Welcome to this week’s Book Talk!
I had another excellent reading week!
Fire with Fire by Candace Fox: 4.5 stars. An action-packed, fast-paced thriller. The “good guys” are flawed but that only adds to their likeability. The lab kidnappers’ actions are understandable yet incredibly misguided. Detective Charlie Hoskins is very relucatant to pair up with Lynette Lamb but she refuses to take no for an answer. She is a very intuitive investigator whose assistance is invaluable throughout their investigation. Readers will be on the edge of their seats as this incredible mystery races to a breathtaking conclusion.
The Lie Maker by Linwood Barclay: 4.5 stars. A fast-paced, twist-filled mystery that weaves back and forth in time. In the present Jack Givens is drawn into a search for his father who is missing from the witness protection program. In the past, readers discover what his father meant when he told his son “Your dad’s not a good person. Your dad killed people, son.” The characters are three-dimensional and interesting yet flawed. The storyline is a little improbable but it is very easy to suspend disbelief. The plot moves at a brisk pace and the conclusion is action paced.
Drowning by T.J. Newman: 5 stars. An adrenaline-laced thriller. The attention grabbing storyline keeps the pages turning at a blistering pace. The people aboard the plane are quite captivating and mostly likeable. The history between main characters Will Kent, soon to be ex-wife Chris and their eleven year old daughter is fraught and quite emotional. The chapters alternate between the high stakes rescue of the remaining passengers and the heart-rending events that contributed to the Kent’s separation and upcoming divorce. Different perspectives add plenty of depth to unfolding drama. The conclusion races to heart-stopping conclusion as the rescue plays out in just a matter of compelling hours.
Between Two Strangers by Kate White: 4.5 stars. A slow burn yet compelling mystery. A twisty storyline and engaging characters are the perfect combination for a page-turning read. Main character Skyler Moore struggles to understand why a one-night stand from twelve years ago would leave her a fortune. In her quest to uncover the truth, she has a skin-crawling stalker and an angry widow to contend with. It is not until the chilling conclusion that Skylar uncovers the stunning truth.
The Vanishing Hour by Seraphina Nova Glass: 4 stars. Written from muliple perspectives, this mystery is intriguing. Two of the mainish characters, Kira and Aden, have missing family members. Kira is frantic to find her daughter and her anxiety and stress levels are extremely high. Although sympathetic, Kira’s impulsive actions and inner monologue are very annoying. Aden’s father is missing but he is reluctant to return to Maine and deal with his brother and mom. But he is a dutiful son so he makes the journey and searches for his dad. Grace’s life is limited to the inn where she works. She has good reason for keeping to herself but finds herself a little less frightened once Aden becomes a guest. But when she learns about the missing people, Grace might just be the key to uncovering the startling truth about what has been happening in town. The plot is solid but the pacing is initally slow. The finale is full of urgency as Kira and Aden race to find their loved ones.
Now it’s your turn. What have you been reading lately? Join the discussion by commenting below!
