Mary's 2021 Reading List

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Mary's 2021 Reading List

1marykuhl
Editado: Fev 2, 2021, 6:45 pm

Welcome 2021!
I'd like to be optimistic that you will be better than 2020.

January 2021

📚 6/6 -read for the month

I Escaped from Auschwitz by Rudolf Vrba finished 1/6/21 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Perfect Guests by Emma Rous - 🎈 1/12/21 - finished 1/8/21 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Newlyweds by Arianne Richmonde - 🎈 1/19/21 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Network of Deceit by Tom Threadgill - 🎈 2/2/21 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Shadow Man by Helen Fields - 🎈 2/4/21 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A Fatal Lie by Charles Todd - 🎈 2/4/21 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐

KEY = waiting to read ⏳ - currently reading 📖 release date - 🎈

2marykuhl
Editado: Jan 8, 2021, 8:56 pm

I Escaped from Auschwitz - 4 stars
standalone
paperback
Poland
January #1

I read this book, this month in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Even though this was an incredible story of heroism, of who to trust and not to trust, and hope was taken away at every turn, I did not close this book with the emotions I have had while reading other WWII/Concentration Camp stories. This was difficult for me to read, not because the of content and horrors, but because there was a lot of description about the layouts of the camps and the work to be done. I didn't feel any connection to other prisoners that I know he had. I am not downgrading the story of Mr. Vrba and what he and millions went through, but the writing didn't evoke a lot of emotion in me. That being said, because of the story, 4 stars.

3marykuhl
Jan 8, 2021, 8:52 pm

The Perfect Guests - 5 stars
standalone
netgalley
The Fens (Fenlands) UK
January #2

This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sadie an aspiring actress is invited to spend the weekend at Raven Hall for a Murder Mystery that the company who owns the home is starting up. Beth, a teenage orphan is taken in my Leonora and Markus.

Told from 2 main POV, Beth 1988 - 1989 and Sadie 2019, and then a story of a previous resident of Raven Hall mixed in. These two stories and timeframes collide. This was a fast paced, easy to read novel. I wanted to keep reading to A) figure out why Beth was taken in by this family, why was she part "of their game" and B) what is going on present day, who is in charge. The author does a great job of tying up all questions. I flew through this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you NetGalley, Berkley Publishing Group and Emma Rous.

4marykuhl
Jan 16, 2021, 8:59 pm

The Newlyweds by Arianne Richmonde - 4 stars
standalone
netgalley
Beaufort, South Carolina
January #3

This book was provided to me from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is starts with the wedding of Vivien and Ashton. Ashton is a wealthy neurosurgeon and Vivien has tailored her life to fit into Ashton’s world. They have the perfect marriage… or do they? Vivien and Ashton have a long-time relationship, except, only one of them knows it. Secrets are around every corner. But they are buried deeper than anyone knows. This is definitely a “till the end” kind of story. This book is set in Beaufort South Carolina and is very descriptive. I was impressed with this story, and would recommend it. Thank you NetGalley, Arianne Richmonde and Bookouture.

5marykuhl
Jan 23, 2021, 10:09 am

Network of Deceit by Tom Threadgill - 4 stars
#2 Amara Alvarez
netgalley
San Antonio, Texas
January #4

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Detective Amara Alvarez, new to the homicide division, is given her first case. She doesn't give up, even though there is no confirmation yet that this is a homicide. Working on this case alone, dealing with family issues, and some personal stuff, she is relentless. She wants to prove to everyone that she deserves to be there and can handle herself. This about the gaming world and hackers. There is a lot of IT information, but not enough to lose you. This is the 2nd book in the series, and even though I encourage anyone who hasn't read Collision of Lies to do so, you would be fine reading this one first. Thank you NetGalley, Tom Threadgill and Revell Books.

6marykuhl
Jan 27, 2021, 8:04 pm

The Shadow Man by Helen Fields - 4 stars
standalone
netgalley
Scotland
January #5

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I have some mixed feelings one this one. DI Baarda, an MIT detective in London and Dr. Connie Woolwine a psychologist from from America are called to Scotland to investigate the kidnapping of a member of a prominent Scottish family. Then a teenager is kidnapped. I like the relationship between Baarda and Connie. Connie is a brash American and Baarda, at first isn't sure how to take her. But they end up trusting in each other. What I didn't like was the story of the kidnapper. I got why he kidnapped the victims, he was clearly ill and all of that was explained, but his delusions left me not interested and not wanting to read. Meggie and Elspeth leaned on each other and their storylines help my interest. I felt like Xavier's story sort of ended, maybe to quickly. Also, and this is me personally, but Connie is America, so she wouldn't be happy that she wore her "trainers", or reach down to take off her "trainers". The ending was something I wouldn't have thought of happening so it was a bit of a shocker. Thank you NetGalley, Helen Fields and Avon.

7marykuhl
Fev 2, 2021, 6:41 pm

A Fatal Lie by Charles Todd
Ian Rutledge Series
netgalley
Wales
January #6/February #1

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. When Ian Rutledge with Scotland Yard London is called to Wales to investigate a suspicious death, he didn't realize the the twists and turns the investigation would take. A man is found in The Dee River, appearing to be in the water for days, his face is unrecognizable. The only way to track his identity is through a label sewn into his jacket by the tailor. That sends him to notify the victims wife, who was under the impression he was in Shrewsbury. Where the investigation leads from there are months and years old unsolved mysteries. It amazes me how any cases could get solved in the 1920s. Driving from city to city to city, knocking on doors asking questions with some of the residents who aren't forthcoming or willing to help. In this series, there is a lot of remembrances of the Great War. People Rutledge meets talks about their time in the trenches, but this doesn't not take away from the story. Although this is the latest in a series with numbers in the 20s, this is only the 2nd book that I have read. There is not any story lost by jumping in so far. I would recommend this book for sheer willpower of the detectives in the 1920s and the lack of technology that we have now. Thank you NetGalley, William Morris Custom House and Charles Todd.

8marykuhl
Fev 7, 2021, 12:33 pm

Her Perfect Bones by Ellery A Kane - 5 stars
Rockwell & Decker #2
netgalley
Fog Harbor, California
February #2

This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. When a mummified body is discovered in the basement of the cabin next door o Detective Decker, he is pulled into a decades old murder. At the same time, Olivia is looking into her dad's past with the Oaktown boys and his incarceration. Traveling from Fog Harbor to San Francisco, looking for clues as to who the remains belong to, piecing evidence together. This is a very good story. The "catch" of the killer is suspenseful. Without her wanting to, Olivia's past as a young girl and the day her father was arrested surfaces. Deck's past between his father, brothers and ex-fiancée are brought to life a little more. Personally, I like this sequel better than the 1st novel in the Rockwell & Decker Series. I am looking forward to the story continuing.

9marykuhl
Editado: Fev 20, 2021, 8:50 pm

Quiet in her Bones by Nalini Singh - 4 stars
standalone
netgalley
New Zealand
February #3

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. When Nina Rai leaves the house one night, she never returns. A scream wakes her 16-year old son Aarav up and he stands on the balcony and watches his mother drive away. 10 years later, after moving back in with his dad to recover from a car accident, the police come to notify that Nina's car has been recovered, and her bones were discovered inside. She died the night she left, and foul play is expected. Aarav tries to piece the memories of that night, questions the neighbors and looks for clues as to who could want Nina dead. Between hobbling around on crutches, suffering for debilitating migraines, and now suffering from paranoia, Aarav has very strong suspicions, that let's face it, change. Aarav has strong memories of his mother, the only woman who ever loved him. I would definitely recommend this book. Thank you NetGalley, Berkley Publishers and Nalini Singh.

10marykuhl
Fev 14, 2021, 10:19 pm

Escape by Emma Eggleston - 4 stars
standalone
Author received
Pennsylvania
February #4

This is a YA Magical Realism novel. I received this from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Matty is a high school senior, who on the outside is the perfect student, the perfect athlete and the perfect all around citizen, but on the inside he is battling depression. When his doctor prescribes and experiment antidepressant, he befriends Laila a fellow classmate and wants to share his experience with her.

This is a story about teenage depression, teenage love and teenage acceptance of oneself. Matty and Laila grow and become stronger by knowing each other. Laila gets hurt a lot in this relationship and Matty doesn't seem to realize what he has done or said is hurtful. Sometimes the dialogue between Matty and Laila seems a bit unnatural, but overall I got lost in the story. At times I was frustrated with Matty because although he wanted to be with Laila, he seemed more concerned about himself. At times I was upset with Laila because she keep thinking, "I shouldn't..." "or my parents wouldn't like this...", but she did it anyway, because of Matty.

This was a really good story, not what I expected and something I haven't read before. Thank you Emma Eggleston for sharing this story with me.

11marykuhl
Fev 18, 2021, 4:34 pm

One Perfect Grave by Stacy Green - 4 Stars
#2 Nikki Hunt series
NetGalley
Stillwater, Minnesota
February #5

This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the 2nd installment in the Nikki Hunt series. When FBI agent Nikki Hunt is called to the scene of a crime she is told it is the missing little boy, Kellan that she and the whole town have been looking for all weekend. Believed to have been abducted by his mother Dana, she too is found along with Kellan in a possible suicide. Upon further investigation, it is a murder staged to look like suicide. While Nikki and her team are search for clues that lead to the killer, Caitlin, the local news reporter is hounding her about the disappearance of another young boy. Nikki gets involved in a jurisdictional showdown between two sheriffs and steps on a few toes. This is pretty action packed and I liked it even better than the first novel. Thank you NetGalley, Stacy Green and Bookouture.

12marykuhl
Fev 22, 2021, 8:42 pm

The Lake House by Laura Wolfe - 5 stars
standalone
NetGalley
Wisconsin
February #6

This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When 5 old college friends turn 40, they plan a weekend away. They go to a remote cabin by a lake and soon realize they are completely "off the grid" with no cell service. The property is in the middle of a nature reserve and the closest person to them is the owner of the cabin, who quickly gives the women the creeps. They set out exploring on the first day and one of them gets injured and from there, the weekend goes downhill. What should be 4 days of fun, adventure, catching up and celebrating turns into a deadly a terrifying time. I was not disappointed with this story. This is exactly what I imagine when I think of what a weekend away turning dangerous type of book should be. Each book by Laura Wolfe gets better and better! Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Laura Wolfe!

13marykuhl
Editado: Mar 13, 2021, 8:54 pm

Almost Damned by Christopher Leibig - 4 stars
Book Two
publicist
Virginia
March #3

This book was given to me by the publicist in exchange for a review. The book is set to be released on April 1st.
Sam Young, a defense attorney takes on cases where he can "blur the lines". However, he gets a case that will be his biggest one, defending immortals. This is not a criminal case on Earth, but a case in Heaven. The defendants claim to be Fallen Angels. There are a lot of bible versus quoted in this story. And as in Book one, DNA testing and discussion, but all of that ties in to the defendants. I would 100% recommend reading Book One (Almost Mortal) first. I spent some time in the beginning of this book confused.

14marykuhl
Editado: Mar 11, 2021, 7:17 pm

Bitterroot Lake by Alicia Beckman - 4 stars
standalone
NetGalley
Montana
March #1

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Four friends spend a weekend together when a tragedy takes place. 25 years later, they un-expectantly come together in the same spot.
Sarah comes back home to her family's lodge when her husband dies. She finds her old best friend, Janine hiding out in one of the cabins. Janine has just discovered the body of one of the people from that weekend. The friends start to clean up the lodge and find the history of the former owners, find their future and find each other. This was a good mystery. Thank you NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books and Alicia Beckman.

15marykuhl
Mar 11, 2021, 7:17 pm

The Lost Village by Camilla Sten - 5 stars
standalone
NetGalley
Sweden
March #2

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow! I really recommend this book. It is told from two timelines, THEN and NOW. Then is set in the late 1950s in a small village in Silvertjarn, Sweden. The men of the village all worked in the mine, until one day, the mine closed. This left the town in despair with no job prospects and no income. Then one day, everyone in the town disappears, except one newborn baby girl. Fast forward to NOW - Alice's grandmother grew up in Silvertjarn and her mother, father and sister are among the ones that disappeared. Alice has always been fascinated with this and has decided to make a documentary. She and her small crew go to scope out the village to make a trailer in order to get funding for the documentary. What they encounter is a village with secrets. Unexpected injuries, noises and unexplained sightings happen throughout their 5 days. Is one of them messing with the others or are they not alone? I LOVED all the characters (the NOW 5). Thank you so much NetGalley, St. Martin's Press & Minotaur Books and Camilla Sten.

16marykuhl
Editado: Mar 13, 2021, 8:55 pm

Almost Mortal by Christopher Leibig - 4 stars
Book One
publicist
Virginia, Argentina, Cuba, Miami
March #3

This book was given to me by the publicist.
This is a legal thriller about a public defender, Sam Young, who "illegally" takes clients on the side.
There was plenty of courtroom drama involving different cases, but what set this book apart, is a journal Sam receives detailing the life of a teenager in 1950s Argentina. The writer and younger brother escape an abusive home, find there way to Cuba fighting with Che Guevara for Fidel Castro, and eventually onto Miami.
Sam was told this journal had ties to a serial killer in the area, and Sam investigates the legitimacy of this journal. If this is accurate, the writer would be in their 70's and not a likely suspect for a serial killer.
There is a lot of DNA talk in this story, but it all ties in to the mortality of the surrounding characters.

17marykuhl
Editado: Mar 21, 2021, 3:32 pm

The Blessed Bones by Kathryn Casey - 5 stars
#3 Detective Clara Jefferies
netgalley
Alber, Utah
March #4

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The Blessed Bones #3 in the Detective Clara Jefferies series was a book I couldn't put down. When the skeletal remains of a young girl and a full term baby are found buried on the mountainside Sheriff Clara Jefferies and Deputy Assistant Max Anderson investigate how she could have ended up there. DNA testing to identify her, and a sketch made from her skull is rushed through by Ex-US Marshal Ash Crawford. Clara is mistrustful of the ex-marshal. He has inserted himself in the investigation, but doesn't seem to be truthful as to why he wants to help. Again, all of the characters in this story are wonderful. Clara is also investigating a case from the Alber "tombs". This has her investigating a case that is past the realm is statutory limits, but she still pursues. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and of course, it seems to end on a cliff hanger, so I am now anxiously awaiting #4! Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Kathryn Casey.

18marykuhl
Editado: Mar 21, 2021, 3:27 pm

Stolen Daughters by Carolyn Arnold - 4 stars
#2 Amanda Steele
netgalley
Dumfries, Virginia (Prince William County)
March #5

This book was provided to me by Bookouture through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is book 2 in the Detective Amanda Steele series.
When Amanda and her partner, Trent Stenson are called to a house fire where a body has been pulled from, it links back to a trafficking ring named DC. Amanda has already had dealings with this ring (read The Little Grave), so she is rushing to find the leader and save the victims. But why is someone killing the victims?
Amanda, Trent, Sargent Malone and Patty Glover are back. Although Patty has a smaller part, she and Amanda still communicate throughout the case. Also, Lt Hill is still out for Amanda's job. She doesn't like her and it is clear that she will do whatever she can to take her down a notch.
I definitely liked Amanda WAY better in this book. She has finally gotten her feet under her, is more grounded, and her life is starting to pull together.
Thank you Bookouture, Carolyn Arnold and NetGalley

19marykuhl
Editado: Mar 26, 2021, 7:56 pm

Land Rites by Andy Maslen - 4 stars
#2 Detective Ford
Wiltshire
netgalley
March #6

This book was provided to me by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the Detective Ford Series.
Set in Wiltshire, Ford is called out when a dog, walking with his owner discovers part of a body. The body had been cut into pieces and buried in a badger sett. Ford and his team question owners of the land when another body is found on an adjacent property.
The first victim's family is heavily into crime and threatens Ford. Ford is given a deadline to find the murderer or the family will take matters into their hands.
I actually liked this book better than the first one; however, there were some slow parts for me. Each victim was killed with a different weapon and there was a lot of the story that centered on guns, the types of guns, who has these guns, where to get the ammo etc. But, tracking and apprehending the killer or killers made it worth it.
Thank you NetGalley, Amazon Publishing and Andy Maslen

20marykuhl
Editado: Mar 29, 2021, 6:42 pm

The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth
standalone
Australia
netgalley
March #7

This book was provided to me by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is marked as a Mystery & Thriller | Women's Fiction on NetGalley and it read more like a "women's fiction" until about half way through. Then all the pieces started to fall into place. This book is told from Fern's POV and from Rose's diary entries. Fern and Rose are fraternal twins, who enter the foster care system at the age of 12 due to their mothers overdose. Fern has major sensory issues: lights, sounds, smells. Rose has always taken care of Fern. Then one day Fern discovers she is pregnant, and Rose who cannot get pregnant decides she and her husband will adopt the baby, since Fern is not reliable enough to care for a child. Without giving any spoilers, Fern learns that she can take care of herself and her baby. I found that while reading both the diary entries and Fern's POV I could see what was happening and what was going to happen. I would not say this is a predictable book, I believe that is the way the story is written. I enjoyed this book, even if I was looking for more of a mystery/thriller upfront, it got there. Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Sally Hepworth for giving me this book!

21marykuhl
Editado: Abr 2, 2021, 7:56 pm

When the Stars Go Dark by Paula McLain
standalone
Mendocino, California
netgalley
April #1

This book was provided to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Anna Hart has recently suffered a trauma and her husband sends her away.
She goes to the only place that's ever felt like home. An old friend, Will, finds her. He is now the sheriff, following in his father's footsteps. A local girl has gone missing, and it tears at Anna. She helps Will with the investigation. Her background is working to find the missing.
Along the way, more girls are reported missing but who knows if they are related.
This story is based in 1993 and blends in the Polly Klaas abduction and mentions the Santa Rosa Hitchhiker.
To find out what Anna's trauma really is, you have to read to the end. Pieces of her story and her upbringing are told throughout the book.
Thank you NetGalley, Random House - Ballantine and Paula McLain.

22marykuhl
Editado: Abr 6, 2021, 6:58 am

The Weekend Away by Sarah Alderson
standalone
Lisbon
netgalley
April #2

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kate and Orla go to Lisbon for a girls weekend. They have been best friends for 20 years. Orla, married and is a new mom and Kate is in going through a divorce.
Kate wants to go out like they did when they were in their 20s - dinner, bars, clubbing- but Orla just wants to stay home and sleep. Orla gives in and they go to dinner then a bar, where they meet two attractive men. Kate's invites them back to the apartment.
Orla wakes the next morning with not much memory of the night before. She discovers that Kate is missing. Orla spends the whole day searching for her.
From there, the search is more uphill. She can't get anyone to take her seriously and she has to go out on her own with the help of her Uber driver to investigate the disappearance,
This is literally a book that you don't find out what happened to Kate until the very end. And I mean the very end. This is a fast, easy read. The last paragraph had my heart pounding.
Thank you NetGalley, Sarah Alderson, Avon and Harpercollins360

23marykuhl
Editado: Abr 9, 2021, 10:27 pm

Hush Little Girl by Lisa Regan
Josie Quinn #11
Denton, Pennsylvania
netgalley
April #3

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's FINALLY Josie and Noah's wedding. But as luck for these two go, the wedding ceremony isn't exactly as they planned.
The body of a 12 year old is discovered on the steps of the church, shortly before the wedding is to begin. Neither Josie nor Noah can ignore the fact that they need to be involved in solving this.
As always, there are hurdles and hoops. The team tries their hardest to shield them and keep them out of the investigation, but that doesn't work out too well.
There is heartbreak, a lot of tears and laughter in this book.
I fell in love with Noah all over again throughout this story. Seeing him through Josie's eyes. The things he says and does just make him the perfect person for Josie.
Josie Quinn is still my favorite series right now.
Thank you Bookouture, Lisa Regan and NetGalley.

24marykuhl
Editado: Abr 12, 2021, 6:28 pm

Last Day Alive by J.R. Adler
Detective Kimberley King #2
Dead Woman Crossing, Custer County, Oklahoma
netgalley
April #4

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This is the 2nd book in the Detective Kimberley King series and I have to say, I liked this better than the 1st one.
When a call comes into the Custer County Sheriff's department to report a 10-year old girl as missing, everyone jumps into the search. Unfortunately, she has already been missing for 18-hours. The sheriff's department delve into Piper's life, learning that her grandparents have custody, mother is a drug addict, there is no father in the picture and she only has one friend Miley. Then Miley goes missing and it is a race to save her. Could the girls have been abducted by the same person? Where is he hiding them? I did not guess the outcome of this story. The climax had my heart pounding. Good detective work. Also, the chemistry between all of the people at the department make you want to be friends with all of them. (Except Deputy Lodge)
Thank you Netgalley, Bookouture and J.R. Adler.

25marykuhl
Editado: Abr 14, 2021, 7:06 pm

The Flight Girls by Noelle Salazar
standalone
multiple locations
paperback
April #5

I don't tear myself away from mystery/thrillers too often but when I do it's usually historical fictional (WWII or Tudor eras - I know big difference)

The Flight Girls is about a group of women that flew planes during WWII. What I didn't know was that their were female pilots PRE-WWII.
This story follows Audrey, who teaches flying to Army pilots in Hawaii. Yep, you guessed it, she is mid-flight during the attack on Pearl Harbor. We follow her back home to Dallas, from there she joins the WASP (Women's Army Service Pilots) who transport planes across the country for the Army.
They are only civilians and have no military benefits.
In the background is a love story, friendships and heartbreak. Experience the fear Audrey endured during that flight on a dreadful day in December, her many friendships, her greatest love and many losses. I was really late to the bandwagon on this book, but if you love anything World War II, and strong women who know what they want, I would definitely recommend this book.

26marykuhl
Editado: Abr 19, 2021, 5:39 pm

Little Boy Lost by Ruhi Choudhary
#3 Mackenzie Price
Lakemore, Washington
netgalley
April #6

This was was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When 3 boys go missing during a field trip, evidence leads Detectives Mackenzie Price and Nick Blackwood to re-investigate a murder from years ago everyone thought was solved.
In the meantime, a new detective comes to town and starts investigating the murder of Mackenzie's father. This book did not end on a cliffhanger like the previous two. Although I didn't mind the cliffhangers, it was nice to have closure on a part of the storyline. That's not to say it won't come back around a few books down the line. Throughout the book I was worried for the safety of the children. Didn't guess who was behind the abductions and why. And the ending was heart pounding. I would recommend this book.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture, and Ruhi Choudhary.

27marykuhl
Editado: Abr 22, 2021, 8:24 pm

Affliction by Laura Hall
standalone/memoir
California
publisher
April #7

Laura tells the story of growing up with 2 loving parents, only to discover her father is gay. Ralph and Irene meet in 1941 and continue their love story until Irene's death, however Irene discovers that Ralph is gay and has been hiding it from her and his 4 children. I didn't know what to expect from this memoir, but it shows how Ralph tried to be happy in his choice with his wife and kids and Irene supported and loved him. Laura had some difficulties before she even knew about her father's secret. From night terrors anxiety and migraines. Worrying about her father leaving one day and never returning and believing that all men are unfaithful. All the things that Laura can look back on now that points to what in this time we stereotypically think of as gay behavior, but back in the 50's and 60's never knowing that this isn't how a dad should act. I love the prospective her granddaughter Cassie gave her about gay men in the time of her Papa. I'm not ashamed to say I cried. Irene truly loved Ralph and although Ralph didn't feel the exact same way for her, he did love her.

28marykuhl
Editado: Abr 30, 2021, 10:01 pm

Dark Hollows by Steve Frech
standalone
New England
paperback
April #8

I would like too say up front that the ending leaves me wondering what decision was made, but that is not really relevant to the story. The reader and can decide that for yourself. That being said, I really enjoyed this book. When Jacob Reese set out to rent his cabin for travelers, he never imagined in a million years that Laura, a woman that he watched die years ago would come back into his life. Jacob has a successful coffee shop, has a successful rental cottage on his property and has the most adorable dog, Murphy, that everyone loves. One day a renter comes in and she has a similar resemblance to Laura. When she checks out and he goes to clean the cabin, he finds that she has scribbled Laura's name in the guest. One thing leads to another and the things in Jacob's life start to unravel. When he discovers Murphy has been taken, it is all he can do to get him back safely. I was really hooked on this book. Then Murphy was abducted and I was so scared!

29marykuhl
Editado: Abr 30, 2021, 9:57 pm

A Dark and Secret Place by Jen Williams
standalone
England
netgalley
April #9

The book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

When Heather's mom commits suicide she discovers her mom has been writing to a serial killer. Now there is a new set of murders and they are eerily similar. DI Parker sets Heather up to meet the killer to find out his relationship with her mother and if he knows who the new killer is. This book is told from today's perspective but also tells the "Before" which is the background story. For me, this book was OK. There was a commune where Heather's mom stayed as a teenager, the history of Fiddler's Mill and the forest surrounding it. It seemed a lot of the people from the commune were a little crazy if not evil.

30marykuhl
Maio 13, 2021, 6:58 am

The Perfect Lie by Jo Spain
standalone
New York
netgalley
May #1

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Danny jumps out of his apartment window in front of his wife, Erin, and fellow police officers, Erin is at a loss as to why. Fast forward a little over a year later and now she is trial for the murder of her husband.
This was the first book I had read by this author even though I have a few in my TBR and I must say I was not disappointed. This is told from 3 different timelines, THEN, NOW and HARVARD 2016. I didn't figure out what was going on until 90% through this book. This story meshed together in a way that was creative. It tells a lot about a person and what they can do when faced with injustice. Thank you NetGalley, Quercus and Jo Spain!

31marykuhl
Maio 13, 2021, 6:18 pm

Paradox Lake by Vincent Zandri
standalone
New York
netgalley
May #2

I was given a free copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rose and her 12-year old daughter Anna take a 3-month sabbatical to Paradox Lake, a small town in the Adirondacks. A killer from 33 years ago is released from prison and back living in Paradox Lake among the locals. Anna and Rose find themselves fighting for their lives. Sounds promising; but I did not like this book. First of all, Anna calls her mom, Rosie, ALL THE TIME. I can understand if she were being a sarcastic pre-teen but she hardly ever calls her mom. 2nd, the dialogue between the characters drove me crazy. If Rose and Anna are in the same room and are the only ones in the house, do they need to address each other by name? It is almost every sentence they have to start or end with the other persons name. 3rd I understand that your daughter is 12; however you "desperately need time together" but you leave her alone, a lot. 4th and finally, the villain is one of those from a horrible horror film that will not die!!!! I was really irritated with this story.

32marykuhl
Maio 21, 2021, 7:12 am

The Hiding Place by Helen Phifer
#3 Morgan Brookes
Rydal Falls
netgalley
May #3

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This has quickly become one of my favorite series. Morgan Brookes, who is still a rookie detective, somehow ends up in the middle of the investigation and face to face with the killer. When 2 girls go missing within days of each other, Ben, Amy, Des and Morgan search desperately for them. You won't be disappointed if you like non-stop action. Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Helen Phifer.

33marykuhl
Editado: Jul 17, 2021, 2:13 pm

The Family Tree by Steph Mullins and Nicole Mabry - 5 stars
standalone
Brooklyn
netgalley
May #4

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Liz takes a DNA test from 23andme as a present from her cousin, she never dreamed where the results would lead her. Liz finds out there is a serial killer in her family who has been abducting and killing women for over 40 years. Liz wants to connect with her biological family but there are 2 women missing and she can't help but feel guilty when all the evidence points to the person she is getting close to as being the killer.
This story was told from Liz's prospective and alternates with the 25 victims of the Tri-State Killer. I really enjoyed the way this is written. Tells the story of the first abduction and works its way through the months of captivity and ultimately the murders. This book really kept me wondering until the end who the killer was, and then there is a little bit of a "gasp" moment in the prologue. I would recommend this to everyone.

34marykuhl
Editado: Jul 17, 2021, 2:13 pm

One Child Alive by Ellery Kane 4 - stars
#3 Rockwell and Decker series
Fog Harbor, California
netgalley
June #1

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 3rd installment in the Rockwell and Decker Series
When a mother, father and 2 of their 3 children are murdered, Rockwell and Decker search for the killer by questioning the only witness, the 4 year old son who watched his family die.
Once again all the characters you love are back and in full form. Olivia and Emily fight as Olivia tries to protect Emily from pretty much everything, JB is still "detective of the year" and doesn't hesitate to rub it in Will's face, Will is trying to do things by the book and Graham is well, Graham.
Olivia is still searching for answers in her father's death, Will is still trying to put his past behind him all while they are both trying to ignore the feelings they have for one another. This book took me entirely too long to read (it wasn't the books fault!) I would definately recommend this book.

35marykuhl
Editado: Jul 17, 2021, 2:12 pm

Invisible Victim by Mel Sherratt - 4 stars
standalone
UK
netgalley
June #2

A digital copy of this advance reader copy was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Eva, a journalist for a local paper writes a featured article for a woman who has been abducted and then released after 10 days. Then 3 more women go missing, until Eva finds herself locked in a cellar with no memory of how she got there. The abductor doesn't talk and slides a minimal amount of food through the door each day until a confrontation forces the captor to talk. Eva finds herself writing the story of the kidnapper and why each woman has been kidnapped in exchange for her release. This book is written from the kidnapper and Eva's perspective and intersperses the story of the women held captive. The book has some child and domestic abuse but it is a background story than the focal point. Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Mel Sherratt.

36marykuhl
Editado: Jul 17, 2021, 2:11 pm

The Night Hawks by Elly Griffiths - 4 stars
#13 Dr. Ruth Galloway Mysteries
North Norfolk
netgalley
June #3

A digital copy of this advanced reader copy was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the 13th book in the Dr. Ruth Galloway Mysteries series. I have not read any of these books previously. In the beginning of the book, I had a little bit of a difficult time getting the characters straight and their relationship to each other, but once I got on track, this was a really good book. Archeology and murder mysteries, two of my favorite things. Dr. Ruth Galloway is called out to a scene of the crime by DCI Nelson. She unearths skeletal remains, but is part of the investigation. There are several murders that do connect even though they don't seem like they could. Of course, now I want to read the series from the beginning.

37Carol420
Editado: Jun 17, 2021, 6:46 am

>36 marykuhl: This has been one of my favorite series for a long time. You will get exasperated with Ruth and Nelson and some of the things they do will make you want to scream and shake them...especially later on in the series...but you will more than likely always come back for more. I love the Druid in the series.

38marykuhl
Editado: Jul 17, 2021, 2:11 pm

Such a Quiet Place by Megan Miranda - 3 stars
standalone
Virginia
netgalley
June #4

This book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 14 months ago, Ruby was convicted of the double murder of her neighbors. Now her conviction has been overturned and she is back in the neighborhood. Suspicion and tensions mount as everyone who is convinced she is a killer tries to keep their distance. This book was okay for me. There wasn't really any intense moments, just a lot of "what is going to happen?" It shows how people who were once so close can suspect everyone else. Thank you NetGalley, Simon & Schuster and Megan Miranda.

39marykuhl
Jul 17, 2021, 2:10 pm

Where the Truth Lies by Anna Bailey - 2 stars
standalone
Colorado
netgalley
July #1

This ARC was provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. A teenage girl never comes home from a party in the woods. That is the gist of this book. This is set in a small mountain town where the community are all churchgoers and seems to be busybodies. There is drinking, drugs, child and spousal abuse, bible thumping, racism and homosexuality. The God fearing people of Whistling Ridge turn a blind eye on everything that goes on. This is told from a "Then" and "Now" perspective. There are a lot of characters, each doing their own thing, and yeah, the mystery of what happened to Abi gets solved, but it isn't the forefront of the story. I hate to be negative because I know how hard people worked to bring this book together, but it wasn't for me.

40marykuhl
Jul 23, 2021, 8:29 am

The Guilt Trip by Sandie Jones - 4 stars
standalone
Portugal
netgalley
July #2

I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rachel, Jack, Paige and Will all go to Portugal to attend the wedding of Ali and Will, Jack's brother. But the 6 of them spending 4 days together erupts in suspicion, decades old secrets being revealed and a wedding tragedy that no one could have seen coming. The beginning of this story was a little slow for me. There seemed to be a storyline going and then Rachel would reflect on something that happened years ago, and then it would come back around. That was a bit disruptive to me and seemed to break up the flow of the book a bit. But when it all came together it was in the here and now and I didn't want to stop reading it. Overall, it was a good story that I was not disappointed in. Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Sandie Jones. Scheduled release date is 8/3/21.

41marykuhl
Ago 2, 2021, 9:44 am

Her Deadly Touch by Lisa Regan
#12 Josie Quinn
Denton, Pennsylvania
netgalley
August #1

This ARC was provided to me by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The Detective Josie Quinn series has become my favorite series and Her Deadly Touch, the 12th installment is not a disappointment. When a mother of a school bus crash victim goes missing and days later her body is found on the grave of her daughter, the Denton Police are searching for the reasons why and who is responsible. Josie is dealing with the aftermath of the death of a beloved and wondering if she wants to go back to her job after 4 months of suspension. Once again, this story will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat. Thank you Bookouture, NetGalley and Lisa Regan.

42marykuhl
Editado: Abr 23, 2023, 3:37 pm

The Darkness Knows by Arnaldur Indridason
#1 Detective Konrad
Iceland
netgalley
August #2

I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When the body of a man who has been missing for 30 years turns up on a glacier, Konrad, the retired detective who worked the investigation brings himself back in to solve the murder. I enjoyed the aspect of the investigation. But, there were different times when Konrad would think back on his childhood, on his deceased wife and times in the police force that seemed to break up the storyline. It seemed too back and forth with no warning. Again, the investigation kept me reading but I was bored when he was reminiscing. Also, this is more of a mystery than a thriller. Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and Arnaldur Indridason.

43marykuhl
Ago 15, 2021, 10:56 pm

The Family Plot by Megan Collins
standalone

netgalley
August #3

A digital copy of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
When the Lighthouse children gather back at their home for the funeral of their father, the groundskeeper discovers the remains of one of the children who is thought to have ran away 10 years ago. Charlie, Tate, Andy and Dahlia are all named after famous murder victims and their whole life they have honored them. The grew up learning about all sorts of murder victims, that was their homeschooling "curriculum". There has been a serial killer on the island in which they live for decades and because of the uniqueness of the family, most locals are curious about them and some suspect they are involved. I was hooked on this story from the very first page. This is by far my favorite Megan Collins book. Thank you NetGalley, Atria Books, and Megan Collins.

44marykuhl
Ago 18, 2021, 7:40 pm

Lost Angels by Stacy Green
#3 Nikki Hunt
Stillwater, Minnesota
netgalley
August #4

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love Nikki Hunt and her team and they are back at it again trying to track down a serial killer. However, after years of searching for the one they call Frost, he appears to be looking for Nikki. Nikki once again finds herself in the midst of her hometown tracking down a killer and they are closing in on him. From the newest murder victim, a missing woman and a child abduction there is no time to rest. Nikki faces a few issues from her past and will have to come to grips with changes in the near future. This book was fast paced and was hard for me to put down.

45marykuhl
Editado: Ago 28, 2021, 9:13 am

Into the Forest by Rebecca Frankel
standalone
Europe/America
netgalley
August #5

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. When I first read what this book was about I was intrigued by the Jewish people that fled and hid in the woods. Even though I knew that this had happened, I didn't know very much about this and was interested. I was under the impression that this was mainly about this Rabinowitz family and the little boy that they had rescued. However, Philip's rescue was only a small piece of the book. This book gave me a better understanding of the ghettos, and life in the forest. Once in the forest, although the Rabinowitz family story is shared, it is not the focus. The focus is on all the other families and individuals who fled into the forest to hide from the Nazis. Once the family is liberated from the forest, it follows them back to their village, through the Bricha network and eventually to America where they rebuild their lives. The story starts with Philip learning that the woman who saved him is alive and has been thinking/wondering whatever happened to him, and ends with Philip's reunion with the Rabinowitz family. This is written more as a history book. There are not many "conversations" but facts and details. If you are interested in the time in history, this is a good resource regarding a lesser known piece of survival. Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Rebecca Frankel.

46marykuhl
Ago 31, 2021, 9:02 pm

The Necklace by Matt Witten
standalone
Luzerne & Tamarack New York; North Dakota
netgalley
August #6

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 20-years ago, Susan's 7 year old daughter was murdered and the man who killed her is to be executed on Saturday. Susan spends every penny she has to make the trek from New York to North Dakota to view the execution. Through a series of very unfortunate events, Susan eventually finds her way to the town that houses the prison. Along the way, she starts to have doubts about the man sentenced to die. She stumbles upon the missing necklace of her daughter and all roads lead to someone else being the killer. There is nothing like literally waiting to the final second to for the outcome to be revealed. Even though this had subject matter that was a bit intense, it didn't go into too much detail. Although some of the events throughout the week were a bit far-fetched, it didn't turn me off the book. Solid story I would recommend. Thank you NetGalley, Oceanview Publishing and Matt Witten.

47marykuhl
Editado: Set 3, 2021, 4:18 pm

The Missing Hours by Julia Dahl
standalone
NYU
NetGalley
September #1

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

WARNING:
This book is about acquaintance rape and revenge. There is strong language.

This book revolves around the "rich" and "elite" in New York. When Claudia decides to stay on campus her freshman year during spring break, she'd never imagine how her life would spiral out of control. After literally running in to Trevor the day she wakes up from a night where she's had too much to drink and blacked out, she latches onto him as her anchor. She cuts ties with her family and disappears. Her family tries to find her and discovers what happened that night. The story itself was ok. , and it definitely showed how the rich and powerful think they are untouchable. For me this wasn't my type of book. There was a lot of strong language that didn't seem necessary at times. Thanks NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Minotaur books.

48marykuhl
Set 6, 2021, 4:50 pm

The Stowaway by James S Murray and Darren Wearmouth
standalone
Atlantic Ocean
NetGalley
September #2

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the story of a serial killer that escaped justice and found his way onto a cruise ship. He starts to pick off his victims in the middle of the Atlantic ocean. One of the jurors from his trial knows who he is, but trying to convince the ship authorities is proving to be difficult. I enjoyed this story and it was a fast read but, I was a little confused. A hung jury results in a mistrial and the accused should have been re-tried, not set free. If you can get past that part, then this book is fast paced from the media attention one juror received after the trial to her resolve in bringing the killer to justice.

49marykuhl
Set 10, 2021, 8:24 pm

Secrets to the Grave by Steve Frech
#1 Detective Meredith Somerset series
Atlanta, Georgia
NetGalley
September #3

A digital copy of this book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

Detectives Somerset and Foley are called to investigate the murder of a teenage girl whose body was found face down the middle of the street in an upscale neighborhood. Everyone on the street appears to be hiding something.

Detective Tyler Foles is new to homicide and working on his first case. But, he is keeping his personal life private and that puts his new partner at risk.

Detective Meredith Somerset is still dealing with her sister's disappearance more than 20 years later.

I am a sucker for a police procedural and a series so this book meet all my expectations. There is drama, there is mystery and there is suspense. The author also left the ending open to (hopefully) the next book and I can't wait! Thank you NetGalley, Steve Frech, HQ Stories and HarperCollins

50marykuhl
Editado: Set 28, 2021, 7:09 pm

The Silent Witness by Carolyn Arnold
#3 Detective Amanda Steele
Prince William County, Virginia
NetGalley
September #4

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The 3rd installation of the Detective Amanda Steele series and it's better than the last!
Amanda is called out of court to report to the double homicide of a couple and learns their 6 year old daughter, Zoe, is missing. Amanda finds her hiding and discovers that she witnessed the murder of her father. The killers learn that Zoe is still alive and come after her. Amanda will stop at nothing to protect her. From secrets her parents reveal, investigating the homicides, and keeping Zoe safe, Amanda has almost more than she can handle. The sex-trafficking ring from the previous 2 books makes another appearance. I didn't want to put this book down. Amanda and her partner, Trent's relationship is very strong and they seem to grow a little bit more together.
This book will be published on 9/24/21
Thank you Carolyn Arnold, Bookouture and NetGalley.

51marykuhl
Editado: Set 28, 2021, 7:09 pm

His Loving Wife by Miranda Smith - 4 stars
standalone

netgalley
September #5

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the story of the Brooks family, who survives a home invasion and how they deal with it a year later. Told from the point of view of Kate, the mother and wife, this alternates between the events from the night of the attack 12 months ago and leads up to "now". The family is rebuilding, the children in therapy, Kate and Andrew in marriage counseling and Andrew, being a introvert, has joined an online therapy group called Second Chances, for men who are overwhelmed. Now the family is on vacation and Kate still keeps looking over her shoulder for the attacker. Maybe it's paranoia maybe it's more... until events lead her to believe she and her family are in real danger.

I really enjoyed this book. My heart was literally pounding and I was fearful for Kate. This is a truly good book if you like underlying stories about stalkers and the fear they evoke.

Thank you NetGalley, Miranda Smith and Bookouture

52marykuhl
Set 24, 2021, 7:24 am

First Girl to Die by Helen Phifer - 4 stars
#4 Detective Morgan Brookes
Rydal Falls
netgalley
September #6

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Morgan and Ben are called to a school to negotiate a jumper situation when Morgan realizes the jumper is one of her best friends from school and that she was acting strange in the moments before her death. Then one by one her friend group seemingly is targeted. Her Aunt Ettie is questioned and arrested for the poisoning. Morgan tries to clear her Aunt and save her remaining friends. Morgan and Ben fight their feelings for one another even though the entire force thinks they are an item. I love the friendship between Morgan and Ben and Amy's "tell it like it is" attitude.
First To Die is the 4th in the Detective Morgan Brookes series.
If you love detective series like I do check this one out. This comes out October 11, 2021.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Helen Phifer.

53marykuhl
Set 28, 2021, 6:55 pm

The Lighthouse Witches by CJ Cooke - 4 stars
standlone
Lon Haven, Scotland
netgalley
September #7

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This book alternates between 1998 and 2021. It also tells the story of the witches in 1662. In 1998, Liv is a commissioned painter who travels with her 3 children from York to Lon Haven, Scotland to paint a mural inside a lighthouse. Sapphire (Saffy), Liv's oldest daughter is 15. She dislikes her mother and wants to run away. She finds an old grimoire in the bothy where they are staying and starts to learn about the witch trials that took over the island. One day, Saffy and Clover, Liv's youngest daughter go missing. Not long after, Liv is missing. Fast forward to 2021 and Luna, the middle child is searching for her sisters, when she receives a call that Clover has been found. When Luna goes to get her, she is shocked to find that Clover is still 7 years old, instead of 29. Luna and Clover go back to Lon Haven to try to find answers. Scattered throughout is the story taken from the grimoire that explains about the 12 women that burned at the stake. I will say that they is 1 detail in the beginning of the book, slightly describing the torture of one of the witches and then again towards the end there is a scene that made me squirm in pain to read. That being said, I found this to be a very good story that I was eager to finish to find out the mystery of where Clover has been for 20+ years and how she is still 7 years old.

54marykuhl
Set 30, 2021, 9:21 pm

One Happy Family by Ariaanne Richmonde
standalone
New York City
netgalley
September #8

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
One Happy Family is the story of Sara and Bradley, who meet in Central Park and have a whirlwind romance. This is told from 2 two timelines "now" and the events that lead up to "now". Sara's twin sister is "missing" and she is being questioned by the police. Two different people close to Sara have warned her that Bradley may not be who he says he is, and the doubts start to take hold. Both Sara and Bradley have secrets that are are not willing to share with each other, but when Bradley proposes, all the second-guessing comes to the surface and Sara just isn't ready to commit.
I feel like there was a a lot of description in this story, from Central Park, to living in multiple African countries. I found this to be a little too boring. This had a very slow start and didn't start to take shape (for me) until half way through. The last half I couldn't put down. It wasn't a "page-turner" mystery/thriller type but it was worth it to see how everything came together. Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Arianne Richmonde.

55marykuhl
Out 10, 2021, 8:20 am

These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant
standalone
netgalley
October #1

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cooper takes his daughter and lives in a cabin in the woods for years. They live off the land, and have contact only with a neighbor Cooper doesn't trust and Jake his army friend that brings supplies once a year. A stranger enters their woods that could harm their safety.
This book for me was not categorized correctly. It is marked as a mystery/thriller but nothing major happens until about 80% through and even then I wasn't on the edge of my seat. This is more a novel about the love between a father and daughter and him doing anything to keep her safe. It was very slow for me because I kept waiting for something to happen. If you are looking for a thriller, I wouldn't recommend; however, if you want a good story about a father daughter relationship then check it out.
Because I feel this is the wrong category advertised I am only giving a 3 star review.
Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Minotaur Books.

56marykuhl
Out 18, 2021, 8:35 pm

The Killer in the Snow by Alex Pine
#2 DI Walker
netgalley
Kirkby Abbey
October #2

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When the gruesome deaths of Robert and Mary Bateman and their 24-year old daughter, Charlotte are discovered at Oaktree Farm the scene is eerily similar to a murder suicide of the previous owners of the same farm. DI Walker and his team start to gather clues and multiple suspects come to light. The investigation leads to them searching for the answers to the first crime committed 24 years ago. To top that off, his former nemesis Sullivan has escaped the Met's radar. I really enjoy this series. So far both books have taken place over the Christmas holidays. This is an easy read.

Thank you NetGalley, Alex Pine and Avon Books UK

57marykuhl
Editado: Out 22, 2021, 9:05 pm

Lightning Down by Tom Clavin
standalone
netgalley
Nazi Germany
October #3

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the story of pilot Joe Moser, who during World War II was shot down over German occupied France. He was captured by the Germans, and thinking he was heading to a POW camp in accord with the Geneva convention, he was sent to Buchenwald.
Joe Moser's dream was to fly planes. Then Pearl harbor was attacked, and he was drafted. After years of training, he finally went off to Europe at the end of January, 1944. Once there, the pilots had to go through more training. Finally he was able to fly. On that fateful day, his 44th mission, he was tasked to bomb "anything that moves" - trains, tanks, cargo.
I have read a few books about the Jewish prisoners in the concentration camps, but I have never read about the Allied soldiers that were contained there. This book has some graphic sections explaining some of the tortures, the meals and the overall life in camps. Some of these sections are fast little snippets. This isn't just the story about Joe. There are in depth descriptions of other Allied soldiers that were at Buchenwald and how they were captured. This tends to break up the timeline a bit as it goes back to narrate when an individual was born and how they became part of the Allies or French Resistance fighters. This book was very well researched to bring to the readers all the events from August 1944 to April 1945.
Thank you NetGalley, St. Martin's Press and Tom Clavin.

58marykuhl
Editado: Out 24, 2021, 10:47 am

We Live Next Door by Laura Wolfe
standalone
netgalley
Glenn Hills, MI
October #4

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Barbara Draper's body is found in the bathtub and the police rule it an accident. Her 38-year-old son, who lives with her and is an addict, swears he heard someone in the house that night, and he thinks it's not an accident. But the police won't believe him. Jessica, the Draper's neighbor starts to do her own investigating and starts to suspect all of the other neighbors in the neighborhood. Catching her husband and her best friend in lies. I enjoyed this story. The suspicions, the lies, and the hiding of the truth. Thank you netgalley, Bookouture and Laura Wolfe.

59marykuhl
Out 29, 2021, 5:42 pm

Plain Dead by Andy Maslen
#3 DI Ford
netgalley
UK
October #5

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Private Rachel Padley with the black watch is found with her throat slashed and a knife gripped in her hand. Everyone says it is an obvious suicide, but DI Ford thinks otherwise.
This partially takes place at Imber, a military training facility. Rachel's father is also in the Black Watch. Her mother is a devout religious woman who recites Bible verses. Her mother's Pastor is haughty and the Colonel is sexist. Ford is getting push back from the ACC to close the case and he refuses to send and innocent person to prison. With the troop being deployed to Somalia, he is losing time and hits roadblocks from the military. This is a fast paced detective novel.
Thank you NetGalley, Amazing Publishing UK, Thomas and Mercer and Andy Maslen

60marykuhl
Nov 1, 2021, 4:34 pm

The Girl in the Ground by Stacy Green
#4 SA Nikki Hunt
netgalley
Minnesota
November #1

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
After 3 months on leave, Nikki is ready to head back to the FBI. While working on a job site at a new development, Rory, Nikki's boyfriend, digs up skeletal remains. A hotshot friend from the academy requests Nikki's help profiling a suspected member of a trafficking ring and her boss calls her to help find a friend's surrogate who has gone missing and her baby is due within 10 days. Within a matter of days, these crimes are all connected.
Nikki once again works with Sheriff Miller and her partner Liam. Her forensic tech and best friend Courtney plays a very small part. I enjoy this series and look forward to #5!
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Stacy Green.

61marykuhl
Editado: Nov 5, 2021, 6:34 am

Count To Three by T.R. Ragan
standalone
netgalley
California
November #2

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dani Callahan's 5 year old daughter, Tinsley, is abducted from school on her first day of kindergarten. She becomes a private investigator, and 5 years later, with no leads she searches for others missing loved ones. Dani's assistant Quinn Sullivan is obsessed with missing persons cases. Her mother disappeared when she was a teenager. 17 year old Ali Cross has been missing over a week. The police have convinced her mother that she ran away. Enter 12 year old Ethan, the only witness to the abduction, who asks Dani and Quinn to search for Ali. This story is filled with torture and murder. I wasn't sure really what to think about the abductor. He seemed smart, but lacked social skills. There were a few stories going on and it kept me interested. Quick read. Thank you NetGalley, T.R. Ragan and Thomas and Mercer.

62marykuhl
Editado: Nov 12, 2021, 9:55 pm

The Drowning Girls by Lisa Regan - 4 stars
#13 Detective Josie Quinn
netgalley
Denton, Pennsylvania
November #3

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Mettner shows up at Josie's house one night before Christmas asking for help. Amber, the Denton PD's press liasion and Mett's girlfriend, is missing. A body is found in the dam and everyone realizes they don't know anything about Amber. The team races to find her and hopes that she is still alive, as her family members comes under suspicion. Large bodies of water scares me. Drowning is one of my fears, especially in frozen water. This book really got my heart racing! Another outstanding Josie Quinn. Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Lisa Regan.

63marykuhl
Editado: Nov 12, 2021, 9:55 pm

Four Perfect Pebbles by Lila Perl - 5 stars
standalone
paperback
Germany, Holland, USA
November #4

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to see a guest speaker at my daughter's college over zoom. Marion Blumenthal Lazan. She is a Holocaust survivor and wrote this book, Four Perfect Pebbles. She was 9 years old when she was taken to Bergen-Belsen with her mother, father and older brother. Four Perfect Pebbles was a game she made up while at the camp. She thought that if she could find these four pebbles, then all four of them would make it out. This book is told by Marion and her mother Ruth. It follows her through the war and after. Marion is such a strong woman. She is beautiful both inside and out. Her message is of love and peace. She speaks at many schools and tells the students that they are the last generation to hear these stories first hand. I am so thankful that I got to see and listen to her. This book is an easier read than most Holocaust survivor stories.

64marykuhl
Editado: Nov 16, 2021, 4:43 pm

The Hunting Wives by May Cobb - 3 stars
standalone
Book of the Month
Mapleton, Texas
November #5

Sophie moves to Mapleton, Texas with her husband Graham and her three-year old son, Jack. She becomes obsessed with a socialite, Margot. A chance meeting with her and her friends leads to an invitation into the secret group known as The Hunting Wives. Then a teenage girl is found murdered on Margot's land and the investigation seems to point in the wrong direction. All of these women are married and wealthy. They spend too much time drinking and living a "single" life. Some of the women go a step too far. I didn't care for their lifestyle - partying, hooking up and lying to everyone. But clearly, you can never really know who your friends are or who to trust. Without the murder investigation, I would have thought this was just an okay book. But the "whodunit" and "why" was worth it.

65marykuhl
Nov 16, 2021, 4:59 pm

Survive the Night by Riley Sager - 4 stars
standalone
amazon
Hwy 80 (New Jersey/Pennsylvania
November #6

Unfortunately, this book took me too long to actually read, but when I buckled down and restarted it, it only took me 2 days. This is a great story in which Charlie's roommate, Mady, is tragically killed by a serial killer and therefore, Charlie is ready to leave college and go home to Ohio. She meets Josh, who is looking to meet someone to split the gas money and Josh agrees to take Charlie. However, throughout the course of the night, Charlie has doubts about Josh and believes he is the man who killed Mady. Charlie will stop at nothing to get away from Josh. This is a fast paced read, that I highly recommend.

66marykuhl
Nov 18, 2021, 7:44 am

This is How I Lied by Heather Gudenkauf - 4 stars
standalone
bookstagram gift
Grotto, Iowa
November #7

15 year old Maggie's best friend Eve, was found beaten and strangled to death in a cave. 25 years later new evidence is found and Maggie, now a detective and 32 weeks pregnant, starts investigating this cold case. Her father was the chief of police and now has dementia, so Maggie can't get anything out of him. Eve's little sister Nola, the "weirdo", knows more about what was happening that day then anyone else, but has kept silent all this time. Each chapter is divided up as Maggie, Nola or Eve. This will tell Eve's story for the 24 hours preceding her death. You'll think you know who her killer is and that thought might change a few times. Mine certainly did. I started this book MONTHS ago, read maybe 30 pages and set it aside. How could I have? I FINALLY picked it back up a couple days ago and finished it. I recommend.

67marykuhl
Nov 19, 2021, 5:17 pm

Reckless Girls by Rachel Hawkins - 4 stars
standalone
netgalley
Meroe Island
November #8

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I am not going to lie, I am a sucker a book with a group of friend stranded somewhere. A cabin in a snowstorm, a remote island, paradise. This is the story of 2 friends, Brittany and Amma that hire Nico to sail them to a remote island. Nico brings his girlfriend Lux along for 2 weeks of being away from it all. Once they dock they discover that Jake and Eliza are already there. They all become friends feasting and partying, until a stranger shows up and everything gets weird. It's said that the island is haunted or has bad vibes, makes people crazy. But the crazy is more than the island.

I have to admit the thought of traveling the world, by boat is terrifying to me but I enjoyed getting lost in the story. I recommend this book. Thank you NetGalley, Rachel Hawkins and St. Martin's Press.

68marykuhl
Nov 28, 2021, 2:54 pm

The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf - 4 stars
standalone
netgalley
Burden, Iowa
November #9

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book has dual timelines 2000 and NOW. In 2000, 13-year-old Becky was spending the night at her best friend Josie's house, when Josie's family was brutally murdered. Josie escaped but Becky disappeared. Now true crime author Wylie Lark comes to the scene of the crime to finish writing the story, but a snow storm cuts off all communication to the outside world. Wylie stumbles upon a child in the snow and goes in search of the child's relatives, thinking there was an accident. There are quite a few characters in this story in the beginning that made me wonder what was going on; however, it all comes together nicely. Thank you NetGalley, Harlequin Books, Park Row Books and Heather Gudenkauf.

69marykuhl
Editado: Dez 2, 2021, 5:18 pm

A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham - 4 stars
standalone
netgalley
Baton Rouge, LA
December #1

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Chloe's dad is arrested for the murders of teenage girls when she is 12-years old. 20 years later, she is an engaged psychologist, and trying to forget the past. But another 15-year-old girl disappears and everything she has tried to escape comes back to haunt her. Everyone that Chloe thought she could trust is suddenly on the fringe of her suspicions. Chloe decides to "investigate" without the help of the police. There were times I felt that Chloe was alone with the killer and then I thought she was perfectly safe, and boy was I wrong. This was a great debut thriller and I look forward to reading more.

Release date January 11, 2022

70marykuhl
Dez 9, 2021, 8:47 pm

Such A Pretty Smile by Kristi DeMeester - 3 stars
standalone
netgalley
New Orleans/Georgia
December #2

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There are some mental health issues that could be a trigger to some readers.
It's 1997 and Lila, a 13-year-old girl is growing up with a single mother. She has the stereotypical teenage concerns - not pretty enough, not talented enough, not smart enough. Then we rewind to 2004 and follow her mother, Caroline. Caroline, engaged to Daniel, is a talented artist. In both years, 12–13-year-old girls are disappearing, and their bodies are discovered torn apart.
This book wasn't for me. I didn't care for the language the girls used, Lila's obsession with her best friend, Macie or Macie's attitude. Then one night, Lila sees Macie and a junior out in the woods and she becomes "overtaken" by a monster. Caroline and Lila have hallucinations, and although Caroline reaches out for help, she doesn't seem to get it. The ending had potential, but I felt it fell short. I tried to like it, but I really felt it was too descriptive and too long.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press

71marykuhl
Dez 26, 2021, 2:47 pm

Find the Girl by Helen Phifer - 4 stars
#5 Morgan Brookes
netgalley
UK
December #4

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 1997 a single woman goes to a campsite and sets up on the border of the fenced off forest, she is taken into the woods and tied to a tree. Present day, Morgan is called to the campsite where a camper has gone missing, near the edge of the woods, her tent torn from the back and drops of blood inside.
This is the 5th in the Morgan Brookes series, and I LOVED it. This is one of my favorite series and as soon as I finish reading it, I can't wait for the next one to be released. I spent probably the last half wondering and hoping that Morgan wasn't going to get herself in trouble the way she always seems too. Of course, trouble finds her no matter how careful she is or who she is surrounded by. There were some intense moments. The relationship between Morgan and Ben although obvious to EVERYONE around them just doesn't seem to make itself known to them, yet.
Also, I would like to say that Declan is probably my favorite person in all the detective series I have read. He is so caring and compassionate to the victims. I absolutely love him.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Helen Phifer.

72marykuhl
Dez 26, 2021, 2:54 pm

The Dying Game (Detective Mackenkie Price) by Ruhi Choudhary - 4 stars
#4 Mackenzie Price
netgalley
Lakemore, Washington
December #3

A digital copy of this book was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The prologue had me saying "No, No, No, No, No!".
Nick and Mackenzie are called to the scene of an abduction and now they have to search for her before it's too late. Between abductions and murders Nick and Mack along with Justin, Jenna and the rest of the Lakemore PD investigate some of the wealthiest in town. Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Ruhi Choudhary
The Dying Game is due to be released on 1/17/2022