Melody's Reading Corner

Melody

Orion | April 2019 | 320 pgs

Source: Library

MJ Cross has written the Carter Blake series under another name as Mason Cross. While I haven't read that series, this stand-alone has given me an idea how his writing is. And it turns out his style is precise and engaging; and the execution has a "cinematic" vibe to it.

The book opens with our protagonist, Jenny Bowen, boarding the Caledonian Sleeper back to her old home in Scotland. After finding out her husband's infidelity and following the recent death of her father, she decided that leaving London might give her some peace after all the things she's been through. On the way to her cabin, she encounters a woman who's next to her cabin and even helps to pick up a stuffed animal to a young girl whom she assumes to be the woman's daughter. They didn't talk much and Jenny left for her cabin.

On her way to the toilet in the dim early morning light, Jenny discovers the woman's door is ajar and on closer look she is shocked to discover the woman is already dead. And that's not all, there's no sign of the little girl and as a standard procedure the cops are called in to make a thorough investigation. DI Gregory Porter has decided to rule it as a drug overdose case after checking the woman's past record and although Sergeant Mike Fletcher has his doubts, he couldn't find any new evidence that pointed otherwise. Despite the police closing the case, Jenny is adamant that something is amiss and goes out her way in pursuing the truth. Eventually she discovers something and approaches Sergeant Fletcher for another investigation. Now Mike and Porter's personality clashes and the latter has no intention of opening the case again but Jenny's account has Mike very curious so he decides to help her with the investigations unofficially.

As I mentioned, the author's prose has a "cinematic" vibe so I could visualise the events happened in this story as well as the rapport between Jenny and Mike. While I admired Jenny's determination and meticulous demeanour, it was Mike who held my reading interest because he is willing to believe in Jenny, as simple as that. His willingness to help Jenny unofficially has earned him some points in my impression and I rooted for them all the way. As for the plot and the mystery surrounding the dead woman, all I can say is there are layers and layers of intrigue and just when you thought you've some things figured out, another thing arises. I'd more or less figured a rating in mind before finishing the book until one outcome totally astounded me (thus 4 stars - not a fault but purely a personal expectation). Still, it was all a very engaging read and I'll definitely keep a look out for his other books.

© 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.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Crime Thriller 4 comments |

Drama Reviews: Doctor Prisoner | The Light in Your Eyes

Melody

Doctor Prisoner

Synopsis from DramaBeans:

Doctor Prisoner centers around an ace doctor in a university hospital’s emergency care center, a skilled professional who treats his patients with full devotion and without discrimination. However, his medical license gets suspended as a result of a medical malpractice incident that arises when the hospital board director causes a ruckus. He then gets his certificate as a medical internist and applies to work at a prison, where his plan is to cozy up to all the bigshots there—business tycoons, celebrities caught for doing drugs, sports stars guilty of gambling—and to win allies, with the ultimate goal of getting revenge against the hospital that ousted him. To do so, he’ll get rid of the existing prison chief doctor and claim the spot for himself.

My thoughts:

I don't know about you, but I think there's something about medical thriller that attracts us despite some scary facts or uncomfortable scenes that make us think about our bodies and how fragile life can be. I think one reason I love watching medical related dramas is how great a doctor is and seeing how they could save a person's live through their skillful hands and watching Doctor Prisoner allows me to see the passionate side of a doctor called Na Yi Je (starring Nam Goong Min) and his sense of justice when dealing with all kinds of despicable people and their conspiracies. There are so many baddies here that I lost count, and no one is to be trusted, including Dr Na himself since you don't know what he's thinking and what games he might be playing. I think one of the highlights is watching him "creating an illness" to one or two prisoners so they can request for acquittal to justify the few cases he's fighting against the baddies (yes, these group of people are more or less connected) and while it seems a bit far-fetched and doesn't sound morally reprehensible, I can see how his points come about from another perspective. Overall this was an exciting and an intriguing drama and I recommend it if you love a good thriller. (4.5 stars)

The Light in Your Eyes

Synopsis from AJ at MyDramaList:

A girl who can travel through time meets a man who lives a torpid life. Kim Hye Ja is a bright and positive 26-year-old woman who wishes to become an announcer. One day, she gains the ability to exploit time and from there, is involved in a complicated timeline as a 70-year-old. Lee Joon Ha is a man who wishes to become a reporter. He worked hard to reach his goal, but now throws away his time and lives lethargically. When the two opposites meet in a complicated time, a love story begins to unfold.

My thoughts:

I've to say I didn't expect a romance time travel story would be that complicated (mind boggling to say the least) but you've to go in "blind" as you watch this. Do not read and analyse too much from the blurb(s) because it isn't what you're thinking in the first place. It is a slow-burn at times but the wait is worth it and will leave you gasping and muttering "What?" towards the end. I think this is my vaguest review I've ever written but I can say the message behind this is a thought-provoking one. (4 stars)

Labels: 4 stars, 4.5 stars, Fantasy, Korean drama, Medical Thriller, Romance 2 comments |

Circle of Shadows by Evelyn Skye

Melody

HarperCollins Publishers | January 2019 | 464 pgs

Source: Library

In the kingdom of Kichona where Taigas warriors are viewed as an honorable position; their jobs are to serve and to protect the kingdom. 18-year-old Sora and Daemon are both apprentice Taigas warriors who are trained in magic and fighting arts and they're geminas; meaning they're bound by mental connection. Each warrior has their own specialty and while Sora can move stealthily and hurl throwing stars with accuracy, Daemon can win any physical fight blindfolded and with an arm tied around his back.

With their graduation fast approaching, Sora and Daemon are looking forward to their assignments and prove that they're worthy of their rank. Kichona has been stable after the Blood Rift Rebellion many years ago and while it's a good thing, that also means the chance of making their mark might prove difficult, until they encounter a camp of soldiers (that looked a bit like Taigas warriors) behaving strangely. Sora and Daemon decided to prove their worth by observing the group and soon find the horrific truth that will threaten not only their safety but also might tear the entire kingdom apart.

I've to say Circle of Shadows has a fascinating background of a fantasy story, whatwith the combination of a magic element and fighting arts set in a kingdom filled with a mythology of Zomuri, their god of glory, and the paradise of Evermore in which he'd grant one's wish of this paradise on earth should he sacrifice two hundred Kichonans lives in the Ceremony of Two Hundred Hearts. As much as the blurb is promising, I found the execution and the writing style to be a letdown (too much repetition and is a little choppy). The only thing which kept me reading is the characters but then the developments and the world building aren't that strong enough to leave an impression (perhaps it's the first book?). I'm not sure if I'd continue with this series since I read and skimmed here and there. However, there are mixed reviews of this book on Goodreads so perhaps this simply isn't a good fit to my reading taste.

Labels: 3 stars, Book Review, Fantasy, Young Adult 4 comments |

Polaris Rising by Jessie Mihalik

Melody

HarperCollins Publishers | February 2019 | 448 pgs

Source: Purchased

I rarely read Sci-Fi; and I tend to be picky with this genre but this book had my attention throughout so that says a lot how I felt about this book.

Princess Ada von Hasenberg is the fifth child of six children in the House of von Hasenberg. The von Hasenberg is one of the three High Houses among the space universe and they are officially ruled by the Royal Consortium. Each High House has a Councillor who wield the power and occasionally the three High Councillors will meet for political reasons. In its present case, Ada's father has arranged Ada to wed Richard from House Rockhurst but Ada has her own plans. To escape from the marriage, she has been on the run for two years until she is caught and is thrown into a cell with the notorious Marcus Loch. Known as the devil of Fornax Zero, Loch is known to have killed his entire chain of command during the Fornax Rebellion and he is a wanted man by the Consortium.

However, during the return to Earth their ship is attacked by House Rockhurst's battle cruiser and Ada knew if Richard captures her she'd be used as a political pawn and nothing else. Being constrained in a small cell her only hope is Loch so she strikes a deal with him to help her escape with compensation. Although she isn't sure if Loch is to be trusted, she's willing to take a risk especially when her freedom is at stake.

Polaris Rising is the first book of a trilogy and what a fun adventure-packed book it is! I loved everything here - the characters, the premise and yes, there's even a romance element in it. Ada is one kick-ass heroine; and Loch is one character who will grow on you the more you read about him. There's some history behind his fugitive persona so I was intrigued by it as well. And the Sci-Fi elements are balanced in a way that there aren't too many related stuff that might bore or confuse you; but I've to say I was quite fascinated by the world-building and the scientific technologies (e.g. nanobots for the prestige that seem like a superb recovery system and FTL drives that is an invaluable source to the universe, etc) alongside the adventures. The next installment (Aurora Blazing) will feature Ada's older sister and their House's head security and I can't wait to read their story!

Labels: 4.5 stars, Adventure Thriller, Book Review, Romance, Sci-Fi 6 comments |

The Shape of Lies by Rachel Abbott

Melody

Black Dot Publishing | January 2019 | 378 pgs

Source: Library

I picked up this book not knowing that this is actually the 8th installment of DCI Tom Douglas series but still it works well as a stand-alone.

Anna is happily married with two children. She is also a head teacher at a primary school and it seems she has quite a blissful life. But what everyone doesn't know is she has secrets and she is a liar.

Fourteen years ago when she was an university student, she knew a boy called Scott. They fell in love and Anna thought he'd be the one whom she'd spend her life with thereafter but she was wrong. Scott could be a nice guy, but he had a gambling habit. And in the name of love, Anna decided to help him but she'd made many bad choices along the course. Scott's habits had eventually led to his death and Anna has moved on until lately she heard Scott on a radio show saying he has a story to share. The radio show is popular as the audience could dial in to give some snippets of the things they want to share and whoever receives the most vote will get to spill everything within a week's time after the polling. This sent Anna in a frenzy state because how could Scott be alive? And if it's not him then who else could it be since Scott is the only one who knew about their past?

I think the main draw of this book is not only about deceptions and secrets but also allow readers to be aware of the consequences of gamblings. There is also a murder case which is tied closely to the mystery surrounding Scott which add intrigue to the overall plot and this is where DCI Tom Douglas comes in. Aside from the investigations, we get to see the other side of Tom when he was with his family, especially with his daughter since he is separated from his wife.

As for Anna, I'd mixed feelings for her. There were times I was sympathetic with her situations; yet there were also times I wanted to shake her and wished she'd chosen those decisions the other way. Although there are some parts which may appear a bit far-fetched to me, overall it was an engrossing read (and of course there's a twist in the end).

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Psychological Thriller 8 comments |

Leave No Trace by Mindy Mejia

Melody

Quercus | September 2018 | 352 pgs

Source: Library

Ten years ago, Josiah Blackthorn and his son, Lucas, trekked into the wilderness of Minnesota's Boundary Waters and were never heard again. As their campsites were found ravaged, everyone's initial thoughts was they might be attacked by some wild animals. A decade later, Lucas was found ransacking an outfitter store. He was caught but his mental condition appeared unstable; he was violent and uncommunicative so he is now incarcerated in Congdon Psychiatric Institution.

Speech therapist Maya Stark is assigned to Lucas's case. Having grown up at the Boundary Waters, she has her own sad story and secrets to hide. She is intrigued by Lucas no doubt, after all he is a high profile patient in the Institute and the fact that they are both familiar with Boundary Waters. Lucas isn't cooperative initially but through Maya's persistence efforts Lucas starts to open up. Eventually Maya feels she needs to help Lucas find his father, even if she is to break some protocols.

"A father had disappeared. A son was desperate to find him. And I would tell a thousand lies if it brought him one step closer." ~ Pg 134

While Leave No Trace may read as a psychological thriller, I think it's also right to say it's about the emotional struggles and connections between a therapist and a patient. The characters development was great; and I felt so much for both Lucas and Maya. However, their connection also made me uneasy; especially Maya took matters into her own hands and broke a few work ethics rules.

Aside from this, there's also the mystery surrounding Maya's mother's disappearance when Maya was younger and how it continues to haunt her as an adult. I thought this was an intriguing aspect throughout the story, though I was equally curious about Josiah's whereabouts and whether or not if he's still alive. The pace starts out a bit slow in the beginning but picks up quickly once events start to unfold. While overall this was a satisfying read, I liked her previous novel (Everything You Want Me to Be) better.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Psychological Thriller 10 comments |

An Act of Villainy by Ashley Weaver

Melody

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.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Mystery 8 comments |

The Invited by Jennifer McMahon

Melody

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.

Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Mystery, Thriller 13 comments |

You Let Me In by Lucy Clarke

Melody

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.

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

Devil's Daughter by Lisa Kleypas

Melody

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.

Labels: 4.5 stars, Book Review, Historical Romance 10 comments |

My Sister, The Serial Killer by Oyinkan Braithwaite

Melody

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.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Thriller 11 comments |

The Secretary by Renee Knight

Melody

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.

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

Driven to Distraction by Lori Foster

Melody

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.

Labels: 3.5 stars, Book Review, Contemporary Romance 4 comments |

No Exit by Taylor Adams

Melody

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.

Labels: 4.5 stars, Book Review, Thriller 8 comments |

The Night Visitors by Carol Goodman

Melody

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.

Labels: 4 stars, Book Review, Suspense Thriller 8 comments |

The Au Pair by Emma Rous

Melody

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.

Labels: 4 5 stars, Book Review, Fiction, Suspense 16 comments |

It Ends With Her by Brianna Labuskes

Melody

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.

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

Elevation by Stephen King

Melody

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.