“My Wife is Missing”–Review

When a woman disappears with her two children, one husband will do anything to find them—even confront the secrets of his own past.

Michael Hart and his wife and two children arrive at their New York hotel room, ready to start their vacation. But first Michael goes out to pick up some pizza for his family before they start their adventure. Once he gets back to the hotel room, though, his wife, Natalie, and the kids are nowhere in sight. In fact, with the exception of his belongings, his family’s belongings are gone. With panic in his gut, Michael tries to call and text Natalie, but her phone has been turned off. His text messages are unanswered. Assuming his family is in danger, Michael gets the police involved. But getting the police involved means Michael has to tell them everything. He won’t do it, though. He can’t mention anything about his past that may be linked to his family’s sudden disappearance.

Meanwhile, Natalie knows her reasons for running away are valid. She and the kids are in danger, and she’ll keep running until they all are safe from Michael. Ever since she learned about Michael’s past, however, Natalie’s insomnia has been getting worse, possibly playing tricks on her. She has to keep moving, though, despite her lack of sleep and low energy. While Michael is on the hunt for his family, Natalie fears the consequences if he does find them.

I enjoyed the author’s previous titles, Saving Meghan and The New Husband. Both stories had great suspense. My Wife is Missing was just as good. Even better, actually. Honestly, when I got closer toward the ending, I sort of guessed who the guilty one was, but then more unexpected surprises happened, so I’m happy this story didn’t disappoint. I had a bit of a love/hate relationship with Michael, but I won’t spoil anything. The book will definitely make you wonder who the guilty one is. As always, feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

About the author: D.J. PALMER is the author of numerous critically acclaimed suspense novels. He received his master’s degree from Boston University and after a career in e-commerce he shifted gears to writing full time. He lives by the ocean in Massachusetts where he is working on his current novel. Besides writing, DJ enjoys yoga, songwriting, and family time with his two children and his ever faithful dog. For more info, click here.

“Strangers We Know”–Review

Good evening, fellow bloggers! I hope you’re enjoying some good reads. I was fortunate enough to receive an early copy of Strangers We Know from the author, herself, so I’d like to share my feedback.

After dealing with the frustrations of her unknown ailments, Ivy Hon starts some research on the possibility that whatever she has might come from her family’s history. But Ivy was adopted, so she knows so little about her biological family. Although she had been brought up by a decent, attentive family, Ivy has to know what’s going on. After doing a genetic test, she meets with an FBI agent who reveals that Ivy might be related to the Full Moon Killer, who has left residents of the Pacific Northwest terrified for years.

While finding it hard to believe, Ivy does research on the history of the Full Moon Killer. The information eventually leads to Ivy’s long-lost cousin, who lives in Rock Island, Washington. Then Ivy travels from San Francisco to Rock Island to meet this cousin, along with the Caine family. Ivy doesn’t want to believe she may be related to a serial killer, but any kind of information from the Caines may lead to answers for which she’s been searching. Yet some things seem a bit off, especially when it comes to questions she has about her birth parents. According to her family, Ivy’s biological mother suffered a tragic fate, while her father disappeared. The more information Ivy digs up, she can’t help feeling as if she’s being watched. Some things seem off with the Caines, yet Ivy wants to be wrong about her assumptions; the Caines may be all she has of finding answers, after all. But with the possibility that the Full Moon Killer is targeting people again, Ivy wonders if she’s next.

Thank you, again, to the author for this copy. I love a good suspense read. The backstory of Ivy’s biological mother, Tatum (that character shares my name), had my attention. I didn’t quite expect it to end the way it did—in fact, I don’t think I came close to guessing how it all would go down—but I can definitely recommend it for the suspense fan. Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

Strangers We Know will be available on May 1, 2022.

About the author:

Elle Marr strives to tell powerful and compelling stories of women who demonstrate resilience in the face of great obstacles. She is the author of thrillers, THE MISSING SISTER (2020), LIES WE BURY (2021), and STRANGERS WE KNOW (May 2022). 

THE MISSING SISTER was a #1 Amazon bestseller, #1 in the Kindle Store, an Amazon Charts bestseller, featured in Woman’s World, and named one of PopSugar’s “31 Thrillers of 2020.” LIES WE BURY earned a Kirkus starred review, was named one of The Nerd Daily’s Eagerly Anticipated Thrillers, and reached #1 in Serial Killer Fiction for four straight weeks. Publisher’s Weekly said, “Marr is a writer to watch.”

Originally from Sacramento, Elle Marr graduated from UC San Diego before moving to France, where she earned a master’s degree from the Sorbonne University in Paris.  When not working on her next book, she enjoys watching French Netflix shows with the subtitles off, in Oregon, where she lives with her family. For more info, click here.

“The Midnight Ride”–Review

Good evening, bloggers! I believe my last book review was in October, so my apologies for the wait. I’ve been more of a slow reader, what with changes in my schedule and all. Anyhow, here’s my latest read, which revolves around an event from the Revolutionary War in present day Boston:

An MIT grad student, Haily Gordon, is looking to make fast cash, and what better way than to go to the casino. Her area of expertise? Card counting. Suspicion arises, however, as her winnings accrue in so little time, so Hailey takes her chips and tries to escape casino security. It’s just her luck when she sees an unlocked room where she can hide for a bit…but then she sees a body.

Then Nick Patterson enters the unlocked room where he sees the same body and Hailey Gordon. Neither knows what the deal is. Nick is an ex-con who was offered a job while in prison, with hopes that all would change his life for the better. But it all changes in another way when he and Hailey uncover items that hold big, important secrets of Paul Revere’s work from the Revolutionary War.

Last, but not least, is Adrian Jensen, an American history professor, who learns of the death of his colleague and professional nemesis, Charles Walker. Charles’s death wasn’t an accident, though. After coming across some of Charles’s latest research, Adrian is determined to uncover what Charles may or may not have known about Paul Revere’s history.

When Hailey, Nick, and Adrian cross paths, they place their lives on the line to uncover what others are willing to kill to keep hidden.

While I’ve never been much of a history enthusiast, this story sounded promising. I like a good suspense read, after all. Yet it took me a while to read the whole book. And the way it ended? I’m not quite sure if it’s supposed to be part of a series…or if it was just intended to make the reader wonder and leave it at that. I don’t mind realistic endings, but this one didn’t make enough sense to me. I think I was more interested in Hailey’s card counting than anything else. I don’t know. Perhaps there will be another installment. For any history enthusiast, feel free to check it out; you might have a better experience. Happy reading!

The Midnight Ride will be available on February 22, 2022. I received this early copy in exchange for an honest review.

About the author: Ben Mezrich is the New York Times bestselling author of The Accidental Billionaires, Bringing Down the House, and The Social Network. For more info, click here.

Decorating tips I came across

Good evening, bloggers! I feel as if I’ve been absent from my blog for a long time. I’ll do my best to catch up with it all, of course. Since I’ve taken new, personal steps in the past few weeks, I haven’t had much time for a lot of writing and leisure reading. But, then, I found this helpful article on Instagram, so I thought I’d share it. My decorating skills aren’t so great, but I suppose I can practice. So, here you are, and enjoy.

Also, I’ll do my best to post a new book review.

https://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/create-a-reading-nook/

“This Is Love, Baby”–Review

All’s fair in love and war, right? Not this time…

Good evening, bloggers! Here’s a new review of This is Love, Baby, the second book in the War and Peace series, by K. Webster.

The second book continues where the first one left off. After months of trauma and sexual abuse from her captor, Gabe, Baylee Winston has found safety and love in Warren McPherson, the man who purchased her. Within time, though, it’s all over when Gabe finds Baylee, again, and takes her back to his isolated home to repeat the same abuse on her.

Meanwhile, Baylee’s boyfriend, Brandon, is on a mission to find her. Damaged from the event of Baylee’s capture, Brandon is ready to take Gabe down and rekindle what he and Baylee had.

When Baylee and Brandon reunite, however, Baylee can’t help noticing how off everything appears. Brandon seems to be keeping secrets from her, and Gabe still isn’t spilling important information that landed Baylee in that mess. Where are her parents? Why haven’t they been trying to find her? While the two men are at war with each other, Baylee is determined to get back to War, to end this nightmare forever.

K. Webster definitely didn’t disappoint. There were so many surprises, I was back and forth on my feelings toward Brandon, and Gabe is a character I love to hate. And then the cliffhanger? I need more! Yes, I will be reading the third book. Anyone here read the series? Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

Warning: For mature readers. This book contains strong sexual themes and violence. It’s not for everyone.

About the author: K. Webster is a USA Today Bestselling author. Her titles have claimed many bestseller tags in numerous categories, are translated in multiple languages, and have been adapted into audiobooks. She lives in “Tornado Alley” with her husband, two children, and her baby dog named Blue. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, drinking copious amounts of coffee, and researching aliens. You can find her on Facebook.

“The Rules Upheld By No One”–Review

Good afternoon, bloggers! Here’s a new recommendation for you all.

While her sisters have grown up receiving lavish gifts, as well as being married off to eligible men, Elisabeth Knolly is being prepped for a lifetime of servitude in the nunnery. But why, though? Her family had been well-off. Her parents were highly respected. All of a sudden, though, there is no dowry for Elizabeth, so it’s off to the convent for her.

Although she’s spent her whole life believing that any, little thing she does or thinks is against God’s word, sinful thoughts beckon her. Sexual thoughts and feelings. Especially for her little brother’s tutor, Samuel. Her parents will do anything to block her from all of it.

Even while in the nunnery, Elisabeth can’t fight those feelings. Guilt and shame eat away at her, yet she learns that she’s not the only nun with secrets. She realizes they all have a backstory as to why they dedicated their lives to the church. She even comes across a phallic-shaped object hidden in a library book, making her feel just as uneasy. But the worst part is the rumor that the nunnery’s chaplain is raping women, including the possibility that King Henry is looking to close down the abbeys, leaving the nuns on their own. After a traumatic event, however, Elisabeth decides to leave the nunnery. Realizing she has nowhere else to go—she can’t ever go back home—she finds shelter in a London brothel.

This story was well-written, enjoyable, heart-breaking and all. While many scenes angered me, what upset me the most was Elisa’s parents’ favoritism towards the rest of their children. Why did they shower the siblings with everything, yet train Elisa to act like an obedient, little servant? To banish her to a convent where outside communication wasn’t allowed? I felt more for her during her anger at the church’s hypocrisy, including all who attended who were quick to judge.

I could go on, but I’m afraid I’ll spoil it. Congratulations to Amie McNee on her debut novel. If you enjoy historical fiction—especially about sex, and a person’s right to pursue it—get yourself this copy. Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

About the author: Follow Amie on Instagram. For more info, click here.

“Sundays Are For Hangovers”–Review

Two neighbors at war… Only one can win.

Ever since Lilith Hamilton moved in next door, a year ago, she has made Will Grant’s life miserable. Her ’90s rap music always gets to him, not to mention the way she struts around as if she doesn’t have a care in the world. She drinks every weekend. Her yard is always neglected. But the one thing that truly drives him crazy is that he wants her. Badly.

For a year, despite how annoyed Lilith has been about Will’s being obsessed with perfection—especially when it comes to his lawn—she can’t help fantasizing about her hot neighbor.

The more the feuding neighbors get closer, the more they want each other. At the same time, however, they both are struggling with baggage neither wants to reveal. For now, they’ll continue to battle with their growing attraction between them, as well as the possibility that what they have is more than just sex. Can they really handle it?

Rarely do I read rom-coms, but this was an enjoyable story of an enemies-to-lovers romance, and the second half of the story got me reading more. It had a few funny moments, as well. K. Webster is an excellent writer, and I’ll be reviewing more of her stories. Also, I’ll have to check out J.D. Hollyfield’s work. For rom-com fans, pick up this book. Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

*This book contains strong, sexual content and language.

About the authors: J.D. Hollyfield is a creative designer by day and superhero by night. When she is not trying to save the world one happy ending at a time, she enjoys the snuggles of her husband, sons and three doxies. With her love for romance, and head full of book boyfriends, she was inspired to test her creative abilities and bring her own story to life. J.D. Hollyfield lives in the Midwest, and is currently at work on blowing the minds of readers, with the additions of her new books and series, along with her charm, humor and HEA’s. For more info, click here.

K. Webster is the USA Today bestselling author of over 50 romance books in many genres, including contemporary romance, historical romance, paranormal romance, dark romance, romantic suspense, taboo romance, and erotic romance. Her other passions include reading and graphic design. For more info, find her on Twitter and Facebook.

“Petrified Women”–Review

• 

Some pranks go too far. This one could be deadly.

Despite her best friend’s constant warnings, Harley ignores the fact that her boyfriend, Aiden, isn’t as great as he appears. Just because he thrives on practical jokes, it doesn’t make him a terrible person. Does it? He’s played practical jokes on Harley, after all, yet it was never a big deal. Unlike the last boyfriend who left her with trauma, Harley finally found a good guy.

Aiden is an artist who likes wood carving his own life-size female figurines. Sure, it all seems odd. But big deal, right? He’s an artist; it comes with the territory.

No matter, Aiden’s birthday is approaching, and Harley finally has the perfect plan to out-prank him. All for fun, of course. But while she hides in his apartment, waiting to really give him a good scare, Aiden eventually comes home. And that’s when Harley witnesses a more sinister side to Aiden. But is it all a prank? Or was Harley’s best friend right?

I’d recently read The House Plant, which I enjoyed, so I thought I’d give this novella a chance. While I find some practical jokes funny, I was curious about the deal behind the wooden women. In a way, it sort of made me think of House of Wax. This is a recommended read, especially for horror fans. I look forward to more. Jeremy is a great storyteller. Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

About the author:

Jeremy Ray graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a MFA in Dramatic Writing. He is the recipient of the Max K. Lerner Playwriting Fellowship for his play Boiling Point and the Shubert Playwriting Fellowship for his play Sisters of Transformation. His work has been performed at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, and his screenplays have placed in the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards Competition, The Academy Nicholl Fellowship, and the ScreenCraft Drama Contest. However, he is most fond of prose. He spends his free time devouring books like the bookworm he is. For more info, click here.

“Stroke of Midnight”–Review

• 

Money can buy anything. And anyone.

Hello, bloggers! Have I got a dirty story for you! I finally got around to reading the first book in K. Webster’s Cinderella series, so here it is.

Winston Constantine and his family are one of the richest and most powerful families in New York. In fact, they own the city. Winston has ruined the lives of those who’ve crossed him. He loves how quick people are to please him. He always makes it known how filthy rich he is.

But when he views the security tape of his new housekeeper slacking off in his office at his firm, he decides he’s going to reprimand this person. Never did he expect the housekeeper to be so hot, and young. Half his age, in fact. Instead of firing her, as he planned, Winston gives her a new position, one that’s too lucrative to turn away.

After her father wipes out her entire college fund to give to her new, superficial, plastic surgeon stepmother, Ash Elliott needs to earn back that lost money, to start a new life in college, and to finally escape her stepmother and her horrible triplet stepbrothers. But is she really willing to let Winston Constantine pay her big money to do degrading, humiliating things for his pleasure? The answer is yes. While she feels she’s going too far, that she’s humiliated herself enough, she craves more of it, more of him. Is all the money really worth it?

Regardless of the few sex scenes that had me saying, “Oh, hell no”—with humor, of course–I think the backstory is suspenseful. I can’t wait to read the second book. I’m not quite sure how I feel about these two characters yet, but I still want to know more. For those who’ve never read K. Webster’s books, this story is an age gap romance that contains strong, sexual content, consent, and language. Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

About the author: K Webster is a USA Today Bestselling author. Her titles have claimed many bestseller tags in numerous categories, are translated in multiple languages, and have been adapted into audiobooks. She lives in “Tornado Alley” with her husband, two children, and her baby dog named Blue. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, drinking copious amounts of coffee, and researching aliens. For more info, click here.

“Absolution”–Review

• 

After she was sexually assaulted by her college professor, Jeanie ends up pregnant. While she tries to figure out what to do about her situation, she can’t bear the idea of having to tell her traditional Catholic family. After all, her parents worked hard to send Jeanie to college. How could she let them down, now?

After a tough decision, Jeanie and her best friend, Carla, move from their small town in Pennsylvania to Atlanta, to start over. And that’s where Jeanie meets Greg Mercer.

Within a few weeks, she and Greg are married and living in Seattle. With everything happening so quickly, Jeanie feels that all will be fine, that her past will be behind her–as long as Greg never finds out about the assault and her shame.

Years pass, however, and while her ambitious, workaholic husband is constantly away from home, Jeanie is left to tend to their house and raise their two kids all by herself. Jeanie is lonely and frustrated, angry that he barely knows his children, and he barely pays attention to her, yet when she tries to open up to Greg about it, he says he’s working hard for the family. But what good is it all every time he puts his family second?

After a long time of thinking things over, Jeanie wants out of the marriage. She’s had enough of his narcissism, his constantly being away, and his neglecting their kids. Then Greg finds evidence of her long-ago pregnancy. Now that he knows, he won’t let Jeanie leave him, not while he’s worked for years to build an image for himself. If necessary, he’ll resort to blackmail just to make sure she remains his dutiful wife. Would Greg dare tell Jeanie’s family about her past?

I’ve wanted to read this book ever since I came across it on a random Instagram post, and it was a good choice. I really couldn’t guess how things were going to go down, but this was a page-turner. Every moment that Greg became unpredictable, I wondered if he would change for the better, or continue with his narcissistic ways. There had been moments where I was frustrated with Jeanie and the way she often made excuses for her husband, but I felt she’d wake up at some point.

Feel free to post your comments. Happy reading!

About the author: Regina Buttner is a registered-nurse-turned-writer from Upstate New York. Absolution is her first novel. For more info, click here.