# Simple Book Reviews | SBR > Honest Reviews. Addictive Reads. Your Next Favourite Book Starts Here. --- ## Pages - [Book Series](https://simplebookreviews.com/book-series/): Fresh Ink Shelf - [Genres](https://simplebookreviews.com/genres/): Fresh Ink Shelf - [DISCLAIMER](https://simplebookreviews.com/disclaimer/): DISCLAIMER Last updated September 16, 2025 WEBSITE DISCLAIMER The information provided by SimpleBookReviews. com (‘we’, ‘us’, or ‘our’) on https://simplebookreviews.... - [📚 Join Our Indie Author Review Program!](https://simplebookreviews.com/indie-author-review/): Are you an indie author looking to elevate your book’s visibility? We have an exciting opportunity just for you! 🌟... - [Request a Review](https://simplebookreviews.com/request-a-review/): Welcome to our Request a Review page! 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Here’s why thrillers with quick chapters are so addictive. - [Genre-Blending: When Love Meets Suspense (and Fantasy, Etc.)](https://simplebookreviews.com/genre-blending-when-love-meets-suspense-fantasy/): When genres collide, magic happens. Here’s why genre-blending books keep readers hooked. - [One-Word Reactions: What Our Single-Word Summaries Reveal](https://simplebookreviews.com/one-word-reactions-what-our-single-word-summaries-reveal/): Can one word say it all? Discover what our single-word reviews say about the reading experience. - [Setting as Character: When Location Becomes the Story](https://simplebookreviews.com/setting-as-character-when-location-becomes-the-story/): Some places aren’t just backdrops — they drive the story. Explore books where setting takes the lead. - [Under the Surface: Why Scene-Stealing Side Characters Matter](https://simplebookreviews.com/under-the-surface-why-scene-stealing-side-characters-matter/): Some characters barely get screen time—but leave a lasting mark. Here’s why side characters often steal the show. - [✨New Releases & Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winners 2025](https://simplebookreviews.com/new-releases-readers-favorite-2025/): Discover the latest new releases and 2025 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal winners. From thrillers to poetry, these standout books deserve... - [Romance That Hurts (in the Best Way): Why We Love Sad Love Stories](https://simplebookreviews.com/romance-that-hurts-in-the-best-way-why-we-love-sad-love-stories/): Not every love story ends in roses—and that’s exactly why we love them. These bittersweet romances will break your heart... - [The Power of the Underdog Heroine: From Surviving to Thriving](https://simplebookreviews.com/the-power-of-the-underdog-heroine-from-surviving-to-thriving/): Celebrate heroines who rise from overlooked to unforgettable. These powerful stories show strength where you least expect it. - [What to Read When You're in a Slump: 5 Books That Hook You Fast](https://simplebookreviews.com/what-to-read-when-youre-in-a-slump-5-books-that-hook-you-fast/): Stuck in a reading rut? These 5 addictive books will pull you out—fast-paced, emotional, and impossible to put down. - [Locked Rooms, Lost Girls: The Return of Classic Mystery Setups](https://simplebookreviews.com/locked-rooms-lost-girls-the-return-of-classic-mystery-setups/): Locked doors, unreliable narrators, buried secrets—discover the modern return of classic mystery tropes with a psychological edge. - [Enemies to Lovers: Why We Keep Falling for This Romance Trope](https://simplebookreviews.com/enemies-to-lovers-why-we-keep-falling-for-this-romance-trope/): From fiery tension to emotional payoff, see why enemies-to-lovers is the romance trope we can’t quit. Featuring Emily Henry and... - [The Rise of Soft Fantasy: Why Readers Love Books Like The House in the Cerulean Sea](https://simplebookreviews.com/the-rise-of-soft-fantasy-why-readers-love-books-like-the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea/): Explore the soothing magic of soft fantasy. Learn why readers are falling for quiet, heartwarming tales like The House in... - [Beyond the Twist: What Makes a Psychological Thriller Truly Memorable](https://simplebookreviews.com/beyond-the-twist-what-makes-a-psychological-thriller-truly-memorable/): Discover what makes a psychological thriller unforgettable. It’s more than a twist—it’s the tension, the stakes, and the characters that... - [Stories That Heal: The Power of Fiction to Make Us Feel Seen](https://simplebookreviews.com/stories-that-heal-the-power-of-fiction-to-make-us-feel-seen/): Books can entertain, but they can also hold us through heartbreak, help us laugh again, or remind us of our... - [Why We’re Drawn to Darkness: The Enduring Appeal of Psychological Thrillers](https://simplebookreviews.com/why-were-drawn-to-darkness-the-enduring-appeal-of-psychological-thrillers/): There’s a reason why psychological thrillers consistently top our most-viewed reviews list. Whether it’s the unsettling charm of The Housemaid... - [📚 10 Most-Viewed Reviews on Simple Book Reviews (and Why You Should Read Them)](https://simplebookreviews.com/%f0%9f%93%9a-10-most-viewed-reviews-on-simple-book-reviews-and-why-you-should-read-them/): Our readers have spoken. These are the 10 most-viewed books on the site, spanning thrillers, romances, dystopias, and more. If... - [Hello book lovers!](https://simplebookreviews.com/hello-book-lovers/): Welcome to Simple Book Reviews community. Here you can post or find simple and honest reviews not fancy reviews. Please... --- ## Reviews - [Polished Floors, Dirty Secrets - Review for The Housemaid’s Secret](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-housemaids-secret-review-polished-floors-dirty-secrets/): I tore through The Housemaid’s Secret in two sittings and still found time to side-eye every locked door in my... - [Shadows That Whisper – Review for Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/shadows-that-whisper-review-for-eastern-shadows-by-peter-nordgren/): There’s something quietly haunting about this one. Eastern Shadows doesn’t yell for attention, it lures you in with a whisper.... - [A Thriller with Depth – Review for Eastern Shadows](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-thriller-with-depth-review-for-eastern-shadows/): Eastern Shadows surprised me. It’s not the kind of thriller that races ahead with twists every other page, but it... - [In the Mirror – Review of Good Girl by Aria Aber](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/in-the-mirror-review-of-good-girl-by-aria-aber/): Aria Aber’s debut novel Good Girl follows 19-year-old Berlin-born Nila Haddadi, the daughter of Afghan immigrants, who navigates the collision... - [Just Love Her by Raz Mihal](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/just-love-her-by-raz-mihal/): This one’s a little different, and that’s exactly why it stuck with me. Just Love Her isn’t your typical linear... - [The Neighbor: A Detective D. D. Warren Novel](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-neighbor-a-detective-d-d-warren-novel/): I just finished The Neighbor: A Detective D. D. Warren Novel by Lisa Gardner, and wow, what a ride! This... - [Ralph's Party](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/ralphs-party/): Ralph’s Party by Lisa Jewell is an engaging and delightful debut that takes place in a quirky London apartment building.... - [Bitten](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/bitten/): Bitten by Kelley Armstrong is an exciting and fast-paced novel that introduces readers to Elena Michaels, the world’s only female... - [Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/stop-me-if-youve-heard-this-one/): Kristen Arnett’s Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One is a darkly funny and surprisingly emotional journey of self-reinvention. The... - [Invisible Girl](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/invisible-girl/): I just finished Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell, and I couldn’t put it down. This psychological thriller grabs you right... - [The Substitute](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-substitute/): Nicole Lundrigan’s The Substitute is a slow-burning psychological thriller that creeps under your skin and stays there. It’s dark, unsettling,... - [Hideaway](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/hideaway/): Hideaway follows Rowan and Maisy, two siblings trapped under the control of their manipulative mother, Gloria. When Rowan escapes, he... - [The Unhoneymooners](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-unhoneymooners/): The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren is a delightful rom-com that combines humor, heart, and a gorgeous setting. Olive and Ethan,... - [Miss Mabel's School for Girls](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/miss-mabels-school-for-girls/): Miss Mabel’s School for Girls is a delightful introduction to The Network series by Katie Cross. The story follows the... - [Sunrise On The Reaping](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/sunrise-on-the-reaping/): Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins is an engaging prequel to The Hunger Games, offering a fascinating look at... - [I’ll Be Gone in the Dark](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/ill-be-gone-in-the-dark/): Michelle McNamara’s I’ll Be Gone in the Dark is an intense and haunting look at the Golden State Killer case.... - [The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-secret-history-of-the-rape-kit-a-true-crime-story/): The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story by Pagan Kennedy is an eye-opening exploration of the... - [The Idiot](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-idiot/): The Idiot by Elif Batuman is a wonderfully offbeat and darkly comic coming-of-age novel. It follows Selin, a Turkish-American student... - [The Handmaid's Tale](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-handmaids-tale/): I liked “The Handmaid’s Tale” because it really made me think about the dangers of a society where power and... - [Brave New World](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/brave-new-world/): I really liked Brave New World. The way Huxley imagines a future where everything is controlled and everyone is kept... - [The Sellout](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-sellout/): The Sellout by Paul Beatty is a biting, darkly comedic satire that dives deep into issues of race, identity, and... - [The Only One Left](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-only-one-left/): Riley Sager’s The Only One Left is a gripping thriller set in a creepy mansion on a cliff in Maine.... - [In Cold Blood](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/in-cold-blood/): In Cold Blood is a gripping true crime novel that details the brutal murder of a Kansas family in 1959.... - [Then She Was Gone](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/then-she-was-gone/): Lisa Jewell’s Then She Was Gone is a gripping psychological thriller that masterfully blends suspense with deep emotional tension. The... - [The Family Upstairs](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-family-upstairs/): The Family Upstairs is a gripping psychological thriller that weaves together suspense, dark family secrets, and shocking twists. The story... - [The Forgotten Garden](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-forgotten-garden/): I absolutely loved The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton. The story follows Nell, a woman who, after discovering that her... - [Cold as Hell](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/cold-as-hell/): I just finished Cold as Hell, the third book in Kelley Armstrong’s Haven’s Rock series, and I couldn’t put it... - [The Inmate](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-inmate/): The Inmate by Freida McFadden had me hooked from the first page. The story follows Gwen, a woman who is... - [Never Lie](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/never-lie/): Never Lie is a captivating psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story centers... - [American Psycho](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/american-psycho/): American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is a chilling and satirical look at the emptiness of consumer-driven 1980s America. The... - [The Stranger Beside Me](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-stranger-beside-me/): I really enjoyed The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule. The way she combines her personal experience with Ted Bundy... - [Disturbing the Dead](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/disturbing-the-dead/): I really liked Disturbing the Dead by Kelley Armstrong because it kept me hooked from start to finish. The story... - [The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-hitchhikers-guide-to-the-galaxy/): I really enjoyed The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy because it’s just so fun and different. The way Douglas Adams... - [November 9 by Colleen Hoover](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/november-9/): November 9 is an emotional and unconventional romance that explores fate, timing, and second chances. Fallon and Ben meet by... - [Twice in a Blue Moon](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/twice-in-a-blue-moon/): A heartfelt second-chance romance, Twice in a Blue Moon explores love, betrayal, and redemption. Tate and Sam fell in love... - [The True Love Experiment](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-true-love-experiment/): A fun and flirty romance, The True Love Experiment is a lighthearted take on love, reality TV, and self-discovery. Felicity... - [Fourth Wing](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/fourth-wing/): A thrilling mix of fantasy, romance, and action, Fourth Wing is an addicting read for fans of dragons and magical... - [Rock Paper Scissors](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/rock-paper-scissors/): Rock Paper Scissors is a psychological thriller filled with twists, tension, and a foreboding atmosphere. Adam and Amelia’s marriage is... - [The Killer Across the Table](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-killer-across-the-table/): A chilling and insightful dive into the minds of serial killers, The Killer Across the Table by John E. Douglas... - [The Maid](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-maid/): The Maid by Nita Prose is a charming and cozy mystery featuring an unforgettable protagonist. Molly Gray is a socially... - [One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/one-true-loves/): One True Loves is a heart-wrenching and beautifully written novel that explores love, loss, and self-discovery. Emma Blair thought she... - [And Then You Were Gone](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/and-then-you-were-gone/): A gripping psychological thriller, And Then You Were Gone by R. J. Jacobs delivers a fast-paced mystery with a unique... - [That Night](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/that-night/): A thought-provoking and deeply emotional young adult novel, That Night by Amy Giles focuses on the aftermath of a tragedy... - [Final Girls](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/final-girls/): A gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller, Final Girls by Riley Sager is a must-read for fans of horror-inspired mysteries. Quincy... - [A List of Cages](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-list-of-cages/): A deeply moving and emotional young adult novel, A List of Cages by Robin Roe explores themes of trauma, resilience,... - [People We Meet on Vacation](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/people-we-meet-on-vacation/): A heartwarming and witty romance, People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry is the perfect read for fans of... - [The Collective](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-collective/): A dark and thought-provoking psychological thriller, The Collective by Alison Gaylin explores the extremes of grief and revenge. Five years... - [Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/reminders-of-him/): A raw and emotional story of redemption, motherhood, and second chances, Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover tugs at the... - [Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/seven-fallen-feathers-racism-death-and-hard-truths-in-a-northern-city/): A powerful and heartbreaking work of investigative journalism, Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga sheds light on systemic racism and... - [The Last Time I Lied](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-last-time-i-lied/): An atmospheric and twist-filled thriller, The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager is the perfect summer camp mystery. Fifteen... - [Home Before Dark](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/home-before-dark/): A chilling mix of haunted house horror and psychological thriller, Home Before Dark by Riley Sager is an eerie, unputdownable... - [The Song of Achilles](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-song-of-achilles/): A beautifully written and deeply emotional retelling of The Iliad, The Song of Achilles reimagines the love story between Achilles... - [Tonight We Rule the World](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/tonight-we-rule-the-world/): A powerful and emotionally raw novel, Tonight We Rule the World by Zack Smedley tackles trauma, identity, and resilience. Told... - [Meant to Be](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/meant-to-be/): Meant to Be is a sweeping love story inspired by John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, offering a... - [Beach Read](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/beach-read/): A witty, emotional, and surprisingly deep romance, Beach Read by Emily Henry is the perfect mix of humor, heart, and... - [The House in the Cerulean Sea](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea/): The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune is a heartwarming and whimsical tale about acceptance, found family,... - [The Book of Cold Cases](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-book-of-cold-cases/): A haunting and suspenseful mystery, The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James combines true crime, ghostly elements, and... - [Twenty Years Later](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/twenty-years-later/): A gripping investigative thriller, Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea keeps readers on edge with its intriguing premise and shocking... - [The Sun Down Motel](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-sun-down-motel/): Simone St. James delivers another spine-chilling thriller with The Sun Down Motel, a dual-timeline mystery packed with eerie atmosphere and... - [The Night Shift](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-night-shift/): A fast-paced and gripping thriller, The Night Shift by Alex Finlay is packed with suspense, multiple POVs, and shocking twists.... - [Seven Days in June](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/seven-days-in-june/): A beautifully written second-chance romance, Seven Days in June by Tia Williams delivers deep emotion, rich storytelling, and unforgettable characters.... - [Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lessons-in-chemistry/): Brilliantly written and utterly engaging, Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is a novel that blends humor, feminism, and resilience... - [Things We Do in the Dark](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/things-we-do-in-the-dark/): Things We Do in the Dark has all the elements of a great thriller (multiple timelines, a true-crime podcast connection,... - [Looking for Jane](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/looking-for-jane/): A powerful and moving debut, Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall explores motherhood, choice, and resilience through the lens of... - [True Biz](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/true-biz/): A thought-provoking novel that explores Deaf culture, identity, and language, True Biz by Sara Novic is both educational and emotionally... - [The Strangers](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-strangers/): A raw and emotionally powerful novel, The Strangers by Katherena Vermette is a poignant exploration of generational trauma, identity, and... - [Indelible](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/indelible/): Karin Slaughter delivers another intense thriller with Indelible, a gripping installment in the Grant County series. The novel opens with... - [A Faint Cold Fear](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-faint-cold-fear/): Few authors hook readers as quickly as Karin Slaughter, and A Faint Cold Fear is no exception. Set several months... - [Kisscut](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/kisscut/): Kisscut is an unflinching and disturbing thriller that pulls no punches. Sara, Jeffrey, and Lena are still reeling from their... - [Book Lovers](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/book-lovers/): A witty and heartfelt romance, Book Lovers by Emily Henry is a love letter to bookish people and the enemies-to-lovers... - [Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/tomorrow-and-tomorrow-and-tomorrow/): Beautifully written and deeply moving, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin is a novel about love, ambition, and... - [Lovelight Farms](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lovelight-farms/): A delightful and heartwarming small-town romance, Lovelight Farms by B. K. Borison is the perfect holiday read. Stella Bloom has... - [The Huntress](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-huntress/): Kate Quinn delivers another thrilling historical novel with The Huntress, a slow-burning but gripping tale of revenge, survival, and justice.... - [Lease on Love](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lease-on-love/): A charming, modern rom-com with grumpy x sunshine vibes, Lease on Love by Falon Ballard is a fun and flirty... - [The Change](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-change/): A fierce and empowering feminist thriller, The Change by Kirsten Miller is a genre-blending novel full of mystery, supernatural elements,... - [The House Across the Lake](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-house-across-the-lake/): Riley Sager delivers another twisty psychological thriller in The House Across the Lake, a story filled with unreliable narrators, eerie... - [Missing Clarissa](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/missing-clarissa/): A modern true-crime-inspired mystery, Missing Clarissa follows two teenage girls who start a podcast investigating a decades-old disappearance, but not... - [The Housemaid](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-housemaid/): A gripping psychological thriller with dark domestic suspense, The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is a fast-paced, addictive read. Millie is... - [Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/iona-iversons-rules-for-commuting/): A heartwarming and delightful story about human connection, Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting is the perfect feel-good read. Every day,... - [Little Secrets](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/little-secrets/): A dark and emotional domestic thriller, Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier is a suspenseful story filled with secrets, betrayals, and... - [A History of Wild Places](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-history-of-wild-places/): A History of Wild Places is an eerie and atmospheric novel about isolation, cult-like communities, and the dangers of blind... - [Camp Zero](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/camp-zero/): Camp Zero presents a chilling vision of a dystopian future where climate disaster has reshaped the world. While the wealthy... - [The House in the Pines](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-house-in-the-pines/): At 18, Maya was captivated by Frank, a mysterious young man working at her local library. She became so infatuated... - [Mixed Signals](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/mixed-signals/): Some books arrive in your life at just the right time, and for me, Mixed Signals was one of them.... - [The Drift](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-drift/): A gripping, claustrophobic thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world, The Drift by C. J. Tudor is an intense survival story... - [Next of Kin](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/next-of-kin/): A gripping and emotional courtroom drama, Next of Kin follows the harrowing case of an aunt who makes an unthinkable... - [Take My Hand](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/take-my-hand/): A powerful and thought-provoking novel inspired by true historical events, Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins Valdez is a deeply... - [Pigeon-Blood Red](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/pigeon-blood-red/): An action-packed crime thriller, Pigeon-Blood Red follows Rico, an underworld enforcer on a relentless chase after Robert, a desperate gambler... - [The One](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-one/): What if you could find your soulmate through a DNA match? In John Marrs’ gripping psychological thriller The One, a... - [Daisy Darker](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/daisy-darker/): A chilling, gothic-inspired thriller, Daisy Darker delivers a locked-room mystery reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. Nana... - [Lock Every Door](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lock-every-door/): Spooky, suspenseful, and utterly addictive, Lock Every Door is a perfect read for fans of gothic thrillers. Jules is down... - [A Likely Story](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-likely-story/): A literary drama filled with family secrets and ambition, A Likely Story follows Isabelle Manning, the daughter of a bestselling... - [The Other Side of Night](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-other-side-of-night/): A mind-bending, genre-blurring thriller, The Other Side of Night is a book unlike any other. 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For... - [Carrie Soto Is Back](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/carrie-soto-is-back/): Only Taylor Jenkins Reid could make me care about tennis. Carrie Soto Is Back is an electrifying sports drama about... - [I'm the Girl](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/im-the-girl/): A dark and unsettling thriller, I’m the Girl is a bold exploration of power, privilege, and survival in a world... - [Someone Is Always Watching](https://simplebookreviews.com/review/someone-is-always-watching/): Do you want to do something bad? Blythe, Gabrielle, Tucker, and Tanya have always shared a tight bond, until an... --- ## Books - [The Last Nuclear War by HAZEM ABDELMOWLA](https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-last-nuclear-war-by-hazem-abdelmowla/): In a fractured world reborn from viral ruins, energy is scarce and power is currency. 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Mousa, a gifted child adrift in a society ruled by influence and decay, questions everything Buy Now Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros By Rebecca Yarros $34. 13 $13. 49 Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Onyx Storm - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Buy Now Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros By Rebecca Yarros $29. 99 $19. 92 Book 2 of 3: The Empyrean - Iron Flame - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Buy Now The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden By Freida McFadden $17. 99 $12. 58 Book 3 of 3: The Housemaid: A twisting, pulse-pounding thriller from Freida McFadden, the New York Times bestselling author of The Housemaid and The Coworker. Buy Now The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden By Freida McFadden $18. 99 $9. 74 Book 2 of 3: The Housemaid: An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Buy Now Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren By Peter Nordgren $3. 99 "Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges readers deep into Thailand’s underworld, where a vanished woman, a haunted journalist, and a powerful tycoon’s secrets collide in a razor-sharp... --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-10-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/genres/ Fresh Ink Shelf The Last Nuclear War by HAZEM ABDELMOWLA By Hazem Abdelmowla $5. 97 $2. 23 In a fractured world reborn from viral ruins, energy is scarce and power is currency. Mousa, a gifted child adrift in a society ruled by influence and decay, questions everything Buy Now Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros By Rebecca Yarros $34. 13 $13. 49 Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Onyx Storm - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Buy Now Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros By Rebecca Yarros $29. 99 $19. 92 Book 2 of 3: The Empyrean - Iron Flame - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Buy Now The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden By Freida McFadden $17. 99 $12. 58 Book 3 of 3: The Housemaid: A twisting, pulse-pounding thriller from Freida McFadden, the New York Times bestselling author of The Housemaid and The Coworker. Buy Now The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden By Freida McFadden $18. 99 $9. 74 Book 2 of 3: The Housemaid: An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Buy Now Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren By Peter Nordgren $3. 99 "Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges readers deep into Thailand’s underworld, where a vanished woman, a haunted journalist, and a powerful tycoon’s secrets collide in a razor-sharp... --- - Published: 2025-09-16 - Modified: 2025-09-16 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/disclaimer/ DISCLAIMERLast updated September 16, 2025WEBSITE DISCLAIMERThe information provided by SimpleBookReviews. com ('we', 'us', or 'our') on https://simplebookreviews. com/ (the 'Site') is for general informational purposes only. All information on the Site is provided in good faith, however we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the Site. 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Fresh Ink Shelf The Last Nuclear War by HAZEM ABDELMOWLA By Hazem Abdelmowla $5. 97 $2. 23 In a fractured world reborn from viral ruins, energy is scarce and power is currency. Mousa,... --- - Published: 2025-06-13 - Modified: 2025-10-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/reviews/ Simple Book Reviews - The minimalist alternative: One-minute takes, zero spoilers Help busy readers find their next favourite book in under 60 seconds. Polished Floors, Dirty Secrets – Review for The Housemaid’s Secret I tore through The Housemaid’s Secret in two sittings and still found time to side-eye every locked door in my flat. What it’s about: Millie returns, trying to keep her life on track with a new housekeeping job in a glossy Manhattan apartment. The wife never leaves the guest room. The husband is charm on a stick. The rules are odd. Then the pay goes up and so do the questions. That is all you need before the rug starts moving under your feet. What I liked: McFadden keeps chapters snappy and the tension tidy, which suits Millie’s dry, survival-mode A Thriller with Depth – Review for Eastern Shadows Eastern Shadows surprised me. It’s not the kind of thriller that races ahead with twists every other page, but it pulls you in with mood and detail. The setting is so well drawn it almost feels alive, and that gave the whole book a steady, atmospheric weight. The main character felt refreshingly real, uncertain, imperfect, and very human. That made it easier to root for him, especially when things turned tense. The story does move at a slower pace, and there were moments where I wanted it to pick up, but the pull of the mystery kept me turning pages. Shadows That Whisper – Review for Eastern Shadows by... --- - Published: 2025-06-13 - Modified: 2025-10-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/authors/ Search Adam Hamdy1 BookAdam Hamdy, a British author and screenwriter, is known for his action-packed Thrillers, including the Pendulum trilogy. His writing, focusing on espionage and technology, has captivated readers globally. View ProfileAldous Huxley1 Book*Aldous Huxley* was an English author, famous for *Brave New World*. His *dystopian* novel remains a critical commentary on technology, society, and personal freedom, influencing literature for decades. View ProfileAlex Finlay2 Books*Alex Finlay* is the author of bestselling *Mystery* *Thriller*s like *Every Last Fear* and *The Night Shift*. His fast-paced writing and unexpected twists keep readers on the edge of their seats. Finlay has quickly become a notable name in the *Thriller* genre. View ProfileAlice Feeney2 BooksAlice Feeney, a bestselling author from North London, is known for her Psychological Thriller's such as Sometimes I Lie and I Know Who You Are. Her gripping stories, full of unexpected twists, have made her a favorite in the Thriller genre. 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These cookies will last for one year. If you visit our login page, we will set a temporary cookie to determine if your browser accepts cookies. This cookie contains no personal data and is discarded when you close your browser. When you log in, we will also set up several cookies to save your login information and your screen display choices. Login cookies last for two days, and screen options cookies last for a... --- --- ## Posts - Published: 2025-10-09 - Modified: 2025-10-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/short-and-sweet-the-power-of-short-chapter-thrillers/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: bingeable books, fast-paced thrillers, never lie, night shift, short chapter books, thriller structure Short chapters. Long nights. Here’s why thrillers with quick chapters are so addictive. Short chapters can turn a “just one more page” promise into a 3 a. m. reading marathon. Never Lie by Freida McFadden hooks you with its brisk pace, ending every chapter on a note that demands the next. The Night Shift by Alex Finlay uses quick cuts between POVs to keep you gripped. Short chapters create urgency. They’re addictive. They make you think you’re in control, until you’ve read half the book without moving. Do you prefer long, immersive chapters or short, sharp bursts? Never Lie By Freida McFadden The Night Shift By Alex Finlay --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-10-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/genre-blending-when-love-meets-suspense-fantasy/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: book variety, bookmaid secret, fantasy romance, fourth wing, genre mash-up, reminders of him, romantic suspense When genres collide, magic happens. Here’s why genre-blending books keep readers hooked. Some of the most compelling books on our site refuse to stay in their lane. In The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden, domestic suspense flirts with romance, giving the high-stakes tension a personal edge. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros is part fantasy, part romance, part action epic, proof that combining genres can amplify the reading experience. Even Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover mixes deep emotional romance with a hint of mystery, keeping you turning pages for both the heart and the reveal. Genre-blending keeps readers guessing and widens the appeal. It’s not just “one thing”, it’s everything. Which genre mash-up from our reviews surprised you the most? The Housemaid's Secret By Freida McFadden 305,337 ratings Book 2 of 3: The Housemaid: An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Price: $18. 99 $9. 74 Buy Now Fourth Wing By Rebecca Yarros 446,334 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Fourth... Price: $20. 99 $11. 22 Buy Now Reminders of Him By Colleen Hoover 322,594 ratings A troubled young mother yearns for a shot at redemption in this heartbreaking yet hopeful story from... Price: $15. 95 $9. 57 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-09-28 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/one-word-reactions-what-our-single-word-summaries-reveal/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: book emotions, book reactions, fourth wing, housemaid, lessons in chemistry, one-word reviews, reading impact Can one word say it all? Discover what our single-word reviews say about the reading experience. Every so often, we sum up a book in one word. It sounds simple, but it says a lot. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden – “Unsettling. ” The creeping dread builds with every chapter. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros – “Electrifying. ” Heart-pounding action and romance. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus – “Uplifting. ” Fierce, funny, and full of hope. One word can capture the core emotion of a book — whether it’s suspense, warmth, or thrill. It’s a quick shorthand that tells you exactly what you’re in for. What’s your one-word review for the last book you read? The Housemaid By Freida McFadden 553,881 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Housemaid: #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller and addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping... Price: $5. 99 Buy Now Fourth Wing By Rebecca Yarros 446,334 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Fourth... Price: $20. 99 $11. 22 Buy Now Lessons in Chemistry By Bonnie Garmus 316,002 ratings THE FUNNY AND INSPIRING, MULTI-AWARD-WINNING BESTSELLER WITH MORE THAN 8 MILLION... Price: $13. 42 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-09-20 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/setting-as-character-when-location-becomes-the-story/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: atmospheric books, book settings, fourth wing, immersive reads, lisa jewell, lock every door Some places aren’t just backdrops — they drive the story. Explore books where setting takes the lead. Sometimes the place itself feels alive. In Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, the Bartholomew apartment building isn’t just a backdrop — it’s a character in its own right, with secrets in every shadowed hallway. In The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell, the inherited Chelsea mansion shapes every twist in the story. It holds history, tension, and a silent kind of menace. Even in Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros, the war college feels like a living, breathing force — shaping friendships, rivalries, and fates. A well-written setting influences mood, paces the story, and sticks in your mind. Sometimes, it’s the place you remember most. If you could step into one setting from our reviews, where would it be? Lock Every Door By Riley Sager The Family Upstairs By Lisa Jewell Fourth Wing By Rebecca Yarros 446,334 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Fourth... Price: $20. 99 $11. 22 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-09-18 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/under-the-surface-why-scene-stealing-side-characters-matter/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: book dynamics, book lovers, cerulean sea, character development, memorable characters, side characters Some characters barely get screen time—but leave a lasting mark. Here’s why side characters often steal the show. Some characters only get a handful of pages, yet they steal the show. You know the ones, witty best friends, mysterious neighbours, or the child who says exactly what you needed to hear. In The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune, Lucy and the other magical children often take centre stage, even though Linus is the main focus. Their quirks and heartfelt moments give the story its charm. In Book Lovers by Emily Henry, Nora’s sister Libby lights up every scene she’s in. Her humour and heart provide balance to the romance, making her just as memorable as the leads. In Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover, young Diem quietly steals every scene she enters. She is not there for drama; she is the heartbeat. Her small questions, sudden bursts of joy, and child-true logic keep the adults honest and give the story its light when things feel heavy. Diem turns big moral choices into simple human ones, and that clarity lingers long after the chapter ends. Side characters add depth, contrast, and colour to a story. They can shift the tone, raise the stakes, or deliver the one-liner you’ll quote for weeks. Which side character from our reviews stayed with you long after you closed the book? The House in the Cerulean Sea By T. J. Klune 68,693 ratings A cosy, enchanting story about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected... Price: $9. 80 Buy Now Book Lovers By Emily Henry 100,146... --- - Published: 2025-09-11 - Modified: 2025-09-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/new-releases-readers-favorite-2025/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: award winning books, best new books 2025, book awards 2025, eastern shadows peter nordgren, in the darkness of shards, just love her raz mihal, new book releases 2025, new poetry releases, readers favorite gold medal winners, readers favorite winners, top crime novels 2025 Discover the latest new releases and 2025 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal winners. From thrillers to poetry, these standout books deserve a spot on your shelf. Every year brings a wave of new books, but some stand out immediately, whether through powerful storytelling, reader buzz, or international recognition. As we step into the latest round of releases, here are titles worth putting on your shelf. Spotlight: 2025 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winners The prestigious Readers’ Favorite Book Awards highlight excellence across genres. Here are some of this year’s Gold Medal Winners: Rich Relationships by K. R. Miller (Non-Fiction – Marketing) Born of Water by A. L. Knorr (YA Fantasy) The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven (Fantasy/Mythology) Just Love Her by Raz Mihal (Non-Fiction – Religion/Philosophy) Chasing Money by Michael Balter (Fiction – Crime) HAPPYAGONY by Mem Ferda (Poetry – Love/Romance) These winners span everything from spirituality to crime thrillers, proving that great stories truly come in every form. New Releases Already Turning Heads Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren A tense and atmospheric thriller set in Thailand. A missing woman. A mother who won’t give up. A journalist drawn into a world of corruption and buried truths. Read the review for Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren Eastern Shadows By Peter Nordgren "Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges... Price: $3. 99 Pre-order Now In the Darkness of Shards: Poems from a Broken Place by Catherine Anne Castillo A raw and soul-baring poetry collection. Each piece is sharp, intimate, and unforgettable — a companion for anyone navigating brokenness or healing. In the Darkness of Shards: Poems from a Broken Place By Catherine Anne Castillo 277 ratings... --- - Published: 2025-07-18 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/romance-that-hurts-in-the-best-way-why-we-love-sad-love-stories/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: bittersweet fiction, colleen hoover, emotional romance, sad love stories, taylor jenkins reid, tearjerker books Not every love story ends in roses—and that’s exactly why we love them. These bittersweet romances will break your heart just right. Not all romances end in fairy-tale weddings. Some end in tears, in memories, in bittersweet closure. And sometimes, those are the stories that move us most. We don’t just want happily ever after; we want to feel something real. And heartbreak, when written well, is unforgettable. When Love Meets Loss Books like Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover or November 9 don’t shy away from pain. They dig into grief, guilt, and impossible choices. But even in the sadness, there’s healing. There’s beauty. In One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid, we’re asked the impossible: What if your first love came back after you moved on? What do you do with the love that lingers? These stories leave us cracked open, but also more compassionate. Why It Resonates Because life isn’t always tidy. These books remind us that love is powerful, even when it’s fleeting. That a story can be complete, even without the perfect ending. Tearjerkers Worth the Ride: Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover November 9 by Colleen Hoover One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover Just maybe keep the tissues close. Have a love story that wrecked you in the best way? Share it—we’re always ready to feel something. --- - Published: 2025-07-17 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/the-power-of-the-underdog-heroine-from-surviving-to-thriving/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: feminist fiction, freida mcfadden, inspiring reads, lessons in chemistry, resilient characters, underdog heroine Celebrate heroines who rise from overlooked to unforgettable. These powerful stories show strength where you least expect it. Some heroines don’t wear armour or wield swords, but their strength is just as fierce. They’re overlooked, underestimated, sometimes broken, but they rise. And when they do, we cheer. These are the stories of women who start from the margins and make their way to the centre. Real Power Is Quiet and Unstoppable Take Millie from The Housemaid. She’s not loud or flashy, but she endures. She plans. And when she fights back, it’s all the more satisfying. Or Elizabeth Zott from Lessons in Chemistry. She’s told no at every turn, but she says yes to herself, to science, to motherhood, and to change. These women don’t fit a mould. They break it. Why We Love Them Because we see ourselves in them. We know what it feels like to be ignored, dismissed, or doubted. These heroines remind us we can keep going anyway. That resilience is its own kind of power. Books That Celebrate the Underdog: The Housemaid by Freida McFadden Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson When you’re ready for a story that inspires, start here. Know a great underdog heroine? Drop her name in the comments—we’re always collecting favourites. --- - Published: 2025-07-16 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/what-to-read-when-youre-in-a-slump-5-books-that-hook-you-fast/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: book recommendations, colleen hoover, fast reads, fourth wing, reading slump, thriller books, unputdownable books Stuck in a reading rut? These 5 addictive books will pull you out—fast-paced, emotional, and impossible to put down. We’ve all been there, staring at your bookshelf, feeling absolutely nothing. The dreaded reading slump. But don’t worry. Some books have a special kind of magic: they grab you from page one and don’t let go. Here are five stories we recommend when you need to fall in love with reading all over again. 1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Fantasy, romance, dragons, danger; it has it all. This is the kind of book that sucks you into another world and makes you forget your own. 2. Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover This one hits hard emotionally. It’s beautifully written, raw, and impossible to put down. A perfect mix of pain and hope. 3. Never Lie by Freida McFadden Short chapters, unreliable narrators, and plot twists galore. It’s fast, it’s twisty, and it’s so easy to binge in one sitting. 4. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden A domestic thriller that reads like popcorn: light, fast, and totally addictive. Perfect when you need something to snap you out of a slump. 5. The Night Shift by Alex Finlay Multiple timelines, strong character voices, and a central mystery that keeps you guessing. Great for fans of crime shows. Bonus Tip: Audiobooks can be a great way to ease back in too, especially for thrillers and romances. What’s the last book that pulled you out of a slump? Share it — we’d love to try it. Fourth Wing By Rebecca Yarros 446,334 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Fourth... Price:... --- - Published: 2025-07-15 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/locked-rooms-lost-girls-the-return-of-classic-mystery-setups/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: classic mystery, daisy darker, freida mcfadden, locked room mysteries, modern whodunits, riley sager, suspense fiction Locked doors, unreliable narrators, buried secrets—discover the modern return of classic mystery tropes with a psychological edge. There’s something irresistible about a mystery set in a confined space. No one can leave. Everyone’s a suspect. Secrets bubble up like clockwork. And just when you think you’ve figured it out, another layer unfolds. The locked-room mystery isn’t new. But it’s definitely having a comeback. Agatha Would Be Proud Today’s authors are breathing new life into this classic format. In books like Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney, The Housemaid by Freida McFadden, and Lock Every Door by Riley Sager, we see familiar setups: an isolated location, a limited cast, a slow unravelling. But these stories add psychological grit, unreliable narrators, and trauma-informed characters. It’s not just about who did it; it’s about why we look away, whom we believe, and what we’re capable of in desperate moments. Why Readers Are Obsessed We live in a world of chaos. These stories give us controlled tension. They drop us into tight spaces, raise the stakes, and make us pay attention. The answers are always there, buried in plain sight. And let’s be real: it’s fun to play detective. A Few Modern Favourites: Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney Lock Every Door by Riley Sager The Housemaid by Freida McFadden The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager If you love clues, closed doors, and twisted endings, this subgenre is your sweet spot. Have a locked-room favourite? Share it—we’re always hunting for more. --- - Published: 2025-07-14 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/enemies-to-lovers-why-we-keep-falling-for-this-romance-trope/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: beach read, book lovers, contemporary romance, enemies to lovers, flirty fiction, romance tropes, romcom books From fiery tension to emotional payoff, see why enemies-to-lovers is the romance trope we can’t quit. Featuring Emily Henry and Christina Lauren. There’s a special kind of magic in a romance that begins with a scowl. Whether they’re sparring over work deadlines or stuck on a vacation gone wrong, enemies-to-lovers couples keep us grinning, groaning, and swooning. Why? Because watching two people go from loathing each other to falling in love never gets old. The Tension Is the Point Books like Book Lovers by Emily Henry or The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren thrive on sharp banter and sizzling tension. The chemistry starts in the clash. Every sarcastic jab? Foreplay. Every insult? A breadcrumb toward intimacy. Readers love seeing characters forced to confront their assumptions and, slowly, become vulnerable. By the time the walls fall, we’re already all in. It Feels Earned The best enemies-to-lovers stories let characters grow. They challenge each other. They make each other better. So when the relationship finally shifts, the payoff is rich and deeply satisfying. Want to Fall in Love with a Fight? Start with these irresistible reads: Book Lovers by Emily Henry The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren Beach Read by Emily Henry The Hating Game by Sally Thorne These books bring the heat, the heart, and the hilarious miscommunication we secretly love. Tell us: What’s your favourite enemies-to-lovers moment in fiction? Drop it in the comments. --- - Published: 2025-07-13 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/the-rise-of-soft-fantasy-why-readers-love-books-like-the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: bookish escape, comforting reads, cozy fantasy, feel-good books, low conflict fiction, soft fantasy, t.j. klune Explore the soothing magic of soft fantasy. Learn why readers are falling for quiet, heartwarming tales like The House in the Cerulean Sea. Fantasy used to mean epic battles, sprawling kingdoms, and dragons setting things on fire. And while we still love a good swordfight, there’s a quieter kind of magic readers are falling hard for: soft fantasy. Books like The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune prove that gentle, character-driven stories can be just as powerful. Instead of war and prophecy, we get kindness, found family, and healing. The Magic of Gentle Worlds When life feels heavy, soft fantasy offers an escape that soothes. It’s not about the end of the world. It’s about someone finding their place in it. These books focus on relationships, small joys, and inner growth, with just enough enchantment to make it all feel special. In Cerulean Sea, a by-the-book caseworker visits a home for magical children. What follows isn’t a dramatic clash; it’s a slow shift, filled with warmth and quiet transformation. More Comforting Fantasies to Love If The House in the Cerulean Sea spoke to you, you might also enjoy: Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldree – cozy coffee shop meets retired orc warrior Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett – academic magic meets personal growth Under the Whispering Door by T. J. Klune – another soft, soulful tale about grief and purpose Why It Matters Soft fantasy reminds us that not every story needs high stakes to matter. Sometimes, the smallest acts of love and acceptance are the most magical of all. Have a favourite soft fantasy? Share it... --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/beyond-the-twist-what-makes-a-psychological-thriller-truly-memorable/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: domestic thrillers, freida mcfadden, psychological thrillers, riley sager, suspense books, thriller reviews, twisty reads Discover what makes a psychological thriller unforgettable. It’s more than a twist—it’s the tension, the stakes, and the characters that stay with you. A shocking twist might get all the glory, but let’s be honest, what stays with you long after you finish a psychological thriller isn’t just the “gotcha” moment. It’s the dread that builds slowly. The characters who get under your skin. The moment you close the book and think, well, I won’t sleep tonight. Books like The Housemaid by Freida McFadden or The Night Shift by Alex Finlay do exactly that. Sure, the plot hooks you. But what makes them memorable? It’s how they twist emotion, not just events. It's Not the Twist—It's the Stakes Readers don’t just want to know what happened. We want to know what it cost. Psychological thrillers that resonate go beyond cheap thrills. They explore fear, trauma, and human complexity. The villain might be a murderer, sure. But sometimes they’re also someone you understand a little too well. Characters You Can’t Shake Take Millie in The Housemaid; she’s not just a bystander to chaos. She’s in it. Flawed, unpredictable, and surprisingly resilient. Or the night-shift workers in Finlay’s novel, each with secrets you think you’ve figured out, until you haven’t. Looking to Dive In? If you’re new to the genre, these titles are perfect for getting hooked: The Housemaid by Freida McFadden Lock Every Door by Riley Sager The Night Shift by Alex Finlay The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell Just remember: don’t trust anyone. Especially the narrator. Which thriller left you reeling? Let us know in the comments. --- - Published: 2025-07-08 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/stories-that-heal-the-power-of-fiction-to-make-us-feel-seen/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: book lovers, book recommendations, character-driven stories, colleen hoover fans, contemporary romance, emotional fiction, feel-good reads, healing books, heartwarming fiction, lessons in chemistry, t.j. klune books, uplifting novels Books can entertain, but they can also hold us through heartbreak, help us laugh again, or remind us of our worth. Our review archive shows that emotionally rich fiction is resonating more than ever. When You See Yourself on the Page In Reminders of Him, Colleen Hoover introduces us to a woman seeking redemption after unimaginable loss. The story is raw, honest, and packed with emotion. Book Lovers captures the magic of second chances and finding unexpected connection in quiet places. Meanwhile, Lessons in Chemistry takes a historical look at women breaking boundaries with intelligence and humour. Whimsy That Wraps Around Your Heart The House in the Cerulean Sea blends fantasy and found-family themes in a story that feels like a soft blanket. It’s uplifting, hopeful, and healing. These books don’t shy away from hard topics, but they always offer a glimmer of hope. Looking for Your Next Feel-Good (or Feel-Deep) Read? Try one of these: Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune Book Lovers by Emily Henry When life feels heavy, sometimes a good story is the light that pulls us through. --- - Published: 2025-07-06 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/why-were-drawn-to-darkness-the-enduring-appeal-of-psychological-thrillers/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: best thrillers, book suspense, dark fiction, female-led thrillers, gothic novels, lisa jewell reviews, mystery fiction, psychological thrillers, riley sager books, suspense novels, thriller books, twisty reads There’s a reason why psychological thrillers consistently top our most-viewed reviews list. Whether it’s the unsettling charm of The Housemaid or the creeping tension of The Family Upstairs, readers can’t seem to get enough of the genre’s delicious darkness. We Love the Thrill of the Unknown Psychological thrillers let us experience fear and suspense from the safety of our sofas. There’s something intoxicating about stepping into a world where secrets are everywhere and no one is who they seem. Take Lock Every Door, a gothic-style mystery that traps you in a glamorous apartment full of hidden dangers. Or The Only One Left, where a mute murder suspect and an eerie cliffside mansion bring chills and questions with every page. Empowering, Twisted, and Addictive Many of today’s best thrillers are told through the eyes of flawed, fascinating women. Characters like The Housemaid’s Millie give readers both vulnerability and grit. They’re not just surviving, they’re fighting back. And the structure? Often nonlinear. Often mind-bending. These books reward close readers with big reveals and subtle breadcrumbs along the way. Looking to Dive In? If you’re new to the genre, try starting with: The Housemaid by Freida McFadden Lock Every Door by Riley Sager The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell The Only One Left by Riley Sager Each delivers a tight plot, emotional weight, and unforgettable twists. --- - Published: 2025-07-03 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/%f0%9f%93%9a-10-most-viewed-reviews-on-simple-book-reviews-and-why-you-should-read-them/ - Categories: Blog - Tags: bestselling fiction, booktok favourites, emily henry books, fantasy romance, most popular books, must read list, psychological thrillers, reader favourites, riley sager reviews, simple book reviews, top book reviews, trending books Our readers have spoken. These are the 10 most-viewed books on the site, spanning thrillers, romances, dystopias, and more. If you're searching for your next great read, start here. 1. The Housemaid by Freida McFadden Genre: Psychological ThrillerA gripping story packed with secrets, locked doors, and twists that keep coming. Why buy it: It’s fast-paced, chilling, and perfect for fans of unsettling domestic thrillers. Read Review for The Housemaid by Freida McFadden 2. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros Genre: Fantasy, RomanceA fantasy filled with dragons, magic training, and electric romance. Why buy it: A dream for readers who love high-stakes drama with heart. Read Review for Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros 3. The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune Genre: Whimsical Contemporary FantasyAn uplifting tale about acceptance, magical children, and finding your place in the world. Why buy it: It brings comfort, humour, and hope in equal measure. Read Review for The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune 4. Book Lovers by Emily Henry Genre: Romance, FictionTwo literary rivals find unexpected love in a small town full of charm. Why buy it: Sharp dialogue and satisfying slow-burn romance make it a standout. Read Review for Book Lovers by Emily Henry 5. The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell Genre: Psychological ThrillerAn eerie inheritance, a mansion with secrets, and lives tangled by the past. Why buy it: Clever structure and shocking reveals keep the tension high. Read Review for The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell 6.... --- - Published: 2025-05-31 - Modified: 2025-09-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/hello-book-lovers/ - Categories: Blog Welcome to Simple Book Reviews community. Here you can post or find simple and honest reviews not fancy reviews. Please request for a book to be added to submit your review, or if the book is already in database, then start writing your simple and honest review and rating! Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros By Rebecca Yarros $34. 13 $13. 49 Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Onyx Storm - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Buy Now Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros By Rebecca Yarros $29. 99 $19. 92 Book 2 of 3: The Empyrean - Iron Flame - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Buy Now The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden By Freida McFadden $17. 99 $12. 58 Book 3 of 3: The Housemaid: A twisting, pulse-pounding thriller from Freida McFadden, the New York Times bestselling author of The Housemaid and The Coworker. Buy Now The Housemaid’s Secret by Freida McFadden By Freida McFadden $18. 99 $9. 74 Book 2 of 3: The Housemaid: An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Buy Now Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren By Peter Nordgren $3. 99 "Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges readers deep into Thailand’s underworld, where a vanished woman, a haunted journalist, and a powerful tycoon’s secrets collide in a razor-sharp... --- --- ## Reviews - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-housemaids-secret-review-polished-floors-dirty-secrets/ I tore through The Housemaid's Secret in two sittings and still found time to side-eye every locked door in my flat. What it’s about: Millie returns, trying to keep her life on track with a new housekeeping job in a glossy Manhattan apartment. The wife never leaves the guest room. The husband is charm on a stick. The rules are odd. Then the pay goes up and so do the questions. That is all you need before the rug starts moving under your feet. What I liked: McFadden keeps chapters snappy and the tension tidy, which suits Millie’s dry, survival-mode voice. The moral murk is the fun of it. No one is spotless, everyone has leverage, and the reveals arrive at just the right clip. I also liked how the book nods to consequences from the first novel without making new readers feel lost. What gave me pause: A few coincidences lean convenient, and you will spot one twist if you read a lot of domestic noir. It still lands because the fallout is messy in a satisfying way. Try this if you love: Lisa Jewell’s knotty secrets, Ruth Ware’s closed-room unease, and bingeable, high-stakes nanny/housemaid plots. Verdict: Slick, pacey, and deliciously untrustworthy. I had fun. Book reviewed: The Housemaid's Secret By Freida McFadden 305,337 ratings Book 2 of 3: The Housemaid: An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Price: $18. 99 $9. 74 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-09-17 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/shadows-that-whisper-review-for-eastern-shadows-by-peter-nordgren/ Goodreads Mel Reviews There’s something quietly haunting about this one. Eastern Shadows doesn’t yell for attention, it lures you in with a whisper. The writing is clean, the setting richly layered, and the sense of unease builds in slow, deliberate waves. This isn’t your typical missing-person thriller. Yes, there’s a disappearance. Yes, there are lies. But what really drives the story is the atmosphere, the feeling that you’ve stepped into a place that remembers everything, even the things people try to forget. The lead character isn’t some superhero-in-disguise. He’s flawed, a little lost, and trying to do the right thing in a world that keeps shifting under his feet. That groundedness makes the story hit harder when things start to unravel. At times, I did wish for a tighter grip on momentum, the pacing dips in spots, but the emotional undercurrent always pulled me back in. This book is more about uncovering why things happen than racing to what’s next. And that works. It’s thoughtful, restrained, and quietly gripping. Perfect for readers who want their thrillers with depth and a strong sense of place. Book reviewed: Eastern Shadows By Peter Nordgren "Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges... Price: $3. 99 Pre-order Now Goodreads Mel Reviews: Eastern Shadows by Peter Nordgren My rating: 4 of 5 stars This book got under my skin in a quiet way. Eastern Shadows isn’t a loud, twist-packed thriller, but it knows exactly how to build tension. The setting is vivid, almost like... --- - Published: 2025-09-17 - Modified: 2025-09-17 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-thriller-with-depth-review-for-eastern-shadows/ Eastern Shadows surprised me. It’s not the kind of thriller that races ahead with twists every other page, but it pulls you in with mood and detail. The setting is so well drawn it almost feels alive, and that gave the whole book a steady, atmospheric weight. The main character felt refreshingly real, uncertain, imperfect, and very human. That made it easier to root for him, especially when things turned tense. The story does move at a slower pace, and there were moments where I wanted it to pick up, but the pull of the mystery kept me turning pages. What I enjoyed most was the mix of suspense and emotion. It isn’t only about uncovering a secret, but also about understanding the people behind it. That gave the book a thoughtful edge I wasn’t expecting. If you like your thrillers layered, with strong characters and a rich setting, this one is worth picking up. Book reviewed: Eastern Shadows By Peter Nordgren "Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges... Price: $3. 99 Pre-order Now --- - Published: 2025-08-01 - Modified: 2025-08-01 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/in-the-mirror-review-of-good-girl-by-aria-aber/ Aria Aber’s debut novel Good Girl follows 19-year-old Berlin-born Nila Haddadi, the daughter of Afghan immigrants, who navigates the collision of heritage and freedom in an electrifying artistic subculture. As Nila chases photographic dreams and battles grief, she dives into a world of underground clubs, drugs, and a fraught romance with older American writer Marlowe. Through her voice, Berlin pulses, not just as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing character. Critics praise Aber’s writing as “poet’s novel, replete with sparkling prose”. What stands out is the emotional authenticity: Nila’s internal monologues invite you in, raw and impulsive, yet never distant. Though the pacing slows at moments, the vivid texture of place and identity more than compensate. As Kirkus notes, “Art is a fragile magic, just like love” — kirkusreviews. com. A bold, lyrical debut — powerful in emotion and atmosphere, if not breakneck in pace. Why you'll love it:Good Girl offers a poignant journey through the life of Nila, a 19-year-old Afghan-German artist navigating Berlin’s underground art scene. It's a coming-of-age tale that subtly wrestles with heritage, autonomy, and the creative process. Book reviewed: Good Girl: A Novel By Aria Aber 297 ratings A story of love and family, raves and Kafka, staying up all night and surviving the mistakes of youth, Good... Price: $29. 00 $16. 61 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-07-06 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/just-love-her-by-raz-mihal/ This one’s a little different, and that’s exactly why it stuck with me. Just Love Her isn’t your typical linear story. It’s poetic, spiritual, and more like a heart-led reflection than a plot-heavy novel. The narrator speaks directly from the soul, touching on divine love, connection, and what it really means to feel. Spoiler-safe zone: Everything below refers to the overall tone and themes, not plot events past the early chapters. It took me a few pages to settle into the rhythm, but once I stopped trying to understand it with my mind and let myself feel it through the heart, something clicked. This book isn’t here to entertain, it’s here to stir something deeper. There are moments that feel like whispers to the soul. It’s romantic in a transcendent way, spiritual without being preachy, and full of quiet intensity. Not everyone will “get it,” and that’s okay. But if you’ve ever felt love so deep it broke you open, this one might speak to you. Book reviewed: Just Love Her By Raz Mihal 68 ratings "Just Love Her" by Raz Mihal is a spiritual exploration of divine love and soul connection. Through heartfelt... Price: $25. 99 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-03-23 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-neighbor-a-detective-d-d-warren-novel/ I just finished The Neighbor: A Detective D. D. Warren Novel by Lisa Gardner, and wow, what a ride! This book had me hooked from the very first chapter. It starts with the sudden disappearance of Sandra Jones, a young mother who seemingly vanishes without a trace. Her husband, Jason, is secretive and uncooperative, their marriage isn’t as perfect as it seems, and their four-year-old daughter may know more than she lets on. Enter Detective D. D. Warren, who is determined to uncover the truth, but with every clue, the case gets more unsettling. What I loved most about this book is how Gardner keeps you second-guessing everything. Every character feels unreliable, and just when I thought I had it figured out, she threw in a twist that completely changed my perspective. The psychological depth of the story adds an eerie, almost claustrophobic feeling, like you're trapped in the mystery yourself. My only minor complaint is that the pacing starts off a little slow, but once it picks up, it’s impossible to put down. The ending? Let’s just say I’m still thinking about it! If you love dark, twisty thrillers that keep you guessing until the last page, this one is definitely worth reading. Book reviewed: The Neighbor: A Detective D. D. Warren Novel By Lisa Gardner --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/ralphs-party/ Ralph's Party by Lisa Jewell is an engaging and delightful debut that takes place in a quirky London apartment building. The novel centers around Ralph, a man who has been stuck in a routine and is secretly pining for his best friend, Jem, who happens to be dating someone else. His life gets even more complicated when his new roommate, Smith, enters the picture, a laid-back, carefree guy who seems to have a handle on life, in stark contrast to Ralph's uncertainty. Through a series of funny and awkward situations, the characters explore the challenges of love, friendship, and the struggle to figure out what they really want in life. As their relationships twist and turn, Ralph's Party shows that sometimes, the most unexpected connections can change everything. Lisa Jewell delivers a narrative full of humor, vulnerability, and warmth, with characters who feel wonderfully real and relatable. The novel captures the ups and downs of modern relationships with plenty of laughs along the way, while also providing moments of poignant reflection. It’s an easy, fun read that reminds us how complex and messy love can be, while still leaving us with a sense of hope and possibility. Book reviewed: Ralph's Party By Lisa Jewell --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/bitten/ Bitten by Kelley Armstrong is an exciting and fast-paced novel that introduces readers to Elena Michaels, the world’s only female werewolf. Elena struggles to maintain a normal life while being pulled back into the dangerous world of the supernatural, and the story balances action with emotional depth as she faces the challenges of both human and wolf sides. What really makes Bitten stand out is the way Armstrong blends supernatural elements with real-world emotions. Elena is a strong, relatable character, and her complicated relationship with Clayton—her former lover—adds an emotional layer to the story. The pacing is just right, with enough suspense and action to keep you hooked, but also enough heart to make you care about what happens to these characters. Armstrong creates a gritty, immersive world filled with danger, intrigue, and compelling characters. If you enjoy paranormal stories that mix romance, mystery, and adventure, Bitten is definitely worth a read. It’s a great start to a series that offers much more than just werewolves—it’s about the choices we make, the people we love, and the battles we fight within ourselves. Book reviewed: Bitten By Kelley Armstrong 3,598 ratings On the eve of her marriage, Elena Michaels learns that her fiance has been concealing his secret life as a werewolf... Price: $11. 93 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/stop-me-if-youve-heard-this-one/ Kristen Arnett’s Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One is a darkly funny and surprisingly emotional journey of self-reinvention. The story follows Cherry Hendricks, a down-on-her-luck clown in Orlando who’s struggling to make ends meet. She’s a mess, caught between self-sabotage and a desperate need for change. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Margot the Magnificent, a magician offering her a new opportunity that might just change everything. Arnett excels at balancing sharp, absurd humor with deeper emotional moments. Cherry is a fascinatingly flawed protagonist, sarcastic, often frustrating, but incredibly relatable. Her journey of trying to find her footing, while also grappling with personal failure and identity, feels both tragic and hilariously absurd at times. The setting, a world of clowns and magicians in Florida, gives the book a quirky, offbeat vibe that perfectly matches its themes of reinvention and the search for meaning. Though the plot meanders a bit and is more character-driven than action-packed, the humor and emotional depth keep you hooked. If you’re into messy, complicated characters and humor that makes you both laugh and think, this book will hit the spot. It’s a funny, weird, and unexpectedly poignant read about the chaos of life, trying to change, and the humor that often comes with it. Book reviewed: Stop Me If You’ve Heard This One By Kristen Arnett --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/invisible-girl/ I just finished Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell, and I couldn't put it down. This psychological thriller grabs you right from the start and doesn’t let go. The story follows Owen, a lonely schoolteacher with a shady past; Saffyre, a troubled young woman who becomes obsessed with Owen; and Cate, Owen’s sister-in-law, who starts to think he’s hiding something. What I really liked about this book was how real the characters felt. Owen’s quiet desperation really got to me, and Saffyre’s vulnerability added an emotional layer that made me feel for her. The shifting perspectives between these characters kept me on edge, and just when I thought I had the story figured out, there was another twist. The book dives deep into guilt, shame, and how people can be invisible to each other, and I appreciated how Jewell handled those themes. The twists were satisfying, though I’ll admit, some of them were a little predictable for anyone who reads a lot of thrillers. Overall, I found Invisible Girl to be a gripping, intense read. If you like psychological thrillers with complex characters and lots of twists, this one’s definitely worth picking up. Book reviewed: Invisible Girl By Lisa Jewell --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-substitute/ Nicole Lundrigan’s The Substitute is a slow-burning psychological thriller that creeps under your skin and stays there. It’s dark, unsettling, and deeply psychological, focusing on the twisted relationship between a mother and her son. The story follows Warren Botts, a socially awkward substitute teacher who finds himself entangled in a nightmare when a student of his, Amanda, is found dead. As suspicion falls on him, the narrative shifts between Warren’s perspective and the unsettling voice of an unnamed character whose connection to him slowly unravels. The novel expertly plays with perspective, keeping you on edge about who can be trusted and what’s really happening. Lundrigan’s writing is sharp and immersive, making even the most mundane interactions feel charged with tension. The way she builds suspense is masterful—layering psychological unease with an ever-growing sense of dread. If you love thrillers that rely on atmosphere and character psychology rather than nonstop action, this one is for you. The only downside? It’s a slow burn, so if you prefer fast-paced thrillers with constant twists, this might feel a bit too drawn out. But if you enjoy intelligent, thought-provoking suspense that lingers long after you’ve turned the last page, The Substitute is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Substitute By Nicole Lundrigan --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/hideaway/ Hideaway follows Rowan and Maisy, two siblings trapped under the control of their manipulative mother, Gloria. When Rowan escapes, he seeks refuge with a stranger, but soon discovers that his new “safe place” isn’t as secure as he thought. As Rowan navigates his escape, Gloria’s influence continues to haunt them both, and the story unravels layers of family dysfunction, trauma, and hidden dangers. The book is a slow-burn thriller with deep emotional undertones. The characters, especially Gloria, are complex and chilling, and Lundrigan does a fantastic job building tension through their interactions. While the pace might feel slower for readers who prefer more action-driven plots, the emotional depth and suspense kept me hooked. The story’s exploration of toxic relationships and survival makes it more than just a typical thriller; it's an intense, emotional journey that lingers long after you finish. Book reviewed: Hideaway By Nicole Lundrigan --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-unhoneymooners/ The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren is a delightful rom-com that combines humor, heart, and a gorgeous setting. Olive and Ethan, two people who can’t stand each other, are forced to take a honeymoon trip together after the rest of Olive’s family gets food poisoning. The catch? They’re stuck on the trip of a lifetime to Hawaii, with no way out. The best part of this book is the dynamic between Olive and Ethan. Their banter is witty and fun, and it’s easy to see their relationship evolve from pure antagonism to something deeper. The slow-burn romance is full of chemistry, making the eventual romantic moments satisfying and sweet. The tropical setting adds an extra layer of escapism, and Christina Lauren’s writing keeps the pace moving and the humor flowing. While the plot may be a bit predictable at times, it doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the book. The characters are well-developed, and the humor balances nicely with the emotional moments. The Unhoneymooners is a perfect beach read or getaway escape, especially for fans of enemies-to-lovers stories. Book reviewed: The Unhoneymooners By Christina Lauren --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/miss-mabels-school-for-girls/ Miss Mabel’s School for Girls is a delightful introduction to The Network series by Katie Cross. The story follows the determined and talented Daisy, who is sent to a mysterious school for girls with magical abilities. At Miss Mabel's, Daisy learns to hone her powers while navigating friendships, rivalries, and hidden secrets that could change everything. The world-building is rich, with a perfect blend of magic, mystery, and suspense. The characters are likable, and Daisy’s journey of self-discovery is both compelling and relatable. The mix of magic and personal growth makes this book perfect for fans of young adult fantasy with strong female protagonists. If you enjoy books with magical schools, secrets, and plenty of twists, Miss Mabel’s School for Girls is a must-read. Book reviewed: Miss Mabel's School for Girls By Katie Cross --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/sunrise-on-the-reaping/ Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins is an engaging prequel to The Hunger Games, offering a fascinating look at Haymitch Abernathy during the 50th Hunger Games, the Second Quarter Quell. The story reveals a darker, more brutal side of the Games, showing the harsh realities Haymitch faced and the emotional toll it took on him. I found the exploration of media manipulation and survival particularly compelling. Collins does a great job showing how the Capitol uses the Games as propaganda, making it relevant to today’s world of media and messaging. Haymitch’s character is more complex than I expected, and his bond with fellow tribute Maysilee Donner adds an emotional layer to the story that made me care about the characters even more. The writing is powerful, and the pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish. While some parts are emotionally heavy, they make the story feel real and meaningful. If you're a fan of the Hunger Games series, this prequel will give you a deeper understanding of Panem's history and Haymitch's past, while also standing strong on its own. Overall, I found Sunrise on the Reaping to be a satisfying and thought-provoking read that both expands the Hunger Games universe and adds more depth to the characters we already know. Book reviewed: Sunrise On The Reaping By Suzanne Collins --- - Published: 2025-03-21 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/ill-be-gone-in-the-dark/ Michelle McNamara’s I’ll Be Gone in the Dark is an intense and haunting look at the Golden State Killer case. McNamara dives deep into the mystery behind the unsolved crimes, blending thorough research with personal insight into her obsession with finding the killer. Her writing pulls you in from the start, giving a voice to the victims and showing the psychological toll the case had on those trying to solve it. The book isn’t just about the crimes, it’s a glimpse into McNamara’s own life and determination to bring justice, even as she struggled with her own personal challenges. What makes this book even more powerful is the fact that McNamara passed away before it was finished. But her work was instrumental in finally identifying the Golden State Killer years later. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark is both an emotional tribute to her dedication and an essential read for anyone interested in true crime. Book reviewed: I’ll Be Gone in the Dark By Michelle McNamara --- - Published: 2025-03-21 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-secret-history-of-the-rape-kit-a-true-crime-story/ The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story by Pagan Kennedy is an eye-opening exploration of the history, development, and impact of rape kits in criminal investigations. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Kennedy brings to light the essential role these kits play in solving cases, while also addressing the systemic flaws that have led to the underutilization of this crucial evidence. The book not only provides a historical context for the creation of rape kits but also weaves in poignant narratives from survivors, law enforcement, and medical professionals, highlighting the importance of the kit in the fight for justice. With its blend of investigative journalism and personal stories, The Secret History of the Rape Kit is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a topic that is often overlooked in the broader conversation around sexual assault. Kennedy’s writing is both informative and empathetic, making this a must-read for anyone interested in true crime, forensic science, or the pursuit of justice for survivors of sexual violence. Book reviewed: The Secret History of the Rape Kit: A True Crime Story By Pagan Kennedy --- - Published: 2025-03-21 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-idiot/ The Idiot by Elif Batuman is a wonderfully offbeat and darkly comic coming-of-age novel. It follows Selin, a Turkish-American student starting her first year at Harvard in the 1990s. As she navigates the awkwardness of college life, Batuman takes us inside her mind, where humor and confusion blend together seamlessly. The novel’s charm lies in its dry, intellectual humor and the quirky lens through which Selin views the world. Her experiences with language, relationships, and self-discovery are sometimes painfully awkward, yet often hilariously relatable. The way Selin’s thoughts and observations unfold feels both deeply personal and universal, giving readers a window into the struggles of growing up and figuring out who you really are. The Idiot is a clever, witty exploration of identity, love, and intellectual life, all wrapped up in a narrative that feels more like a series of fascinating vignettes than a traditional story. If you like dark humor and enjoy a slower, more introspective pace, this one’s a must-read. Elif Batuman has crafted a sharp and unforgettable novel that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Book reviewed: The Idiot By Elif Batuman --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-handmaids-tale/ I liked "The Handmaid's Tale" because it really made me think about the dangers of a society where power and control are in the hands of a few. The way Margaret Atwood built this dystopian world was both fascinating and terrifying. I liked how the protagonist, Offred, was relatable and complex, even in such an oppressive environment. The writing was sharp, and the pacing kept me hooked from start to finish. It's a book that stays with you, and I found myself reflecting on its themes long after reading it. Overall, it’s a powerful and eye-opening novel that I highly recommend. Book reviewed: The Handmaid's Tale By Margaret Atwood --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/brave-new-world/ I really liked Brave New World. The way Huxley imagines a future where everything is controlled and everyone is kept in line by pleasure and technology is both fascinating and unsettling. The society in the book might seem perfect at first—people are happy, there’s no war, no pain—but you quickly realize that this "perfect" world comes at a heavy price. Personal freedom is sacrificed, and people are stripped of their individuality. What stood out to me was the whole concept of happiness being artificially manufactured. The drug soma is used to keep everyone content, no matter what’s happening around them. It made me think about how easy it is to numb ourselves to reality with distractions and comfort, something that feels pretty relevant today. The characters, especially Bernard Marx and John, the “savage,” offer different views on what freedom and happiness really mean. The ending left me with a lot to think about, especially when it comes to the balance between safety and individuality. All in all, Brave New World is definitely a book that sticks with you. It made me question how far we’re willing to go to avoid discomfort in exchange for control. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who likes dystopian novels that make you think. Book reviewed: Brave New World By Aldous Huxley 44,632 ratings Set in a dystopian future, Brave New World presents a highly controlled society where technology, genetic... Price: $21. 99 $10. 89 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-sellout/ The Sellout by Paul Beatty is a biting, darkly comedic satire that dives deep into issues of race, identity, and social justice in America. The novel centers on Me, the protagonist, who is taken to court for attempting to reinstate segregation in his hometown. This absurd premise sets the stage for Beatty's sharp and fearless commentary on racial inequality, political correctness, and the contradictions in contemporary society. The humor is dark and often uncomfortable, but it's precisely this discomfort that forces readers to confront the absurdities of modern-day racial dynamics. Beatty’s writing is smart, witty, and often irreverent, making The Sellout both thought-provoking and hilarious at the same time. The novel’s combination of absurdity, humor, and social critique makes it a unique and memorable read. It's a challenging book, but if you're into dark comedy and satire that pushes boundaries, this one is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Sellout By Paul Beatty --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-only-one-left/ Riley Sager’s The Only One Left is a gripping thriller set in a creepy mansion on a cliff in Maine. The story follows Kit, a young woman who becomes a caretaker for Lenora Hope, a mute woman accused of killing her family years ago. The book has a great, eerie atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re right there in the mansion, uncovering its dark secrets with Kit. Lenora’s silence adds a lot of mystery, and as Kit digs deeper, the story keeps you guessing about what really happened to the Hope family. Sager’s twisty plot does a fantastic job of keeping you on the edge of your seat, with plenty of surprises along the way. The tension builds as Kit uncovers more clues, and just when you think you know what’s going on, another shocking twist happens. The ending wraps everything up nicely, and it’s a wild ride to get there. If you love suspenseful thrillers with lots of twists, this book will keep you hooked from start to finish. Book reviewed: The Only One Left By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/in-cold-blood/ In Cold Blood is a gripping true crime novel that details the brutal murder of a Kansas family in 1959. Truman Capote, the author, immerses readers into the chilling real-life story of the Clutter family’s deaths and the subsequent investigation into the killers, Perry Smith and Richard Hickock. Capote’s writing is both elegant and haunting as he builds suspense while uncovering the emotional and psychological complexities of both the victims and the murderers. The book’s pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish, and Capote’s in-depth research provides a chilling portrayal of the crime and its aftermath. What stands out in In Cold Blood is Capote’s ability to humanize both the victims and the criminals. He doesn’t just focus on the horrific acts but also brings out the backgrounds, motivations, and personalities of the two murderers, making their actions even more unsettling. The sense of dread and inevitability builds slowly throughout the narrative, leaving readers contemplating the nature of crime, punishment, and human depravity long after the last page. A must-read for anyone interested in true crime, In Cold Blood is a haunting, thought-provoking masterpiece that explores the darkest parts of human nature. Book reviewed: In Cold Blood By Truman Capote --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/then-she-was-gone/ Lisa Jewell’s Then She Was Gone is a gripping psychological thriller that masterfully blends suspense with deep emotional tension. The story follows Laurel Mack, a mother struggling with the decade-old disappearance of her teenage daughter, Ellie. When Laurel meets a man whose young daughter bears an uncanny resemblance to Ellie, long-buried secrets begin to unravel. Told through multiple perspectives and timelines, the novel slowly reveals shocking truths, keeping the suspense high. Jewell’s writing is both haunting and engaging, creating a sense of unease that lingers. The characters are deeply flawed yet realistic, adding emotional weight to the mystery. While some twists may feel predictable, the novel remains a compelling and emotional read. A thought-provoking and unsettling story, Then She Was Gone is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers. Book reviewed: Then She Was Gone By Lisa Jewell --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-family-upstairs/ The Family Upstairs is a gripping psychological thriller that weaves together suspense, dark family secrets, and shocking twists. The story follows Libby Jones, who inherits a mansion linked to a family found dead under mysterious circumstances. As Libby uncovers the truth, the narrative shifts between multiple perspectives, including those of surviving family members, revealing a haunting past. Lisa Jewell excels in creating complex, flawed characters and building tension throughout the book. The multiple timelines keep readers on edge, and while they may initially feel disorienting, they ultimately enhance the suspense. The shocking twists and emotional depth make for a thrilling read, though the ending lingers with a sense of unease. Book reviewed: The Family Upstairs By Lisa Jewell --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-forgotten-garden/ I absolutely loved The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton. The story follows Nell, a woman who, after discovering that her true identity has been kept from her, embarks on a journey to uncover her past. The book weaves between different timelines, giving readers glimpses into both the present-day search for answers and the historical events that shaped her family’s secrets. I found the writing so vivid and immersive. Morton does a great job of making the garden itself feel like a character in the story, and the setting really drew me in. The twists and family drama kept me hooked, and I loved how everything came together in the end. It’s a beautiful mix of mystery, love, and the complicated bonds that tie families together. Book reviewed: The Forgotten Garden By Kate Morton --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/cold-as-hell/ I just finished Cold as Hell, the third book in Kelley Armstrong’s Haven's Rock series, and I couldn’t put it down. The story takes place in the isolated town of Haven’s Rock, where Detective Casey Duncan is called in to investigate a crime during a brutal blizzard. The storm traps everyone inside, and the tension is palpable as Casey works to uncover the truth behind the crime. Kelley Armstrong’s writing is as engaging as always. The mystery is suspenseful, and the chilling, snowbound setting really adds to the atmosphere. I love how Armstrong creates this sense of urgency, everyone is trapped in the town, and the storm intensifies the danger. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. What really makes this book stand out, though, are the characters. Casey Duncan is a fantastic protagonist, strong, smart, and relatable. The emotional layers she brings to her investigation make the story more than just a mystery. And the relationships between the characters feel real and are so well-developed. You really feel for them as they navigate the danger and pressure of the situation. Overall, Cold as Hell is a gripping read that I highly recommend to fans of mysteries with great characters and a tense, atmospheric setting. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this series! Book reviewed: Cold as Hell By Kelley Armstrong 986 ratings New York Times bestselling author Kelley Armstrong returns to Haven’s Rock in Cold as Hell as Casey Duncan hunts... --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-inmate/ The Inmate by Freida McFadden had me hooked from the first page. The story follows Gwen, a woman who is wrongfully convicted and sent to prison, where she quickly learns that the world behind bars is far more dangerous than she ever expected. As she battles to survive, Gwen starts uncovering chilling secrets that might just be her ticket to freedom. McFadden does an excellent job of building suspense throughout the novel. The pacing is fast, and each chapter pulls you deeper into Gwen's fight for survival. The twists and turns kept me on edge, and just when I thought I had it all figured out, another surprise came along to turn everything upside down. What really stood out to me was Gwen herself. She's a tough, relatable character who faces incredible odds, but her strength and determination make her journey incredibly compelling. The secondary characters add depth to the story, and the prison setting gives the book a gritty, tense atmosphere that felt real and intense. Overall, The Inmate is a thrilling psychological ride that delivers constant suspense and unexpected twists. If you love dark, twisty thrillers with a strong, resilient protagonist, this one is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Inmate By Freida McFadden --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/never-lie/ Never Lie is a captivating psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story centers on Dr. Lila, a woman who is trying to rebuild her life after a devastating personal tragedy. She gets involved in a chilling case when she’s asked to evaluate a woman named Amber, who claims to have witnessed a crime. As Lila digs deeper into Amber’s past, she uncovers startling secrets and begins to question everything she thought she knew. Freida McFadden does an excellent job of creating a tense, fast-paced narrative. The plot is full of unexpected twists, and just when you think you have it all figured out, McFadden throws in another shocking revelation. The pacing is spot-on, with plenty of suspense to keep you turning pages quickly. What stood out most to me was how McFadden built the tension between the characters. Lila is an intriguing, multi-layered protagonist who constantly wrestles with her own doubts and fears. The story unravels through her perspective, which adds a sense of urgency and makes the twists feel even more impactful. Overall, Never Lie is a brilliant, twist-filled thriller. It’s the kind of book that keeps you guessing until the very end, with a gripping storyline and characters that pull you in. Book reviewed: Never Lie By Freida McFadden --- - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/american-psycho/ American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis is a chilling and satirical look at the emptiness of consumer-driven 1980s America. The novel follows Patrick Bateman, a wealthy, privileged Manhattanite with a double life as a ruthless serial killer. Ellis’s portrayal of Bateman’s descent into madness is unsettling, filled with graphic violence and a cold, detached narrative that mirrors the protagonist's inability to connect with humanity. While the novel's shock value often overshadows its plot, it’s undeniably effective in conveying the moral decay and superficiality of the era. Bateman's obsession with appearances, status, and consumption highlights a society that’s lost touch with real emotions and meaning. It's a dark, uncomfortable read, but one that forces you to confront uncomfortable truths about capitalism, identity, and the human psyche. Ellis’s writing is sharp, disorienting, and often intentionally superficial—much like the world he’s critiquing. American Psycho is both a disturbing critique of the times and a biting commentary on the dangerous intersection of wealth, power, and indifference. It’s not for everyone, but its impact is undeniable. Book reviewed: American Psycho By Bret Easton Ellis 13,410 ratings Patrick Bateman is 26 and works on Wall Street. Handsome, sophisticated, charming and intelligent, he is also a... Price: $9. 99 $9. 18 Buy Now --- - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-stranger-beside-me/ I really enjoyed The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule. The way she combines her personal experience with Ted Bundy and her investigative research creates such a compelling, eerie narrative. What makes this book so unique is Rule’s close connection to Bundy; she knew him before his crimes were discovered. They even worked together at a crisis hotline, and she considered him a friend. It’s incredibly unsettling to read about how she grappled with the realization that the man she knew was capable of such horrific acts. The book is both a memoir and a detailed account of Bundy’s crimes, and I found myself completely engrossed in Rule’s storytelling. She paints a vivid picture of Bundy’s manipulative charm and the chilling duality of his personality. The emotional conflict Rule faces throughout the book, as she shifts from believing in Bundy’s innocence to confronting his guilt, adds so much depth to the narrative. It’s not just about the crimes themselves, it’s about trust, betrayal, and the horror of realizing you’ve been deceived by someone you thought you knew. Overall, I couldn’t put the book down. It’s one of the most haunting true crime books I’ve read, not only because of the crimes but because of the emotional journey Rule takes us on. The Stranger Beside Me is a must-read for any true crime fan, offering a gripping and heartbreaking look at one of the most infamous serial killers in history. Book reviewed: The Stranger Beside Me By Ann Rule --- - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/disturbing-the-dead/ I really liked Disturbing the Dead by Kelley Armstrong because it kept me hooked from start to finish. The story follows Olivia Taylor-Jones, and I couldn't get enough of her complex character. The mix of supernatural mystery and emotional depth really pulled me in. I love how Armstrong builds the tension around Olivia’s past and how she tries to navigate this strange world. What really worked for me was how the book kept me guessing. Every time I thought I had it figured out, something unexpected would happen, and I’d have to rethink everything. The twists were so well done. Olivia's personal growth also stood out to me. She’s strong but also vulnerable, which makes her really relatable. And the relationships in the book, especially the ones she forms with the people around her, felt so genuine and added a lot of depth to the story. Overall, if you enjoy a good mystery with a touch of the supernatural and strong, layered characters, I highly recommend Disturbing the Dead. It’s a book that grabs your attention and keeps you thinking long after you’ve finished. Book reviewed: Disturbing the Dead By Kelley Armstrong --- - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-hitchhikers-guide-to-the-galaxy/ I really enjoyed The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy because it’s just so fun and different. The way Douglas Adams mixes absurdity with humor had me laughing out loud pretty much the entire time. The main character, Arthur Dent, is just a regular guy trying to deal with the weirdest situations, and I love how his reactions to the madness around him are so relatable. Then there’s Ford Prefect, the alien who seems to know way more than he lets on, and Marvin, the depressed robot, both characters are so entertaining and add a lot of charm to the story. What I liked most was how unpredictable it was. The plot doesn’t follow any traditional structure, it’s all over the place, and that’s what makes it so enjoyable. There’s also this hilarious, dry humor throughout the book that makes you reflect on life, but in a funny, lighthearted way. For example, the whole "42 is the answer to life, the universe, and everything" is both ridiculous and oddly brilliant at the same time. It’s a book that doesn’t take itself seriously, and because of that, it’s really easy to dive into and have fun with. If you like books that are out of the ordinary and filled with witty humor and quirky characters, then this one’s a must-read. I’d give it a 5/5 because it’s one of the most fun and unique books I’ve ever read. If you’re into dark comedy, sci-fi, or just need a laugh, this book has... --- - Published: 2025-01-14 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/november-9/ November 9 is an emotional and unconventional romance that explores fate, timing, and second chances. Fallon and Ben meet by chance on November 9, just before she moves across the country. Drawn to each other, they agree to meet on the same date every year for the next five years, with no contact in between. As their lives change, secrets come to light, making them question if their connection is strong enough to withstand time and distance. Colleen Hoover masterfully balances romance with heart-wrenching twists. While some plot points may feel dramatic, the story’s emotional depth and unexpected revelations make it an engaging read. Fans of Hoover’s unique storytelling will find themselves swept away by Fallon and Ben’s journey. Book reviewed: November 9 By Colleen Hoover --- - Published: 2024-02-24 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/twice-in-a-blue-moon/ A heartfelt second-chance romance, Twice in a Blue Moon explores love, betrayal, and redemption. Tate and Sam fell in love on a European vacation, but when Sam betrays her trust, their relationship is shattered. Fourteen years later, they cross paths again in Hollywood, forcing them to confront their past and the love they never forgot. While the story has emotional moments, it’s fairly predictable and lacks the charm of Christina Lauren’s best books. It’s a sweet, easy read, but it doesn’t pack the emotional punch that some may expect. Book reviewed: Twice in a Blue Moon By Christina Lauren --- - Published: 2024-02-09 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-true-love-experiment/ A fun and flirty romance, The True Love Experiment is a lighthearted take on love, reality TV, and self-discovery. Felicity “Fizzy” Chen is a bestselling romance author who has never actually been in love. When documentary filmmaker Connor Prince casts her in a dating reality show, she unexpectedly finds herself drawn to him instead. While the premise is engaging and the banter is fun, the execution feels a bit predictable. It’s a cute, easy read but lacks the depth of some of Christina Lauren’s earlier works. If you’re looking for a breezy rom-com, this one delivers, but don’t expect anything groundbreaking. Book reviewed: The True Love Experiment By Christina Lauren --- - Published: 2024-01-30 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/fourth-wing/ A thrilling mix of fantasy, romance, and action, Fourth Wing is an addicting read for fans of dragons and magical academies. Violet is thrust into the brutal world of the Dragon Rider quadrant despite her fragile nature. With ruthless competitors and a deadly training regimen, survival seems impossible—until she forms an unexpected connection with Xaden, the mysterious and dangerous leader. While the book starts with familiar fantasy tropes, the world-building and fast-paced storytelling make it stand out. The romance is intense, the stakes are high, and the plot twists keep you hooked. If you love books like Divergent or A Court of Thorns and Roses, this one is for you! Book reviewed: Fourth Wing By Rebecca Yarros 446,334 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Fourth... Price: $20. 99 $11. 22 Buy Now --- - Published: 2024-01-29 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/rock-paper-scissors/ Rock Paper Scissors is a psychological thriller filled with twists, tension, and a foreboding atmosphere. Adam and Amelia’s marriage is crumbling, and a weekend retreat to a secluded Scottish castle is meant to save it. But the trip quickly turns sinister as long-buried secrets come to light, and it becomes clear they are not alone. Alice Feeney masterfully builds suspense with dual perspectives and unreliable narrators. The eerie, isolated setting adds to the tension, making this a gripping read. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Feeney throws in another twist. A must-read for fans of dark and twisty thrillers. Book reviewed: Rock Paper Scissors By Alice Feeney --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-killer-across-the-table/ A chilling and insightful dive into the minds of serial killers, The Killer Across the Table by John E. Douglas is a must-read for true crime fans. John Douglas, a former FBI profiler and the inspiration behind Mindhunter, takes readers through his interviews with four infamous murderers. By analyzing their motives, behaviors, and psychological patterns, he offers a fascinating yet disturbing look at what drives people to commit unspeakable crimes. The book is well-researched and gripping, though the graphic nature of the cases may not be for everyone. Hearing the killers’ twisted reasoning in their own words makes for a haunting read. If you’re fascinated by criminal profiling and forensic psychology, this book is an absolute must. Book reviewed: The Killer Across the Table By John E. Douglas --- - Published: 2024-01-25 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-maid/ The Maid by Nita Prose is a charming and cozy mystery featuring an unforgettable protagonist. Molly Gray is a socially awkward yet lovable maid who works at an upscale hotel. When she discovers a wealthy guest dead in his suite, her unique way of seeing the world makes her the prime suspect. As she tries to clear her name, secrets about the hotel and its guests begin to unravel. Molly’s character is endearing, and the story has a classic whodunit feel with a modern twist. Some readers may find her portrayal as neurodivergent a bit stereotypical, but her quirky nature adds charm to the narrative. If you enjoy light mysteries with an engaging protagonist, this is a great pick! Book reviewed: The Maid By Nita Prose --- - Published: 2024-01-23 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/one-true-loves/ One True Loves is a heart-wrenching and beautifully written novel that explores love, loss, and self-discovery. Emma Blair thought she had the perfect life with her high school sweetheart, Jesse, until he goes missing in a tragic accident. Years later, she has rebuilt her life and found love again with Sam. But when Jesse is miraculously found alive, Emma must confront an impossible choice: the man she thought she lost forever or the one who helped her heal. Taylor Jenkins Reid masterfully navigates the complexities of love and identity. This isn’t just about choosing between two men, it’s about choosing the version of herself she wants to be. A deeply emotional and thought-provoking read that solidifies TJR as one of the best contemporary fiction writers. Book reviewed: One True Loves By Taylor Jenkins Reid --- - Published: 2024-01-22 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/and-then-you-were-gone/ A gripping psychological thriller, And Then You Were Gone by R. J. Jacobs delivers a fast-paced mystery with a unique protagonist. The story follows Emily Firestone, a woman managing bipolar disorder while navigating a relationship with her boyfriend, Paolo. When Paolo mysteriously disappears during a weekend getaway, Emily finds herself the prime suspect. With her mental health working against her credibility, she must unravel the truth before it’s too late. Jacobs does an excellent job portraying Emily’s inner struggles, making her a compelling but unreliable narrator. The pacing is strong, and the tension builds well, though I found it hard to connect with the supporting characters. Overall, it’s an intriguing read that will keep you turning the pages, but it left me wanting a little more depth. Book reviewed: And Then You Were Gone By R. J. Jacobs 292 ratings After years of learning how to manage her bipolar disorder, Emily Firestone finally has it under control... Price: $25. 99 $18 Buy Now --- - Published: 2024-01-21 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/that-night/ A thought-provoking and deeply emotional young adult novel, That Night by Amy Giles focuses on the aftermath of a tragedy rather than the event itself. After surviving a school shooting, Jess and Lucas are left grappling with grief, survivor’s guilt, and the weight of moving forward. Rather than dwelling on the details of the attack, this book explores how trauma affects those left behind, the pain of losing loved ones, the struggle to redefine oneself, and the slow journey toward healing. Amy Giles writes with sensitivity and authenticity, capturing the raw emotions of survivors. Jess and Lucas’s relationship is beautifully developed, showing how shared pain can lead to hope and new beginnings. A poignant read that emphasizes resilience and the human capacity to heal. Book reviewed: That Night By Amy Giles --- - Published: 2024-01-19 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/final-girls/ A gripping and suspenseful psychological thriller, Final Girls by Riley Sager is a must-read for fans of horror-inspired mysteries. Quincy Carpenter is the sole survivor of a brutal massacre, earning her the label of a “Final Girl”—a term used to describe women who survive horror-movie-like killings. She has worked hard to move on, but when another Final Girl is found dead, she’s forced to confront her past. Teaming up with the enigmatic and unpredictable Sam, she begins unraveling shocking truths that could put her in danger once again. This book keeps readers guessing, playing with unreliable narration and shocking twists. While some elements lean into horror tropes, the storytelling is compelling and addictive. Riley Sager delivers yet another thrilling read that keeps you on edge until the very last page. Book reviewed: Final Girls By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2024-01-18 - Modified: 2025-06-14 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-list-of-cages/ A deeply moving and emotional young adult novel, A List of Cages by Robin Roe explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the power of friendship. Adam and Julian were once foster brothers, but after years apart, they find themselves reunited in high school. Adam, a popular senior with ADHD, is assigned to help Julian, a quiet and isolated freshman struggling to find his place. As their bond rekindles, Adam begins to realize that Julian’s home life is far from safe, leading him on a mission to protect his friend at all costs. This book is heartbreaking, infuriating, and deeply powerful. Roe does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of abuse and the failures of the system. While some of the hardships Julian faces felt overwhelming, the story’s underlying message of hope and kindness makes it an unforgettable read. Highly recommended for readers who appreciate hard-hitting contemporary fiction. Book reviewed: A List of Cages By Robin Roe 960 ratings When Adam Blake lands the best elective ever in his senior year, serving as an aide to the school psychologist, he thinks he's got it made. Price: $17. 99 $16. 58 Buy Now --- - Published: 2024-01-07 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/people-we-meet-on-vacation/ A heartwarming and witty romance, People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry is the perfect read for fans of the friends-to-lovers trope. Poppy and Alex have been best friends for twelve years, taking an annual summer vacation together despite their opposite personalities. But after a disastrous trip to Croatia, they stopped speaking. Now, two years later, Poppy is determined to rekindle their friendship with one final vacation. Told in alternating timelines, flashing back to past trips and following their present journey, this book captures the beauty of friendship, love, and self-discovery. Emily Henry’s writing is sharp, funny, and emotional. The chemistry between Poppy and Alex is palpable, making their slow-burn romance feel incredibly real. A must-read for contemporary romance lovers. Book reviewed: People We Meet on Vacation By Emily Henry --- - Published: 2024-01-07 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-collective/ A dark and thought-provoking psychological thriller, The Collective by Alison Gaylin explores the extremes of grief and revenge. Five years after losing her daughter to a privileged young man who escaped justice, Camille is drowning in anger and loss. When she stumbles upon an anonymous online group for grieving mothers, she finally finds a place where her pain is understood. As she gets drawn into the secretive world of The Collective, she realizes that their thirst for vengeance isn’t just talk, real actions have real consequences. The book is fast-paced and compelling, keeping readers on edge as Camille questions the morality of justice and the price of revenge. While the twist at the end didn’t completely shock me, it left me with lingering questions. If you love psychological thrillers with morally complex characters, this one is worth the read. Book reviewed: The Collective By Alison Gaylin --- - Published: 2024-01-07 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/reminders-of-him/ A raw and emotional story of redemption, motherhood, and second chances, Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover tugs at the heartstrings. After serving time in prison, Kenna returns to the town where everything went wrong, hoping to reconnect with her young daughter. But the people in her daughter’s life, including the child’s guardians, refuse to forgive her past mistakes. The only person willing to give her a chance is Ledger, a local bar owner who has his own reservations about letting her in. As always, Colleen Hoover crafts an emotional rollercoaster filled with complex characters and deep emotions. While certain elements of the romance felt rushed, the story as a whole was captivating. Fans of Hoover’s signature writing style will appreciate this heartbreaking yet hopeful tale. Book reviewed: Reminders of Him By Colleen Hoover 322,594 ratings A troubled young mother yearns for a shot at redemption in this heartbreaking yet hopeful story from... Price: $15. 95 $9. 57 Buy Now --- - Published: 2024-01-03 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/seven-fallen-feathers-racism-death-and-hard-truths-in-a-northern-city/ A powerful and heartbreaking work of investigative journalism, Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga sheds light on systemic racism and injustice faced by Indigenous youth in Canada. The book recounts the tragic deaths of seven Indigenous students (Jordan Wabasse, Kyle Morrisseau, Curran Strang, Robyn Harper, Paul Panacheese, Reggie Bushie, and Jethro Anderson), who left their homes in remote communities to pursue an education, only to lose their lives in Thunder Bay. Talaga meticulously details the failures of the education, legal, and political systems that continue to neglect Indigenous communities. This book is a must-read for all Canadians. It confronts uncomfortable truths and challenges the widespread ignorance surrounding Indigenous rights and history. While difficult to read, it is essential in understanding the ongoing struggles Indigenous communities face today. Book reviewed: Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City By Tanya Talaga --- - Published: 2024-01-03 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-last-time-i-lied/ An atmospheric and twist-filled thriller, The Last Time I Lied by Riley Sager is the perfect summer camp mystery. Fifteen years ago, Emma watched her three cabinmates disappear into the woods, never to be seen again. The only clue? A cryptic game of "Two Truths and a Lie" they played that night. Now, she’s invited back to Camp Nightingale as an instructor, and she’s determined to uncover the truth about what happened. As Emma digs deeper, eerie events begin unfolding, blurring the line between paranoia and reality. The camp setting adds a deliciously creepy layer to the suspense, making it feel like a classic slasher film with a psychological twist. With its gripping plot, unexpected revelations, and haunting atmosphere, The Last Time I Lied is a must-read for mystery lovers. The ending took me by surprise, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! Book reviewed: The Last Time I Lied By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2024-01-02 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/home-before-dark/ A chilling mix of haunted house horror and psychological thriller, Home Before Dark by Riley Sager is an eerie, unputdownable read. Twenty-five years ago, Maggie Holt’s parents fled Baneberry Hall in the dead of night, claiming it was haunted. Her father turned their experience into House of Horrors, a bestselling memoir filled with ghostly encounters. But Maggie doesn’t remember any of it—and she certainly doesn’t believe in ghosts. When she inherits Baneberry Hall after her father’s passing, she decides to return, determined to restore and sell it. However, as she unravels the truth, strange occurrences start to mirror the events in House of Horrors, making her question whether her father’s book was fiction or reality. Told through alternating timelines, this atmospheric thriller keeps readers guessing until the very end. While the final twist felt slightly over the top, the spine-tingling suspense and gothic setting make this a must-read for horror and mystery fans. Book reviewed: Home Before Dark By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2024-01-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-song-of-achilles/ A beautifully written and deeply emotional retelling of The Iliad, The Song of Achilles reimagines the love story between Achilles and Patroclus. Told from Patroclus’ perspective, the novel follows their journey from childhood friends to lovers, leading up to the infamous Trojan War. Miller’s prose is poetic and immersive, capturing the intensity of their bond and the weight of Achilles’ destiny. While the romance is undeniably touching, Patroclus occasionally comes across as overly dependent on Achilles, making their relationship feel imbalanced at times. However, the novel’s ending is both powerful and heartbreaking, cementing its place as a modern classic in LGBTQ+ historical fiction. For fans of Greek mythology, tragic love stories, and lyrical writing, The Song of Achilles is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Song of Achilles By Madeline Miller --- - Published: 2023-12-31 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/tonight-we-rule-the-world/ A powerful and emotionally raw novel, Tonight We Rule the World by Zack Smedley tackles trauma, identity, and resilience. Told in dual timelines, the book follows Owen as he navigates high school, friendship, and first love while also dealing with the aftermath of a life-altering event, his sexual assault. As an anonymous tip leads to a school investigation, Owen struggles with whether to speak his truth. This book is an important and much-needed exploration of male sexual assault, a topic rarely addressed in YA fiction. It’s heartbreaking but necessary, offering validation and hope for survivors. Smedley’s writing is honest and compelling, making Tonight We Rule the World a must-read for those who appreciate impactful contemporary fiction. Book reviewed: Tonight We Rule the World By Zack Smedley --- - Published: 2023-12-31 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/meant-to-be/ Meant to Be is a sweeping love story inspired by John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, offering a blend of glamour, heartbreak, and destiny. Joe Kingsley is American royalty, raised under immense public scrutiny with expectations to follow in his legendary father’s footsteps. Cate Cooper, a model from a troubled past, has worked hard to escape the shadows of her childhood. On paper, their worlds don’t align, but their chemistry is undeniable. Told from dual perspectives, the novel explores love under the spotlight, the pressure of expectations, and the sacrifices required to forge your own path. While the storytelling is engaging and the romance compelling, the ending left me feeling somewhat unsatisfied. It’s an enjoyable read, but it doesn’t quite capture the emotional depth of Giffin’s previous works. Book reviewed: Meant to Be By Emily Giffin --- - Published: 2023-12-30 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/beach-read/ A witty, emotional, and surprisingly deep romance, Beach Read by Emily Henry is the perfect mix of humor, heart, and slow-burn chemistry. January is a romance novelist who has lost her belief in happily-ever-afters, while Augustus is a literary fiction writer who thrives on tragedy. They’ve never gotten along—until they find themselves living in neighboring beach houses, both struggling with writer’s block. After a drunken argument, they strike a deal: January will write a serious literary novel, and Augustus will try his hand at romance. Weekends are spent on "research" dates, from romantic outings to interviewing cult survivors for inspiration. The result? A story that is as much about grief, personal growth, and self-discovery as it is about love. With fantastic banter and well-developed characters, Beach Read is more than just a romance—it’s a heartfelt, beautifully crafted novel that will stay with you. Book reviewed: Beach Read By Emily Henry 90,125 ratings A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge... Price: $16. 00 $9. 33 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-30 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea/ The House in the Cerulean Sea by T. J. Klune is a heartwarming and whimsical tale about acceptance, found family, and embracing the extraordinary. Linus Baker is a rigid, by-the-book caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. When he’s assigned to investigate an orphanage on a remote island, home to six dangerous yet misunderstood magical children, he expects a routine inspection. Instead, he finds himself drawn into their world, and falling for their enigmatic caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. This book radiates warmth and charm while addressing deeper themes of prejudice and systemic oppression. While some elements may have been inspired by real-life historical events, it ultimately serves as a hopeful and uplifting story about love, change, and seeing beyond fear. If you’re looking for a feel-good fantasy with diverse representation and an enchanting story, The House in the Cerulean Sea is an absolute delight. Book reviewed: The House in the Cerulean Sea By T. J. Klune 68,693 ratings A cosy, enchanting story about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected... Price: $9. 80 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-30 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-book-of-cold-cases/ A haunting and suspenseful mystery, The Book of Cold Cases by Simone St. James combines true crime, ghostly elements, and psychological intrigue. In 1977, Beth Greer, a wealthy and eccentric woman, was accused of the infamous Lady Killer murders. Though acquitted, she became a recluse, living alone in her mansion for decades. Forty years later, Shea Collins, a true crime blogger and survivor of an abduction attempt, convinces Beth to give her an exclusive interview. But as Shea spends more time at the Greer estate, she begins experiencing unexplainable phenomena. Is Beth manipulating her? Or is something far more sinister at play? With a gripping dual timeline, eerie atmosphere, and a chilling slow-burn mystery, The Book of Cold Cases is a must-read for fans of supernatural thrillers and true crime fiction. Book reviewed: The Book of Cold Cases By Simone St. James --- - Published: 2023-12-30 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/twenty-years-later/ A gripping investigative thriller, Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea keeps readers on edge with its intriguing premise and shocking twists. Twenty years ago, bestselling author Cameron Young was found murdered in his mansion, and his mistress, Victoria Ford, was the prime suspect. But when she perished on 9/11, the case was closed; until now. When her DNA is unexpectedly recovered at Ground Zero, journalist Avery Mason sees the perfect opportunity for a career-defining story. As Avery digs deeper, she uncovers secrets that could change everything. But with her own dark past threatening to surface, she must tread carefully. With expertly woven timelines, well-developed characters, and an unpredictable mystery, Twenty Years Later is an engrossing read for fans of true crime-inspired thrillers. Book reviewed: Twenty Years Later By Charlie Donlea --- - Published: 2023-12-29 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-sun-down-motel/ Simone St. James delivers another spine-chilling thriller with The Sun Down Motel, a dual-timeline mystery packed with eerie atmosphere and supernatural suspense. 1982: In upstate New York, Viv takes a night shift job at the rundown Sun Down Motel. When she starts noticing strange occurrences and sensing that someone, or something, is watching her, she decides to investigate. Then, she vanishes without a trace. 2017: Carly, Viv’s niece, has always wondered what happened to her aunt. When she arrives in Fell, New York, and lands the same night shift job at The Sun Down Motel, she starts uncovering disturbing truths that put her own life at risk. This book is a perfect blend of true crime, ghost story, and small-town secrets. With its gripping dual narrative and eerie setting, The Sun Down Motel is a must-read for fans of atmospheric thrillers. Book reviewed: The Sun Down Motel By Simone St. James --- - Published: 2023-12-24 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-night-shift/ A fast-paced and gripping thriller, The Night Shift by Alex Finlay is packed with suspense, multiple POVs, and shocking twists. On New Year’s Eve in 1999, three employees at a Blockbuster store are brutally murdered, with only one survivor, Ella. The suspect vanishes without a trace. Fifteen years later, an eerily similar crime occurs at an ice cream shop, with another lone survivor. FBI agent Keller, defense attorney Chris, and Ella, now a therapist, are drawn into the investigation as they uncover chilling connections between the two cases. With short chapters, relentless pacing, and a compelling mystery, this book is a page-turner. If you love thrillers with strong female leads and clever twists, The Night Shift is worth picking up. Book reviewed: The Night Shift By Alex Finlay --- - Published: 2023-12-24 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/seven-days-in-june/ A beautifully written second-chance romance, Seven Days in June by Tia Williams delivers deep emotion, rich storytelling, and unforgettable characters. Eva Mercy is a single mother and bestselling erotica author, while Shane Hall is an award-winning literary writer known for his reclusive nature. When Shane unexpectedly appears at a Black author panel where Eva is presenting, their painful past comes crashing back, one that has been subtly woven into the stories they’ve written over the years. Over the course of seven intense days, they are forced to confront the passionate, life-changing week they spent together as teenagers, the heartbreak that followed, and the scars they both still carry. More than just a romance, this book explores themes of motherhood, chronic illness, generational trauma, and addiction with sensitivity and depth. With humor, raw emotion, and sizzling chemistry, Seven Days in June is a love story that lingers long after the final page. Book reviewed: Seven Days in June By Tia Williams --- - Published: 2023-12-16 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lessons-in-chemistry/ Brilliantly written and utterly engaging, Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is a novel that blends humor, feminism, and resilience into a powerful story. Set in the 1960s, the book follows Elizabeth Zott, a fiercely intelligent chemist whose career is constantly derailed by the sexism of her time. When circumstances force her to become the host of a cooking show, she turns it into an unconventional science lesson for women everywhere. Garmus delivers a novel that is both thought-provoking and heartwarming. The writing is sharp, the humor is well-placed, and the characters, especially Elizabeth and her dog, Six-Thirty, are unforgettable. With its mix of historical fiction, humor, and social commentary, Lessons in Chemistry is a must-read. Expect to laugh, cry, and walk away feeling inspired. Book reviewed: Lessons in Chemistry By Bonnie Garmus 316,002 ratings THE FUNNY AND INSPIRING, MULTI-AWARD-WINNING BESTSELLER WITH MORE THAN 8 MILLION... Price: $13. 42 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-16 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/things-we-do-in-the-dark/ Things We Do in the Dark has all the elements of a great thriller (multiple timelines, a true-crime podcast connection, and dark secrets), but it didn’t fully grip me. The novel follows Paris, a woman whose past is catching up to her after her husband’s high-profile murder. As she tries to stay out of the spotlight, a journalist digging into her past threatens to unravel everything. While the plot is interesting, I found some twists predictable and the pacing uneven. Still, Hillier’s writing is engaging, and fans of psychological suspense may enjoy this one. A decent read, but not my favorite from the author. Book reviewed: Things We Do in the Dark By Jennifer Hillier --- - Published: 2023-12-16 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/looking-for-jane/ A powerful and moving debut, Looking for Jane by Heather Marshall explores motherhood, choice, and resilience through the lens of history. Inspired by true events, the novel follows three women across different time periods in Canada, all connected by an underground abortion network known as "The Janes. " Their intertwined stories shine a light on the struggles women faced before abortion was legalized, as well as the sacrifices made by those who fought for reproductive rights. Marshall’s writing is compelling, and her characters feel deeply real. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction that tackles important social issues with heart and depth. Book reviewed: Lock Every Door By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/true-biz/ A thought-provoking novel that explores Deaf culture, identity, and language, True Biz by Sara Novic is both educational and emotionally impactful. The story follows February, the headmistress of a struggling school for Deaf students, and Charlie, a teenager who has grown up with a malfunctioning cochlear implant and no exposure to sign language. While Charlie finds her place at the school, February fights to keep it open, dealing with funding issues, government policies, and personal struggles. Novic, who is Deaf herself, does a fantastic job integrating ASL, Deaf history, and cultural nuances into the narrative. While the story itself felt a little uneven and the ending somewhat rushed, the novel offers a valuable perspective on a community that is often underrepresented in literature. If you’re looking for a book that blends fiction with social commentary and want to learn more about Deaf culture, True Biz is a solid choice. Book reviewed: True Biz By Sara Novic --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-strangers/ A raw and emotionally powerful novel, The Strangers by Katherena Vermette is a poignant exploration of generational trauma, identity, and survival. Told from multiple perspectives, the novel follows three generations of Métis women: Phoenix, a teenager in prison; her sister Cedar-Sage, who is in foster care; their mother Elsie, struggling with addiction; and their grandmother Margaret, who carries the weight of her past with bitterness and regret. Vermette weaves together their stories with skill and compassion, showing how systemic failures and personal choices have shaped their lives. The characters are flawed yet deeply human, making it impossible to place blame on any one person. This book is not an easy read, it’s heartbreaking and heavy, but it’s also deeply moving and important. If you appreciate literary fiction that tackles difficult themes with honesty and depth, The Strangers is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Strangers By Katherena Vermette --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/indelible/ Karin Slaughter delivers another intense thriller with Indelible, a gripping installment in the Grant County series. The novel opens with a shocking hostage situation at the police station, where Sara and Jeffrey find themselves at the mercy of masked gunmen. As the tension builds, the story alternates between the present crisis and flashbacks to a weekend from Sara and Jeffrey’s past, one that reveals dark secrets about Jeffrey’s hometown and the people he once trusted. Slaughter masterfully balances suspense with character development, peeling back layers of Jeffrey and Sara’s complex relationship while weaving in plenty of twists. While this book is less graphic than others in the series, it still packs a psychological punch. If you enjoy crime thrillers with compelling backstories and high-stakes action, Indelible is a must-read. Book reviewed: Indelible By Karin Slaughter --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-06-14 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-faint-cold-fear/ Few authors hook readers as quickly as Karin Slaughter, and A Faint Cold Fear is no exception. Set several months after Kisscut, the story follows Jeffrey and Sara as they investigate a string of suspicious suicides on a college campus. Meanwhile, Lena—now working as campus security—seems intent on pushing everyone away as she deals with her own trauma. The mystery is compelling, and Slaughter’s signature dark and gritty storytelling keeps you on edge. However, the tension between the main characters can be frustrating at times. While the case itself is intriguing, this book felt more like a bridge in the series, setting up future character arcs rather than delivering the same punch as its predecessors. A solid crime thriller, but not my favorite in the series. Hoping for more resolution in the next installment! Book reviewed: A Faint Cold Fear By Karin Slaughter 11,619 ratings A suicide on a college... Price: $24. 95 $21 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/kisscut/ Kisscut is an unflinching and disturbing thriller that pulls no punches. Sara, Jeffrey, and Lena are still reeling from their last case when a shocking crime shakes their small town, 13-year-old Jenny is caught attempting to murder a teenage boy outside a skating rink. As they investigate, they uncover a horrifying underground world of abuse and manipulation. Slaughter’s writing is graphic, intense, and at times deeply unsettling, but never gratuitous. She handles dark subject matter with precision, making this a difficult yet compelling read. Sensitive readers should be warned, this book is not for the faint of heart. For those who appreciate gritty crime fiction that doesn’t shy away from hard truths, Kisscut is a gripping page-turner. Book reviewed: Kisscut By Karin Slaughter --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/book-lovers/ A witty and heartfelt romance, Book Lovers by Emily Henry is a love letter to bookish people and the enemies-to-lovers trope. Nora is a sharp, ambitious literary agent whose life revolves around her career and her sister, Libby. When Libby insists on a three-week getaway to the small town of Sunshine Falls, Nora reluctantly agrees—only to run into Charlie, a grumpy, no-nonsense editor she’s clashed with in the past. As their paths continue to cross, their chemistry becomes undeniable. What starts as professional rivalry evolves into an irresistible connection built on shared passion for books, honesty, and family obligations. With sharp banter, lovable characters, and a refreshing take on romance, Book Lovers is a standout. If you love intelligent, character-driven rom-coms with depth, this one is a must-read. Book reviewed: Book Lovers By Emily Henry 100,146 ratings One summer. Two rivals. A plot twist they didn't see coming... Price: $17. 00 $9. 69 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/tomorrow-and-tomorrow-and-tomorrow/ Beautifully written and deeply moving, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin is a novel about love, ambition, and the power of creativity. The story spans three decades, following the lives of Sam and Sadie, two childhood friends who reunite in college and create a groundbreaking video game. Alongside their friend and producer, Marx, they build an empire, but success comes with challenges. Their friendship is tested by love, rivalry, loss, and the pressures of fame. While video games serve as the backdrop, this novel is about so much more: relationships, identity, and the fine line between art and commerce. Even if you aren’t a gamer, Zevin’s storytelling will pull you in. The characters are flawed yet deeply human, making you feel every triumph and heartbreak. If you love literary fiction that explores friendship, ambition, and the complexities of life, this book is a must-read. Thought-provoking, emotional, and unforgettable, Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow is one of the best books of the year. Book reviewed: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow By Gabrielle Zevin --- - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lovelight-farms/ A delightful and heartwarming small-town romance, Lovelight Farms by B. K. Borison is the perfect holiday read. Stella Bloom has always dreamed of running a Christmas tree farm, but financial struggles threaten to ruin her dream. In a desperate attempt to save it, she enters a contest that could bring much-needed publicity and a $100,000 prize. The only catch? She told a little white lie, claiming she co-owns the farm with her boyfriend. Except... that boyfriend doesn’t exist. Luckily, her best friend Luka is willing to play the role, and as their fake-dating arrangement unfolds, real feelings begin to surface. With its cozy setting, charming romance, and just the right amount of spice, this book is perfect for fans of the friends-to-lovers trope. If you love holiday romances that feel like a Hallmark movie with a little extra heat, Lovelight Farms is a must-read. Book reviewed: Lovelight Farms By B. K. Borison --- - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-huntress/ Kate Quinn delivers another thrilling historical novel with The Huntress, a slow-burning but gripping tale of revenge, survival, and justice. The story follows Ian, a former war reporter turned Nazi hunter, and Nina, a fearless ex-member of the Night Witches, the Soviet Union’s all-female bomber regiment. Both are on the hunt for The Huntress, a deadly Nazi war criminal who vanished after the war. Meanwhile, in Boston, 17-year-old Jordan starts questioning her widowed father’s new fiancée, a German woman with a shadowy past. As their stories intertwine, the tension builds toward a satisfying, high-stakes conclusion. While the pacing is slow at times, the historical details and the Night Witches subplot make this a fascinating read. If you enjoy WWII historical fiction with strong female leads and a touch of mystery, The Huntress is worth your time. Book reviewed: The Huntress By Kate Quinn --- - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lease-on-love/ A charming, modern rom-com with grumpy x sunshine vibes, Lease on Love by Falon Ballard is a fun and flirty read. Sadie’s life takes an unexpected turn when she’s fired from her finance job. After a drunken mix-up on a dating app, she ends up meeting Jack, a quiet, introverted man who offers her a room in his Brooklyn brownstone. Their arrangement is meant to be strictly platonic, but as they spend more time together, feelings begin to grow. Jack is sweet, nerdy, and reserved, while Sadie is bold, ambitious, and full of fire, creating the perfect contrast. Their slow-burn romance is filled with humor, heart, and just the right amount of angst. While Sadie’s stubbornness may frustrate some readers, the book’s witty dialogue and lovable side characters make up for it. If you love roommate-to-lovers stories with strong female leads, Lease on Love is an enjoyable pick. Book reviewed: Lease on Love By Falon Ballard --- - Published: 2023-12-05 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-change/ A fierce and empowering feminist thriller, The Change by Kirsten Miller is a genre-blending novel full of mystery, supernatural elements, and revenge. In the coastal town of Mattauck, NY, three middle-aged women discover they have extraordinary powers. Nessa, a former nurse, can hear the voices of the dead. Jo, a fitness coach, has an uncontrollable inner strength. Harriet, a former executive, has a deep connection to nature and the knowledge to create powerful herbal remedies. When the body of a young girl is found on the beach, Nessa realizes there are more victims—and together, the women take it upon themselves to bring justice where the system has failed. Dark, witty, and unapologetically feminist, this novel gives off Big Little Lies meets The Witches of Eastwick vibes. If you love books about strong, determined women taking down corrupt men, The Change is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Change By Kirsten Miller --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-house-across-the-lake/ Riley Sager delivers another twisty psychological thriller in The House Across the Lake, a story filled with unreliable narrators, eerie atmospheres, and unexpected turns. Casey Fletcher, a once-famous actress, is drowning in grief, and bourbon, after the tragic loss of her husband. Banished to her family’s remote lake house to recover from a public meltdown, she spends her days drinking and spying on her neighbors through binoculars. When she saves former supermodel Katherine Royce from drowning, the two form an unexpected bond. But Casey’s curiosity soon turns into an obsession, especially when she starts suspecting that Katherine’s seemingly perfect marriage is hiding dark secrets. Then, Katherine vanishes without a trace. Determined to uncover the truth, Casey enlists the help of her neighbor Boone, a widowed ex-cop with his own troubled past. But as she digs deeper, she realizes that nothing is as it seems, and some secrets are more dangerous than others. Told in alternating timelines, this novel keeps you on edge with its unpredictable twists. While some readers may find the paranormal twist unnecessary, others will appreciate the eerie, supernatural element that sets it apart from typical thrillers. If you enjoy unreliable narrators, slow-burn mysteries, and stories that keep you guessing, this book is worth the read. Book reviewed: The House Across the Lake By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/missing-clarissa/ A modern true-crime-inspired mystery, Missing Clarissa follows two teenage girls who start a podcast investigating a decades-old disappearance, but not every mystery is meant to be solved. Twenty years ago, Clarissa Campbell vanished without a trace, and now high school students Cam and Blair are determined to uncover the truth for their journalism class project. As they dig deeper, they uncover buried secrets, suspicious characters, and the dangerous reality of playing detective. Marketed as a YA thriller for fans of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, this book had potential, but it fell flat for me. The main characters felt frustratingly naive, and the plot lacked the depth needed to make the mystery truly compelling. While it might appeal to younger readers or those new to the genre, I personally struggled to stay engaged. There are also trigger warnings (TW: sexual assault) that readers should be aware of. Overall, if you’re looking for a light mystery with podcast vibes, this may work for you. Otherwise, it doesn’t quite hit the mark. Book reviewed: Missing Clarissa By Ripley Jones --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-housemaid/ A gripping psychological thriller with dark domestic suspense, The Housemaid by Freida McFadden is a fast-paced, addictive read. Millie is desperate for a job, and when Nina Winchester offers her a live-in housemaid position in her beautiful home, she can’t believe her luck. Having spent weeks living out of her car, she jumps at the chance, even if the attic room she’s given feels eerily small and locked from the outside. But things quickly spiral into a nightmare. Nina’s behavior is erratic, her demands unreasonable, and her gaslighting tactics relentless. Meanwhile, Nina’s handsome husband, Andrew, appears sympathetic, offering Millie a reassuring presence in the chaos. But Millie has secrets of her own, and as tensions rise, it becomes clear that no one in the Winchester household is as they seem. This book is packed with twists, making it impossible to put down. While some moments feel over-the-top, it delivers the kind of suspense that keeps you hooked until the last page. If you love domestic thrillers like The Wife Between Us, this one is a must-read! Book reviewed: The Housemaid By Freida McFadden 553,881 ratings Book 1 of 3: The Housemaid: #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller and addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping... Price: $5. 99 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/iona-iversons-rules-for-commuting/ A heartwarming and delightful story about human connection, Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting is the perfect feel-good read. Every day, Iona Iverson takes the same train with the same group of strangers. Following her own unspoken rules, such as never talking to fellow passengers, she simply observes. But when one commuter, Pier, chokes on a grape, Iona jumps into action. This moment sparks a chain of interactions that lead to an unlikely, yet beautiful, friendship among a diverse cast of characters, including a dreamer, a student, an investor, and a nurse. Told from multiple perspectives, the book highlights the power of human connection, breaking social barriers, and the unexpected friendships that can change lives. With humor, warmth, and plenty of charm, this novel is a great pick for fans of Anxious People by Fredrik Backman. If you love stories that make you smile, this one is for you. Book reviewed: Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting By Clare Pooley --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/little-secrets/ A dark and emotional domestic thriller, Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier is a suspenseful story filled with secrets, betrayals, and heartbreak. Marin has everything, a successful career, a loving husband, and a beautiful life. But in an instant, her world shatters when her young son is kidnapped from a busy marketplace. A year later, with no leads and no closure, Marin is barely holding on. Just when she thinks things can’t get worse, she discovers that her husband is having an affair with a much younger woman, Kenzie. Marin may not be able to find her son, but she’s determined to save her marriage, no matter what it takes. As the story unfolds from both Marin’s and Kenzie’s perspectives, it adds layers of complexity, forcing readers to question who they should really be rooting for. Fast-paced and full of unexpected twists, this thriller keeps you hooked until the very end. If you enjoy psychological suspense with morally complex characters, Little Secrets is a must-read. Book reviewed: Little Secrets By Jennifer Hillier --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-06-13 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-history-of-wild-places/ A History of Wild Places is an eerie and atmospheric novel about isolation, cult-like communities, and the dangers of blind faith. Years ago, children’s author Maggie St. James disappeared without a trace. When tracker Travis Wren is hired to find her, he stumbles upon the secluded community of Pastoral—only to vanish himself. Years later, Theo, a member of the community, discovers Travis’ abandoned truck and starts questioning everything he’s been taught. The first half of the book is gripping, but the second half slows down, losing some of its initial intrigue. While the premise is fascinating, the execution didn’t fully captivate me. Fans of slow-burn mysteries with an unsettling edge may still find it worth reading. Book reviewed: A History of Wild Places By Shea Ernshaw 3,366 ratings In this “riveting, atmospheric thriller that messes with your mind in the best way” (Laini... Price: $27 $12. 99 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/camp-zero/ Camp Zero presents a chilling vision of a dystopian future where climate disaster has reshaped the world. While the wealthy live in floating cities, the rest of humanity struggles to survive in extreme heat waves and natural catastrophes. Against this backdrop, a diverse group of people find themselves at Camp Zero in the Canadian North—each with their own secretive purpose. The Diggers are laborers hired to construct a new settlement, while The Blooms, a group of women, serve the investors and provide distractions for the men. Meanwhile, Grant, a professor, has been brought in to educate the settlers. Further north, White Alice, an isolated group of women, is conducting climate research that may hold answers about the fate of the planet. As the story unfolds, trust is tested, hidden agendas come to light, and survival becomes more than just a physical challenge, it’s a battle of wits and deception. This novel masterfully blends environmental themes, feminist perspectives, and an eerie, not-so-distant future. While the setting and atmosphere are compelling, the story leaves some unanswered questions, and the ending may not satisfy all readers. Nonetheless, Camp Zero is a thought-provoking read for fans of dystopian fiction and speculative thrillers. Book reviewed: Camp Zero By Michelle Min Sterling 1,322 ratings In a near-future northern settlement, the fates of a young woman, a professor, and a mysterious collective of... Price: $17. 99 $17. 09 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-house-in-the-pines/ At 18, Maya was captivated by Frank, a mysterious young man working at her local library. She became so infatuated that she neglected her best friend Aubrey and even reconsidered going to college. But that same summer, Aubrey died under eerie circumstances, and Maya never fully recovered. Now, seven years later, Maya is struggling with addiction and haunted by her past. When she sees a viral video of a woman dying while sitting across from Frank, old suspicions resurface. Convinced that he’s responsible for both deaths, she returns home to uncover the truth. But with an unreliable memory and a dependency on pills, how can she prove that she’s not imagining things? Ana Reyes delivers a psychological thriller filled with paranoia, obsession, and eerie suspense. While the short chapters and Guatemalan cultural references add depth, the overuse of red herrings and an unreliable narrator may divide readers. If you enjoyed The House Across the Lake, you might love, or hate, this one. A solid pick for fans of twisty, mind-bending mysteries. Book reviewed: The House in the Pines By Ana Reyes --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/mixed-signals/ Some books arrive in your life at just the right time, and for me, Mixed Signals was one of them. Layla Dupree is Lovelight Farms’ beloved baker, known for her delicious treats but not for her luck in love. After countless disappointments in the dating world, she starts to wonder if she’s simply destined to be single. Then there’s Caleb, a former cop turned high school teacher, who keeps getting dumped before reaching the fourth date. In a lighthearted and fun twist, the two agree to a one-month dating experiment: Caleb will show Layla what a real, respectful relationship looks like, and in return, she’ll give him honest feedback on what he’s doing wrong (or right). Of course, we all know where this is headed, but the journey is pure joy. Featuring the beloved fake-dating trope, charming small-town vibes, laugh-out-loud humor, and so many delicious dessert references that you’ll be craving pastries by the end, this book is the perfect feel-good romance. B. K. Borison delivers another warm and cozy love story that’s ideal for breaking out of a reading slump. If you love small-town romance, a sprinkle of spice, and witty banter, this one’s for you! Book reviewed: Mixed Signals By B. K. Borison --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-drift/ A gripping, claustrophobic thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world, The Drift by C. J. Tudor is an intense survival story that keeps you guessing until the very end. A deadly virus is threatening the population, and in the middle of a brutal snowstorm, three groups of strangers find themselves in terrifying situations. Hannah wakes up in the wreckage of a crashed coach bus, trapped inside with survivors and no way to escape. Meg regains consciousness in a cable car, suspended mid-air after a power failure, alongside people headed to a mysterious destination known only as The Retreat. Meanwhile, Carter, an employee at The Retreat, watches as the storm worsens, the power flickers, and the generators keeping them safe from whatever lurks outside begin to fail. As the narrative unfolds, the tension builds, with each storyline weaving into an unexpected puzzle. The atmosphere is eerie, the stakes are high, and Tudor delivers a relentless pace filled with twists, paranoia, and survival horror. The Drift is a perfect read for fans of dystopian thrillers and locked-room mysteries with a chilling, cinematic feel. If you enjoy apocalyptic fiction with an unpredictable, heart-racing plot, this book is a must-read. Book reviewed: The Drift By C. J. Tudor --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/next-of-kin/ A gripping and emotional courtroom drama, Next of Kin follows the harrowing case of an aunt who makes an unthinkable mistake, forgetting her three-year-old nephew in the car, leading to devastating consequences. This novel was our book club pick, and from the very first pages, I was hit with a wave of emotions. As a mother, the premise alone was one of my worst nightmares, and I thought I knew exactly where the story was headed. But I was wrong, again and again. Kia Abdullah masterfully weaves shocking twists into the narrative, keeping readers on edge and second-guessing every assumption. Beyond the legal battle, this book explores deep themes of guilt, responsibility, and family dynamics, making it a perfect pick for book clubs and lovers of intense courtroom thrillers. If you enjoy stories that challenge your moral compass and leave you with plenty to discuss, Next of Kin is a must-read. Book reviewed: Next of Kin By Kia Abdullah --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/take-my-hand/ A powerful and thought-provoking novel inspired by true historical events, Take My Hand by Dolen Perkins Valdez is a deeply emotional read that sheds light on a horrifying chapter in American history. The story follows Civil Townsend, a young Black nurse in 1970s Alabama, who is assigned to administer birth control shots to two young sisters. When she discovers that these girls, only 11 and 14, are neither sexually active nor given a choice in their treatment, Civil begins to unravel a chilling truth, one that exposes the government’s forced sterilization of poor Black women and girls. Told through dual timelines, the novel follows Civil in the present day as she recounts this haunting experience to her daughter. This story is one of regret, injustice, and resilience, leaving readers heartbroken yet inspired. The writing is stunning, and the weight of its historical significance makes this book a must-read for fans of literary and historical fiction. Book reviewed: Take My Hand By Dolen Perkins Valdez --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/pigeon-blood-red/ An action-packed crime thriller, Pigeon-Blood Red follows Rico, an underworld enforcer on a relentless chase after Robert, a desperate gambler who has stolen a priceless necklace. The pursuit takes them from the gritty streets of Chicago to the tropical beauty of Honolulu, where betrayals, danger, and unexpected twists keep the tension high. At first, I struggled to get into the story, but once the chase was in full swing, I found myself fully engaged. The characters are compelling, especially Rico, who brings an interesting moral complexity to the story. For fans of crime fiction and fast-paced thrillers, this book offers a thrilling cat-and-mouse game with enough action and intrigue to keep you entertained. I’ll be picking up the rest of the series! Book reviewed: Pigeon-Blood Red By Ed Duncan --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-one/ What if you could find your soulmate through a DNA match? In John Marrs’ gripping psychological thriller The One, a revolutionary matchmaking service claims to do just that, pairing people based on their genetic compatibility. But love isn’t that simple. Five individuals, each eager to meet their perfect match, soon discover that their ideal partners come with secrets, complications, and even danger. As their stories unfold, the book dives deep into moral dilemmas, human nature, and the question of whether destiny can, or should, be scientifically determined. Fast-paced and full of twists, this novel keeps you hooked until the very end. It’s thought-provoking, unsettling, and perfect for fans of Black Mirror-style speculative fiction. If you love psychological thrillers with a dystopian edge, The One is an absolute must-read. Book reviewed: The One By John Marrs --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/daisy-darker/ A chilling, gothic-inspired thriller, Daisy Darker delivers a locked-room mystery reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. Nana Darker has always known she wouldn’t live past 80, and as her family gathers at her secluded island home to celebrate her birthday, old tensions resurface. But when Nana is found dead at midnight, and another body turns up an hour later, it’s clear that someone among them has a deadly secret. With no way off the island until the tide recedes, the Darker family must survive the night while unraveling the killer’s clues. Alice Feeney masterfully weaves eerie poems, flashbacks, and unexpected twists into this atmospheric novel. While some readers may predict the ending, I found the journey gripping and unpredictable. If you love psychological thrillers with a classic murder-mystery feel, Daisy Darker is a must-read. Book reviewed: Daisy Darker By Alice Feeney --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/lock-every-door/ Spooky, suspenseful, and utterly addictive, Lock Every Door is a perfect read for fans of gothic thrillers. Jules is down on her luck, broke, recently dumped, and desperate for a fresh start. When she lands a job as an apartment sitter at the luxurious Bartholomew building in Manhattan, it seems too good to be true. But the gig comes with strict rules: no visitors, no nights away, and no interaction with the permanent residents. Soon, Jules realizes something is terribly wrong. When another sitter vanishes without a trace, she begins to uncover the building’s sinister history. But at the Bartholomew, asking questions can be dangerous. Fast-paced and atmospheric, Riley Sager delivers a thriller packed with paranoia, mystery, and heart-pounding tension. While it feels familiar, it’s still a highly entertaining ride, especially for the spooky season! Book reviewed: Lock Every Door By Riley Sager --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-14 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-likely-story/ A literary drama filled with family secrets and ambition, A Likely Story follows Isabelle Manning, the daughter of a bestselling New York author, as she struggles to make her own mark in the publishing world. After the sudden death of her mother—the glue that held the family together—Isabelle’s life begins to unravel. As her father struggles to write his final book, Isabelle stumbles upon a hidden secret that could change everything she thought she knew about her past—and shape her future. Leigh McMullan Abramson delivers a well-written story, but the unlikable characters and slow pacing made it difficult to connect with. While the themes of legacy and self-discovery are intriguing, this book may not be for everyone. Book reviewed: A Likely Story By Leigh Mcmullan Abramson 543 ratings The only child of a famous American novelist discovers a shocking family secret that upends everything she thought she... Price: $27. 99 $10. 97 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/the-other-side-of-night/ A mind-bending, genre-blurring thriller, The Other Side of Night is a book unlike any other. David Asha is haunted by the biggest regret of his life, leaving his son Elliot. In his grief, he writes their story, intertwining it with the life of Harriet, a former police officer who stumbles upon a cryptic message in a second-hand book: "Help me, he’s trying to kill me. " As she investigates, she uncovers the tragic past of the Asha family and their connection to Elliot’s guardian, Ben. Is Ben truly who she thought he was? Or is Elliot in danger? This book keeps you guessing, offering a full-circle moment that will leave you reeling. If you enjoy twisty, unconventional thrillers, this one is worth the ride. Book reviewed: The Other Side of Night By Adam Hamdy --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/an-unthinkable-thing/ A 1950s murder mystery filled with family secrets, a suspected serial killer, and a 12-year-old boy portrayed as a monster, on paper, this book has all the makings of a gripping thriller. Unfortunately, it didn’t fully work for me. While I appreciated the courtroom testimonies that framed the story and the suspenseful trial, I found the characters unlikable and difficult to connect with—including young Thomas. The novel attempts to capture the era’s atmosphere, but the 1950s setting didn’t feel immersive. At times, the pacing dragged, and I struggled to stay engaged. However, I did enjoy the twist at the end, which added an extra layer of intrigue. I know many readers loved this book, so it might just be a case of "it’s not you, it’s me. " If you enjoy psychological thrillers with a courtroom drama element, it may still be worth checking out. Book reviewed: An Unthinkable Thing By Nicole Lundrigan 548 ratings A tragedy brings a young boy into the home of a "perfect" family—one whose dark secrets begin closing in, until a... Price: $17. 95 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/dark-room-etiquette/ A harrowing psychological thriller that explores trauma and survival, Dark Room Etiquette by Robin Roe is a gripping YA read that’s hard to put down. Sayers Waites has lived a privileged life, never needing to work hard or face real hardship. But everything changes when he is kidnapped by a man named Caleb, who believes Sayers is his long-lost son, Daniel. Locked in a small, windowless room and chained to a bed, Sayers fights to escape, but soon realizes that in order to survive, he may need to become Daniel. As his identity starts to blur, the novel delves deep into the effects of Stockholm syndrome and psychological manipulation. This fast-paced thriller keeps you on edge with its high-stakes premise and emotional depth. Some aspects felt unrealistic, but given the YA audience, it’s easy to let go and just enjoy the tension-filled journey. The author’s note at the end adds even more weight to the story, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read. Book reviewed: Dark Room Etiquette By Robin Roe --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-27 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/everyone-in-my-family-has-killed-someone/ A refreshingly unique mystery novel, Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone combines dark comedy, crime fiction, and a classic whodunit in a way that’s both entertaining and clever. Ern’s family has a dark past—every single member has killed someone, including himself. As the narrator, he breaks the fourth wall, addressing readers directly and guiding them through a chaotic family reunion where, of course, the bodies start piling up. With sharp humor, plenty of twists, and an unpredictable plot, this book keeps you guessing until the very end. If you’re looking for a mystery with a lighter, more comedic tone, this one is a great palette cleanser. It’s witty, dark, and perfect for fans of unconventional thrillers. Book reviewed: Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone By Benjamin Stevenson --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-25 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/a-slow-fire-burning/ Paula Hawkins, best known for The Girl on the Train, delivers another character-driven mystery, but A Slow Fire Burning doesn’t quite hit the same mark. The novel opens with the gruesome discovery of a young man’s body on his houseboat. The suspects? Laura, a troubled woman with a tragic past who was last seen with him. Carla, his estranged aunt, who had a secret meeting with him earlier in the week. And Miriam, the woman who found the body—could she be hiding something too? As their backstories unfold, secrets come to light, weaving a web of betrayal and hidden trauma. While the novel does a great job of fleshing out its characters, I found myself more interested in their personal stories than in the central mystery of who killed Daniel. The complex backstories sometimes overshadowed the murder plot, making it difficult to stay fully engaged. If you enjoy multi-perspective narratives and deeply flawed characters, you may still appreciate this slow-burning mystery. Book reviewed: A Slow Fire Burning By Paula Hawkins 32,946 ratings When a young man is found gruesomely murdered in a London houseboat, it triggers questions about three women who knew him.   Price: $28 $6. 80 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/i-kissed-shara-wheeler/ A fun and chaotic high school mystery, I Kissed Shara Wheeler delivers an over-the-top rom-com with plenty of heart. For four years, Chloe and prom queen Shara have been academic rivals, competing fiercely for the title of valedictorian. But just a month before graduation, Shara kisses Chloe, and then vanishes. Determined to find out what happened, Chloe embarks on a scavenger hunt of clues, only to discover that Shara also kissed her boyfriend, Smith, and their neighbor, Rory. Together, they unravel the mystery of Shara’s disappearance while also confronting their own self-discoveries. While the story is fun and filled with humor, I personally struggled to connect with Chloe and Shara as main characters. I found myself more invested in the side characters, like Rory and Smith, and wished their stories had been explored further. However, the book has strong Looking for Alaska vibes and is an important addition to queer YA fiction. If you love high-energy, clue-driven romance with a coming-of-age twist, this one’s for you. Book reviewed: I Kissed Shara Wheeler By Casey McQuiston --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-06-26 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/carrie-soto-is-back/ Only Taylor Jenkins Reid could make me care about tennis. Carrie Soto Is Back is an electrifying sports drama about ambition, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Carrie Soto is the greatest tennis player the world has ever seen, or at least, she used to be. Now retired, she watches from the sidelines as her record is threatened by a rising star. Unwilling to let go of her legacy, Carrie decides to make an unprecedented comeback. With her father, her first coach, by her side, she fights to reclaim her title, but the game has changed, and so has she. As always, Reid excels at creating deeply human characters. Carrie is flawed, fierce, and impossible to ignore, making her journey both inspiring and heartbreaking. Whether or not you’re a tennis fan, this novel is a compelling look at what it means to sacrifice everything for success. With its immersive writing and powerful character development, this book is another win for Reid. A must-read! Book reviewed: Carrie Soto Is Back By Taylor Jenkins Reid 43,376 ratings Carrie Soto is fierce, and her determination to win at any cost has not made her popular. But by the time she retires from tennis, she is the best... Price: $28 $13. 87 Buy Now --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/im-the-girl/ A dark and unsettling thriller, I’m the Girl is a bold exploration of power, privilege, and survival in a world that preys on the vulnerable. Sixteen-year-old Georgia Avis dreams of working at Aspera, an exclusive resort for the wealthy elite. When the resort’s owner tells her she’s beautiful, she believes it’s her ticket out of poverty. But her world is shattered when she discovers the body of 13-year-old Ashley James near the resort’s grounds. Soon, Georgia is drawn into a dangerous world where beauty is currency and nothing is what it seems. As she teams up with Ashley’s sister, Nora, to uncover the truth, Georgia finds herself entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and manipulation. But as she learns to navigate the dangerous game being played around her, she starts to question her own choices. Courtney Summers masterfully blends suspense with social commentary, creating a thriller that is as thought-provoking as it is gripping. The themes are heavy, and this is definitely not a light YA read, it leans more toward new adult fiction. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, morally complex mystery, this one delivers. Book reviewed: I'm the Girl By Courtney Summers --- - Published: 2023-11-30 - Modified: 2025-07-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/review/someone-is-always-watching/ Do you want to do something bad? Blythe, Gabrielle, Tucker, and Tanya have always shared a tight bond, until an incident drove a wedge between Blythe and Tucker, leading their parents to insist they stay apart. Tucker, the supposed "bad boy," was always the one to watch out for. But when sweet, quiet Gabrielle is discovered covered in blood in front of their deceased principal, with no memory of what happened, everything changes. Why is Gabrielle obsessed with surveillance cameras? Why does Blythe’s younger sister suffer from terrifying nightmares about fire? And who is Veritas, the mysterious figure sending Blythe emails accusing one of her friends of murder? As Blythe starts piecing the puzzle together, paranoia sets in, no one can be trusted. Kelley Armstrong delivers a thrilling young adult mystery packed with suspense, unexpected twists, and an eerie atmosphere. If you love gripping psychological thrillers with dark secrets and shocking revelations, this book is a must-read. Perfect for readers aged 13–16 and beyond! Book reviewed: Someone Is Always Watching By Kelley Armstrong --- --- ## Books - Published: 2025-10-10 - Modified: 2025-10-10 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-last-nuclear-war-by-hazem-abdelmowla/ - Genres: Epic, Fantasy, Science Fiction & Fantasy - Book Authors: Hazem Abdelmowla In a fractured world reborn from viral ruins, energy is scarce and power is currency. Mousa, a gifted child adrift in a society ruled by influence and decay, questions everything — justice, truth, and the invisible hands shaping his fate. Each answer he seeks demands a choice, and one day, those choices may ignite the final nuclear dawn. You wonder why war? But what if you are the war! What will you choose? What will you do for the sake of this world? In the future, after decades of surviving devastating viral pandemics, the world has become very different from what we know. Energy sources no longer exist like before. The world has become like a compass where its parts are looking for nuclear influence. A smart child named Mousa was born. He had difficulty understanding the world around him. Why is he treated differently in school? Why doesn't he feel social justice? What happened to corrupt the world like this? What is happening between the parties of the world? What is the role of influence and money? The questions were getting more complex at every point in his life. But he didn't know that the path of answers was destined to ask him for choices that could determine the fate of the last future nuclear war. --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-housemaids-secret-by-freida-mcfadden/ - Genres: Fiction, Literature & Fiction, Psychological - Book Series: The Housemaid (3 book series) - Book Authors: Freida McFadden Book 2 of 3: The Housemaid: An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. THE SUNDAY TIMES AND NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERWINNER OF THE GOODREADS AWARD FOR BEST CRIME AND THRILLER 2023 SEQUEL OF THE HOUSEMAID, SOON TO BE A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE As he continues showing me their incredible penthouse apartment, I have a terrible feeling about the woman behind closed doors. But I can't risk losing this job – not if I want to keep my darkest secret safe ... It's hard to find an employer who doesn't ask too many questions about my past. So I thank my lucky stars that the Garricks miraculously give me a job, cleaning their stunning penthouse with views across the city and preparing fancy meals in their shiny kitchen. I can work here for a while, stay quiet until I get what I want. It's almost perfect. But I still haven't met Mrs Garrick, or seen inside the guest bedroom. I'm sure I hear her crying. I notice spots of blood around the neck of her white nightgowns when I'm doing laundry. And one day I can't help but knock on the door. When it gently swings open, what I see inside changes everything... . That's when I make a promise. After all, I've done this before. I can protect Mrs. Garrick while keeping my own secrets locked up safe. Douglas Garrick has done wrong. He is going to pay. It's simply a question of how far I'm willing to go... . An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late... --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-housemaid-is-watching-by-freida-mcfadden/ - Genres: Fiction, Literature & Fiction, Psychological - Book Series: The Housemaid (3 book series) - Book Authors: Freida McFadden Book 3 of 3: The Housemaid: A twisting, pulse-pounding thriller from Freida McFadden, the New York Times bestselling author of The Housemaid and The Coworker. A twisting, pulse-pounding thriller from Freida McFadden, the New York Times bestselling author of The Housemaid and The Coworker "You must be our new neighbors! " Mrs. Lowell gushes and waves across the picket fence. I clutch my daughter's hand and smile back: but the second Mrs. Lowell sees my husband a strange expression crosses her face. In that moment I make a promise. We finally have a family home. My past is far, far behind us. And I'll do anything to keep it that way... I used to clean other people's houses―now, I can't believe this home is actually mine. The charming kitchen, the quiet cul-de-sac, the huge yard where my kids can play. My husband and I saved for years to give our children the life they deserve. Even though I'm wary of our new neighbor Mrs. Lowell, when she invites us over for dinner it's our chance to make friends. Her maid opens the door wearing a white apron, her hair in a tight bun. I know exactly what it's like to be in her shoes. But her cold stare gives me chills... The Lowells' maid isn't the only strange thing on our street. I'm sure I see a shadowy figure watching us. My husband leaves the house late at night. And when I meet a woman who lives across the way, her words chill me to the bone: Be careful of your neighbors. Did I make a terrible mistake moving my family here? I thought I'd... --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/iron-flame-by-rebecca-yarros/ - Genres: Epic, Fantasy, Science Fiction & Fantasy - Book Series: The Empyrean (3 book series) - Book Authors: Rebecca Yarros Book 2 of 3: The Empyrean - Iron Flame - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros Discover the instant #1 New York Times bestseller! TV series now in development at MGM Amazon Studios with Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society. Accolades for Fourth Wing Amazon Best Books of the Year, #4 • Apple Best Books of the Year 2023 • Barnes & Noble Best Fantasy Book of 2023 (Fourth Wing and Iron Flame) • NPR “Books We Love” 2023 • Audible Best Books of 2023 • Hudson Book of the Year • Google Play Best Books of 2023 • Indigo Best Books of 2023 • Waterstones Book of the Year finalist • Goodreads Choice Award, semi-finalist • Newsweek Staffers’ Favorite Books of 2023 • Paste Magazine's Best Books of 2023 “The first year is when some of us lose our lives. The second year is when the rest of us lose our humanity. ” —Xaden Riorson Everyone expected Violet Sorrengail to die during her first year at Basgiath War College—Violet included. But Threshing was only the first impossible test meant to weed out the weak-willed, the unworthy, and the unlucky. Now the real training begins, and Violet’s already wondering how she’ll get through. It’s not just that it’s grueling and maliciously brutal, or even that it’s designed to stretch the riders’ capacity for pain beyond endurance. It’s the new vice commandant, who’s made it his personal mission to teach Violet exactly how powerless she is–unless she betrays the man she loves. Although Violet’s body might be weaker and frailer than everyone else’s, she still has her wits—and... --- - Published: 2025-10-03 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/onyx-storm-by-rebecca-yarros/ - Genres: Epic, Fantasy, Science Fiction & Fantasy - Book Series: The Empyrean (3 book series) - Book Authors: Rebecca Yarros Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Onyx Storm - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros Discover the instant #1 New York Times bestseller! TV series now in development at MGM Amazon Studios with Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society. Accolades for Fourth Wing Amazon Best Books of the Year, #4 • Apple Best Books of the Year 2023 • Barnes & Noble Best Fantasy Book of 2023 • NPR "Books We Love" 2023 • Audible Best Books of 2023 • Hudson Book of the Year • Google Play Best Books of 2023 • Indigo Best Books of 2023 • Waterstones Book of the Year finalist • Goodreads Choice Award Winner • Newsweek Staffers’ Favorite Books of 2023 • Paste Magazine’s Best Books of 2023 • TikTok Book Awards UK and Ireland Book of the Year (International) 2024 After nearly eighteen months at Basgiath War College, Violet Sorrengail knows there’s no more time for lessons. No more time for uncertainty. Because the battle has truly begun, and with enemies closing in from outside their walls and within their ranks, it’s impossible to know who to trust. Now Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves—her dragons, her family, her home, and him. Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything. They need an army. They need power. They need magic. And they need the one thing only Violet can find—the... --- - Published: 2025-09-10 - Modified: 2025-09-14 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/eastern-shadows-by-peter-nordgren/ - Genres: Action & Adventure, Crime, Fiction, Literature & Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Peter Nordgren Eastern Shadows is a gripping, atmospheric mystery that plunges readers deep into Thailand’s underworld, where a vanished woman, a haunted journalist, and a powerful tycoon’s secrets collide in a razor-sharp exploration of identity, corruption, and the ghostly weight of the past. A young woman vanishes while exploring her roots in Thailand. She left on her own. She posts on social media. "I'm safe," she claims. But her mother doesn't buy it. Neither do her friends. What really happened to her? And where is she now? Enter Shane Morris, a struggling journalist who once called Thailand home. He speaks the language. He knows the culture. But he's still just an outsider, sent to unravel an intricate web of rumors and lies. Navigating a land of corrupt officials, seedy motels, and ancient temples, Shane is pulled into the heart of Thailand's shadowy underbelly. With each step toward the truth, he draws the attention of Kittisak Wanchai, a real-estate tycoon with criminal ties and a secret: he's the missing woman's father. From the neon-soaked streets of Bangkok to the sacred shrines of the north, Shane is forced to confront the darkest parts of himself, and his past, to put the pieces together. Surrounded on all sides by corruption and deceit, Shane's world will be stripped bare and he'll be left with a devastating choice: loyalty to the living, or devotion to the dead. Availability For sale. Ebook available for pre-order on Amazon. Physical copies and other platforms will be available upon release date. --- - Published: 2025-08-01 - Modified: 2025-08-01 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/good-girl-a-novel/ - Genres: Coming-of-age, Fiction, Literature & Fiction - Book Authors: Aria Aber A story of love and family, raves and Kafka, staying up all night and surviving the mistakes of youth, Good Girl is the virtuosic debut novel by a celebrated young poet and, now, a major new voice in fiction. “An exhilarating debut novel” (R. O. Kwon, The New York Times Book Review) about the daughter of Afghan refugees and her year of self-discovery—a portrait of the artist as a young woman set in a Berlin that can’t escape its history A girl can get in almost anywhere, even if she can’t get out. “A no-bullsh*t, must-read debut. ”—Kaveh Akbar “Kaleidoscopic, full of style and soul. ”—Raven Leilani “Aber writes with ... masterful precision. ”—Leila Lalami, The Atlantic "Once in a blue moon a debut novel comes along, announcing a voice quite unlike any other, with a layered story and sentences that crackle and pop, begging to be read aloud. Aria Aber’s splendid Good Girl introduces just such a voice ... Aber, an award-winning poet, strikes gold here, much like Kaveh Akbar did in last year’s acclaimed Martyr! "—Los Angeles Times SHORTLISTED FOR THE WOMEN’S PRIZE FOR FICTION • LONGLISTED FOR THE CENTER FOR FICTION FIRST NOVEL PRIZE In Berlin’s artistic underground, where techno and drugs fill warehouses still pockmarked from the wars of the twentieth century, nineteen-year-old Nila at last finds her tribe. Born in Germany to Afghan parents, raised in public housing graffitied with swastikas, drawn to philosophy, photography, and sex, Nila has spent her adolescence disappointing her family while searching for her voice as a young woman and artist. Then in the haze of Berlin’s legendary nightlife, Nila meets Marlowe, an American writer whose fading literary celebrity opens her eyes to a life of personal and artistic... --- - Published: 2025-07-17 - Modified: 2025-07-25 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/in-the-darkness-of-shards-poems-from-a-broken-place/ - Genres: Poetry - Book Authors: Catherine Anne Castillo In the Darkness of Shards is a raw, unflinching collection of poetry that explores trauma, love, and the journey of self-reclamation. In the Darkness of Shards is a raw, unflinching collection of poetry that explores trauma, love, and the journey of self-reclamation. With piercing honesty, Catherine Castillo reflects on a relationship where love and pain intertwined, exposing the toxic cycles and emotional chaos that shaped it. Through vivid, evocative verses, she invites readers to examine their own relationships, confront their own hidden wounds and begin their own healing journey. More than just poetry, this book offers a lifeline for anyone navigating toxic relationships, loss, and transformation. Each verse provides a mirror to the heart and a guide to reclaiming strength through vulnerability. In the Darkness of Shards is a testament to resilience, showing that even in the darkest moments, self-understanding and empowerment are within reach. --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/legends-lattes/ - Genres: Action & Adventure, Fantasy, Literature & Fiction - Book Authors: Travis Baldree After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time. DELUXE EDITION―for the first time in hardcover, this luxe edition of the New York Times bestselling Legends & Lattes features new chapter art, beautiful new endpapers, and special stenciled edges! An Instant New York Times Bestseller A Barnes & Noble Best Book of 2022 A Library Reads Pick An Indie Next Pick A Goodreads Best Fantasy Choice Award Nominee The much-beloved BookTok sensation, Travis Baldree's novel of high fantasy and low stakes. After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time. The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success ― not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is. If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won't be able to go it alone. But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed. “Take a break from epic battles and saving the world. Legends & Lattes is a low-stakes fantasy that delivers exactly what's advertised: a wholesome, cozy novel that feels like a warm hug. This is my new comfort read. ”―Genevieve Gornichec, author of The Witch's Heart --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/emily-wildes-encyclopaedia-of-faeries/ - Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Paranormal & Urban, Science Fiction & Fantasy - Book Authors: Heather Fawcett Emily Wilde is good at many things: she is the foremost expert on the study of faeries; she is a genius scholar and a meticulous researcher who is writing the world''s first encylopaedia of faerie lore... THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER ''A darkly gorgeous fantasy that sparkles with snow and magic, this book wholly enchanted me'' Sangu Mandanna, author of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches Enter the world of the hidden folk - and discover the most whimsical, enchanting and heart-warming tale you''ll read this year, featuring the intrepid Emily Wilde... Emily Wilde is good at many things: she is the foremost expert on the study of faeries; she is a genius scholar and a meticulous researcher who is writing the world''s first encylopaedia of faerie lore. But Emily Wilde is not good at people. So when she arrives in the hardscrabble village of Hrafnsvik, Emily has no intention of befriending the gruff townsfolk. Nor does she care to spend time with another new arrival: her dashing and insufferably handsome academic rival Wendell Bambleby But as Emily gets closer to uncovering the secrets of the Hidden Ones - the most elusive of all faeries - she also finds herself on the trail of another mystery: who is Wendell Bambleby, and what does he really want? To find the answer, she''ll have to unlock the greatest mystery of all - her own heart. ''Forget dark academia: give me instead this kind of winter-sunshined, sharp-tongued and footnoted academia, full of field trips and grumpy romance'' Freya Marske, author of A Marvellous Light ''A thoroughly charming academic fairy tale, complete with footnotes and a low-key grumpy romance'' Guardian ''Enchanting in every sense of the word... This book is... --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/under-the-whispering-door/ - Genres: Fiction, Gay, LGBTQ+ - Book Authors: T.J. Klune Witty, haunting, and kind, Under the Whispering Door is a gift for troubled times. TJ Klune brings us a warm hug of a story about a man who spent his life at the office - and his afterlife building a home. Witty, haunting, and kind, Under the Whispering Door is a gift for troubled times. TJ Klune brings us a warm hug of a story about a man who spent his life at the office - and his afterlife building a home. From the author of joyous New York Times bestseller The House in the Cerulean Sea. Welcome to Charon’s Crossing. The tea is hot, the scones are fresh and the dead are just passing through. When a reaper comes to collect Wallace from his own sparsely-attended funeral, Wallace is outraged. But he begins to suspect she’s right, and he is in fact dead. Then when Hugo, owner of a most peculiar tea shop, promises to help him cross over, Wallace reluctantly accepts the truth. Yet even in death, he refuses to abandon his life – even though Wallace spent all of it working, correcting colleagues and hectoring employees. He’d had no time for frivolities like fun and friends. But as Wallace drinks tea with Hugo and talks to his customers, he wonders if he was missing something. The feeling grows as he shares jokes with the resident ghost, manifests embarrassing footwear and notices the stars. So when he’s given one week to pass through the door to the other side, Wallace sets about living a lifetime in just seven days. Fans of A Man Called Ove and The Good Place will fall for this queer love story by TJ Klune. Praise for TJ Klune's The House in the Cerulean Sea:... --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-12 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-hating-game/ - Genres: Literature & Fiction, Women Writers & Fiction, Women's Literary Fiction - Book Authors: Emily Henry Lucy Hutton has always been certain that the nice girl can get the corner office. She’s charming and accommodating and prides herself on being loved by everyone at Bexley & Gamin. Everyone except for coldly efficient, impeccably attired, physically intimidating Joshua Templeman. And the feeling is mutual. Debut author Sally Thorne bursts on the scene with a hilarious and sexy workplace comedy all about that thin, fine line between hate and love. Nemesis (n. ) 1) An opponent or rival whom a person cannot best or overcome. 2) A person’s undoing 3) Joshua Templeman Lucy Hutton has always been certain that the nice girl can get the corner office. She’s charming and accommodating and prides herself on being loved by everyone at Bexley & Gamin. Everyone except for coldly efficient, impeccably attired, physically intimidating Joshua Templeman. And the feeling is mutual. Trapped in a shared office together forty (ok, fifty or sixty) hours a week, they’ve become entrenched in an addictive, ridiculous never-ending game of one-upmanship. There’s the Staring Game. The Mirror Game. The HR Game. Lucy can’t let Joshua beat her at anything—especially when a huge new promotion goes up for the taking. If Lucy wins this game, she’ll be Joshua’s boss. If she loses, she’ll resign. So why is she suddenly having steamy dreams about Joshua, and dressing for work like she’s got a hot date? After a perfectly innocent elevator ride ends with an earth shattering kiss, Lucy starts to wonder whether she’s got Joshua Templeman all wrong. Maybe Lucy Hutton doesn’t hate Joshua Templeman. And maybe, he doesn’t hate her either. Or maybe this is just another game. --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/eleanor-oliphant-is-completely-fine/ - Book Authors: Gail Honeyman Meet Eleanor Oliphant: She struggles with appropriate social skills and tends to say exactly what she’s thinking. Nothing is missing in her carefully timetabled life of avoiding social interactions, where weekends are punctuated by frozen pizza, vodka, and phone chats with Mummy. #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER A Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick “Beautifully written and incredibly funny, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is about the importance of friendship and human connection. I fell in love with Eleanor, an eccentric and regimented loner whose life beautifully unfolds after a chance encounter with a stranger; I think you will fall in love, too! ” —Reese Witherspoon No one’s ever told Eleanor that life should be better than fine. Meet Eleanor Oliphant: She struggles with appropriate social skills and tends to say exactly what she’s thinking. Nothing is missing in her carefully timetabled life of avoiding social interactions, where weekends are punctuated by frozen pizza, vodka, and phone chats with Mummy. But everything changes when Eleanor meets Raymond, the bumbling and deeply unhygienic IT guy from her office. When she and Raymond together save Sammy, an elderly gentleman who has fallen on the sidewalk, the three become the kinds of friends who rescue one another from the lives of isolation they have each been living. And it is Raymond’s big heart that will ultimately help Eleanor find the way to repair her own profoundly damaged one. Soon to be a major motion picture produced by Reese Witherspoon, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is the smart, warm, and uplifting story of an out-of-the-ordinary heroine whose deadpan weirdness and unconscious wit make for an irresistible journey as she realizes... The only way to survive is to open your heart. --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-book-woman-of-troublesome-creek/ - Book Authors: Kim Michele Richardson The bestselling historical fiction novel from Kim Michele Richardson, this is a novel following Cussy Mary, a packhorse librarian and her quest to bring books to the Appalachian community she loves, perfect for readers of William Kent Kreuger and Lisa Wingate. RECOMMENDED BY DOLLY PARTON IN PEOPLE MAGAZINE! A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER A USA TODAY BESTSELLER A LOS ANGELES TIMES BESTSELLER A PBS BOOK PICK The bestselling historical fiction novel from Kim Michele Richardson, this is a novel following Cussy Mary, a packhorse librarian and her quest to bring books to the Appalachian community she loves, perfect for readers of William Kent Kreuger and Lisa Wingate. The perfect addition to your next book club! The hardscrabble folks of Troublesome Creek have to scrap for everything—everything except books, that is. Thanks to Roosevelt's Kentucky Pack Horse Library Project, Troublesome's got its very own traveling librarian, Cussy Mary Carter. Cussy's not only a book woman, however, she's also the last of her kind, her skin a shade of blue unlike most anyone else. Not everyone is keen on Cussy's family or the Library Project, and a Blue is often blamed for any whiff of trouble. If Cussy wants to bring the joy of books to the hill folks, she's going to have to confront prejudice as old as the Appalachias and suspicion as deep as the holler. Inspired by the true blue-skinned people of Kentucky and the brave and dedicated Kentucky Pack Horse library service of the 1930s, The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek is a story of raw courage, fierce strength, and one woman's belief that books can carry us anywhere—even back home. --- - Published: 2025-07-12 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/ugly-love/ - Book Authors: Colleen Hoover When Tate Collins meets airline pilot Miles Archer, she doesn't think it's love at first sight. They wouldn’t even go so far as to consider themselves friends. From Colleen Hoover, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of It Ends With Us, aheart-wrenching love story that proves attraction at first sight can be messy. When Tate Collins meets airline pilot Miles Archer, she doesn't think it's love at first sight. They wouldn’t even go so far as to consider themselves friends. The only thing Tate and Miles have in common is an undeniable mutual attraction. Once their desires are out in the open, they realize they have the perfect set-up. He doesn’t want love, she doesn’t have time for love, so that just leaves the sex. Their arrangement could be surprisingly seamless, as long as Tate can stick to the only two rules Miles has for her. Never ask about the past. Don’t expect a future. They think they can handle it, but realize almost immediately they can’t handle it at all. Hearts get infiltrated. Promises get broken. Rules get shattered. Love gets ugly. --- - Published: 2025-06-12 - Modified: 2025-09-28 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/just-love-her/ - Genres: Love Poems, Mysticism, Non-fiction, Religion & Spirituality - Book Authors: Raz Mihal "Just Love Her" by Raz Mihal is a spiritual exploration of divine love and soul connection. Through heartfelt meditations, Mihal shares his journey of experiencing an eternal bond with a beloved soul known as "Her." "Just Love Her" by Raz Mihal is a spiritual exploration of divine love and soul connection. Through heartfelt meditations, Mihal shares his journey of experiencing an eternal bond with a beloved soul known as "Her. " Each entry offers a poetic and reflective look at love that transcends time and physical boundaries, highlighting its transformative power. Mihal delves into the intuitive nature of the heart, presenting love as a divine force and a guiding goddess. He encourages readers to embrace the divine feminine within and to see love as a central guiding principle in their lives. Interwoven with philosophical insights on existence and the spiritual dimensions of love, the book provides profound reflections on spiritual connection, the practice of divine love, and the mystical experiences that shape our lives. Key themes include daily meditations on divine love, the challenges and complexities of love, and love's power to bring about spiritual growth. Perfect for readers interested in spiritual growth, self-discovery, and a deeper understanding of love, "Just Love Her" is a testament to love's transformative power. Mihal's poetic prose and deep reflections make this book a valuable guide for embracing the divine love within your heart. --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-06-21 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-substitute/ - Genres: Crime Fiction, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Nicole Lundrigan 54 --- - Published: 2025-03-22 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/bitten/ - Genres: Fiction, Horror, Mystery, Romance - Book Authors: Kelley Armstrong On the eve of her marriage, Elena Michaels learns that her fiance has been concealing his secret life as a werewolf and, as a bonus, he has made her into one also. FROM THE AUTHOR OF HEMLOCK ISLAND--THE FIRST NOVEL IN THE #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING OTHERWORLD SERIES “Frisky... Tells a rather sweet love story, and suggests that being a wolf may be more comfortable for a strong, smart woman than being human. ”—The New York Times Book Review Elena Michaels is the world’s only female werewolf. And she’s tired of it. Tired of a life spent hiding and protecting, a life where her most important job is hunting down rogue werewolves. Tired of a world that not only accepts the worst in her–her temper, her violence—but requires it. Worst of all, she realizes she’s growing content with that life, with being that person. So she left the Pack and returned to Toronto where she’s trying to live as a human. When the Pack leader calls asking for her help fighting a sudden uprising, she only agrees because she owes him. Once this is over, she’ll be squared with the Pack and free to live life as a human. Which is what she wants. Really. --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/brave-new-world/ - Genres: Classic, Dystopian Fiction, Fiction, Science Fiction - Book Authors: Aldous Huxley Now more than ever: Aldous Huxley's enduring masterwork must be read and understood by anyone concerned with preserving the human spirit "A masterpiece... . One of the most prophetic dystopian works. " —Wall Street Journal The beautifully designed Harper Perennial Deluxe Edition of Brave New World also includes Huxley's essay, "Brave New World Revisited" and features a foreword by Christopher Hitchens Aldous Huxley's profoundly important classic of world literature, Brave New World is a searching vision of an unequal, technologically-advanced future where humans are genetically bred, socially indoctrinated, and pharmaceutically anesthetized to passively uphold an authoritarian ruling order—all at the cost of our freedom, full humanity, and perhaps also our souls. “A genius who spent his life decrying the onward march of the Machine” (The New Yorker), Huxley was a man of incomparable talents: equally an artist, a spiritual seeker, and one of history’s keenest observers of human nature and civilization. Brave New World, his masterpiece, has enthralled and terrified millions of readers, and retains its urgent relevance to this day as both a warning to be heeded as we head into tomorrow and as a thought-provoking, satisfying work of literature. Written in the shadow of the rise of fascism during the 1930s, Brave New World likewise speaks to a 21st-century world dominated by mass-entertainment, technology, medicine and pharmaceuticals, the arts of persuasion, and the hidden influence of elites. --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/cold-as-hell/ - Genres: Contemporary, Crime, Fiction, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Kelley Armstrong New York Times bestselling author Kelley Armstrong returns to Haven’s Rock in Cold as Hell as Casey Duncan hunts down a dangerous killer during a deadly blizzard. New York Times bestselling author Kelley Armstrong returns to Haven’s Rock in Cold as Hell as Casey Duncan hunts down a dangerous killer during a deadly blizzard. Haven’s Rock is a sanctuary town hidden deep in the Yukon for those who need to disappear from the regular world. Detective Casey Duncan and her husband, Sheriff Eric Dalton, are starting a family now that they’ve settled into their life here. As Casey nears the end of her pregnancy, she lets nothing, including her worried husband, stop her from investigating what happens in the forbidden forest outside the town of Haven’s Rock. When one of the town's residents is drugged and wanders too close to the edge of town, she’s dragged into the woods kicking and screaming. She’s saved in the nick of time, but the women of the town are alarmed. Casey and Eric investigate the assault just as a snowstorm hits Haven’s Rock, covering the forest. It’s there they find a frozen body, naked in the snow. With mixed accounts of the woman's last movements, the two begin to question who they can trust―and who they can't―in their seemingly safe haven. --- - Published: 2025-03-20 - Modified: 2025-10-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/never-lie/ - Genres: Contemporary, Crime, Domestic Fiction, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Freida McFadden Newlyweds Tricia and Ethan find their dream home, a remote manor once owned by missing psychiatrist Dr. Adrienne Hale. Trapped there by a blizzard, Tricia discovers Hale’s hidden room filled with patient tapes. As she listens through the night, each cassette exposes darker secrets… until the final one unveils the horrifying truth. Newlyweds Tricia and Ethan are searching for the house of their dreams. But when they visit the remote manor that once belonged to Dr. Adrienne Hale, a renowned psychiatrist who vanished without a trace four years earlier, a violent winter storm traps them at the estate... with no chance of escape until the blizzard comes to an end. In search of a book to keep her entertained until the snow abates, Tricia happens upon a secret room. One that contains audio transcripts from every single patient Dr. Hale has ever interviewed. As Tricia listens to the cassette tapes, she learns about the terrifying chain of events leading up to Dr. Hale’s mysterious disappearance. Tricia plays the tapes one by one, late into the night. With each one, another shocking piece of the puzzle falls into place, and Dr. Adrienne Hale’s web of lies slowly unravels. And then Tricia reaches the final cassette. The one that reveals the entire horrifying truth. --- - Published: 2025-03-18 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/american-psycho/ - Genres: Contemporary, Crime Fiction, Dark Comedy, Fiction, Horror - Book Authors: Bret Easton Ellis Patrick Bateman is 26 and works on Wall Street. Handsome, sophisticated, charming and intelligent, he is also a psychopath. Bret Easton Ellis’s American Psycho is one of the most controversial and talked-about novels of all time. A multi-million-copy bestseller hailed as a modern classic, it is a violent and outrageous black comedy about the darkest side of human nature. With an introduction by Irvine Welsh, author of Trainspotting. I like to dissect girls. Did you know I’m utterly insane? Patrick Bateman has it all: good looks, youth, charm, a job on Wall Street, and reservations at every new restaurant in town. He is also a psychopath. A man addicted to his superficial, perfect life, he pulls us into a dark underworld where the American Dream becomes a nightmare ... --- - Published: 2024-12-30 - Modified: 2025-09-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/somewhere-beyond-the-sea/ - Genres: Fiction, LGBTQ+, Literature & Fiction, Paranormal, Romance - Book Series: Cerulean Chronicles (2 book series) - Book Authors: T.J. Klune Somewhere Beyond the Sea is the hugely anticipated sequel to TJ Klune's The House in the Cerulean Sea, one of the best-loved and best-selling fantasy novels of the past decade. A magical house. A secret past. A summons that could change everything. The number one New York Times bestselling sequel to TJ Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea. **ALL first-run paperbacks include a beautiful sprayed edge of the Phoenix's burning fire ... Available while stocks last** – Winner of the 2024 Goodreads Choice Award for Fantasy – Arthur Parnassus has built a good life on the ashes of a bad one. He’s headmaster at an orphanage for magical children on a peculiar island, assisted by the love of his life, Linus Baker. And together, they’ll do anything to protect their extraordinary and powerful charges. However, when Arthur is forced to make a public statement about his dark past, he finds himself fighting for those under his care. It’s also a fight for the better future that all magical people deserve. Then, when a new magical child joins their island home, Arthur knows they’ve reached breaking point. The child finds power in calling himself a monster, a name Arthur has tried so hard to banish to protect his children. Challenged from within and without, their volatile family might grow stronger. Or everything Arthur loves could fall apart. Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a story of resistance, lovingly told, about the daunting experience of fighting for the life you want to live and doing the work to keep it. ‘An enchanting sequel about found family’ – The New York Times Praise for The House in the Cerulean Sea: ‘I loved it.... --- - Published: 2024-01-30 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/fourth-wing/ - Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Romance - Book Series: The Empyrean (3 book series) - Book Authors: Rebecca Yarros Book 1 of 3: The Empyrean - Fourth Wing - Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros A #1 New York Times bestseller • TV series in development at MGM Amazon Studios with Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society • Amazon Best Books of the Year, #4 • Apple Best Books of the Year 2023 • Barnes & Noble Best Fantasy Book of 2023 • NPR “Books We Love” 2023 • Audible Best Books of 2023 • Hudson Book of the Year • Google Play Best Books of 2023 • Indigo Best Books of 2023 • Waterstones Book of the Year finalist • Goodreads Choice Award Winner • Newsweek Staffers’ Favorite Books of 2023 • Paste Magazine's Best Books of 2023 "Suspenseful, sexy, and with incredibly entertaining storytelling, the first in Yarros' Empyrean series will delight fans of romantic, adventure-filled fantasy. " —Booklist, starred review "Fourth Wing will have your heart pounding from beginning to end... A fantasy like you've never read before. " ―#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from #1 New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among books and history. Now, the commanding general—also known as her tough-as-talons mother—has ordered Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders. But when you’re smaller than everyone else and your body is brittle, death is only a heartbeat away... because dragons don’t bond to “fragile” humans. They incinerate them. With... --- - Published: 2024-01-21 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/and-then-you-were-gone/ - Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: R.J. Jacobs After years of learning how to manage her bipolar disorder, Emily Firestone finally has it under control... For fans of B. A. Paris and Mary Kubica comes a propulsive, twisting psychological thriller that asks, How can you save someone else if you cant save yourself? After years of learning how to manage her bipolar disorder, Emily Firestone finally has it under control. Even better, her life is coming together: shes got a great job, her own place, and a boyfriend, Paolo, who adores her. So when Paolo suggests a weekend sailing trip, Emily agreeswine, water, and the man she loves? What could be better? But when Emily wakes the morning after they set sail, the boat is still adrift…and Paolo is gone. A strong swimmer, theres no way Paolo drowned, but Emily is at a loss for any other explanation. Where else could he have gone? And why? As the hours and days pass by, each moment marking Paolos disappearance, Emilys hard-won stability begins to slip. But when Emily uncovers evidence suggesting Paolo was murdered, the investigation throws her mania into overdrive, even as she becomes a person of interest in her own personal tragedy. To clear her name, Emily must find the truthbut can she hold onto her own sanity in the process? --- - Published: 2024-01-18 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/a-list-of-cages/ - Genres: Contemporary, Fiction, Mental Health, Young-adult - Book Authors: Robin Roe When Adam Blake lands the best elective ever in his senior year, serving as an aide to the school psychologist, he thinks he's got it made. #1 BESTSELLER Named one of the Best Books of the Year by Buzzfeed, EpicReads, Goodreads & more "Remarkably gripping and moving. "—Emma Donoghue, author of ROOM "Beautiful and brilliant. "—Shelf Awareness (starred review) When Adam Blake lands the best elective ever in his senior year, serving as an aide to the school psychologist, he thinks he's got it made. Sure, it means a lot of sitting around, which isn't easy for a guy with ADHD, but he can't complain, since he gets to spend the period texting all his friends. Then the doctor asks him to track down the troubled freshman who keeps dodging her, and Adam discovers that the boy is Julian - the foster brother he hasn't seen in five years. Adam is ecstatic to be reunited. At first, Julian seems like the boy he once knew. He's still kind hearted. He still writes stories and loves picture books meant for little kids. But as they spend more time together, Adam realizes that Julian is keeping secrets, like where he hides during the middle of the day, and what's really going on inside his house. Adam is determined to help him, but his involvement could cost both boys their lives. --- - Published: 2024-01-07 - Modified: 2025-09-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/reminders-of-him/ - Genres: Contemporary, Domestic Fiction, Romance - Book Authors: Colleen Hoover A troubled young mother yearns for a shot at redemption in this heartbreaking yet hopeful story from #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover. A troubled young mother yearns for a shot at redemption in this heartbreaking yet hopeful story from #1 New York Times bestselling author Colleen Hoover. After serving five years in prison for a tragic mistake, Kenna Rowan returns to the town where it all went wrong, hoping to reunite with her four-year-old daughter. But the bridges Kenna burned are proving impossible to rebuild. Everyone in her daughter’s life is determined to shut Kenna out, no matter how hard she works to prove herself. The only person who hasn’t closed the door on her completely is Ledger Ward, a local bar owner and one of the few remaining links to Kenna’s daughter. But if anyone were to discover how Ledger is slowly becoming an important part of Kenna’s life, both would risk losing the trust of everyone important to them. The two form a connection despite the pressure surrounding them, but as their romance grows, so does the risk. Kenna must find a way to absolve the mistakes of her past in order to build a future out of hope and healing. --- - Published: 2023-12-31 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/a-history-of-wild-places/ - Genres: Psychological, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Shea Ernshaw In this “riveting, atmospheric thriller that messes with your mind in the best way” (Laini Taylor, New York Times bestselling author), three residents of a secluded, seemingly peaceful commune investigate the disappearances of two outsiders. In this “riveting, atmospheric thriller that messes with your mind in the best way” (Laini Taylor, New York Times bestselling author), three residents of a secluded, seemingly peaceful commune investigate the disappearances of two outsiders. Travis Wren has an unusual talent for locating missing people. Often hired by families as a last resort, he takes on the case of Maggie St. James—a well-known author of dark, macabre children’s books—and is soon led to a place many believed to be only a legend. Called Pastoral, this reclusive community was founded in the 1970s by like-minded people searching for a simpler way of life. By all accounts, the commune shouldn’t exist anymore and soon after Travis stumbles upon it... he disappears. Just like Maggie St. James. Years later, Theo, a lifelong member of Pastoral, discovers Travis’s abandoned truck beyond the border of the community. No one is allowed in or out, not when there’s a risk of bringing a disease—rot—into Pastoral. Unraveling the mystery of what happened reveals secrets that Theo, his wife, Calla, and her sister, Bee, keep from one another. Secrets that prove their perfect, isolated world isn’t as safe as they believed—and that darkness takes many forms. “As spine-chilling as it is beautifully crafted” (Ruth Emmie Lang, author of Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance), A History of Wild Places is a story about fairy tales, our fear of the dark, and losing yourself within the wilderness of your mind. --- - Published: 2023-12-30 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/beach-read/ - Genres: Contemporary, Fiction, Romance - Book Authors: Emily Henry A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters. FROM THE #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF FUNNY STORY! A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters. As featured in The New York Times Book Review ∙ Entertainment Weekly ∙ Oprah Magazine ∙ Betches ∙ Shondaland ∙ Good Morning America ∙ The New York Post ∙ Good Housekeeping ∙ CNN ∙ and more! Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast. They’re polar opposites. --- - Published: 2023-12-30 - Modified: 2025-09-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-house-in-the-cerulean-sea/ - Genres: Contemporary, Fiction, LGBTQ+, Romance - Book Series: Cerulean Chronicles (2 book series) - Book Authors: T.J. Klune A cosy, enchanting story about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place. ‘I loved it. It is like being wrapped up in a big gay blanket. Simply perfect’ – V. E. Schwab, Sunday Times bestselling author of Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil A cosy, enchanting story about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place. The House in the Cerulean Sea is an uplifting, heart-warming queer fantasy from TJ Klune, a Sunday Times and New York Times bestselling author. Linus Baker leads a quiet life. At forty, he has a tiny house with a devious cat and his beloved records for company. And at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, he’s spent many dull years monitoring their orphanages. Then one day, Linus is summoned by Extremely Upper Management and given a highly classified assignment. He must travel to an orphanage where six dangerous children reside – including the Antichrist. --- - Published: 2023-12-24 - Modified: 2025-10-09 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-night-shift/ - Genres: Thriller - Book Authors: Alex Finlay The Night Shift by Alex Finlay is a fast-paced thriller linking two brutal small-town massacres, fifteen years apart. On New Year’s Eve 1999, four teens are attacked at a Blockbuster; only one survives. Fifteen years later, history repeats itself at an ice cream shop. As the lone survivor, a fugitive’s brother, and an FBI agent chase the truth, buried secrets of love, lies, and vengeance resurface, revealing that the past never truly dies. From Alex Finlay, the author of Every Last Fear, comes The Night Shift, a breakneck new thriller about a pair of small-town murders fifteen years apart, and the one man whose life in inexplicably linked to both... It’s New Year’s Eve, 1999. Y2K is expected to bring tragedy: planes falling from the sky, elevators plunging to earth, world markets collapsing. None of that happens. But at a Blockbuster Video in Linden, New Jersey, four teenage girls working late at the store are attacked. Only one inexplicably survives. Police quickly identify a suspect, the boyfriend of one of the victims, who flees and is never seen again. Fifteen years later, four more teenage girls are attacked at an ice cream store in Linden, and again only one makes it out alive. In the aftermath of the latest crime, three lives intersect: the lone survivor of the Blockbuster massacre who's forced to relive the horrors of her tragedy; the brother of the fugitive accused, who’s convinced the police have it all wrong; and the FBI agent who must delve into the secrets of both nights—stirring up memories of teen love and lies—to uncover the truth about both crimes. --- - Published: 2023-12-16 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/lessons-in-chemistry/ - Genres: Historical Fiction, Humor - Book Authors: Bonnie Garmus #1 GLOBAL BESTSELLER WITH MORE THAN 8 MILLION COPIES SOLD - Meet Elizabeth Zott: "a gifted research chemist, absurdly self-assured and immune to social convention" (The Washington Post) in 1960s California whose career takes a detour when she becomes the unlikely star of a beloved TV cooking show. - STREAM ON APPLE TV+ This novel is "irresistible, satisfying and full of fuel" (The New York Times Book Review) and "witty, sometimes hilarious... the Catch-22 of early feminism" (Stephen King, via Twitter). A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: The New York Times, Washington Post, NPR, Oprah Daily, Entertainment Weekly, Newsweek Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it's the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel-prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with--of all things--her mind. True chemistry results. But like science, life is unpredictable. Which is why a few years later Elizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother, but the reluctant star of America's most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth's unusual approach to cooking ("combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride") proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn't just teaching women to cook. She's daring them to change... --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/a-faint-cold-fear/ - Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Karin Slaughter A suicide on a college campus. A tragic case with a simple resolution. The third thrilling Grant County novel by New York Times bestselling author, Karin Slaughter, featuring Sara Linton of the acclaimed Will Trent Series. “Simply one of the best thriller writers working today. ” — Gillian Flynn, bestselling author of Gone Girl Sara Linton, medical examiner in the small town of Heartsdale, GA, is called out to an apparent suicide on the local college campus. The mutilated body provides little in the way of clues—and the college authorities are eager to avoid a scandal—but for Sara and police chief Jeffrey Tolliver, things don’t add up. Two more suspicious suicides follow, and a young woman is brutally attacked. For Sara, the violence strikes far too close to home. And as Jeffrey pursues the sadistic killer, he discovers that ex-police detective Lena Adams, now a security guard on campus, may be in possession of crucial information. But, bruised and angered by her expulsion from the force, Lena seems to be barely capable of protecting herself, let alone saving the next victim. --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/book-lovers/ - Genres: Fiction, Romance - Book Authors: Emily Henry One summer. Two rivals. A plot twist they didn't see coming... An insightful, delightful, instant #1 New York Times bestseller from the author of Funny Story. “One of my favorite authors. ”—Colleen Hoover One summer. Two rivals. A plot twist they didn't see coming... Nora Stephens' life is books—she’s read them all—and she is not that type of heroine. Not the plucky one, not the laidback dream girl, and especially not the sweetheart. In fact, the only people Nora is a heroine for are her clients, for whom she lands enormous deals as a cutthroat literary agent, and her beloved little sister Libby. Which is why she agrees to go to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina for the month of August when Libby begs her for a sisters’ trip away—with visions of a small town transformation for Nora, who she’s convinced needs to become the heroine in her own story. But instead of picnics in meadows, or run-ins with a handsome country doctor or bulging-forearmed bartender, Nora keeps bumping into Charlie Lastra, a bookish brooding editor from back in the city. It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute. If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s nobody’s hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves. --- - Published: 2023-12-06 - Modified: 2025-06-19 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/kisscut/ - Genres: Mystery, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Karin Slaughter 40 --- - Published: 2023-12-03 - Modified: 2025-10-03 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/the-housemaid/ - Genres: Domestic Fiction, Psychological, Suspense, Thriller - Book Series: The Housemaid (3 book series) - Book Authors: Freida McFadden Book 1 of 3: The Housemaid: #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller and addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist - Freida McFadden’s The Housemaid is perfect for fans of Ruth Ware, Lisa Jewell, and Verity. Over two million copies sold! Soon to be a major motion picture starring Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried—trailer out now! Don't miss the #1 New York Times and USA Today bestseller and addictive psychological thriller with a jaw-dropping twist that’s burning up Instagram and TikTok--Freida McFadden’s The Housemaid is perfect for fans of Ruth Ware, Lisa Jewell, and Verity. Every day I clean the Winchesters’ beautiful house top to bottom. I collect their daughter from school. And I cook a delicious meal for the whole family before heading up to eat alone in my tiny room on the top floor. I try to ignore how Nina makes a mess just to watch me clean it up. How she tells strange lies about her own daughter. And how her husband Andrew seems more broken every day. But as I look into Andrew’s handsome brown eyes, so full of pain, it’s hard not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina’s life. The walk-in closet, the fancy car, the perfect husband. I only try on one of Nina’s pristine white dresses once. Just to see what it’s like. But she soon finds out... and by the time I realize my attic bedroom door only locks from the outside, it’s far too late. But I reassure myself: the Winchesters don’t know who I really am. They don’t know what I’m capable of... --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/camp-zero/ - Genres: Dystopian Fiction, Fiction - Book Authors: Michelle Min Sterling In a near-future northern settlement, the fates of a young woman, a professor, and a mysterious collective of researchers collide in this mesmerizing and transportive debut that “delivers its big ideas with suspense, endlessly surprising twists, and abundant heart”. INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER A Today Show #ReadwithJenna Book Club Pick Libby Book Award Winner for Best Diverse Author In a near-future northern settlement, the fates of a young woman, a professor, and a mysterious collective of researchers collide in this mesmerizing and transportive debut that “delivers its big ideas with suspense, endlessly surprising twists, and abundant heart” (Jessamine Chan, New York Times bestselling author). In remote northern Canada, a team led by a visionary American architect is break­ing ground on a building project called Camp Zero, intended to be the beginning of a new way of life. A clever and determined young woman code-named Rose is offered a chance to join the Blooms, a group hired to entertain the men in camp—but her real mission is to secretly monitor the mercurial architect in charge. In return, she’ll receive a home for her climate-displaced Korean immigrant mother and herself. Rose quickly secures the trust of her target, only to discover that everyone has a hidden agenda, and nothing is as it seems. Through skill­fully braided perspectives, including those of a young professor longing to escape his wealthy family and an all-woman military research unit struggling for survival at a climate station, the fate of Camp Zero’s inhabitants reaches a stunning crescendo. Atmospheric, fiercely original, and utterly gripping, Camp Zero is an electrifying page-turner and a masterful exploration of who and what will survive in a warming world, and how falling in love and building community can be the most... --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/a-likely-story/ - Genres: Coming-of-age, Psychological - Book Authors: Leigh Mcmullan Abramson The only child of a famous American novelist discovers a shocking family secret that upends everything she thought she knew about her parents, her gilded childhood, and her own stalled writing career in this standout debut, perfect for fans of Pineapple Street and The Plot. CBS New York Book Club with Mary Calvi and Belletrist Book Club Pick “Raw, complex, and utterly unforgettable. ” —Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author The only child of a famous American novelist discovers a shocking family secret that upends everything she thought she knew about her parents, her gilded childhood, and her own stalled writing career in this standout debut, perfect for fans of Pineapple Street and The Plot. Growing up in the nineties in New York City as the only child of famous parents was both a blessing and a curse for Isabelle Manning. Her beautiful society hostess mother, Claire, and New York Times bestselling author father, Ward, were the city’s intellectual It couple. Ward’s glamorous obligations often took him away from Isabelle, but Claire made sure her childhood was always filled with love. Now an adult, all Isabelle wants is to be a successful writer like her father but after many false starts and the unexpected death of her mother, she faces her upcoming thirty-fifth birthday alone and on the verge of a breakdown. Her anxiety only skyrockets when she uncovers some shocking truths about her parents and begins wondering if everything she knew about her family was all based on an elaborate lie. This “literary page-turner” (KJ Dell’Antonia, New York Times bestselling author) is punctuated with fragments of a compulsively readable book-within-a-book about a woman determined to steal back the spotlight from a man who has cheated his way to the top. The characters seem... --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/an-unthinkable-thing/ - Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Psychological, Thriller - Book Authors: Nicole Lundrigan A tragedy brings a young boy into the home of a "perfect" family—one whose dark secrets begin closing in, until a horrifying moment changes everything. SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2023 CRIME WRITERS OF CANADA AWARD FOR BEST CRIME NOVEL A tragedy brings a young boy into the home of a "perfect" family—one whose dark secrets begin closing in, until a horrifying moment changes everything. Tommie Ware’s life is turned upside down the summer of 1958, just after his eleventh birthday. When his beloved aunt—the woman who raised him—doesn’t return after her shift as a night nurse and is later found murdered, there is only one place left for Tommie to go: “home” to the mother who handed him over the day he was born. All is not as it seems behind the hedgerow surrounding the lavish Henneberry estate where Tommie’s mother, Esther, works as live-in housekeeper. Her employers have agreed he can stay until she “sorts things out,” but as she's at the family’s beck and call around the clock, Tommie is mostly left on his own to navigate the grounds, the massive house, and the twisted family inside. Soon he is enmeshed in the oppressive attentions of matriarch Muriel, who is often heavily medicated, and of fifteen-year-old Martin, who treats Tommie sometimes like a kid brother, sometimes like a pawn in a confusing game. While Dr. Henneberry mostly ignores Tommie, he also seems eager for him to be gone. Then there’s the elderly neighbour, who may know more about the family's past than anyone else will say. By summer's end, the secrets and games tighten around Tommie and his mother, until a horrific crime is... --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-11 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/a-slow-fire-burning/ - Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller - Book Authors: Paula Hawkins When a young man is found gruesomely murdered in a London houseboat, it triggers questions about three women who knew him. AN INSTANT #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER The scorching new thriller from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Girl on the Train. “A Slow Fire Burning twists and turns like a great thriller should, but it's also deep, intelligent and intensely human. ” – Lee Child “Only a clairvoyant could anticipate the book’s ending” – New York Times With the same propulsion that captivated millions of readers worldwide in The Girl on the Train and Into the Water, Paula Hawkins unfurls a gripping, twisting story of deceit, murder, and revenge. When a young man is found gruesomely murdered in a London houseboat, it triggers questions about three women who knew him. Laura is the troubled one-night-stand last seen in the victim’s home. Carla is his grief-stricken aunt, already mourning the recent death of yet another family member. And Miriam is the nosy neighbor clearly keeping secrets from the police. Three women with separate connections to the victim. Three women who are – for different reasons – simmering with resentment. Who are, whether they know it or not, burning to right the wrongs done to them. When it comes to revenge, even good people might be capable of terrible deeds. How far might any one of them go to find peace? How long can secrets smolder before they explode into flame? --- - Published: 2023-12-02 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/carrie-soto-is-back/ - Genres: Literary Fiction, Saga - Book Authors: Taylor Jenkins Reid Carrie Soto is fierce, and her determination to win at any cost has not made her popular. But by the time she retires from tennis, she is the best player the world has ever seen... #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • “An epic adventure about a female athlete perhaps past her prime, brought back to the tennis court for one last grand slam” (Elle), from the author of Malibu Rising, Daisy Jones & The Six, and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo “A heart-filled novel about an iconic and persevering father and daughter. ”—Time “Gorgeous. The kind of sharp, smart, potent book you have to set aside every few pages just to catch your breath. I’ll take a piece of Carrie Soto forward with me in life and be a little better for it. ”—Emily Henry, author of Book Lovers and Beach Read ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR: Time, NPR, PopSugar, Glamour, Reader’s Digest Carrie Soto is fierce, and her determination to win at any cost has not made her popular. But by the time she retires from tennis, she is the best player the world has ever seen. She has shattered every record and claimed twenty Grand Slam titles. And if you ask Carrie, she is entitled to every one. She sacrificed nearly everything to become the best, with her father, Javier, as her coach. A former champion himself, Javier has trained her since the age of two. But six years after her retirement, Carrie finds herself sitting in the stands of the 1994 US Open, watching her record be taken from her by a brutal, stunning player named Nicki Chan. At thirty-seven years old, Carrie makes the monumental decision to... --- - Published: 2023-11-30 - Modified: 2025-07-06 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/homecoming/ - Genres: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Thriller - Book Authors: Kate Morton From the bestselling author of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, a sweeping novel that begins with a shocking crime, the effects of which echo across continents and generations. New York Times bestseller From the bestselling author of The Clockmaker’s Daughter, a sweeping novel that begins with a shocking crime, the effects of which echo across continents and generations. Adelaide Hills, Christmas Eve, 1959: At the end of a scorching hot day, beside a creek on the grounds of a grand country house, a local man makes a terrible discovery. Police are called, and the small town of Tambilla becomes embroiled in one of the most baffling murder investigations in the history of South Australia. Many years later and thousands of miles away, Jess is a journalist in search of a story. Having lived and worked in London for two decades, she now finds herself unemployed and struggling to make ends meet. A phone call out of nowhere summons her back to Sydney, where her beloved grandmother Nora, who raised Jess when her mother could not, has suffered a fall and is seriously ill in the hospital. At Nora's house, Jess discovers a true crime book chronicling a long-buried police case: the Turner Family Tragedy of 1959. It is only when Jess skims through its pages that she finds a shocking connection between her own family and this notorious event—a mystery that has never been satisfactorily resolved. An epic story that spans generations, Homecoming asks what we would do for those we love, how we protect the lies we tell, and what it means to come home. Above all, it is an intricate and spellbinding novel from one of... --- - Published: 2023-11-30 - Modified: 2025-07-20 - URL: https://simplebookreviews.com/book/bye-baby/ - Genres: Fiction, Psychological, Thriller - Book Authors: Carola Lovering Every friendship has its shadow... NATIONAL BESTSELLER • A March 2024 Indie Next and LibraryReads Pick "Powerful, relatable and crazily addictive, Bye, Baby takes an unflinching look at the battling forces of toxicity and love which define so many female friendships. I couldn't put it down. " ––Rosie Walsh, New York Times bestselling author of Ghosted and The Love of My Life Every friendship has its shadow... On a brisk fall night in a New York apartment, 35-year-old Billie West hears terrified screams. It's her lifelong best friend Cassie Barnwell, one floor above, and she's just realized her infant daughter has gone missing. Billie is shaken as she looks down into her own arms to see the baby, remembering―with a jolt of fear―that she is responsible for the kidnapping that has instantly shattered Cassie’s world. Once fiercely bonded by their secrets, Cassie and Billie have drifted apart in adulthood, no longer the inseparable pair they used to be in their small Hudson Valley hometown. Cassie is married to a wealthy man, has recently become a mother, and is building a following as a lifestyle influencer. She is desperate to leave her past behind―including Billie, who is single and childless, and no longer fits into her world. But Billie knows the worst thing Cassie has ever done, and she will do whatever it takes to restore their friendship... Told in alternating perspectives in Lovering’s signature suspenseful style, Bye, Baby confronts the myriad ways friendships change and evolve over time, the lingering echoes of childhood trauma, and... --- ---