https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/posts/default

1<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.blogger.com/styles/atom.css" type="text/css"?><feed xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/' xmlns:blogger='http://schemas.google.com/blogger/2008' xmlns:georss='http://www.georss.org/georss' xmlns:gd="http://schemas.google.com/g/2005" xmlns:thr='http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0'><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941</id><updated>2026-09-26T08:10:33.238-06:00</updated><category term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><category term="ARC"/><category term="Fiction"/><category term="Romance"/><category term="Featured"/><category term="MostAnticipated"/><category term="BookTour"/><category term="Fantasy"/><category term="2021Favorites"/><category term="ContemporaryRomance"/><category term="WrapUps"/><category term="YA"/><category term="2022Favorites"/><category term="BuddyRead"/><category term="NewReleases"/><category term="2023Favorites"/><category term="BeachRead"/><category term="CozyMystery"/><category term="2026Favorites"/><category term="Giveaways"/><category term="2020Favorites"/><category term="2025Favorites"/><category term="BlackAuthors"/><category term="HistoricalFiction"/><category term="Horror"/><category term="BookSwap"/><category term="BookoftheMonth"/><category term="Classic"/><category term="RomanticSuspense"/><category term="TBR"/><category term="2018Favorites"/><category term="2019Favorites"/><category term="BookLists"/><category term="HistoricalRomance"/><category term="Lists"/><category term="MagicalRealism"/><category term="SciFi"/><category term="Series"/><category term="audiobook"/><category term="christmas"/><title type='text'>Book Obsessed Introverts</title><subtitle type='html'></subtitle><link rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/posts/default'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/'/><link rel='hub' href='http://pubsubhubbub.appspot.com/'/><link rel='next' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default?start-index=26&amp;max-results=25'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><generator version='7.00' uri='http://www.blogger.com'>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>539</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-5171178021820700815</id><published>2026-08-19T08:00:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-08-19T08:00:00.123-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="NewReleases"/><title type='text'>Heart of Glass by Jennifer Hillier | Review</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3F_3fh7HJ3CZcmMwdw_4Td0W4bn4UgKYHIUo4vEA1vyK0pxuaAym6E7uXsBhOwml6NlAHpOkbsUiccilv9j4m4DOptrbo3XdaPWkegASKOocy3RvXBbm847Gp9qMpl4QIDipVq3relhzWaGBIGdjSFdVfHdHS5CHmfWezeP_uGU6wZ49RLyuPnzuKLwI/s1920/HEART%20OF%20GLASS%20-%20HILLIER,%20JENNIFER.png
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11&lt;title&gt;Book Review — Heart of Glass by Jennifer Hillier&lt;/title&gt;
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731<div class="page-wrap">
732
733  <!-- ══ BLOG LABEL ══════════════════════════════════════ -->
734  <div class="section-heading fade-1">
735    <span>Book Review</span>
736  </div>
737
738  <!-- ══ HERO CARD ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
739  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
740    <div class="cover-side">
741      <div class="cover-wrap">
742        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1758739135i/240046627.jpg" alt="Heart of Glass by Jennifer Hillier">
743      </div>
744      <div class="stars">
745        <svg class="star"

745 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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750      </div>
751      <p class="rating-text">4.08 on Goodreads<br>980 ratings</p>
752      <div class="series-badge">Wonderland<br>Book 2</div>
753    </div>
754
755    <div class="content-side">
756      <p class="book-meta">Jennifer Hillier • Minotaur Books • August 25, 2026</p>
757      <h1 class="book-title">Heart of <em>Glass</em></h1>
758      <p class="book-author">by Jennifer Hillier</p>
759      <div class="divider"></div>
760      <p class="synopsis-short">
761        Twenty-five years after a serial killer known as the Carnival Killer was convicted of murdering five girls in Seaside, Washington, he recants one of the confessions. As a new body washes ashore right before the town's amusement park reopens, the two women who once called his final victim their best friend are forced to face what they've spent decades trying to bury.
762      </p>
763      <div class="tags">
764        <span class="tag">Thriller</span>
765        <span class="tag">Mystery</span>
766        <span class="tag">Dual Timeline</span>
767        <span class="tag">Small Town Secrets</span>
768        <span class="tag">Reality TV Drama</span>
769      </div>
770      <div class="info-row">
771        <div class="info-item">
772          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
773          <span class="info-value">368</span>
774        </div>
775        <div class="info-item">
776          <span class="info-label">Pub Date</span>
777          <span class="info-value">Aug 25, 2026</span>
778        </div>
779        <div class="info-item">
780          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
781          <span class="info-value">Minotaur</span>
782        </div>
783      </div>
784    </div>
785  </div>
786
787  <!-- ══ FULL SYNOPSIS ════════════════════════════════════ -->
788  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Story</span></div>
789  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
790    <p>Twenty-five years ago, a charming drifter named Sam met three inseparable teenage girls at Wonderland, the local amusement park in Seaside, Washington. Days later, one of them, Lorelei, was found dead. Sam was later revealed to be the Carnival Killer, convicted of murdering five young women, Lorelei among them.</p>
791    <p>Lorelei's two best friends went on to build very different lives. Nicolette left Seaside to chase fame and now stars in a hit reality show. Barb stayed behind and became a local reporter, keeping close tabs on the friend she left behind. Both believed the past was settled.</p>
792    <p>Then, dying of cancer and speaking to a documentary crew, Sam recants his confession to Lorelei's murder. On the eve of Wonderland's grand reopening, another body washes ashore, and the secrets Barb and Nicolette have spent twenty-five years burying start clawing their way back to the surface.</p>
793    <p>Told across past and present timelines, and pulled together through interview transcripts, small-town gossip, and reality TV drama, the book asks who really killed Lorelei, and how far two old friends will go to keep the truth buried.</p>
794  </div>
795
796  <!-- ══ PULL QUOTE ════════════════════════════════════════ -->
797  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
798    <p>I know what I'm serving, pretty lady. But you said you wanted the truth. I killed four women, not five. That's the truth.</p>
799    <cite>— Heart of Glass</cite>
800  </div>
801
802  <!-- ══ DETAILS GRID ═════════════════════════════════════ -->
803  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
804  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
805    <div class="detail-block">
806      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
807      <ul>
808        <li>A dual timeline that slowly closes the gap between past and present</li>
809        <li>A large, tangled cast of small-town suspects</li>
810        <li>A serial killer's recanted confession driving the mystery</li>
811        <li>A juicy reality TV and true crime backdrop</li>
812        <li>A friendship strained by decades of buried secrets</li>
813      </ul>
814    </div>
815    <div class="detail-block">
816      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
817      <div>
818        <span class="cw-tag">Murder</span>
819        <span class="cw-tag">Sexual assault (referenced)</span>
820        <span class="cw-tag">Violence</span>
821        <span class="cw-tag">Substance abuse</span>
822        <span class="cw-tag">Terminal illness</span>
823        <span class="cw-tag">Physical & emotional trauma</span>
824      </div>
825    </div>
826    <div class="detail-block">
827      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
828      <p>Yes. Heart of Glass is connected to Hillier's 2015 novel Wonderland and shares its setting, but the story fully stands on its own, no prior reading required.</p>
829    </div>
830    <div class="detail-block">
831      <h3>Pacing</h3>
832      <p>A slower, character-heavy start with a lot of names and storylines to track, followed by a much faster, twistier back half. Worth pushing through the setup.</p>
833    </div>
834  </div>
835
836  <!-- ══ TROPE METER ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
837  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
838  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
839    <div class="trope-row">
840      <span class="trope-name">Dual Timeline</span>
841      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:92%"></div></div>
842      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
843    </div>
844    <div class="trope-row">
845      <span class="trope-name">Twisty Mystery</span>
846      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:88%"></div></div>
847      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
848    </div>
849    <div class="trope-row">
850      <span class="trope-name">Ensemble Cast</span>
851      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:85%"></div></div>
852      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
853    </div>
854    <div class="trope-row">
855      <span class="trope-name">Small-Town Secrets</span>
856      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:90%"></div></div>
857      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
858    </div>
859    <div class="trope-row">
860      <span class="trope-name">True Crime / Reality TV</span>
861      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:78%"></div></div>
862      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
863    </div>
864    <div class="trope-row">
865      <span class="trope-name">Romance</span>
866      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:10%"></div></div>
867      <span class="trope-level">Minimal</span>
868    </div>
869  </div>
870
871  <!-- ══ FEATURED REVIEW ══════════════════════════════════ -->
872  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Our Review</span></div>
873  <div class="featured-review fade-5">
874    <div class="featured-review-header">
875      <div class="featured-reviewer">
876        <span class="featured-reviewer-name">Book Obsessed Introverts</span>
877        <span class="featured-reviewer-meta">ARC Review • NetGalley</span>
878      </div>
879      <div class="featured-review-stars">
880        <svg class="rs"

880 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
881        <svg class="rs" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
882        <svg class="rs" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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885      </div>
886    </div>
887    <p>Heart of Glass was another solid Jennifer Hillier thriller. It took me a little while to get into at first because there are quite a few characters and different storylines to keep track of, but once everything started coming together, I was hooked.</p>
888    <p>I really liked the way the past and present timelines worked together and how the mystery slowly unfolded. There were plenty of secrets, suspicious characters, and twists that kept me guessing. I definitely changed my mind a few times about what I thought was really going on. The second half was especially hard to put down, and the ending had some good surprises, although I did feel like it was a little rushed and left me wanting a bit more explanation.</p>
889    <p>The characters were interesting, especially Barb and Cole, and I liked seeing how the events from the past continued to affect them years later. The whole small-town setting mixed with true crime and reality TV drama also made this a really fun and bingeable read.</p>
890    <p>One thing I really appreciated is that I haven't read Wonderland, and I was a little worried I'd be lost since this is connected to it. Thankfully, I understood the whole story without having read it first. There are references to Wonderland, but this works perfectly well as a standalone. I might actually go back and read Wonderland now!</p>
891    <p>If you like Jennifer Hillier, Lisa Jewell, or Ruth Ware, especially twisty psychological thrillers with secrets and multiple timelines, I'd definitely recommend this one.</p>
892    <p>Overall, a really entertaining thriller and an easy 4 stars for me!</p>
893    <p class="arc-note">Thank you to St. Martin's Press for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.</p>
894  </div>
895
896  <!-- ══ WHO SHOULD READ ══════════════════════════════════ -->
897  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
898  <div class="who-section fade-5">
899    <div class="who-grid">
900      <div class="who-card">
901        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
902        <span class="who-text">Jennifer Hillier fans, this delivers her signature dread-building and morally gray characters.</span>
903      </div>
904      <div class="who-card">
905        <span class="who-icon">✨</span>
906        <span class="who-text">Readers who haven't read Wonderland, this stands entirely on its own with no prior reading required.</span>
907      </div>
908      <div class="who-card">
909        <span class="who-icon">🕰️</span>
910        <span class="who-text">Anyone who loves a dual-timeline mystery where the past and present slowly converge.</span>
911      </div>
912      <div class="who-card">
913        <span class="who-icon">📺</span>
914        <span class="who-text">True crime and reality TV fans, Barb's gossip-site job and Nicolette's show pull both worlds into the plot.</span>
915      </div>
916      <div class="who-card">
917        <span class="who-icon">🔍</span>
918        <span class="who-text">Lisa Jewell and Ruth Ware readers looking for another twisty, secrets-heavy small-town thriller.</span>
919      </div>
920      <div class="who-card">
921        <span class="who-icon">🎧</span>
922        <span class="who-text">Audiobook listeners, this one has a full multi-narrator cast that reviewers consistently rave about.</span>
923      </div>
924    </div>
925  </div>
926
927  <!-- ══ SIMILAR READS ════════════════════════════════════ -->
928  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
929  <div class="similar-section fade-6">
930    <div class="similar-list">
931      <div class="similar-item">
932        <span class="similar-title">Wonderland</span>
933        <span class="similar-author">Jennifer Hillier</span>
934        <span class="similar-reason">The first book set in Seaside, where the Carnival Killer's story begins.</span>
935      </div>
936      <div class="similar-item">
937        <span class="similar-title">Then She Was Gone</span>
938        <span class="similar-author">Lisa Jewell</span>
939        <span class="similar-reason">A missing-girl mystery told across timelines with secrets that reshape everything.</span>
940      </div>
941      <div class="similar-item">
942        <span class="similar-title">One by One</span>
943        <span class="similar-author">Ruth Ware</span>
944        <span class="similar-reason">A tense ensemble mystery where nearly everyone has something to hide.</span>
945      </div>
946    </div>
947  </div>
948
949  <!-- ══ STANDALONE CALLOUT ═══════════════════════════════ -->
950  <div class="standalone-banner fade-6">
951    <div class="standalone-badge">2</div>
952    <div class="standalone-text">
953      <h3>New to Jennifer Hillier? You Can Start Here</h3>
954      <p>Heart of Glass is billed as Wonderland #2, but reviewers consistently describe it as a standalone sequel. You don't need to read Wonderland first, though fans of the original say catching the callbacks is a fun bonus.</p>
955    </div>
956  </div>
957
958  <!-- ══ CTA BANNER ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
959  <div class="cta-banner fade-6">
960    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
961    <h2 class="cta-headline">Craving Your <em>Next Great Read</em>?</h2>
962    <p class="cta-body">
963      Don't stop here! We have a whole library of spoiler-free thriller spotlights, hidden gem recommendations, and seasonal reading guides curated specifically for introverted bookworms. Head back to the blog feed to find your next favorite book.
964    </p>
965    <div class="cta-buttons">
966      <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com" target="_blank"><span>Explore Our Blog</span></a>
967      <a class="btn btn-secondary" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/240046627-heart-of-glass" target="_blank"><span>Add on Goodreads</span></a>
968    </div>
969  </div>
970
971  <!-- ══ FOOTER STRIPE ════════════════════════════════════ -->
972  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
973    <p>Review by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
974    <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/search/label/Mystery&Thriller" target="_blank">Browse more Mystery & Thriller reviews →</a>
975  </div>
976  
977  </div>
978<div style="max-width: 860px; margin: 20px auto 0; font-family: 'Readex Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #555; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; padding: 0 32px;">

979  Thank you to St. Matin’s Press for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.
980
981
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983</body>
984&lt;/html&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/5171178021820700815/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/08/heart-of-glass-by-jennifer-hillier.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/5171178021820700815'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/5171178021820700815'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/08/heart-of-glass-by-jennifer-hillier.html' title='Heart of Glass by Jennifer Hillier | Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3F_3fh7HJ3CZcmMwdw_4Td0W4bn4UgKYHIUo4vEA1vyK0pxuaAym6E7uXsBhOwml6NlAHpOkbsUiccilv9j4m4DOptrbo3XdaPWkegASKOocy3RvXBbm847Gp9qMpl4QIDipVq3relhzWaGBIGdjSFdVfHdHS5CHmfWezeP_uGU6wZ49RLyuPnzuKLwI/s1600/HEART%20OF%20GLASS%20-%20HILLIER,%20JENNIFER.png&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-1124880029449979955</id><published>2026-08-11T08:00:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-08-18T12:35:20.716-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="2026Favorites"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="NewReleases"/><title type='text'>The One Who Walked Away by Karen Rose | Review</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxdrAAzLUWUgrvVdKO9A5LWBSr0PYOgG968jkJHIuYNGLp6J0Xi35Pram6w0uyyT7hXLdiBA1JkTa3WrJCBZXPApg3FgeZQ3EnN45-ohwEC5WgYUv29wO3WKHlulpKwK44oEu63BgzOmTqDcFgg0Z-rYzHwUaK1muzVYuEDrdDYGLyxrfeSNsQ2xjwog/s1600/THE%20ONE%20THAT%20WALKED%20AWAY%20-%20ROSE,%20KAREN.jpg
985&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;628&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1200&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxdrAAzLUWUgrvVdKO9A5LWBSr0PYOgG968jkJHIuYNGLp6J0Xi35Pram6w0uyyT7hXLdiBA1JkTa3WrJCBZXPApg3FgeZQ3EnN45-ohwEC5WgYUv29wO3WKHlulpKwK44oEu63BgzOmTqDcFgg0Z-rYzHwUaK1muzVYuEDrdDYGLyxrfeSNsQ2xjwog/s1600/THE%20ONE%20THAT%20WALKED%20AWAY%20-%20ROSE,%20KAREN.jpg
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993&lt;title&gt;Book Review — The One Who Walked Away by Karen Rose&lt;/title&gt;
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1711</head>
1712<body>
1713<div class="page-wrap">
1714
1715  <!-- ══ BLOG LABEL ══════════════════════════════════════ -->
1716  <div class="section-heading fade-1">
1717    <span>Book Review</span>
1718  </div>
1719
1720  <!-- ══ HERO CARD ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
1721  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
1722    <div class="cover-side">
1723      <div class="cover-wrap">
1724        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1769745590i/243848993.jpg" alt="The One Who Walked Away by Karen Rose">
1725      </div>
1726      <div class="stars">
1727        <svg class="star"

1727 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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1732      </div>
1733      <p class="rating-text">4.23 on Goodreads<br>104 ratings</p>
1734      <div class="series-badge">Romantic Suspense • Book 34<br>A New Mendocino Series</div>
1735    </div>
1736
1737    <div class="content-side">
1738      <p class="book-meta">Karen Rose • Berkley Publishing • August 11, 2026</p>
1739      <h1 class="book-title">The One Who <em>Walked Away</em></h1>
1740      <p class="book-author">by Karen Rose</p>
1741      <div class="divider"></div>
1742      <p class="synopsis-short">
1743        Bounty hunter Elle Randolph is still outrunning the guilt of a crash she survived and her husband didn't. Her latest fugitive case drags her into Mendocino County, California, where a murder makes her a suspect instead of the hunter, and she's forced to work alongside the one detective who isn't sure whether to arrest her or protect her.
1744      </p>
1745      <div class="tags">
1746        <span class="tag">Romantic Suspense</span>
1747        <span class="tag">Mystery</span>
1748        <span class="tag">Police Procedural</span>
1749        <span class="tag">Slow Burn Romance</span>
1750        <span class="tag">Standalone</span>
1751      </div>
1752      <div class="info-row">
1753        <div class="info-item">
1754          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
1755          <span class="info-value">528</span>
1756        </div>
1757        <div class="info-item">
1758          <span class="info-label">Pub Date</span>
1759          <span class="info-value">Aug 11, 2026</span>
1760        </div>
1761        <div class="info-item">
1762          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
1763          <span class="info-value">Berkley</span>
1764        </div>
1765      </div>
1766    </div>
1767  </div>
1768
1769  <!-- ══ FULL SYNOPSIS ════════════════════════════════════ -->
1770  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Story</span></div>
1771  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
1772    <p>Three years ago, Elle Randolph walked away from a car crash that killed her husband and two other people. Cleared of any wrongdoing but never quite cleared in her own mind, she left her career as a lawyer behind and remade herself as a bounty hunter, chasing every case she can find so she never has to sit still with what happened.</p>
1773    <p>Her latest job brings her and her boss into the quiet reaches of Mendocino County, California, tracking a fugitive through wilderness that feels as isolated as Elle herself. But the job goes sideways fast: a local innkeeper turns up dead, and Elle and her partner were among the last people to see her alive. Suddenly the hunter is the one being hunted.</p>
1774    <p>Detective Ronan Clarke has spent fifteen years as a single dad keeping his daughter and his small coastal community safe, and he doesn't love the idea of a bounty hunter bringing trouble into his jurisdiction. But the more he digs into Elle's secrets, the less certain he is that she's guilty of anything, and the more certain he is that he's drawn to her.</p>
1775    <p>As more bodies surface and it becomes clear someone may be deliberately framing her, Elle and Ronan have to decide how much they're willing to trust each other, and how much of Elle's past she's finally ready to stop outrunning.</p>
1776  </div>
1777
1778  <!-- ══ PULL QUOTE ════════════════════════════════════════ -->
1779  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
1780    <p>How did I let this go so far? How did I let myself become this meek person?</p>
1781    <cite>— The One Who Walked Away</cite>
1782  </div>
1783
1784  <!-- ══ DETAILS GRID ═════════════════════════════════════ -->
1785  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
1786  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
1787    <div class="detail-block">
1788      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
1789      <ul>
1790        <li>A twisty small-town murder investigation</li>
1791        <li>A slow-burn romance between a bounty hunter and a detective</li>
1792        <li>A heroine working through survivor's guilt</li>
1793        <li>A devoted single dad who's easy to root for</li>
1794        <li>A tight, loyal found-family friend group</li>
1795      </ul>
1796    </div>
1797    <div class="detail-block">
1798      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
1799      <div>
1800        <span class="cw-tag">Murder</span>
1801        <span class="cw-tag">Domestic violence (referenced)</span>
1802        <span class="cw-tag">Car accident / death</span>
1803        <span class="cw-tag">Survivor's guilt</span>
1804        <span class="cw-tag">Stalking</span>
1805        <span class="cw-tag">Mild peril</span>
1806      </div>
1807    </div>
1808    <div class="detail-block">
1809      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
1810      <p>Yes, this is technically book 34 in Karen Rose's Romantic Suspense universe, but it kicks off a brand-new arc with new characters and a new setting. No prior reading required.</p>
1811    </div>
1812    <div class="detail-block">
1813      <h3>Romance Level</h3>
1814      <p>A true slow burn. Elle and Ronan's relationship builds gradually through suspicion and reluctant trust rather than 

1814instant attraction, with just enough heat to satisfy without pulling focus from the mystery.</p>
1815    </div>
1816  </div>
1817
1818  <!-- ══ TROPE METER ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
1819  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
1820  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
1821    <div class="trope-row">
1822      <span class="trope-name">Slow Burn Romance</span>
1823      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:88%"></div></div>
1824      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
1825    </div>
1826    <div class="trope-row">
1827      <span class="trope-name">Survivor's Guilt Arc</span>
1828      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:92%"></div></div>
1829      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
1830    </div>
1831    <div class="trope-row">
1832      <span class="trope-name">Forbidden Investigation</span>
1833      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:85%"></div></div>
1834      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
1835    </div>
1836    <div class="trope-row">
1837      <span class="trope-name">Single Dad</span>
1838      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:75%"></div></div>
1839      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
1840    </div>
1841    <div class="trope-row">
1842      <span class="trope-name">Twisty Mystery</span>
1843      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:80%"></div></div>
1844      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
1845    </div>
1846    <div class="trope-row">
1847      <span class="trope-name">Heat / Steam</span>
1848      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:25%"></div></div>
1849      <span class="trope-level">Low</span>
1850    </div>
1851  </div>
1852
1853  <!-- ══ FEATURED REVIEW ══════════════════════════════════ -->
1854  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Our Review</span></div>
1855  <div class="featured-review fade-5">
1856    <div class="featured-review-header">
1857      <div class="featured-reviewer">
1858        <span class="featured-reviewer-name">Book Obsessed Introverts</span>
1859        <span class="featured-reviewer-meta">ARC Review • NetGalley</span>
1860      </div>
1861      <div class="featured-review-stars">
1862        <svg class="rs" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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1867      </div>
1868    </div>
1869    <p>I absolutely loved The One Who Walked Away! Karen Rose is so good at mixing romance, suspense, and a really good mystery, and this book had me hooked from the beginning.</p>
1870    <p>I really liked Elle as a main character. She has been through a lot, and I enjoyed watching her slowly work through her past, her guilt, and everything she's been carrying with her. She felt strong without being perfect, and I liked seeing her grow throughout the story. Ronan was also a great character. He's protective, caring, and a devoted single dad, and I really enjoyed getting to see that side of him. His relationship with Elle was one of my favourite parts of the book. The romance is definitely more of a slow burn, but I thought it worked really well with the suspense and never felt like it took away from the main story.</p>
1871    <p>One thing I always love about Karen Rose's books is that her main characters usually have a strong support system, or they slowly build one around themselves. This was definitely true for Elle. I really enjoyed watching her start to build such a great support system around her, especially after everything she had been through. It felt like such an important part of her growth, and honestly, I can't wait to see what she does next!</p>
1872    <p>The mystery kept me guessing, and there were plenty of twists and turns along the way. I thought I had figured out what was happening a few times, only to realize I was completely wrong. I also liked that the book didn't just throw twists in for the sake of having them. They actually added to the story and kept things moving.</p>
1873    <p>For a book that is over 500 pages, I thought the pacing was really good. There were a few slower moments, but overall I was always interested in what was going to happen next. I definitely had the "I'll just read one more chapter" problem with this one.</p>
1874    <p>If you enjoy romantic suspense with a strong mystery, complicated characters, and a romance that builds slowly, I would definitely recommend this.</p>
1875    <p>Another great Karen Rose book and an easy 5 stars from me!</p>
1876  </div>
1877
1878  <!-- ══ WHO SHOULD READ ══════════════════════════════════ -->
1879  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
1880  <div class="who-section fade-5">
1881    <div class="who-grid">
1882      <div class="who-card">
1883        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
1884        <span class="who-text">Karen Rose fans looking for a fresh cast and setting, this launches a brand-new arc within her Romantic Suspense world.</span>
1885      </div>
1886      <div class="who-card">
1887        <span class="who-icon">✨</span>
1888        <span class="who-text">New readers curious about Karen Rose, this is one of the easiest entry points into her catalog with zero prior reading required.</span>
1889      </div>
1890      <div class="who-card">
1891        <span class="who-icon">🔍</span>
1892        <span class="who-text">Mystery lovers who want a genuinely twisty investigation with red herrings that hold up on a reread.</span>
1893      </div>
1894      <div class="who-card">
1895        <span class="who-icon">🩷</span>
1896        <span class="who-text">Romance readers who prefer a relationship that builds slowly through trust rather than instant chemistry.</span>
1897      </div>
1898      <div class="who-card">
1899        <span class="who-icon">👨‍👧</span>
1900        <span class="who-text">Anyone with a soft spot for single-dad heroes, Ronan's devotion to his daughter is a highlight.</span>
1901      </div>
1902      <div class="who-card">
1903        <span class="who-icon">🌲</span>
1904        <span class="who-text">Readers who love an atmospheric, isolated small-town setting where everyone has something to hide.</span>
1905      </div>
1906    </div>
1907  </div>
1908
1909  <!-- ══ SIMILAR READS ════════════════════════════════════ -->
1910  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
1911  <div class="similar-section fade-6">
1912    <div class="similar-list">
1913      <div class="similar-item">
1914        <span class="similar-title">Say You're Sorry</span>
1915        <span class="similar-author">Karen Rose</span>
1916        <span class="similar-reason">Another Karen Rose heroine racing to outrun a killer while confronting her own past.</span>
1917      </div>
1918      <div class="similar-item">
1919        <span class="similar-title">In Death Series</span>
1920        <span class="similar-author">J.D. Robb</span>
1921        <span class="similar-reason">Long-running romantic suspense with a tenacious female lead at the center of every case.</span>
1922      </div>
1923      <div class="similar-item">
1924        <span class="similar-title">Vanishing Girls</span>
1925        <span class="similar-author">Lisa Regan</span>
1926        <span class="similar-reason">

1926A detective with something to prove follows a single thread to catch a killer before it's too late.</span>
1927      </div>
1928    </div>
1929  </div>
1930
1931  <!-- ══ STANDALONE CALLOUT ═══════════════════════════════ -->
1932  <div class="standalone-banner fade-6">
1933    <div class="standalone-badge">34</div>
1934    <div class="standalone-text">
1935      <h3>New to Karen Rose? Start Here</h3>
1936      <p>The One Who Walked Away is technically the 34th book in Karen Rose's Romantic Suspense universe, but it introduces an all-new cast and setting, making it a genuinely fresh jumping-on point for first-time readers.</p>
1937    </div>
1938  </div>
1939
1940  <!-- ══ CTA BANNER ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
1941  <div class="cta-banner fade-6">
1942    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
1943    <h2 class="cta-headline">Craving Your <em>Next Great Read</em>?</h2>
1944    <p class="cta-body">
1945      Don't stop here! We have a whole library of spoiler-free thriller spotlights, hidden gem recommendations, and seasonal reading guides curated specifically for introverted bookworms. Head back to the blog feed to find your next favorite book.
1946    </p>
1947    <div class="cta-buttons">
1948      <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com" target="_blank"><span>Explore Our Blog</span></a>
1949      <a class="btn btn-secondary" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/243848993-the-one-who-walked-away" target="_blank"><span>Add on Goodreads</span></a>
1950    </div>
1951  </div>
1952
1953  <!-- ══ FOOTER STRIPE ════════════════════════════════════ -->
1954  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
1955    <p>Review by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
1956    <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/search/label/Mystery&Thriller" target="_blank">Browse more Mystery & Thriller reviews →</a>
1957  </div>
1958  
1959  </div>
1960
1961<div style="max-width: 860px; margin: 20px auto 0; font-family: 'Readex Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #555; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; padding: 0 32px;">
1962  Thank you to Grand Berkley Publishing Group for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.
1963
1964</div>
1965</body>
1966&lt;/html&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/1124880029449979955/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/08/the-one-who-walked-away-by-karen-rose.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1124880029449979955'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1124880029449979955'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/08/the-one-who-walked-away-by-karen-rose.html' title='The One Who Walked Away by Karen Rose | Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxdrAAzLUWUgrvVdKO9A5LWBSr0PYOgG968jkJHIuYNGLp6J0Xi35Pram6w0uyyT7hXLdiBA1JkTa3WrJCBZXPApg3FgeZQ3EnN45-ohwEC5WgYUv29wO3WKHlulpKwK44oEu63BgzOmTqDcFgg0Z-rYzHwUaK1muzVYuEDrdDYGLyxrfeSNsQ2xjwog/s1600/THE%20ONE%20THAT%20WALKED%20AWAY%20-%20ROSE,%20KAREN.jpg&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-216186497143331706</id><published>2026-07-25T13:37:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-07-25T13:37:00.113-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>Mommy Reads&#39; June Reading Wrap Up</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9IVeJwVbApayV8jvAEVPxEr7mVbJKId8rCZUhdtDdglnflUgpNBeDom4mwDqTvnq21ntJqDlrQn7ajtuisiRmNAzf7iES-OqrGtJib3zFGv7GxgcmpsZyTaiqt-vy2okSFzVcNhzu39rkZZDg-GwFigYmefJCD9oyr9RTkONDiZ5Ow170CfDgC496VI/s1350/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(5).png&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;383&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9IVeJwVbApayV8jvAEVPxEr7mVbJKId8rCZUhdtDdglnflUgpNBeDom4mwDqTvnq21ntJqDlrQn7ajtuisiRmNAzf7iES-OqrGtJib3zFGv7GxgcmpsZyTaiqt-vy2okSFzVcNhzu39rkZZDg-GwFigYmefJCD9oyr9RTkONDiZ5Ow170CfDgC496VI/w306-h383/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(5).png&quot; width=&quot;306&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;June was another slower reading month for me, but sometimes all it takes is &lt;strong data-end=&quot;124&quot; data-start=&quot;101&quot;&gt;one incredible book&lt;/strong&gt; to make a month feel like a success. Between enjoying the warmer weather and keeping busy with life, I only finished &lt;strong data-end=&quot;254&quot; data-start=&quot;242&quot;&gt;one book&lt;/strong&gt;—but thankfully, it was a &lt;strong data-end=&quot;306&quot; data-start=&quot;291&quot;&gt;5-star read&lt;/strong&gt; from one of my all-time favorite authors.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
1967&lt;p data-end=&quot;534&quot; data-start=&quot;350&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Honestly, can I even expect anything less from Corinne Michaels? She has a way of writing stories that completely pull me in from the very first chapter, and this one was no exception.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
1968&lt;p data-end=&quot;563&quot; data-start=&quot;536&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;563&quot; data-start=&quot;536&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Here&#39;s what I read in June:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;663&quot; data-start=&quot;570&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;663&quot; data-start=&quot;570&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;1. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;West of Forever&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Corinne Michaels&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
1969&lt;p data-end=&quot;1176&quot; data-start=&quot;665&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This emotional contemporary romance follows two characters whose lives become intertwined as they navigate heartbreak, healing, and the possibility of a second chance at love. With unforgettable chemistry, heartfelt family moments, and plenty of emotional depth, the story beautifully explores what it means to let go of the past while embracing the future. Like so many of Corinne Michaels&#39; novels, it delivers all the feels and leaves you thinking about the characters long after you&#39;ve turned the final page. You can read my full review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/06/west-of-forever-by-corinne-michaels-arc.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1176&quot; data-start=&quot;665&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1176&quot; data-start=&quot;665&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1176&quot; data-start=&quot;665&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/216186497143331706/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-june-reading-wrap-up.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/216186497143331706'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/216186497143331706'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-june-reading-wrap-up.html' title='Mommy Reads&#39; June Reading Wrap Up'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

1969<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-9IVeJwVbApayV8jvAEVPxEr7mVbJKId8rCZUhdtDdglnflUgpNBeDom4mwDqTvnq21ntJqDlrQn7ajtuisiRmNAzf7iES-OqrGtJib3zFGv7GxgcmpsZyTaiqt-vy2okSFzVcNhzu39rkZZDg-GwFigYmefJCD9oyr9RTkONDiZ5Ow170CfDgC496VI/s72-w306-h383-c/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(5).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-4121308598133385825</id><published>2026-07-24T13:31:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-07-24T13:31:00.113-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>Mommy Reads&#39; May Reading Wrap Up</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMzdNUPeOVgluh6bpJYTLrTA4jUvk4sojIxzDKSOnBR6Rilj9uu1DXiTxwAjY5vLb6ds032prExcqykkXN2yEVpmXpS1Ejak1YBgdWcZ8ihS2AbA2wCVo0llmRTVdFWGsy4lHn-5XxUFIVSivw_uZI5YnqrFRmSqbyKmmFilGH1_RchKq5SUZhzQzz9E/s1350/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(4).png&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;382&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMzdNUPeOVgluh6bpJYTLrTA4jUvk4sojIxzDKSOnBR6Rilj9uu1DXiTxwAjY5vLb6ds032prExcqykkXN2yEVpmXpS1Ejak1YBgdWcZ8ihS2AbA2wCVo0llmRTVdFWGsy4lHn-5XxUFIVSivw_uZI5YnqrFRmSqbyKmmFilGH1_RchKq5SUZhzQzz9E/w305-h382/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(4).png&quot; width=&quot;305&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;May was my slowest reading month of the year so far, but that&#39;s okay—sometimes life gets busy, and there&#39;s simply less time to curl up with a good book. I finished &lt;strong data-end=&quot;217&quot; data-start=&quot;200&quot;&gt;just one book&lt;/strong&gt;, making it a much quieter month compared to the previous few.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
1970&lt;p data-end=&quot;527&quot; data-start=&quot;281&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Although it wasn&#39;t a standout favorite, I still enjoyed taking the time to discover a new story and a new author. Not every book can be a five-star read, and that&#39;s part of what makes reading so much fun—every story offers a different experience.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
1971&lt;p data-end=&quot;555&quot; data-start=&quot;529&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;555&quot; data-start=&quot;529&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Here&#39;s what I read in May:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;653&quot; data-start=&quot;562&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;653&quot; data-start=&quot;562&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;1. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Their Will Undone&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;R. J. Valldeperas&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
1972&lt;p data-end=&quot;1069&quot; data-start=&quot;655&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This dark fantasy follows characters caught in a world where power, ambition, and destiny collide. As alliances shift and long-buried secrets come to light, they must navigate dangerous choices that could change everything they thought they knew. Filled with political intrigue, complex relationships, and high stakes, it&#39;s a story that will appeal to readers who enjoy darker fantasy with morally grey characters. You can read my full review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/their-will-undone-by-rj-valldeperas-arc.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1069&quot; data-start=&quot;655&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1069&quot; data-start=&quot;655&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1069&quot; data-start=&quot;655&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/4121308598133385825/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-may-reading-wrap-up.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4121308598133385825'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4121308598133385825'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-may-reading-wrap-up.html' title='Mommy Reads&#39; May Reading Wrap Up'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

1972<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiMzdNUPeOVgluh6bpJYTLrTA4jUvk4sojIxzDKSOnBR6Rilj9uu1DXiTxwAjY5vLb6ds032prExcqykkXN2yEVpmXpS1Ejak1YBgdWcZ8ihS2AbA2wCVo0llmRTVdFWGsy4lHn-5XxUFIVSivw_uZI5YnqrFRmSqbyKmmFilGH1_RchKq5SUZhzQzz9E/s72-w305-h382-c/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(4).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-4128947586333820110</id><published>2026-07-23T13:23:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-07-23T13:23:00.114-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>Mommy Reads&#39; April Reading Wrap Up</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6uErRquZxtLMbXiZFhk8993pdekzxr6fnwjfg58sbzlynnTYk05oZs955hpBkJ3b4c_8saJ6wJLcnwhWwe2ItcJAQTdCRF33hqwQP0txkVWeD0RxzLoXh6Tn-FhiVEiBMl1WGZdAZqvGdZc1Ej2KgjZZNOu8FIdJDgDHsLHmQrZ-BBpGEDROiiolSyk/s1350/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(3).png&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;389&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6uErRquZxtLMbXiZFhk8993pdekzxr6fnwjfg58sbzlynnTYk05oZs955hpBkJ3b4c_8saJ6wJLcnwhWwe2ItcJAQTdCRF33hqwQP0txkVWeD0RxzLoXh6Tn-FhiVEiBMl1WGZdAZqvGdZc1Ej2KgjZZNOu8FIdJDgDHsLHmQrZ-BBpGEDROiiolSyk/w311-h389/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(3).png&quot; width=&quot;311&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;April was definitely a slower reading month for me, but sometimes fewer books simply means spending more time really enjoying each story. I finished&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;strong&gt;two books&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;, and both ended up being strong reads—one&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;strong&gt;4-star&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;and one&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;strong&gt;5-star favorite&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;that completely stayed with me after finishing.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Even though my reading list was shorter, the quality of the books made up for it. April brought a mix of suspense, emotion, and unforgettable characters, making it a small but memorable month of reading.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Here’s a look at everything I read in April:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;1. Bloodlines by C. E. Sarrow —&amp;nbsp;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;

1972https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This dark and gripping romance pulls readers into a world filled with danger, secrets, and intense emotional stakes. As the characters become entangled in a complicated relationship shaped by trust, loyalty, and hidden truths, the tension continues to build with every chapter. It’s a captivating read for fans of romance with darker themes and high-stakes drama. You can read my full review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/bloodlines-by-c-e-sarrow-arc-review.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;2. Pieces of Me by Haley Harris —&amp;nbsp;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This emotional debut novel tells the story of healing, resilience, and finding hope after unimaginable pain. The characters feel raw and authentic as they navigate trauma, love, and the difficult process of rebuilding their lives. With heartfelt writing and deeply emotional moments, this was an unforgettable read and an incredibly impressive debut. You can read my full review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/pieces-of-me-by-haley-harris-arc-review.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Overall, April may have been a quieter reading month, but both books left a strong impression on me. Sometimes it’s not about how many books you read, but about how much they stay with you after you’ve finished.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/4128947586333820110/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-april-reading-wrap-up.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4128947586333820110'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4128947586333820110'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-april-reading-wrap-up.html' title='Mommy Reads&#39; April Reading Wrap Up'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

1972<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht6uErRquZxtLMbXiZFhk8993pdekzxr6fnwjfg58sbzlynnTYk05oZs955hpBkJ3b4c_8saJ6wJLcnwhWwe2ItcJAQTdCRF33hqwQP0txkVWeD0RxzLoXh6Tn-FhiVEiBMl1WGZdAZqvGdZc1Ej2KgjZZNOu8FIdJDgDHsLHmQrZ-BBpGEDROiiolSyk/s72-w311-h389-c/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(3).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-2988828003508233555</id><published>2026-07-22T13:48:19.533-06:00</published><updated>2026-07-22T13:48:19.534-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><title type='text'>Hallowed Bones by Lucy Smoke ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWBQ_gO2uH437Yf69Bnh4QXQx-EwVA5Amnb3VLwo218jYZ96nM34fEJlnfjuPy74pgGAja-a-6FH-OtDOhrXlJlvjxMpcTBDgc5izTDtnQmH35wWBzhGONvBEOO4N-3eIQ4aV_j4kZyWCxKiuRdiRdGpnOBw53eEdEG-yzFiXyAWYp1YPqJDyEgA5_hE/s2850/244947440.jpg&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;2850&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1875&quot; height=&quot;418&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWBQ_gO2uH437Yf69Bnh4QXQx-EwVA5Amnb3VLwo218jYZ96nM34fEJlnfjuPy74pgGAja-a-6FH-OtDOhrXlJlvjxMpcTBDgc5izTDtnQmH35wWBzhGONvBEOO4N-3eIQ4aV_j4kZyWCxKiuRdiRdGpnOBw53eEdEG-yzFiXyAWYp1YPqJDyEgA5_hE/w275-h418/244947440.jpg&quot; width=&quot;275&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;em&gt;Hallowed Bones&lt;/em&gt; had all the ingredients of a book I thought I&#39;d love. The synopsis immediately caught my attention, and I went in expecting to be completely hooked. Unfortunately, it just didn&#39;t quite work for me.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;I think a big part of it came down to timing. I wasn&#39;t really in the mood to read when I picked it up, and because of that, I struggled to fully immerse myself in the story and connect with the characters. I found myself putting it down more often than I would have liked.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;That said, I can absolutely see why so many readers enjoy this one. If you&#39;re a fan of dark romance, paranormal elements, morally grey characters, and a why-choose romance, &lt;em&gt;Hallowed Bones&lt;/em&gt; has a lot to offer. The atmosphere is dark and intriguing, and I think readers who love this subgenre will have a much better experience than I did.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;While this one wasn&#39;t the right fit for me at the time, I don&#39;t think it&#39;s a bad book—it simply wasn&#39;t the right book for my mood. If dark, supernatural why-choose romances are your thing, I&#39;d still recommend giving it a try.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: medium;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: medium;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;Rating: ⭐⭐⭐&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Thank you to &lt;a href=&quot;https://stmartinspress.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;St. Martin&#39;s Press&lt;/a&gt; for my digital ARC via &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.netgalley.com&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;NetGalley &lt;/a&gt;in exchange for a review. As always, my reviews are my own and unbiased opinions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/2988828003508233555/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/hallowed-bones-by-lucy-smoke-arc-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/2988828003508233555'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/2988828003508233555'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/hallowed-bones-by-lucy-smoke-arc-review.html' title='Hallowed Bones by Lucy Smoke ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

1972<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGWBQ_gO2uH437Yf69Bnh4QXQx-EwVA5Amnb3VLwo218jYZ96nM34fEJlnfjuPy74pgGAja-a-6FH-OtDOhrXlJlvjxMpcTBDgc5izTDtnQmH35wWBzhGONvBEOO4N-3eIQ4aV_j4kZyWCxKiuRdiRdGpnOBw53eEdEG-yzFiXyAWYp1YPqJDyEgA5_hE/s72-w275-h418-c/244947440.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-1783612254611820190</id><published>2026-07-22T13:14:12.374-06:00</published><updated>2026-07-22T13:14:12.374-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>Mommy Reads&#39; March 2026 Reading Wrap Up</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfaMwnjjwjIoZa-usMy3uACrM9C7V9J_TTqB8AhjzQ-KRsazMYO3YhMrAgGxS3AN9h3J3Dz4lLa_GmPGbMVasor8q1lykWiNozrpmUwMpZm_busb3X_fSkLkuOv7If9dGzA3dpq_VzQ9MWVyiC6DMFrvixvFQBeGhE6IqCOhZOdCCj35iCR7Yaj_WS50/s1350/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(2).png&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;418&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfaMwnjjwjIoZa-usMy3uACrM9C7V9J_TTqB8AhjzQ-KRsazMYO3YhMrAgGxS3AN9h3J3Dz4lLa_GmPGbMVasor8q1lykWiNozrpmUwMpZm_busb3X_fSkLkuOv7If9dGzA3dpq_VzQ9MWVyiC6DMFrvixvFQBeGhE6IqCOhZOdCCj35iCR7Yaj_WS50/w334-h418/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(2).png&quot; width=&quot;334&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;March turned into my biggest reading month of the year so far, and I couldn’t be happier with how many great books I was able to finish. I read&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;strong style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;six books&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;, with a mix of&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt; &lt;/span&gt;&lt;strong style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;4-star and 5-star reads&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;, which made for a really enjoyable and well-rounded reading month.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div style=&quot;background-color: white; color: #222222;&quot;&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;One of the things I loved most about March was the variety. From psychological thrillers to fantasy romance, contemporary romance, and even a nostalgic middle-grade read with my Grade 4 class, March’s books kept things interesting and gave me something different to look forward to with every new story.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Here’s a look at everything I read in March:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;1. Racing For Love by Vanessa Silva —&amp;nbsp;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;⭐&quot; aria-label=&quot;⭐&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;⭐&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;

1972https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">This romance continues to explore love, personal growth, and emotional healing through characters navigating complicated relationships and second chances. As feelings deepen and challenges arise, the story balances heartfelt moments with tension and vulnerability. It’s an emotional romance that keeps readers invested in both the characters and their journey. You can read my full review <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/vanessa-f-silvas-racing-for-redemption.html#more" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">2. The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden — <img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">This suspenseful installment in the Housemaid series brings back the tension, secrets, and twists readers have come to expect. What starts as an ordinary situation quickly becomes unsettling as hidden truths begin to unravel. With fast pacing and unexpected turns, this thriller keeps you questioning everyone until the final pages.</span></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">3. How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell — <img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="

1972https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">As part of a novel study with my Grade 4 class, this was such a fun and nostalgic read. The story follows a young Viking named Hiccup as he learns that being a hero doesn’t always mean being the strongest or bravest. Filled with humor, adventure, and lovable dragons, it’s a fantastic middle-grade story about friendship, courage, and finding your own path.</span></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">4. Hunt for the Roses by Drea Scott — <img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">This gripping romance pulls readers into an emotional story filled with tension, passion, and complex relationships. As secrets unfold and emotions intensify, the characters are forced to confront their pasts while fighting for a future they never expected. It’s the kind of book that keeps you completely invested from beginning to end. </span><span style="font-family: "Century Gothic";">You can read my full review <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/hunt-for-roses-drea-scott-arc-review.html#more" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">5. The Wings That Bind by Briar Boleyn — <img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="

1972https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">This fantasy romance delivers a rich world filled with magic, danger, and unforgettable chemistry. As the characters become tangled in fate, loyalty, and forbidden emotions, the stakes continue to rise. With immersive worldbuilding and strong romantic tension, it’s a perfect read for fans of romantasy.</span></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><strong><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">6. The Handyman by Britney King — <img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /><img alt="⭐" aria-label="⭐" class="an1" data-emoji="⭐" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2b50/72.png" style="height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;" /></span></strong></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">This psychological thriller follows a story where appearances quickly become deceptive and unsettling truths begin to emerge. As tension builds, readers are pulled deeper into a web of secrets, suspicion, and manipulation. With a dark atmosphere and plenty of twists, it’s a suspenseful read that keeps you hooked. You can read my full review <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/the-handyman-by-britney-king-arc-review.html#more" target="_blank">here</a>.</span></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></p><p style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Overall, March was a fantastic reading month, especially with six completed books and several standout favorites. I loved the mix of genres, and having both thrilling and emotional reads made my reading experience feel balanced and exciting. <span style="height: 1.2em; width: 1.2em;"><img alt="📚" aria-label="📚" class="an1" data-emoji="📚" draggable="false" loading="lazy" src="

1972https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4da/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;✨&quot; aria-label=&quot;✨&quot; class=&quot;an1&quot; data-emoji=&quot;✨&quot; draggable=&quot;false&quot; loading=&quot;lazy&quot; src=&quot;https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2728/72.png&quot; style=&quot;height: 1.2em; vertical-align: middle; width: 1.2em;&quot; /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;color: black;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;gmail_signature_prefix&quot;&gt;--&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/1783612254611820190/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-march-2026-reading-wrap-up.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1783612254611820190'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1783612254611820190'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/mommy-reads-march-2026-reading-wrap-up.html' title='Mommy Reads&#39; March 2026 Reading Wrap Up'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfaMwnjjwjIoZa-usMy3uACrM9C7V9J_TTqB8AhjzQ-KRsazMYO3YhMrAgGxS3AN9h3J3Dz4lLa_GmPGbMVasor8q1lykWiNozrpmUwMpZm_busb3X_fSkLkuOv7If9dGzA3dpq_VzQ9MWVyiC6DMFrvixvFQBeGhE6IqCOhZOdCCj35iCR7Yaj_WS50/s72-w334-h418-c/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(2).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-5476087339616513195</id><published>2026-07-13T06:13:33.252-06:00</published><updated>2026-07-13T06:13:33.253-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="2026Favorites"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ContemporaryRomance"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Featured"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Romance"/><title type='text'>This Side by Drea Scott ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZnD4wwMqQKslCUBYhNYbyJo0qOc6gSeCRaU2kbl1loLI7uj_fQT8wF8ZzzsS6sF1QSspXQ_gQZ2npA7uYI8Gbos8me-E9VtGLckaKu7kQrotHci2DzZRE4KJVGEVvA1lhBx7aCZavtay0BZVRuRWKKDp9CMAeyCX3Up840gQ7ygn-ACk1bbu7KJsWHE/s1350/Untitled%20design%20(11).png&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;391&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZnD4wwMqQKslCUBYhNYbyJo0qOc6gSeCRaU2kbl1loLI7uj_fQT8wF8ZzzsS6sF1QSspXQ_gQZ2npA7uYI8Gbos8me-E9VtGLckaKu7kQrotHci2DzZRE4KJVGEVvA

19721lhBx7aCZavtay0BZVRuRWKKDp9CMAeyCX3Up840gQ7ygn-ACk1bbu7KJsWHE/w313-h391/Untitled%20design%20(11).png" width="313" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="isSelectedEnd"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">My review is a few days late because I was away on vacation with limited internet access, but this book was absolutely worth the wait.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p class="isSelectedEnd"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to read and review <em><a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/hunt-for-roses-drea-scott-arc-review.html#more" target="_blank">Hunt for the Roses</a></em> by Drea Scott, and it quickly became one of my favorite reads of the year (and honestly, it still is). So when I had the chance to request <em>This Side</em>, I didn't hesitate. I love discovering new-to-me authors, and Drea Scott is quickly becoming one of my favorites.</span></p><p class="isSelectedEnd"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I absolutely loved Callie and Brant's story. Their journey was heartbreaking at times, but also incredibly inspiring. Watching them navigate so much pain while still finding hope, light, and happiness in the darkness made this an emotional and unforgettable read. Their connection felt genuine, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way.</span></p><p class="isSelectedEnd"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I had a feeling this book would end on a cliffhanger, but I was <strong>not</strong> prepared for <em>that</em> ending. My jaw literally dropped, and I'm still processing everything that happened. Needless to say, I cannot wait to get my hands on book two and see how this duet continues.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Thank you to the <a href="https://dreascott.com/" target="_blank">author </a>for providing me with a digital ARC via <a href="https://bookfunnel.com/" target="_blank">BookFunnel </a>in exchange for an honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></p></div><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><b>Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><b><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/250772931-this-side?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=a4i7ZadFo5&rank=1" target="_blank">Synopsis</a>:</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915;">The only world they know is the one in the trailer park of Willowhart, West Virginia. Days are spent under those loblolly pine trees and dreaming about a brighter future. Nights are spent mending each other’s broken hearts, and sometimes, even the physical wounds have to be tended to.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915;">But where they lost in wealth and a decent home, they won in companionship. Despite the odds, Callie Rae Montgomery and Brant Beckett have one person beside them who promises a different life beyond the hills.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915;">At night, Brant listens outside the window of Callie’s trailer, waiting for the inevitable shouts and hollers. He may be younger and weaker than the man he’s up against, but Brant’s heart is twice as strong. It beats for two.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915;">That’s the thing about a pair of doves—they never let the other fly alone.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #1e1915;">

1972But even some of the darkest places have pockets of light. As much heartache Callie Rae and Brant are forced to endure, they’re granted moments filled with smiles, laughter, and eventually raging teenage hormones.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br style=&quot;background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;&quot; /&gt;&lt;br style=&quot;background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;&quot; /&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white; color: #1e1915;&quot;&gt;Emotions begin to spiral. Typical banter grows heated. And before Callie and Brant know it, their lifelong friendship blossoms into something neither of them is prepared for.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br style=&quot;background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;&quot; /&gt;&lt;br style=&quot;background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;&quot; /&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white; color: #1e1915;&quot;&gt;That’s the thing about young love—it’s innocent and intense. Unraveling at lightning speed until it’s too much to bundle up and take with you.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br style=&quot;background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;&quot; /&gt;&lt;br style=&quot;background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1e1915; margin: 0px;&quot; /&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white; color: #1e1915;&quot;&gt;Because sometimes, the side you’re on might just be too painful to keep.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;background-color: white; color: #1e1915;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/5476087339616513195/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/this-side-by-drea-scott-arc-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/5476087339616513195'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/5476087339616513195'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/07/this-side-by-drea-scott-arc-review.html' title='This Side by Drea Scott ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsZnD4wwMqQKslCUBYhNYbyJo0qOc6gSeCRaU2kbl1loLI7uj_fQT8wF8ZzzsS6sF1QSspXQ_gQZ2npA7uYI8Gbos8me-E9VtGLckaKu7kQrotHci2DzZRE4KJVGEVvA1lhBx7aCZavtay0BZVRuRWKKDp9CMAeyCX3Up840gQ7ygn-ACk1bbu7KJsWHE/s72-w313-h391-c/Untitled%20design%20(11).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-4869125477196698458</id><published>2026-06-18T04:58:46.196-06:00</published><updated>2026-06-18T04:59:13.010-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="2026Favorites"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="BeachRead"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ContemporaryRomance"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Featured"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="MostAnticipated"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="NewReleases"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Romance"/><title type='text'>West of Forever by Corinne Michaels ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2758X32ICWesHfCcGzRBgBSptyfGrf61lOBq3IzuZ2-xBQ-PigMBRN832I7b4HQn793fyCnQxUKxNfDs4O7CNubaNTYMi_vEUAeB2ftU-LADbQjmi6sAOniPlWQwN22Y8jqM1EiQj-n3C_yHcPQ4rCFRjj4nTQ999m65CnqOB2uDN4wPOybt7VZq6Nms/s1350/Untitled%20design%20(10).png&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;320&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2758X32ICWesHfCcGzRBgBSptyfGrf61lOBq3IzuZ2-xBQ-PigMBRN832I7b4HQn793fyCnQxUKxNfDs4O7CNubaNTYMi_vEUAeB2ftU-LADbQjmi6sAOniPlWQwN22Y8jqM1EiQj-n3C_yHcPQ4rCFRjj4nTQ999m65CnqOB2uDN4wPOybt7VZq6Nms/s320/Untitled%20design%20(10).png&quot; width=&quot;256&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Ever since I discovered Corinne Michaels through a TikTok video back in 2024, she has become one of my absolute favorite authors. Her books always take me on an emotional roller coaster, and &lt;em&gt;West of Forever&lt;/em&gt; completely exceeded my expectations in every way.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;

1972From page one, I was hooked. This story puts you through &lt;em&gt;all&lt;/em&gt; the emotions—you can&#39;t turn the pages fast enough to find out what happens next, but at the same time, you never want the story to end.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;The enemies-to-lovers romance between Tristan and Lark was everything I was hoping for. The tension? Perfect. The banter? Incredible. The chemistry and passion between them practically leapt off the page. Every interaction had me either smiling, swooning, or desperately needing to know what would happen next.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;I&#39;m always a little sad when I finish a beloved series, but I also love the excitement of diving into a brand-new one. If &lt;em&gt;West of Forever&lt;/em&gt; is any indication of what&#39;s to come from the Hearthstone Ranch series, then Corinne Michaels has set the bar incredibly high. I already cannot wait for the next book!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;If you love enemies-to-lovers romance with unforgettable characters, emotional depth, and all the tension your heart can handle, this one is a must-read.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Thank you to &lt;a href=&quot;https://corinnemichaels.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Corinne &lt;/a&gt;for my digital ARC via &lt;a href=&quot;https://bookfunnel.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;BookFunnel&lt;/a&gt; in exchange for an honest review. As always, my reviews are my own and unbiased opinions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/4869125477196698458/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/06/west-of-forever-by-corinne-michaels-arc.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4869125477196698458'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4869125477196698458'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/06/west-of-forever-by-corinne-michaels-arc.html' title='West of Forever by Corinne Michaels ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2758X32ICWesHfCcGzRBgBSptyfGrf61lOBq3IzuZ2-xBQ-PigMBRN832I7b4HQn793fyCnQxUKxNfDs4O7CNubaNTYMi_vEUAeB2ftU-LADbQjmi6sAOniPlWQwN22Y8jqM1EiQj-n3C_yHcPQ4rCFRjj4nTQ999m65CnqOB2uDN4wPOybt7VZq6Nms/s72-c/Untitled%20design%20(10).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-205186997009121695</id><published>2026-05-31T15:42:59.908-06:00</published><updated>2026-05-31T15:42:59.908-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Fantasy"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="YA"/><title type='text'>Their Will Undone by R.J. Valldeperas ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGlP5-nycd8tmeQQNiGIB07mb32UMhg4r8XbEMMvEPwDFt5nmalf6A26zQoTQ40v6FseszPw2ptRZOVGBBgfUbTED0CwA5C4WQOIi669uUDegVVrCYMG7IUWzvHl2lucCUa2BzYG593iQnLegsV-1AJwtsaTobGxOHkU-eWz2M5uAOmB7P7EiNkLZxOM/s1350/Untitled%20design%20(9).png&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; height=&quot;416&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGlP5-nycd8tmeQQNiGIB07mb32UMhg4r8XbEMMvEPwDFt5nmalf6A26zQoTQ40v6FseszPw2ptRZOVGBBgfUbTED0CwA5C4WQOIi669uUDegVVrCYMG7IUWzvHl2lucCUa2BzYG593iQnLegsV-1AJwtsaTobGxOHkU-eWz2M5uAOmB7P7EiNkLZxOM/w332-h416/Untitled%20design%20(9).png&quot; width=&quot;332&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;The synopsis for &lt;em&gt;Their Will Undone&lt;/em&gt; immediately caught my attention, especially with the Inca-inspired setting, magical elements, and romantic tension. After seeing so many glowing reviews on Goodreads, I was really excited to dive into this one.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Unfortunately, it took me quite a while to fully get into the story. The first 40-45% felt very confusing for me, mostly because I could only read in short bursts when I started the book. There are a lot of unfamiliar terms, worldbuilding details, and political elements introduced early on, so it took time to understand the setting and get properly situated in the story. I often felt like I was trying to piece everything together before I could really connect with the characters or plot.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;That being said, things definitely improved for me after the half

1972way mark. Once I became more familiar with the world, I started enjoying the journey much more. I liked the growing tension between Nina and Kasik, and I appreciated the slow unraveling of Nina’s magic and the mysteries surrounding her fate. The atmosphere and inspiration behind the empire felt unique and refreshing compared to many YA fantasies.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;While I did enjoy parts of the second half, the story never fully reached that “I can’t put this down” feeling for me personally. I wanted a little more emotional intensity and stronger pacing throughout. Still, I can absolutely see why many readers are loving this book, especially fans of slower-burn YA fantasy romances with detailed worldbuilding.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Thank you to &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.harpercollins.ca/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;HarperCollins&lt;/a&gt; for the digital ARC through &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.netgalley.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;NetGalley&lt;/a&gt; in exchange for an honest review.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;background-color: white;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/205186997009121695/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/their-will-undone-by-rj-valldeperas-arc.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/205186997009121695'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/205186997009121695'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/their-will-undone-by-rj-valldeperas-arc.html' title='Their Will Undone by R.J. Valldeperas ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUGlP5-nycd8tmeQQNiGIB07mb32UMhg4r8XbEMMvEPwDFt5nmalf6A26zQoTQ40v6FseszPw2ptRZOVGBBgfUbTED0CwA5C4WQOIi669uUDegVVrCYMG7IUWzvHl2lucCUa2BzYG593iQnLegsV-1AJwtsaTobGxOHkU-eWz2M5uAOmB7P7EiNkLZxOM/s72-w332-h416-c/Untitled%20design%20(9).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-228498124830259898</id><published>2026-05-28T12:00:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-05-28T12:00:00.199-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><title type='text'>Strangers in the Villa by Robyn Harding</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoP_pWXDc9BYrVaoUvgg_RyzlKk9sWGtg-74etwzhyphenhyphenu0Dr27Xftjf8BxcYgTUBYoVNFgHWUS_Ey9urZ1od9t5WxuO2-fQ8BXDcUDleoM3icnIRzmmWT8Jdy15ROeF8SEGOyEz0Y2ZPRmNRWkB7gynXdqsfmDGXEuMNkvylCe_JJAJMp4BJNGucnHpfp4/s1600/Strangers%20in%20the%20Villa.jpg
1973&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;628&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1200&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoP_pWXDc9BYrVaoUvgg_RyzlKk9sWGtg-74etwzhyphenhyphenu0Dr27Xftjf8BxcYgTUBYoVNFgHWUS_Ey9urZ1od9t5WxuO2-fQ8BXDcUDleoM3icnIRzmmWT8Jdy15ROeF8SEGOyEz0Y2ZPRmNRWkB7gynXdqsfmDGXEuMNkvylCe_JJAJMp4BJNGucnHpfp4/s1600/Strangers%20in%20the%20Villa.jpg
1974&quot; style=&quot;display:none;&quot;/&gt;&lt;/a&gt;
1975
1976&lt;style&gt;
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2014
2015  /* ── Section heading ─────────────────────────────────── */
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2247  /* ── PULL QUOTE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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2351  /* ── TROPE METER ─────────────────────────────────────── */
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2409  /* ── COMMUNITY REVIEWS ───────────────────────────────── */
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2470
2471  /* ── WHO SHOULD READ ─────────────────────────────────── */
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2507  /* ── SIMILAR READS ───────────────────────────────────── */
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2554  /* ── SERIES BANNER ───────────────────────────────────── */
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2690  /* ── FOOTER STRIPE ───────────────────────────────────── */
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2721  /* ── RESPONSIVE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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2737
2738<div class="page-wrap">
2739  
2740  <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg" style="display:none;"/></a>
2741
2742  <div class="section-heading cursor: default;">
2743    <span>Book Review</span>
2744  </div>
2745
2746  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
2747    <div class="cover-side">
2748      <div class="cover-wrap">
2749        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51uP2nBs0-L._SY445_SX342_ML2_.jpg" alt="Strangers in the Villa by Robyn Harding">
2750      </div>
2751      <div class="stars">
2752        <svg class="star"

2752 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
2753        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
2754        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
2755        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
2756        <svg class="star-empty" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
2757      </div>
2758      <p class="rating-text">My Rating<br>4 / 5 Stars</p>
2759      <div class="series-badge">NetGalley ARC<br>Out March 3, 2026</div>
2760    </div>
2761
2762    <div class="content-side">
2763      <p class="book-meta">Robyn Harding • NetGalley ARC • Grand Central Publishing</p>
2764      <h1 class="book-title">Strangers in the <em>Villa</em></h1>
2765      <p class="book-author">by Robyn Harding</p>
2766      <p class="synopsis-short">
2767        A gorgeous setting with a deeply creepy underbelly. Hoping to piece their marriage back together in an isolated villa on Spain’s beautiful Costa Brava, Sydney and Curtis make the fateful choice to offer shelter to two stranded travelers, triggering a high-tension grid of hidden motives where no one can be trusted.
2768      </p>
2769      <div class="tags">
2770        <span class="tag">Psychological Thriller</span>
2771        <span class="tag">Domestic Suspense</span>
2772        <span class="tag">Isolated Setting</span>
2773        <span class="tag">Multiple POVs</span>
2774      </div>
2775      <div class="info-row">
2776        <div class="info-item">
2777          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
2778          <span class="info-value">336</span>
2779        </div>
2780        <div class="info-item">
2781          <span class="info-label">Format</span>
2782          <span class="info-value">Advance Copy</span>
2783        </div>
2784        <div class="info-item">
2785          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
2786          <span class="info-value">Grand Central</span>
2787        </div>
2788      </div>
2789    </div>
2790  </div>
2791
2792  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Review</span></div>
2793  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
2794    <p>I have been a Robyn Harding fan since <em>The Arrangement</em>, and I consider her as an auto-buy author. So when I saw <em>Strangers in the Villa</em> was available on NetGalley, I hit that request button so fast.</p>
2795    <p>Sydney and Curtis leave New York for a remote hilltop villa in Spain's Costa Brava after Curtis admits to an affair. They're there to save their marriage when two charming Australian travelers knock on the door with a broken-down van and nowhere to go. Sydney, lonely and desperate for company, invites them in. Big mistake! From that point on, everyone in that villa is hiding something, and the tension just keep intensifying. Harding does such a great job creating that claustrophobic, no-escape feeling with the isolated setting, it's gorgeous on the surface but increasingly creepy underneath.</p>
2796    <p>The multiple POVs are really well done. Every character feels slightly untrustworthy, which keeps you constantly second-guessing yourself. The pacing starts slower and builds deliberately, but the back half more than makes up for it, the twists come fast and the ending is really satisfying.</p>
2797    <p>My only honest note is that some of the twists felt slightly predictable, and a couple of the characters were hard to root for. But honestly, that's minor. This is exactly the kind of book you want for a weekend read when you just want to get completely lost in a story.</p>
2798  </div>
2799
2800  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
2801    <p>Harding does such a great job creating that claustrophobic, no-escape feeling with the isolated setting, it's gorgeous on the surface but increasingly creepy underneath.</p>
2802    <cite>— Book Obsessed Introverts</cite>
2803  </div>
2804
2805  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
2806  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
2807    <div class="detail-block">
2808      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
2809      <ul>
2810        <li>A slow-building plot that spirals into an intense second half</li>
2811        <li>A highly claustrophobic, beautifully descriptive Spanish setting</li>
2812        <li>A deeply untrustworthy cast written across multiple perspectives</li>
2813        <li>A fast, twist-filled weekend domestic thriller ride</li>
2814      </ul>
2815    </div>
2816    <div class="detail-block">
2817      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
2818      <div>
2819        <span class="cw-tag">Marital Infidelity</span>
2820        <span class="cw-tag">Deception / Manipulation</span>
2821        <span class="cw-tag">Psychological Peril</span>
2822        <span class="cw-tag">Confinement Dynamics</span>
2823      </div>
2824    </div>
2825    <div class="detail-block">
2826      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
2827      <p>Yes. This is a standalone psychological thriller with a fully self-contained storyline and a completely resolved ending.</p>
2828    </div>
2829    <div class="detail-block">
2830      <h3>Romance Level</h3>
2831      <p>Low. The focus balances entirely on a broken marital relationship, complex baggage, and transactional charm over standard romance beats.</p>
2832    </div>
2833  </div>
2834
2835  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
2836  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
2837    <div class="trope-row">
2838      <span class="trope-name">Isolated Setting</span>
2839      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:95%"></div></div>
2840      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
2841    </div>
2842    <div class="trope-row">
2843      <span class="trope-name">Untrustworthy Characters</span>
2844      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:90%"></div></div>
2845      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
2846    </div>
2847    <div class="trope-row">
2848      <span class="trope-name">Claustrophobic Tension</span>
2849      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:88%"></div></div>
2850      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
2851    </div>
2852    <div class="trope-row">
2853      <span class="trope-name">Fast Back-Half Pacing</span>
2854      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:85%"></div></div>
2855      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
2856    </div>
2857    <div class="trope-row">
2858      <span class="trope-name">Unlikable Main Cast</span>
2859      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:70%"></div></div>
2860      <span class="trope-level">Moderate</span>
2861    </div>
2862  </div>
2863
2864  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
2865  <div class="who-section fade-5">
2866    <div class="who-grid">
2867      <div class="who-card">
2868        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
2869        <span class="who-text">Dedicated fans of Robyn Harding's signature character tension who auto-buy her releases.</span>
2870      </div>
2871      <div class="who-card">
2872        <span class="who-icon">🏖️</span>
2873        <span class="who-text">Readers looking for a fast-paced, atmospheric weekend thriller to get fully lost in.</span>
2874      </div>
2875      <div class="who-card">
2876        <span class="who-icon">👥</span>
2877        <span class="who-text">Anyone who loves shifting multi-POV perspectives where every narrator keeps you guessing.</span>
2878      </div>
2879      <div class="who-card">
2880        <span class="who-icon">👁️</span>
2881        <span class="who-text">Fans of tight, claustrophobic domestic stories where inviting strangers inside turns out to be a massive mistake.</span>
2882      </div>
2883    </div>
2884  </div>
2885
2886  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
2887  <div class="similar-section fade-5">
2888    <div class="similar-list">
2889      <div class="similar-item">
2890        <span class="similar-title">The Arrangement</span>
2891        <span class="similar-author">Robyn Harding</span>
2892        <span class="similar-reason">Her classic gritty exploration of modern transactional dynamics and explosive consequences.</span>
2893      </div>
2894      <div class="similar-item">
2895        <span class="similar-title">The Guest List</span>
2896        <span class="similar-author">Lucy Foley</span>
2897        <span class="similar-reason">An isolated, highly atmospheric setting packed with layered perspectives and deep old secrets.</span>
2898      </div>
2899      <div class="similar-item">
2900        <span class="similar-title">The Drowning Woman</span>
2901        <span class="similar-author">Robyn Harding</span>
2902        <span class="similar-reason">

2902Another incredible, quick-paced ride anchored by deep manipulation and sharp plot twists.</span>
2903      </div>
2904    </div>
2905  </div>
2906
2907  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>Robyn Harding Notable Novel Releases</span></div>
2908  <div class="series-banner fade-6">
2909    <div class="series-timeline">
2910      <div class="series-book">
2911        <p class="series-num">Thriller 1</p>
2912        <p class="series-title">The Arrangement</p>
2913        <p class="series-year">2019</p>
2914      </div>
2915      <div class="series-book">
2916        <p class="series-num">Thriller 2</p>
2917        <p class="series-title">The Perfect Family</p>
2918        <p class="series-year">2021</p>
2919      </div>
2920      <div class="series-book">
2921        <p class="series-num">Thriller 3</p>
2922        <p class="series-title">The Drowning Woman</p>
2923        <p class="series-year">2023</p>
2924      </div>
2925      <div class="series-book active">
2926        <p class="series-num">Thriller 4</p>
2927        <p class="series-title">Strangers in the Villa</p>
2928        <p class="series-year">2026</p>
2929      </div>
2930    </div>
2931  </div>
2932
2933  <div class="cta-banner fade-6">
2934    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
2935    <h2 class="cta-headline">Craving Your <em>Next Great Read</em>?</h2>
2936    <p class="cta-body">
2937      Don't stop here! We have a whole library of spoiler-free thriller spotlights, hidden gem recommendations, and seasonal reading guides curated specifically for introverted bookworms. Head back to the blog feed to find your next favorite book.
2938    </p>
2939    <div class="cta-buttons">
2940      <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com" target="_blank"><span>Explore Our Blog</span></a>
2941      <a class="btn btn-secondary" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/238142885-strangers-in-the-villa?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=LDClXwt6KT&rank=1" target="_blank"><span>Add on Goodreads</span></a>
2942    </div>
2943  </div>
2944
2945  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
2946    <p>Spotlight by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
2947    <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/search/label/Mystery&Thriller" target="_blank">Browse more Mystery & Thriller reviews →</a>
2948  </div>
2949
2950</div>
2951
2952<div style="max-width: 860px; margin: 20px auto 0; font-family: 'Readex Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #555; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; padding: 0 32px;">
2953  Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.
2954&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/228498124830259898/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/strangers-in-villa-by-robyn-harding.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/228498124830259898'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/228498124830259898'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/strangers-in-villa-by-robyn-harding.html' title='Strangers in the Villa by Robyn Harding'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

2954<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoP_pWXDc9BYrVaoUvgg_RyzlKk9sWGtg-74etwzhyphenhyphenu0Dr27Xftjf8BxcYgTUBYoVNFgHWUS_Ey9urZ1od9t5WxuO2-fQ8BXDcUDleoM3icnIRzmmWT8Jdy15ROeF8SEGOyEz0Y2ZPRmNRWkB7gynXdqsfmDGXEuMNkvylCe_JJAJMp4BJNGucnHpfp4/s1600/Strangers%20in%20the%20Villa.jpg&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-370226851045971260</id><published>2026-05-27T12:00:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-05-27T12:00:00.135-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Fiction"/><title type='text'>The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3PubjojlR8EptdHMPvpSvcjT4FajkErlND76ofewexC5JFNPcQDYBGtDP9UV3WDIBKQGvX5cqgQZBbdmYp-gtGTjW49KFA72Tjuo3kI_OtL0t3jDpE5tPm1-B_Z14xl-_7uJvszGRJJqosyEGPuMs-s8OQc4adb0TOFaIWnj0pLot6l_DyErgffOT8M/s1600/Snowbirds.jpg
2955&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;628&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1200&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3PubjojlR8EptdHMPvpSvcjT4FajkErlND76ofewexC5JFNPcQDYBGtDP9UV3WDIBKQGvX5cqgQZBbdmYp-gtGTjW49KFA72Tjuo3kI_OtL0t3jDpE5tPm1-B_Z14xl-_7uJvszGRJJqosyEGPuMs-s8OQc4adb0TOFaIWnj0pLot6l_DyErgffOT8M/s1600/Snowbirds.jpgg
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2957
2958&lt;style&gt;
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2980  /* ── Animations ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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2990  .fade-1 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.05s both; }
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2995  .fade-6 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.55s both; }
2996
2997  /* ── Section heading ─────────────────────────────────── */
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3041  /* ── HERO CARD ───────────────────────────────────────── */
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3051  .cover-side {
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3060  .cover-wrap {
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3073  .stars {
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3105  .content-side {
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3130  .book-author {
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3139  .content-side p {
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3149    height: 1px;
3150    margin-bottom: 18px;
3151    transform-origin: left;
3152    animation: expandLine 0.8s ease 0.4s both;
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3185  .info-row {
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3212  /* ── FULL SYNOPSIS ───────────────────────────────────── */
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3228
3229  /* ── PULL QUOTE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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3274  /* ── DETAILS GRID ────────────────────────────────────── */
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3284  .detail-block {
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3319  /* Content warnings specific */
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3329    color: var(--text);
3330    margin: 3px 3px 3px 0;
3331  }
3332
3333  /* ── TROPE METER ─────────────────────────────────────── */
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3335    border: 1px solid var(--border);
3336    border-top: none;
3337    background: #fff;
3338    padding: 28px 32px;
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3340
3341  .trope-row {
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3343    align-items: center;
3344    gap: 14px;
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3358
3359  .trope-bar-bg {
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3361    height: 4px;
3362    background: var(--border);
3363    position: relative;
3364    overflow: hidden;
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3366
3367  .trope-bar-fill {
3368    height: 100%;
3369    background: var(--accent);
3370    border-radius: 0;
3371    animation: growBar 1s ease 0.5s both;
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3374
3375  @keyframes growBar {
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3379
3380  .trope-level {
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3453  /* ── WHO SHOULD READ ─────────────────────────────────── */
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3719
3720<div class="page-wrap">
3721  
3722  <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg" style="display:none;"/></a>
3723
3724  <div class="section-heading cursor: default;">
3725    <span>Book Review</span>
3726  </div>
3727
3728  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
3729    <div class="cover-side">
3730      <div class="cover-wrap">
3731        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1716496517i/211004155.jpg" alt="The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy">
3732      </div>
3733      <div class="stars">
3734        <svg class="star"

3734 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
3735        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
3736        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
3737        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
3738        <svg class="star-empty" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
3739      </div>
3740      <p class="rating-text">My Rating<br>4 / 5 Stars</p>
3741      <div class="series-badge">NetGalley ARC<br>Out February 4, 2025</div>
3742    </div>
3743
3744    <div class="content-side">
3745      <p class="book-meta">Christina Clancy • NetGalley ARC • St. Martin's Press</p>
3746      <h1 class="book-title">The <em>Snowbirds</em></h1>
3747      <p class="book-author">by Christina Clancy</p>
3748      <p class="synopsis-short">
3749        A slow-burning exploration of midlife cracks and lingering choices. Moving to Palm Springs after thirty years together, Kim dives into a vibrant winter getaway while Grant struggles to find his footing. When he disappears on a solo hike, Kim is left to look back across their long relationship timeline to map where he went.
3750      </p>
3751      <div class="tags">
3752        <span class="tag">General Fiction</span>
3753        <span class="tag">Contemporary Mystery</span>
3754        <span class="tag">Dual Timeline</span>
3755        <span class="tag">Relationship Drama</span>
3756      </div>
3757      <div class="info-row">
3758        <div class="info-item">
3759          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
3760          <span class="info-value">304</span>
3761        </div>
3762        <div class="info-item">
3763          <span class="info-label">Format</span>
3764          <span class="info-value">Advance Copy</span>
3765        </div>
3766        <div class="info-item">
3767          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
3768          <span class="info-value">St. Martin's</span>
3769        </div>
3770      </div>
3771    </div>
3772  </div>
3773
3774  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Review</span></div>
3775  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
3776    <p>Let me start by saying I'm almost exclusively a mystery thriller reader. Give me a serial killer, an FBI team, or a cold case and I'm completely in my element. Plain fiction is really not my thing at all, so the fact that I'm giving this four stars actually says a lot.</p>
3777    <p>The Snowbirds follows Kim and Grant, a couple who have been together for thirty years without ever getting married. They head to Palm Springs for the winter after Grant loses his job as a college professor and their twin daughters have grown up and moved out. Kim is all in from day one, new friends, new activities, soaking up the sun. Grant, on the other hand, can't seem to find his footing anywhere. Then one morning he heads out on a solo hike and doesn't come back. And now Kim has to sit with a terrifying question, is he lost out there, or did he finally leave for good?</p>
3778    <p>That mystery element at the heart of the story is honestly what kept me reading. While this isn't really a thriller by any stretch, the tension of not knowing what happened to Grant gives the whole book a slow burn quality that pulled me forward. The story flips back and forth between the present (the search, the waiting, Kim falling apart) and the past (how they got together, the life they built, the cracks that formed along the way). I actually really liked the dual timeline structure, it let me understand both of them better without it feeling like I was reading a relationship history textbook.</p>
3779    <p>Grant is not an easy character to like. He's a runner, emotionally checked out, always disappearing when things get hard, and that's frustrating to read. Kim isn't perfect either. But here's the thing: that messiness felt real. These aren't cookie-cutter characters, they're two flawed people who have been bumbling through life together for decades and are finally being forced to look at what they actually mean to each other. The growth Kim goes through by the end of the book surprised me.</p>
3780    <p>The supporting cast at their Palm Springs condo complex is a real highlight, quirky, warm, and fun. They bring some lightness to what is otherwise a pretty heavy story.</p>
3781    <p>The pace is slow. No question about it. If you need action and plot twists, this is not that book. But if you're in the mood for something more emotional and thoughtful, or if you're a fiction reader who enjoys stories about marriage, midlife, and what it means to really commit to someone, you'll likely love this one more than I did.</p>
3782    <p>For me, four stars, and honestly, a pleasant surprise for someone who barely ever picks up straight fiction.</p>
3783  </div>
3784
3785  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
3786    <p>While this isn't really a thriller by any stretch, the tension of not knowing what happened to Grant gives the whole book a slow burn quality that pulled me forward.</p>
3787    <cite>— Book Obsessed Introverts</cite>
3788  </div>
3789
3790  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
3791  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
3792    <div class="detail-block">
3793      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
3794      <ul>
3795        <li>A slow, deliberate pace focusing on emotional character depth</li>
3796        <li>An atmospheric, sunny Palm Springs condominium setting</li>
3797        <li>A structural dual-timeline mapping out a 30-year bond</li>
3798        <li>A quirky, warm supporting cast that balances heavy themes</li>
3799      </ul>
3800    </div>
3801    <div class="detail-block">
3802      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
3803      <div>
3804        <span class="cw-tag">Missing Person Tension</span>
3805        <span class="cw-tag">Job Loss / Midlife Crisis</span>
3806        <span class="cw-tag">Emotional Withdrawal</span>
3807        <span class="cw-tag">Marital Strain</span>
3808      </div>
3809    </div>
3810    <div class="detail-block">
3811      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
3812      <p>Yes. This is a standalone contemporary novel exploring a singular family dynamic with a fully concluded ending.</p>
3813    </div>
3814    <div class="detail-block">
3815      <h3>Romance Level</h3>
3816      <p>Moderate. Rather than a standard courtship, it features a deeply realistic look at the long-term work, messiness, and compromise of a decades-old partnership.</p>
3817    </div>
3818  </div>
3819
3820  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
3821  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
3822    <div class="trope-row">
3823      <span class="trope-name">Dual Timeline</span>
3824      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:92%"></div></div>
3825      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
3826    </div>
3827    <div class="trope-row">
3828      <span class="trope-name">Slow Burn Mystery</span>
3829      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:85%"></div></div>
3830      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
3831    </div>
3832    <div class="trope-row">
3833      <span class="trope-name">Flawed, Messy Characters</span>
3834      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:88%"></div></div>
3835      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
3836    </div>
3837    <div class="trope-row">
3838      <span class="trope-name">Pacing Velocity</span>
3839      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:40%"></div></div>
3840      <span class="trope-level">Slow</span>
3841    </div>
3842    <div class="trope-row">
3843      <span class="trope-name">Quirky Neighbors Vibe</span>
3844      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:75%"></div></div>
3845      <span class="trope-level">Moderate</span>
3846    </div>
3847  </div>
3848
3849  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
3850  <div class="who-section fade-5">
3851    <div class="who-grid">
3852      <div class="who-card">
3853        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
3854        <span class="who-text">Fiction readers who enjoy nuanced, realistic stories centered around marriage, commitment, and midlife.</span>
3855      </div>
3856      <div class="who-card">
3857        <span class="who-icon">🔍</span>
3858        <span class="who-text">Mystery fans looking for a thoughtful, character-driven change of pace that still keeps a central question at its heart.</span>
3859      </div>
3860      <div class="who-card">
3861        <span class="who-icon">🌵</span>
3862        <span class="who-text">Anyone who appreciates an atmospheric setting that perfectly captures a winter seasonal community.</span>
3863      </div>
3864      <div class="who-card">
3865        <span class="who-icon">🌱</span>
3866        <span class="who-text">Readers who love stories about personal development and seeing realistic characters undergo true internal growth.</span>
3867      </div>
3868    </div>
3869  </div>
3870
3871  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
3872  <div class="similar-section fade-5">
3873    <div class="similar-list">
3874      <div class="similar-item">
3875        <span class="similar-title">Shoulder Season</span>
3876        <span class="similar-author">Christina Clancy</span>
3877        <span class="similar-reason">Her beautifully written debut exploration of past choices, youth, and finding oneself.</span>
3878      </div>
3879      <div class="similar-item">
3880        <span class="similar-title">The Paper Palace</span>
3881        <span class="similar-author">Miranda Cowley Heller</span>
3882        <span class="similar-reason">A rich, slow-burning dive into past relationship secrets and long-held fam

3882ily bonds.</span>
3883      </div>
3884      <div class="similar-item">
3885        <span class="similar-title">The Second Home</span>
3886        <span class="similar-author">Christina Clancy</span>
3887        <span class="similar-reason">Another layered family narrative focused heavily on how childhood patterns impact adult life.</span>
3888      </div>
3889    </div>
3890  </div>
3891
3892  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>Christina Clancy Novel Releases</span></div>
3893  <div class="series-banner fade-6">
3894    <div class="series-timeline">
3895      <div class="series-book">
3896        <p class="series-num">Novel 1</p>
3897        <p class="series-title">The Second Home</p>
3898        <p class="series-year">2020</p>
3899      </div>
3900      <div class="series-book">
3901        <p class="series-num">Novel 2</p>
3902        <p class="series-title">Shoulder Season</p>
3903        <p class="series-year">2021</p>
3904      </div>
3905      <div class="series-book active">
3906        <p class="series-num">Novel 3</p>
3907        <p class="series-title">The Snowbirds</p>
3908        <p class="series-year">2025</p>
3909      </div>
3910    </div>
3911  </div>
3912
3913  <div class="cta-banner fade-6">
3914    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
3915    <h2 class="cta-headline">Craving Your <em>Next Great Read</em>?</h2>
3916    <p class="cta-body">
3917      Don't stop here! We have a whole library of spoiler-free thriller spotlights, hidden gem recommendations, and seasonal reading guides curated specifically for introverted bookworms. Head back to the blog feed to find your next favorite book.
3918    </p>
3919    <div class="cta-buttons">
3920      <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com" target="_blank"><span>Explore Our Blog</span></a>
3921      <a class="btn btn-secondary" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211004155-the-snowbirds" target="_blank"><span>Add on Goodreads</span></a>
3922    </div>
3923  </div>
3924
3925  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
3926    <p>Spotlight by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
3927    <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/search/label/Mystery&Thriller" target="_blank">Browse more Mystery & Thriller reviews →</a>
3928  </div>
3929
3930</div>
3931
3932<div style="max-width: 860px; margin: 20px auto 0; font-family: 'Readex Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #555; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; padding: 0 32px;">
3933  Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.
3934&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/370226851045971260/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/the-snowbirds-by-christina-clancy.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/370226851045971260'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/370226851045971260'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/the-snowbirds-by-christina-clancy.html' title='The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

3934<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3PubjojlR8EptdHMPvpSvcjT4FajkErlND76ofewexC5JFNPcQDYBGtDP9UV3WDIBKQGvX5cqgQZBbdmYp-gtGTjW49KFA72Tjuo3kI_OtL0t3jDpE5tPm1-B_Z14xl-_7uJvszGRJJqosyEGPuMs-s8OQc4adb0TOFaIWnj0pLot6l_DyErgffOT8M/s1600/Snowbirds.jpgg&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-7080390009990210520</id><published>2026-05-26T12:00:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-05-26T12:00:00.123-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><title type='text'>See How They Hide by Allison Brennan</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FIICS0NNxMwCwVE8od4W2DmtyRrYOgNtGwdR_FcklaxyQMndDxgy6nIM88a-9fPWgpuUf_vVukaJMMFPtAXs_rjIeadB3W1eTR8EfZUGvuISqRhkZBriq9M2AHBmlvuosIGRYzDIqbKt9h5MaHDACBm-vcF9FWG_okY0D3k9QHcRsXnokpGeiSqqqCA/s1600/See%20How%20They.jpg
3935&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;628&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1200&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FIICS0NNxMwCwVE8od4W2DmtyRrYOgNtGwdR_FcklaxyQMndDxgy6nIM88a-9fPWgpuUf_vVukaJMMFPtAXs_rjIeadB3W1eTR8EfZUGvuISqRhkZBriq9M2AHBmlvuosIGRYzDIqbKt9h5MaHDACBm-vcF9FWG_okY0D3k9QHcRsXnokpGeiSqqqCA/s1600/See%20How%20They.jpg
3936&quot; style=&quot;display:none;&quot;/&gt;&lt;/a&gt;
3937    
3938&lt;style&gt;
3939  :root {
3940    --cream: #f2ede8;
3941    --warm-white: #faf7f4;
3942    --border: #f0eae4;
3943    --border-dark: #e1d4c7;
3944    --accent: #604435;
3945    --accent-light: #8a6050;
3946    --text: #1a1a1a;
3947    --text-muted: #888;
3948    --tag-bg: #f0eae4;
3949    --tag-hover: #e9dfd6;
3950  }
3951
3952  .page-wrap {
3953    max-width: 860px;
3954    margin: 0 auto;
3955    font-family: &#39;Readex Pro&#39;, sans-serif;
3956    font-weight: 300;
3957    color: var(--text);
3958  }
3959  
3960  /* ── Animations ──────────────────────────────────────── */
3961  @keyframes fadeUp {
3962    from { opacity: 0; transform: translateY(20px); }
3963    to   { opacity: 1; transform: translateY(0); }
3964  }
3965  @keyframes expandLine {
3966    from { transform: scaleX(0); }
3967    to   { transform: scaleX(1); }
3968  }
3969
3970  .fade-1 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.05s both; }
3971  .fade-2 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.15s both; }
3972  .fade-3 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.25s both; }
3973  .fade-4 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.35s both; }
3974  .fade-5 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.45s both; }
3975  .fade-6 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.55s both; }
3976
3977  /* ── Section heading ─────────────────────────────────── */
3978  .section-heading {
3979    display: flex;
3980    align-items: center;
3981    gap: 14px;
3982    margin-bottom: 32px;
3983  }
3984  .section-heading::before,
3985  .section-heading::after {
3986    content: &#39;&#39;;
3987    flex: 1;
3988    height: 1px;
3989    background: var(--border);
3990  }
3991  .section-heading span {
3992    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
3993    font-size: 10px;
3994    text-transform: uppercase;
3995    letter-spacing: 2.5px;
3996    color: var(--text);
3997    white-space: nowrap;
3998  }
3999
4000  .subheading-bar {
4001    display: flex;
4002    align-items: center;
4003    gap: 12px;
4004    margin: 40px 0 20px;
4005  }
4006  .subheading-bar span {
4007    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4008    font-size: 9px;
4009    text-transform: uppercase;
4010    letter-spacing: 2px;
4011    color: var(--text);
4012    white-space: nowrap;
4013  }
4014  .subheading-bar::after {
4015    content: &#39;&#39;;
4016    flex: 1;
4017    height: 1px;
4018    background: var(--border);
4019  }
4020
4021  /* ── HERO CARD ───────────────────────────────────────── */
4022  .hero-card {
4023    display: grid;
4024    grid-template-columns: 200px 1fr;
4025    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4026    background: #fff;
4027    overflow: hidden;
4028    margin-bottom: 0;
4029  }
4030
4031  .cover-side {
4032    background: var(--cream);
4033    display: flex;
4034    flex-direction: column;
4035    align-items: center;
4036    padding: 32px 20px 24px;
4037    border-right: 1px solid var(--border);
4038  }
4039
4040  .cover-wrap {
4041    position: relative;
4042    width: 130px;
4043  }
4044  .cover-wrap::after {
4045    content: &#39;&#39;;
4046    position: absolute;
4047    inset: 0;
4048    box-shadow: 5px 7px 24px rgba(96, 68, 53, 0.25);
4049    pointer-events: none;
4050  }
4051  .cover-wrap img { width: 100%; display: block; }
4052
4053  .stars {
4054    margin-top: 18px;
4055    display: flex;
4056    gap: 3px;
4057  }
4058  .star { width: 12px; height: 12px; fill: var(--accent); }
4059  .star-empty { width: 12px; height: 12px; fill: none; stroke: var(--accent); stroke-width: 1.5; }
4060
4061  .rating-text {
4062    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4063    font-size: 8px;
4064    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
4065    color: var(--text-muted);
4066    margin-top: 7px;
4067    text-transform: uppercase;
4068    text-align: center;
4069  }
4070
4071  .series-badge {
4072    margin-top: 16px;
4073    padding: 6px 12px;
4074    border: 1px solid var(--border-dark);
4075    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4076    font-size: 7.5px;
4077    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
4078    text-transform: uppercase;
4079    color: var(--accent);
4080    text-align: center;
4081    background: var(--warm-white);
4082    line-height: 1.5;
4083  }
4084
4085  .content-side {
4086    padding: 32px 34px 28px;
4087    display: flex;
4088    flex-direction: column;
4089  }
4090
4091  .book-meta {
4092    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4093    font-size: 9px;
4094    letter-spacing: 2px;
4095    text-transform: uppercase;
4096    color: var(--text-muted);
4097    margin-bottom: 8px;
4098  }
4099
4100  .book-title {
4101    font-family: &#39;Cormorant Garamond&#39;, serif;
4102    font-size: 52px;
4103    font-weight: 300;
4104    line-height: 1;
4105    color: var(--text);
4106    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
4107  }
4108  .book-title em { font-style: italic; color: var(--accent); }
4109
4110  .book-author {
4111    font-family: &#39;Cormorant Garamond&#39;, serif;
4112    font-size: 15px;
4113    font-style: italic;
4114    font-weight: 300;
4115    color: var(--text-muted);
4116    margin-bottom: 20px !important;
4117  }
4118
4119  .content-side p {
4120    margin-top: 0 !important;
4121    margin-bottom: 0 !important;
4122  }
4123  .content-side .synopsis-short {
4124    margin-top: 8px !important;
4125    margin-bottom: 22px !important;
4126  }
4127  .divider {
4128    width: 40px;
4129    height: 1px;
4130    margin-bottom: 18px;
4131    transform-origin: left;
4132    animation: expandLine 0.8s ease 0.4s both;
4133    background: var(--accent) !important;
4134    border: none !important;
4135    outline: none !important;
4136  }
4137
4138  .synopsis-short {
4139    font-size: 13.5px;
4140    line-height: 1.85;
4141    color: #3a3a3a;
4142    margin-bottom: 22px;
4143  }
4144
4145  .tags {
4146    display: flex;
4147    flex-wrap: wrap;
4148    gap: 6px;
4149    margin-bottom: 22px;
4150  }
4151  .tag {
4152    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4153    font-size: 7.5px;
4154    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
4155    text-transform: uppercase;
4156    padding: 6px 12px;
4157    background: var(--tag-bg);
4158    color: var(--text);
4159    border: 1px solid var(--border-dark);
4160    transition: background 0.3s, color 0.3s;
4161    cursor: default;
4162  }
4163  .tag:hover { background: var(--tag-hover); color: var(--accent); }
4164
4165  .info-row {
4166    display: grid;
4167    grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr);
4168    gap: 10px;
4169  }
4170  .info-item {
4171    padding: 10px 12px;
4172    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4173    background: var(--cream);
4174    display: flex;
4175    flex-direction: column;
4176    gap: 2px;
4177  }
4178  .info-label {
4179    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4180    font-size: 7.5px;
4181    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
4182    text-transform: uppercase;
4183    color: var(--text-muted);
4184  }
4185  .info-value {
4186    font-family: &#39;Cormorant Garamond&#39;, serif;
4187    font-size: 15px;
4188    font-weight: 400;
4189    color: var(--text);
4190  }
4191
4192  /* ── FULL SYNOPSIS ───────────────────────────────────── */
4193  .synopsis-section {
4194    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4195    background: #fff;
4196    padding: 30px 32px;
4197    margin-bottom: 0;
4198    border-top: none;
4199  }
4200
4201  .synopsis-section p {
4202    font-size: 14px;
4203    line-height: 1.9;
4204    color: #3a3a3a;
4205    margin-bottom: 14px;
4206  }
4207  .synopsis-section p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
4208
4209  /* ── PULL QUOTE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
4210  .pull-quote-section {
4211    background: var(--cream);
4212    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4213    border-top: none;
4214    padding: 30px 40px;
4215    position: relative;
4216    overflow: hidden;
4217  }
4218  .pull-quote-section::before {
4219    content: &#39;\201C&#39;;
4220    font-family: &#39;Cormorant Garamond&#39;, serif;
4221    font-size: 120px;
4222    color: var(--border-dark);
4223    position: absolute;
4224    top: -20px;
4225    left: 20px;
4226    line-height: 1;
4227    pointer-events: none;
4228  }
4229  .pull-quote-section p {
4230    font-family: &#39;Cormorant Garamond&#39;, serif;
4231    font-size: 22px;
4232    font-style: italic;
4233    font-weight: 300;
4234    line-height: 1.6;
4235    color: var(--accent);
4236    position: relative;
4237    z-index: 1;
4238    padding-left: 30px;
4239  }
4240  .pull-quote-section cite {
4241    font-family: &#39;Lexend Mega&#39;, sans-serif;
4242    font-size: 8px;
4243    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
4244    text-transform: uppercase;
4245    color: var(--text-muted);
4246    display: block;
4247    margin-top: 10px;
4248    padding-left: 30px;
4249    font-style: normal;
4250    position: relative;
4251    z-index: 1;
4252  }
4253
4254  /* ── DETAILS GRID ────────────────────────────────────── */
4255  .details-grid {
4256    display: grid;
4257    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
4258    gap: 0;
4259    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4260    border-top: none;
4261    background: #fff;
4262  }
4263
4264  .detail-block {
4265    padding: 24px 28px;
4266    border-right: 1px solid var(--border);
4267    border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border);
4268  }

4269  .detail-block:nth-child(even) { border-right: none; }
4270  .detail-block:nth-last-child(-n+2) { border-bottom: none; }
4271
4272  .detail-block h3 {
4273    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
4274    font-size: 9px;
4275    letter-spacing: 2px;
4276    text-transform: uppercase;
4277    color: var(--text-muted);
4278    margin-bottom: 12px;
4279  }
4280
4281  .detail-block p, .detail-block li {
4282    font-size: 13.5px;
4283    line-height: 1.8;
4284    color: #3a3a3a;
4285  }
4286
4287  .detail-block ul {
4288    list-style: disc;
4289    padding-left: 18px;
4290  }
4291  .detail-block ul li {
4292    padding: 4px 0;
4293    border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border);
4294    display: flex;
4295    align-items: baseline;
4296    gap: 8px;
4297  }
4298
4299  /* Content warnings specific */
4300  .cw-tag {
4301    display: inline-block;
4302    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
4303    font-size: 7.5px;
4304    letter-spacing: 1px;
4305    text-transform: uppercase;
4306    padding: 4px 9px;
4307    border: 1px solid var(--border-dark);
4308    background: var(--tag-bg);
4309    color: var(--text);
4310    margin: 3px 3px 3px 0;
4311  }
4312
4313  /* ── TROPE METER ─────────────────────────────────────── */
4314  .trope-meter {
4315    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4316    border-top: none;
4317    background: #fff;
4318    padding: 28px 32px;
4319  }
4320
4321  .trope-row {
4322    display: flex;
4323    align-items: center;
4324    gap: 14px;
4325    margin-bottom: 12px;
4326  }
4327  .trope-row:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
4328
4329  .trope-name {
4330    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
4331    font-size: 8.5px;
4332    letter-spacing: 1px;
4333    text-transform: uppercase;
4334    color: var(--text);
4335    width: 170px;
4336    flex-shrink: 0;
4337  }
4338
4339  .trope-bar-bg {
4340    flex: 1;
4341    height: 4px;
4342    background: var(--border);
4343    position: relative;
4344    overflow: hidden;
4345  }
4346
4347  .trope-bar-fill {
4348    height: 100%;
4349    background: var(--accent);
4350    border-radius: 0;
4351    animation: growBar 1s ease 0.5s both;
4352    transform-origin: left;
4353  }
4354
4355  @keyframes growBar {
4356    from { transform: scaleX(0); }
4357    to   { transform: scaleX(1); }
4358  }
4359
4360  .trope-level {
4361    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
4362    font-size: 8px;
4363    letter-spacing: 1px;
4364    text-transform: uppercase;
4365    color: var(--text-muted);
4366    width: 50px;
4367    text-align: right;
4368    flex-shrink: 0;
4369  }
4370
4371  /* ── WHO SHOULD READ ─────────────────────────────────── */
4372  .who-section {
4373    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4374    border-top: none;
4375    background: var(--cream);
4376    padding: 28px 32px;
4377  }
4378
4379  .who-grid {
4380    display: grid;
4381    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
4382    gap: 10px;
4383    margin-top: 0;
4384  }
4385
4386  .who-card {
4387    background: #fff;
4388    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4389    padding: 16px 18px;
4390    display: flex;
4391    gap: 12px;
4392    align-items: flex-start;
4393  }
4394
4395  .who-icon {
4396    font-size: 18px;
4397    flex-shrink: 0;

4398    margin-top: 1px;
4399  }
4400
4401  .who-text {
4402    font-size: 13px;
4403    line-height: 1.7;
4404    color: #3a3a3a;
4405  }
4406
4407  /* ── SIMILAR READS ───────────────────────────────────── */
4408  .similar-section {
4409    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4410    border-top: none;
4411    background: #fff;
4412    padding: 28px 32px;
4413  }
4414
4415  .similar-list {
4416    display: grid;
4417    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr;
4418    gap: 12px;
4419  }
4420
4421  .similar-item {
4422    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4423    background: var(--cream);
4424    padding: 14px 16px;
4425    display: flex;
4426    flex-direction: column;
4427    gap: 4px;
4428  }
4429
4430  .similar-title {
4431    font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;
4432    font-size: 16px;
4433    font-style: italic;
4434    font-weight: 400;
4435    color: var(--text);
4436    line-height: 1.3;
4437  }
4438
4439  .similar-author {
4440    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
4441    font-size: 7.5px;
4442    letter-spacing: 1px;
4443    text-transform: uppercase;
4444    color: var(--text-muted);
4445  }
4446
4447  .similar-reason {
4448    font-size: 12px;
4449    color: #5a5a5a;
4450    margin-top: 4px;
4451    line-height: 1.5;
4452  }
4453
4454  /* ── 2x4 GRID SERIES RECONFIGURATION ─────────────────── */
4455  .series-banner-grid {
4456    border: 1px solid var(--border);
4457    border-top: none;
4458    background: #fff;
4459    padding: 24px 32px;
4460  }
4461
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4648
4649<div class="page-wrap">
4650      
4651  <div class="section-heading cursor: default;">
4652    <span>Book Review</span>
4653  </div>
4654
4655  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
4656    <div class="cover-side">
4657      <div class="cover-wrap">
4658        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1720959099i/211650089.jpg" alt="See How They Hide by Allison Brennan">
4659      </div>
4660      <div class="stars">
4661        <svg class="star"

4661 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
4662        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
4663        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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4666      </div>
4667      <p class="rating-text">My Rating<br>5 / 5 Stars</p>
4668      <div class="series-badge">NetGalley ARC<br>Out Jan 7, 2025</div>
4669    </div>
4670
4671    <div class="content-side">
4672      <p class="book-meta">Allison Brennan • NetGalley ARC • Harlequin Trade Publishing</p>
4673      <h1 class="book-title">See How They <em>Hide</em></h1>
4674      <p class="book-author">by Allison Brennan</p>
4675      <p class="synopsis-short">
4676        A relentless bi-coastal puzzle woven around dark psychological scars. When two disconnected victims are executed simultaneously on opposite sides of the country, the Mobile Response Team tracks an intricate trail of trauma back to a secretive, deeply unsettling mountain community in the Colorado Rockies.
4677      </p>
4678      <div class="tags">
4679        <span class="tag">Police Procedural</span>
4680        <span class="tag">Psychological Thriller</span>
4681        <span class="tag">Cult Investigation</span>
4682        <span class="tag">Quinn & Costa</span>
4683      </div>
4684      <div class="info-row">
4685        <div class="info-item">
4686          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
4687          <span class="info-value">414</span>
4688        </div>
4689        <div class="info-item">
4690          <span class="info-label">Format</span>
4691          <span class="info-value">Advance Copy</span>
4692        </div>
4693        <div class="info-item">
4694          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
4695          <span class="info-value">MIRA / Harlequin</span>
4696        </div>
4697      </div>
4698    </div>
4699  </div>
4700
4701  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Review</span></div>
4702  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
4703    <p>I've been with this series from Book One and I will say it plainly; Allison Brennan is one of the best in the business! Every single Quinn & Costa book has been an auto-buy for me and See How They Hide absolutely did not disappoint.</p>
4704    <p>The case this time is unlike anything the team has tackled before. Two people are murdered at the exact same moment, same method, same red poppies covering their bodies, but on opposite sides of the country. Kara is in Oregon, Matt is in Virginia, and nobody can figure out what connects the victims. That setup alone had me completely hooked from the first chapter.</p>
4705    <p>The answer, it turns out, leads back to a place called Havenwood, a hidden community tucked away in the Colorado Rockies that is equal parts fascinating and terrifying. Brennan clearly did a lot of research on the psychology of cults, and it shows. The way she builds out Havenwood's history, the way its leader controls the people inside it, and the way that damage follows people even after they escape, it all felt real and deeply unsettling in the best way. This isn't just a thriller plot device; it's a fully thought-out world with real weight behind it.</p>
4706    <p>Riley, the young woman at the centre of the investigation, is one of the best new characters Brennan has introduced in the whole series. She was raised inside Havenwood and everything about her, the fear, the mistrust, the courage she finds anyway, felt completely authentic. Watching Kara build a connection with her, understanding intuitively how to reach someone that closed off, was one of my favourite things about this book.</p>
4707    <p>And speaking of Kara, she is just as sharp and fierce as ever, and we finally get some real progress with her and Matt. Kara letting her guard down even a little bit has been a long time coming, and I loved every moment of it. I'll also say that Catherine has a bit of a turning point in this book that I did not see coming and honestly needed to happen!</p>
4708    <p>

4708The pace builds beautifully, it starts as a slow burn with the investigation spreading across multiple locations, and then the final stretch is absolutely relentless. The ending left me wanting the next book immediately.</p>
4709    <p>If you haven't started this series yet, please begin with Book One and work your way through. You will not regret a single page! All the stars! Allison Brennan keeps delivering and I keep showing up. Every single time.</p>
4710  </div>
4711
4712  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
4713    <p>Brennan clearly did a lot of research on the psychology of cults, and it shows... This isn't just a thriller plot device; it's a fully thought-out world with real weight behind it.</p>
4714    <cite>— Book Obsessed Introverts</cite>
4715  </div>
4716
4717  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
4718  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
4719    <div class="detail-block">
4720      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
4721      <ul>
4722        <li>A multi-city multi-jurisdictional FBI procedural track</li>
4723        <li>A gripping, highly realistic psychological study of a cult</li>
4724        <li>Substantial, long-awaited relationship growth for Matt & Kara</li>
4725        <li>An incredible, brilliantly written survivor character in Riley</li>
4726      </ul>
4727    </div>
4728    <div class="detail-block">
4729      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
4730      <div>
4731        <span class="cw-tag">Cult Manipulation</span>
4732        <span class="cw-tag">Dual Murder Coordinates</span>
4733        <span class="cw-tag">Institutional Trauma</span>
4734        <span class="cw-tag">Graphic Executions</span>
4735      </div>
4736    </div>
4737    <div class="detail-block">
4738      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
4739      <p>No, best enjoyed in order. While the immediate murder case resolves here, the deep emotional character development and overarching subplots demand you start with Book One.</p>
4740    </div>
4741    <div class="detail-block">
4742      <h3>Romance Level</h3>
4743      <p>Low heat, high personal connection. The dynamic between Matt and Kara offers meaningful pacing milestones that reward long-term series fans.</p>
4744    </div>
4745  </div>
4746
4747  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
4748  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
4749    <div class="trope-row">
4750      <span class="trope-name">Cult Conspiracy / Secrets</span>
4751      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:96%"></div></div>
4752      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
4753    </div>
4754    <div class="trope-row">
4755      <span class="trope-name">Simultaneous Execution</span>
4756      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:95%"></div></div>
4757      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
4758    </div>
4759    <div class="trope-row">
4760      <span class="trope-name">Slow Burn Partnership</span>
4761      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:88%"></div></div>
4762      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
4763    </div>
4764    <div class="trope-row">
4765      <span class="trope-name">Relentless Pacing Velocity</span>
4766      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:92%"></div></div>
4767      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
4768    </div>
4769    <div class="trope-row">
4770      <span class="trope-name">Heat / Steam</span>
4771      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:10%"></div></div>
4772      <span class="trope-level">Low</span>
4773    </div>
4774  </div>
4775
4776  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
4777  <div class="who-section fade-5">
4778    <div class="who-grid">
4779      <div class="who-card">
4780        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
4781        <span class="who-text">Long-term followers of the Quinn & Costa cases who want to see Matt and Kara finally drop their guards.</span>
4782      </div>
4783      <div class="who-card">
4784        <span class="who-icon">🔍</span>
4785        <span class="who-text">Procedural enthusiasts looking for a highly original, research-backed psychological cult puzzle.</span>
4786      </div>
4787      <div class="who-card">
4788        <span class="who-icon">⛰️</span>
4789        <span class="who-text">Readers who enjoy deeply authentic, resilient character arcs like Riley's struggle for survival.</span>
4790      </div>
4791      <div class="who-card">
4792        <span class="who-icon">⚡</span>
4793        <span class="who-text">Thrill seekers who crave slow-building investigations that pay off in completely relentless final chapters.</span>
4794      </div>
4795    </div>
4796  </div>
4797
4798  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
4799  <div class="similar-section fade-5">
4800    <div class="similar-list">
4801      <div class="similar-item">
4802        <span class="similar-title">The Sorority Murder</span>
4803        <span class="similar-author">Allison Brennan</span>
4804        <span class="similar-reason">Uncovers a dark network of sorority secrets and fatal conspiracies across a high-stakes, crowdsourced cold case investigation.</span>
4805      </div>
4806      <div class="similar-item">
4807        <span class="similar-title">Say You're Sorry</span>
4808        <span class="similar-author">Karen Rose</span>
4809        <span class="similar-reason">High-velocity romantic suspense matching protective instincts with complex, multi-state tactical hunting.</span>
4810      </div>
4811      <div class="similar-item">
4812        <span class="similar-title">The Woods</span>
4813        <span class="similar-author">Harlan Coben</span>
4814        <span class="similar-reason">Traces deep institutional trauma and past conspiracies that pierce multiple modern timelines.</span>
4815      </div>
4816    </div>
4817  </div>
4818
4819  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>Quinn & Costa Series Timeline</span></div>
4820  <div class="series-banner-grid fade-6">
4821    <div class="series-grid-layout">
4822      
4823      <div class="series-grid-book">
4824        <div>
4825          <p class="series-num">Book 1</p>
4826          <p class="series-title">The Third to Die</p>
4827        </div>
4828        <p class="series-year">2020</p>
4829      </div>
4830      
4831      <div class="series-grid-book">
4832        <div>
4833          <p class="series-num">Book 2</p>
4834          <p class="series-title">Tell No Lies</p>
4835        </div>
4836        <p class="series-year">2021</p>
4837      </div>
4838      
4839      <div class="series-grid-book">
4840        <div>
4841          <p class="series-num">Book 3</p>
4842          <p class="series-title">The Wrong Victim</p>
4843        </div>
4844        <p class="series-year">2022</p>
4845      </div>
4846      
4847      <div class="series-grid-book">
4848        <div>
4849          <p class="series-num">Book 4</p>
4850          <p class="series-title">Seven Girls Gone</p>
4851        </div>
4852        <p class="series-year">2023</p>
4853      </div>
4854
4855      <div class="series-grid-book">
4856        <div>
4857          <p class="series-num">Book 5</p>
4858          <p class="series-title">The Missing Witness</p>
4859        </div>
4860        <p class="series-year">2024</p>
4861      </div>
4862
4863      <div class="series-grid-book active">
4864        <div>
4865          <p class="series-num">Book 6</p>
4866          <p class="series-title">See How They Hide</p>
4867        </div>
4868        <p class="series-year">2025</p>
4869      </div>
4870
4871      <div class="series-grid-book">
4872        <div>
4873          <p class="series-num">Book 7</p>
4874          <p class="series-title">Make It Out Alive</p>
4875        </div>
4876        <p class="series-year">2026</p>
4877      </div>
4878
4879      <div class="series-grid-book">
4880        <div>
4881          <p class="series-num">Book 8</p>
4882          <p class="series-title">One Last Warning</p>
4883        </div>
4884        <p class="series-year">2027</p>
4885      </div>
4886
4887    </div>
4888  </div>
4889
4890  <div class="cta-banner fade-6">
4891    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
4892    <h2 class="cta-headline">Craving Your <em>Next Great Read</em>?</h2>
4893    <p class="cta-body">
4894      Don't stop here! We have a whole library of spoiler-free thriller spotlights, hidden gem recommendations, and seasonal reading guides curated specifically for introverted bookworms. Head back to the blog feed to find your next favorite book.
4895    </p>
4896    <div class="cta-buttons">
4897      <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com" target="_blank"><span>Explore Our Blog</span></a>
4898      <a class="btn btn-secondary" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/211650089-see-how-they-hide" target="_blank"><span>Add on Goodreads</span></a>
4899    </div>
4900  </div>
4901
4902  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
4903    <p>

4903Spotlight by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
4904    <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/search/label/Mystery&Thriller" target="_blank">Browse more Mystery & Thriller reviews →</a>
4905  </div>
4906
4907</div>
4908
4909<div style="max-width: 860px; margin: 20px auto 0; font-family: 'Readex Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #555; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; padding: 0 32px;">
4910  Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.
4911&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/7080390009990210520/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/see-how-they-hide-by-allison-brennan.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/7080390009990210520'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/7080390009990210520'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/see-how-they-hide-by-allison-brennan.html' title='See How They Hide by Allison Brennan'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_FIICS0NNxMwCwVE8od4W2DmtyRrYOgNtGwdR_FcklaxyQMndDxgy6nIM88a-9fPWgpuUf_vVukaJMMFPtAXs_rjIeadB3W1eTR8EfZUGvuISqRhkZBriq9M2AHBmlvuosIGRYzDIqbKt9h5MaHDACBm-vcF9FWG_okY0D3k9QHcRsXnokpGeiSqqqCA/s1600/See%20How%20They.jpg&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-9222124556076096875</id><published>2026-05-21T07:00:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-05-21T07:00:00.116-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><title type='text'>The Women in White by Sarah Pekkanen</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDU5cwvFU7CatGmgsLSzHILW7cN5_3QQGtwCr44iDtaYne892r6WDGWwWgstP0D7YI22RO9GpzEJRK6yH-A2l_gC755qKvLlzV7GVjbggmiQ1AnfcGpa9x3bDRiK2DA5Njm6RJ2pBcqcYo9WpYgs6gaiMsQMLFY1YbyEONfPrHVMFvp12MFVJ_0dZXHZg/s1920/pexels-ekaterina-swiss-3802271-7902687.jpg
4912&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;628&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1200&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDU5cwvFU7CatGmgsLSzHILW7cN5_3QQGtwCr44iDtaYne892r6WDGWwWgstP0D7YI22RO9GpzEJRK6yH-A2l_gC755qKvLlzV7GVjbggmiQ1AnfcGpa9x3bDRiK2DA5Njm6RJ2pBcqcYo9WpYgs6gaiMsQMLFY1YbyEONfPrHVMFvp12MFVJ_0dZXHZg/s16000/pexels-ekaterina-swiss-3802271-7902687.jpg
4913&quot; style=&quot;display:none;&quot;/&gt;&lt;/a&gt;
4914
4915
4916&lt;style&gt;
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4921    --border-dark: #e1d4c7;
4922    --accent: #604435;
4923    --accent-light: #8a6050;
4924    --text: #1a1a1a;
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4938  /* ── Animations ──────────────────────────────────────── */
4939  @keyframes fadeUp {
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4947
4948  .fade-1 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.05s both; }
4949  .fade-2 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.15s both; }
4950  .fade-3 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.25s both; }
4951  .fade-4 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.35s both; }
4952  .fade-5 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.45s both; }
4953  .fade-6 { animation: fadeUp 0.7s ease 0.55s both; }
4954
4955  /* ── Section heading ─────────────────────────────────── */
4956  .section-heading {
4957    display: flex;
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4959    gap: 14px;
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4998
4999  /* ── HERO CARD ───────────────────────────────────────── */
5000  .hero-card {
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5018  .cover-wrap {
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5031  .stars {
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5063  .content-side {
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5088  .book-author {
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5097  .content-side p {
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5105  .divider {
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5109    transform-origin: left;
5110    animation: expandLine 0.8s ease 0.4s both;
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5112    border: none !important;
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5116  .synopsis-short {
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5119    color: #3a3a3a;
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5123  .tags {
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5136    color: var(--text);
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5138    transition: background 0.3s, color 0.3s;
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5143  .info-row {
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5165    font-size: 15px;
5166    font-weight: 400;
5167    color: var(--text);
5168  }
5169
5170  /* ── FULL SYNOPSIS ───────────────────────────────────── */
5171  .synopsis-section {
5172    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5173    background: #fff;
5174    padding: 30px 32px;
5175    margin-bottom: 0;
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5182    color: #3a3a3a;
5183    margin-bottom: 14px;
5184  }
5185  .synopsis-section p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
5186
5187  /* ── PULL QUOTE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
5188  .pull-quote-section {
5189    background: var(--cream);
5190    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5191    border-top: none;
5192    padding: 30px 40px;
5193    position: relative;
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5209    font-size: 22px;
5210    font-style: italic;
5211    font-weight: 300;
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5227    font-style: normal;
5228    position: relative;
5229    z-index: 1;
5230  }
5231
5232  /* ── DETAILS GRID ────────────────────────────────────── */
5233  .details-grid {
5234    display: grid;
5235    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
5236    gap: 0;
5237    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5238    border-top: none;
5239    background: #fff;
5240  }
5241
5242  .detail-block {
5243    padding: 24px 28px;
5244    border-right: 1px solid var(--border);
5245    border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border);
5246  }

5247  .detail-block:nth-child(even) { border-right: none; }
5248  .detail-block:nth-last-child(-n+2) { border-bottom: none; }
5249
5250  .detail-block h3 {
5251    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
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5253    letter-spacing: 2px;
5254    text-transform: uppercase;
5255    color: var(--text-muted);
5256    margin-bottom: 12px;
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5258
5259  .detail-block p, .detail-block li {
5260    font-size: 13.5px;
5261    line-height: 1.8;
5262    color: #3a3a3a;
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5264
5265  .detail-block ul {
5266    list-style: disc;
5267    padding-left: 18px;
5268  }
5269  .detail-block ul li {
5270    padding: 4px 0;
5271    border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border);
5272    display: flex;
5273    align-items: baseline;
5274    gap: 8px;
5275  }
5276
5277  /* Content warnings specific */
5278  .cw-tag {
5279    display: inline-block;
5280    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
5281    font-size: 7.5px;
5282    letter-spacing: 1px;
5283    text-transform: uppercase;
5284    padding: 4px 9px;
5285    border: 1px solid var(--border-dark);
5286    background: var(--tag-bg);
5287    color: var(--text);
5288    margin: 3px 3px 3px 0;
5289  }
5290
5291  /* ── TROPE METER ─────────────────────────────────────── */
5292  .trope-meter {
5293    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5294    border-top: none;
5295    background: #fff;
5296    padding: 28px 32px;
5297  }
5298
5299  .trope-row {
5300    display: flex;
5301    align-items: center;
5302    gap: 14px;
5303    margin-bottom: 12px;
5304  }
5305  .trope-row:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
5306
5307  .trope-name {
5308    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
5309    font-size: 8.5px;
5310    letter-spacing: 1px;
5311    text-transform: uppercase;
5312    color: var(--text);
5313    width: 170px;
5314    flex-shrink: 0;
5315  }
5316
5317  .trope-bar-bg {
5318    flex: 1;
5319    height: 4px;
5320    background: var(--border);
5321    position: relative;
5322    overflow: hidden;
5323  }
5324
5325  .trope-bar-fill {
5326    height: 100%;
5327    background: var(--accent);
5328    border-radius: 0;
5329    animation: growBar 1s ease 0.5s both;
5330    transform-origin: left;
5331  }
5332
5333  @keyframes growBar {
5334    from { transform: scaleX(0); }
5335    to   { transform: scaleX(1); }
5336  }
5337
5338  .trope-level {
5339    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
5340    font-size: 8px;
5341    letter-spacing: 1px;
5342    text-transform: uppercase;
5343    color: var(--text-muted);
5344    width: 50px;
5345    text-align: right;
5346    flex-shrink: 0;
5347  }
5348
5349  /* ── COMMUNITY REVIEWS ───────────────────────────────── */
5350  .reviews-section {
5351    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5352    border-top: none;
5353    background: #fff;
5354    overflow: hidden;
5355  }
5356
5357  .review-card {
5358    padding: 24px 30px;
5359    border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border);
5360  }
5361  .review-card:last-child { border-bottom: none; }
5362
5363  .review-header {
5364    display: flex;
5365    align-items: center;
5366    justify-content: space-between;
5367    margin-bottom: 10px;
5368    gap: 12px;
5369    flex-wrap: wrap;
5370  }
5371
5372  .reviewer-info {
5373    display: flex;
5374    flex-direction: column;
5375    gap: 2px;
5376  }
5377
5378  .reviewer-name {
5379    font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;
5380    font-size: 17px;
5381    font-weight: 400;
5382    color: var(--text);
5383  }
5384
5385  .reviewer-meta {
5386    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
5387    font-size: 8px;
5388    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
5389    text-transform: uppercase;
5390    color: var(--text-muted);
5391  }
5392
5393  .review-stars {
5394    display: flex;
5395    gap: 2px;
5396    flex-shrink: 0;
5397  }
5398  .rs { width: 11px; height: 11px; fill: var(--accent); }
5399  .rs-e { width: 11px; height: 11px; fill: none; stroke: var(--accent); stroke-width: 1.5; }
5400
5401  .review-text {
5402    font-size: 13.5px;
5403    line-height: 1.85;
5404    color: #3a3a3a;
5405    font-style: italic;
5406  }
5407
5408  .review-text::before { content: '\201C'; color: var(--border-dark); }
5409  .review-text::after  { content: '\201D'; color: var(--border-dark); }
5410
5411  /* ── WHO SHOULD READ ─────────────────────────────────── */
5412  .who-section {
5413    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5414    border-top: none;
5415    background: var(--cream);
5416    padding: 28px 32px;
5417  }
5418
5419  .who-grid {
5420    display: grid;
5421    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;
5422    gap: 10px;
5423    margin-top: 0;
5424  }
5425
5426  .who-card {
5427    background: #fff;
5428    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5429    padding: 16px 18px;
5430    display: flex;
5431    gap: 12px;
5432    align-items: flex-start;
5433  }
5434
5435  .who-icon {
5436    font-size: 18px;
5437    flex-shrink: 0;

5438    margin-top: 1px;
5439  }
5440
5441  .who-text {
5442    font-size: 13px;
5443    line-height: 1.7;
5444    color: #3a3a3a;
5445  }
5446
5447  /* ── SIMILAR READS ───────────────────────────────────── */
5448  .similar-section {
5449    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5450    border-top: none;
5451    background: #fff;
5452    padding: 28px 32px;
5453  }
5454
5455  .similar-list {
5456    display: grid;
5457    grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr 1fr;
5458    gap: 12px;
5459  }
5460
5461  .similar-item {
5462    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5463    background: var(--cream);
5464    padding: 14px 16px;
5465    display: flex;
5466    flex-direction: column;
5467    gap: 4px;
5468  }
5469
5470  .similar-title {
5471    font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;
5472    font-size: 16px;
5473    font-style: italic;
5474    font-weight: 400;
5475    color: var(--text);
5476    line-height: 1.3;
5477  }
5478
5479  .similar-author {
5480    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
5481    font-size: 7.5px;
5482    letter-spacing: 1px;
5483    text-transform: uppercase;
5484    color: var(--text-muted);
5485  }
5486
5487  .similar-reason {
5488    font-size: 12px;
5489    color: #5a5a5a;
5490    margin-top: 4px;
5491    line-height: 1.5;
5492  }
5493
5494  /* ── SERIES BANNER ───────────────────────────────────── */
5495  .series-banner {
5496    border: 1px solid var(--border);
5497    border-top: none;
5498    background: #fff;
5499    padding: 24px 32px;
5500    overflow-x: auto;
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5677
5678<div class="page-wrap">
5679
5680  <div class="section-heading fade-1">
5681    <span>Book Review</span>
5682  </div>
5683
5684  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
5685    <div class="cover-side">
5686      <div class="cover-wrap">
5687        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1771433829i/240019558.jpg" alt="The Women in White by Sarah Pekkanen">
5688      </div>
5689      <div class="stars">
5690        <svg class="star"

5690 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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5692        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
5693        <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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5695      </div>
5696      <p class="rating-text">My Rating<br>4 / 5 Stars</p>
5697      <div class="series-badge">NetGalley ARC<br>Out August 4, 2026</div>
5698    </div>
5699
5700    <div class="content-side">
5701      <p class="book-meta">Sarah Pekkanen • NetGalley ARC • St. Martin's Press</p>
5702      <h1 class="book-title">The <em>Women</em> in White</h1>
5703      <p class="book-author">by Sarah Pekkanen</p>
5704      <p class="synopsis-short">
5705        A cool mix of historical mystery and creepy parapsychology. When Riley flees a fractured marriage to look after an elderly widow in a home entirely frozen in the 1960s, she uncovers an unsettling link to a series of disturbing university psychic experiments that should have stayed buried.
5706      </p>
5707      <div class="tags">
5708        <span class="tag">Thriller</span>
5709        <span class="tag">Historical Mystery</span>
5710        <span class="tag">Paranormal Elements</span>
5711        <span class="tag">Speculative Sci-Fi</span>
5712        <span class="tag">Dual Timeline</span>
5713      </div>
5714      <div class="info-row">
5715        <div class="info-item">
5716          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
5717          <span class="info-value">304</span>
5718        </div>
5719        <div class="info-item">
5720          <span class="info-label">Format</span>
5721          <span class="info-value">Advance Copy</span>
5722        </div>
5723        <div class="info-item">
5724          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
5725          <span class="info-value">St. Martin's</span>
5726        </div>
5727      </div>
5728    </div>
5729  </div>
5730
5731  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Review</span></div>
5732  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
5733    <p>This is my second solo book by Sarah Pekkanen, and it was pretty good! I've read all of her thrillers co-authored with Greer Hendricks and absolutely loved those, so picking this one up was a total no-brainer for me. This story is such a cool mix of a historical mystery, a creepy thriller, and some wild sci-fi/paranormal elements inspired by real-life 1960s psychic experiments.</p>
5734    <p>The story hops between two timelines. In the 1960s, you follow four young women who get caught up in some really disturbing university parapsychology experiments. In the modern day, you have Riley, a woman running away from a bad marriage, who takes a job caretaking for Betty, an elderly widow whose house is completely frozen in the 1960s (no internet, no microwave, nothing!).</p>
5735    <p>I got sucked into this story immediately. The pacing is quick, with short chapters and great cliffhangers that make you want to keep reading "just one more chapter." The absolute best part of the book is the character development. I completely fell in love with Betty! She is such a standout character and was definitely my favorite part of the modern timeline. The bond between the four women in the past is also beautiful, and watching their friendship grow while dealing with a super creepy, sinister villain was unforgettable. Riley is a good main character, too, though sometimes she didn't ask the obvious questions you'd expect someone to ask.</p>
5736    <p>There are definitely some fun twists and turns, but the ending didn't tie everything together perfectly for me. I still have a few remaining questions after turning the final page, and things felt a little bit rushed.</p>
5737    <p>Still, if you like authors like Simone St. James or Alice Feeney, you will love the creepy, suspenseful atmosphere of this one. It's a super unique, fast-paced thriller that keeps you hooked from page one. Highly recommend picking this one up!</p>
5738  </div>
5739
5740  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
5741    <p>The absolute best part of the book is the character development. I completely fell in love with Betty! She is such a standout character and was definitely my favorite part of the modern timeline.</p>
5742    <cite>— Book Obsessed Introverts</cite>
5743  </div>
5744
5745  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
5746  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
5747    <div class="detail-block">
5748      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
5749      <ul>
5750        <li>A fast-paced thriller laced with 1960s parapsychology</li>
5751        <li>A gorgeously depicted historical timeline of sisterhood</li>
5752        <li>A highly unique setting inside a house frozen out of time</li>
5753        <li>A deeply sinister, unforgettable scientific villain</li>
5754      </ul>
5755    </div>
5756    <div class="detail-block">
5757      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
5758      <div>
5759        <span class="cw-tag">Unethical Experimentation</span>
5760        <span class="cw-tag">Psychological Distress</span>
5761        <span class="cw-tag">Emotional Abuse</span>
5762        <span class="cw-tag">Marital Strain (Referenced)</span>
5763      </div>
5764    </div>
5765    <div class="detail-block">
5766      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
5767      <p>Yes. This is completely self-contained, presenting a single mystery that concludes across both timelines within the final pages.</p>
5768    </div>
5769    <div class="detail-block">
5770      <h3>Romance Level</h3>
5771      <p>Low to none. The central themes focus heavily on survival, female alliances, and uncovering psychological manipulation over romantic pairings.</p>
5772    </div>
5773  </div>
5774
5775  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
5776  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
5777    <div class="trope-row">
5778      <span class="trope-name">Dual Timeline</span>
5779      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:95%"></div></div>
5780      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
5781    </div>
5782    <div class="trope-row">
5783      <span class="trope-name">Creepy Atmosphere</span>
5784      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:90%"></div></div>
5785      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
5786    </div>
5787    <div class="trope-row">
5788      <span class="trope-name">Sci-Fi/Paranormal</span>
5789      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:75%"></div></div>
5790      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
5791    </div>
5792    <div class="trope-row">
5793      <span class="trope-name">House Frozen in Time</span>
5794      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:85%"></div></div>
5795      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
5796    </div>
5797    <div class="trope-row">
5798      <span class="trope-name">Ending Wrap-up</span>
5799      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:60%"></div></div>
5800      <span class="trope-level">Rushed</span>
5801    </div>
5802  </div>
5803
5804  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
5805  <div class="who-section fade-5">
5806    <div class="who-grid">
5807      <div class="who-card">
5808        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
5809        <span class="who-text">Readers who love chilling speculative thrillers by authors like Simone St. James or Alice Feeney.</span>
5810      </div>
5811      <div class="who-card">
5812        <span class="who-icon">⏳</span>
5813        <span class="who-text">Anyone who appreciates an immersive dual-timeline story with cliffhangers that keep you reading.</span>
5814      </div>
5815      <div class="who-card">
5816        <span class="who-icon">👵</span>
5817        <span class="who-text">Fans of exceptional character development who appreciate unforgettable, standout side characters like Betty.</span>
5818      </div>
5819      <div class="who-card">
5820        <span class="who-icon">🌿</span>
5821        <span class="who-text">People who love tracking a strong, beautifully developed bond of friendship among women facing dark odds.</span>
5822      </div>
5823    </div>
5824  </div>
5825
5826  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
5827  <div class="similar-section fade-5">
5828    <div class="similar-list">
5829      <div class="similar-item">
5830        <span class="similar-title">The Book of Cold Cases</span>
5831        <span class="similar-author">Simone St. James</span>
5832        <span class="similar-reason">A chilling, fast-paced dive into old dark history and unexplainable elements.</span>
5833      </div>
5834      <div class="similar-item">
5835        <span class="similar-title">Rock Paper Scissors</span>
5836        <span class="similar-author">Alice Feeney</span>
5837        <span class="similar-reason">A highly suspenseful atmosphere packed with distinct timeline puzzles and secrets.</span>
5838      </div>
5839      <div class="similar-item">
5840        <span class="similar-title">The Broken Girls</span>
5841        <span class="similar-author">Simone St. James</span>
5842        <span class="similar-reason">Traces an old institution's historical sins alongside a modern investigation.</span>
5843      </div>
5844    </div>
5845  </div>
5846
5847  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>Sarah Pekkanen Latest Solo Releases</span></div>
5848  <div class="series-banner fade-6">
5849    <div class="series-timeline">
5850      <div class="series-book">
5851        <p class="series-num">Novel 1</p>
5852        <p class="series-title">Gone Tonight</p>
5853        <p class="series-year">2023</p>
5854      </div>
5855      <div class="series-book">
5856        <p class="series-num">Novel 2</p>
5857        <p class="series-title">House of Glass</p>
5858        <p class="series-year">2024</p>
5859      </div>
5860      <div class="series-book">
5861        <p class="series-num">Novel 3</p>
5862        <p class="series-title">The Locked Ward</p>
5863        <p class="series-year">2025</p>
5864      </div>
5865      <div class="series-book active">
5866        <p class="series-num">Novel 4</p>
5867        <p class="series-title">The Women in White</p>
5868        <p class="series-year">2026</p>
5869      </div>
5870    </div>
5871  </div>
5872
5873  <div class="cta-banner fade-6">
5874    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
5875    <h2 class="cta-headline">Craving Your <em>Next Great Read</em>?</h2>
5876    <p class="cta-body">
5877      Don't stop here! We have a whole library of spoiler-free thriller spotlights, hidden gem recommendations, and seasonal reading guides curated specifically for introverted bookworms. Head back to the blog feed to find your next favorite book.
5878    </p>
5879    <div class="cta-buttons">
5880      <a class="btn btn-primary" href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com" target="_blank"><span>Explore Our Blog</span></a>
5881      <a class="btn btn-secondary" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/240019558-the-women-in-white" target="_blank"><span>Add to Goodreads</span></a>
5882    </div>
5883  </div>
5884
5885  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
5886    <p>

5886Spotlight by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
5887    <a href="https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/search/label/Mystery&Thriller" target="_blank">Browse more Mystery & Thriller reviews →</a>
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5891
5892<div style="max-width: 860px; margin: 20px auto 0; font-family: 'Readex Pro', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: #555; line-height: 1.6; font-style: italic; padding: 0 32px;">
5893  Thank you to St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are my honest and unbiased opinions.
5894&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/9222124556076096875/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/the-women-in-white-by-sarah-pekkanen.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/9222124556076096875'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/9222124556076096875'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/the-women-in-white-by-sarah-pekkanen.html' title='The Women in White by Sarah Pekkanen'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDU5cwvFU7CatGmgsLSzHILW7cN5_3QQGtwCr44iDtaYne892r6WDGWwWgstP0D7YI22RO9GpzEJRK6yH-A2l_gC755qKvLlzV7GVjbggmiQ1AnfcGpa9x3bDRiK2DA5Njm6RJ2pBcqcYo9WpYgs6gaiMsQMLFY1YbyEONfPrHVMFvp12MFVJ_0dZXHZg/s1600/pexels-ekaterina-swiss-3802271-7902687.jpg&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-6038417305175410744</id><published>2026-05-01T15:49:00.008-06:00</published><updated>2026-05-01T21:04:16.102-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>April 2026 | Wrap-up | An Introvert Reads</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOTDBDhy8X2uOMhVYw1qYtYYesj4jcKDDTQTo6p0e8dl-XcSZPeXZAw_vhc-OUDxynnqCnB3c2eG1gBUSpLL2f1cnOJPRc9xZfO5DfaC6cYsy6zGt09R3z_WWCjF-6hitWlSw0euYVDgmkHQZfulnDrMIMHgLrrHUtlpnohm5qyQX8gtrlhFO0QaHiM4/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20March.png
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5898
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5903&lt;meta name=&quot;viewport&quot; content=&quot;width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0&quot;&gt;
5904&lt;title&gt;April Wrap-Up — Book Obsessed Introverts&lt;/title&gt;
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5930  .page-wrap {
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5934
5935  /* ── Animations ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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5948  /* ── Section headings ────────────────────────────────── */
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5991
5992  /* ── INTRO HERO ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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6050    position: relative;
6051  }
6052
6053  /* ── STATS BAR ───────────────────────────────────────── */
6054  .stats-bar {
6055    border: 1px solid var(--border);
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6083
6084  /* ── QUICK OVERVIEW TABLE ────────────────────────────── */
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6086    border: 1px solid var(--border);
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6149    color: var(--accent);
6150    text-align: right;
6151  }
6152
6153  /* ── BOOK CARD ───────────────────────────────────────── */
6154  .book-entry {
6155    margin-top: 60px;
6156  }
6157  .book-entry:first-of-type { margin-top: 0; }
6158
6159  .book-card {
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6187
6188  .stars-wrap {
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6205
6206  .content-side {
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6285    color: var(--text);
6286  }
6287
6288  /* ── SYNOPSIS BLOCK ──────────────────────────────────── */
6289  .synopsis-block {
6290    border: 1px solid var(--border);
6291    border-top: none;
6292    background: #fff;
6293    padding: 28px 32px;
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6295  .synopsis-block p {
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6299    margin-bottom: 14px;
6300  }
6301  .synopsis-block p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
6302
6303  /* ── MY THOUGHTS ─────────────────────────────────────── */
6304  .thoughts-block {
6305    border: 1px solid var(--border);
6306    border-top: none;
6307    background: var(--cream);
6308    padding: 28px 32px;
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6310  .thoughts-block p {
6311    font-size: 14px;
6312    line-height: 1.95;
6313    color: #3a3a3a;
6314    margin-bottom: 14px;
6315  }
6316  .thoughts-block p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
6317
6318  /* ── VERDICT STRIP ───────────────────────────────────── */
6319  .verdict-strip {
6320    border: 1px solid var(--border);
6321    border-top: 3px solid var(--accent);
6322    background: #fff;
6323    padding: 18px 28px;
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6325    align-items: center;
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6327    gap: 20px;
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6329  }
6330  .verdict-left {
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6332    flex-direction: column;
6333    gap: 4px;
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6335  .verdict-eyebrow {
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6337    font-size: 8px;
6338    letter-spacing: 2px;
6339    text-transform: uppercase;
6340    color: var(--text-muted);
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6342  .verdict-text {
6343    font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;
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6345    font-style: italic;
6346    color: var(--accent);
6347  }
6348  .verdict-stars {
6349    display: flex;
6350    gap: 4px;
6351    align-items: center;
6352  }
6353  .vstar { width: 16px; height: 16px; fill: var(--accent); }
6354  .vstar-e { width: 16px; height: 16px; fill: none; stroke: var(--accent); stroke-width: 1.5; }
6355  .verdict-rating-label {
6356    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
6357    font-size: 8px;
6358    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
6359    text-transform: uppercase;
6360    color: var(--text-muted);
6361    margin-left: 8px;
6362  }
6363
6364  /* ── DIVIDER ─────────────────────────────────────────── */
6365  .book-divider {
6366    margin: 56px 0;
6367    display: flex;
6368    align-items: center;
6369    gap: 16px;
6370  }
6371  .book-divider::before,
6372  .book-divider::after {
6373    content: '';
6374    flex: 1;
6375    height: 1px;
6376    background: var(--border-dark);
6377  }
6378  .book-divider span {
6379    font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;
6380    font-size: 20px;
6381    color: var(--border-dark);
6382  }
6383
6384  /* ── FINAL WRAP ──────────────────────────────────────── */
6385  .final-thoughts {
6386    border: 1px solid var(--border);
6387    background: #fff;
6388    padding: 36px 36px;
6389    margin-top: 0;
6390  }
6391  .final-thoughts p {
6392    font-size: 14px;
6393    line-height: 1.95;
6394    color: #3a3a3a;
6395    margin-bottom: 14px;
6396  }
6397  .final-thoughts p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }
6398
6399  /* ── CTA BANNER ──────────────────────────────────────── */
6400  .cta-banner {
6401    border: 1px solid var(--border);
6402    border-top: 3px solid var(--accent);
6403    background: var(--cream);
6404    padding: 36px 32px;
6405    text-align: center;
6406    margin-top: 0;
6407    border-top-color: var(--accent);
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6409  .cta-eyebrow {
6410    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
6411    font-size: 9px;
6412    letter-spacing: 2.5px;
6413    text-transform: uppercase;
6414    color: var(--text-muted);
6415    margin-bottom: 12px;
6416  }
6417  .cta-headline {
6418    font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;
6419    font-size: 34px;
6420    font-weight: 300;
6421    font-style: italic;
6422    color: var(--text);
6423    margin-bottom: 14px;
6424    line-height: 1.2;
6425  }
6426  .cta-headline em { color: var(--accent); font-style: normal; }
6427  .cta-body {
6428    font-size: 14px;
6429    line-height: 1.8;
6430    color: #3a3a3a;
6431    max-width: 520px;
6432    margin: 0 auto 26px;
6433  }
6434  .cta-buttons {
6435    display: flex;
6436    gap: 12px;
6437    justify-content: center;
6438    flex-wrap: wrap;
6439  }
6440  .cta-buttons a.btn {
6441    text-decoration: none;
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6446    letter-spacing: 2px;
6447    text-transform: uppercase;
6448    padding: 16px 28px;
6449    display: block;
6450    line-height: 1;
6451    cursor: pointer;
6452    transition: background 0.3s, color 0.3s;
6453  }
6454  .cta-buttons a.btn-primary span {
6455    background: var(--accent);
6456    color: #fff;
6457    border: 1px solid var(--accent);
6458  }
6459  .cta-buttons a.btn-secondary span {
6460    background: transparent;
6461    color: var(--text);
6462    border: 1px solid var(--border-dark);
6463  }
6464  .cta-buttons a.btn-primary:hover span { background: #4e3528; }
6465  .cta-buttons a.btn-secondary:hover span { background: var(--tag-hover); color: var(--accent); }
6466
6467  /* ── FOOTER ──────────────────────────────────────────── */
6468  .footer-stripe {
6469    border: 1px solid var(--border);
6470    border-top: none;
6471    background: #fff;
6472    padding: 14px 32px;
6473    display: flex;
6474    align-items: center;
6475    justify-content: space-between;
6476    flex-wrap: wrap;
6477    gap: 10px;
6478  }
6479  .footer-stripe p {
6480    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
6481    font-size: 8.5px;
6482    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
6483    text-transform: uppercase;
6484    color: var(--text-muted);
6485  }
6486  .footer-stripe a {
6487    font-family: 'Lexend Mega', sans-serif;
6488    font-size: 8.5px;
6489    letter-spacing: 1.5px;
6490    text-transform: uppercase;
6491    color: var(--accent);
6492    text-decoration: none;
6493  }
6494  .footer-stripe a:hover { text-decoration: underline; }
6495
6496  /* ── RESPONSIVE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
6497  @media (max-width: 640px) {
6498    .intro-title { font-size: 44px; }
6499    .stats-bar { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; }

6500    .stat-item:nth-child(2) { border-right: none; }
6501    .stat-item:nth-child(3) { border-top: 1px solid var(--border); }
6502    .stat-item:nth-child(4) { border-top: 1px solid var(--border); border-right: none; }
6503    .overview-row { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; gap: 6px; }
6504    .overview-row .ov-genre, .overview-row .ov-verdict { display: none; }
6505    .book-card { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }
6506    .cover-side { border-right: none; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--border); }
6507    .book-title { font-size: 34px; }
6508    .info-row { grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr; }
6509    .footer-stripe { flex-direction: column; text-align: center; }
6510  }
6511</style>
6512</head>
6513<body>
6514<div class="page-wrap">
6515
6516  <!-- ══ LABEL ════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6517  <div class="section-heading fade-1">
6518    <span>Monthly Wrap-Up</span>
6519  </div>
6520
6521  <!-- ══ INTRO HERO ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
6522  <div class="intro-hero fade-2">
6523    <p class="intro-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts • 2026</p>
6524    <h1 class="intro-title"><em>April</em> Wrap-Up</h1>
6525    <p class="intro-subtitle">Five books, a lot of feelings, and zero regrets</p>
6526    <p class="intro-body">April is one of my busiest month's of the year, yet I was still able to crush five books! I hit my goal, found two new absolute favourites, and even the three-star read served its purpose. We've got thrillers, romance, romantic suspense, and one book that made me ugly cry in the best possible way. Let's get into it.</p>
6527  </div>
6528
6529  <!-- ══ STATS BAR ════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6530  <div class="stats-bar fade-2">
6531    <div class="stat-item">
6532      <div class="stat-number">5</div>
6533      <div class="stat-label">Books Read</div>
6534    </div>
6535    <div class="stat-item">
6536      <div class="stat-number">3</div>
6537      <div class="stat-label">Five Stars</div>
6538    </div>
6539    <div class="stat-item">
6540      <div class="stat-number">1</div>
6541      <div class="stat-label">Four Stars</div>
6542    </div>
6543    <div class="stat-item">
6544      <div class="stat-number">1</div>
6545      <div class="stat-label">Three Stars</div>
6546    </div>
6547  </div>
6548
6549  <!-- ══ OVERVIEW TABLE ═══════════════════════════════════ -->
6550  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>At a Glance</span></div>
6551  <div class="overview-table fade-3">
6552    <div class="overview-row header">
6553      <span>Title / Author</span>
6554      <span>Genre</span>
6555      <span>Rating</span>
6556      <span style="text-align:right;">Verdict</span>
6557    </div>
6558    <div class="overview-row">
6559      <div>
6560        <div class="ov-title">Beautiful Ugly</div>
6561        <div class="ov-author">Alice Feeney</div>
6562      </div>
6563      <span class="ov-genre">Thriller</span>
6564      <div class="ov-stars">
6565        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6566        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6567        <svg class="s"

6567 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6568        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6569        <svg class="se" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6570      </div>
6571      <span class="ov-verdict">Loved It</span>
6572    </div>
6573    <div class="overview-row">
6574      <div>
6575        <div class="ov-title">Say You'll Remember Me</div>
6576        <div class="ov-author">Abby Jimenez</div>
6577      </div>
6578      <span class="ov-genre">Romance</span>
6579      <div class="ov-stars">
6580        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6581        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6582        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6583        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6584        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6585      </div>
6586      <span class="ov-verdict">Favourite</span>
6587    </div>
6588    <div class="overview-row">
6589      <div>
6590        <div class="ov-title">What Have You Done?</div>
6591        <div class="ov-author">Shari Lapena</div>
6592      </div>
6593      <span class="ov-genre">Mystery</span>
6594      <div class="ov-stars">
6595        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6596        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6597        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6598        <svg class="se"

6598 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6599        <svg class="se" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6600      </div>
6601      <span class="ov-verdict">It Was Ok</span>
6602    </div>
6603    <div class="overview-row">
6604      <div>
6605        <div class="ov-title">Family Lies</div>
6606        <div class="ov-author">Karen Rose</div>
6607      </div>
6608      <span class="ov-genre">Rom. Suspense</span>
6609      <div class="ov-stars">
6610        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6611        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6612        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6613        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6614        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6615      </div>
6616      <span class="ov-verdict">Favourite</span>
6617    </div>
6618    <div class="overview-row">
6619      <div>
6620        <div class="ov-title">Atmosphere</div>
6621        <div class="ov-author">Taylor Jenkins Reid</div>
6622      </div>
6623      <span class="ov-genre">Hist. Fiction</span>
6624      <div class="ov-stars">
6625        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6626        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6627        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6628        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6629        <svg class="s" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6630      </div>
6631      <span class="ov-verdict">Favourite</span>
6632    </div>
6633  </div>
6634
6635  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6636  <!-- BOOK 1: BEAUTIFUL UGLY                              -->
6637  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6638  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book One</span></div>
6639  <div class="book-entry fade-4">
6640    <div class="book-card">
6641      <div class="cover-side">
6642        <div class="cover-wrap">
6643          <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/812ehSCKkjL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney">
6644        </div>
6645        <div class="stars-wrap">
6646          <svg class="star"

6646 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6647          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6648          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6649          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6650          <svg class="star-empty" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6651        </div>
6652        <p class="rating-text">4 / 5 Stars</p>
6653      </div>
6654      <div class="content-side">
6655        <p class="book-meta">Alice Feeney • Flatiron Books • January 2025</p>
6656        <h2 class="book-title"><em>Beautiful</em> Ugly</h2>
6657        <p class="book-author">by Alice Feeney</p>
6658        <p class="book-tagline">Dark, atmospheric, and deliciously twisty, a gothic thriller you won't see coming.</p>
6659        <div class="tags">
6660          <span class="tag">Psychological Thriller</span>
6661          <span class="tag">Unreliable Narrator</span>
6662          <span class="tag">Gothic Atmosphere</span>
6663          <span class="tag">Missing Person</span>
6664        </div>
6665        <div class="info-row">
6666          <div class="info-item">
6667            <div class="info-label">Pages</div>
6668            <div class="info-value">320</div>
6669          </div>
6670          <div class="info-item">
6671            <div class="info-label">Setting</div>
6672            <div class="info-value">Scotland</div>
6673          </div>
6674          <div class="info-item">
6675            <div class="info-label">Heat Level</div>
6676            <div class="info-value">None</div>
6677          </div>
6678        </div>
6679      </div>
6680    </div>
6681
6682    <div class="synopsis-block">
6683      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>The Story</span></div>
6684      <p>Author Grady Green is having the worst best day of his life. He calls his wife Abby as she's driving home to share some exciting news, when suddenly he hears her slam on the brakes, get out of the car, and then silence. When he finds her car abandoned at the edge of a cliff, the headlights still on and her phone left behind, Abby is simply gone.</p>
6685      <p>A year later, grief-stricken and unable to write, Grady travels to a remote, isolated island off the coast of Scotland on the advice of his agent. The island has no phone reception, no internet, and barely any residents. It was once home to another reclusive author who died under mysterious circumstances, leaving his best manuscript unfinished. Grady is supposed to find peace and inspiration there. Instead, he starts to unravel.</p>
6686      <p>Strange things happen on the island. And then Grady thinks he sees his wife. Told through dual narrators, Grady on the island and Abby speaking to her therapist a week before she disappeared, this story is a maze of mistrust, grief, and dark secrets that twists all the way to a jaw-dropping conclusion.</p>
6687    </div>
6688
6689    <div class="thoughts-block">
6690      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>My Thoughts</span></div>
6691      <p>

6691I’ve been a fan of Alice Feeney for a while, and the Scottish island setting in this one really does a lot of heavy lifting. It feels so claustrophobic and eerie in the best way, and I was hooked on the atmosphere almost right away. She’s also so good at making you question everything, and the dual narrators kept me slightly off-balance the whole time.</p>
6692      <p>That said, I’ll be honest, there were a few spots in the middle where things slowed down a bit for me. And while the twist definitely caught me off guard, it did take a little bit of “just go with it” to fully buy in.</p>
6693      <p>But honestly, those are pretty minor things in what was still a really gripping read. I had no idea where it was going, and that final reveal genuinely threw me. Four stars feels spot on, super solid thriller that I’d absolutely recommend, even if it’s not totally flawless.</p>
6694    </div>
6695
6696    <div class="verdict-strip">
6697      <div class="verdict-left">
6698        <span class="verdict-eyebrow">Final Verdict</span>
6699        <span class="verdict-text">Pretty good, very atmospheric</span>
6700      </div>
6701      <div style="display:flex;align-items:center;">
6702        <svg class="vstar"

6702 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6703        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6704        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6705        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6706        <svg class="vstar-e" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6707        <span class="verdict-rating-label">4 of 5</span>
6708      </div>
6709    </div>
6710  </div>
6711
6712  <div class="book-divider fade-4"><span>✦</span></div>
6713
6714  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6715  <!-- BOOK 2: SAY YOU'LL REMEMBER ME                      -->
6716  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6717  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Two</span></div>
6718  <div class="book-entry fade-4">
6719    <div class="book-card">
6720      <div class="cover-side">
6721        <div class="cover-wrap">
6722          <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81S0JUas9LL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez">
6723        </div>
6724        <div class="stars-wrap">
6725          <svg class="star"

6725 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6726          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6727          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6728          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6729          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6730        </div>
6731        <p class="rating-text">5 / 5 Stars</p>
6732      </div>
6733      <div class="content-side">
6734        <p class="book-meta">Abby Jimenez • Forever • April 2025</p>
6735        <h2 class="book-title"><em>Say You'll</em> Remember Me</h2>
6736        <p class="book-author">by Abby Jimenez</p>
6737        <p class="book-tagline">Swoony, emotional, and impossible to put down.</p>
6738        <div class="tags">
6739          <span class="tag">Contemporary Romance</span>
6740          <span class="tag">Long Distance</span>
6741          <span class="tag">Slow Burn</span>
6742          <span class="tag">Found Family</span>
6743          <span class="tag">Dementia</span>
6744        </div>
6745        <div class="info-row">
6746          <div class="info-item">
6747            <div class="info-label">Pages</div>
6748            <div class="info-value">368</div>
6749          </div>
6750          <div class="info-item">
6751            <div class="info-label">Setting</div>
6752            <div class="info-value">Minnesota / CA</div>
6753          </div>
6754          <div class="info-item">
6755            <div class="info-label">Heat Level</div>
6756            <div class="info-value">Warm</div>
6757          </div>
6758        </div>
6759      </div>
6760    </div>
6761
6762    <div class="synopsis-block">
6763      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>The Story</span></div>
6764      <p>There's no such thing as a perfect guy, but Xavier Rush comes dangerously close. A gorgeous veterinarian who gives Greek god vibes, he asks Samantha out on what turns out to be the most incredible first date of her life: a sunset cruise, an escape room, rescue pets, and the kind of connection that feels impossible to walk away from.</p>
6765      <p>Except Samantha has to walk away. Her mother has been diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer's, and her family needs her back in California. Two thousand miles away. She asks Xavier to forget her, to hold onto their perfect night as exactly that, a perfect memory. But Xavier isn't built that way. He boards planes. He sends messages. He refuses to let distance make the decision for them.</p>
6766      <p>What follows is an emotional, funny, and deeply human love story about two peo

6766ple fighting to make something work against every possible odd, family crises, long distance, and the painful reality of caring for someone you're watching disappear. Abby Jimenez handles all of it with grace, heart, and the kind of characters you genuinely root for with everything you have.</p>
6767    </div>
6768
6769    <div class="thoughts-block">
6770      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>My Thoughts</span></div>
6771      <p>Okay, five stars was not even a question for me! Abby Jimenez somehow manages to write romances that feel both wildly swoony and deeply real, and this one might be her best yet. Xavier is the kind of male lead you genuinely believe in, and Samantha's loyalty to her family felt so authentic and relatable without ever making her feel like a martyr.</p>
6772      <p>What really got me was how honestly Jimenez portrays caregiving and Alzheimer's. It doesn't shy away from how exhausting and heartbreaking it is, which made the romance feel all the more earned. Every stolen moment between Xavier and Samantha hit differently because of the weight surrounding them. I laughed, I cried, and I immediately started recommending it to every person I know. If you read one romance this year, make it this one.</p>
6773    </div>
6774
6775    <div class="verdict-strip">
6776      <div class="verdict-left">
6777        <span class="verdict-eyebrow">Final Verdict</span>
6778        <span class="verdict-text">Absolute favourite, emotional perfection</span>
6779      </div>
6780      <div style="display:flex;align-items:center;">
6781        <svg class="vstar"

6781 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6782        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6783        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6784        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6785        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6786        <span class="verdict-rating-label">5 of 5</span>
6787      </div>
6788    </div>
6789  </div>
6790
6791  <div class="book-divider fade-4"><span>✦</span></div>
6792
6793  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6794  <!-- BOOK 3: WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?                         -->
6795  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6796  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Book Three</span></div>
6797  <div class="book-entry fade-5">
6798    <div class="book-card">
6799      <div class="cover-side">
6800        <div class="cover-wrap">
6801          <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Pu38GBQNL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="What Have You Done? by Shari Lapena">
6802        </div>
6803        <div class="stars-wrap">
6804          <svg class="star"

6804 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6805          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6806          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6807          <svg class="star-empty" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6808          <svg class="star-empty" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6809        </div>
6810        <p class="rating-text">3 / 5 Stars</p>
6811      </div>
6812      <div class="content-side">
6813        <p class="book-meta">Shari Lapena • Doubleday Canada • July 2024</p>
6814        <h2 class="book-title"><em>What Have</em> You Done?</h2>
6815        <p class="book-author">by Shari Lapena</p>
6816        <p class="book-tagline">A small-town murder with secrets at every turn, classic Lapena, solid and suspenseful.</p>
6817        <div class="tags">
6818          <span class="tag">Mystery</span>
6819          <span class="tag">Small Town</span>
6820          <span class="tag">YA-Adjacent</span>
6821          <span class="tag">Multiple POVs</span>
6822          <span class="tag">Red Herrings</span>
6823        </div>
6824        <div class="info-row">
6825          <div class="info-item">
6826            <div class="info-label">Pages</div>
6827            <div class="info-value">336</div>
6828          </div>
6829          <div class="info-item">
6830            <div class="info-label">Setting</div>
6831            <div class="info-value">Vermont</div>
6832          </div>
6833          <div class="info-item">
6834            <div class="info-label">Standalone</div>
6835            <div class="info-value">Yes</div>
6836          </div>
6837        </div>
6838      </div>
6839    </div>
6840
6841    <div class="synopsis-block">
6842      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>The Story</span></div>
6843      <p>Nothing ever happens in sleepy little Fairhill, Vermont. The teenagers spend their Friday nights in the old graveyard telling ghost stories. Front doors stay unlocked. Everyone knows everyone. Until the morning a local farmer finds seventeen-year-old Diana Brewer's body in his hayfield, discovered by vultures, and the town is turned completely upside down.</p>
6844      <p>Diana was beloved. She was also about to break up with her controlling boyfriend Cameron, a fact known only to her closest friend Riley. Now everyone is a suspect: the jealous ex-boyfriend, a teacher with a troubling history, a creepy regular from her job. As the police close in, secrets begin to surface, and the town of Fairhill, once quiet and trusting,becomes a landscape of paranoia and fear.</p>
6845      <p>Told across multiple points of view, including, in an unusual narrative choice, from Diana herself watching over the town from beyond, this is a small-town mystery that asks: how well do you really know the people closest to you?</p>
6846    </div>
6847
6848    <div class="thoughts-block">
6849      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>My Thoughts</span></div>
6850      <p>Three stars for this one, which for me means it was solidly fine, I finished it, I was entertained, but I wasn't wowed. Shari Lapena is such a reliable thriller writer and the bones here are good. The small town atmosphere works, the cast of suspects is broad enough to keep you guessing, and the pacing in the final third picks up nicely.</p>
6851      <p>My main issue was that this felt a little different to her usual style, the teen POVs and the supernatural element of Diana narrating from the beyond leaned more YA than I expected, and that threw me slightly. If you've read a lot of Lapena, you may also find the structure familiar. That said, if you're newer to her work or just want a quick, digestible mystery that delivers on its promise, this absolutely hits the spot. Not her best, but still a solid Lapena read.</p>
6852    </div>
6853
6854    <div class="verdict-strip">
6855      <div class="verdict-left">
6856        <span class="verdict-eyebrow">Final Verdict</span>
6857        <span class="verdict-text">Solid but not her best work</span>
6858      </div>
6859      <div style="display:flex;align-items:center;">
6860        <svg class="vstar"

6860 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6861        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6862        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6863        <svg class="vstar-e" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6864        <svg class="vstar-e" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6865        <span class="verdict-rating-label">3 of 5</span>
6866      </div>
6867    </div>
6868  </div>
6869
6870  <div class="book-divider fade-5"><span>✦</span></div>
6871
6872  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6873  <!-- BOOK 4: FAMILY LIES                                 -->
6874  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6875  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Book Four</span></div>
6876  <div class="book-entry fade-5">
6877    <div class="book-card">
6878      <div class="cover-side">
6879        <div class="cover-wrap">
6880          <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/816SkfuOgcL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Family Lies by Karen Rose">
6881        </div>
6882        <div class="stars-wrap">
6883          <svg class="star"

6883 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6884          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6885          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6886          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6887          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6888        </div>
6889        <p class="rating-text">5 / 5 Stars</p>
6890      </div>
6891      <div class="content-side">
6892        <p class="book-meta">Karen Rose • Berkley • March 2026</p>
6893        <h2 class="book-title"><em>Family</em> Lies</h2>
6894        <p class="book-author">by Karen Rose</p>
6895        <p class="book-tagline">Action-packed from page one, deadly secrets, fierce loyalty, and a plot that never lets up.</p>
6896        <div class="tags">
6897          <span class="tag">Romantic Suspense</span>
6898          <span class="tag">Police Procedural</span>
6899          <span class="tag">Found Family</span>
6900          <span class="tag">Slow Burn Romance</span>
6901          <span class="tag">Series Book 4</span>
6902        </div>
6903        <div class="info-row">
6904          <div class="info-item">
6905            <div class="info-label">Pages</div>
6906            <div class="info-value">528</div>
6907          </div>
6908          <div class="info-item">
6909            <div class="info-label">Setting</div>
6910            <div class="info-value">San Diego</div>
6911          </div>
6912          <div class="info-item">
6913            <div class="info-label">Heat Level</div>
6914            <div class="info-value">Low</div>
6915          </div>
6916        </div>
6917      </div>
6918    </div>
6919
6920    <div class="synopsis-block">
6921      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>The Story</span></div>
6922      <p>As an infant, Kit McKittrick's foster sister Akiko was abandoned at a firehouse. Now 32, Akiko receives an unsettling phone call from a woman named Mary Sherman, who claims to know her birth mother, but refuses to say anything more except in person. Nervous and hopeful in equal measure, Akiko agrees to meet. Kit insists on coming too.</p>
6923      <p>Kit's instincts have always been sharp. Standing on Mary Sherman's doorstep, shots ring out. Kit is hit. And when they push through the door, they find Mary Sherman dead inside the house. Whatever she knew, about Akiko's mother, about the past, she took it with her.</p>
6924      <p>Placed on medical leave and pulled off the case officially, Kit refuses to stand down. With police psychologist Sam Reeves working quietly alongside her, she begins digging into Mary Sherman's background, uncovering connections to a private detective, to Akiko's mentor, and to a web of family secrets that somebody is willing to kill to protect. As more bodies pile up and the danger gets closer to home, Kit begins to wonder: were some truths never meant to come to light?</p>
6925    </div>
6926
6927    <div class="thoughts-block">
6928      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>My Thoughts</span></div>
6929      <p>Karen Rose, you have done it again. I've been reading this series since the beginning and each book somehow raise

6929s the stakes even further. This one is the most personal entry yet because it centres Akiko, who has been a beloved supporting character, and watching her story unfold was genuinely emotional. Rose is brilliant at making you care about every single person in a very large cast.</p>
6930      <p>Kit is one of my favourite protagonists in any ongoing series, she's fierce and protective and constantly walking the line between doing her job and doing what's right, and that tension never gets old. The slow-burn between her and Sam is also doing exactly what I need it to do: building and building with all the patient, agonising restraint of a writer who knows exactly when to deliver. The Japanese family plot threads are complex and required my full attention, but they paid off in a huge way. Five stars without hesitation, and I'm already desperate for book five.</p>
6931    </div>
6932
6933    <div class="verdict-strip">
6934      <div class="verdict-left">
6935        <span class="verdict-eyebrow">Final Verdict</span>
6936        <span class="verdict-text">Absolute favourite, Karen Rose at her finest</span>
6937      </div>
6938      <div style="display:flex;align-items:center;">
6939        <svg class="vstar"

6939 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6940        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6941        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6942        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6943        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6944        <span class="verdict-rating-label">5 of 5</span>
6945      </div>
6946    </div>
6947  </div>
6948
6949  <div class="book-divider fade-6"><span>✦</span></div>
6950
6951  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6952  <!-- BOOK 5: ATMOSPHERE                                  -->
6953  <!-- ════════════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
6954  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6"><span>Book Five</span></div>
6955  <div class="book-entry fade-6">
6956    <div class="book-card">
6957      <div class="cover-side">
6958        <div class="cover-wrap">
6959          <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81b-AdU1TWL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid">
6960        </div>
6961        <div class="stars-wrap">
6962          <svg class="star"

6962 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6963          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6964          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6965          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6966          <svg class="star" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
6967        </div>
6968        <p class="rating-text">5 / 5 Stars</p>
6969      </div>
6970      <div class="content-side">
6971        <p class="book-meta">Taylor Jenkins Reid • Ballantine Books • June 2025</p>
6972        <h2 class="book-title"><em>Atmo</em>sphere</h2>
6973        <p class="book-author">by Taylor Jenkins Reid</p>
6974        <p class="book-tagline">Breathtaking, heartbreaking, and utterly beautiful. Taylor Jenkins Reid at her very best, reaching for the stars.</p>
6975        <div class="tags">
6976          <span class="tag">Historical Fiction</span>
6977          <span class="tag">Sapphic Romance</span>
6978          <span class="tag">1980s NASA</span>
6979          <span class="tag">Female Empowerment</span>
6980          <span class="tag">Found Family</span>
6981        </div>
6982        <div class="info-row">
6983          <div class="info-item">
6984            <div class="info-label">Pages</div>
6985            <div class="info-value">352</div>
6986          </div>
6987          <div class="info-item">
6988            <div class="info-label">Setting</div>
6989            <div class="info-value">1980s Houston</div>
6990          </div>
6991          <div class="info-item">
6992            <div class="info-label">Standalone</div>
6993            <div class="info-value">Yes</div>
6994          </div>
6995        </div>
6996      </div>
6997    </div>
6998
6999    <div class="synopsis-block">
7000      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>The Story</span></div>
7001      <p>Joan Goodwin has been obsessed with the stars for as long as she can remember. A physics and astronomy professor in her thirties, she makes the leap of her life when NASA opens its Space Shuttle program to women for the first time. Joan is selected. She moves to Houston. She trains.</p>
7002      <p>The book opens on December 29, 1984, a NASA shuttle in crisis, oxygen running out, a crew fighting to survive. Then it works backwards, showing us everything that led Joan to that moment: the gruelling training, the impossible pressure of being one of the first women in the program, a found family forged under extreme circumstances, and Vanessa Ford, a pilot-turned-astronaut who unravels every assumption Joan ever made about herself.</p>
7003      <p>What unfolds is a story about ambition and sacrifice, about discovering who you are when the world keeps telling you who you're supposed to be, and about a love that grows slowly and fiercely in the shadow of something far larger than either woman. Told with TJR's signature nonlinear structure, it's a novel that breaks your heart and puts it back together, over and over, until the final breathtaking page.</p>
7004    </div>
7005
7006    <div class="thoughts-block">
7007      <div class="subheading-bar" style="margin-top:0;"><span>My Thoughts</span></div>
7008      <p>

7008I’ll be honest, I didn’t think anything would top The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo for me. Nothing else in general fiction has even come close… until Atmosphere. I can confidently say it actually surpassed it, which is kind of wild for me to admit. That’s honestly the highest praise I can give, especially since I don’t usually reach for general fiction - historical fiction even less.Taylor Jenkins Reid just gets it, the way women hold their ambitions and their love and their grief all at once, the way the most meaningful connections form quietly and then explode into everything.</p>
7009      <p>Joan is not an easy character, but she is an incredibly honest one, and watching her figure herself out in parallel to training for the most extraordinary job in the world was genuinely moving. The sapphic love story is handled with such care, slow, real, complicated by circumstances that feel completely of the era. And the final sequence on the shuttle had me holding my breath in a way that no book has managed in a long time.</p>
7010      <p>If you've read TJR before, this feels like everything she's been building towards. If you haven't, this is an absolutely perfect place to start. Five stars, and I'm already thinking about a reread.</p>
7011    </div>
7012
7013    <div class="verdict-strip">
7014      <div class="verdict-left">
7015        <span class="verdict-eyebrow">Final Verdict</span>
7016        <span class="verdict-text">Masterpiece!</span>
7017      </div>
7018      <div style="display:flex;align-items:center;">
7019        <svg class="vstar"

7019 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
7020        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
7021        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
7022        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
7023        <svg class="vstar" viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
7024        <span class="verdict-rating-label">5 of 5</span>
7025      </div>
7026    </div>
7027  </div>
7028
7029  <!-- ══ FINAL WRAP THOUGHTS ═══════════════════════════════ -->
7030  <div class="subheading-bar fade-6" style="margin-top:60px;"><span>Wrapping Up April</span></div>
7031  <div class="final-thoughts fade-6">
7032    <p>Three five-star reads in one month is pretty rare for me, and I'm still a little giddy about it. Atmosphere and Say You'll Remember Me are both going on my all-time favourites shelf without question, tw

7032o very different books that both left me completely undone in the best way. Family Lies reminded me why I will always, always come back to Karen Rose.</p>
7033    <p>Even the three-star read was worth it, sometimes a perfectly fine thriller is exactly what you need between the heavy hitters. What Have You Done? did its job: kept me occupied, gave me a satisfying conclusion, and sent me straight to the next book.</p>
7034    <p>Already deep into May and the TBR pile is looking extremely dangerous. As always. Let me know in the comments which of these you've read, or if any of them are on your list, I want to talk about all of them!</p>
7035  </div>
7036
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7039    <p class="cta-eyebrow">Book Obsessed Introverts</p>
7040    <h2 class="cta-headline">Want <em>individual spotlights</em>?</h2>
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7048  <!-- ══ FOOTER ════════════════════════════════════════════ -->
7049  <div class="footer-stripe fade-6">
7050    <p>Wrap-Up by Book Obsessed Introverts • bookobsessedintroverts.com</p>
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7054</div>
7055</body>
7056&lt;/html&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/6038417305175410744/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/april-2026-wrap-up-introvert-reads.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/6038417305175410744'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/6038417305175410744'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/05/april-2026-wrap-up-introvert-reads.html' title='April 2026 | Wrap-up | An Introvert Reads'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOTDBDhy8X2uOMhVYw1qYtYYesj4jcKDDTQTo6p0e8dl-XcSZPeXZAw_vhc-OUDxynnqCnB3c2eG1gBUSpLL2f1cnOJPRc9xZfO5DfaC6cYsy6zGt09R3z_WWCjF-6hitWlSw0euYVDgmkHQZfulnDrMIMHgLrrHUtlpnohm5qyQX8gtrlhFO0QaHiM4/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20March.png&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-1852703369169994008</id><published>2026-04-27T18:31:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-04-27T18:31:06.563-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="2026Favorites"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="BeachRead"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ContemporaryRomance"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Featured"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Fiction"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="NewReleases"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Romance"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="RomanticSuspense"/><title type='text'>Pieces of Me by Haley Harris ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;div style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;&quot; border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;4032&quot; data-original-width=&quot;3024&quot; height=&quot;320&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9V7sSx0LeU-61F7jqByvO8AUdiD-mrvDGGvrElXW5ubciaMAt1c31qJhZPLXsBgi5YYo8yK0BwgtrTgAE85oTU5qM16YZCkv66sm08YyCjckwjfNTqUpHh1db3vzKuqQTmj8rM_EHzLYHKC8ki6LB_5laRrDIUK6JBu-BASh8jBjVm78d3QLE3Yz_GTc/s320/IMG_7273.jpeg&quot; /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;WOW! &lt;em&gt;Pieces of Me&lt;/em&gt; by Haley Harris grabbed my attention from the very first page, and I could not put it down.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;My heart ached for Jade, the FMC, who is trying to move forward and stay safe after living through unimaginable trauma ten years ago. Her journey felt emotional, raw, and incredibly compelling. And West? Absolutely swoon-worthy. Every woman deserves to be treated and cherished the way he loves and protects Jade.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;As a mystery romance, this book delivered everything I hoped for. Haley Harris did a phenomenal job of 

7056keeping readers hooked, leaving just enough suspense and intrigue to make it impossible to stop turning the pages. Every chapter left me wanting more, right until the very end.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p class=&quot;isSelectedEnd&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Nothing felt rushed. The pacing was perfect, and the level of detail made it easy to fully experience every emotion and moment alongside the characters.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This book reminded me so much of the emotional storytelling style of Corinne Michaels, one of my favorite authors discovered a few years ago. If this debut series is any indication, Haley Harris may quickly earn a spot on my favorite authors list as well.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: medium;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Thank you to the &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.instagram.com/haleyharrisauthor/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;author &lt;/a&gt;for my digital ARC via &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.lovenotespr.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Love Notes PR&lt;/a&gt; in exchange for a review. As always, my reviews are my own and unbiased opinions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/1852703369169994008/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/pieces-of-me-by-haley-harris-arc-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1852703369169994008'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1852703369169994008'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/pieces-of-me-by-haley-harris-arc-review.html' title='Pieces of Me by Haley Harris ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9V7sSx0LeU-61F7jqByvO8AUdiD-mrvDGGvrElXW5ubciaMAt1c31qJhZPLXsBgi5YYo8yK0BwgtrTgAE85oTU5qM16YZCkv66sm08YyCjckwjfNTqUpHh1db3vzKuqQTmj8rM_EHzLYHKC8ki6LB_5laRrDIUK6JBu-BASh8jBjVm78d3QLE3Yz_GTc/s72-c/IMG_7273.jpeg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-419565998549734620</id><published>2026-04-09T15:01:00.000-06:00</published><updated>2026-04-09T15:01:05.397-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Featured"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Fiction"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="NewReleases"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Romance"/><title type='text'>Bloodlines by C. E. Sarrow ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnE7IBWNpbSBZb0dnhF-ize0L7t4krfE4cuiAfvqWmmwbwFWp53kpg_pI0tts1EME_fT1hV-NIdc5j78EkCFlU64A5FvsFQRt6JBx5v6YTZnUjHhs9EAwFkIMnej09-EcR9ns1y_wpGp-T6hRWp5uZIpHN9xkNljUC8MNPwSB3y-F86SkM2qK309z47w/s5712/IMG_7269.jpeg&quot; style=&quot;display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;&quot; border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;5712&quot; data-original-width=&quot;4284&quot; height=&quot;320&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnE7IBWNpbSBZb0dnhF-ize0L7t4krfE4cuiAfvqWmmwbwFWp53kpg_pI0tts1EME_fT1hV-NIdc5j78EkCFlU64A5FvsFQRt6JBx5v6YTZnUjHhs9EAwFkIMnej09-EcR9ns1y_wpGp-T6hRWp5uZIpHN9xkNljUC8MNPwSB3y-F86SkM2qK309z47w/s320/IMG_7269.jpeg&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;183&quot; data-start=&quot;17&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;em data-end=&quot;29&quot; data-start=&quot;17&quot;&gt;Bloodlines&lt;/em&gt; by C. E. Sarrow delivers a dark, tension-filled romance wrapped in a dangerous mafia world, but it took me a little while to fully settle into the story.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
7057&lt;p data-end=&quot;547&quot; data-start=&quot;185&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;At the beginning, I struggled with the writing style—it felt quite heavy at times, and I found myself needing to reread certain passages to fully grasp what was happening. This slowed the pacing for me and made it harder to immediately connect with the story. However, once I pushed past that initial hurdle, I found myself drawn into Amelia and Emory’s dynamic.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
7058&lt;p data-end=&quot;950&quot; data-start=&quot;549&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;The chemistry between them is intense, layered with that addictive push-and-pull of enemies-to-lovers. Amelia’s quiet strength and defiance made her more than just a pawn, and Emory’s cold, calculated nature paired with glimpses of vulnerability created a compelling contrast. Their relationship walks that razor edge between tension, desire, and danger, which kept me engaged as the story progressed.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
7059&lt;p data-end=&quot;1225&quot; data-start=&quot;952&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;That said, while I did enjoy the book overall, it didn’t quite hit the “WOW” factor I was expecting. The premise had so much potential for explosive twists and emotional depth, and while it delivered in parts, it never fully reached that unforgettable, all-consuming level.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
7060&lt;p data-end=&quot;1398&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1227&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Still, &lt;em data-end=&quot;1246&quot; data-start=&quot;1234&quot;&gt;Bloodlines&lt;/em&gt; is a solid read for fans of dark romance and mafia tension, especially if you enjoy a slow burn with morally grey characters and high emotional stakes.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1398&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1227&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: medium;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1398&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1227&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;

7060Thank you to the author for my digital ARC in exchange for a review. As always, my reviews are my own and unbiased opinions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1398&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1227&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1398&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1227&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/419565998549734620/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/bloodlines-by-c-e-sarrow-arc-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/419565998549734620'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/419565998549734620'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/bloodlines-by-c-e-sarrow-arc-review.html' title='Bloodlines by C. E. Sarrow ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnE7IBWNpbSBZb0dnhF-ize0L7t4krfE4cuiAfvqWmmwbwFWp53kpg_pI0tts1EME_fT1hV-NIdc5j78EkCFlU64A5FvsFQRt6JBx5v6YTZnUjHhs9EAwFkIMnej09-EcR9ns1y_wpGp-T6hRWp5uZIpHN9xkNljUC8MNPwSB3y-F86SkM2qK309z47w/s72-c/IMG_7269.jpeg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-5238799964456401076</id><published>2026-04-01T08:00:00.006-06:00</published><updated>2026-04-01T08:00:00.129-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="BookLists"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="MostAnticipated"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="NewReleases"/><title type='text'>🔎 30+ Must-Read Mystery &amp; Thriller Books | Coming Spring 2026</title><content type='html'>  &lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6syfmAxhfUhXhhJuQFeDhaYH0SyVcpRa4RtZKTqut_u1VF3gdAX5Y_ZojZ8MCjCot4RGkZXriKDQxml1vhUiR2hHw7RpL7qKS6uYDQJ0Z1zWb2R-1enOOw75dETiORsz079u-uSamMDpSdO_bkEXnnVG8YxtW2sYZIZEGVAnLEnLk-2BV3DO8bXCtjM/s1600/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png
7061&quot; imageanchor=&quot;1&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;628&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1200&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6syfmAxhfUhXhhJuQFeDhaYH0SyVcpRa4RtZKTqut_u1VF3gdAX5Y_ZojZ8MCjCot4RGkZXriKDQxml1vhUiR2hHw7RpL7qKS6uYDQJ0Z1zWb2R-1enOOw75dETiORsz079u-uSamMDpSdO_bkEXnnVG8YxtW2sYZIZEGVAnLEnLk-2BV3DO8bXCtjM/s1600/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png
7062&quot; style=&quot;display:none;&quot;/&gt;&lt;/a&gt;
7063
7064&lt;style&gt;
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7069}
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7155</style>
7156
7157<p style="font-size: 13px; color: #777; margin-top: 0;">
7158  <em>*(April Releases + Most Anticipated Thrillers You Need on Your TBR)*</em>
7159</p>
7160
7161<div class="book-grid">
7162  
7163  
7164<div style="max-width: 700px; font-family: Georgia, serif; color: #333; line-height: 1.7; font-size: 16px;">
7165
7166  <p>
7167    If you love <strong>dark, twisty, can’t-put-it-down books</strong>… Spring 2026 is stacked.
7168  </p>
7169
7170  <p>
7171    From <strong>psychological thrillers</strong> and <strong>domestic suspense</strong> to 
7172    <strong>crime, mystery, and romantic thrillers</strong>, this season is bringing some of the most addictive reads of the year.
7173  </p>
7174
7175  <p>
7176    Whether you’re here for <strong>shocking twists</strong>, <strong>messy secrets</strong>, or 
7177    <strong>slow-burn tension</strong>, you’re going to find your next obsession.
7178  </p>
7179
7180</div>
7181  
7182  <div style="background:#f7f3ef; padding:15px; border-radius:10px; margin-bottom:10px;">
7183  📌 Save this post so you don’t miss these Spring 2026 thriller releases!
7184</div>
7185  
7186  <h2 style="font-family: Georgia, serif; margin-top:15px;">
7187  🖤 April 2026 Thriller Releases
7188</h2>
7189
7190  <!-- BOOK 1 -->
7191  <div class="book-item">
7192    <div class="book-cover">
7193      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Ending-Writes-Itself-Novel/dp/0063481316/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=64213545262&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8pLd34YifSuLIe7KDgsNFsdA8twYJ_B_1S2_E_AexmQGlwZhl5xegumuq-yJglzLSm-wGP-X14BhMz_VhkAc6Q.jtgflvHuqHqdHjeTq_TEU57A5u5me2bALFBBeZ9uNEA&dib_tag=se&hvadid=609161165978&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9001255&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=607213320175582935&hvtargid=kwd-2415463393086&hydadcr=22440_13397371&keywords=the+ending+writes+itself&mcid=ebff338d70b433ee835e24aec20ac490&qid=1774663118&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7194        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71okQqxyUbL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Ending Writes Itself - Evelyn Clarke">
7195      </a>
7196    </div>
7197    <div class="book-details">
7198      <div class="book-title">
7199        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Ending-Writes-Itself-Novel/dp/0063481316/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=64213545262&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8pLd34YifSuLIe7KDgsNFsdA8twYJ_B_1S2_E_AexmQGlwZhl5xegumuq-yJglzLSm-wGP-X14BhMz_VhkAc6Q.jtgflvHuqHqdHjeTq_TEU57A5u5me2bALFBBeZ9uNEA&dib_tag=se&hvadid=609161165978&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9001255&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=607213320175582935&hvtargid=kwd-2415463393086&hydadcr=22440_13397371&keywords=the+ending+writes+itself&mcid=ebff338d70b433ee835e24aec20ac490&qid=1774663118&sr=8-1" target="_blank">The Ending Writes Itself - Evelyn Clarke</a>
7200      </div>
7201      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 7, 2026</div>
7202      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Mystery & Thriller</div>
7203      <div class="book-summary">
7204        Six authors compete on a remote island, but not all of them will make it out.
7205      </div>
7206      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Ending-Writes-Itself-Novel/dp/0063481316/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=64213545262&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8pLd34YifSuLIe7KDgsNFsdA8twYJ_B_1S2_E_AexmQGlwZhl5xegumuq-yJglzLSm-wGP-X14BhMz_VhkAc6Q.jtgflvHuqHqdHjeTq_TEU57A5u5me2bALFBBeZ9uNEA&dib_tag=se&hvadid=609161165978&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9001255&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=607213320175582935&hvtargid=kwd-2415463393086&hydadcr=22440_13397371&keywords=the+ending+writes+itself&mcid=ebff338d70b433ee835e24aec20ac490&qid=1774663118&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7207        Buy Now
7208      </a>
7209    </div>
7210  </div>
7211  
7212    <!-- BOOK 2 -->
7213  <div class="book-item">
7214    <div class="book-cover">
7215      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Trip-Ally-Condie/dp/1538773457" target="_blank">
7216        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81ga5VnhTXL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Girls Trip – Ally Condie">
7217      </a>
7218    </div>
7219    <div class="

7219book-details">
7220      <div class="book-title">
7221        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Trip-Ally-Condie/dp/1538773457" target="_blank">The Girls Trip – Ally Condie</a>
7222      </div>
7223      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 7, 2026</div>
7224      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Mystery & Thriller</div>
7225      <div class="book-summary">
7226        What starts as a dream getaway quickly turns into something far more dangerous when secrets begin to surface. As tensions rise, the trip becomes a fight for survival.
7227      </div>
7228      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Trip-Ally-Condie/dp/1538773457" target="_blank">
7229        Buy Now
7230      </a>
7231    </div>
7232  </div>
7233  
7234     <!-- BOOK 3 -->
7235  <div class="book-item">
7236    <div class="book-cover">
7237      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Murder-at-Cinnamon-Falls-Novel/dp/0063482444/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YQXcAT_J4xS-j3yzwI2fSA.pMd7sr3fbvHflYC2b49ANDS7ADdf28YGcBsNhFQZ4Rk&dib_tag=se&keywords=9780063482449&qid=1774663032&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7238        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/819J9QT9jNL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Murder at Cinnamon Falls — R.L. Killmore">
7239      </a>
7240    </div>
7241    <div class="book-details">
7242      <div class="book-title">
7243        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Murder-at-Cinnamon-Falls-Novel/dp/0063482444/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YQXcAT_J4xS-j3yzwI2fSA.pMd7sr3fbvHflYC2b49ANDS7ADdf28YGcBsNhFQZ4Rk&dib_tag=se&keywords=9780063482449&qid=1774663032&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Murder at Cinnamon Falls — R.L. Killmore</a>
7244      </div>
7245      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 7, 2026</div>
7246      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Cozy Mystery</div>
7247      <div class="book-summary">
7248        A cozy small-town mystery where a shocking murder disrupts a quiet community. With secrets hiding behind friendly faces, uncovering the truth won’t be easy.
7249      </div>
7250      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Murder-at-Cinnamon-Falls-Novel/dp/0063482444/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YQXcAT_J4xS-j3yzwI2fSA.pMd7sr3fbvHflYC2b49ANDS7ADdf28YGcBsNhFQZ4Rk&dib_tag=se&keywords=9780063482449&qid=1774663032&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7251        Buy Now
7252      </a>
7253    </div>
7254  </div>
7255  
7256     <!-- BOOK 4 -->
7257  <div class="book-item">
7258    <div class="book-cover">
7259      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Close-Home-Seraphina-Nova-Glass/dp/0778306437" target="_blank">
7260        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81BnMrh2jTL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Too Close to Home – Seraphina Nova Glass">
7261      </a>
7262    </div>
7263    <div class="book-details">
7264      <div class="book-title">
7265        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Close-Home-Seraphina-Nova-Glass/dp/0778306437" target="_blank">Too Close to Home – Seraphina Nova Glass</a>
7266      </div>
7267      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 14, 2026</div>
7268      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7269      <div class="book-summary">
7270        When danger hits too close, long-buried secrets begin to unravel. This tense domestic thriller explores trust, fear, and how well we really know those around us.
7271      </div>
7272      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Close-Home-Seraphina-Nova-Glass/dp/0778306437" target="_blank">
7273        Buy Now
7274      </a>
7275    </div>
7276  </div>
7277  
7278     <!-- BOOK 5 -->
7279  <div class="book-item">
7280    <div class="book-cover">
7281      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Last-One-Out-Jane-Harper-ebook/dp/B0F5PBT8S2" target="_blank">
7282        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91gf6L4hSsL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Last One Out – Jane Harper">
7283      </a>
7284    </div>
7285    <div class="

7285book-details">
7286      <div class="book-title">
7287        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Last-One-Out-Jane-Harper-ebook/dp/B0F5PBT8S2" target="_blank">Last One Out – Jane Harper</a>
7288      </div>
7289      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 14, 2026</div>
7290      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Mystery & Thriller</div>
7291      <div class="book-summary">
7292        A slow-burn mystery set in a dying town where a disappearance uncovers buried secrets.
7293      </div>
7294      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Last-One-Out-Jane-Harper-ebook/dp/B0F5PBT8S2" target="_blank">
7295        Buy Now
7296      </a>
7297    </div>
7298  </div>
7299  
7300     <!-- BOOK 6 -->
7301  <div class="book-item">
7302    <div class="book-cover">
7303      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Her-First-Lie-Lucinda-Berry/dp/1662526067" target="_blank">
7304        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81QfESWN6-L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Her First Lie – Lucinda Berry">
7305      </a>
7306    </div>
7307    <div class="book-details">
7308      <div class="book-title">
7309        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Her-First-Lie-Lucinda-Berry/dp/1662526067" target="_blank">Her First Lie – Lucinda Berry</a>
7310      </div>
7311      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7312      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7313      <div class="book-summary">
7314        A gripping psychological thriller about deception, trauma, and hidden truths. As the story unfolds, nothing is quite what it seems.
7315      </div>
7316      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Her-First-Lie-Lucinda-Berry/dp/1662526067" target="_blank">
7317        Buy Now
7318      </a>
7319    </div>
7320  </div>
7321  
7322       <!-- BOOK 7 -->
7323  <div class="book-item">
7324    <div class="book-cover">
7325      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Reasonable-Suspicion-Thriller-James-Chandler/dp/1648756948" target="_blank">
7326        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81GvMdNu2YL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Reasonable Suspicion — James Chandler">
7327      </a>
7328    </div>
7329    <div class="book-details">
7330      <div class="book-title">
7331        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Reasonable-Suspicion-Thriller-James-Chandler/dp/1648756948" target="_blank">Reasonable Suspicion — James Chandler</a>
7332      </div>
7333      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7334      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Legal Thriller</div>
7335      <div class="book-summary">
7336        A high-stakes legal case spirals into danger as buried truths begin to surface.
7337      </div>
7338      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Reasonable-Suspicion-Thriller-James-Chandler/dp/1648756948" target="_blank">
7339        Buy Now
7340      </a>
7341    </div>
7342  </div>
7343  
7344       <!-- BOOK 8 -->
7345  <div class="book-item">
7346    <div class="book-cover">
7347      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Hostess-gripping-psychological-thriller-coming/dp/1399748165" target="_blank">
7348        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91urAeG4TvL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Hostess — Courtney Psak">
7349      </a>
7350    </div>
7351    <div class="book-details">
7352      <div class="book-title">
7353        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Hostess-gripping-psychological-thriller-coming/dp/1399748165" target="_blank">The Hostess — Courtney Psak</a>
7354      </div>
7355      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7356      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7357      <div class="book-summary">
7358        A dinner party gone wrong reveals secrets that refuse to stay hidden.
7359      </div>
7360      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Hostess-gripping-psychological-thriller-coming/dp/1399748165" target="_blank">
7361        Buy Now
7362      </a>
7363    </div>
7364  </div>
7365  
7366       <!-- BOOK 9 -->
7367  <div class="book-item">
7368    <div class="book-cover">
7369      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Caretaker-Novel-Marcus-Kliewer/dp/1982198818" target="_blank">
7370        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81xuRXXIBBL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Caretaker — Marcus Kliewer">
7371      </a>
7372    </div>
7373    <div class="

7373book-details">
7374      <div class="book-title">
7375        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Caretaker-Novel-Marcus-Kliewer/dp/1982198818" target="_blank">The Caretaker — Marcus Kliewer</a>
7376      </div>
7377      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7378      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Horror Thriller / Suspense</div>
7379      <div class="book-summary">
7380        An eerie, tension-filled thriller where trust quickly turns into fear.
7381      </div>
7382      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Caretaker-Novel-Marcus-Kliewer/dp/1982198818" target="_blank">
7383        Buy Now
7384      </a>
7385    </div>
7386  </div>
7387  
7388       <!-- BOOK 10 -->
7389  <div class="book-item">
7390    <div class="book-cover">
7391      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Flirting-Murder-Novel-Amanda-Sellet/dp/1250360196" target="_blank">
7392        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81Cm9C2OmUL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Flirting with Murder — Amanda Sellet">
7393      </a>
7394    </div>
7395    <div class="book-details">
7396      <div class="book-title">
7397        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Flirting-Murder-Novel-Amanda-Sellet/dp/1250360196" target="_blank">Flirting with Murder — Amanda Sellet</a>
7398      </div>
7399      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7400      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Romantic Thriller</div>
7401      <div class="book-summary">
7402        A fun blend of romance and mystery with danger lurking beneath the surface.
7403      </div>
7404      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Flirting-Murder-Novel-Amanda-Sellet/dp/1250360196" target="_blank">
7405        Buy Now
7406      </a>
7407    </div>
7408  </div>
7409  
7410         <!-- BOOK 11 -->
7411  <div class="book-item">
7412    <div class="book-cover">
7413      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Mad-Mabel-Novel-Sally-Hepworth-ebook/dp/B0F5PCBV62" target="_blank">
7414        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71Fey81t3hL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Mad Mabel — Sally Hepworth">
7415      </a>
7416    </div>
7417    <div class="book-details">
7418      <div class="book-title">
7419        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Mad-Mabel-Novel-Sally-Hepworth-ebook/dp/B0F5PCBV62" target="_blank">Mad Mabel — Sally Hepworth</a>
7420      </div>
7421      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7422      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7423      <div class="book-summary">
7424        An elderly woman with a suspicious past becomes the center of a dark, twisty story.
7425      </div>
7426      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Mad-Mabel-Novel-Sally-Hepworth-ebook/dp/B0F5PCBV62" target="_blank">
7427        Buy Now
7428      </a>
7429    </div>
7430  </div>
7431  
7432         <!-- BOOK 12 -->
7433  <div class="book-item">
7434    <div class="book-cover">
7435      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cute-Little-Murder-Molly-Harper/dp/0593817346" target="_blank">
7436        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/812l7Iqo9JL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="A Cute Little Murder — Molly Harper">
7437      </a>
7438    </div>
7439    <div class="book-details">
7440      <div class="book-title">
7441        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cute-Little-Murder-Molly-Harper/dp/0593817346" target="_blank">A Cute Little Murder — Molly Harper</a>
7442      </div>
7443      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 21, 2026</div>
7444      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Cozy Mystery</div>
7445      <div class="book-summary">
7446        A cozy mystery with humor, charm, and just enough danger to keep you hooked.
7447      </div>
7448      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Cute-Little-Murder-Molly-Harper/dp/0593817346" target="_blank">
7449        Buy Now
7450      </a>
7451    </div>
7452  </div>
7453  
7454           <!-- BOOK 13 -->
7455  <div class="book-item">
7456    <div class="book-cover">
7457      <a href="

7457https://www.amazon.ca/Deadly-Episode-Novel-Anthony-Horowitz/dp/144346967X" target="_blank">
7458        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71xmaHSyguL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="A Deadly Episode — Anthony Horowitz">
7459      </a>
7460    </div>
7461    <div class="book-details">
7462      <div class="book-title">
7463        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Deadly-Episode-Novel-Anthony-Horowitz/dp/144346967X" target="_blank">A Deadly Episode — Anthony Horowitz</a>
7464      </div>
7465      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 28, 2026</div>
7466      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Police Procedural</div>
7467      <div class="book-summary">
7468        A classic mystery filled with clever twists and an expertly crafted investigation.
7469      </div>
7470      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Deadly-Episode-Novel-Anthony-Horowitz/dp/144346967X" target="_blank">
7471        Buy Now
7472      </a>
7473    </div>
7474  </div>
7475  
7476           <!-- BOOK 14 -->
7477  <div class="book-item">
7478    <div class="book-cover">
7479      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/They-Want-Us-Dead-Novel/dp/1250340535/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1D1HMHGR9RWT3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4VMIWlo-XeGhURkVp6wvEg.T7MYonqEk941xI7ygDa7YSC3XjB0lMqLpOng0kwBEAw&dib_tag=se&keywords=They+Want+Us+Dead%3A+A+Novel+Hardcover+by+CL+Montblan&qid=1774725304&sprefix=they+want+us+dead+a+novel+hardcover+by+cl+montblanc%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7480        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91m2xh4KhZL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="They Want Us Dead – C.L. Montblanc">
7481      </a>
7482    </div>
7483    <div class="book-details">
7484      <div class="book-title">
7485        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/They-Want-Us-Dead-Novel/dp/1250340535/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1D1HMHGR9RWT3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4VMIWlo-XeGhURkVp6wvEg.T7MYonqEk941xI7ygDa7YSC3XjB0lMqLpOng0kwBEAw&dib_tag=se&keywords=They+Want+Us+Dead%3A+A+Novel+Hardcover+by+CL+Montblan&qid=1774725304&sprefix=they+want+us+dead+a+novel+hardcover+by+cl+montblanc%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1" target="_blank">They Want Us Dead – C.L. Montblanc</a>
7486      </div>
7487      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 28, 2026</div>
7488      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Survival Thriller</div>
7489      <div class="book-summary">
7490        Fast-paced and suspenseful, this thriller follows characters caught in a deadly situation where survival means staying one step ahead at all times.
7491      </div>
7492      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/They-Want-Us-Dead-Novel/dp/1250340535/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1D1HMHGR9RWT3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.4VMIWlo-XeGhURkVp6wvEg.T7MYonqEk941xI7ygDa7YSC3XjB0lMqLpOng0kwBEAw&dib_tag=se&keywords=They+Want+Us+Dead%3A+A+Novel+Hardcover+by+CL+Montblan&qid=1774725304&sprefix=they+want+us+dead+a+novel+hardcover+by+cl+montblanc%2Caps%2C190&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7493        Buy Now
7494      </a>
7495    </div>
7496  </div>
7497  
7498           <!-- BOOK 15 -->
7499  <div class="book-item">
7500    <div class="book-cover">
7501      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Dark-When-Devil-Comes-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F5PCRB51" target="_blank">
7502        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91ZtBFWNAAL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Dark Is When the Devil Comes — Daisy Pearce">
7503      </a>
7504    </div>
7505    <div class="book-details">
7506      <div class="book-title">
7507        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Dark-When-Devil-Comes-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F5PCRB51" target="_blank">Dark Is When the Devil Comes — Daisy Pearce</a>
7508      </div>
7509      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 28, 2026</div>
7510      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7511      <div class="book-summary">
7512        A chilling psychological thriller exploring fear, obsession, and the unknown. Dark, unsettling, and impossible to shake.
7513      </div>
7514      <a class="buy-button" href="

7514https://www.amazon.ca/Dark-When-Devil-Comes-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F5PCRB51" target="_blank">
7515        Buy Now
7516      </a>
7517    </div>
7518  </div>
7519  
7520           <!-- BOOK 16 -->
7521  <div class="book-item">
7522    <div class="book-cover">
7523      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cheat-Death-Castle-Knoll-Files-ebook/dp/B0F9KMC9CC" target="_blank">
7524        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81jbKpqNtdL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="How to Cheat Your Own Death — Kristen Perrin">
7525      </a>
7526    </div>
7527    <div class="book-details">
7528      <div class="book-title">
7529        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Cheat-Death-Castle-Knoll-Files-ebook/dp/B0F9KMC9CC" target="_blank">How to Cheat Your Own Death — Kristen Perrin</a>
7530      </div>
7531      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 28, 2026</div>
7532      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Mystery</div>
7533      <div class="book-summary">
7534        A twisty, unpredictable story about survival, deception, and unexpected consequences.
7535      </div>
7536      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Cheat-Death-Castle-Knoll-Files-ebook/dp/B0F9KMC9CC" target="_blank">
7537        Buy Now
7538      </a>
7539    </div>
7540  </div>
7541  
7542           <!-- BOOK 17 -->
7543  <div class="book-item">
7544    <div class="book-cover">
7545      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Boring-Asian-Female-Canwen-Xu/dp/1443475718" target="_blank">
7546        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81lpvfImS1L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Boring Asian Female — Canwen Xu">
7547      </a>
7548    </div>
7549    <div class="book-details">
7550      <div class="book-title">
7551        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Boring-Asian-Female-Canwen-Xu/dp/1443475718" target="_blank">Boring Asian Female — Canwen Xu</a>
7552      </div>
7553      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 28, 2026</div>
7554      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7555      <div class="book-summary">
7556        A sharp psychological thriller about identity, perception, and hidden rage.
7557      </div>
7558      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Boring-Asian-Female-Canwen-Xu/dp/1443475718" target="_blank">
7559        Buy Now
7560      </a>
7561    </div>
7562  </div>
7563  
7564           <!-- BOOK 18 -->
7565  <div class="book-item">
7566    <div class="book-cover">
7567      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Molka-hotly-anticipated-bestselling-author/dp/1840918624" target="_blank">
7568        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/819T2wcfe-L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Molka — Monika Kim">
7569      </a>
7570    </div>
7571    <div class="book-details">
7572      <div class="book-title">
7573        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Molka-hotly-anticipated-bestselling-author/dp/1840918624" target="_blank">Molka — Monika Kim</a>
7574      </div>
7575      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> April 30, 2026</div>
7576      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7577      <div class="book-summary">
7578        A sharp and disturbing revenge thriller tackling voyeurism, control, and power.
7579      </div>
7580      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Molka-hotly-anticipated-bestselling-author/dp/1840918624" target="_blank">
7581        Buy Now
7582      </a>
7583    </div>
7584  </div>
7585  
7586  
7587    <h2 style="font-family: Georgia, serif; margin-top:40px;">
7588  🌸 Most Anticipated Spring 2026 Thrillers
7589</h2>  
7590  
7591  
7592           <!-- BOOK 19 -->
7593  <div class="book-item">
7594    <div class="book-cover">
7595      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Dead-Room-Catriona-McPherson-ebook/dp/B0FLYGM99R/ref=sr_1_1?crid=WM2PWB2LTMTK&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oJ9KxlB2l9F086-vf6gwoA.si4FFIC15qK1B-p2pTi7RpT8mXfVOToRxPPpUTZXnqI&dib_tag=se&

7595keywords=The+Dead+Room+%E2%80%93+Catriona+McPherson&qid=1774664867&s=digital-text&sprefix=the+dead+room+catriona+mcpherson%2Cdigital-text%2C173&sr=1-1" target="_blank">
7596        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71Kpxf2jI0L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Dead Room – Catriona McPherson">
7597      </a>
7598    </div>
7599    <div class="book-details">
7600      <div class="book-title">
7601        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Dead-Room-Catriona-McPherson-ebook/dp/B0FLYGM99R/ref=sr_1_1?crid=WM2PWB2LTMTK&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oJ9KxlB2l9F086-vf6gwoA.si4FFIC15qK1B-p2pTi7RpT8mXfVOToRxPPpUTZXnqI&dib_tag=se&keywords=The+Dead+Room+%E2%80%93+Catriona+McPherson&qid=1774664867&s=digital-text&sprefix=the+dead+room+catriona+mcpherson%2Cdigital-text%2C173&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Dead Room – Catriona McPherson</a>
7602      </div>
7603      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 1, 2026</div>
7604      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Mystery & Thriller</div>
7605      <div class="book-summary">
7606        An investigator enters a house where a family vanished decades ago, only to find the past is still very much alive. A hauntingly atmospheric mystery where every shadow holds a secret.
7607      </div>
7608      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Dead-Room-Catriona-McPherson-ebook/dp/B0FLYGM99R/ref=sr_1_1?crid=WM2PWB2LTMTK&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oJ9KxlB2l9F086-vf6gwoA.si4FFIC15qK1B-p2pTi7RpT8mXfVOToRxPPpUTZXnqI&dib_tag=se&keywords=The+Dead+Room+%E2%80%93+Catriona+McPherson&qid=1774664867&s=digital-text&sprefix=the+dead+room+catriona+mcpherson%2Cdigital-text%2C173&sr=1-1" target="_blank">
7609        Buy Now
7610      </a>
7611    </div>
7612  </div>
7613  
7614  
7615           <!-- BOOK 20 -->
7616  <div class="book-item">
7617    <div class="book-cover">
7618      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Our-Little-Secret-mind-blowing-psychological-ebook/dp/B0GPXS9CHM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IEYCOOWPAKPB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zZLUM32V868x3VShQZHJ9IHk8r4f68ArUPxV-wyhX2v45NK0twVIr5H702WmrasrOJFVz6S2pKLg4bW0y5Aewq0TrQwjnyzqpeqSYOZluupsazenoxNxCJQm5GT2JalgkWtSOa4rLaJ45_38Fax_-QlgmTN3jYzPHzDbyWb9Kt2sV4Uo_k0zf7YwOCFAIDf1yGjeFCC4M0nFWi6fsigxEjSe669dSAGawOEl4hoGblk.hw0qhC3dLF7WkD5f7zviT6lCL6nkO4CiWWly32e0qos&dib_tag=se&keywords=our+little+secret+samantha&qid=1774663894&s=books&sprefix=our+little+secret+samantha%2Cstripbooks%2C162&sr=1-1" target="_blank">
7619        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81H0TWJ409L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Our Little Secret – Samantha Hayes">
7620      </a>
7621    </div>
7622    <div class="book-details">
7623      <div class="book-title">
7624        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Our-Little-Secret-mind-blowing-psychological-ebook/dp/B0GPXS9CHM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IEYCOOWPAKPB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zZLUM32V868x3VShQZHJ9IHk8r4f68ArUPxV-wyhX2v45NK0twVIr5H702WmrasrOJFVz6S2pKLg4bW0y5Aewq0TrQwjnyzqpeqSYOZluupsazenoxNxCJQm5GT2JalgkWtSOa4rLaJ45_38Fax_-QlgmTN3jYzPHzDbyWb9Kt2sV4Uo_k0zf7YwOCFAIDf1yGjeFCC4M0nFWi6fsigxEjSe669dSAGawOEl4hoGblk.hw0qhC3dLF7WkD5f7zviT6lCL6nkO4CiWWly32e0qos&dib_tag=se&keywords=our+little+secret+samantha&qid=1774663894&s=books&sprefix=our+little+secret+samantha%2Cstripbooks%2C162&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Our Little Secret – Samantha Hayes</a>
7625      </div>
7626      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 5, 2026</div>
7627      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Domestic Thriller</div>
7628      <div class="book-summary">
7629        A mother returns home to find her baby and the nanny missing, sparking a desperate race against time. This domestic thriller proves that the people you trust most are often the ones with the darkest secrets.
7630      </div>
7631      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Our-Little-Secret-mind-blowing-psychological-ebook/dp/B0GPXS9CHM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IEYCOOWPAKPB&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zZLUM32V868x3VShQZHJ9IHk8r4f68ArUPxV-wyhX2v45NK0twVIr5H702WmrasrOJFVz6S2pKLg4bW0y5Aewq0TrQwjnyzqpeqSYOZluupsazenoxNxCJQm5GT2JalgkWtSOa4rLaJ45_38Fax_-QlgmTN3jYzPHzDbyWb9Kt2sV4Uo_k0zf7YwOCFAIDf1yGjeFCC4M0nFWi6fsigxEjSe669dSAGawOEl4hoGblk.hw0qhC3dLF7WkD5f7zviT6lCL6nkO4CiWWly32e0qos&dib_tag=se&keywords=our+little+secret+samantha&qid=1774663894&s=books&sprefix=our+little+secret+samantha%2Cstripbooks%2C162&sr=1-1" target="_blank">
7632        Buy Now
7633      </a>
7634    </div>
7635  </div>
7636  
7637             <!-- BOOK 21 -->
7638  <div class="book-item">
7639    <div class="book-cover">
7640      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/All-Pretty-Girls-J-T-Ellison/dp/1662541422/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WnEn78aDVQ2vnfjKDldih2X06i8M9PwQ9C3B7b2sWAzBNQles5_67irkp8tmWdo_LP6xWSOJNRBxMEizgHujqHVBTQqtWdsi42YCltHe4bE.Y0PhwOTGEDUhkkDzfNNc0kAyc30JA9m6lu3re5wxHWY&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=788657935841&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9001255&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=1431266758041589267--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=1431266758041589267&hvtargid=kwd-301696157415&hydadcr=5730_13536017&keywords=j+t+ellison+all+the+pretty+girls&mcid=c653dbd1f24c3d94a600150d61d2b027&qid=1774663809&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7641        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/A153WbhU-XL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="All the Pretty Girls – J.T Ellison">
7642      </a>
7643    </div>
7644    <div class="

7644book-details">
7645      <div class="book-title">
7646        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/All-Pretty-Girls-J-T-Ellison/dp/1662541422/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WnEn78aDVQ2vnfjKDldih2X06i8M9PwQ9C3B7b2sWAzBNQles5_67irkp8tmWdo_LP6xWSOJNRBxMEizgHujqHVBTQqtWdsi42YCltHe4bE.Y0PhwOTGEDUhkkDzfNNc0kAyc30JA9m6lu3re5wxHWY&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=788657935841&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9001255&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=1431266758041589267--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=1431266758041589267&hvtargid=kwd-301696157415&hydadcr=5730_13536017&keywords=j+t+ellison+all+the+pretty+girls&mcid=c653dbd1f24c3d94a600150d61d2b027&qid=1774663809&sr=8-1" target="_blank">All the Pretty Girls – J.T Ellison</a>
7647      </div>
7648      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 5, 2026</div>
7649      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Police Procedural</div>
7650      <div class="book-summary">
7651        Nashville Homicide’s Taylor Jackson hunts a serial killer leaving a trail of high-profile victims across the South. It’s a gritty, high-stakes procedural that dives deep into the mind of a monster.
7652      </div>
7653      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/All-Pretty-Girls-J-T-Ellison/dp/1662541422/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WnEn78aDVQ2vnfjKDldih2X06i8M9PwQ9C3B7b2sWAzBNQles5_67irkp8tmWdo_LP6xWSOJNRBxMEizgHujqHVBTQqtWdsi42YCltHe4bE.Y0PhwOTGEDUhkkDzfNNc0kAyc30JA9m6lu3re5wxHWY&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=788657935841&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9001255&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=1431266758041589267--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=1431266758041589267&hvtargid=kwd-301696157415&hydadcr=5730_13536017&keywords=j+t+ellison+all+the+pretty+girls&mcid=c653dbd1f24c3d94a600150d61d2b027&qid=1774663809&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7654        Buy Now
7655      </a>
7656    </div>
7657  </div>
7658  
7659               <!-- BOOK 22 -->
7660  <div class="book-item">
7661    <div class="book-cover">
7662      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Hidden-Lies-Viveca-Sten/dp/166252983X" target="_blank">
7663        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81hHIo9NMZL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Hidden in Lies - Viveca Sten">
7664      </a>
7665    </div>
7666    <div class="book-details">
7667      <div class="book-title">
7668        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Hidden-Lies-Viveca-Sten/dp/166252983X" target="_blank">Hidden in Lies - Viveca Sten</a>
7669      </div>
7670      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 5, 2026</div>
7671      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Scandi-Noir</div>
7672      <div class="book-summary">
7673        On the icy shores of Sandhamn, a disappearance uncovers a web of corporate greed and family betrayal. A chilling Scandi-noir that stays cold until the final, shocking reveal.
7674      </div>
7675      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Hidden-Lies-Viveca-Sten/dp/166252983X" target="_blank">
7676        Buy Now
7677      </a>
7678    </div>
7679  </div>
7680
7681  
7682               <!-- BOOK 23 -->
7683  <div class="book-item">
7684    <div class="book-cover">
7685      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Anniversary-Thriller-Alex-Finlay/dp/1250360757" target="_blank">
7686        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81RDnmlXcEL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Anniversary – Alex Finlay">
7687      </a>
7688    </div>
7689    <div class="book-details">
7690      <div class="book-title">
7691        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Anniversary-Thriller-Alex-Finlay/dp/1250360757" target="_blank">The Anniversary – Alex Finlay</a>
7692      </div>
7693      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 12, 2026</div>
7694      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7695      <div class="book-summary">
7696        Survivors of a horrific massacre return to a family resort for closure, but find a new nightmare waiting instead. A fast-paced thriller that redefines the meaning of "family ties."
7697      </div>
7698      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Anniversary-Thriller-Alex-Finlay/dp/1250360757" target="_blank">
7699        Buy Now
7700      </a>
7701    </div>
7702  </div>
7703
7704  
7705               <!-- BOOK 24 -->
7706  <div class="book-item">
7707    <div class="book-cover">
7708      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Drowning-Season-Debra-Webb/dp/1662534523/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.q_zuxO8BtfrapXGUtg__XL3au0UGbxj7PtAN7UhOgIEzmL90qpnP5QQl6l2MLIZAARNOVwwhJPuOVGzC_Gusgw.TttXdRwCFfYi7UWbSBN8qxQF8i1i2pAKzIctrfG1TUQ&qid=1774663829&sr=1-1" target="_blank">
7709        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/919nLOq7N-L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Drowning Season – Debra Webb">
7710      </a>
7711    </div>
7712    <div class="

7712book-details">
7713      <div class="book-title">
7714        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Drowning-Season-Debra-Webb/dp/1662534523/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.q_zuxO8BtfrapXGUtg__XL3au0UGbxj7PtAN7UhOgIEzmL90qpnP5QQl6l2MLIZAARNOVwwhJPuOVGzC_Gusgw.TttXdRwCFfYi7UWbSBN8qxQF8i1i2pAKzIctrfG1TUQ&qid=1774663829&sr=1-1" target="_blank">The Drowning Season – Debra Webb</a>
7715      </div>
7716      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 12, 2026</div>
7717      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Southern Gothic Thriller</div>
7718      <div class="book-summary">
7719        A string of bizarre deaths points toward a dark local legend and a detective's own tragic history. This eerie Southern-gothic mystery is dripping with atmosphere and tension.
7720      </div>
7721      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Drowning-Season-Debra-Webb/dp/1662534523/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.q_zuxO8BtfrapXGUtg__XL3au0UGbxj7PtAN7UhOgIEzmL90qpnP5QQl6l2MLIZAARNOVwwhJPuOVGzC_Gusgw.TttXdRwCFfYi7UWbSBN8qxQF8i1i2pAKzIctrfG1TUQ&qid=1774663829&sr=1-1" target="_blank">
7722        Buy Now
7723      </a>
7724    </div>
7725  </div>
7726
7727  
7728               <!-- BOOK 25 -->
7729  <div class="book-item">
7730    <div class="book-cover">
7731      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/You-Tell-Olivia-Cruz-Book-ebook/dp/B0F1Z1QFKD" target="_blank">
7732        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/A1ENpgbLbhL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="You Can Tell Me - Melinda Leigh">
7733      </a>
7734    </div>
7735    <div class="book-details">
7736      <div class="book-title">
7737        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/You-Tell-Olivia-Cruz-Book-ebook/dp/B0F1Z1QFKD" target="_blank">You Can Tell Me - Melinda Leigh</a>
7738      </div>
7739      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 12, 2026</div>
7740      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Romantic Suspense</div>
7741      <div class="book-summary">
7742        Bree Taggert must untangle a knot of small-town lies to find a killer hiding in plain sight. A gripping mix of romantic suspense and relentless police work.
7743      </div>
7744      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/You-Tell-Olivia-Cruz-Book-ebook/dp/B0F1Z1QFKD" target="_blank">
7745        Buy Now
7746      </a>
7747    </div>
7748  </div>
7749  
7750                 <!-- BOOK 26 -->
7751  <div class="book-item">
7752    <div class="book-cover">
7753      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Final-Target-Nora-Roberts-ebook/dp/B0FLYPWG86" target="_blank">
7754        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81+9D-QDe3L._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Final Target – Nora Roberts">
7755      </a>
7756    </div>
7757    <div class="book-details">
7758      <div class="book-title">
7759        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Final-Target-Nora-Roberts-ebook/dp/B0FLYPWG86" target="_blank">The Final Target – Nora Roberts</a>
7760      </div>
7761      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 26, 2026</div>
7762      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Romantic Suspense</div>
7763      <div class="book-summary">
7764        An elite security expert must protect a high-profile client from an assassin who never misses. A sophisticated blend of high-octane action and slow-burn romance.
7765      </div>
7766      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Final-Target-Nora-Roberts-ebook/dp/B0FLYPWG86" target="_blank">
7767        Buy Now
7768      </a>
7769    </div>
7770  </div>
7771  
7772                 <!-- BOOK 27 -->
7773  <div class="book-item">
7774    <div class="book-cover">
7775      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1335690670?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tmmp_4&storeType=ebooks" target="_blank">
7776        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91YiAZg5EnL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Husband’s Secret – Debra Webb">
7777      </a>
7778    </div>
7779    <div class="

7779book-details">
7780      <div class="book-title">
7781        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1335690670?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tmmp_4&storeType=ebooks" target="_blank">The Husband’s Secret – Debra Webb</a>
7782      </div>
7783      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> May 26, 2026</div>
7784      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Domestic Thriller</div>
7785      <div class="book-summary">
7786        A woman’s perfect life shatters when she realizes her husband might be a killer. A relentless exploration of gaslighting, betrayal, and survival.
7787      </div>
7788      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1335690670?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tmmp_4&storeType=ebooks" target="_blank">
7789        Buy Now
7790      </a>
7791    </div>
7792  </div>
7793  
7794  
7795                 <!-- BOOK 28 -->
7796  <div class="book-item">
7797    <div class="book-cover">
7798      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Lake-Novel-Unexplained-Phenomenon-ebook/dp/B0FBMLZTS1" target="_blank">
7799        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71BA-3bakFL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="The Girl in the Lake - Lauren Oliver">
7800      </a>
7801    </div>
7802    <div class="book-details">
7803      <div class="book-title">
7804        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Lake-Novel-Unexplained-Phenomenon-ebook/dp/B0FBMLZTS1" target="_blank">The Girl in the Lake - Lauren Oliver</a>
7805      </div>
7806      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> June 1, 2026</div>
7807      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Supernatural Thriller</div>
7808      <div class="book-summary">
7809        A decades-old disappearance resurfaces to haunt a small community in this part-ghost story, part-thriller. An evocative read about the secrets that eventually float to the top.
7810      </div>
7811      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Lake-Novel-Unexplained-Phenomenon-ebook/dp/B0FBMLZTS1" target="_blank">
7812        Buy Now
7813      </a>
7814    </div>
7815  </div>
7816  
7817                 <!-- BOOK 29 -->
7818  <div class="book-item">
7819    <div class="book-cover">
7820      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marion-Novel-Leah-Rowan-ebook/dp/B0FLYQB327" target="_blank">
7821        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71RsF49wgEL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Marion – Leah Rowan">
7822      </a>
7823    </div>
7824    <div class="book-details">
7825      <div class="book-title">
7826        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marion-Novel-Leah-Rowan-ebook/dp/B0FLYQB327" target="_blank">Marion – Leah Rowan</a>
7827      </div>
7828      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> June 2, 2026</div>
7829      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Psychological Thriller</div>
7830      <div class="book-summary">
7831        A dark character study where a woman’s obsession leads her down a path of no return. A twisted psychological thriller that blurs the lines between love and madness.
7832      </div>
7833      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Marion-Novel-Leah-Rowan-ebook/dp/B0FLYQB327" target="_blank">
7834        Buy Now
7835      </a>
7836    </div>
7837  </div>
7838  
7839                 <!-- BOOK 30 -->
7840  <div class="book-item">
7841    <div class="book-cover">
7842      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Beach-Thriller-Novel-Jamie-Day/dp/125035823X" target="_blank">
7843        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81-FHC7QOnL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Beach Thriller – Jamie Day">
7844      </a>
7845    </div>
7846    <div class="

7846book-details">
7847      <div class="book-title">
7848        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Beach-Thriller-Novel-Jamie-Day/dp/125035823X" target="_blank">Beach Thriller – Jamie Day</a>
7849      </div>
7850      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> June 9, 2026</div>
7851      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Mystery & Thriller</div>
7852      <div class="book-summary">
7853        A gilded coastal community becomes a crime scene when a local is found dead and everyone has a motive. A sharp, sun-drenched mystery full of hairpin turns.
7854      </div>
7855      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Beach-Thriller-Novel-Jamie-Day/dp/125035823X" target="_blank">
7856        Buy Now
7857      </a>
7858    </div>
7859  </div>
7860  
7861                 <!-- BOOK 31 -->
7862  <div class="book-item">
7863    <div class="book-cover">
7864      <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Self-Help-Serial-Killers-Asia-Mackay/dp/B0FPVYHFZ1" target="_blank">
7865        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/818TSfJvZcL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Self-Help for Serial Killers – Asia Mackay">
7866      </a>
7867    </div>
7868    <div class="book-details">
7869      <div class="book-title">
7870        <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Self-Help-Serial-Killers-Asia-Mackay/dp/B0FPVYHFZ1" target="_blank">Self-Help for Serial Killers – Asia Mackay</a>
7871      </div>
7872      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> June 16, 2026</div>
7873      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Dark Comedy Thriller</div>
7874      <div class="book-summary">
7875        An assassin trying to balance motherhood with a hit list becomes the target of a mysterious organization. A darkly comedic, action-packed satire that packs a serious punch.
7876      </div>
7877      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.com/Self-Help-Serial-Killers-Asia-Mackay/dp/B0FPVYHFZ1" target="_blank">
7878        Buy Now
7879      </a>
7880    </div>
7881  </div>
7882  
7883                 <!-- BOOK 32 -->
7884  <div class="book-item">
7885    <div class="book-cover">
7886      <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Exit-Wound-Isabella-Maldonado/dp/1662536674/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35N3S0SW70XVW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._-_wElzK5OaemWc72y6MBV3ePJ0WczDlFBDcgp0RcEVbjtBhHJoRRaAVmgd36YrVkofyIF2v3152X3ScLj8zCsU7W1eb4w9BLyXPr64zqMM.hEhbb2QnEXsfbN0l5mTGZzS3KuM1IgtiV3xeK6TJvYc&dib_tag=se&keywords=isabella+maldonado+exit&qid=1774812368&sprefix=isabella+maldonado+exi%2Caps%2C271&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7887        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71fM8Ha2IrL._SL1500_.jpg" alt="Exit Wound – Isabella Maldonado">
7888      </a>
7889    </div>
7890    <div class="book-details">
7891      <div class="book-title">
7892        <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Exit-Wound-Isabella-Maldonado/dp/1662536674/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35N3S0SW70XVW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._-_wElzK5OaemWc72y6MBV3ePJ0WczDlFBDcgp0RcEVbjtBhHJoRRaAVmgd36YrVkofyIF2v3152X3ScLj8zCsU7W1eb4w9BLyXPr64zqMM.hEhbb2QnEXsfbN0l5mTGZzS3KuM1IgtiV3xeK6TJvYc&dib_tag=se&keywords=isabella+maldonado+exit&qid=1774812368&sprefix=isabella+maldonado+exi%2Caps%2C271&sr=8-1" target="_blank">Exit Wound – Isabella Maldonado</a>
7893      </div>
7894      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Publication Date:</strong> June 23, 2026</div>
7895      <div class="book-meta"><strong>Genre:</strong> Police Procedural</div>
7896      <div class="book-summary">
7897        FBI Agent Nina Guerrera hunts a killer who turns his crimes into viral social media spectacles. A high-tech, heart-pounding race against a terrifyingly modern predator.
7898      </div>
7899      <a class="buy-button" href="https://www.amazon.ca/Exit-Wound-Isabella-Maldonado/dp/1662536674/ref=sr_1_1?crid=35N3S0SW70XVW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._-_wElzK5OaemWc72y6MBV3ePJ0WczDlFBDcgp0RcEVbjtBhHJoRRaAVmgd36YrVkofyIF2v3152X3ScLj8zCsU7W1eb4w9BLyXPr64zqMM.hEhbb2QnEXsfbN0l5mTGZzS3KuM1IgtiV3xeK6TJvYc&dib_tag=se&keywords=isabella+maldonado+exit&qid=1774812368&sprefix=isabella+maldonado+exi%2Caps%2C271&sr=8-1" target="_blank">
7900        Buy Now
7901      </a>
7902    </div>
7903  </div>
7904  
7905<div style="max-width: 700px; font-family: 'Georgia', serif; color: #333; line-height: 1.7; font-size: 16px; margin-top: 10px; border-top: 1px solid #eee; padding-top: 30px;">
7906  <p>
7907    Whether you’re looking for a chilling <strong>Scandi-noir</strong> for a rainy spring day or a fast-paced <strong>domestic thriller</strong> for a weekend getaway, Spring 2026 is clearly delivering the goods. This season’s lineup is packed with enough gaslighting, family secrets, and high-stakes tension to keep any thriller lover’s TBR pile dangerously high.
7908  </p>
7909
7910  <p style="background: #f7f3ef; padding: 20px; border-radius: 12px; margin: 25px 0;">
7911    <strong>I’d love to hear from you!</strong> Which of these Spring 2026 releases are you hitting "Pre-order" on? Is there a specific twist or trope you’re craving this month? 
7912    <br><br>
7913    Drop a comment below and let me know what you’re reading first. If you found your next obsession on this list, don't forget to <strong>

7913save this post to Pinterest</strong> or share it with your favorite reading group!
7914  </p>
7915
7916  <p style="font-size: 14px; color: #777; text-align: center; margin-top: 40px;">
7917    <em>Happy reading, fellow introverts! 🖤</em>
7918  </p>
7919
7920</div>
7921
7922
7923&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/5238799964456401076/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/30-must-read-mystery-thriller-books.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/5238799964456401076'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/5238799964456401076'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/04/30-must-read-mystery-thriller-books.html' title='🔎 30+ Must-Read Mystery &amp; Thriller Books | Coming Spring 2026'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji6syfmAxhfUhXhhJuQFeDhaYH0SyVcpRa4RtZKTqut_u1VF3gdAX5Y_ZojZ8MCjCot4RGkZXriKDQxml1vhUiR2hHw7RpL7qKS6uYDQJ0Z1zWb2R-1enOOw75dETiORsz079u-uSamMDpSdO_bkEXnnVG8YxtW2sYZIZEGVAnLEnLk-2BV3DO8bXCtjM/s1600/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-6343106053381867945</id><published>2026-03-31T08:00:00.028-06:00</published><updated>2026-04-01T19:47:20.481-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="2026Favorites"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="RomanticSuspense"/><title type='text'>Family Lies by Karen Rose | Book Spotlight</title><content type='html'>&lt;!DOCTYPE html&gt;
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7928&lt;title&gt;Book Spotlight — Family Lies by Karen Rose&lt;/title&gt;
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8365  /* ── COMMUNITY REVIEWS ───────────────────────────────── */
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8427  /* ── WHO SHOULD READ ─────────────────────────────────── */
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8463  /* ── SIMILAR READS ───────────────────────────────────── */
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8510  /* ── SERIES BANNER ───────────────────────────────────── */
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8646  /* ── FOOTER STRIPE ───────────────────────────────────── */
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8677  /* ── RESPONSIVE ──────────────────────────────────────── */
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8693</head>
8694<body>
8695<div class="page-wrap">
8696  
8697  <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg
8698" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg
8699" style="display:none;"/></a>
8700
8701  <!-- ══ BLOG LABEL ══════════════════════════════════════ -->
8702  <div class="section-heading fade-1">
8703    <span>Book Spotlight</span>
8704  </div>
8705
8706  <!-- ══ HERO CARD ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
8707  <div class="hero-card fade-2">
8708    <div class="cover-side">
8709      <div class="cover-wrap">
8710        <img src="https://m.media-amazon.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1754706772i/237693306.jpg" alt="Family Lies by Karen Rose">
8711      </div>
8712      <div class="stars">
8713        <svg class="star"

8713 viewBox="0 0 24 24"><polygon points="12,2 15.09,8.26 22,9.27 17,14.14 18.18,21.02 12,17.77 5.82,21.02 7,14.14 2,9.27 8.91,8.26"/></svg>
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8718      </div>
8719      <p class="rating-text">4.07 on Goodreads<br>59 ratings</p>
8720      <div class="series-badge">San Diego Case Files<br>Book 4</div>
8721    </div>
8722
8723    <div class="content-side">
8724      <p class="book-meta">Karen Rose • Berkley Publishing • March 31, 2026</p>
8725      <h1 class="book-title"><em>Family</em> Lies</h1>
8726      <p class="book-author">by Karen Rose</p>
8727      <div class="divider"></div>
8728      <p class="synopsis-short">
8729        A phone call. A doorstep. A dead woman. When Kit McKittrick's foster sister Akiko is lured into a deadly trap while searching for her birth mother, Kit refuses to stand down, even after being shot, placed on medical leave, and pulled from the case. The fourth nerve-shattering installment of the San Diego Case Files is the most personal yet.
8730      </p>
8731      <div class="tags">
8732        <span class="tag">Mystery</span>
8733        <span class="tag">Romantic Suspense</span>
8734        <span class="tag">Police Procedural</span>
8735        <span class="tag">Found Family</span>
8736        <span class="tag">Slow Burn Romance</span>
8737      </div>
8738      <div class="info-row">
8739        <div class="info-item">
8740          <span class="info-label">Pages</span>
8741          <span class="info-value">528</span>
8742        </div>
8743        <div class="info-item">
8744          <span class="info-label">Pub Date</span>
8745          <span class="info-value">Mar 31, 2026</span>
8746        </div>
8747        <div class="info-item">
8748          <span class="info-label">Publisher</span>
8749          <span class="info-value">Berkley</span>
8750        </div>
8751      </div>
8752    </div>
8753  </div>
8754
8755  <!-- ══ FULL SYNOPSIS ════════════════════════════════════ -->
8756  <div class="subheading-bar fade-3"><span>The Story</span></div>
8757  <div class="synopsis-section fade-3">
8758    <p>As an infant, Kit McKittrick's foster sister Akiko was abandoned at a firehouse. Now 32, Akiko receives an unsettling phone call from a woman named Mary Sherman, who claims to know her birth mother, but refuses to share anything more except in person. Nervous but hopeful, Akiko agrees to meet, and Kit insists on coming along.</p>
8759    <p>Kit's instincts are rarely wrong. As the three of them stand on Mary Sherman's doorstep, shots ring out. Kit is hit. And when they push inside the house, they find Mary Sherman herself, dead.</p>
8760    <p>Officially placed on medical leave and ordered off the case, Kit refuses to walk away. With police psychologist Sam Reeves by her side and her retired partner Baz working the shadows, Kit begins a covert investigation into Mary Sherman's past. Who was she, really? Why did she reach out after all these years? And who had a motive to silence her before she could talk?</p>
8761    <p>As more bodies surface and the danger grows closer to home, Kit starts piecing together a terrifying puzzle, one that raises the question of whether some secrets should have stayed buried after all.</p>
8762  </div>
8763
8764  <!-- ══ PULL QUOTE ════════════════════════════════════════ -->
8765  <div class="pull-quote-section fade-4">
8766    <p>Family isn’t always blood. It’s the people in your life who want you in theirs. The ones who accept you for who you are. The ones who would do anything to see you smile, and who love you no matter what.</p>
8767    <cite>— Maya Angelou</cite>
8768  </div>
8769
8770  <!-- ══ DETAILS GRID ═════════════════════════════════════ -->
8771  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Book Details</span></div>
8772  <div class="details-grid fade-4">
8773    <div class="detail-block">
8774      <h3>What You'll Find Inside</h3>
8775      <ul>
8776        <li>A gripping police procedural with emotional heart</li>
8777        <li>A slow-burn romance that earns every moment</li>
8778        <li>A found family bond tested under fire</li>
8779        <li>Multi-generational family secrets unraveling</li>
8780        <li>A cast of richly developed recurring characters</li>
8781      </ul>
8782    </div>
8783    <div class="detail-block">
8784      <h3>Content Warnings</h3>
8785      <div>
8786        <span class="cw-tag">Gun violence</span>
8787        <span class="cw-tag">Murder</span>
8788        <span class="cw-tag">Abandonment</span>
8789        <span class="cw-tag">Death of side characters</span>
8790        <span class="cw-tag">Childhood trauma (referenced)</span>
8791        <span class="cw-tag">Mild peril</span>
8792      </div>
8793    </div>
8794    <div class="detail-block">
8795      <h3>Standalone Friendly?</h3>
8796      <p>Yes, while best enjoyed in series order, Karen Rose does an excellent job weaving in backstory so new readers can follow along.</p>
8797    </div>
8798    <div class="detail-block">
8799      <h3>Romance Level</h3>
8800      <p>Low heat, high emotional depth. Kit and Sam's relationship is a slow burn across the full series. Expect meaningful moments, protective tension, and genuine emotional intimacy rather than steam.</p>
8801    </div>
8802  </div>
8803
8804  <!-- ══ TROPE METER ═══════════════════════════════════════ -->
8805  <div class="subheading-bar fade-4"><span>Trope Meter</span></div>
8806  <div class="trope-meter fade-4">
8807    <div class="trope-row">
8808      <span class="trope-name">Found Family</span>
8809      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:95%"></div></div>
8810      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
8811    </div>
8812    <div class="trope-row">
8813      <span class="trope-name">Slow Burn Romance</span>
8814      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:85%"></div></div>
8815      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
8816    </div>
8817    <div class="trope-row">
8818      <span class="trope-name">Forbidden Investigation</span>
8819      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:90%"></div></div>
8820      <span class="trope-level">Very High</span>
8821    </div>
8822    <div class="trope-row">
8823      <span class="trope-name">Twisty Family Secrets</span>
8824      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:88%"></div></div>
8825      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
8826    </div>
8827    <div class="trope-row">
8828      <span class="trope-name">Heat / Steam</span>
8829      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:15%"></div></div>
8830      <span class="trope-level">Low</span>
8831    </div>
8832    <div class="trope-row">
8833      <span class="trope-name">Action & Danger</span>
8834      <div class="trope-bar-bg"><div class="trope-bar-fill" style="width:82%"></div></div>
8835      <span class="trope-level">High</span>
8836    </div>
8837  </div>
8838
8839  <!-- ══ WHO SHOULD READ ══════════════════════════════════ -->
8840  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>Who Should Read This</span></div>
8841  <div class="who-section fade-5">
8842    <div class="who-grid">
8843      <div class="who-card">
8844        <span class="who-icon">📚</span>
8845        <span class="who-text">Fans of Karen Rose who have already fallen for Kit and Sam, this installment deepens every thread.</span>
8846      </div>
8847      <div class="who-card">
8848        <span class="who-icon">🔍</span>
8849        <span class="who-text">Readers who love police procedurals with strong, stubborn female detectives who refuse to follow the rules.</span>
8850      </div>
8851      <div class="who-card">
8852        <span class="who-icon">🩷</span>
8853        <span class="who-text">Romance readers who prefer emotional slow-burn over heat, the relationship tension here is deeply satisfying.</span>
8854      </div>
8855      <div class="who-card">
8856        <span class="who-icon">🌿</span>
8857        <span class="who-text">Anyone who loves found family narratives, the McKittrick family dynamics are the emotional backbone of this story.</span>
8858      </div>
8859      <div class="who-card">
8860        <span class="who-icon">🌀</span>
8861        <span class="who-text">Mystery lovers who enjoy layered, twisty plots where every answer opens up three more questions.</span>
8862      </div>
8863      <div class="who-card">
8864        <span class="who-icon">✨</span>
8865        <span class="who-text">New readers curious about the series.</span>
8866      </div>
8867    </div>
8868  </div>
8869
8870  <!-- ══ SIMILAR READS ════════════════════════════════════ -->
8871  <div class="subheading-bar fade-5"><span>If You Liked This, Try</span></div>
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8894  <div class="series-banner fade-6">
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8940&lt;/html&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/6343106053381867945/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/family-lies-by-karen-rose-book-spotlight.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/6343106053381867945'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/6343106053381867945'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/family-lies-by-karen-rose-book-spotlight.html' title='Family Lies by Karen Rose | Book Spotlight'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

8940<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCfFeLw4JvGJ_jMvjUlwNk2jetXUNvViKH6oyzqTnVgT4L74WsOAjDxVzHvKI7eg-P6LvqpvUiAjUP6vZGNfztYqbPkzUwg7mFisoKUoxnLi4ck_agg1U5uJM0Cf_MAiIDpEe_VLRwBbNLsud13I4SIVZcEk3WdTmFPvXsccAGYSQlWaFNU8e2n-d9O58/s1600/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.jpg&#xa;" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-4979059382518022498</id><published>2026-03-29T11:48:00.003-06:00</published><updated>2026-03-29T11:49:12.792-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Fiction"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><title type='text'>The Handyman by Britney King ARC Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;img alt=&quot;&quot; border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;5712&quot; data-original-width=&quot;4284&quot; height=&quot;400&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszdsgfhPg-zTIYDw0EMne69bswVVxhWew7BoJhKMF9eBHyfG8QnUOKIFyXNCRcukprDsogPftkdfmXb9lCp2fDfCrJ7C9uuJJ0TLMSaXX1on95e62zSpkbBxvsEdrCWCCqePXNvrg4D5U_2WgUoQ_mruXaLQFQYu_w2Ck-gV4h5TRRUHA4YHzmWPY18s/s400/IMG_7144.jpeg&quot; /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: left;&quot;&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;374&quot; data-start=&quot;73&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;em data-end=&quot;87&quot; data-start=&quot;73&quot;&gt;The Handyman&lt;/em&gt; was such an engaging and fast-paced read that completely hooked me from the very first page. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;It&lt;/span&gt; had me constantly turning pages, needing to know what was going to happen next—and I genuinely loved that feeling of being pulled so deeply into the story.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
8941&lt;p data-end=&quot;741&quot; data-start=&quot;376&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;One of my favorite aspects was the way both main characters were written with layers of mystery. I kept questioning their motives, wondering if they were truly as twisted as they seemed or if it was all part of a bigger plan to distract from the eventual plot twist. That sense of uncertainty added a lot of tension and made the reading experience really enjoyable.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
8942&lt;p data-end=&quot;1145&quot; data-start=&quot;743&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;That said, while I had a great time reading this book, it didn’t quite reach that unforgettable “wow” level for me—the kind that leaves you in a full book hangover. The premise, though entertaining, felt a bit familiar. The idea of kidnapping someone you believe you love, hoping that captivity will somehow make them return those feelings, is intriguing but also something that’s been explored before.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
8943&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Overall, &lt;em data-end=&quot;1170&quot; data-start=&quot;1156&quot;&gt;The Handyman&lt;/em&gt; is a gripping and entertaining psychological thriller that delivers on suspense and intrigue. Even if it didn’t completely blow me away, it was still a very enjoyable read that I’d definitely recommend to fans of twisty, character-driven stories.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Thank you to the &lt;a href=&quot;https://britneyking.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;author &lt;/a&gt;for my digital ARC in exchange for a review. As always, my reviews are my own and unbiased opinions.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1417&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1147&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/4979059382518022498/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/the-handyman-by-britney-king-arc-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4979059382518022498'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/4979059382518022498'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/the-handyman-by-britney-king-arc-review.html' title='The Handyman by Britney King ARC Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

8943<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhszdsgfhPg-zTIYDw0EMne69bswVVxhWew7BoJhKMF9eBHyfG8QnUOKIFyXNCRcukprDsogPftkdfmXb9lCp2fDfCrJ7C9uuJJ0TLMSaXX1on95e62zSpkbBxvsEdrCWCCqePXNvrg4D5U_2WgUoQ_mruXaLQFQYu_w2Ck-gV4h5TRRUHA4YHzmWPY18s/s72-c/IMG_7144.jpeg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-1200590175783761734</id><published>2026-03-22T08:00:00.021-06:00</published><updated>2026-03-22T08:00:00.114-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><title type='text'>Dark August by Katie Tallo | Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgechT2nJcBMVpI9IErA5sbgP0TU9g5uW72OorTLod2aYmuRISUkSEKHhwTysqEs1Qj9PQ3nt85CNnCseLTVKiqxS0Fh76PbSOnq5TXlQu8RrT5FO8OTWh78FNziHDCM53LImKHu1RMGL-fiFrNgIsz2SIlrUlZ_qKJ03--5tN9JPTq97lyFivi_Zdg/s5184/DARK%20AUGUST%20-%20TALLO,%20KATIE.jpg&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;3456&quot; data-original-width=&quot;5184&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgechT2nJcBMVpI9IErA5sbgP0TU9g5uW72OorTLod2aYmuRISUkSEKHhwTysqEs1Qj9PQ3nt85CNnCseLTVKiqxS0Fh76PbSOnq5TXlQu8RrT5FO8OTWh78FNziHDCM53LImKHu1RMGL-fiFrNgIsz2SIlrUlZ_qKJ03--5tN9JPTq97lyFivi_Zdg/s16000/DARK%20AUGUST%20-%20TALLO,%20KATIE.jpg&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52167189-dark-august?from_search=true&amp;amp;from_srp=true&amp;amp;qid=cw9I4hCBQB&amp;amp;rank=1&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Dark August&lt;/a&gt; | &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19214069.Katie_Tallo&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Katie Tallo&lt;/a&gt; | &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.harpercollins.ca/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Harper Collins&lt;/a&gt; |&amp;nbsp;&lt;b&gt;Pub&lt;/b&gt;: June 30, 2020 |&amp;nbsp;&lt;b&gt;Pages&lt;/b&gt;: 448&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJv6jw5rgWwQKKhTcvCu4E4pNoW3nst-xgkayXjb083Ux7VllE_An6bKW-ISVZvkaeDYa0KAnBP0xWPb-RV_9_fhxD-S_JxXDVAg4FI9xdPB3WL00loWEdZJed-oP-ALXnn2RoQcgE-ETTvtF6If64DVB1ubeuRXBvF0qLNJh9SdAbNkndYKlgiuae/s250/4.0%20stars_New.PNG&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;118&quot; data-original-width=&quot;250&quot; height=&quot;118&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJv6jw5rgWwQKKhTcvCu4E4pNoW3nst-xgkayXjb083Ux7VllE_An6bKW-ISVZvkaeDYa0KAnBP0xWPb-RV_9_fhxD-S_JxXDVAg4FI9xdPB3WL00loWEdZJed-oP-ALXnn2RoQcgE-ETTvtF6If64DVB1ubeuRXBvF0qLNJh9SdAbNkndYKlgiuae/s1600/4.0%20stars_New.PNG&quot; width=&quot;250&quot; /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Dark August by Katie Tallo was a really solid mystery that I ended up enjoying a lot, even if it took me a bit to get into.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;The story follows Gus, who goes back to her hometown after her great-grandmother dies and ends up digging into her mother’s old cold case. I really liked Gus as a main character. She’s a bit messy at the start, but you can see her grow as she gets deeper into the investigation. I honestly would love to keep reading her adventures because she’s such an interesting character.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;One of my favorite parts was the setting. I loved that it takes place in local Ontario towns, and since I grew up there, it made the whole story feel more real and easy to picture. That small-town vibe really added to the mystery.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;The pacing is definitely slow. It’s a slow burn for a good chunk of the book, and not a ton happens at first, which made it drag a bit for me. But once it picks up, it gets way more interesting. There are some good twists, and while I guessed a couple things, there was still a plot twist that kept me hooked until the end. Reviews mention the same kind of slow build that eventually pays off, especially near the ending.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Overall, this is a strong debut from a Canadian author with a great atmosphere, a likable main character, and a twisty mystery. It’s a bit slow, but worth it if you stick with it.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52167189-dark-august?from_search=true&amp;amp;from_srp=true&amp;amp;qid=cw9I4hCBQB&amp;amp;rank=1&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Synopsis&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;An electrifying, page-turning debut about a young woman haunted by her tragic past, who returns to her hometown and discovers that there might be more to her police detective mother&#39;s death--and last case--than she ever could have imagined.Augusta (Gus) Monet is living an aimless existence with her grifter boyfriend when she learns that her great grandmother--her last living relative--has just died. Ditching her boyfriend, Gus returns to the home she left as a young girl. Her inheritance turns out to be a dilapidated house and an old dog named Levi. While combing through her great grandmother&#39;s possessions, Gus stumbles across an old trunk filled with long-lost childhood belongings. But that&#39;

8943s not all the trunk contains. She also discovers cold case files that belonged to her mother, a disgraced police detective who died in a car accident when Gus was eight. Gus remembers her mother obsessing over these very same documents and photographs, especially a Polaroid of a young ballerina.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">When Gus spots a front-page news story about the unearthing of a body linked to one of the cold case files from her childhood trunk, she can't resist following her mother's clues. As she digs deeper, determined to finish her mother's investigation, her search leads her to a deserted ghost town, which was left abandoned when the residents fled after a horrific fire. As Gus' obsession with the case grows, she inadvertently stirs up the evils of the past, putting her life in danger. But Gus is undeterred and is committed to uncovering long-buried secrets, including the secrets surrounding a missing geology student, the young ballerina in the Polaroid, a prominent family's devastating legacy, and a toxic blast that blew an entire town off the map.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">But is Gus ready to learn the truths that culminated on one terrible August night, more than a decade earlier, when lives were taken, and secrets were presumed buried forever...?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Dark August introduces a bold new voice and will leave readers guessing until the final startling conclusion.</span></p><p><span style="color: #0000ee; text-decoration-line: underline;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">@anintrovertreads</span></span></p>
8944
8945<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Dark-August-Novel-Katie-Tallo/dp/0062948040" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh7Gzbjzxgnhy46UW5PMiS7FYJjDbrGBabxRmGzYvd1tN2bMmzsgfoJbASwsUjHgWN8NA4vJrnsZ1LGmAnNf-jIIS5bJg060tuE4p6V2kxtpA3Jfmf1DGJjY1MxiOloBdr4ehK5WwlkWOB4pFdtgWWVVTXtR6tm8MZOuSeKR1g-WjDL-oW3dxTm4GXIZY/w200-h200/Untitled%20design%20(2).png" width="200" /></a></div>
8946
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8970      <div class="bcw-slide">
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9233</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/1200590175783761734/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/dark-august-by-katie-tallo-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1200590175783761734'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1200590175783761734'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/dark-august-by-katie-tallo-review.html' title='Dark August by Katie Tallo | Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgechT2nJcBMVpI9IErA5sbgP0TU9g5uW72OorTLod2aYmuRISUkSEKHhwTysqEs1Qj9PQ3nt85CNnCseLTVKiqxS0Fh76PbSOnq5TXlQu8RrT5FO8OTWh78FNziHDCM53LImKHu1RMGL-fiFrNgIsz2SIlrUlZ_qKJ03--5tN9JPTq97lyFivi_Zdg/s72-c/DARK%20AUGUST%20-%20TALLO,%20KATIE.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-1163145593880762468</id><published>2026-03-19T20:25:00.001-06:00</published><updated>2026-03-19T20:25:14.879-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="CozyMystery"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Series"/><title type='text'> Truly Devious Series by Maureen Johnson | Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjloNTD5M_JM9GGwMawhFpoHwl80Scj6w78Y6s_S_WyHRrPv4B6ZfmH1h14VnvaaH1HS1zeDp7GGLU8bVTOCBogXcJycUl0j3am91iWJXlb2w33f6_EC0vjZrBo7UQ4k9Qpmxx-j3SGoCc8z_gZPx3YN-HMAxwW9Bv9x3X0sAIMD35hiUdQ9kpCVFhB2BE/s1080/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.png&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1080&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjloNTD5M_JM9GGwMawhFpoHwl80Scj6w78Y6s_S_WyHRrPv4B6ZfmH1h14VnvaaH1HS1zeDp7GGLU8bVTOCBogXcJycUl0j3am91iWJXlb2w33f6_EC0vjZrBo7UQ4k9Qpmxx-j3SGoCc8z_gZPx3YN-HMAxwW9Bv9x3X0sAIMD35hiUdQ9kpCVFhB2BE/s16000/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.png&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: left;&quot;&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Welcome to my little corner of the internet where I&#39;ll be reviewing and summarizing every book in the Truly Devious series by Maureen Johnson. If you&#39;re into mysteries, quirky characters, and a boarding school with a seriously dark history, you&#39;re in the right place.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;So here&#39;s the basic setup: the series follows Stevie Bell, a true crime-obsessed teenager who gets into Ellingham Ac

9233ademy, this weird, wonderful school in Vermont that was founded by a super rich eccentric guy back in the 1930s. The thing is, the school has a famous unsolved mystery attached to it. The founder's wife and daughter were kidnapped, a student was killed, and the person behind it all was never caught. They called themselves "Truly Devious." Stevie is determined to figure out who did it. And then, of course, people start dying again right after she shows up. Classic.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">What I love about this series is that it actually feels like a real mystery, not dumbed down, but not trying too hard either. Stevie feels like a real person too. She has anxiety, she makes questionable decisions, and she's just really, really passionate about solving things. It's a fun read that also somehow keeps you seriously tense.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I'll be posting reviews and summaries of each book, so whether you're just starting out or already a fan, stick around!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWWfxszhlb5Uaiqdhqy1yb1QTZVN3cJC82cnKpshIvbX2_kRvFzLSNORYoGl2xdYVcgKFDSrGkYFpDXRb3mfDc5p0TLOpjz5PO7PrFB4dgbMVBYlLa1K5Biewu_QuDmf_Qp-Jx-ivddEvCXPeSRDnyD7Liv1qMFMZVPSCUcFdvTw-6yFrnif9x-UA/s2560/81dj5+aTjnL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1725" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVWWfxszhlb5Uaiqdhqy1yb1QTZVN3cJC82cnKpshIvbX2_kRvFzLSNORYoGl2xdYVcgKFDSrGkYFpDXRb3mfDc5p0TLOpjz5PO7PrFB4dgbMVBYlLa1K5Biewu_QuDmf_Qp-Jx-ivddEvCXPeSRDnyD7Liv1qMFMZVPSCUcFdvTw-6yFrnif9x-UA/s16000/81dj5+aTjnL.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/176421-truly-devious" target="_blank">Book #1</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29589074-truly-devious" target="_blank">Truly Devious</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10317.Maureen_Johnson" target="_blank">Maureen Johnson</a> | <a href="https://www.harpercollins.ca/" target="_blank">Harper Collins</a> | <b>Pub</b>: January 16, 2018 | <b>Pages</b>: 416</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrraJDyJB7_gp0XB9siYnkKE_GzB3iq3kqv6cHwm1y3HAGVZw32PUSeIcYFTfsogrCdaFcT6hH63IUC0RT5vMR01eklraVPxuENOdpwL1fqIFMBFobxEC26orBm7D3mONfUqO0KZGoc12ysVsl-59gJTmLy1HyQcYu9vbuwOipCyTqmtsb0otjTCYw/s253/4.5%20stars_New.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="118" data-original-width="253" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrraJDyJB7_gp0XB9siYnkKE_GzB3iq3kqv6cHwm1y3HAGVZw32PUSeIcYFTfsogrCdaFcT6hH63IUC0RT5vMR01eklraVPxuENOdpwL1fqIFMBFobxEC26orBm7D3mONfUqO0KZGoc12ysVsl-59gJTmLy1HyQcYu9vbuwOipCyTqmtsb0otjTCYw/s1600/4.5%20stars_New.PNG" width="253" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">This is book #1 from the Truly Devious series. This book has been on my TBR since 2018 and I 

9233just always pushed it further down the list, but I’m so glad I finally decided to read this book this year. It was really good and I just can’t wait to read the rest of the series!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">First of all, this book got me right from the beginning with the setting; an old private school in Vermont made only for the brightest thinkers, inventors, and artists. Stevie’s character was just the cherry on top for me! She’s a wannabe detective that loves everything murder/crime-related and knows everything there is to know about Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There were a lot of characters to get to know in this book, but once I got around to remembering all the characters' names, I really ended up loving the other characters as well. I’m curious to see if they will make an apparency in the second installment.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">There were multiple storylines, all of which was truly mysterious. It definitely reminded me of an Agatha Christie book. There’s so much left to be discovered in the next books, I can’t wait for the stories to unravel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The only reason this isn’t a 5 star, is because of the ending. There were still so many questions left unanswered and the story didn’t get further ahead really. However, I believe since this is Book 1, this was basically a 400-page story setup. Overall great premise, great characters, great story! Highly Recommend.</div></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29589074-truly-devious" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Synopsis</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Ellingham Academy is a famous private school in Vermont for the brightest thinkers, inventors, and artists. It was founded by Albert Ellingham, an early twentieth century tycoon, who wanted to make a wonderful place full of riddles, twisting pathways, and gardens. “A place,” he said, “where learning is a game.”</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Shortly after the school opened, his wife and daughter were kidnapped. The only real clue was a mocking riddle listing methods of murder, signed with the frightening pseudonym “Truly, Devious.” It became one of the great unsolved crimes of American history.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">True-crime aficionado Stevie Bell is set to begin her first year at Ellingham Ac

9233ademy, and she has an ambitious plan: She will solve this cold case. That is, she will solve the case when she gets a grip on her demanding new school life and her housemates: the inventor, the novelist, the actor, the artist, and the jokester. But something strange is happening. Truly Devious makes a surprise return, and death revisits Ellingham Academy. The past has crawled out of its grave. Someone has gotten away with murder. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The two interwoven mysteries of this first book in the Truly Devious series dovetail brilliantly, and Stevie Bell will continue her relentless quest for the murderers in books two and three.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">New York Times bestselling author Maureen Johnson weaves a delicate tale of murder and mystery in the first book of a striking new series, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and E. Lockhart.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF0TVX-85udD1wefPpEpoLjjgWZ-HEJTpj8m4OvdfRcoavUtALA-nncRgnUF0Wem6JQQHSgcRi9HyiwlLJi4RAlqUVH36CTDxLVA3RhGHJR4DRQ-7xxqTQV2eKcUFFM2-Y5I3GLLPYgFvq2uEBbCpMnAYMObLYf5wI4lfxiJf6DoGVZNDNEgm7Wub/s2417/81ZjgcQg92L.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2417" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuF0TVX-85udD1wefPpEpoLjjgWZ-HEJTpj8m4OvdfRcoavUtALA-nncRgnUF0Wem6JQQHSgcRi9HyiwlLJi4RAlqUVH36CTDxLVA3RhGHJR4DRQ-7xxqTQV2eKcUFFM2-Y5I3GLLPYgFvq2uEBbCpMnAYMObLYf5wI4lfxiJf6DoGVZNDNEgm7Wub/s16000/81ZjgcQg92L.jpg" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/176421-truly-devious" target="_blank">Book #2</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39893545-the-vanishing-stair" target="_blank">The Vanishing Stairs</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10317.Maureen_Johnson" target="_blank">Maureen Johnson</a> | <a href="https://www.harpercollins.ca/" target="_blank">Harper Collins</a> | <b>Pub</b>: January 22, 2019 | <b>Pages</b>: 369</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIs5xVy0w4QV4_jPDH_crDfYX15bjFdDFAZHelUaVMgRVVc1JV4lUuIvJo9nQ2U1NpGbz7jEuw57tM7WlHvIM8YmpIZXgxV1N8DsgP1mRaGUopUeDe65CIPmwn494rlefBTWATStpRFolc1wXdrYBH1MuyTQohQwUW9lqz_fEY231grLJjzMtcK_Y/s250/4.0%20stars_New.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="118" data-original-width="250" height="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIs5xVy0w4QV4_jPDH_crDfYX15bjFdDFAZHelUaVMgRVVc1JV4lUuIvJo9nQ2U1NpGbz7jEuw57tM7WlHvIM8YmpIZXgxV1N8DsgP1mRaGUopUeDe65CIPmwn494rlefBTWATStpRFolc1wXdrYBH1MuyTQohQwUW9lqz_fEY231grLJjzMtcK_Y/s1600/4.0%20stars_New.PNG" width="250" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The Vanishing Stair by Maureen Johnson was a really solid sequel, even if it didn’t fully live up to the first book for me. I still really enjoyed being back in this world and with these characters.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The story picks up right after the first book, with Stevie trying to get back to Ellingham Ac

9233ademy and continue solving the Truly Devious case. There are still multiple mysteries going on, both in the past and present, and I liked how everything slowly connects together.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I still really like Stevie as a main character! She’s smart, determined, and a little obsessive in a way that makes sense for someone trying to solve a huge mystery. The side characters are fun too, especially Nate, but I do wish we got a bit more depth from some of them. The relationships, especially the romance, felt a little off at times.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The biggest issue for me was the pacing. It felt pretty slow for a lot of the book, and honestly not a ton actually happens until closer to the end. It kind of felt like a “middle book” in a series where it’s setting things up more than delivering answers.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">That said, I was never bored enough to stop reading. The writing style makes it easy to keep going, and there are still twists and reveals that kept me interested. The ending especially picks up and leaves you really wanting the next book.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">If you like mystery series like A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder or even a darker, boarding school version of Nancy Drew, you’ll probably enjoy this.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Overall, even though it was slower and felt like a bridge between books, I still had a good time with it and I’m definitely continuing the series.</span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39893545-the-vanishing-stair" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Synopsis</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">All Stevie Bell wanted was to find the key to the Ellingham mystery, but instead she found her classmate dead. And while she solved that murder, the crimes of the past are still waiting in the dark. Just as Stevie feels she’s on the cusp of putting it together, her parents pull her out of Ellingham academy.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">For her own safety they say. She must move past this obsession with crime. Now that Stevie’s away from the school of topiaries and secret tunnels, and her strange and endearing friends, she begins to feel disconnected from the rest of the world. At least she won’t have to see David anymore. David, who she kissed. David, who lied to her about his i

9233dentity—son of despised politician Edward King. Then King himself arrives at her house to offer a deal: He will bring Stevie back to Ellingham immediately. In return, she must play nice with David. King is in the midst of a campaign and can’t afford his son stirring up trouble. If Stevie’s at school, David will stay put.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The tantalizing riddles behind the Ellingham murders are still waiting to be unraveled, and Stevie knows she’s so close. But the path to the truth has more twists and turns than she can imagine—and moving forward involves hurting someone she cares for. In New York Times bestselling author Maureen Johnson’s second novel of the Truly Devious series, nothing is free, and someone will pay for the truth with their life.</span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOFRzdksYS21iwMsZV46GCbs4CQ63whmmyH1gcFtv2EJu7BIEMZl3aWtitiXgc4g4jbQdjANx_PebYKyaRh_5u3pMrG47yw6E9HgXqQsKRYFoCu1uza7K_cCrMoC5brVfK_S04SDKgkgyeNzb09ew-oyvVxUZ0PRm70cHzOTe5NVCf7EldWRqeyLAJ/s2409/819BqX9rbtL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2409" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOFRzdksYS21iwMsZV46GCbs4CQ63whmmyH1gcFtv2EJu7BIEMZl3aWtitiXgc4g4jbQdjANx_PebYKyaRh_5u3pMrG47yw6E9HgXqQsKRYFoCu1uza7K_cCrMoC5brVfK_S04SDKgkgyeNzb09ew-oyvVxUZ0PRm70cHzOTe5NVCf7EldWRqeyLAJ/s16000/819BqX9rbtL.jpg" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/176421-truly-devious" target="_blank">Book #3</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45240918-the-hand-on-the-wall" target="_blank">The Hand on the Wall</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10317.Maureen_Johnson" target="_blank">Maureen Johnson</a> | <a href="https://www.harpercollins.ca/" target="_blank">Harper Collins</a> | <b>Pub</b>: January 21, 2020 | <b>Pages</b>: 369</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbrI_HHXkyMcqo3eQ-lx_mw-ZULZ5MgBOdhkP0Sr_l4FBMSFUzqEMzunW3sokAWOyQnJhAHSj8FFzfWON8JouGhF-I2P5K2UJsr6zlzdFv9hXYDfOcNRdtH1sy5dP29uUtzEAPM9_evBPuDe85D1SyT5ee2C7caB0J7WE6mXGbjl2oBPeZ7W9ypfM/s258/5%20stars_New.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="125" data-original-width="258" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbrI_HHXkyMcqo3eQ-lx_mw-ZULZ5MgBOdhkP0Sr_l4FBMSFUzqEMzunW3sokAWOyQnJhAHSj8FFzfWON8JouGhF-I2P5K2UJsr6zlzdFv9hXYDfOcNRdtH1sy5dP29uUtzEAPM9_evBPuDe85D1SyT5ee2C7caB0J7WE6mXGbjl2oBPeZ7W9ypfM/s1600/5%20stars_New.PNG" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Okay, this is the finale I was hoping for! After two books of building tension and unanswered questions, The Hand on the Wall finally delivers, and it does not disappoint.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">

9233The biggest win? We finally solve the Ellingham mystery! What actually happened to Alice Ellingham is revealed in this book, and the answer genuinely shocked me. I had theories. They were all wrong. The reveal is clever, heartbreaking, and completely earned. If you've been reading this series for those answers, this is the book that pays everything off.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">What really makes this one stand out is the locked room mystery vibe in the final stretch. A snowstorm rolls in, the school gets evacuated, and suddenly it's just Stevie and a small group of friends stuck inside this giant, creepy, riddle-filled building, with a murderer possibly still on the loose. It felt very Agatha Christie, very And Then There Were None, and I was completely hooked. Suspects everywhere, tension building with every chapter, and a reveal I did not see coming at all.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The characters are a huge reason this series works, and this book is where they really shine. Stevie is such a great protagonist, she has real anxiety, she's awkward, she's obsessed with true crime to a slightly unhinged degree, and she's absolutely brilliant. Watching her grow across three books into someone who confidently corners a killer is so satisfying. Nate is still the best supporting character in YA fiction and I will die on that hill. Even David, who I found frustrating in the earlier books, gets a moment in this one that made me respect him a little more.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The pace is fast once it gets going. The dual timelines, present day and the 1930s flashbacks, weave together really well as both storylines race toward their endings at the same time. The last hundred pages especially? Flew by.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I loved how it all played out! A perfect ending to a really fun trilogy!</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/45240918-the-hand-on-the-wall" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Synopsis</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Ellingham Academy must be cursed. Three people are now dead. One, a victim of either a prank gone wrong or a murder. Another, dead by misadventure. And now, an accident in Burlington has claimed another life. All three in the wrong place at the wrong time. All at the exact moment of Stevie’s greatest triumph . . .</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">She knows who Truly Devious is. She’s solved it. The greatest case of the century.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">At least, she thinks she has. With this latest tragedy, it’s hard to concentrate on the past. Not only has someone died in town, but David disappeared of his own free will and is up to something. Stevie is sure that somehow—somehow—all these things connect. The three deaths in the present. The deaths in the past. The missing Alice Ellingham and the missing David Eastman. Somewhere in this place of riddles and puzzles there must be answers.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Then another accident occurs as a massive storm heads toward Vermont. This is too much for the parents and administrators. Ellingham Ac

9233ademy is evacuated. Obviously, it’s time for Stevie to do something stupid. It’s time to stay on the mountain and face the storm—and a murderer.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">In the tantalizing finale to the Truly Devious trilogy, New York Times bestselling author Maureen Johnson expertly tangles her dual narrative threads and ignites an explosive end for all who’ve walked through Ellingham Academy.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">New York Times bestselling author Maureen Johnson delivers the witty and pulse-pounding conclusion to the Truly Devious series as Stevie Bell solves the mystery that has haunted Ellingham Academy for over 75 years.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFO6hWos6B6fFMXyhhcWJCewHSftn4g-exppVD2tC56fYJxmGs4ZPadFToZUuXMYRzSPV7TeJa_jILF1cB95K6JxxqkG00qMzh_ZhP4pZRYV0dGmG8O0_Rl_wVSp9SnwHvQlhwjmb-nwrkNh8Ze_SPzh33PmIuXKvx_-VSiMpTyWyz07_ROLA_M90m/s2417/91S-kPwAAIS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2417" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFO6hWos6B6fFMXyhhcWJCewHSftn4g-exppVD2tC56fYJxmGs4ZPadFToZUuXMYRzSPV7TeJa_jILF1cB95K6JxxqkG00qMzh_ZhP4pZRYV0dGmG8O0_Rl_wVSp9SnwHvQlhwjmb-nwrkNh8Ze_SPzh33PmIuXKvx_-VSiMpTyWyz07_ROLA_M90m/s16000/91S-kPwAAIS.jpg" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/176421-truly-devious" target="_blank">Book #4</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52716736-the-box-in-the-woods" target="_blank">The Box in the Woods</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10317.Maureen_Johnson" target="_blank">Maureen Johnson</a> | <a href="https://www.harpercollins.ca/" target="_blank">Harper Collins</a> | <b>Pub</b>: June 15, 2021 | <b>Pages</b>: 400</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbrI_HHXkyMcqo3eQ-lx_mw-ZULZ5MgBOdhkP0Sr_l4FBMSFUzqEMzunW3sokAWOyQnJhAHSj8FFzfWON8JouGhF-I2P5K2UJsr6zlzdFv9hXYDfOcNRdtH1sy5dP29uUtzEAPM9_evBPuDe85D1SyT5ee2C7caB0J7WE6mXGbjl2oBPeZ7W9ypfM/s258/5%20stars_New.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="125" data-original-width="258" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbrI_HHXkyMcqo3eQ-lx_mw-ZULZ5MgBOdhkP0Sr_l4FBMSFUzqEMzunW3sokAWOyQnJhAHSj8FFzfWON8JouGhF-I2P5K2UJsr6zlzdFv9hXYDfOcNRdtH1sy5dP29uUtzEAPM9_evBPuDe85D1SyT5ee2C7caB0J7WE6mXGbjl2oBPeZ7W9ypfM/s1600/5%20stars_New.PNG" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I need more Stevie Bell books immediately! A 20-book series would not be enough! Someone tell Maureen Johnson to get writing!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">After finishing the Truly Devious trilogy, I honestly wasn'

9233t sure how Stevie could top what she'd already done. Then this book showed up and completely won me over. The Box in the Woods takes Stevie out of Ellingham Academy and drops her at a summer camp in Vermont where four teenagers were murdered back in 1978, their bodies left in a hunting blind in the woods in what became known as the Box in the Woods Murders. Nobody was ever caught. The new owner of the camp wants Stevie to help crack the cold case for a true crime podcast. Stevie, obviously, says yes immediately.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">What I love about this book is how it nails that old-school mystery feeling. Think Agatha Christie. Think Hercule Poirot gathering everyone in the room and laying it all out. Maureen Johnson actually gives Stevie one of those classic "summation" moments where she pulls it all together, and it is SO satisfying. The mystery itself is dark and genuinely creepy, especially the setup with the camp and the woods at night, but it never loses that sharp, witty tone that makes this series so fun to read. It's got real locked-room mystery energy, and the way the investigation unfolds feels methodical and clever, like watching a proper old-style detective work through the clues one by one.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The story development here is the best in the series so far. Because this mystery is self-contained, start to finish, no cliffhangers, it feels tight and fully satisfying in a way that's really rewarding. The pacing picks up fast and keeps building. The last quarter of the book especially had me absolutely flying through pages. The ending came out of nowhere and I loved every second of it!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The characters continue to be a huge reason to love this series. Stevie is still brilliantly weird and anxious and obsessed with crime in the most endearing way. Nate remains the best character in YA fiction (not up for debate). Having the whole friend group together for the summer, Janelle, Vi, David, all of them, gives the story a warmer, more relaxed energy that makes the creepy mystery stuff hit even harder by contrast. And watching Stevie grow into someone who confidently runs a full murder investigation? So good.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">If you like A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson, One of Us Is Lying by Karen McManus, or literally anything Agatha Christie ever wrote, pick this up. You don't even need to have read the original trilogy first, though you'll absolutely want to after.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">More Stevie Bell. Please. As many as possible!</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52716736-the-box-in-the-woods" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Synopsis</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The Truly Devious series continues as Stevie Bell investigates her first mystery outside of Ellingham Ac

9233ademy in this spine-chilling and hilarious stand-alone mystery.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Amateur sleuth Stevie Bell needs a good murder. After catching a killer at her high school, she’s back at home for a normal (that means boring) summer.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">But then she gets a message from the owner of Sunny Pines, formerly known as Camp Wonder Falls—the site of the notorious unsolved case, the Box in the Woods Murders. Back in 1978, four camp counselors were killed in the woods outside of the town of Barlow Corners, their bodies left in a gruesome display. The new owner offers Stevie an invitation: Come to the camp and help him work on a true crime podcast about the case.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Stevie agrees, as long as she can bring along her friends from Ellingham Academy. Nothing sounds better than a summer spent together, investigating old murders.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">But something evil still lurks in Barlow Corners. When Stevie opens the lid on this long-dormant case, she gets much more than she bargained for. The Box in the Woods will make room for more victims. This time, Stevie may not make it out alive.</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvzkqASp_uoRNOdef3F1fvWCv9YA-aK4hoO5CeCOcKRS-BqULSe1L92X50ARW1GPvGltG03Tr-MrnLkNl4Z_kgLC0sloNZ9SZLFOHAQ1yiciaOiLNGsZkAtd6SBaeGAxXiQ7vHhecxK8F4R62s5R_4I51dcvPXOMDomPaHnHivcazNIenVIuL2wvE/s2417/913MOmFxMLL.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2417" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmvzkqASp_uoRNOdef3F1fvWCv9YA-aK4hoO5CeCOcKRS-BqULSe1L92X50ARW1GPvGltG03Tr-MrnLkNl4Z_kgLC0sloNZ9SZLFOHAQ1yiciaOiLNGsZkAtd6SBaeGAxXiQ7vHhecxK8F4R62s5R_4I51dcvPXOMDomPaHnHivcazNIenVIuL2wvE/s16000/913MOmFxMLL.jpg" /></span></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/176421-truly-devious" target="_blank">Book #5</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60495147-nine-liars" target="_blank">Nine Liars</a> | <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10317.Maureen_Johnson" target="_blank">Maureen Johnson</a> | <a href="https://www.harpercollins.ca/" target="_blank">Harper Collins</a> | <b>Pub</b>: December 27, 2022 | <b>Pages</b>: 449</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbrI_HHXkyMcqo3eQ-lx_mw-ZULZ5MgBOdhkP0Sr_l4FBMSFUzqEMzunW3sokAWOyQnJhAHSj8FFzfWON8JouGhF-I2P5K2UJsr6zlzdFv9hXYDfOcNRdtH1sy5dP29uUtzEAPM9_evBPuDe85D1SyT5ee2C7caB0J7WE6mXGbjl2oBPeZ7W9ypfM/s258/5%20stars_New.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="125" data-original-width="258" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidbrI_HHXkyMcqo3eQ-lx_mw-ZULZ5MgBOdhkP0Sr_l4FBMSFUzqEMzunW3sokAWOyQnJhAHSj8FFzfWON8JouGhF-I2P5K2UJsr6zlzdFv9hXYDfOcNRdtH1sy5dP29uUtzEAPM9_evBPuDe85D1SyT5ee2C7caB0J7WE6mXGbjl2oBPeZ7W9ypfM/s1600/5%20stars_New.PNG" width="258" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">I love this series so much, and Nine Liars reminded me exactly why!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">This time around, Stevie and the gang trade Vermont for London on a study abroad trip, and Maureen Johnson makes full use of that setting. It feels fresh and fun while still keeping everything that makes this 

9233series great. Within their first night there, Stevie gets handed a cold case she absolutely cannot ignore, back in 1995, nine close Cambridge friends spent a wild night at a country estate playing hide-and-seek. By morning, two of them were found murdered in the woodshed. No one was ever charged. And one of the surviving seven saw something she still can't explain.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The past timeline in this one is seriously compelling. Nine dramatic, messy, larger-than-life friends tangled up in one manor house on a stormy night, it's got that dark academia meets classic Agatha Christie energy that just works. Figuring out who among those nine could have done it, and why, keeps you guessing the whole way through. The mystery is twisty, logical, and unpredictable all at once, and when the pieces finally click together, it feels so satisfying.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The characters continue to be the heart of this series. Stevie is still brilliantly obsessive and wonderfully awkward. Nate remains the unsung MVP, his dry humor lands every single time. Janelle and Vi are a delight. Watching this whole friend group navigate college applications and life decisions on top of solving a murder is honestly just a joy to read. You feel like you know these people by now, and spending more time with them never gets old.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The pacing builds steadily and picks up hard in the final third, I was flying through the last hundred pages. And then there's that ending. That cliffhanger. I actually had to put the book down for a second just to process it. Johnson does not ease you out gently, she shoves you off a ledge and walks away. It's equal parts infuriating and brilliant, and it absolutely made me want the next book immediately.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Give me book six, seven, eight, and however many more Maureen Johnson wants to write. I will read every single one!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Speaking of next book, <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239413615-the-velvet-knife" target="_blank">The Velvet Knife</a> (Book #6) is coming out on October 13, 2026! Mark your calendars!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60495147-nine-liars" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Synopsis</span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">

9233Senior year at Ellingham Academy for Stevie Bell isn’t going well. Her boyfriend, David, is studying in London. Her friends are obsessed with college applications. With the cold case of the century solved, Stevie is adrift. There is nothing to distract her from the questions pinging around her brain—questions about college, love, and life in general.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Relief comes when David invites Stevie and her friends to join him for study abroad, and his new friend Izzy introduces her to a double-murder cold case. In 1995, nine friends from Cambridge University went to a country house and played a drunken game of hide-and-seek. Two were found in the woodshed the next day, murdered with an ax.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">The case was assumed to be a burglary gone wrong, but one of the remaining seven saw something she can’t explain. This was no break-in. Someone’s lying about what happened in the woodshed.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">Seven suspects. Two murders. One killer still playing a deadly game.</span></div>
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9242  &lt;div style=&quot;background: linear-gradient(to right, transparent, rgb(187, 187, 187) 40%, rgb(187, 187, 187) 60%, transparent); flex: 1 1 0%; height: 1px;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;If you&#39;re looking for a mystery series that&#39;s fun and actually keeps you guessing, the Truly Devious series is such a good pick! It&#39;s easy to read, hard to put down, and Stevie is the kind of main character you just root for the whole way through.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;I had a blast reading these books and I hope my reviews help you decide if they&#39;re right for you, or give you a place to talk about them if you&#39;ve already read them. I&#39;ll always mark spoilers clearly, so don&#39;t worry about accidentally ruining anything for yourself.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both;&quot;&gt;Thanks for being here, and happy reading!&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;color: #0000ee; text-decoration-line: underline;&quot;&gt;&lt;div style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: &amp;quot;Century Gothic&amp;quot;;&quot;&gt;@anintrovertreads&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;br /&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/1163145593880762468/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/truly-devious-series-by-maureen-johnson.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1163145593880762468'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/1163145593880762468'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/truly-devious-series-by-maureen-johnson.html' title=' Truly Devious Series by Maureen Johnson | Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

9242<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjloNTD5M_JM9GGwMawhFpoHwl80Scj6w78Y6s_S_WyHRrPv4B6ZfmH1h14VnvaaH1HS1zeDp7GGLU8bVTOCBogXcJycUl0j3am91iWJXlb2w33f6_EC0vjZrBo7UQ4k9Qpmxx-j3SGoCc8z_gZPx3YN-HMAxwW9Bv9x3X0sAIMD35hiUdQ9kpCVFhB2BE/s72-c/Copy%20of%20Copy%20of%20Untitled%20Design.png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-2139977853432831897</id><published>2026-03-17T13:26:00.011-06:00</published><updated>2026-03-17T16:09:41.972-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>Mommy Reads&#39; February 2026 Reading Wrap-Up</title><content type='html'>&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfgOTkk1TmbUE8XLVQY6OTMrRYCO7hERFRpwYs_IqI5kAk672fxZ5HHF9Uhp8T6Y1KdzC034q4MRIsCjlUiWHk8TssgmR3WP6sERlGYYGM2Vrhu62ctNCKsm2ieD4BXl3dz6qwxTPAjysACMV5yJqqiJ7R679Fyl6jJnVRqkbGsQRlgrVuc_Y5OGGf6g/s1350/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(1).png&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfgOTkk1TmbUE8XLVQY6OTMrRYCO7hERFRpwYs_IqI5kAk672fxZ5HHF9Uhp8T6Y1KdzC034q4MRIsCjlUiWHk8TssgmR3WP6sERlGYYGM2Vrhu62ctNCKsm2ieD4BXl3dz6qwxTPAjysACMV5yJqqiJ7R679Fyl6jJnVRqkbGsQRlgrVuc_Y5OGGf6g/s1600/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(1).png&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;424&quot; data-start=&quot;29&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;After such a strong start to the year in January, I was excited to see what February’s reading would bring. While it was a slightly quieter reading month for me, I still managed to finish &lt;span data-end=&quot;231&quot; data-start=&quot;217&quot;&gt;four books&lt;/span&gt;, and the best part is that &lt;span data-end=&quot;305&quot; data-start=&quot;259&quot;&gt;every single one of them was a&lt;b&gt; ⭐⭐⭐⭐ &lt;/b&gt;read&lt;/span&gt;. There’s something really satisfying about a month where every book you pick up ends up being an enjoyable experience.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;643&quot; data-start=&quot;426&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;February’s reading included a mix of romance and suspense, which made for a nice variety of stories and characters. From emotional journeys to twisty thrillers, February’s books definitely kept me turning the pages.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;643&quot; data-start=&quot;426&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;
9243
9244&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;691&quot; data-start=&quot;645&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Here’s a look at everything I read in February:&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;790&quot; data-start=&quot;698&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;790&quot; data-start=&quot;698&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;1. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Willowbrook Wishes&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Kristen Reads&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;691&quot; data-start=&quot;645&quot;&gt;
9245&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1188&quot; data-start=&quot;792&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This heartwarming romance takes readers to the charming town of Willowbrook, where new beginnings and unexpected connections often change lives. As the characters navigate love, personal growth, and second chances, they discover that sometimes the wishes we make have a way of coming true when we least expect them. It’s a cozy and uplifting story perfect for readers who love small-town romance. You can find my review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/02/willowbrook-wishes-by-kristen-reads-arc.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1188&quot; data-start=&quot;792&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1306&quot; data-start=&quot;1195&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;1306&quot; data-start=&quot;1195&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;2. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;The Housemaid&#39;s Secret&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; (The Housemaid #2) by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Freida McFadden&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1188&quot; data-start=&quot;792&quot;&gt;
9246&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1704&quot; data-start=&quot;1308&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;In this sequel to the gripping thriller &lt;strong data-end=&quot;1389&quot; data-start=&quot;1348&quot;&gt;The Housemaid&lt;/strong&gt;, the tension continues to build as more secrets begin to surface. When the protagonist finds herself once again working in a seemingly perfect home, it quickly becomes clear that nothing is as it appears. Filled with shocking twists and psychological suspense, this story keeps readers guessing until the very end.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1704&quot; data-start=&quot;1308&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1825&quot; data-start=&quot;1711&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;1825&quot; data-start=&quot;1711&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;3. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Sealed With A Kiss&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; (Changing Seasons #3) by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Emma Sewell&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1704&quot; data-start=&quot;1308&quot;&gt;
9247&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;2153&quot; data-start=&quot;1827&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This romantic story follows two characters who never expected their paths to cross in such a meaningful way. As their relationship slowly develops, they must face personal fears and emotional barriers that threaten to keep them apart. It’s a sweet and emotional romance about vulnerability, trust, and taking a chance on love. You can find my review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/02/sealed-with-kiss-by-emma-sewell-arc.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;2153&quot; data-start=&quot;1827&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;2280&quot; data-start=&quot;2160&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;2280&quot; data-start=&quot;2160&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;4. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Racing for Redemption&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; (Backmaker Love Trilogy #1) by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Vanessa F. Silva&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;2153&quot; data-start=&quot;1827&quot;&gt;
9248&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;2603&quot; data-start=&quot;2282&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Set in the high-intensity world of racing, this story blends romance with personal redemption. The characters must confront past mistakes, fierce competition, and complicated emotions while fighting for both their dreams and their hearts. With plenty of tension and heartfelt moments, it’s an engaging start to a trilogy. You can find my review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/vanessa-f-silvas-racing-for-redemption.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;2603&quot; data-start=&quot;2282&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;691&quot; data-start=&quot;645&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Overall, February may have been a shorter reading month, but it was still filled with great stories. Four solid 4-star reads 

9248is definitely something I can’t complain about, and it kept my reading momentum going strong for the year. I’m looking forward to seeing what books March will bring and adding even more titles to my growing list of favorites.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;691&quot; data-start=&quot;645&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;691&quot; data-start=&quot;645&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;691&quot; data-start=&quot;645&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/2139977853432831897/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/mommy-reads-february-2026-reading-wrap.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/2139977853432831897'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/2139977853432831897'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/mommy-reads-february-2026-reading-wrap.html' title='Mommy Reads&#39; February 2026 Reading Wrap-Up'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMfgOTkk1TmbUE8XLVQY6OTMrRYCO7hERFRpwYs_IqI5kAk672fxZ5HHF9Uhp8T6Y1KdzC034q4MRIsCjlUiWHk8TssgmR3WP6sERlGYYGM2Vrhu62ctNCKsm2ieD4BXl3dz6qwxTPAjysACMV5yJqqiJ7R679Fyl6jJnVRqkbGsQRlgrVuc_Y5OGGf6g/s72-c/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up%20(1).png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-445648410022752120</id><published>2026-03-17T13:09:00.008-06:00</published><updated>2026-03-17T16:08:04.485-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="WrapUps"/><title type='text'>Mommy Reads&#39; January 2026 Reading Wrap-Up</title><content type='html'>&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp8EAa7rw3NvmuNHl4cwb67F-4HCucDxFsAnP-gMFFRnMCODh3tg56TQflPa4rfufdqIH-m8L_W-UhTgKFpPMAH86-nKc-sfLjIs9X_bE5ix3ICnbZbRIG4OnCNaSQR8Q7Qt-zWoXYWRsif29J2ihDSwOMdA_Xv7yhyphenhyphenTAUldUzJAwk1wDkRVf_13CoRM/s1350/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up.png&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1350&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp8EAa7rw3NvmuNHl4cwb67F-4HCucDxFsAnP-gMFFRnMCODh3tg56TQflPa4rfufdqIH-m8L_W-UhTgKFpPMAH86-nKc-sfLjIs9X_bE5ix3ICnbZbRIG4OnCNaSQR8Q7Qt-zWoXYWRsif29J2ihDSwOMdA_Xv7yhyphenhyphenTAUldUzJAwk1wDkRVf_13CoRM/s1600/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up.png&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;div style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;As many of you know, &lt;em data-end=&quot;98&quot; data-start=&quot;78&quot;&gt;Book Obsessed Introverts&lt;/em&gt; has mostly been a space where &lt;i&gt;An Introvert Reads&lt;/i&gt; and I share our thoughts through book reviews. But recently, we started talking about ways to bring a little more variety to the blog and share more of our reading life beyond individual reviews. One idea we were really excited about was introducing &lt;strong data-end=&quot;404&quot; data-start=&quot;376&quot;&gt;&lt;i&gt;Monthly Reading Wrap-Ups&lt;/i&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;
9249&lt;p data-end=&quot;685&quot; data-start=&quot;407&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;These posts will give a quick look at everything we read during the month. The highs, the surprises, and the books that stuck with us long after we turned the final page. It feels like the perfect way to reflect on our reading journey and share more recommendations with you all.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1097&quot; data-start=&quot;687&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;To kick things off, &lt;span data-end=&quot;760&quot; data-start=&quot;707&quot;&gt;January was a fantastic start to the reading year&lt;/span&gt;. I managed to finish &lt;span data-end=&quot;796&quot; data-start=&quot;782&quot;&gt;five books&lt;/span&gt;, which honestly feels like the best kind of momentum heading into the rest of the year. Even better? Every single one of them ended up being &lt;span data-end=&quot;972&quot; data-start=&quot;938&quot;&gt;either a 4-star or 5-star read&lt;/span&gt;. There’s nothing quite like starting the year with a streak of great books. It definitely sets the tone for the months ahead.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;
9250&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1403&quot; data-start=&quot;1099&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;From captivating stories to characters that linger in your mind long after the final chapter, January’s reading list reminded me why I love getting lost in books so much. It’s always exciting when a new year of reading begins, and if this first month was any indication, it’s shaping up to be a great one.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1638&quot; data-start=&quot;1405&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;In this wrap-up, I’ll be sharing the &lt;span data-end=&quot;1478&quot; data-start=&quot;1442&quot;&gt;five books I finished in January&lt;/span&gt;, along with my star ratings and a few quick thoughts about each one. Some were emotional, some were immersive, and all of them were memorable in their own way.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;
9251&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1709&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1640&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Let’s dive into the books that started my reading year off right.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;145&quot; data-start=&quot;0&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;b&gt;1.&amp;nbsp;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;99&quot; data-start=&quot;17&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Rebel Witch&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;b&gt;(The Crimson Moth #2)&lt;/b&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;99&quot; data-start=&quot;17&quot;&gt;by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Kristen Ciccarelli&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&amp;nbsp;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;110&quot; data-start=&quot;0&quot;&gt;—&lt;/strong&gt;⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;145&quot; data-start=&quot;0&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This story follows a powerful witch navigating a world filled with dangerous magic, political tension, and shifting alliances. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, she must decide who she can truly trust while fighting for her freedom and the future of magic itself. With high stakes, emotional depth, and plenty of tension, it’s a captivating fantasy that will especially appeal to readers who love strong heroines and richly built magical worlds.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;112&quot; data-start=&quot;0&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;110&quot; data-start=&quot;0&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;2. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Come What May&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; (Ember Falls #4) by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Corinne Michaels&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;507&quot; data-start=&quot;114&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This emotional small-town romance follows characters who must confront their pasts while learning how to trust and love again. As old wounds resurface and secrets come to light, they discover that healing sometimes requires taking the biggest risks with your heart. It’s a heartfelt story filled with family bonds, second chances, and the kind of romance that makes Ember Falls feel like home. You can find my review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/01/come-what-may-by-corinne-michaels-arc.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;603&quot; data-start=&quot;509&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;601&quot; data-start=&quot;509&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;3. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Ally Carter&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1050&quot; data-start=&quot;605&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;When a group of mystery authors gathers at a snowy estate for the holidays, what begins as a festive retreat quickly turns into a real-life whodunit. Forced to work together to uncover the truth, two rival writers must set aside their differences and follow the clues before the mystery spirals further out of control. Packed with clever twists, humor, and a cozy winter atmosphere, it’s a fun and charming mystery for fans of classic whodunits.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1146&quot; data-start=&quot;1052&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;strong data-end=&quot;1144&quot; data-start=&quot;1052&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;4. &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;The Housemaid&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; by &lt;span class=&quot;hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline&quot;&gt;&lt;span class=&quot;whitespace-normal&quot;&gt;Freida McFadden&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt; — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1533&quot; data-start=&quot;1148&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This gripping psychological thriller follows a woman who takes a job as a housemaid for a 

9251wealthy family, hoping it will be the fresh start she desperately needs. But the longer she stays in the house, the more she realizes something is deeply wrong with the family she works for. Full of shocking twists and mounting tension, the story keeps readers guessing until the very last page.</span></p><p data-end="1629" data-start="1535" style="text-align: justify;"><strong data-end="1627" data-start="1535"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic;">5. <span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline"><span class="whitespace-normal">Finding Redemption</span></span> by <span class="hover:entity-accent entity-underline inline cursor-pointer align-baseline"><span class="whitespace-normal">Valentina Burns</span></span> — ⭐⭐⭐⭐</span></strong></p><p data-end="145" data-start="0">
9252
9253
9254
9255
9256
9257
9258&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1993&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1631&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;This emotional romance explores the journey of two people trying to rebuild their lives after painful past experiences. As they slowly grow closer, they must confront their fears, guilt, and the mistakes that shaped them in order to find forgiveness—both for themselves and each other. It’s a heartfelt story about healing, hope, and the power of second chances. You can find my review &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/01/finding-redemption-by-valentina-burns.html#more&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;here&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1709&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1640&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;I’m excited to see what stories February will bring, and I hope you found a book here that might make its way onto your own reading list.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1709&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1640&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;Happy Reading!&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p data-end=&quot;1709&quot; data-is-last-node=&quot;&quot; data-is-only-node=&quot;&quot; data-start=&quot;1640&quot; style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;http://www.instagram.com/mommy_reads_&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Mommy Reads&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/445648410022752120/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/mommy-reads-january-2026-reading-wrap-up.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/445648410022752120'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/445648410022752120'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/mommy-reads-january-2026-reading-wrap-up.html' title='Mommy Reads&#39; January 2026 Reading Wrap-Up'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author>

9258<media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWp8EAa7rw3NvmuNHl4cwb67F-4HCucDxFsAnP-gMFFRnMCODh3tg56TQflPa4rfufdqIH-m8L_W-UhTgKFpPMAH86-nKc-sfLjIs9X_bE5ix3ICnbZbRIG4OnCNaSQR8Q7Qt-zWoXYWRsif29J2ihDSwOMdA_Xv7yhyphenhyphenTAUldUzJAwk1wDkRVf_13CoRM/s72-c/January%20Reading%20Wrap-Up.png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2056704585943254941.post-3528639868058089100</id><published>2026-03-17T12:34:00.006-06:00</published><updated>2026-03-17T16:03:03.456-06:00</updated><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="2026Favorites"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="ARC"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Featured"/><category scheme="http://www.blogger.com/atom/ns#" term="Mystery&amp;Thriller"/><title type='text'>Stolen Family by Lisa Regan | Review</title><content type='html'>&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: left;&quot;&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagYIS7jVl-qnI2FzEUxM4hClBGkahCAxQ1GOGHP4Yhg_dcfGrVw58u66H-iamtge5c9OvBUFxrIrnjEQ_dlTvYgsjb-TWhUULjmEVETWRvXLqSiOyrwOjMgMhOHpu0rE5CrsDgELWFlfDByury6QxUuWQnUBUc9wxJsKxfzz8B0Z4hdYd9TQ3t8SoT0E/s1080/Lisa%20Regan.jpg&quot; style=&quot;margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;&quot;&gt;&lt;img border=&quot;0&quot; data-original-height=&quot;1080&quot; data-original-width=&quot;1080&quot; src=&quot;https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagYIS7jVl-qnI2FzEUxM4hClBGkahCAxQ1GOGHP4Yhg_dcfGrVw58u66H-iamtge5c9OvBUFxrIrnjEQ_dlTvYgsjb-TWhUULjmEVETWRvXLqSiOyrwOjMgMhOHpu0rE5CrsDgELWFlfDByury6QxUuWQnUBUc9wxJsKxfzz8B0Z4hdYd9TQ3t8SoT0E/s1600/Lisa%20Regan.jpg&quot; /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: center;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic;&quot;&gt;&lt;span face=&quot;&amp;quot;Century Gothic&amp;quot;, sans-serif&quot; style=&quot;font-size: 13.3333px; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/series/220856-detective-josie-quinn&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Book 24&lt;/a&gt; | &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/247528884-stolen-family&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Stolen Family&lt;/a&gt; | &lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6443334.Lisa_Regan&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Lisa Regan&lt;/a&gt; |&lt;a href=&quot;https://bookouture.com/&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Bookouture&lt;/a&gt;&amp;nbsp;|&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;b style=&quot;font-size: 13.3333px; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;Pub&lt;/b&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-size: 13.3333px; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;: April 9, 2026 |&amp;nbsp;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;b style=&quot;font-size: 13.3333px; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;Pages&lt;/b&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-size: 13.3333px; text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;: 424&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p style=&quot;text-align: justify;&quot;&gt;&lt;span style=&quot;font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 10pt;&quot;&gt;&lt;a href=&quot;https://www.goodreads.com/series/220856-detective-josie-quinn&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Book #24&lt;/a&gt;&amp;nbsp;and it did not disappoint! I’ve

9259loved the Detective Josie Quinn series for a while now, but this one might be
9260one of my favorites. From the first chapter, the story pulled me in, and I
9261didn’t want to stop reading. The pacing is fast and the chapters keep you saying:
9262just one more. The series is known for being addictive and full of twists, and
9263this book definitely delivers that.</span></p>
9264
9265<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What really makes these books work is
9266the characters. Josie is such a strong main character, and I always enjoy
9267seeing how much she cares about the victims and how determined she is to get
9268justice. The team around her also adds a lot to the story and makes the
9269investigation feel real and intense. One of my favorite parts of this book was
9270getting a deeper look into Turner’s life. It was really interesting to see
9271another side of him, and it made me question whether he’s actually the bad guy
9272people assume he is. That added a lot of depth to the story and to his
9273character. Which was honestly much needed at this point!</span></p>
9274
9275<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The mystery itself kept me guessing the
9276whole time. There are plenty of twists and turns, and every time I thought I
9277had it figured out, something new would come up. The tension keeps building all
9278the way to the end, and the final reveal was both shocking and emotional.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
9279
9280<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 10pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Overall, this was a fantastic addition
9281to the series. It’s tense, emotional, and packed with twists. If you’re already
9282a Josie Quinn fan, you’ll love this one. And if you’re new to the series, please
9283start from Book 1, you won’t regret it!</span></p>
9284
9285<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 10pt;">Thank you to Bookouture for providing
9286me with an electronic ARC of this book via NetGalley. As usual, my reviews are
9287my honest and unbiased opinions.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 10pt;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/247528884-stolen-family" target="_blank">Synopsis</a></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Century Gothic, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 13.3333px;">A breath of warm air lifts the canvas opening of the tent to reveal a carpet of crimson petals within. Two bodies lie side by side. Mother and daughter are achingly beautiful in the glow of the twinkling fairy lights above, but their cold blue lips have whispered their last “I love you…”</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Century Gothic, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 13.3333px;">As a heatwave chokes the small town of Denton, Maxine and Haven Barnes are discovered dead at a local festival, blood-red camellias pressed into their once-clammy skin. Detective Josie Quinn races through the crowds to attend the scene, horrified that something so disturbing could happen at a family event. Maxine was known to the police for issues with her abusive husband, but the trail ends there.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Century Gothic, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 13.3333px;">Hours later, a call rocks Josie to her another mother and teenage daughter are missing, with the same rare flowers left on their doorstep. And just when the stakes couldn’t get any higher, the missing women are linked to the most challenging member of Josie’s team, Detective Kyle Turner. He had a secret family he’s kept hidden from them all, and now their lives are in danger…</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Century Gothic, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 13.3333px;">

9287Clock ticking, it will take everything Josie has to break down the walls Turner put up to protect himself and the people he loves. But when tracing the flowers back to their origins has the killer within her grasp, a truth much closer to home reveals itself. And with it, more danger than anyone could have imagined. Can Josie bring this monster to justice before any more precious lives are taken?</span></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Century Gothic, sans-serif"><span style="font-family: Century Gothic; font-size: 13.3333px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/anintrovertreads/" target="_blank">@anintrovertreads</a></span></span></p><p></p>
9288
9289<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Stolen-Family-absolutely-nail-biting-heart-racing-ebook/dp/B0GL8HW6PC/ref=zg_bsnr_g_14669223011_d_sccl_3/000-0000000-0000000?psc=1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh7Gzbjzxgnhy46UW5PMiS7FYJjDbrGBabxRmGzYvd1tN2bMmzsgfoJbASwsUjHgWN8NA4vJrnsZ1LGmAnNf-jIIS5bJg060tuE4p6V2kxtpA3Jfmf1DGJjY1MxiOloBdr4ehK5WwlkWOB4pFdtgWWVVTXtR6tm8MZOuSeKR1g-WjDL-oW3dxTm4GXIZY/w200-h200/Untitled%20design%20(2).png" width="200" /></a></div>
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9575&lt;/script&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/feeds/3528639868058089100/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/stolen-family-by-lisa-regan-review.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/3528639868058089100'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='https://www.blogger.com/feeds/2056704585943254941/posts/default/3528639868058089100'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='https://www.bookobsessedintroverts.com/2026/03/stolen-family-by-lisa-regan-review.html' title='Stolen Family by Lisa Regan | Review'/><author><name>Book Obsessed Introverts</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/00112423872980836596</uri><email>[email protected]</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjagYIS7jVl-qnI2FzEUxM4hClBGkahCAxQ1GOGHP4Yhg_dcfGrVw58u66H-iamtge5c9OvBUFxrIrnjEQ_dlTvYgsjb-TWhUULjmEVETWRvXLqSiOyrwOjMgMhOHpu0rE5CrsDgELWFlfDByury6QxUuWQnUBUc9wxJsKxfzz8B0Z4hdYd9TQ3t8SoT0E/s72-c/Lisa%20Regan.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry></feed>