Category: Best Seller

Book Review: Malibu Burning by Lee Goldberg

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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If you love morally complex characters, smart heist plots, and high-stakes action, Malibu Burning is your next must-read. The first installment in Lee Goldberg’s new Sharpe & Walker series blends crime fiction, firefighting drama, and an undercurrent of redemption into a tightly woven, page-turning thriller.

Told through dual timelines and perspectives, Malibu Burning introduces two compelling leads: Danny Cole, a former convict and skilled con artist with a surprising moral code, and Andrew Walker, a former U.S. Marshal turned arson investigator. At first, their stories seem disconnected — one plotting a heist in the chaos of a wildfire, the other chasing suspicious fires across California. But as the flames spread, their paths collide in a way that’s both explosive and unexpectedly emotional.

This was my first solo Lee Goldberg novel (though I’ve read and enjoyed his collaborations with Janet Evanovich), and fans of the Fox and O’Hare series will definitely feel at home here. There’s the same slick pacing, clever plotting, and banter-driven dialogue, but Malibu Burning adds a darker, more grounded edge that really works in its favor.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is its focus on California’s inmate firefighter program — a system that feels ripe for both praise and critique, and Goldberg handles it with a mix of realism and empathy. It gives the story an extra layer of tension and makes Danny’s motivations feel all the more believable. He’s a morally gray antihero you can’t help but root for, especially as his plans veer from revenge into something far more complicated.

The stakes are high — wildfires rage, a cartel closes in, and the line between right and wrong blurs as the story builds to a cinematic climax. But what elevates this book beyond a typical thriller is its heart. Amid the crime and chaos, there are genuine moments of sacrifice, redemption, and even a spark of hope.

Whether you’re here for the action, the character dynamics, or the Robin Hood-style justice, Malibu Burning delivers. It’s smart, fast, and fiery in all the best ways — and it sets up the Sharpe & Walker series with serious momentum.

The Malibu Burning is out now! You can grab your copy here. The whole series is available on KU for both ebook AND audio!

Click the links below for the rest of the Sharpe & Walker Series

Ashes Never Lie

Hidden in Smoke

Book Review: A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

🫑 /5

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If ever there was a book that felt like a cozy, witchy hug, it’s this one.

A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping is a warm, enchanting, and emotionally resonant story about rebuilding from the ashes of failure, rediscovering joy in magic, and finding home in the most unexpected people (and creatures).

At the heart of this delightful novel is Sera Swan, once the rising star of the Guild, now an exile stripped of her magic after breaking the rules to save someone she loved. In a desperate act of forbidden magic, Sera brought her quirky Aunt Jasmine back from the dead—and unintentionally resurrected a zombie rooster named Roo-Roo in the process. With her powers gone and her reputation shattered, Sera retreats to Jasmine’s magical inn in Lancashire, a place where outcasts are welcomed, and the impossible feels ordinary.

The inn quickly becomes a gathering place for some of the most charmingly chaotic characters I’ve ever met. But I think my favorite just might be Roo-Roo – the unintentionally resurrected zombie rooster who steals every scene he’s in. Yes, really. Oh and there’s a talking fox named Clemmie. I picture her as a British fox version of Salem from Sabrina The Teenaged Witch.

Through it all, Sera must navigate the messy, funny, and sometimes heartbreaking process of learning to live a life she never expected, with people she never saw coming. And maybe—just maybe—she’ll rediscover her magic in more ways than one.

Mandanna’s writing is full of charm, wit, and just enough emotional heft to make your heart ache in all the right ways. The story balances found family, redemption arcs, gentle romance, and whimsical worldbuilding with pitch-perfect tone. The village inn setting, nestled in the English countryside, is pure autumnal escapism—exactly the kind of place you’ll want to move into (goats, zombie birds, and all).

It’s the perfect read to usher in fall, purely magical, and full of cozy charm.

On sale now, you can grab your copy here.

Book Review: The Verifiers by Jane Pek

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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I just finished The Verifiers by Jan Pek and thoroughly enjoyed it. The book has a quirky charm, which fits perfectly with its equally quirky main character, Claudia, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Claudia has recently left a proofreading job (courtesy of her successful brother) to work at a company that verifies the authenticity of online dating profiles.

Claudia’s very first client sets the stage for a mystery that unravels with unexpected twists and turns. Not everything is as it seems. I particularly enjoyed the clever puns Pek uses for naming the dating sites and the way the story feels modern and relevant, diving into the ongoing societal debates about technology and its moral implications.

One of my favorite aspects of Claudia’s character is that she’s a bona fide bookworm and mystery enthusiast. The book is peppered with delightful references to Jane Austen and Inspector Yuan (who might be a real figure from Chinese television or culture—or simply a figment of the author’s imagination I’m unsure and this will require more research on my part). Either way, he feels like the Chinese version of Sherlock Holmes, and I’d love to read some of his stories!

Beyond the mystery, the book also explores complex family dynamics, adding another layer of depth. Claudia is caught between two uber-successful siblings, and while she appears to be her mother’s favorite, their mother is relentlessly critical of all of them. This dynamic doesn’t just illuminate Claudia’s internal struggles but resonates with the universal complexities found in all families. Pek’s portrayal of these relationships is thoughtful and relatable, enriching the story as much as the central mystery itself.

Overall, I loved this book, especially the ending, which teases the possibility of Claudia not only finding a love interest but also carving her own unique role within the Verifiers. Highly recommended!

The Verifiers is out now and you can grab your copy here.

This Girl’s A Killer by Emma C. Wells

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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I’ve had the pleasure of reading a lot of good books this year. So far, I’ve been surprised and impressed more often than not, and this last read was no exception.

When I received an invitation from Poisoned Pen Press to read This Girl’s a Killer, I was a little apprehensive, as I don’t usually read horror or “scary” books. But I loved Finlay Donovan, so I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did because I was absolutely blown away. This is why I love new authors; you never know what you’re going to find.

Cordelia Black isn’t crazy. She’s organized. She’s punctual. She has a killer wardrobe. She loves her best friend and goddaughter. She isn’t crazy. She’s just… Karma.

Everything is going just fine until it isn’t. Watching Cordelia’s perfect world fall apart actually gave me anxiety while making me laugh. It was an interesting paradox. This book is dark, twisty, and funny.

I cannot wait to see what Emma Wells comes up with next.

Thank you so much to the author, Netgalley and the publisher Poisoned Pen Press for giving me this opportunity to read an ARC copy.

This Girl’s a Killer is out now and you can grab your copy here.

Book Review: The Book of Murder by Matt Murphy

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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The Book of Murder by Matt Murphy is a must-read for all true crime junkies out there. Law and forensic investigation have always fascinated me, and Murphy’s extensive experience with high-profile cases makes this book an absolute page-turner. You might recognize his name—Murphy was the prosecutor who put Dirty John behind bars, as well as Skylar Deleon and Rodney Alcala. Others may know him as a frequent guest on 20/20 or Good Morning America. 

This book is part autobiography, part dos and don’ts of being a prosecutor, and part history of the horrific cases Murphy has worked on. He’s brutally honest about the toll his work took on his mental health, personal life, and relationships. His vulnerability and the regrets that came with throwing his entire life into his career add a raw and personal element to the story. Murphy gives readers an inside look at the emotional and mental strain of relentlessly fighting for justice.

I hesitate to call this an “enjoyable” read because the nature of the crimes Murphy prosecuted is so horrific but once I started reading, I was hooked—totally invested and unable to stop. His ability to bring criminals to justice is riveting, and his strong, clear voice makes him a master storyteller. If you’re a diehard true crime fan, you do not want to pass this one up. Even if true crime isn’t your usual go-to, this book is still worth diving into.

Murphy also shows a great deal of respect for his colleagues, even those on the other side of the courtroom. Often, you hear about bad blood between prosecutors and defense attorneys, but he seems to have genuine admiration for everyone involved in the process—from judges to fellow prosecutors and even defense attorneys.

I found myself constantly Googling the names, trying to put faces to the victims, heroes, and perpetrators alike. It felt like being in a twilight zone—totally invested and impossible to deter. This book offers an intense, all-consuming read, providing a gripping and insightful view into the life of a prosecutor who dedicated himself to seeking justice. Highly recommend!

As always, I encourage you to read this one for yourself and formulate your own opinion. Thank you to the author Matt Murphy, the publisher Hyperion Ave and NetGalley for the ARC copy of this book!

On sale now, you can click here for the book, or HERE for the author narrated audio book (highly recommend!)

🎧 Audio book Review: The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

It’s safe to say that I added this book to my TBR as soon as I saw it was published. I practically grew up with Gilmore Girls—Rory and I are only a year apart in the show, and as a fellow bookworm, I strongly identified with her. (Not so much watching the show as an adult, but that’s another story/rant.) Having already devoured Lauren Graham’s book a few years ago, I was excited to see a side of the show from the perspective of the iconic Emily Gilmore. To say I didn’t fully appreciate who Kelly Bishop was and what she meant to the world of theater and performing arts is an understatement. Also, how did I forget she was Baby’s mom?! I thought it was pretty cool that she was actually supposed to have a small role in Dirty Dancing, but when she got there, the actress they hired to play Marjorie Houseman was let go and she was offered the role.

When you’re attached to a character, especially one from a show or movie that has been so defining in your life, it’s hard to see them as anything else. I was particularly eager to get to the part of the book where Kelly discusses Gilmore Girls. However, I soon realized that she had lived an incredibly rich and fascinating life long before the show, which was just as compelling to read about. Kelly is upfront and brutally honest, admitting to mistakes and experiences that Emily would never have dreamed of.

When we finally reached the portion of the book dedicated to Gilmore Girls—what I consider to be the “meaty” part—it was heartwarming to hear how she talks about Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham. It’s clear that although they were a TV family, they remain a real family to her. Her description of the kindness shown to her by Ed Herman’s wife in his final days brought tears to my eyes. I was also delighted to find out that some of my favorite Emily Gilmore scenes, such as when she tears down Shira Huntsberger and has a meltdown over Trix’s funeral arrangements, are also Kelly’s favorites.

This book is a must-read for all Gilmore Girls fans. I’m truly blown away by the life this amazing woman has lived. I grappled with whether to get the audio book or a hard copy and ended up choosing the audio book. It felt like Emily Gilmore was reading to me the entire time, and it was incredibly relaxing to listen to. I will eventually get a physical copy as a shelf trophy—it’s just too good not to. Kelly Bishop is an incredible lady, and I’m so glad she decided to share her life with us. Some of the things Kelly did in her life are so un-Emily-like that I couldn’t help but laugh, imagining how Emily would react if she knew just how scandalous the actress playing her really was!

On sale now, you can grab your physical copy here or the digital copy here!

Zero Stars Do Not Recommend

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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Where to start, where to start…

So, initially, I grabbed this book because the cover led me to believe it was a rom-com. Wrong! Insert buzzer sound here.

You could call it a modern-day Lord of the Flies, and you wouldn’t be far off, but there’s so much more to this book. It’s got a mix of romance, mystery, sci-fi, thriller, and satire. Like Lord of the Flies, it forces us to consider what would happen if the worst-case scenario became reality. What would society look like if our systems of law and order collapsed and we were left to fend for ourselves?

Who among us, male or female, hasn’t felt like Dan at some point in our lives? That kid in school who was told they could be anything they wanted but ended up only achieving mediocrity? And who doesn’t wrestle with the question of what it means to be a man or a woman and the stereotypes that go along with that? Mara is amazing in this story, loving Dan for who he is rather than who she could mold him into. She’s a total badass.

The writing is sharp; it’s funny while tackling some terrifying ideas and notions. The one-liners are hysterical, and the relationship between Dan and Mara is delightful to read. And who would ever expect a Bible-thumping preacher’s wife, who also happens to be an MLM creator, to be the one who stages a coup and steals all the food and power? But, as with all stories, not everything is as it seems, and there’s more going on at the resort than meets the eye.

I’d describe this as a “soft” thriller, not because it’s overly scary, but because it still gives you that anxious, “OMG, what’s going to happen next?” feeling that thrillers do. If you’re a fan of the Finlay Donovan or Riley Thorn books, I think you’ll really enjoy Zero Stars Do Not Recommend. As always, read it yourself and see what you think. I went in expecting a rom-com, but it turned out to be so much better!

Thank you so much to the author, Netgalley and the publisher Sourcebooks for giving me this opportunity to read an ARC copy.

Zero Stars Do Not Reccommend is out now and you can grab your copy here.

Plot Twist by Carmen Sereno

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

🌶️🌶️/5

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💖 Enemies to Lovers

💖 Opposites Attract

💖 Forced Proximity

💖 Workplace Romance

💖 Slow Burn

Plot Twist launches today! It’s a fast-paced rom-com packed with some of my favorite tropes!

Siobhan Harris is an inexperienced romance writer, just trying to make ends meet. Recently ghosted by her boyfriend and stuck in an unaffordable apartment, she’s down to her last shred of sanity and nearly her last dollar when a book offer changes her life.

Marcel Dupont, a narcissistic asshat, ended his phenomenally successful thriller series by killing off its hero in a tantrum. His fans are outraged, and so is his publisher. He’s obsessed with keeping his identity a secret, remaining a faceless author.

Forced onto Twitter, the first thing the social media-naïve Marcel does is start a feud with Siobhan. With her star on the rise and his on the decline, the publisher decides they need to collaborate on a romantic thriller.

Cue the drama. Sparks fly, tensions escalate, and as they get to know each other, they both discover that there’s more to the other than meets the eye. The writing is sharp and witty, and the banter between Siobhan and Marcel is outstanding! Initially, I really, really disliked Marcel, but I eventually grew to love him. Siobhan, however, had my support from the very start! Also…potential 2nd book with Paige and Alex 🤔 🧐

A huge thank you to the author, the publisher Amazon Crossing and NetGalley for sending me this amazing book for my review. It’s on sale now and you can pick up your copy by clicking here.

Darling Girls By Sally Hepworth

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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Ready for a wild ride? Because Sally Hepworth is about to take you on one with Darling Girls. This is one twisty thriller, my bookworm friends. Jessica, Norah, and Alicia were all told how lucky they were to end up at Wild Meadows with the lovely Miss Fairchild. Turns out that lady was bananas with a capital B. At first, it’s just Jessica, but she’s joined shortly after by Norah and Alicia, and the three form an unbreakable bond. It grows stronger when Amy arrives, as does Miss Fairchild’s crazy factor. The girls manage to engineer a breakout, but there are consequences to crossing a crazy lady. Like suddenly, poof, no Amy.

Years later, Jessica owns her own house-cleaning business where she steals pills from her clients, Alicia is a social worker trying to help foster kids like herself, and Norah is still always in trouble. The girls are called when a body is discovered buried in the basement of Wild Meadows, forcing them to rehash memories they thought were long buried.

The book is told from multiple POVs, from Jessica, Norah, Alicia, and an unnamed narrator, and bounces between the past and the present.

It’s really hard to write spoiler-free reviews of thrillers because I don’t want to inadvertently give anything away. But I’ll say this: that last chapter came out of LEFT FIELD for me. Not because I didn’t suspect who the unnamed narrator was (I did), but because I totally bought the original story. Not that it made me feel any better about it, but holy cow, Miss Fairchild is a psycho.

On sale now, you can grab your copy here. It’s available in KU and also as BOTM.

As always, I encourage you to read this book and form your own opinions, just as I have. Thank you to the author Sally Hepworth, the publisher St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for the ARC copy of this book.

The Guncle Abroad by Steven Rowley

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5

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GUP is back and he’s abroad! Patrick, Maisie, and Grant are bouncing around Europe as their dad prepares to remarry.

Set five years after the events of The Guncle, Patrick is trying to teach the kids about love as they struggle to accept their dad’s new soon-to-be wife.

The Guncle Abroad is chock-full of everything that I loved about the first book and more. The Guncle Rules are back, along with Guncle Love Languages.

Once again, I laughed, I teared up, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book.

The Guncle Abroad captures the essence of what it means to be a family, with all its imperfections and beauty.

Thank you so much to the author, Netgalley and the publisher Putnam Books for giving me this opportunity to read an ARC copy, especially because I loved The Guncle so much.

The Guncle is out now and you can grab your copy here.