Tag: suspense

Posted in Book Review

Review of: Reckless Girls, By Rachel Hawkins

Posted on by writingkat95

The Hook:

Adventurous couple Lux and Nico are hired to sail two women to a remote island in the South Pacific, a job which Lux is more than eager to take. The group quickly bond, but the girls may be more than Lux has bargained for. The island itself has a reputation for grisly shipwrecks and tales of cannibals, and to the group’s surprise, is already playing host to golden couple Jake and Eliza when they arrive. Off the grid and each protecting their own secrets, the group of six are in for an unforgettable time on the island.

My Impressions:

As usual, Rachel Hawkins delights and entertains with her witty, snappy writing style and deliciously devious characters. I consumed this book in practically a single bite, surprised when I reached the end and saw how much time had passed. It felt like a much shorter read than it was, largely because it was such fun to devour.

I’m a huge fan of this sort of book, where several characters with hidden agendas and dark secrets are confined together in some beautiful setting, then shaken up like a snow globe to see how everything lands. Hawkins is excellent at this, carefully setting up each character before she knocks them down with precision.

Fans of Liv Constantine and Megan Collins are sure to enjoy this twisty tale of secrets and suspense, and if you’re looking for a good beach read this summer, you couldn’t ask for a better one than this.

Happy Reading!

Posted in Book Review

Review of Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead by Elle Cosimano

Posted on by writingkat95

The Hook:

Our favorite mystery writer Finlay is back again, getting into even more shenanigans in the seedy world of contract killers. This time, she must unearth the identity of the person who has taken out a hit on her ex-husband. Before long, she finds herself in a high stakes game of cat and mouse with the assassin stalking her ex, and she’ll have to dig deep to decide what to do about all the peril he’s in.

My Impressions:

I could literally talk for hours about the Finlay Donovan books, which are undoubtably some of my favorite books in the entire mystery genre. The protagonist is extremely likable and fun to root for, the side characters are all memorable and enjoyable to read about, and the suspense is balanced perfectly with humor. I laughed so hard at times while reading this that I’m told my shrieks could be easily heard from across the house.

In a time when so much media strives to be dark and broody and to “subvert audience expectations” by pulling out increasingly alienating plot twists and shocking character deaths, books like this are truly a breath of fresh air. Cosimano’s writing style feels welcoming, as if the book is meant to take the reader by the hand and lead them on a fun, suspenseful journey with beloved characters.

I honestly loved every minute of this book, and will be reading it again whenever I need a pick-me-up or a reminder of what excellent foreshadowing and tight plotting can accomplish. Every single delicious beat of this book is constructed with a love of the genre and a level of respect and affection for the readers that is in a league of it’s own.

If you’ve read this book already, feel free to leave a comment discussing it, as I’d love to hear what other readers liked most about the story.

Happy reading!

Posted in Book Review

Review: The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

Posted on by writingkat95

The Hook:

Hannah Hall’s husband, Owen, slips her a note before disappearing. The note, which seems to refer to his daughter, says only: “Protect her.”

My Impressions:

Twisty and fun to read, if perhaps not the most suspenseful thriller I’ve read lately. The parts where this book truly shines, though, are the emotional moments between Hannah and her stepdaughter, Bailey. Their evolving feelings toward one another as they grapple with the uncertainty of Owen’s sudden departure are the true driving force behind this story, and it’s all the better for it.

Readers seeking a thriller without too much blood or bite but with no less opportunity for emotional investment are sure to enjoy this novel. Perfect to listen to as an audiobook on your commute or to read during the rare quiet moments in between the chaos of the holiday season, this is one novel you won’t want to miss.

Happy reading!