A Book A Week

How well do we really know the people we love? Despite our efforts to connect and understand them, there are always layers of their lives that remain hidden from us. I often ponder this when reflecting on my great-grandparents, whom I was fortunate to know for much of my life. Despite spending considerable time with them and hearing their stories, I only scratched the surface of who they truly were. It's a poignant reminder of the inherent mystery within our closest relationships. This theme sets the groundwork for  Jeneva Rose's latest thriller, Home is Where the Bodies Are. Despite hearing much acclaim for Rose's work, I hadn't yet had the opportunity to delve into her books. Through her publisher's kindness in providing me a copy of her newest release, I finally read her work. 

"The moments that change us always feel recent because we carry them with us whether we want to or not."

The narrative delves into the lives of three siblings, each navigating their own journey. Their family dynamics were forever altered by their father's disappearance years ago, leaving a void that they coped with in divergent ways. Beth, the eldest, remained at home, tending to their ailing mother. Nicole, the middle child, grappled with drug addiction, drifting in and out of their lives amidst her struggles. Meanwhile, the youngest, Michael, pursued success elsewhere, distancing himself from their Wisconsin roots. The imminent passing of their mother prompts their reunion, with Beth being the sole witness to her final moments. Their mother divulges a long-held secret in a cryptic revelation, cautioning Beth against trust. Now faced with a dilemma, Beth must decide whether to disclose this revelation to her siblings or conceal it.

The three siblings soon face another revelation as they sort through their parent's belongings. They chance upon a cache of home videos, prompting a nostalgic journey through their past. Their trip down memory lane takes a chilling turn when they stumble upon a VHS tape documenting a forgotten night from 1999. On-screen, their father emerges, blood-stained. The tape documents another grim discovery and a pact between their parents to conceal it. Before more answers can be revealed, the footage abruptly ends. Confronted with this unsettling revelation, Beth, Nicole, and Michael are compelled to confront the buried secrets of their family's history. Will they choose to unearth the truth or let the past fade into obscurity along with their mother's passing?

In Home is Where the Bodies Are, Jeneva Rose explores the intriguing concept of mysteries lurking within familial bonds, crafting a suspenseful narrative rife with hidden family secrets that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Through deft shifts in perspective between the three siblings and flashbacks from their late mother, Rose intricately weaves a web of deceit and revelation, laying the groundwork for a captivating tale. Immersed in the mystery, I found myself eagerly flipping through the pages, eager to uncover the next twist. A mystery's potency often hinges on the strength of its characters, and Rose excels in this aspect. She provides nuanced development for each protagonist. By allotting chapters to each sibling's viewpoint, she gives readers insight into their motivations and aspirations, enhancing our understanding of their roles within the narrative. The culmination of events leads to a shocking yet gratifying twist, providing a deeply satisfying conclusion. Home is Where the Bodies Are is a riveting, fast-paced thriller that showcases Jeneva Rose's compelling storytelling.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 33)

April has proven to be a month abundant with new releases from several of my favorite authors. The sheer volume of titles on my April TBR has necessitated some rationing. While I'd typically devour each of these releases as they publish, I'm only just now getting to some of my most anticipated reads. Among these releases, John Sandford stands out as one of my top choices in the crime genre. I've been an avid fan since I discovered his Virgil Flowers series over a decade ago. I subsequently delved into his Prey series featuring Lucas Davenport and, more recently, his latest series featuring Davenport's daughter, Letty.

Despite reaching the age of 80, Sandford continues to maintain a prolific writing pace, typically releasing at least one new novel each year. Still, he has slowed down his practice of updating each series independently, instead opting to have his main characters collaborate in a single story under the Prey banner. Toxic Prey, his newest release, marks an evolution in this approach, as it sees Lucas teaming up with his daughter Letty for the first time in a gripping and pulse-pounding tale.

The book begins with Letty Davenport embarking on a journey to Oxford to rendezvous with British secret agent Alec Hawkins. Despite an immediate mutual attraction, their focus swiftly shifts to the task at hand: investigating the disappearance of Dr. Lionell Scott. Suspected to be residing somewhere in the United States, fears abound that his research into contagious viruses may have taken a sinister turn. Conversations with his former mentors reveal Scott's deep interest in the Gaia theory, which posits that all living organisms collectively form and sustain a synergistic system. According to Scott, humanity's unchecked proliferation has disrupted this balance, posing a threat to the very fabric of Gaia. His proposed solution eerily echoes that of Marvel's Thanos: a drastic reduction in the human population. 

With their suspicions seemingly validated, Letty and Hawkins return to the United States, intent on locating Scott and thwarting his malevolent scheme. Recognizing the formidable challenge of finding an elusive fugitive, Letty calls upon her father, the seasoned investigator Lucas Davenport, for assistance. With Davenport's expertise at their disposal, the team embarks on a perilous mission to prevent the catastrophic spread of a mutated virus that threatens the very existence of life as we know it.

Toxic Prey sets the bar for high stakes in the long-running series, with the threat of a deadly and contagious virus looming over the narrative. Just five years ago, the notion of such a scenario might have seemed like pure science fiction. However, in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the storyline takes on a chilling plausibility. Unlike the typical "hunt and arrest" formula of previous installments, this time, the investigation is fraught with the constant fear of an active virus, leading to a shoot-to-kill and containment-at-all-costs approach.

Given the weighty subject matter and the absence of Davenport's usual sparring partner, Virgil Flowers, the trademark witty banter that fans have come to expect from the series is notably toned down in this book. Nevertheless, the intense urgency of the situation and the compelling father-daughter dynamic between the main protagonists ensure that Toxic Prey remains a gripping and fast-paced read. With Sandford already hinting at the return of Flowers in the next installment, anticipation is already building for what promises to be another thrilling addition to the series.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 32)

For years, Sally Hepworth was an author whose name I was familiar with, yet I had never taken the plunge into her works. That changed last year when I picked up The Soulmate—and from that moment on, I was hooked. Hepworth masterfully wove a captivating tale, blending shifting perspectives, well-guarded secrets, and unexpected twists, creating a compelling thriller that engrossed me from start to finish. It was the kind of book that kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly anticipating each new revelation. So, when Hepworth's publisher generously provided me with the audio version of her latest release, Darling Girls, I was thrilled to dive back into her storytelling. True to form, Hepworth has crafted another enticing premise that promises to captivate readers immediately.

The novel unravels the intertwined lives of Jessica, Norah, and Alicia, three young girls who, despite being unrelated by blood, find themselves bound together as sisters due to their shared tragedies. Placed in the care of Miss Fairchild at Wild Meadows, a vast former ranch in Australia, they initially believed they had found a safe haven. Miss Fairchild's nurturing facade soon crumbled, however, revealing a strict and unpredictable disciplinarian. Sensing their guardian's temperamental volatility, the girls quickly learned the consequences of defiance. Their time under Miss Fairchild's care reached a harrowing climax when they managed to escape her clutches, physically liberated but forever scarred by the psychological torment she inflicted.

Fast forward to the present day, and the three girls have become women leading separate lives. Jessica has channeled her experiences into becoming an organizational guru, bringing clarity to her clients' chaotic lives. Norah, on the other hand, has struggled to find her footing, frequently entangled in legal troubles. Meanwhile, Alicia has chosen a path of redemption, dedicating herself to aiding foster children and those in crisis. Their carefully constructed lives are disrupted when a detective approaches them with unsettling news. During the demolition of Wild Meadows, a body has been unearthed. The women are forced to confront long-buried memories and secrets as the past resurfaces. Are they merely witnesses to the grim discovery, or are they concealing dark truths they had hoped never to revisit?

In Darling Girls, Sally Hepworth delivers a gripping thriller that captivates not merely through its rapid twists and turns, of which there are many, but by intricately developing multifaceted characters that evolve and deepen as the narrative progresses. Seamlessly transitioning between past and present and among the three main protagonists, Hepworth enriches each character's story, amplifying the underlying tension and suspense that permeates the entire novel. Right from the outset, a palpable sense of unease grabs hold of the reader, compelling them to uncover the truth behind the events. Jessica Clarke's narration skillfully breathes life into each character, infusing her performance with enough subtlety to effortlessly distinguish between them. The novel builds towards a climactic revelation that is both shocking and satisfying, subverting expectations and prompting readers to reevaluate everything they believed about the story's direction. Darling Girls is yet another riveting read from Hepworth, solidifying her status as a must-read author in the genre.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 31)

Since debuting with The Chalk Man in 2018, author C.J. Tudor has established herself as a master of crafting original novels that toe the line between thriller and horror. I've had the pleasure of delving into each of her books, finding particular enjoyment in The Burning Girls, which remains my favorite among her releases. Last year's The Drift further showcased Tudor's prowess in evolving her style and experimenting with narrative structures. Naturally, I eagerly anticipated the release of her newest book, The Gathering. In keeping with her signature style, this latest offering from Tudor once again delves into genre-bending territory, weaving elements of folklore, suspense, and rich character development into a highly original narrative that grabs you from the very beginning.

Deadhart, Alaska, a remote small town nestled in the vast Alaskan wilderness, remains largely unknown to the outside world, its population of fewer than 900 residents living quietly without any notable connections to the larger community. Yet, as the long nights descend and the snow blankets the landscape, Deadhart becomes the stage for a darkness not felt in over 25 years. The grim discovery of a young boy's body, his throat savagely slashed and completely drained of blood, sends shockwaves rippling through the community. Memories of a similar gruesome murder from years past flood the minds of the locals, sparking immediate suspicions. They are convinced that The Colony, an ostracized enclave of vampyrs residing in a secluded old mine settlement deep within the woods, is to blame. With the specter of the past haunting them, the residents brace themselves for the imminent arrival of darker, colder, and more perilous days.

Enter Detective Barbara Atkins, a seasoned investigator specializing in vampyr-related homicides. Tasked with determining whether The Colony is indeed responsible for the heinous killing, she faces the daunting prospect of authorizing a cull—a systematic extermination of all vampyrs in the vicinity. Barbara harbors doubts regarding the creatures' involvement. Determined to uncover the truth, she recruits the assistance of former Deadhart sheriff, Jenson Tucker, whose previous investigation into a similar murder nearly cost him his life. Tensions between the townsfolk and vampyrs are reaching a fever pitch, and Barbara and Tucker must unravel the mystery before further harm befalls the community. Before they can proceed, though, they must ascertain the true identity of their quarry. Is this the handiwork of a bloodthirsty monster or a deranged psychopath? Where does the boundary between the two even lie?

With her seventh book, The Gathering, C.J. Tudor demonstrates her adeptness at exploring fresh territory. In this installment, she intertwines a murder mystery with a tale of monsters, interwoven with themes of small-town politics, the lingering specter of past indiscretions, and religious undertones. The town boasts diverse characters, adding depth to the narrative beyond typical genre expectations. Set against the backdrop of a snow-laden town shrouded in darkness, the story exudes an aura of suspense, intensifying the intrigue surrounding the central murder mystery.

While I appreciated the atmospheric setting and the overarching mystery, I found it challenging to connect strongly with the numerous characters and their ever-shifting perspectives. Although invested in unraveling the mystery, I felt that insufficient time was allotted to each character for a deeper emotional investment. Nevertheless, Deadhart emerges as a vividly depicted locale with its own rich mythology, blending traditional genre elements with innovative twists. The Gathering can be likened to a solid B-movie read, showcasing Tudor's versatile writing style and her willingness to explore diverse narrative terrain. While it may not rank as my favorite among her works, it undeniably adds value to her body of work. Once again, I eagerly anticipate whatever captivating tale Tudor conjures up next.

For more information, visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 30)

Last year, I embarked on a mission to dive into the works of authors I hadn't previously explored. This endeavor introduced me to many fresh voices and titles that I might not have otherwise encountered, leading me to discover numerous authors who have now earned a spot on my must-read list. This year, though, I've primarily focused on chipping away at my existing backlog of books, meaning I've been revisiting more familiar authors. This pattern shifted with my recent read, None of This is True by Lisa Jewell. Despite having several of Jewell's titles languishing on my TBR list for years, it was the consistent high praise from my trusted circle of book-reviewing friends that finally nudged me to delve into her work. Now, having experienced her storytelling firsthand, I completely understand the acclaim.

Strangers Alix and Josie are birthday twins, born on the exact same day. Their paths serendipitously cross during separate celebrations of their shared birthday. Despite being the same age, their lives are starkly contrasting. Alix enjoys a seemingly idyllic existence, married to a successful and charming man, raising two young children, and hosting a financially and creatively rewarding podcast. In contrast, Josie's life is more subdued. She's married to an older retired man and has two grown children, one of whom is estranged from her. The chance meeting between the two women on their birthdays is brief, and they quickly part ways.

Fate soon intervenes, and Alix and Josie's lives intersect once more, mere days after their initial rendevous. Is this another random coincidence, or is there more to it than meets the eye? This second encounter sparks a conversation where Josie begins to unveil her personal challenges and yearning for change. Alix, having exhausted her podcast's focus on celebrating women's achievements, sees Josie's narrative as a fresh angle to rejuvenate her show. With Josie's reluctant consent, the two embark on a collaborative venture. As Josie delves deeper into her story, Alix begins to discern underlying shadows and potential dangers. Will this narrative evolve into a tale of triumph over adversity, or is Alix unwittingly steering her podcast into a true crime story?

In None of This is True, Lisa Jewell masterfully weaves a narrative rife with deceit, faltering relationships, and unchecked envy. While the story took its time to establish its rhythm, the unveiling of the character's true intentions and motivations was gripping, making it nearly impossible to put the book down. Jewell employs a dual narrative, alternating between Alix and Josie's perspectives, skillfully leading the reader along a tantalizing trail of breadcrumbs. Trust becomes a scarce commodity by the story's conclusion, leaving readers uncertain about the tale's ultimate destination. This level of suspense and uncertainty is precisely what I crave from a thriller, and Jewell delivers in spades. None of This is True is a riveting, compulsively readable novel, the type of book that keeps you glued to its pages late into the night. It left me eager to dive into more of Jewell's novels at the earliest opportunity.

For more information visit the author's website, Amazon, and Goodreads. 

(2024, 29)

If you know anything about British royal history, you probably know of King Henry VIII and his many wives. Needless to say, the king had some commitment issues. Interestingly, despite the king's revolving door of consorts, he was steadfast in his devotion to one person for the remainder of his life. Enter Will Sommers, his jester. Not much is known with any certainty about Will Sommers other than he was the Monarch's jester from the reign of King Henry VIII through the reigns of Henry's children: King Edward VI, Queen Mary I, and Queen Elizabeth I. To have such longevity in a medieval royal court is a triumph for anyone, let alone a jester. Being afforded this place of prominence across generations of the Tudor dynasty put Sommers in a uniquely front-row seat for some of the most dramatic events in British history. This is what makes the premise of Jeri Westerson's Courting Dragons so intriguing. Weaving a murder mystery into the lore of this particular jester opens up endless possibilities.

Jeri Westerson's Will Sommers is a fool, but he's no dummy. Sommers is quite the intellect, often outmaneuvering his supposed "betters" and overpowering them with his quick wit and expertly landed taunts. As a medieval jester, he is allowed a certain level of freedom within the court of King Henry VIII. Neither nobleman nor servant, the otherwise rigid court rules are often bent regarding what the jester does or says. A jester to the king easily moves about the palace to be in the presence of whomever he pleases, regardless of their class. Perhaps more importantly, a jester can say what others think without fear of losing one's head. After all, who would take seriously the insults of a fool? Even so, Sommers uses his position and keen intellect to both entertain and ridicule / bring to light the various schemes of the court. Chief of which at this moment is the "Great Matter" of King Henry's ongoing campaign to end his marriage to Queen Catherine of Spain. 

As that well-known drama unfolds, Sommers finds himself in a precarious situation of his own--stumbling upon the slit throat of his Spanish male lover. Queerness in the medieval era was similarly dangerous as in modern times, so Sommer's proclivity for bedding other men was something that must remain a secret. Quickly realizing his unique access as a jester puts him in an unusual position to investigate the murder, Sommers feels honor-bound to discover the culprit and enlists his one true love, Marion, to help. As the plot unfolds and secrets emerge, the investigation raises more questions than answers. Was the Spaniard killed due to the homosexual nature of his and Sommer's relations? Or does it have to do with the rising tensions between the Spanish and English and the "great matter" at court? With the consequences of succession, blasphemy, and power at hand, Sommers must walk a perilous line to uncover the truth.

As I mentioned earlier, not much is truly known about Will Sommers outside of his long tenure as court jester. But that is what makes Courting Dragons so fun. Jeri Westerson gets to play with an archetype rooted in arguably the most theatrical and sensationalized period in Western history. I found Will Sommers's perspective fascinating, and as a gay man, I appreciated the inclusion of queer elements without it being the main focus of the story, especially within the context of Renaissance England. I admit that the final revelation of the plot left me feeling somewhat anticlimactic, but it does not detract from the fun I had reading this book. I found this story to be a satisfying intertwining of a traditional murder mystery set in the ever-popular historical context of the court of King Henry VIII. If that sounds like your cup of tea, I highly recommend this story. 

Review by Johnathan H.