5 stars Genre: Cozy mystery Molten Death A delightful mystery that transported me to the Big Island. I loved following Valerie, when her relaxing vacation with Kristen, goes sideways after spotting a dead body in the lava. Not only did this novel feature an unguessable whodunnit and whydunnit, but I appreciated the detailed insights about Hawaiian culture and history. Don’t forget to have snacks handy while you’re reading because this definitely made me hungry—for delicious eats … [Read more...]
Kirkus Reviews
April 12, 2023 Leave a Comment
Confession: I've always loved a good rewards chart. When I was in elementary school, my teacher ran a reading contest. The person who read the most number of books (and earned the most stickers) got a reward at the end of the school year. Since I adored reading, I took on the challenge--and zoomed ahead on the chart. At the end of the year, I won! My prize? A coveted gift card to the local bookstore. (Where I promptly went to purchase Anne of Green Gables books.) Today, after a year … [Read more...]
Book Review: Promophobia
February 23, 2023 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Non-fiction Promophobia An extensive collection of informative essays from Sisters in Crime members that really dive into book promotion, particularly for mystery writers. Filled with many tips and individual case studies, showcasing success…and failure. An invaluable guide for authors who want insight into marketing their work. Find more of my book ratings and reviews here. … [Read more...]
Book Review: Till Death Do Us Port
November 3, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Cozy Mystery Till Death Do Us Port (March 7, 2023) A delightful book. I love the strong cast of recurring characters that Lansing uses. It’s especially fun to have mother and daughter helping each other on this one. I also appreciated the maturity and growth that happens in Parker. What’s great about this book/series is that Parker gets to be philosophical, to sort things out, and to confront her fears. The premise behind this novel—a botched wedding—was done with … [Read more...]
Book Review: Under Lock & Skeleton Key
July 28, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Traditional Mystery/ Amateur Sleuth/ Impossible Crime Fascinating story. I particularly loved Tempest and her multicultural background with all the interesting family histories and global experiences. I also adored the centrality of magicians and illusions in this book. A gothic cozy, this novel offers a touch of the supernatural with the Raj family curse. It’s a new subgenre with interesting mystery possibilities. This is layered with an impossible crime, and I’m … [Read more...]
ICYMI: NYT
July 11, 2022 2 Comments
This is what nobody tells you about release week: you get very tired. It’s exhausting riding the wave of needing to respond to every comment and tag. (Apologies to anyone I missed!) That plus guesting on blogs and doing multiple book events. In the meantime, you’re biting your fingernails, hoping that all of this work actually translates into sales—or more accurately, readers. Is someone out there really enjoying your work? But there are times when the unbelievable happens. I was floored … [Read more...]
Book Review: Like A Sister
June 1, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Mystery/ Domestic suspense Like A Sister by Kellye Garrett This book left me guessing with its myriad twists and turns. Lena is clearly the star of the book, and I appreciated her observations and dry wit. I also enjoyed getting to know NYC a little more and all the insider tips and details. The family dynamics are done really well in this story—the complicated relationships we have with dear ones around us. Technology is interwoven in a smart way throughout this … [Read more...]
Book Review: Secret Identity
May 3, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Mystery/ Noir elements Secret Identity by Alex Segura Such a good book. The beginning really immerses you in gritty, historic NYC as well as the comic book industry. Take time to soak up the noir atmosphere of Carmen’s world. I loved how Carmen was such a complex character, and her reminiscences only made the story stronger. Of special delight were the comic book panels (if only they’d been in color!) to really reflect the Lynx character. A wonderful book that … [Read more...]
Book Review: The Tokyo Zodiac Murders
March 21, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: Impossible Crime/Locked-Room Mystery The Tokyo Zodiac Murders Intricately deceiving. The letter that sets up the stage is hard to decipher, but the puzzle aspects continue at a rapid pace for the rest of the novel. I think if I had a better grasp of Japanese history and geography, it would have been even more fascinating. Shimada did an amazing job of creating a puzzler of a story. There were so many moving parts. My only minor issue is that there’s a lot of … [Read more...]
Book Review: Trouble Is What I Do
February 15, 2022 Leave a Comment
5 stars Genre: P.I./noir Trouble Is What I Do A pleasure to read. I love all the various characters and how unique they are. This book really shines a light on today’s world and racist attitudes. Although sometimes Leonid goes back and forth in time, I found the histories mostly fascinating. Mosley does a great job of teasing out both nuanced and fierce family relationships. Find more of my book ratings and reviews here. … [Read more...]
