Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Iris Code by Anita Dickason plunges readers into the heart of a chilling mystery. Journalist Riley Phillips discovers a corpse on a canine training exercise, only for the body to vanish shortly after. Armed with her camera, her crime-scene instincts, and a tenacious cadaver dog named Milo, Riley finds herself entangled in a web of secrets that draw the attention of the elite FBI Tracker Unit. As Riley teams up with Tracker Cody Lightfoot, she’s pulled into a dangerous hunt to uncover the identity of the victim and the dark plot behind the murder. Dickason weaves a fast-paced, high-stakes thriller where journalism meets federal investigation, and where every photo might hold the key to the next twist. Smart, suspenseful, and full of heart, The Iris Code keeps readers guessing to the very end.

Author Anita Dickason has a keen sense of timing crucial to the way this brilliant novel is structured, and that results in a pulse-pounding blend of investigative journalism and suspense that is a cut above most of the genre. The attention to detail is everything in laying out interesting clues and surprising conversations that always make sense in the end. Dickason delivers twist after twist with expert precision in a confident, strong narrative voice. For a thriller this complex, there’s never a moment when I had to double back or check anything because the right reminders are always in place. Riley’s dialogue and thought process make you feel like you’re solving the plot right on her shoulder. She’s also impressively brought to life as a tough, relatable heroine with brains and grit. Milo is a great dog, adding much-needed levity in a genuinely dark story. Overall, I’d certainly recommend The Iris Code to fans of crime thrillers. Readers will surely want more of Riley and the Tracker Unit, so I can’t wait to see where this series goes next.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Picospores by Ryan LeKodak, set in 2043, centers around an eclectic team led by Manar, with DJ, Ndidi, and others dealing with the resurgence of an advanced AI, Helene. The story follows Ndidi's investigation into her parents' deaths, suspicious of Helene's involvement. Another subplot involves Martin Bryan, a prosthetics researcher forced into developing bionic limbs while held captive. DJ, plagued by trivial assignments, begins to suspect a larger conspiracy at play. A significant development arises when Manar decides to merge his consciousness with another AI, Gaius, in a risky attempt to neutralize Helene. As the narrative progresses, the team faces a deluge of obstacles that range from AI drones to mysterious picospores. The team presses on to understand the complexity of the AI threat and devises strategies to thwart Helene's machinations, even as personal loyalties and sacrifices come into play.

In Picospores, the second book in the Paper War series by Ryan LeKodak, the fight from book one continues and it is an excellent continuation. The storyline is laden with LeKodak's ability to weave science into science fiction and use it to heighten the story beyond a simple AI uprising. The elements of manipulation raise the stakes in both the story and how a reader perceives them, like when Hermione realizes that Helene, who may have gained access to her father's research, could be using the picospores to control people like puppets. The tension extends to really well-done tech fight scenes and when an intense back-and-forth in José's relentless assault on the AI's defenses leads to the flickering of light on the Facility gate, I felt like I was there with them. Not everything goes to plan and the realistic facing of several failures leads to pivotal moments in the character arcs. When Chloe has a confrontation that, in no uncertain terms, expresses her anger and disappointment at the actions of others, the push for personal growth that comes only from stepping up in the face of danger adds a layer of fallibility and keeps the characters from being one dimensional. Once again, LeKodak delivers a multi-layered reading experience and with another cliffhanger ending, the hope that the next book comes out quickly is huge.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Warrior Pose by Susan Rogers and John Roosen is a high-stakes mystery that takes readers on a thrilling ride through New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes. Ric Peters is torn between his dangerous career and his future with Elaina as he embarks on a trip that quickly spirals into chaos. A mysterious skull discovered near his family home, an old friend’s disappearance, and Ric’s entanglement in a murder accusation set the stage for a relentless investigation. As past and present collide, Ric must uncover long-buried family secrets while dodging hitmen, environmental scandals, and deadly betrayals. With Ric’s parents caught in the crossfire and Elaina targeted by unseen enemies, the danger becomes deeply personal. Fast-paced and full of unexpected twists, Warrior Pose is an exhilarating mystery that keeps readers on edge until the very last page.

Authors Susan Rogers and John Roosen have pooled their very best concoctions of mystery and tension together for another brilliant Yoga Mat mystery. This one is a gripping thriller packed with intrigue, action, and stunning settings, just as I’d hoped it would be. I loved the richness of the characters, both new and returning, and there was plenty of nail-biting suspense as we see Ric put under dramatic and emotional strain when his loved ones are compromised by the investigation. The story unfolds naturally through dialogue and the cinematically described action scenes, and this masterfully written mystery has plenty of heart-pounding twists that feel realistic, thanks to the meticulous detail of the setup. The New Zealand landscape comes to life to add character and flavor of its own, matching the tone of every moment, whether it’s a quiet, clue-laden discovery or a sudden burst of dangerous activity. Overall, Warrior Pose is a highly recommended read that’s perfect for fans of complex family secrets and high-stakes investigations.

Reviewed by Zahid Sheikh for Readers' Favorite

Solitude by Alex Opanasiuk draws readers into the complicated lives of two sisters, Julia and Clarissa, as they navigate the challenges of mental illness, family loyalty, and personal healing. Most of the story unfolds inside their shared home, where Julia spends her days writing in her notebook, sometimes lost in deep thoughts, while Clarissa—her caregiver—struggles to help her cope. Their uneasy routine is shaken when Julia invites a troubled man named Stanley over for dinner, and Clarissa is forced to face her frustrations about being a caregiver. The story unfolds with conversations, uncomfortable silences, and glimpses into the characters’ pasts, revealing the ways each sister copes with pain and tries to move forward. Through moments of confrontation, reflection, and small gestures, the novel explores loneliness, family burdens, and the hope for connection.

Alex Opanasiuk's writing is thoughtful, detailed, and sometimes poetic, which gives a strong voice to each character’s feelings and struggles. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, with the focus on quiet moments and emotional exchanges rather than big action scenes. I found the dialogue realistic and raw, especially during tense or tender moments between the sisters. Each character is unique and troubled, bringing their fears and longings to life on the page. The themes of healing, forgiveness, and solitude are woven together with care, creating a mood that stays with you after reading. I enjoyed how the writing captures the complexity of mental health and family, and it made me reflect on the small acts of love and patience that help us through hard times. For anyone who likes fiction that is honest and emotionally deep, Solitude offers a moving and memorable read.

Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

An Old Soul by M. Kevin Hayden is a gripping narrative centered around Isaac André, a young African American who feels lost in his life in 1996 Chicago. Working at a video rental store, Isaac struggles with feelings of displacement, family responsibilities, and the quest for love. When he meets Noa Gayle—a captivating Canadian zookeeper—through an online chat room, their connection blossoms quickly despite Isaac's internal struggles with self-worth and the chaos of his environment. As their romance unfolds, they encounter the challenges of their respective backgrounds, revealing layers of deep emotion, synchronicity, and personal growth. The novel explores themes of identity, the desire for belonging, and the profound impact of love.

M. Kevin Hayden expertly intertwines the threads of synchronicity—seen in the recurring elements of birds, music, and art—to mirror Isaac's journey. The contrast between his mundane life and the surreal moments shared with Noa offers a rich exploration of authenticity and self-discovery. Characterization is exceptionally done. Isaac is profoundly shaped by his upbringing, having lost his mother at a young age and being raised by his grandparents. His character oscillates between confidence and insecurity, vividly depicted by his work interactions and romantic pursuits. With its heat and urban grit, the setting of Chicago comes to life in this mesmerizing tale. Noa, a symbol of light and hope, not only fascinates Isaac with her beauty but also stirs within him a longing for connection and understanding. An Old Soul is emotionally rich and psychologically grounded. This novel is one of the best literary works I have read this year, infused with realism and featuring fully fleshed-out and unforgettable characters.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

The Seed of Corruption: A Novel by A.I. Fabler is an action-packed conspiracy thriller with two powerful protagonists. Anton Faraday is a British wildlife painter who loves nature and wants to capture and beautify it in his art. However, things turn bad when someone makes a copy of one of his best paintings and makes money from it. Angry and desperate for answers, Anton packs his bags and travels to Vietnam to find the culprit. There he meets the pretty and fierce Caroline Brinkley, a freelance journalist on the hunt for her adoptive brother and a breakthrough story. They decide to travel together without knowing the SARS epidemic is ready to strike and make life hell for everyone in the country. Now, Anton and Caroline have to find what they are looking for, survive the epidemic, and come out of this ordeal in one piece. Seems impossible, right?

The suspense is alive in The Seed of Corruption. Author A.I. Fabler is a magician with words and storytelling. Some twists and turns make the story more entertaining, the dialogues are refreshing, and the character development is on point. There is not a moment where the reader is confused. The plot is intricate, intense, and packed full of action. You can feel when Anton is lost and feeling the pressure of being overwhelmed by his surroundings. The descriptions are evocative and vivid enough to make you feel like you are right next to Caroline and Anton. The two work together very well and make the perfect sleuth duo. The themes of art theft and missing family members run in the background as Anton and Caroline grow and develop. You can tell Fabler did a lot of research on the SARS epidemic in Vietnam and its surrounding countries and that enhances the reading experience. Loved it!

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Tree Pose: Yoga Mat Mysteries is penned by author duo Susan Rogers and John Roosen in the cozy mystery, crime thriller, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. We’re back with this fantastic series in a gripping tale set in Tasmania, Australia, where Ric Peters and Elaina Williams find themselves ensnared in a nightmare. As Devil's Island lives up to its ominous reputation, Ric confronts his own demons while facing the repercussions of a catastrophic mistake in Indonesia. With death closing in from all sides and a vengeful hitman on the prowl, Ric's past threatens to unravel his relationship with Elaina as they navigate corruption, secrets, and the specter of revenge.

Author team Susan Rogers and John Roosen have brought their very best suspense skills together to craft this fantastic narrative brimming with twists, secrets, and heart-pounding intrigue. The dynamic between Ric and Elaina is palpable, and I enjoyed the unique dialogue twists that characterize them both as well as their humor and the ways they challenged one another. The authors' vivid descriptions also extend into the vibrant setting of the novel, bringing the island to life with every sight, smell, sound, and sensation, and immersing readers in both the beauty and the shadows to match the tension of the plot. I found the mystery elements to be well-paced and varied with different ways of revealing clues, which certainly keeps you on your toes and guessing at the conclusions before Ric and Elaina start putting the pieces together. Overall, Tree Pose is a must-read for fans of mystery and suspense, offering a captivating blend of intrigue, romance, and adventure against the backdrop of Tasmania's mysterious allure.

Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite

Contention: A Novel of International Suspense and Intrigue by Gary D. McGugan introduces readers to Fidelia Morales, the leader of one of the most prominent groups in the sinister world of organized crime. Living under Fidelia's strict control, Howard Knight masterminded various crimes for her and her illicit organization. Howard wanted his freedom and asked Fidelia to give him a chance to create a new corporate espionage operation based on the island of Aruba. Suzanne Simpson, a wealthy, intelligent, and honorable woman, was the chief executive and owner of Multima Corporation but she was in the way of Fidelia and Howard's plans. Fidelia had always wanted to take over Multima Corporation, one of the biggest companies in the world, and was determined to accomplish her goal. Would Suzanne recognize the warning signs of imminent danger in time to protect her company?

Contention by Gary D. McGugan is an edge-of-your-seat thriller, and I was hooked from the first page. It was fast-paced and full of action. With all the twists and turns, I never knew what would happen next. There was always a surprise waiting around the corner. The characters were well developed. They were authentic and relatable. The stories of the three main characters were woven together intriguingly. Each character had a background story, and I got to know them better as a result. The story is well-written, and I was engrossed throughout. Reading this account was a nail-biting experience that had me guessing until the end. It was much more than I expected.

Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite

In Lily's Payback, a thriller by Andy Rose, while researching potential cheap fuel alternatives that could be commercially viable, Lily Ferguson's twin brother, Kyle Ferguson, was murdered. Lily touched Kyle's casket during his funeral and swore to her Scottish ancestors that she would get revenge. Lily met Bobby, Daniel, and Mimi, her fellow teachers at a school in New York City. The four were romantically involved and helped Lily through her loss. The man who killed Kyle was Russia's legendary figure, Zokov. After his mother was murdered, Zokov was left an orphan and had to fend for himself on the streets of Moscow. Bobby suggested that they ask his uncle for help when the police were unable to find the killer. Bobby's uncle knew what was happening in New York City's streets.

Lily’s Payback by Andy Rose is filled with drama, romance, mystery, and excitement. I found the descriptions of the various city areas interesting, and I had no trouble visualizing the places described in the story. It was an action-packed thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. The characters had considerably more depth, and their history played a significant role in who they were; they were not your usual villain and heroine type. In addition to their dedication to the teaching profession, the teachers in this story were also heroes outside the classroom. There were frequent descriptions of Zokov's past, and I better understood where he came from. Loyalty, bravery, and mystery were all skillfully combined in this well-written tale.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Two Hearts’ Christmas Wedding is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and slice-of-life genres, and is the twenty-second novel in the epic Two Hearts' Wounded Warrior romance series. It is best suited to mature readers owing to scenes of a sexual nature throughout. Penned by author Tamara Ferguson, in this latest novel, we meet Camille Laurent and Rafe Broussard as they experience their unique take on love at first sight during the holiday season. However, their bliss is disrupted by intrigue and drama when Camille discovers she has a stalker, and Rafe is recruited to aid the FBI domestic terrorism unit while serving as an Army Ranger. Will they ever achieve their happily-ever-after amidst these challenges?

Author Tamara Ferguson utilizes her many talents in deep characterization and sensational love stories to craft a captivating read filled with romance, suspense, and heartwarming moments. Camille and Rafe's love story unfolded against the backdrop of danger and uncertainty, with an ever-growing tension in their relationship that is highlighted by their emotional bond growing as well as the many harrowing and exciting challenges of the plot. Ferguson's skillful storytelling kept me engrossed with every brilliantly paced moment as I followed their journey, rooting for them to overcome the obstacles in their path to happiness thanks to the close narrative of both personalities. The dialogue really showcases their similarities and differences as they work through different issues, making them both seem like real people we’ve gotten to know and fallen for. This makes their triumphs and struggles feel genuine and relatable, grounding the plot in reality even when the stakes get daringly high around them, and keeping readers eagerly turning pages until the eventual mercy of a very heartwarming conclusion. Overall, Two Hearts’ Christmas Wedding was a delightful blend of romance and intrigue, showcasing Ferguson's talent for consistently crafting engaging and emotionally satisfying stories. I’d highly recommend this and the series in general to romance fans everywhere.