Welcome to this week’s Book Talk!
The Heatwave by Katerina Diamond: 3.5 stars. While I enjoyed the mystery, I found it to be a little slow-paced. The lead character was also a tad bit annoying as she tries to uncover information about what happened in the past that might have led to a current kidnapping in the present. Interpresed with the current day events are flashbacks to the pivotal summer when another teenage girl went missing. The dual storyline plot device works well and builds tension throughout the novel. The first person narration in the present reveals frustratingly little info about the protagonist’s connection to the past until the truly shocking conclusion.
Everyone Here Is Lying by Shari Lapena: 4 stars. Great storyline with some slightly irritating characters. The pacing is outstanding and keep the pages turning quickly. Both parents drove me crazy at different times throughout the novel. The mystery kept me guessing until the great plot-twist is revealed.
Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen: 4.5 stars. I loved this fantastic mystery! Fast paced with well-developed characters. The storyline is compelling with an outstanding conclusion.
Prom Mom by Laura Lippman: 4.5 stars. Ms. Lippman’s mysteries are sometimes hit and miss with me. But I was very intrigued by the novel’s premise so I decided to give it a read. The storyline is unique and the characters are vibrantly drawn. The unfolding story moves at a steady pace. Despite some of the characters’ actions, they are mostly likable. This brilliant mystery comes to an absolutely jaw-dropping conclusion.
The Edge of Summer by Viola Shipman: 4.5 stars. A woman trying to uncover the secrets of her deceased mother’s past finds much more than she is searching for. Set in Michigan in the aftermath of the pandemic, this heartwarming novel is full of secrets and introspection. Heartfelt and engaging characters, a beautiful setting and an emotional storyline bring this compelling novel brilliantly to life.
Now it’s your turn. What have you been reading lately? Join the discussion by commenting below!
