Melody's Reading Corner: Psychological Suspense

Showing posts with label Psychological Suspense. Show all posts

Melody

Bantam | 12 September 2023 | 288 pgs

Source: Library

Most people will avoid buying a haunted or a murder house, but not Sarah Slade. A self-help writer and therapist, she believes that renovating Black Wood House will give it a new life and not to mention that it might help to boost her fame both for her blog and her book. However, her husband thinks otherwise but Sarah's mind is set. This decision further put a strain on their already rocky marriage but Sarah is adamant.

After they've moved into the house and begins the renovations, they start to experience a lot of strange occurrences. Such as, the contractor injured himself while doing the plumbing (an unfortunate accident?) or unexplained footsteps in the attic when no one is around (spooky!). Granted, it's an old house but Sarah couldn't shake the feeling that she's also being watched. On top of that, her neighbours and the community shun her like a plague and Sarah started to feel frightened after finding threatening notes meant only for her. Despite everything, Sarah wants to find out about the murder that happened in her house and if it is connected to the threatening notes she's been receiving lately.

I've to confess I've mixed feelings about this book but let's start off with the things that I liked first. I loved the spooky, atmospheric element. A haunted/murder house usually draw me into the story and all the more with the main character being unreliable and harbour secrets and a dark past. Now onto the things that gave me doubts. I'm not sure if this book is leaning towards the horror genre or the psychological suspense genre; and ultimately a reader who chose either one might be left feeling a tad disappointed, depending on one's expectations. Well, at least this reader was.

Finally, Sarah. I did not understand her behaviours and actions at times and if there's one thing which made me dislike her more, that is she's stolen someone's (who's close to her) boyfriend and made him her husband. That said, the ending was a surprise (which led me to question some issues) but overall I enjoyed the author's writing.

© 2023 Melody's Reading Corner (https://mel-reading-corner.blogspot.sg/), All Rights Reserved. If you are reading this post from other site(s), please take note that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 6 comments |

Two Novellas by Peter Swanson | A Perfect Deal

Melody

MysteriousPress.com/Open Road | 6 December 2022 | 55 pgs (e-book)

Source: Library

This novella by Peter Swanson is part of the Bibliomysteries series. So it begins when Henry and his wife, Alice, go for their honeymoon trip and stay in a New England lake house. Upon their arrival, Henry is immediately struck by a sense of déjà vu. After all, it reminds him of their house with shelves full of midcentury-American crime novels. However, there's one book that's caught his attention. The Honeymoon Trap is the title; and the more he reads it, the more he finds that the story has uncanny similarities with his own situation. Such as, the two characters in the book are newlyweds on a honeymoon after a whirlwind romance, just like Henry and Alice. And like the female character in the story, Alice is seen acting suspiciously and Henry soon become obsessed with their whereabouts both in the fiction world and in reality; eventually leading him to believe that murder might be the only way to get out of the trap which he believes he's in.

This has a great premise. A story within a story, but what was that ending? It left me confused, and a bit perplexed because it made no sense to me. If you've read it, please let me know what I'd missed.

(3 stars)

William Morrow | 17 October 2023 | 112 pgs

Source: Library

This is another novella by Peter Swanson which I feel works great for a novel too with more in-depth plots and characterisations.

In part one of the story, Ashley Smith is spending her time alone on Christmas Day and stumble upon a diary which she'd written thirty years ago in 1989. She was an American Art student studying in London then and was invited to spend the Christmas holiday with her classmate and her family at Starvewood Hall in Clevemoor. Ashley was impressed by Emma Chapman's manor house but most of all, she was attracted by Emma's twin brother, Adam. But there's something secretive about Adam; and Ashley was quite unsettled when she was told that she resembled a local girl who was murdered.

The second part of the story is the present day in which Ashley reflects on the events happened thirty years ago and this is where the truth unravel and will make you gasp in surprise. I loved that ending; and not to mention the Gothic atmosphere of the English village in Clevemoor. An extraordinary festive read if you don't mind a little thrill to it.

(4 stars)

Recently I watched this K-drama (The Perfect Deal) about a staged kidnapping case that gone wrong. Three friends (starring Yoo Seung Ho, Kim Dong Hwi and Yoo Soo Bin) met up for a drink after having not seen each other for a while. Two of them faced financial problems and after seeing the other drunk, they decided to "kidnap" him for ransom since his family is rich. But things didn't go well for them and their situation become complicated and even dangerous as the case involves more people and the secrets they're all trying to hide. By the time the two friends have realised their mistakes, they've already reached the point of no return.

I couldn't recommend this drama high enough. Though short with only eight episodes, it captured the dynamics between the trio and show how desperation could drive one into choosing an unethical decision. Though what the two friends did are wrong and unforgivable, I felt sorry for them for the difficult (financial) situation they're in. If only they've chosen a better and a wiser route, perhaps their fate would've been different.

(4.5 stars)

Labels: 3 stars, 4 stars, 4.5 stars, Book Review, Crime Thriller, Korean drama, Mysteries, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

The Bones of the Story by Carol Goodman

Melody

William Morrow| 11 July 2023 | 336 pgs

Source: Library

Twenty-five years ago, a female student went missing within the compound of Briarwood College. Thereafter, the death of a Creative Writing professor shocked the college community after he was found dead while searching for that missing student. Back to the present, a college President is bringing together the faculty, the donors, and alumni to honor the victims that happened from all those years ago.

But it isn't an ideal proposal, as Nell Portman, the Dean, thought. Aside from the weather forecast about the upcoming winter storm, Nell isn't comfortable about the thought of the alumni gathering. After all, bad memories linger in her mind as she thought of the recriminations and the competitiveness amongst the group of alumni; in which many of them were assigned to write about their fears for their writing projects and then bad things happened. And as the winter storm descends and it's a bit too late for the guests to leave, the group soon find themselves trapped on their ex-college campus and as an alumna died in a similar way as her story she had written for the writing projects years ago, followed by another alumna, and another; the group begin to question themselves if someone has decided to break the silence and to avenge the crimes of the past.

Alternating between Then and Now, this was an atmospheric story about secrets and rivalries within the old college. I've enjoyed many Carol Goodman's books in the past, and this book sounded wonderful with the locked-room element set amid a winter storm but alas, I'd had a hard time following the story because it was slow-paced and there're too many characters to keep straight and on top of it, most of them are unlikeable. While there're still some good twists and turns, I think one has to suspend disbelief at some point. Although my reaction to this book was lukewarm, overall I did like the academia and the atmospheric setting.

Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 4 comments |

The Soulmate by Sally Hepworth

Melody

St. Martin's Press | 4 April 2023 | 336 pgs

Source: Library

Gabe and Pippa Gerard, together with their two young daughters, live in a lovely cottage on a cliff in a sleepy coastal town. It's a perfect setting, or so they thought, but they didn't expect that it's also a popular spot for people who want to end their lives. On several occasions, Gabe had coaxed and saved them from ending their lives, thus earning himself a name for his heroic acts within their community. However there's a day that Gabe didn't manage to coax a woman and she fell to her death. The police eventually determined her death as suicide, but Pippa couldn't shake off the feeling that Gabe seems to be hiding some facts and acted strangely on that fateful day. Pippa later learns that Gabe knew that woman; and she begins to wonder about their connection and what if he didn't save her but had pushed her to her death?

This book was a riveting read and it has many elements aside from the suspense aspect. It gives us more than a glimpse of the intricacy of marriage and relationship, a case of characters study as well as how far one would go in keeping secrets and maintaining a facade.

The story was told in two POVs between the present and the past; but what makes this such an interesting read is the voice of a deceased character. While this narrative is not common in books, I think it works in this domestic thriller given it a fresh perspective from the others of the same genre. The secondary characters are equally compelling and added depth to the story. The twist towards the end was a great one, though it left me a hollow feeling. Overall it was an engrossing read and I'd recommend this book if you love a good domestic suspense.

Labels: 4.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 6 comments |

Have You Seen Her by Catherine McKenzie

Melody

Atria Books | 27 June 2023 | 334 pgs

Source: Library

At its core, this book revolves around secrets, deceptions and missing persons mainly set in Yosemite National Park.

Cassie Peters is leaving her past and shedding her old identity as she made her escape to her old hometown in Mammoth Lakes, California. Who she's running away from is a mystery in the beginning but that'd unravel as the story progresses. Cassie used to work with Yosemite Search and Rescue many years ago but left due to an incident which still haunt her today. Given this circumstances she'd have avoided going down to that route but desperation could drive a person into making hasty decisions so she's back to join a group of fellow seasonal workers and making new friends as well.

During her work on different occasions she meets two young women, Petal and Jada. Petal lives in a trailer with her partner; an older woman who keeps things to herself and remains aloof to others. Petal, on the other hand, is more vocal though she only write her inner thoughts and the daily occurrences on a journal (part of a narrative which I enjoyed reading aside from Cassie's between now and then). Jada is a college graduate who goes on a cross-country trip with her boyfriend while documenting their journey on Instagram but later both go missing. This turn of events set the story in momentum, as the reader will learn that these three women harbour secrets of their own and any one could have a hidden agenda.

I loved the atmospheric backdrop of Yosemite National Park; through the author's descriptive writing I could imagine the beauty and the adventurous trail it entails for the hikers. I also enjoyed reading more about the role of the Search and Research team and how perilous their job can be. The characters are well-portrayed and flawed; and the dynamics between these three characters are explosive as the story unravels. The ending was a good twist, though it left some threads hanging in my opinion but I suppose that'd be at the disclosure of each reader's imagination. I'm a fan of Catherine McKenzie and though this isn't my favourite, I love her writing style and her crafty suspense that always left me intrigue.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

Don't You Dare by Jessica Hamilton

Melody

Crooked Lane Books | 16 May 2023 | 272 pgs

Source: Library

Hannah and Scarlett are best friends in college, until they met Thomas and he created a ripple in their friendship. While Scarlett makes sure that their friendship remains platonic, it doesn't take long for Hannah and Thomas to fall for each other. The trio's dynamic becomes more tense and complicated after they play the Daring Games and eventually lead to a tragedy, resulting Thomas being expelled from the college. No one heard from him thereafter.

Sixteen years later, Hannah receives a note about the Daring Game from Thomas. Hannah is married and have a young daughter, but her life isn't happy. She and Scarlett still contact with each other via texts occasionally, but their close friendship is no longer the same since that tragedy. With her unhappy marriage and without Scarlett around, Hannah rekindle her friendship with Thomas, or to be exact, their love relationship behind her husband's back as well as resuming the Daring Games. Until a day they both receive a note telling them to meet at their secret meeting place of the Daring Games, daring them to "tell the truth".

This was an additive and compelling read. I found it unputdownable but the characters are unlikeable, to say the least. The dynamics between Hannah, Scarlett and Thomas are the draw and strength of the story, but at times I find their behaviours juvenile and full of angst. Most of all, I think it's a bit unbelievable seeing two adults continuing the Daring Games as if they were teenagers, but I suppose I'd accept it for the entertainment, the intensity and the story developments. I also find the ending a bit mediocre but I did enjoy the author's writing and her ability to capture the reader's interest. I'm definitely curious to know what she has in store for her next book.

Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 2 comments |

The Dark by Emma Haughton

Melody

Hodder & Stoughton | 19 August 2021 | 384 pgs

Source: Library

Dr. Kate North is trying to gather herself after a tragedy that took her lover, Ben, away. So when she's given an opportunity to be an emergency replacement at the UN research station in Antarctica, she said yes to the offer without much thinking. At that point, she's only glad that no one around will ask about her past and that she'll have all the freedom in an isolated place like the Antarctica, in spite of the harsh weather condition and any other risk factors associated with it. Furthermore, there's only thirteen staff there, including herself.

Upon her arrival, she's shocked to learn that no one is there to guide her regarding her job scope. The previous doctor, Jean-Luc, died in a tragic accident while out on the ice and when Kate tries to ask more about his accident, no one offers more information or they just simply brush it off. As the days go on, Kate soon find that the group’s dynamic has become more strained and there's a sense of mistrust lingering among them. She has a feeling it has got to do with Jean-Luc's death and she's set to find out on her own whether if Jean-Luc was murdered and who's the murderer living among them.

I was intrigued by the claustrophobic atmosphere in this book. After all, Antarctica isn't a tourist destination for that matter and we could only experience it through armchair travel. To begin with, Kate's narrative was engaging but I couldn't connect with her as a character. For a medical professional, I felt that she was rather impulsive and overreacting in some circumstances. She relies too much on pills (given her mental state over the past tragedy) and this made her vulnerable. Also, since there are other twelve characters, I didn't feel they were flesh-out enough although a few stood out due to their (loud) personality. Pacing- and intensity-wise, it was slow until the last third of the story and thereafter things started to escalate and it ended quickly. Overall it had a good premise but I think it'd make a propulsive thriller with better execution.

Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 5 comments |

A Death at the Party by Amy Stuart

Melody

Simon & Schuster | 7 March 2023 | 304 pgs

Source: Library

The story begins with a dead body at a birthday party. His identity is a mystery and Nadine Walsh, our lead character, was found standing over his body in her basement while a birthday party is still in full swing.

Flashback to that fateful morning, Nadine is checking her to-do list for her mother's birthday party. She has made sure that nothing will be left out and that everything will go according to plans; after all her mother is bestselling author, Marilyn Millay, and she's turning 60. Nadine didn't invite a lot of guests, they're all merely her and her husband's closest friends and colleagues, as well as their neighbours. But, what the others didn't know is that the birthday party isn't entirely a celebration for Marilyn, it also marks the day of another anniversary. As the time begins to count down towards the party as Nadine prepares for the party, she'll come to reflect on the past events that still haunt her till today, as well as the whole truth she's been looking for.

This was a slowburn domestic suspense, but then it was necessary given the story was set over the course of one day and there were the emotions and reactions from Nadine towards the present and the past, as well as her interactions with the few neighbours around her whom they play a huge part to the story. Nadine's character was well described though I couldn't say I liked her; she was too much of a complicated woman with secrets and it didn't help that a past event had kind of traumatised her in a way. There were enough red herrings throughout the story; and it was satisfactory to see the past and the present kind of connected towards the end as the truth unveiled. I loved this author's writing so I'll be sure to check out her other books.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 4 comments |

The Only Survivors by Megan Miranda

Melody

Quercus | 11 April 2023 | 352 pgs

Source: Library

Ten years ago, two vans crashed into a ravine killing two teachers and several high school students. Nine students survived the crash. All of them weren't really friends but the tragedy has kind of bonded them together. Then a year later, one of them, Clara, committed suicide and thereafter the remaining eight survivors decided to meet annually at a beach house called "The Shallows" to commemorate the anniversary of the accident as well as a promise to look out for one another and make sure that what really happened that fateful night isn't disclose to anyone.

Cassidy, our narrator in this book, decides to move on from that tragedy after a decade and has gradually removed their contacts until she receives a text from an unknown number informing her that Ian, another of the survivor, died. Cassidy has no choice but to join the reunion since she wants to know what happened to him, considering he was the closest friend among the others. But the reunion feels a little off as if someone was watching them, and then another disappeared. Cassidy begins to fear that something darker than survivors' guilt has bound them together and wonder if there's someone outside who wants the truth. Could there be more secrets among the remaining survivors and could she trust any of them?

The story alternates between the present and the past, featuring Cassidy's POV in the present and varying voices from the past. I enjoyed reading the past more partly because it was more intense and action-packed, while Cassidy's narrative was a bit erratic due to her emotions and her reactions towards various circumstances. The pace of the story moved slowly and nothing much happened and it only speed up towards the end as the past unravel. While the story has a foreboding atmosphere and there's even a twist towards the end, I felt the setup was far too long for the revelation which I find a bit disappointing. That said, I liked the way how the author created the claustrophobic setting within The Shallows and the group’s dynamic so I'll still be interested to check out her future releases.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

The Villa by Rachel Hawkins

Melody

St. Martin's Press | 3 January 2023 | 288 pgs

Source: Library

"Houses remember." With this sentence it begins the story in Rachel Hawkins' latest release set in Orvieto, Italy.

Emily and Chess are good friends since young but their friendship kind of fizzled out as the years go by. Both of them are writers; the former writes cozy mysteries and the latter self-help books. When Chess suggested a trip to Italy one day, Emily knew this would be a chance to reconnect with her and that the trip would reignite her creativity in writing the next installment of her bestselling series.

Prior to the trip, Chess has booked themselves into Villa Aestas. Once known as Villa Rosato, the high-end holiday house is also famous by the stay of a notorious rock star and his entourage way back in 1974. Noel Gordon was on the verge of losing his creativity spark, so he planned on a Summer trip at Villa Rosato and invited up-and-coming musician Pierce Sheldon, his girlfriend, Mari, as well as her stepsister, Lara. Alongside was Johnnie, who was Noel's friend-cum-drug dealer. It was supposedly to be a trip of fun and relaxation, but the group’s dynamics took an ugly turn and ended one being dead.

Despite what happened at Villa Aestas, Emily and Chess are intrigued by the past and Emily even think that there might be more to the story and she's keen to find out more. After all, what could motivate her creativity more than this? But as Emily digs further, the tension between her and Chess also rises due to some unforeseen circumstances and a secret one harbours from the other. Will history repeat itself in Villa Rosato?

I enjoyed this story a lot. I loved the alternative storyline between the present and the past. Villa Rosato was atmospheric on its own but regrettably there wasn't much coverage of this rented holiday house but there was sure a lot of tension among Noel's group of friends. It was a treat reading how the story in 1974 unfold; and how intriguing to learn more about the dynamics between Emily and Chess in the present at the same time. I've read comments by some readers that they preferred more of the present story, but in my opinion both are good and equal in terms of intrigue and one wouldn't stand out and/or proceed without the other. If you ask me, I was most intrigued by Mari as a character; not only was she a writer like Emily and Chess but her inner thoughts as well. I think the ending is a love-it or hate-it kind of closure and personally I found it quite fitting to the overall tone of the story.

Labels: 4.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

The Family Game by Catherine Steadman

Melody

Simon & Schuster UK | 29 September 2022 | 400 pgs

Source: Library

This book features one of the most unusual families I've ever read and if you've watched this movie, Ready or Not, they've similar vibes though this is more of a whodunit kind of story.

Harriet Reed is basking in her success after selling her first thriller book and while she is writing and worrying over her second book's deadline, her mind nowadays is occupied by her engagement to Edward Holbeck. Edward is a perfect man in many women's eyes - he's young, good-looking and he's the heir to a successful and powerful family who has their name and reputation well-built over decades.

When Harriet first receives an invitation from Edward's sister for a drink, she's nervous yet she's excited too. She could tell the Holbeck family exudes power and authority after Mathilda's assistant changed her meeting appointment with her publisher so that she could attend the meet up with Mathilda. Granted, the publisher is a part of the Holbeck's business conglomerate and Harriet only finds out much later. It's not long that Harriet is invited for dinner with the family and she finds herself attracted by Edward’s father's charisma yet there's an edge behind his cool demeanour which she couldn't put her finger on.

But Harriet is quick to impress Robert Holbeck so when he hands her a cassette tape of a book he's been working on, she couldn't say no. And the more Harriet listen to it, the more Robert's narrative read like a murder confession than a fiction. And as if this isn't enough, the Holbecks has several (weird) traditional family games which they'd play during occasions which scare her. Harriet isn't sure if all these are simply part of their plan to test her loyalty; if not would she be able to escape from the Holbecks' mind games?

As much as the story goes, I think it was a bit far-fetched yet it was very entertaining and unputdownable. The characters drove you crazy yet you couldn't shift your attention away. I'd mixed feelings towards Harriet though; one moment I felt sorry for her and then frustrated and annoyed at her actions next. Robert's narrative was intriguing and I always love reading a frame story. I'd have given this book a 4-star but alas that ending (more of the motive) felt a bit ridiculous in my opinion but suffice it to say there wasn't any boring moments so overall it was an engrossing read.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

Insomnia by Sarah Pinborough

Melody

HarperCollins | 31 March 2022 | 352 pgs

Source: Library

I was impressed by Sarah Pinborough's past novel, Behind Her Eyes, as I thought the plot was refreshing and twisty. However, I'd lukewarm feelings about this book and I'll get to that shortly.

Emma Averell is a successful lawyer who balances her career and family life well but is afraid of her 40th birthday approaching. She has her reasons since her mother has gotten mad towards reaching forty and due to this and her estrangement with her mother due to a traumatic past, she's left quite haunted by the emotional turmoil and all these exacerbate her insomnia issue coming her 40th birthday. In addition, her relationship with her sister Phoebe hasn't been good and her sudden arrival leads her wondering if she has an agenda. What follows is Emma's bout of anxiety and in between her paranoia and her insomnia problems you began to wonder if she's really gone mad or if she (or the reader) is being gaslight.

So here are my thoughts about the good and the not-so-good. To begin with, Sarah Pinborough has a way of writing that sucks you in. Her characters are usually complex yet intriguing and even if they aren't reliable, the reader is attracted by their narratives. Also, the subject matter in this book is a common issue in today's society so it makes the reader feel relatable and empathy towards Emma. As for the not-so-good part, it was slow and repetitive at times. Emma could get on one's nerves with her constant whining (about hitting the big 4-0) and truth be told, I found it lacking in the thrill department until the last third of the book; and by then it didn't help with how I felt about the overall story. That said, I still find the premise interesting and that it'd be an even more intriguing read with better execution.

© 2022 Melody's Reading Corner (https://mel-reading-corner.blogspot.sg/), All Rights Reserved. If you are reading this post from other site(s), please take note that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.

Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 12 comments |

Fish Swimming in Dappled Sunlight by Riku Onda

Melody

Bitter Lemon Press | 26 July 2022 | 286 pgs

Source: Library

Translated from the Japanese by Alison Watts

Where to begin? Everything about this story baffled me; starting with the sunny poetic title which has nothing to do as what it suggested (or perhaps I just missed it). In any case the concept was refreshing albeit a bit muddled in my opinion.

The story opens with a couple in their shared flat for a late night conversation before they go on separate ways. Aki and Hiro felt they've to know each other's feelings and thoughts after their mountain trek in which their guide had fallen off the mountain. To begin with, their relationship has somewhat broken down before the trip and looking back, they began to wonder if the other has anything to do with the guide's death.

Set over the course of one night, the reader will soon learn that the mind games between the couple go far beyond from that fateful trekking trip as there's something more about their past which might have start the chains of events leading to what happened on the mountain.

With narratives alternate between Aki and Hiro, this story was draped in an intense, suffocative atmosphere which have you question the characters' inner thoughts and the unravelling truth as a new day began. Truth be told, the strength of the story lies in the taut atmospheric setting and the tension between the characters but the suspense of the guide's death was shadowed by the characters' reminiscence as the story progresses. It was quite a well-crafted story characters-wise but a bit lacking in the thriller department (though I later understand that this isn't the core of the story at all). This book wasn't what I'd expected initially but the author's writing intrigued me. Perhaps I should check out her previous book, The Aosawa Murders (selected by NYT as one of most notable books of 2020.)

Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Japanese Literature, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

The Retreat by Sarah Pearse

Melody

Bantam Press | 21 July 2022 | 368 pgs

Source: Library

We're first introduced to Detective Elin Warner in Sarah Pearse's The Sanatorium and learnt that Elin was taking leave from her job due to PTSD issue. Although she's back in this book to investigate for a new case set at an eco-wellness retreat on an island off the English coast, she's still shaken by the memories at times though she's getting better as the time goes by.

Known locally as Reaper’s Rock, the island has its fair share of horror stories due to a murder which took place years back and the curse surrounding the place. Elin is called to the retreat because a woman's body was found on the rocks below the yoga pavilion. Initial speculation is the woman fell off the pavilion due to a mishap, but she wasn't a guest and wasn't meant to be on the island at all, in which was later rectified that her visit was a surprise by a few guests who knew her. Thereafter, there's another death in the following day when a man drowned in a diving incident. It is probably not a coincidence, considering both victims come from the same circle of family and friends who stay there for some relaxation. As Elin and her partner, DC Steed, begin their investigation around the retreat, they will soon find out the complicated relationship and dynamics within the group of family/friends and also, what really happened on the island years back.

First off, the atmospheric setting was a draw and the author knows how to capture her readers' attention through this setup as a locked-room mystery, just like the same as The Sanatorium. Her cast of characters are usually intriguing though not all are likeable, but I'm fine with this as this bring out the characteristics in them. However, it took this reader a while to get familiarise with the characters in the beginning and the pace was slow, with nothing much going on except reading about the bickering and gossips among the characters. It's clear that some of them have secrets and are not honest with one another. As the story progresses, it was interesting to learn that the past murder was connected to the present so that leave readers the questions why and how?

Overall I found it to be an average read but I've to say I enjoyed reading about Elin more in this book as compared to the previous book. She's shown resilience and put aside her insecurities at times in dealing with some tough situations, though not all are wise move and could be considered reckless sometimes but it's a start away from her old self. After the sanatorium and the retreat, I wonder what setup the author has in mind for her next book.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 6 comments |

The Heights by Louise Candlish

Melody

Simon & Schuster UK | 5 August 2021 | 448 pgs

Source: Library

Ellen Saint is meeting a client at her house in an apartment building, The Heights, when she sees Kieran Watts standing on the rooftop terrace. Seeing Kieran has sent a wave of shock and rage in her; afterall he was dead and she's responsible in his death.

Two years ago, Ellen was living a peaceful life until Kieran waltzed into her son's life and thereafter, there was nothing but troubles and frustrations as she sees Kieran was a bad influence to her son, Lucas. Considering him a catalyst that leads to the family's misery, Ellen decided to take matters into her own hands with some help from her ex-husband, Vic. We all know from the start that things didn't go as planned, and this is where I should refrain from saying more as the highlight of the story is finding out the dynamics between Ellen and Kieran, her interactions with Vic and where the direction will go after Ellen learnt about Kieran's existence and his whereabouts.

As the title suggests, it is about the apartment building where Kieran resides but it is also about Ellen's acrophobia and her other weakness - 'The call of the void' (also known as 'high place phenomenon' characterised by a sudden compulsion to jump). Ellen wasn't a character whom you'd like or read easily; she's flawed and full of hatred and vengeance that would lead the reader wondering if her actions are justified or is she just being obsessive and vengeful. Yet, from another perspective, her role and her emotions as a mother feel real and raw and I couldn't help but to feel sorry for her during those moments. The pace wasn't fast for a thriller, though it did pick up towards the last quarter but it's readable for the character developments and not to mention the explosive ending which would surprise the reader. Overall, I think this book was good but not my favourite. I'd recommend Our House, though, if you want to give this author a try.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 6 comments |

The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

Melody

HarperCollins | 3 March 2022 | 416 pgs

Source: Purchased

Lucy Foley is a master when it comes to creating suspense in her stories. This is what I've learned after reading The Guest List and The Hunting Party; and this book is no exception.

Right from the beginning, you feel there's something off about the old building at No. 12 Rue des Amants, set in Paris. At the heart of this story is Benjamin and Jess, in which the former has disappeared from his apartment from the above-mentioned building after inviting his half-sister to stay with him for the time being. Jess isn't happy with her job at a bar and her life in London, so she thought it'd be good to leave the city and look for Benjamin instead. After all, it's been a while since they've met each other.

But upon Jess's arrival, Benjamin didn't answer to her calls. With no one to turn to and with limited financials, she's no choice but to break into the apartment building. But, she's left with an unsettling feeling after letting herself into Benjamin's unit for there is still no sight of Benjamin. Jess, however, did get to know a few residents (even the old concierge who seems to be watching everything) after a few nights there. As much as they're polite to Jess, they're not forthcoming with any info when it comes to Benjamin. Their sometimes aloof and secretive demeanour further leave Jess in jittery on top of Benjamin's disappearance and the reader would soon find out the secrets at No. 12 Rue des Amants through Jess's eyes.

I've to say this was a compelling read despite there wasn't many actions surrounding the story. That said, the suspense and the foreboding atmosphere was great. The cast of characters are intriguing and for once, I was glad to note that there's at least someone I could root for in a suspense genre like this - Jess. She's determined and courageous, yet her recklessness at times had left me quite worried for her safety (yes, she's a survivor and I liked her for that). Her interactions with the residents are the highlights of this story; and despite Benjamin's minimal existence in this story, he did project an unforgettable impression of his wits and charms through the residents' account. The ending was a surprise, but not to an extent that wowed me. Still, it made an enjoyable, engaging read and all the more I read this together with my bookblogger friend, Lark. Go check out her review here and read what she thought about this book.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 12 comments |

Reckless Girls by Rachel Hawkins

Melody

St. Martin's Press | 4 January 2022 | 320 pgs

Source: Library

In a nutshell, Reckless Girls is a locked-room mystery set in an isolated island. I've always been a fan of locked-room mysteries and having read the author's previous novel, The Wife Upstairs, I've high expectations of this book but regrettably, it left me feeling a bit disappointed.

Meroe Island is located in the middle of Pacific Ocean with a sad history of a mysterious shipwreck that had happened so long ago. Rumours have it that the island is haunted; and that cannibalism is part of the mystery, too. Not many people dare to explore that island, until time has kind of diminished the rumours but the history of the shipwrecks remain.

The journey begins when Lux and Nico decided to have a little sea adventure on Nico's boat, alongside with two other women who hired Nico to bring them to Meroe Island. Nico has been a free spirited guy who loves sailing and exploring the world. Lux, on the other hand, is tired of her job as a hotel maid and since she's devoted to her relationship with Nico, she decides that sailing with some strangers shouldn't be a bad thing considering the two female travellers, Brittany and Amma, paid a hefty sum for the ferrying.

When the four of them reached Meroe Island, they found they're not alone as they saw a luxurious boat docked before them. Eliza and Jack are a couple and the others could tell they're rich by their demeanour and of course, their boat and its facilities they seem to offer. The six of them become friends quickly; and they've a fun time having the island to themselves until an interloper disrupt their (make-believe happy) equilibrium and turn their dynamics into something dark and sinister. But then, it's not entirely the interloper's fault as each of them harbour a secret and they're about to unleash under their own fear and threats in an isolated island.

For a thriller, there isn't many actions in the first three-quarter of the book as it mostly focus on the interactions between the six characters who remind me a lot about the participants in reality TV show reminiscent of Survivor, Lost and the likes. The setting has a claustrophobic feeling and the cast of characters are intriguing so I think this is the strength of the story. However, the ending came off as abrupt and over-the-top, thus it seemed a little unhinged from the first half of the book. Apart from this, the characters aren't likeable and while this isn't an issue, it didn't help with my outlook on the story though I've to say it kept me entertained. All in all I'd still recommend this if you want a fun read and a brief break from reality.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 12 comments |

The Wild Girls by Phoebe Morgan

Melody

HQ | 15 April 2021 | 320 pgs

Source: Library

To begin with, this was a story about four friends and how their wild pasts have caught up with them set in a luxury retreat in Botswana.

Grace, Alice, Hannah and Felicity used to be besties since their college days. But their relationship fell apart due to a gathering one night, leading to misunderstanding, miscommunication and finally estrangement. In the introduction, it was clear that the four friends, with the exception of Felicity, was not fully happy and satisfied with their lives. Felicity was a mysterious character, partly because she's vanished without a trace and like the other three friends, the reader couldn't stop wondering about her until the invitation arrives.

Imagine the curiosity and the anticipation when all heard about Felicity finally making her appearance. And that's not all, she's inviting them all to her birthday bash in Botswana with all expenses paid. Despite their skepticism, they proceed to meet up their long-time friend while hoping to reconnect their friendship on an African safari vacation.

But then things didn't go expectantly once they've arrived at the luxury safari lodge. For starters, there's no sign of the promised party and the guests. Felicity is nowhere in sight, although they receive a text from her and ask them to make themselves at home; and that she'd be joining them very soon. As the three friends settle down quickly, they couldn't help feeling a sense of unease and foreboding as the time passes and Felicity is still nowhere in sight. To complicate matters, the place is isolated and there's no phone signal. What happened to Felicity and is anyone within the group has planned the trip with an ulterior motive?

I dived into this book with high hope and expectations because of the locked-room mystery set in an exotic location. I'm not really familiar with Botswana so I was looking forward to reading more of this place. Unfortunately, there wasn't much information or description of it except the fictional lodge the characters are staying. There wasn't much description of any wildlife too so in my opinion, the setting was simply in the wild but minus the safari experience. Talk about disappointment. This matter aside, the characters are well fleshed out and developed, though; and it has a claustrophobic vibe throughout so these are the strength of the story. The execution was fine, just that it lacks a bit of punch towards the ending in my opinion. Overall it was a good escapism read and I'll be curious of the author's next book.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 8 comments |

Beneath the Stairs by Jennifer Fawcett

Melody

Atria Books | 22 February 2022 | 352 pgs

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

Twenty years ago, 14-year-old Clare and her best friend, Abby, ventured into Octagon House - an abandoned house which no one dare to trespass. There are stories that it is haunted and that the owner had killed his wife and his two young daughters there. Although Clare and Abby came out safe and sound, Abby was somehow affected by the house and she's never the same again.

Now that they're adults, both of them have lost touch over the years. It is only the news of Abby’s attempted suicide that bring them together again. While it was good news that Abby didn't die, she now lies in a coma but what Clare didn't understand is, why at Octagon House of all places? As much as Clare remains fearful of that house, she knows she has to return to that place to find the truth surrounding Abby’s suicide. But what she's learned has left her in doubt and more questions unanswered. For starters, why would Abby had her car filled with gas if she meant to die? And of course, why Octagon House when the place gave her bad memories?

I've to say this book was an engaging read for a debut novel. Atmospheric and filled with suspense, there was never a dull moment throughout my reading journey although there're some parts that seemed repetitive but the mystery drew me in. Aside from the girls' childhood story, there're also two other timelines that go way before that introduce the origin of the house and its owner and the occupants that moved in thereafter. Despite a psychological suspense with bits of paranormal element, I felt the coming-of-age and the emotional depth between the girls are much stronger and better defined. Despite the little shortcoming towards the end, overall I still find it a satisfying read due to the engaging writing style so I'll be curious of the author's next release.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Suspense 9 comments |

Twenty Years Later by Charlie Donlea

Melody

Kensington | 28 December 2021 | 368 pgs

Source: NetGalley

I've enjoyed some of Charlie Donlea's books in the past and have to say his books are hit or miss to me. This latest release, though gripping and intriguing in so many ways, fell short for me due to too many subplots and a bit convoluted with the story direction and motives, thus it slowed down the pace and the intensity but it did pick up towards the end, though.

July, 2001. Bestselling novelist Cameron Young was found dead hanging in his balcony. Forensic investigations indicated that he was murdered first before the hanging. There was enough evidence and motives to point towards his lover, Victoria Ford, as the perpetrator due to her DNA left at the scene. On top of that, they learnt that she'd had an abortion before but Cameron's wife was pregnant thereafter, as the reader will read about Cameron's infidelity as the story progresses. Earlier on the September 11th, Victoria had gone off to visit her lawyer whose office situated at the World Trade Center. Before Victoria could have her case sorted out, tragedy struck as the plane crashed into the building. Like many victims, Victoria never had the chance to live and defend herself and soon her case was left buried and forgotten.

Twenty years later, American Events host Avery Mason decides to unravel the mystery behind Victoria Ford's case after her DNA was found in a tiny bone fragment through scientific technology. The ratings for American Events has been good and has a stellar viewership through Avery's hosting and her daring exploration in various cases so they are sure she'll ace in this latest show as well. But as Avery digs around, she finds out that Victoria had left a phone message to her sister claiming that she's innocent and to exonerate her from a crime she didn't commit. Added to the intrigue is Avery's real identity as a fugitive's daughter and her involvement with Walt Jenkins who was the young investigator who looked into Cameron Young's case. Walt may not be in the squad now, but he's asked to look for Avery's father by his ex-boss as he work with Avery on Cameron's case.

I liked the story well enough, but the direction of the story left me a little baffled. Initially I thought this would be a case about Cameron and Victoria, but the thread was lost after the involvement between Avery and Walt and the attention turns to Avery's identity and Walt's secret assignment. Just as I wondered if Cameron's case would be revealed, it showed up towards the end and the revelation was a surprise and a twisty one. Overall it was an intriguing read if you don't mind the slow start, the various subplots and a murder case revolves around infidelity and kinky sex.

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