the only pack in town anymore. Terminal finds Tory Brennan—grandniece of the famous forensic anthropologist (star of the hit show Bones)—and the rest of the Morris Island gang tracking a pack of rogue Virals who call themselves the Trinity. The new pack was infected by a strain of supervirus created by Tory’s nemesis and sometimes-crush, Chance Clayborne, who accidentally infected himself, too.

These red-eyed Virals have openly challenged Tory’s pack for domination of Charleston, bringing on the attention of a shadowy government organization intent on learning the secret to their powers. Surviving it all is going to test the limits of the gang’s abilities.

Terminal is amazing! I can't say how much I love the Virals. At the end of the previous book, the Virals learned that Chance Claybourne was infected with the virus and there was a new pack in town. A pack called Trinity. Tory and the gang, along with Chance Claybourne have to find out about the new pack before they attract the attention of a government organization who were after their power.

Like every other Virals book, Terminal was packed with action and suspense. The Virals have to deal with the new pack and the secret organization. I am amazed with the friendship between the Virals and absolutely in love with the bits of romance between Tory/Ben/Chance. But, of course, Tory's choice was obvious from the beginning. 

Kathy Reichs & Brendan Reichs were very good authors. The storyline was amazing. The characters were great. I love how Tory and the Virals investigate things, with their curious nature. I just can't stop reading once I have this book in my hand. I wanted to know what will happen to the Virals and how will they escape from each danger they faced. I was heartbroken with the story towards the end, but, the authors got me excited again with the ending. Thankfully, there's a novella after this book. Hopefully, the writers will explain to us what happened to Tory and the Virals. I just need the novella in my hand, then, I can relax. Hopefully.

Virals will always be one of my favorite series of all time. It was sad to know that this is the final book for the Virals series, especially with how the story ends. I'm definitely going to miss the pack so much. 

If you haven't read the book and the series, I recommend that you will start now. It was amazing. If you like a kick-ass heroine who faced a lot of dangerous situations because of her curiosity nature, you will definitely enjoy this book.

Review: Murder on a Silver Platter by Shawn Reilly Simmons

Murder on a Silver Platter
by Shawn Reilly Simmons

Genre: Crime, Cozy Mystery, Romance
Publication: February 23rd, 2016 by Henery Press
Format: Kindle Edition, 276 pages
Source: Netgalley, ARC
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Penelope Sutherland and her Red Carpet Catering company just got their big break as the on-set caterer for an upcoming blockbuster. But when she discovers a dead body outside her house, Penelope finds herself in hot water. Things start to boil over when serious accidents threaten the lives of the cast and crew. And when the film’s star, who happens to be Penelope’s best friend, is poisoned, the entire production is nearly shut down.

Threats and accusations send Penelope out of the frying pan and into the fire as she struggles to keep her company afloat. Before Penelope can dish up dessert, she must find the killer or she’ll be the one served up on a silver platter.

I love books with a hint of mystery and food. Naturally, I have to read 'Murder on a Silver Platter' by Shawn Reilly Simmons. And I am very glad that I picked up this book. 

Murder on a Silver Platter starts immediately when Penelope and her friend, Arlena found a dead body outside her house while searching for their dog, Zazoo. Penelope is a very likeable character. She's smart, independent and loyal. She was always looking after Arlena, which was how she got into investigating a murder and accidents that happened around Arlena. The supporting characters made the story much more lively and interesting. I enjoyed getting to know them all, especially Arlena's father, Randall.

The author's writing style was easy to get into. I can't put down the book. Shawn Reilly Simmons writes a really good mystery with good characters and twists that you wouldn't see it coming. I know I didn't. I was hooked to read until the end to find out who did what and why. There was a hint of romance between Penelope and a cop, who was also her childhood friend. I would definitely recommend 'Murder on a Silver Platter' to cozy mystery fans.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Henery Press in exchange for my review.

Review: You'll Be Thinking of Me by Densie Webb

You'll Be Thinking of Me
by Densie Webb

Genre: Romance, Crime, Thriller, Mystery
Publication:  January 12th 2015 by Soul Mate Publishing
Format: kindle
Source: ARC
Connect: Goodreads

A chance encounter with a celebrity, an impromptu video, and a shiny new espresso machine. It all added up to a juicy tale for 24-year-old Rachael Allen to share with friends. But when her best friend posts the video online, bizarre threats, home break-ins, and deadly gifts from an obsessed fan follow close behind. Mick Sullivan, the star in her video, offers to help and in the process, Rachael discovers that despite his reputation as a player of Olympian caliber, he’s down-to-earth—and emotionally damaged. He has secrets; some he’s shared only with his pseudo best friend. Others he's shared with no one. But there's one secret he’s hidden from himself, washed away by too many beers. Despite wildly divergent life paths, their shared southern upbringing (and a passion for good music) creates a common thread that draws them together.

As the threats escalate, and their relationship deepens, Rachael struggles to accept Mick’s past—and his present. And she is forced to confront her own obsessive love to ultimately decide if being with Mick Sullivan is worth the collateral damage.

YOU'LL BE THINKING OF ME is the story of Rachael's serendipitous encounter with a celebrity, her brush with obsessive love, and the bittersweet gift left behind by the very person fixated on destroying her life.

When Rachel Allen shared a video of her meeting with a celebrity, Mick Sullivan with her friend, she didn't expect that her friend would post the video online. Since then, Rachel has gotten threats, and few other 'gifts' from Mick's obsessed fan. Mick persuaded Rachel to move into his home until they caught the stalker, but the stalker's threat gotten more serious, and their lives were in danger.

Wow. This book isn't what I've expected. I really enjoyed this book right from the start. Rachel and Mick were two likable characters, and I really enjoyed their interactions and chemistry. The other characters made the story much more interesting too. Although, I couldn't say that I like Rachel's best friend. There's a little bit of crime, suspense and romance that makes me want to continue reading until the end. I really like Densie Webb's style and how she built the story in You'll Be Thinking of Me. The tension building with the sick stalker was really good. There was a little bit of twists towards the end that I didn't expect. 

I absolutely recommend You'll Be Thinking of Me to those who enjoy reading a bit of  mystery and thrill. I know that I'll be looking forward to Densie Webb's other work after this.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my review.

Review: Diner Knock Out by Terri L. Austin

Diner Knock Out (Rose Strickland Mystery #4)
by Terri L. Austin

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Crime, Thriller, Mystery, Romance
Publication: October 20th, 2015 by Henery Press
Format: ebook, 245 pages
Source: ARC, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Rose Strickland's life is complicated. Besides her waitressing gig, she works part-time for Andre Thomas, a PI with no faith in Rose's ability to investigate, her love life with Sullivan has stalled, and her BFF, Roxy, has found a new bestie, leaving Rose out in the cold.

Determined to prove herself, Rose takes a case on the sly. As she searches for a missing MMA fighter, Rose discovers an illegal fight club, a group of ruthless businessmen, dead bodies, and a trail of drugs.

Hunting down clues that lead too close to home, Rose finds herself in the fight of her life. Can she beat the killer to the punch before she gets knocked out for good?

Rose Strickland Mystery is definitely one of my favorite cozy mystery series. I'm glad to find that there's a new Rose Strickland's book. And this time, she was working part-time for Andre Thomas, a PI, who was having doubts at Rose's investigation skills. When her boss was out, and a new client walked in with a new job, Rose accepted the case, even though she won't be making money out of it. Unfortunately, this job led her to her boyfriend, Sullivan's, business. Sullivan and his associates weren't  happy with Rose poking at their business.

I was hoping to see a lot more of Roxy's BFF, Roxy and Ax, but was happy with the some new characters too. My favorite in this book was Andre. He sounded tough with Rose, but he cared for her. He made the story much more interesting. Although Rose's relationship with Sullivan didn't go quite well, what with their trusting issues, I absolutely love watching how their relationship grew. I can't wait to see more of them soon! 

Diner Knock Out definitely did not disappoint. There are moments that made me laughed and moments that excited me. The new mystery was interesting up to the end. The story may be a bit slow paced at the beginning, but once the story picked up the pace, I just couldn't put the book down. There were a few surprises and twist that I didn't expect to see. If you loved the previous book from the 'Rose Strickland Mystery', or any cozy mystery, you wouldn't want to miss this one. 

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher/Netgalley in exchange for my review.

Review: On the Road with Del and Louise: A Novel in Stories by Art Taylor

On the Road with Del and Louise: A Novel in Stories
by Art Taylor

Genre: Mystery, Short Stories, Fiction, Drama, Romance
Publication: September 15th, 2015 by Henery Press
Format: ebooks
Source: NetGalley
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Del’s a small time crook with a moral conscience—robbing convenience stores only for tuition and academic expenses. Brash and sassy Louise goes from being a holdup victim to Del’s lover and accomplice. All they want is a fresh start, an honest life, and a chance to build a family together, but fate conspires to put ever-steeper challenges in their path—and escalating temptations, too.

A real estate scam in recession-blighted Southern California. A wine heist in Napa Valley. A Vegas wedding chapel holdup. A kidnapping in an oil-rich North Dakota boomtown. Can Del and Louise stay on the right side of the law? On one another’s good side? And when they head back to Louise’s hometown in North Carolina, what new trouble will prove the biggest: Louise’s nagging mama or a hidden adversary seemingly intent on tearing the couple apart? Or could those be one and the same?

From screwball comedy to domestic drama, and from caper tale to traditional whodunit, these six stories offer suspense with a side of romance—and a little something for all tastes.

I'm not sure what to expect when I first read this book, but, the title and the cover look fun, and I decided to give it a try. Del and Louise met when Del robbed the convenience store where Louise was working at, and he asked her out. All they wanted was a fresh start and an honest life. That was when their journey began. But it wasn't easy. Trouble seemed to follow them wherever they go, and forcing them to break the law again.

I really like how the story begins. The author's writing was easy to read. The characters were fun and interesting. I love how Del and Louise met at the convenience store, and I wanted to read and find out what will happen to Del and Louise. But, after a while, I got bored. This is probably because I have a short attention span, and the chapters (or stories) were a bit too long. I might enjoy the story a bit more if it weren't for the long chapters.

Nevertheless, I do enjoy the Del and Louise's journey in the story. I love the romance between them. They may not have that fairytale romance, but, they always have each other. And I like that a lot about them. I wanted to cheer for them no matter what they're going through. There were some laugh-out-loud moments, as well as moments that made me teary. If you're a fan of mystery, and you don't mind reading books with long chapter, you will definitely love On the Road with Del and Louise.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.

Review: When by Victoria Laurie

When
by Victoria Laurie

Genre: Crime, Fantasy, Mystery, Paranormal, Young Adult
Publication: Jan 13 2015, Disney-Hyperion
Format: ebook
Source: Netgalley
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Maddie Fynn is a shy high school junior, cursed with an eerie intuitive ability: she sees a series of unique digits hovering above the foreheads of each person she encounters. Her earliest memories are marked by these numbers, but it takes her father’s premature death for Maddie and her family to realize that these mysterious digits are actually death dates, and just like birthdays, everyone has one.

Forced by her alcoholic mother to use her ability to make extra money, Maddie identifies the quickly approaching death date of one client's young son, but because her ability only allows her to see the when and not the how, she’s unable to offer any more insight. When the boy goes missing on that exact date, law enforcement turns to Maddie.

Soon, Maddie is entangled in a homicide investigation, and more young people disappear and are later found murdered. A suspect for the investigation, a target for the murderer, and attracting the attentions of a mysterious young admirer who may be connected to it all, Maddie's whole existence is about to be turned upside down. Can she right things before it's too late?

I wanted to read this book when I saw the author (I have previously read Victoria Laurie's book from the The Psychic Eye Mysteries and liked it) and saw the synopsis. I was intrigued by the idea of how Maddie can see the death day.

Maddie's father died earlier in the story, and Maddie blamed herself, knowing that she could save her father's life with her gift. When she saw the death date of her client's son, she wanted to save him, because part of her felt guilty that she was not able to save her father. But when the boy went missing on the date, Maddie was suddenly a suspect. 

I really like Maddie. She's kind, loyal and brave enough to go through things to prove that she and her friend is innocent. The other supporting characters made the book much more interesting. I really enjoyed the interaction between Maddie and Uncle Donny. I like how he was always looking after Maddie and her mom. And Detective Faraday! He wasn't really my favorite in the beginning, but he wasn't so bad after a while. 

This book pulled me right from the start. Once I start, it was very hard to put down. The pace was perfect and the plot was really great. There were a few twists that I wasn't expecting, but in the end, the book was written up nicely with a cute surprise. It would be awesome if the book could be made into a movie. When, or Death Date by Victoria Laurie is an enjoyable read filled with YA mystery. This is definitely one of the 2015 books you should look forward to. I would definitely recommend When to mystery/paranormal fan.

Disclaimer: I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review: The Madman's Daughter by Megan Shepherd

The Madman's Daughter (The Madman's Daughter #1)
by Megan Shepherd 

Genre: Fantasy, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Young Adult
Publication: January, 2013 by Balzer + Bray
Format: Paperback, 420 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Sixteen-year-old Juliet Moreau has built a life for herself in London, working as a maid and trying to forget the scandal that ruined her life. After all, no one ever proved the rumours about her father's gruesome experiments. But when she learns he's alive and continuing his work on a remote tropical island, she's determined to find out if the accusations were true.

Accompanied by her father's handsome young assistant, Montgomery, and an enigmatic castaway, Edward, Juliet travels to the island, only to discover the secret of her father's new life: He experiments on animals so that they resemble, speak, and behave as humans.

Torn between horror and scientific curiosity, Juliet knows she must end her father's dangerous experiments and escape her jungle prison before it's too late. Yet as the island falls into chaos, she discovers the extent of her father's genius - and madness - in her own blood.

The Madman’s Daughter was not the kind of book that I usually read. I didn’t read a lot of horror and I'm not really a fan. But once I see the cover of The Madman's Daughter, and read the synopsis, I knew that I wanted to give this book a try.

Juliet Moreau worked as a cleaning maid in a medical school after her father’s scandal and her mother’s death. When she saw one of her father’s diagrams, she began to investigate it, hoping that her father has returned to London. But she met Montgomery, a servant boy from her childhood. Juliet then convinced Montgomery to take her to her father.

This story was supposed to be inspired by The Island of Dr. Moreau by H.G. Wells. I haven’t read or seen the movie yet. But The Madman’s Daughter was definitely a great read. I like Megan Shepherd’s writing. I admit that I wasn’t really into the book at first. I’m not into horror, and that thing with that rabbit at the beginning was disgusting (poor rabbit!). Besides, I think that the pace was a bit slow for my liking. But after a while, it was hard to put down the book. I’m shocked to find out what Juliet father did on the island. But I love the mysterious surrounding around the island and I am very curious to know what was going to happen to everyone. 

There was a twist at the end of the book that I did not expect. But I still like the book (more than I think I would). I can’t wait to read the next book and find out what will happen to Juliet, next. I would recommend this book to horror/mystery lovers.

Review: Exposure by Kathy Reichs

Exposure (Virals #4)
by Kathy Reichs & Brendan Reichs

Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Mystery, Science Fiction, Young Adult
Publication: April 10th 2014 by Arrow
Format: Paperback, 432 pages
Source: Own
Connect to Kathy: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Tory Brennan - great niece of Dr Temperance Brennan - and the Virals return for their most terrifying adventure yet.

Morris Island has barely had a chance to return to normality after the high profile trial of the Gamemaster, when two local students seem to vanish into thin air.

Tory Brennan and the Virals pack, move quickly in their attempts to discover what has happened to their twin classmates. But the pack's canine powers are growing wilder, and it is becoming ever harder to conceal the secret which protects them.

When Tory and her friends find evidence of blood in the students' basement, they realise that the disappearance is no game.

But in order to save the twins, the Virals must risk the exposure of their powers, and in doing so put even their own lives in terrible danger.

I’m excited to see what the Virals are going to face this time. In Exposure, the Virals relationship has changed, since the last event with the Gamemaster, especially between Tory and Ben. It was fascinating to see how the Virals are going to get back together as a pack. 

I must admit that I wasn’t really intrigued by the case of the missing classmate at first. But, the writers did a great job in building the plot. I am excited to see the Virals back with another adventure and danger. Their powers are getting stronger and harder to control. I’m very happy to see Chance Claybourne. He made the story much more interesting. He just won’t stop until he finds out the Virals’ secret, to prove his sanity. 

I have to say that Kathy and Brendan Reichs did a really great job in writing this book. Exposure is packed with excitement! It was very hard to put down the book. I need to find out what happen to the Virals. I love Tory and the Virals. Hi and Shelton never disappoint to humor me. Exposure ended with a brilliant cliffhanger. I can’t wait to read the next book! 

Review: Perception by Kim Harrington

Perception (Clarity #2)
by Kim Harrington

Genre: Crime, Mystery, Paranormal, Romance, Young Adult
Publication: March 1st, 2013 by Scholastic
Format: Paperback, 324 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook

When you can see things others can't, what do you do when someone's watching you?

Everybody knows about Clarity "Clare" Fern. She's the psychic girl in school, the one who can place her hands on something and see hidden visions from the past.

Only Clare would rather not be a celebrity. She prefers hanging back, observing. Her gift is not a game to her.

But then someone starts playing with her head... and heart. Messages and gifts from a secret admirer crop up everywhere Clare turns. Could they be from Gabriel, the gorgeous boy who gets Clare's pulse racing? Or from Justin, Clare's hopeful ex-boyfriend who'd do anything to win her back?

One thing is certain. Clare needs to solve this mystery, and soon. Because the messages are becoming sinister, and a girl in town has suddenly disappeared. Clare needs to see her way to the truth — before it's much too late.

In the previous book, Clarity, Clare solved a murder mystery with her psychometric ability. After that, Clare’s social life turned upside down. She began to receive attention from the people around her. But then, she started to receive notes and gifts from a secret admirer. Clare suspected that the gifts might be from Gabriel, the good-looking boy who she likes, or Justin, her ex-boyfriend who wanted to win her back. But then, the messages started to become disturbing. Clare needed to find out the truth about her secret admirer, especially after a girl in town had suddenly disappeared.

I enjoyed this book. Although, not as much as Clarity. Clare was a fun character. She’s smart, curious, kind and sassy. I enjoyed Clare’s adventure in this book to uncover the truth of her secret admirer, while poking around the mystery of a disappeared girl. The writing style made this an easy and entertaining read. I read this within one sitting. I just can’t put down the book and I need to find out the truth behind the mysteries. 

Perception was definitely an enjoyable and mystery read. If you enjoy light mystery, you’re going to love this book.

Review: Prosecco Pink by Traci Andrighetti

Prosecco Pink (Franki Amato Mysteries #2)
by Traci Andrighetti

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Chick Lit
Publication: January 2014, Gemma Halliday Publishing
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, CLP Blog Tour
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook

For Franki Amato, life in New Orleans is anything but “The Big Easy.” When she met handsome bank executive Bradley Hartmann, she knew she’d finally found a man she could trust. But she can’t say the same for his sexy new secretary, who is about as trustworthy as Mata Hari and every bit as seductive. Meanwhile, Franki’s best friend and employer, Veronica Maggio, has named her the lead investigator in the murder of a gorgeous cosmetics CEO who was found lying dead in the master bedroom of a historic plantation home.

Now the pressure is on Franki to figure out what a bottle of pink lip gloss and the legend of a pink diamond have to do with the bizarre killing. The problem is that the plantation is notorious for being haunted, and Franki is less than enthusiastic about the prospect of meeting a ghost. Adding to her stress, her Sicilian grandma is up to her usual meddling antics—this time planning Franki’s engagement to Bradley before he’s even considered popping the question. As Bradley grows distant and plantation employees begin dropping like Southern belles during a sweltering summer, Franki turns to a psychic with a phobia of ghosts to solve the mysterious murders and her own relationship fears.

Franki Amato is back! And this time, Franki was assigned to lead the investigation of a murder of a cosmetics CEO in the historic plantation home. Not that the investigation was going to be easy with the plantation being haunted, and Franki received a few threats. Moreover, Franki had to deal with her meddling noona, and her boyfriend’s seductive, new secretary.

I love this book. Prosecco Pink is the second book from Franki Amato Mystery series, but it can be read as a standalone. In my opinion, Prosecco Pink was definitely better than the first book. It was a lot more exciting, and the mystery behind Franki’s case hooked me right from the start. I’m happy that noona was back with her new scheme for her granddaughter. What I love most about the series was the supporting characters. They made the story much more entertaining. I’m looking to see more of Franki’s family and Glenda. I bet they’re going to be fun. 

Prosecco Pink has the right amount of mystery, suspense, humor and romance. I would definitely recommend this book to Cozy Mystery lover.

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Review: Limoncello Yellow by Traci Andrighetti

Limoncello Yellow (Franki Amato Mystery)
by Traci Andrighetti

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Chick Lit
Publication: January 2014, Gemma Halliday Publishing
Format: ebook
Source: Own
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Francesca "Franki" Amato is a tough-talking rookie cop in Austin, Texas—until an unfortunate 911 call involving her boyfriend, Vince, and a German female wrestler convinces her once and for all that she just isn't cut out for a life on the police force. So Franki makes the snap decision to move to New Orleans to work at her friend Veronica's detective agency, Private Chicks, Inc. But Franki's hopes for a more stable life are soon dashed when Private Chicks is hired by the prime suspect in a murder case to find out what really happened to a beautiful young boutique manager who was found strangled to death with a cheap yellow scarf. When she's not investigating, Franki is hoping to seduce handsome bank executive Bradley Hartmann, but most of her time is spent dodging date offers from a string of "good Italian boys"—make that not-so-good aging Italian men—that her meddlesome Sicilian grandma has recruited as marriage candidates. As Mardi Gras approaches and the mystery of the murdered shop girl gets more complicated, Franki must decipher the odd ramblings of a Voodoo priestess to solve both the murder and the mystery of her own love life.

Francesca "Franki" Amato caught her boyfriend, Vince, with a German female wrestler and convinced that life with the police force isn’t for her. Franki moved o New Orleans to work with her friend, Veronica at her detective agency, Private Chicks, Inc. Her first case was to investigate a murder case, where a woman was found strangled to death with a yellow scarf.

Limoncello Yellow by Traci Andrighetti is a fun, quick read. Franki Amato was fun and sassy. I loved the characters around Franki, especially her noona. Her noona’s matchmaking plans for Franki were mostly humorous! I am happy that the book focused more on the investigations. The mystery was neatly written. There were a few twists that I did not see it coming. I had to keep guessing who the murder was. I love the way the writer described things, especially the characters and the scenes around them. If you’re a fan of cozy mystery, you’re going to enjoy this book.

On Tour: The Achilles Heel by Karyn Rae - Review + Excerpt

Karyn Rae is now on tour with CLP Blog Tours with her book, The Achilles Heel. Please visit her page for more blog stops and a chance  to win a $20 Amazon gift card.

The Achilles Heel (Achilles, #1)
by Karyn Rae

Genre: Adult, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Mystery, Romance
Publication: April 2014
Format: ebooks
Source: ARC, CLP Blog Tours
Connect: Website
Buy: Amazon

Annie Whitman’s ordinary Midwest life is shattered with the sudden death of her husband Jack. Thirty-five and failing at life as a widow, she turns to the comforts of vodka in an attempt to camouflage the cold sheets of an empty bed. The necessary inebriation helps her to cope with Jack’s death, but proves to be a deterrent in recovering any sense of normalcy. After spending several months at the bottom of a bottle, Annie stumbles upon a lockbox in the crawl space of her basement. Opening this box also opens her eyes to the likelihood that Jack Whitman might not have been the honest and doting man she married.

Annie embarks on a mission to the Virgin Islands to uncover the truth about her husband’s past and seek safety from her brother-in-law, who seems to be the captain of his own sinking ship. While settling into paradise, she meets the wickedly handsome, but surprisingly reserved Kessler Carlisle, who is struggling with his retirement from country music superstardom. With Kessler’s help, Annie discovers the heart’s uncanny ability to heal, and the possibility that dead men don’t always keep their secrets-even if they’re buried in the Caribbean waters of St. Croix.

The Achilles Heel delves into the formidable fact that everyone harbors darkness, and some will go to the depths of the ocean to keep their

I received a copy of The Achilles Heel by Karyn Rae from the author/CLP Blog Tours as part of the book tour.

When Annie's husband is killed in a car crash, she was devastated. She started to drink a lot and smoked. While Annie was getting some decoration or her niece and nephew, she found a box that she knew nothing about. Annie unlocked the box and found a picture that led her to St. Crox. Annie then found out that her husband might not be who she thought he was.

The Achilles Heel would be perfect for those who love mystery/romance. The story was a bit slow paced at the beginning. But the mystery was well written. I enjoyed Annie’s adventure as she found more clues about her husband.   At first, I was a bit confused and worried with how Kessler’s story going to fit with Annie’s. But, things work out in the end. Although, I do think that the romance between Annie and Kessler was a little too quick. 

Overall, The Achilles Heel was a good read if you enjoy a good mystery romance.

Excerpt

ANNIE

Don’t put your hat on. Please don’t put your hat on.

Crossing my fingers like a grade school child wishing for a snowstorm in August, I watched him take his time as he gathered what looked to be papers, but I wasn’t quite sure. He took in a deep breath and let it out slowly while grabbing his hat from the dashboard. For some reason, I had the notion if he didn’t put on the hat to complete his uniform, this visit would be somewhat less official. He noticed me standing in the sliver of the window framing my front door. He paused, shut his car door, and straightened his trousers a tad- when one goes from sitting to standing and is between pant sizes. Finally, he put on that goddamn hat.

As he walked towards the door, gravel from the driveway crunched under his heavy black boots. Streaks of sweat ran down his sunlit glistened face. His heavily starched shirt sported a soaking wet “V” on the chest connecting to the wetness under both arms. With record high temperatures in Kansas City reaching 106 during the first week of June, I was secretly glad he was hot, and it almost made me happy to think he might be suffering a bit. Our eyes made contact when he reached the red-brick porch steps, and I knew. He could have turned around, got back in his police car and never said a word to me; his eyes told me the whole story. Maybe his eyes didn’t tell me the entire story, but they certainly implied the most important part- the ending. As he stood on the opposing side of the window, the glare from his name badge which read GRADY shone in my right eye, causing me to wince.

“Ma’am,” he asked through the double paned glass. “Are you all right?”

I just stood there, staring blankly. Why is he here to ask me if I’m okay? Is this guy a fucking idiot? What cop comes to someone’s front door, scares the hell out of them, and opens with a question like, “Ma’am, are you all right?” I was doing just fine before he pulled into my driveway.

“Ma’am,” he started again, as he tapped on the window trying to get my attention and break the paralyzing trance holding me motionless. “Are you okay? You’re bleeding!”

At that moment, I tasted the blood. As I mentally calculated his every move from the car to the door, knowing he wasn’t here to give me stellar news (cops don’t randomly show up at your house for no reason) I hadn’t noticed I was biting down on my lip. It must have been hard, because the blood was now running down the side of my chin.

I tried to answer, but only felt air pass between my lips; my voice lost in translation. I nodded my head up and down in a “Yes” motion.

Officer Grady asked, “Are you Annie Whitman, the wife of a Mr. Jack Whitman?”

Again with the up and down, “Yes,” motion.

“Could you please open the door?” he asked. “I’d like to come in and speak with you for a moment.”

I reluctantly but automatically obeyed, and the creak of the screen door was synonymous with a horror movie. Apparently, I was the main character.

“Ma’am, your husband was in an accident on the highway this morning. There were no survivors. We believe he was killed upon impact and have launched an investigation into the crash, but unfortunately, we don’t know many details yet. I’m so very sorry to bring you this devastating news. Is there someone you can call to come be with you right now?”

“No, no, you’re wrong,” I croaked, with a broken and raspy voice like someone infested with the forty-eight hour flu. “My husband is at work, and this is a mistake.” I tried again, but only fragments of sound spit into the air. I wasn’t forming recognizable words. “I’ll just call him, and we can clear this up. You’ll see it’s just terrible mistake,” I stammered, as I pulled my cell phone off the deep-chested entry table and tried to will my hands to stop shaking enough to dial the number.

“Oh, no, Jack, no,” I whispered through gritted teeth when the call went straight to his voicemail.

I dialed again. “Shit. No. Please, no,” my voiced squeaked as I paced back and forth. With my right hand barely sturdy enough to hold the phone to my ear and my left hand tucked tightly under the opposing armpit, I filled my fingers full of skin, pinching down as hard as possible in an attempt to divert the pain of feeling my heart rip apart.

Officer Grady extended his arms and shifted his feet each time I shuffled near him, initiating words of comfort, but quickly realizing his efforts were powerless when dealing with someone who’s rapidly sinking in the quicksand of denial.

Finally, he stepped into my path, and with a tight grip on both slumping shoulders, softly turned me around to face him.

The fact that I had bitten entirely through a small portion of my bottom lip seemed to startle him, and while the stream of blood continued to remain constant, he gently took control of my breakdown. “Mrs. Whitman,” he whispered. “Who should I call? You need someone with you right now. Please, is there someone I can call for you?”

This time a small and childlike “Yes,” escaped through my bloody lips. I felt like it shouldn’t take so much effort to say one little word, a word we use a hundred times a day, but it was hard and completely exhausting. It was as if the sound from this three letter word had held my lips apart just long enough for my soul to escape.

He pulled out a bandana, applying pressure to my mouth, and in exchange, I handed him my cell phone with the contact name Jamie lit up in blue letters on the screen. Someone would need to tell my brother-in-law that his older brother Jack was dead.

As Officer Grady took the phone from my hand, a tiny, purple orb slowly drifted past my line of vision and across his chest. Confused, my eyes followed the speck, only to see it suddenly multiply a thousand times, and then each orb began to swell. The purple color faded to the outside of the circle and a bead of light replaced the center like the dimmer switch on an LED bulb. Trying to blink the beacons away only seemed to make them brighter, and within moments the fluorescent illumination blinded me. The weight of my body became too burdensome for my legs, even my hair felt heavy. As if I were riding on a roller coaster and cresting the highest peak, I closed my eyes to the brightness just as I felt myself plummeting to the ground.

My name is Andrea Whitman and those were the last moments of this life as I knew them.

Author Bio:

Karyn Rae is an emerging Romantic-Suspense author. Her debut novel, The Achilles Heel was released in May 2014. She is a member of the Romance Writers of America, and the Columbia Chapter of the Missouri Writers Guild. Karyn resides in Missouri with her husband, son, daughter, and chocolate lab- Augusta Mae. The first part of Karyn's life was spent in the South, and the last fifteen years have played out in the Midwest, but she's still holding on to a shred of her Southern roots. She is a wife, mother, daughter, and sister who has made it her mission in life to carve out a career for herself, while keeping the husband and the children happy.