St. Martin's Press | September 2018 | 320 pgs
Source: Library
This is the fifth installment of the Amory Ames mystery series. The story opens with our protagonists, Amory and her husband, Milo, encountering an old friend after a night at a theater. Gerard Holloway, former actor and now director, has invited them to the dress rehearsal of a new play he is directing and they have happily accepted. However, when Amory learned that Gerard has cast his mistress, actress Flora Bell, as the lead role in the play, she couldn't help but to feel concern for Gerard's wife, Georgina. After all, they're old friends too.
Amory's concern for Georgina is later cast aside after Gerard told them what has been troubling him lately. Flora Bell has been receiving threatening letters and Gerard thought he could seek their help in finding the mysterious sender; after all the couple had solved a few mysteries in the past. Amory feels torn between her loyalty to Georgina and helping Gerard to investigate but in the end her curiosity gets the better of her; plus she feels the need to bring the culprit to justice.
As Amory digs into the case, she comes to realise that each member of the cast more or less has some issues with Flora and it's difficult to tell if each of them is lying considering acting is their profession. And when the threatening letters turn to murder, Amory and Milo have to find out who the killer is before the final curtain falls.
I've enjoyed reading all the previous installments of this series and this one is no exception. One of the things I like reading about this series is seeing the developments between Amory and Milo. In the first book, we learned that this charming couple faced some marital issues. Milo is known to be a ladies man but so far he hasn't cross the line and has maintained an amicable relationship with Amory. As they work together to solve each mystery their relationship gets better and I'm always curious to read what Milo has in mind during the investigations because he is always so logical and calm while Amory isn't. That is not to say Amory is incompetent but just that their personality and their way of dealing things differ. While I find some parts are repetitive, most often my attention are turned to the cast of characters and how the Ames couple will react when they encounter certain circumstances.
Among other things which I like about this series are the time period and the various settings of each book, with a little touch of Agatha Christie-style so if you like these elements then this series is for you.
© 2019 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.
Doubleday | April 2019 | 368 pgs
Source: Publisher via Edelweiss
During the 1920s in Hartsboro, a woman named Hattie Breckenridge was accused of witchery and was hanged. Hattie was merely a woman who had the ability to foresee the future. When she predicted that there would be a fire, no one believed her until tragedy struck. Her daughter escaped since Hattie predicted it and as a result the community blamed Hattie. No one knew what happened to Hattie's daughter after Hattie was hanged and the case was closed but never forgotten.
Back to its present 2015, Helen and Nate left their comfortable suburban home and their teaching jobs to a rural land in Hartsboro where they build the house of their dreams. While they are excited of the project and their new life, their friends think otherwise. Helen and Nate never look back to their old life and immersed themselves in building their dream house. Then Helen discovers that the property they took over has a dark and violent past and this begins her interest and her intensive research.
On the other end, 14-year-old Olive is in search of her mother, who is believed to have ran off with another man. Olive doesn't want to believe in the rumours; she and her mother are closed and she's always enjoyed hearing stories from her about Hattie and her treasures. Her crossing path with Helen leads them to unearth the history of Hattie's tragic past as well as her descendants and how these three generations of the Breckenridge women had all died amidst suspicion; in which both Helen and Olive would find out the horrifying truths eventually.
Jennifer McMahon's past novel, The Winter People, has left a deep impression on me. It was an atmospheric and a creepy story that blends between the 20th century and the present day. The Invited has the same vibe with a sense of a mystery surrounding the ghost story but what stands out is not only the spooky Hattie but also the stories of her descendants and even Olive, too. The story was mostly narrated between Helen and Olive in the present and a few others of the past but the former took up the most narrative of this book.
And as much as this is a ghost story, it's also very much of a family story which spans from three generations, all involving the Breckenridge women. Not intending to spoil the story, all I could say is I was immensely hooked by the mystery. I didn't expect a twist either but there it is. This will be my second favourite McMahon book with The Winter People as my first. Let's hope her next book will surpass these two.
© 2019 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.
HarperCollins | September 2018 | 416 pgs
Source: Library
Elle Fielding has made her name through the success of her debut novel. Now facing the stress of writing her second book as compelling as her first, she decides that she needs some inspiration and go for a writers retreat while she rents her clifftop house out on Airbnb so she'd earn some money; after all she spent an amount remodelling the house.
However, when she comes home she is shocked to find shattered pieces of her paperweight in her locked writing room. The house doesn't seem right to her either and her suspect immediately turns to the family who rented her house. But her friends think otherwise; they all think that Elle is under stress and that it's all in her head. Elle admits to herself that her second book does make her stressed and anxious, but it couldn't be her creative mind playing with her, could it?
Talk about a page-turner; this book really got me captivated from the beginning till the end. Elle fits the mould of an unreliable character beautifully; half the time I was questioning myself if I could believe her. There are also enough red herrings which had me thinking otherwise so that's what made this such an addicting read. There are also a few aspects which intrigued me - such as the insider look of a publishing author's life as well as the ups and downs of renting out your house on Airbnb.
I know my blurb and my thoughts may be vague but this is one book which you should go in as "blind" as possible. This was a refreshing and a well-crafted psychological thriller which had me thinking with that clever ending. Recommended.
© 2019 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.
Avon | February 2019 | 384 pgs
Source: Library
This is the fifth installment of The Ravenels series and it functions as a standalone.
When young widow Phoebe, Lady Clare, attends a family wedding she didn't expect to meet up with her late husband's old schoolmate. She and Henry were childhood sweethearts and they got married despite his ailments. Phoebe heard a lot of things surrounding West Ravenel through Henry. She knew he was a bully and that Henry had a difficult time at the boarding school. So when Phoebe encounters a dashing man who has a charming way with her young sons, the last person she'd thought of is West but as fate would have it it's truly him.
West has a tarnished past and he's not proud of it. His unhappiness childhood more or less driven him to be an attention-seeker in school; but at that time he didn't realize his behaviours caused misery to some children like Henry. As an adult, his wayward behaviours earned him some reputation in society and at some point he must've gotten tired of everything because he turned his attention to managing properties and agricultural. And the moment he sets his eyes on Phoebe he knew he has to know her, although she seems to be far out of his reach.
Phoebe doesn't want to have anything to do with West, but he seems like a changed person and most of all, he seems to like her sons. Now Phoebe may come across as an aristocratic lady, but she's the daughter of Lord St. Vincent - one whom almost everyone knew to be the devilishly wicked rake in England (he's the hero in the other book, Devil in Winter) and as they get to know more of each other Phoebe knows he is the man that she wants but will they be able to overcome the obstacles of the past?
I haven't read Devil in Winter, but I loved this book! I loved the complexity relationship between Phoebe and West in the beginning and how it gradually turned to mutual attraction as the story progresses. I liked Phoebe for her independence; for not being afraid to say no to a man's work of managing Henry's land even though his cousin takes care of everything. But I liked West more for his humour, his heart for tolerance and most of all his love for Phoebe's children. He's a changed man but there's still a part of him that is tormented from the past and I liked how Phoebe and West complemented each other through the things they'd gone through and how they slowly come to terms with a little push from Phoebe's father.
Although I haven't read all of Lisa Kleypas's books, I've to say I'd enjoyed those that I read and this book left me a warm fuzzy feeling.
© 2019 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.
Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group | November 2018 | 240 pgs
Source: Purchased
This is a buddy read with my blogger friend, Lark. Please visit her blog after reading this and I hope you'll enjoy our buddy read feature.
Despite the title, this book doesn't really classified as a suspense thriller (at least that's what I thought). At its core, this is more of a story about sisterhood and family dynamics set in Nigeria and I liked how it was all executed nicely with some dark humour and satire as its prose.
The book opens with Korede receives a phone call from her younger sister, Ayoola, for her assistance. Ayoola has murdered her boyfriend, Femi, and she needs Korede to help clear up the mess. This isn't the first time Ayoola has killed a person (three ex-boyfriends, to be exact) and it isn't the first time Korede has to do the dirty jobs for her. Although she always make sure no spot is left behind, she couldn't help worrying if there's a day that the police would come after her.
Korede works as a nurse at a hospital. She has a crush with Dr. Tade Otumu and although they've a good working relationship, Korede is still hoping that one day Tade would look at her as a woman than a subordinate. Her hope is dashed when Ayoola came to the hospital to look for her and her presence has caught Tade's attention. Ayoola is an attractive woman who oozes charm and confidence so it is no surprise that Tade begins to take an interest in her. Korede isn't pleased but there is nothing much she could do. With no one to share her frustrations, she knows she can always confide to a comatose patient named Muhtar, including sharing all her secrets about Ayoola's killings and how she took care of everything.
As Tade begins to get serious with Ayoola, Korede wonders if he would get hurt eventually given Ayoola's history with men. Korede doesn't want to doubt her sister; but her claims of self-defence and her nonchalance make her wonder otherwise. Still, she is her sister and blood is thicker than water, right? But she likes Tade, too. So, what's a girl to do?
This book was such an addicting read. As mentioned, this story is written in satirical prose and I think readers would either love it or hate it. I liked the style; plus the chapters are short and made it a fast read. Story-wise, I was totally engrossed with the two sisters' banter. They may be different in many ways but yet they share a deep bond since young, which started from their father's abuse towards them. Korede is someone whom I think has a strong sense of responsibility in her blood, both at work and with people. Thus, it is interesting to see her dilemma here. Her lone conservations with the comatose Muhtar show a part of her vulnerable side; yet it also portrays her compassionate side as she's the only one who talks to him. Overall this is an interesting novel about sisterhood, family and a case of character study.
Our Q&As on the book (with my answers to Lark's questions):
1) Ayoola may have stabbed Femi, but what, if any, responsibility for his death does Korede share?
Hmm. This is quite a difficult question to answer. All I can say is, I think Korede's strength and weakness is that she cares too much for Ayoola. Korede may not agree to some of her thoughts and actions, but in a way she acts like Ayoola's "accomplice" because she doesn't want her to be in trouble. After all, they're sisters. Plus, what they'd experienced in the past had bonded them.
2) Do you think Ayoola knew how Korede really felt about Dr. Tade Otumu? And if so, why did she continue the relationship?
Korede may be subtle in regards to her feelings and how she reacts towards Tade, but the way she talks about him in front of Ayoola is quite clear so I think Ayoola is aware of it. Ayoola is an attractive woman and she knew it. I think she continues with the relationship with Tade because Korede remains passive all the time. Plus, Ayoola loves the attention.
© 2019 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.
Doubleday | February 2019 | 304 pgs
Source: Library
Christine Butcher has a happy family with her husband and her young daughter. Working as a temp in a supermarket chain has allowed her a glimpse of Mina Appleton as a person other than the role of the store's top management. Through her meticulous work, she then caught the attention of Mina and the latter wants her to be her personal assistant. Christine has admired her capabilities from afar so she is thrilled to accept the offer.
However, Mina's foresight of the store is different from her father's. While her father believes in fair trade and building connections with the farmers and suppliers, Mina's vision is more towards profits first and building an image to the store. Needless to say, their opinions clash and with her father's retirement approaches soon, Mina begins to take things into her own hands and forego promises and contracts which her father had first made. Christine, being Mina's PA, has chosen to close one eye (or both) considering her professionalism and her loyalty towards Mina. Her devotion to work gradually taken its toll on her marriage but Christine feels she couldn't say no to Mina.
So for twenty years Christine devotes all her attention and life in assisting Mina. Throughout these years she has witnessed several discrepancies surrounding Mina's work attitudes and her secrets as well; and she is good in making things look good (or right) on behalf of Mina until a case which take both of them to court.
Part psychological thriller and part court drama, The Secretary will question readers about work ethics and the fine line between obedience and obsession. The first half was a slow burn; as the focus was on the relationship between Mina and Christine. Mina is a tough boss, and I marvelled at Christine's ability in performing her job at top notch level under various circumstances. The second half was more onto the court procedural and Christine's emotions after learning that she has somehow gotten involved in Mina's plans and how she'd react to the consequences.
Truth be told, I didn't know what to think of Christine. She was a devoted and a diligent employee; but I didn't agree with her thoughts on putting her family second and not saying no to Mina at times. And I didn't know what to think of that ending either; for all I know that conclusion will be staying in my mind for a while.
© 2019 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.
Harlequin | November 2018 | 384 pgs
Source: Library
There was a phase which I read nothing but romance genre; and Lori Foster is one of my favourite authors among this genre. I remember devouring her books once they were out; and joining her forum so that I could get the book news as well as discussing her books with other readers as well. Those were the days... and even though I hardly participate in any of the reading forums now, reading this book has brought back many memories.
Onto the book: When Mary Daniels and Brodie Crews first met, their first impression of each other is tainted by stereotypes and prejudice. Mary wants to look for a courier for her next assignment and her employer has sent her to Brodie's address. Her elderly boss is a collector of all sorts and Mary's job is to acquire the items on his behalf. Brodie's job is simple; all he has to do is to chauffeur her around and to ensure that all things run smoothly. And during the trips they've travelled so far together, he finds her reserved and hardly talk about herself, making herself clear that what goes between them is strictly business. This leave Brodie perplexed and curious to find out the real her behind that stiff demeanour.
Mary, on the other end, thinks Brodie is nothing but a huge distraction. It's not like she hates Brodie; on the contrary she is afraid of getting too close to someone. After all, her past has sort of robbed off her faith in people and also what others thought of her. Although she keeps her emotional distance from Brodie, she couldn't help but to notice of his protectiveness around her wherever they go. Brodie believes both of them have chemistry and that Mary will drop her defense against him given some time and his patience and concern. As they go about their tasks, they soon come across a deal which will threaten their safety and this time round Brodie won't allow Mary to keep her distance from him, physically or emotionally.
Right, so this is the first book of "Road to Love" series and although this is very much about Brodie's and Mary's story I felt I've known the Crews family already. Lori Foster has a knack of creating fleshed out characters and sizzling romance and in this story I liked the exchanges between Brodie and Mary and how Brodie exude his charm not only through his alpha physique but his gentle protectiveness towards Mary as well. The only drawback is I find some parts to be dragging but other than this it was overall an enjoyable read. The next book of this series, Slow Ride, is Brodie's brother's story and given the brief introduction of him in this book, I'm already curious of him as he is so much different from Brodie.
© 2019 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.
William Morrow | January 2019 | 352 pgs
Source: Library
Before you pick up this book, please make sure you've nothing important on your schedule because trust me, you wouldn't be able to tear yourself away from this once you started reading it.
The story opens with our protagonist, Darby Thorne, bracing the blizzard in the Colorado Rockies on her way to seeing her dying mother. With the roads impassable and her cellphone battery low, she is forced to wait out the storm at a remote highway rest stop. Although there is no cellphone reception, but at least there are a few vending machines and a coffee maker. On top of these, she’s not alone and there are four people there who are stranded like her.
Darby gets to know a little of these four strangers after a brief introduction. Desperate to find a reception to contact her family, she decides to head out of the rest stop to try her luck and on her way back she discovers something horrific. In the back of the van parked next to her car is a little girl locked in what looked like a dog cage. During that terrifying moment after her discovery, Darby knew that one of those four strangers is a kidnapper and that she has to save the girl at all costs.
No Exit is a fast paced and an adrenaline-driven kind of story which will make your heart race as the pages fly by. Reading this book feels like having a cinematic experience because you could almost visualise the situations and the portrayal of the characters' characteristic as well as their emotions through the author's descriptive writing. What also makes this a compelling read is the events happen and unfold in a span of one evening and that kind of anticipation can be nerve-racking. I can't say I've a favourite character here, but Darby is one heck of a heroine. She is no superwoman, but her fighting spirit and her sense of justice and survival earned much respect from this reader. This is a story about the good versus the evil; and the psychotic mind games between the hunter and the hunted. I can't wait for this author's next release already.
© 2019 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.
William Morrow | March 2019 | 320 pgs
Source: Publisher via Edelweiss
I've not read all the books by Carol Goodman but so far I've enjoyed those which I'd read. Her books usually feature a cast of intriguing characters with an atmospheric setting and this book is no exception.
Alice and ten-year-old Oren are on the run. Despite the raging snowstorm and with nowhere to hide, Alice knew she has to run away from the abusive relationship she has with Davis not only to save herself but for Oren as well. The last call she's made is to a social worker and she's promised Alice that she'd arrange someone to pick them up to a local shelter.
Mattie, a woman in her fifties who lives by herself in the middle of the woods, has been the one who's given the task by the help hotline for circumstances similar to Alice's. Mattie is experienced and is well connected; plus she's always available for a late-night pick up considering she's alone and her only companion is her dog. So Mattie's responsibility is to bring Alice and Oren to a local shelter and let them handle things from there. But an incident at a convenience shop and the bad weather made her bring them home for the night. Mattie's act may be out of kindness and compassion, but she didn't tell them that Oren reminds her of her little brother, Caleb, who died thirty years ago.
However, Mattie isn't the only one who's withholding elements of the truth. Alice has her own secrets as well and as the snowstorm whirled around them, binding them within the small compound, each woman's past come unraveling and they've to face what they've gone through in order to be free and alive.
After reading the blurb of The Night Visitors, I'd had a few assumptions how this story direction is going to be, but after reading further those initial thoughts became something else as somewhere along the line there's a hint of supernatural element mixes in this thriller. This little surprise didn't really disconcert me as I know the author sometimes do add in such element in her books which I think is intensifying in another whole new level (and on top of the gothic and creepy atmosphere settings which she usually love to write). As of characterisation, Mattie surprised me in many ways while Alice is hard to grasp at times. Her mistrust in people feels real and believable considering the abusive relationship she's had with Oren's father. And Oren is a smart boy; his love for Star Wars will bring a smile to every SW fans. Overall this isn't my favourite Carol Goodman book but I liked it well enough to recommend it.
© 2019 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.
Penguin Publishing Group | January 2019 | 384 pgs
Source: Library
The story opens with Seraphine Mayes uncovering a family photograph while she's going through her late father's belongings. Seraphine's father, Dominic, fell while fixing the roof; leaving his three grown up children behind. Seraphine has lots of memories of her childhood living at Summerbourne, their family estate on the Norfolk coast. After all, she and her twin brother, Danny, were born in the middle of summer there.
Looking back at the photo she's holding, she realises that something is amiss. The photo was taken on the day the twins were born; and it showed their late mother, seated between her husband and their older brother, Edwin. However, she was captured holding just one baby instead of two. Seraphine has never seen her mother; from what she knew their mother threw herself from the cliffs just within hours of their birth. No one really knows what happened that day. In order to uncover the mystery surrounding the photo as well as their mother's death, Seraphine decided that the best person she could ask is Edwin's au pair, Laura. But first, she needs to track down Laura since there hasn't been any news of her since the tragedy at Summerbourne. And the mystery soon gets more complicated as Seraphine finds someone leaving her warning signs to stop her investigations.
This first novel by Emma Rous sucked me in right from the beginning till the end with a cast of intriguing characters and a well developed plot. And, I've no idea what to categorise this book as it combines mystery with domestic noir. As readers, we learn about this story through Seraphine's and Laura's eyes set in present 2017 and 1991 respectively. Both perspectives and timelines are an interesting read, but I was more drawn to Laura's voice. Laura works as an au pair partly because she wants to prove to her mother and her mother's partner that she could be independent while earning some money for her studies. She has no experience as an au pair but she's well liked by Ruth and young Edwin. And the more she gets to know the family she soon realises that Summerbourne not only has history but secrets as well. And speaking of Summerbourne, I've to say it is a character on its own. I was enamoured by its coastal beauty and the countryside atmosphere. Although this is very much about the mystery surrounding the missing twin in the picture, actually I felt it is much more on the family dynamics and the relationship between the Mayes' family and Laura. An impressive first novel and I'm definitely will be on the look out for the author's next release.
© 2019 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.
Amazon Publishing | October 2018 | 300 pgs
Source: Library
FBI special agent Clarke Sinclair has been searching for serial killer, Simon Cross, for years. Simon has his "rules" when it comes to his victims. First off, they've to be redheaded women. And as a tease to Clarke and her partner, Sam, he'd send pictures he'd travelled across the country as "clues"; but of course he's always a few steps ahead and as if to goad them, he'd only target for his next victim until Clarke discovers the previous one. Clark is still searching for his latest victim, Anna, when news that another girl has gone missing; this time around she's a blonde instead of a redhead.
Clarke knew it's Simon's work and that his MO has changed considering that the boyfriend of the blonde woman has gave them an account of a man who'd approached them before Bess disappeared thereafter. Needless to say, Clarke is perplexed over the change and it seems like the clues he continues to send is messing up her mind. As Clarke races against time to track him down, she soon realises that the closer she gets to the truth, the deeper she falls into his trap and that what's all happened may end it with her.
Ah. What to say about this book? I've mixed reactions with it so let me start off by saying what appealed to me first. I liked the author's writing style. I also have to say I'm a fan of multiple narratives (just not too many to confuse me) and an alternative timeline so this book had my attention because it has three narrators and the timeline alternating between the 90s and 2018. The past tells the story of Simon Cross when he was merely an eleven-year-old boy and his relationship with a seven-year-old girl called Adelaide. They were both foster children to a couple. The present 2018 was focused more on the banter between Clarke and Sam, and not to mention their tracking of Simon.
Onto my other reaction. I guess I wasn't that connected with Clarke despite she was an intriguing character. I didn't mind her flaws, but she seemed a little self-loathe and carried too much emotional baggage. Her banter with Sam showed a side of their mentor/mentee relationship, but it became repetitive at times. The twist and the ending didn't really surprise me, but I thought it was still good. I'd still recommend this book if you go for intriguing characterisation and a layered story.
© 2019 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.
Hodder & Stoughton | October 2018 | 160 pgs
Source: Library
This latest novella by Stephen King revolves around a man (who has an unknown mysterious condition) and his resolve in bringing a small town together despite the residents' prejudice and some differences.
On surface, Scott Carey looks like any other ordinary man who has weight issue. But what other people wouldn't know is he's been losing weight constantly and no matter how heavy or light his clothings are, his weight always remains the same. What most terrifying (and worryingly) is, his weight will decline as the days go but his size will look the same.
Scott consulted his neighbour, Bob Ellis, who's a retired doctor about his strange condition and the latter has absolutely no idea what it is. He suggested Scott to go for a thorough checkup but he refused, stating that he wouldn't want to be scrutinised like some weird creatures. Scott promises to monitor his condition though, but it seems his condition is not getting any better.
Aside from this, Scott has issues with a lesbian couple next door whose dog regularly drops his business on his lawn. Missy and Deidre own a restaurant but business isn't that good. Scott has no problem with Missy, but Deidre is another matter. She is blunt and cold; and no matter how nicely Scott tells her about the dogs' problems, she appears defensive and the case remains unresolved. Scott also notices that the residents shun and avoid the couple like a plague and this gives him the thought that perhaps he can try to dismiss all this prejudice and unhappiness (including his own) considering his days to zero pound is nearing and he has nothing to lose anyway.
Elevation was a short read yet it was moving and inspiring in a way. The story is simple and the characters are mostly one-dimensional (considering it's a novella) but the more I read, I felt a bit of connection with Scott. I felt his worry, his frustrations and his hopelessness with his condition, but I also felt his determination in wanting to change the mindset of the residents; including his own as well as the couple's opinion of him. Deidre was another interesting character; she may seemed like an annoying character from the start but I liked it that she doesn't care what others think of her, even when it seemed the whole community is going against her and her business suffered at one stage. Aside from the prejudice, there's a bit of political underlying tone but I thought they add some entertainment to the tension among the community. Overall, it was a quick read and though this is not King's best, it radiates a feel-good vibes without the heaviness of the respective topics.
© 2019 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.
Bantam Press | December 2018 | 320 pgs
Source: Library
"Rumours are like seeds, scattered on the wind. There's no telling where they'll land, but land they will. Settling in cracks and crevices, the roots take hold. The seeds sprout. It doesn't matter if they're true or false. The more times they're spoken, the faster and stronger they grow. Like beanstalks, waving in the air." ~ Pg 74
Single mum Joanna Critchley and her six-year-old son, Alfie, live in a small town in Flinstead. Joanna works as an estate agent and although she and Alfie's father are cities apart, she sometimes wonders if things would be different if they are married. Joanna rarely mix around with other mothers when bringing Alfie to school, partly because she has no time to gossip around but most of all, she doesn't want people to be curious of her status.
Then on one occasion she happens to hear a casual comment from one mother. There is a rumour about a notorious child killer is living in their small town under a new identity. Forty-eight years ago, ten-year-old Sally McGowan stabbed a five-year-old boy. The news shocked the nation and though she was believed to come from a shattered family with an abusive father, not all are willing to forgive and forget the crime she committed.
With the years passed and no photos of her exist since her release as a young woman, no one really knows about her whereabouts until this rumour arises. Now Joanna doesn't want to be sucked into this gossipy circle, but Alfie is having trouble socialising in school and Joanna knows one way is to mingle with the mothers' group so hopefully this will help Alfie to be closer with their children. Joanna intends to forget about that rumour, but a conversation at a little book club she's in had made her brought up the issue and soon Joanna finds it has got out of hand as the thought began to take root in everyone's mind. Did Sally McGowan really exist among them under a new identity? If the rumour is true, then who is she and how far will Joanna go to protect her family when she realises what it is she's unleashed?
The Rumour was one addictive and an unputdownable book which had my attention from the beginning till the end (also a reminder how scary a rumour can be and how it'd hurt people, no matter the purpose is intentional or not). Throughout the book, the reader get to see through things from Joanna's perspective, but I felt there are also many points are seen through a mother's perspective generally. The fear and worry, as well as the care and concern a mother has for a child are all well depicted not only between Joanna and Alfie but Joanna and her mother as well. Onto the plot, there are enough red herrings that will make you suspect anyone; and as if that's not enough the author throw in not one but two twists which had me shaking my head in wonder at the outcome. A great read for a debut novel and I'll be looking forward to the author's next release.
© 2019 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.
G.P. Putnam's Sons | March 2019 | 368 pgs
Source: Publisher via Edelweiss
"There is a stranger inside everyone, an animal that doesn't think but responds only to its instincts and impulses." ~ Chapter 6
Seventeen-year-old Kate Bennet has no recollection of what happened on that fateful night or why she is kept isolated in a cabin in a remote beach town in New Zealand. Jim, the man who's with her, has claimed she's done something terrible back home in Melbourne and the reason why they're running away is so that no one could trace them and connect her with what happened that night. He had even chopped off her hair bald and given her a new identity - Evie.
Through fragments of Kate's shattered memories, all she remembers is she has a best friend named Willow and that she's in a relationship with Thom. What happened in between remains fuzzy and although Jim said he'll help her fill in the blanks as the days go, Kate couldn't help but to wonder if it's all lies since he's also been feeding her with pills, saying it's for her own good. Is Jim really claims who he is - a benefactor or is he a captor with a mysterious agenda? Or is it Kate that is the unstable one after what happened that night?
This debut novel by J.P. Pomare is nothing I've read from the other psychological suspense genre. Slow burned and consisted of unreliable and a few unlikeable characters, I've to admit I was quite frustrated by the first half of the story as it seemed to be getting nowhere (and oh the teenage angst before something nasty happened). However, it is for good reason since it is focused much on the characters development and the interactions between Kate and Jim also leave the reader wandering about their credibility. The shifting between the "Before" and "After" is another common style in allowing the reader to see perspectives from a different time frame as the story progresses and perhaps leaving some clues for the reader to guess but in this one I wasn't expecting the big twist until it hit me towards the end. A riveting novel and will make you question about the fragility of one's mind and memory and how far one would go to protect the secrets.
© 2019 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.
Lake Union Publishing | September 2018 | 364 pgs
Source: Library
The year is 1850, New York. Cora Lee, born out of wedlock to a wealthy socialite and a nameless immigrant, is no ordinary girl like the others. Aside from her mixed lineage, she was born with two hearts. She was raised by her late mother's cousin who had then passed, with only her maid Leah as companions. Since a girl, she was told not to disclose her "ailment" to anyone. Even now as the only female resurrectionist in New York, she would disguise herself as a man in dusk for procuring bodies afflicted with strange anomalies. After all, there are anatomists who are willing to pay exorbitant sums for such specimens, either for medical studies or displaying them for the public like "treasures" in museums.
However, Cora doesn't do it entirely for money. Like those deceased with strange anomalies, she knew she herself is a prize to fellow resurrectionists and anatomists alike and her profession not only help her in disguising her identity but also keep her in the loop when the jobs are concerned. Despite the news of the girl with two hearts is a legend, Cora knows she has to be extra vigilant and make sure that the legend remains as it is.
As there is a rise in bodies and competitions among resurrectionists, Cora couldn't help but to suspect if the deceased are murdered instead of passing due to their ailments. To complicate matters, she finds herself attracted to Theodore Flint, a medical student who is interested in learning the trade. But of course Flint doesn't know of her double identity; he knows Cora as a lady but he is more familiar with her "twin" Jacob Lee; the other identity Cora took both for protection as well as her resurrectionist role. As a series of murders unfolds, Cora doesn't know if she could trust anyone, including Flint.
I've no idea how to articulate my thoughts without giving too much of the story away. I loved this book. It has a combination of historical, mystery, romance and a medical aspect of the human anomalies and the likes. While I loved the time period and the setting, what really stands out to me is the author's writing and the characterisations. The characters are fleshed out and the more I read about them, the more I felt for them. I enjoyed knowing more about the role of a resurrectionist, despite the mobidness and all. Also, women physicians back then aren't as recognised as their male counterparts and this gender inequality is well captured in the story based on one character's situation. Overall what I liked most about this book is Cora - an impossible girl who is brave, opiniated and accepting herself as who she is.
© 2019 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.
Chatto & Windus | January 2018 | 320 pgs
Source: Library
I liked the title of this book, but the subjects covered and the story are both sad and heartbreaking.
Set alternatively between the time period 1943 and 2011, this story follows two sisters who are separated by World War II and their struggle in living their life amid the difficult times. Sixteen-year-old Hana comes from a family of haenyeo and like other women of the island community in Jeju, they earn their living as female divers. Because of their profession, they're usually strong willed and determined and young Hana is no exception. One day while diving she sees a Japanese soldier heading to her younger sister, Emi, where she guards the day's catch on the beach. Remembering her mother's words about not getting caught by the soldiers, Hana swims as fast as she could to the shore. She managed to divert the soldier's attention to Emi, but unfortunately she did so by sacrificing herself as the bait. And this begins Hana's harrowing journey as a "comfort woman" in a Japanese military brothel; she is one of many girls and women who are taken and forced into sexual slavery by the Imperial Japanese army.
Fast forward to 2011, Seoul. Emi is an elderly woman who is blessed with children and grandchildren. However, there is never a single day that she wouldn't think of her beloved elder sister and think of the sacrifice she'd made so many years ago. None of her family knew about her painful past; and till present she still harbours the hope that she'd be able to reunite with Hana one day, though it seem impossible given the time span.
I've learnt a bit about haenyeo and even seen a few of them in action when I'd the chance to visit Jeju a few years back. Most of the women are fit and agile despite they're at least in their fifties and above. I was in awed of their physique and most of all, the determination and the perseverance they radiated. Reading about Hana reminded me of them; and I could imagine how those traits reflected in our young Hana when she tried to protect Emi. The author captured the characters' emotions beautifully; and she has done a great job in balancing fiction and history in this book. There are some scenes which are horrific and gruesome, yet I feel it isn't right to omit them either and that it is to acknowledge what they'd gone through would never be forgotten.
© 2019 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.
William Morrow | March 2019 | 320 pgs
Source: Publisher via Edelweiss
I've enjoyed most of Peter Swanson's books so far and when I knew he has a new book out, I know I've to read it.
Henrietta (Hen) and her husband, Lloyd, have moved into a new house outside of Boston where they could enjoy a quiet life and their workplace being nearby. Hen is an illustrator for children's books and although she suffers from bipolar disorder and depression, her condition is well controlled with medication. Life is good to Hen and Lloyd until they met their new neighbour, Matthew and Mira Dolamore.
Hen is happy to know her neighbour but that feeling quickly changes after she spotted a fencing trophy in Matthew's office. Two years ago a young man named Dustin Miller was murdered and a fencing trophy was found missing in his house. It is no wonder Hen is suspicious because she thought the trophy in Matthew's office looks similar to Dustin's. On top of it, Matthew teaches at Sussex Hall and that's where Dustin went to high school. Hen has been following the news of Dustin's murder since then despite there isn't any answer or resolution to the case so when she sees the trophy it sets the obsession in her once again. And so this begins her task in observing and trailing Matthew until one night what she did has caught Matthew's attention. Could Matthew be the killer, or is it Hen's sickness acting up again? After all, she'd hurt someone back during her college days to prove the other was guilty and does this mean this is another one of her psychotic episodes?
Reading this book was like riding a roller coaster; I could never anticipate when the next twist would be until it hit you off guard. One of the author's strengths is his characterisations are usually fleshed out and the way the story is executed; allowing the reader to be fully invested into the story even though you've some doubts about the direction it is leading you on. The foreboding atmosphere of this story was intensive but alas, I wasn't pleased with the outcome. For this I blamed it on my own expectation and that the direction I'd in mind differ from what it is of the story. Nevertheless I'd an enjoyable reading experience and I'd still recommend this to anyone who love a suspenseful read.
© 2019 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.
St. Martin's Press | August 2018 | 320 pgs
Source: Library
In her first installment of the Noodle Shop Mystery series (Death by Dumpling), Vivien Chien introduces us Lana Lee; an Eurasian woman who helps her family run the Ho-Lee noodle restaurant at an Asian Village in Cleveland, Ohio. When a man was found dead after consuming their noodle house's shrimp dumplings, Lana knew it was no accident considering almost everyone knew of his allergy to seafood. Worst of all, Lana was the one who delivered the food to him so she had to find out the truth surrounding his death. During the investigative course, she met detective Adam Trudeau and although they didn't admit it, they've some feelings for each other.
In this second installment, Lana is left in charge of the restaurant while her parents left for Taiwan for an emergency family matter. She has had plans to look for a job and even landed herself an interview, and it seems she has no choice but to remain where she is. Meanwhile, she has gone on a few dates with Adam and wonder if they're officially a couple. These are what has been occupying her mind until her friend and her new husband are found dead in their souvenir shop, which is just next door to their noodle restaurant. Once again, Lana finds herself in the midst of the mystery.
Lana knew she shouldn't meddle into the case; after all Adam did mention about his concern especially if it involves her safety but Lana knew there is more than meets the eye. She knew the couple wasn't the suicidal type and on top of it they were newlyweds so there is no reason for them doing so despite the speculations. So to find out the truth surrounding her friend’s death, Lana decides she should look around for more information. It is also at this time that two women began to show up respectively; each claiming to be the ex-wife of the dead man and they're here to settle the shop property. While Lana is skeptical about their statements, she soon finds something more about her friend’s husband which makes this case more mysterious and complicated.
I was pleased to say that I was captivated by this series so far and Lana continues to intrigue me with her wits and her straightforward demeanour. I'm also interested to find out more about her relationship with Adam as the series go and hopefully the third installment will see both of them has moved on to the next level.
As for the mystery plot, it wasn't fast paced as compared with thrillers as it focused more on the characters (developments) but the mystery still keep you guessing till the end. Overall it was a satisfying read and I wonder what's in store for her next installment, Murder Lo Mein.
© 2019 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.
Sphere | June 2018 | 384 pgs
Source: Library
Three Little Lies, in a nutshell, is a story between three friends, secrets and deceptions and how the past caught up to them.
Ten years ago, Ellen and Karina were best friends. Their life revolved around nothing but school and gossips, until the Monktons moved into their neighbourhood. The two girls were fascinated by their bohemian lifestyle, but most of all they were fascinated by the two boys, Daniel and Nicholas, as well as Sasha, the girl who looked about their age. The three girls became friends later, and were often invited to the Monktons' for parties. Karina had a crush on the older boy, Daniel; although the girls knew it would be nothing more than just friends. Until something happened on a fateful night that it not only tear Karina's life apart but Daniel's as well.
In present time 2017, Ellen and Sasha are working adults and they share an apartment together. They've lost touch with Karina and Daniel became a past. When Sasha has gone missing without a trace, Ellen fears the worst. Is her disappearance got to do with that fateful night so many years ago? Worst still, the police won't take Ellen's words seriously as they thought Sasha's disappearance is nothing more than a decision considering Sasha has a past of disappearing without a word. But Ellen knew Sasha and believes this is something out of the norm; but as she digs further she couldn't help but to think of the memories that held them together ten years ago. What's with the Monktons all those time and why would Sasha disappear without a trace?
I've heard that the author's first book, Friend Request, has received some good reviews and although I haven't read that book, I decided to try with this latest book of hers since it was available at the library. Perhaps I'd jumped into this with a high expectation, but I wasn't swept away by the story. The author's writing was good though, and together with the fast pacing I was able to tear through the book easily. I think the focus was much on the character developments and although this isn't the issue, I couldn't fathom the decisions made by some characters and thought things would've been different if they all aren't being swayed by reckless emotions. The twist wasn't too hard to guess, but that's probably because the suspect involved only a few people. Despite my lukewarm reaction to this, I'm still curious with Friend Request so I'll read it at some point.
© 2019 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.
Posts
