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Recommend this book:
Catering to the Dead
Cupcake Catering Mystery Series Book 8
Kim Davis
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Catering to the Dead by Kim Davis is the eighth book in the Cupcake Catering Mystery series. Emory is the cupcake caterer everybody wants for their party, which is how she ended up working the Día de los Muertos party, where she ends up dealing with a decades-old tragedy. Despite the joy and delicious cupcakes, Emory still manages to stumble upon a dead body, which gives her the great misfortune of being a prime suspect. She teams up with her future grandma-in-law and looks to her friends for guidance as she dips into a world of blackmail and uncovers shocking secrets. But as she races after the truth, the real killer may be playing their own game, willing to do whatever they can to stay hidden, which could prove dangerous for Emory.
Emory is a delightful sleuth whose curiosity and cleverness drive her forward, putting her in the middle of another case. Her personality pairs nicely with the other characters, specifically her future grandmother-in-law. Every moment between them is always a touch comedic, and you never quite know what to expect. Emory’s relationship with Brian continues to be a fun element of the series, with the hype for their upcoming wedding continuously built up. The Day of the Dead creates a delightful theme for the story, both for her catering and for the mystery. This comes with a few details, such as Emory running into a skeleton in the beginning. But the story isn’t about the festivities, it’s about the family hosting the celebration. Kim Davis always manages to humanize the supporting characters in a way that makes it easy to understand them. For this family, a tragedy that happened in the past still haunts them in the present. This is where we find Emory diving into blackmail and secrets, which puts her once again potentially squaring off with danger. Despite the danger lurking around her, the story remains upbeat throughout and has the same attitude as the previous installments in the series. Catering to the Dead is a charming read that is absolutely perfect for cozy lovers, as Davis once again delivers a fun and engaging mystery.
Catering to the Dead by Kim Davis is the eighth book in the Cupcake Catering Mystery series. Emory is the cupcake caterer everybody wants for their party, which is how she ended up working the Día de los Muertos party, where she ends up dealing with a decades-old tragedy. Despite the joy and delicious cupcakes, Emory still manages to stumble upon a dead body, which gives her the great misfortune of being a prime suspect. She teams up with her future grandma-in-law and looks to her friends for guidance as she dips into a world of blackmail and uncovers shocking secrets. But as she races after the truth, the real killer may be playing their own game, willing to do whatever they can to stay hidden, which could prove dangerous for Emory.
Emory is a delightful sleuth whose curiosity and cleverness drive her forward, putting her in the middle of another case. Her personality pairs nicely with the other characters, specifically her future grandmother-in-law. Every moment between them is always a touch comedic, and you never quite know what to expect. Emory’s relationship with Brian continues to be a fun element of the series, with the hype for their upcoming wedding continuously built up. The Day of the Dead creates a delightful theme for the story, both for her catering and for the mystery. This comes with a few details, such as Emory running into a skeleton in the beginning. But the story isn’t about the festivities, it’s about the family hosting the celebration. Kim Davis always manages to humanize the supporting characters in a way that makes it easy to understand them. For this family, a tragedy that happened in the past still haunts them in the present. This is where we find Emory diving into blackmail and secrets, which puts her once again potentially squaring off with danger. Despite the danger lurking around her, the story remains upbeat throughout and has the same attitude as the previous installments in the series. Catering to the Dead is a charming read that is absolutely perfect for cozy lovers, as Davis once again delivers a fun and engaging mystery.
Recommend this book:
The Doctor's Reckoning
Arsheeya Mashaw; Ari Mashaw
2026 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
When Cyrus Darian saves Brent's life, he has no idea how his actions will affect his own life. Brent unexpectedly dies, and Cyrus is left to inform Brent's commune members of his passing. Cyrus receives a lukewarm welcome at Reckoning Grove, and some residents are even hostile. Cyrus, driven by his medical background, attempts to identify other group members with symptoms similar to Brent's. He decides to stay a while at Reckoning Grove and experience their unique lifestyle. When another member of the group dies, the urgency to find out what is going on increases. Are the conspiracy theorists in the commune looking in the wrong place? Could someone in their midst be responsible? The Doctor's Reckoning by Arsheeya Mashaw and Ari Mashaw is a thrilling mystery with a fresh approach to the genre.
Arsheeya Mashaw and Ari Mashaw have written a fast-paced, tension-filled mystery. The main character's backstory and history are shared through flashbacks and conversation. Among the many themes the authors touch on is the theme of seeking redemption. The novel also focuses on preconceptions and prejudice. People tend to make assumptions about others without getting to know them or their situation. The commune offers a space for people who want to disconnect and live in peace, involving the theme of trust. When different people live together as a family, how do you know you can really trust them? How do you protect yourself when you don't even know what you have to protect yourself from? The Doctor's Reckoning stands out not just for its mystery. Cyrus is nothing like the typical Reacher-style hero, yet he's just as compelling—resourceful, flawed, and undeniably human. It's a smart, engaging story and a promising start to a series with its own distinct voice.
When Cyrus Darian saves Brent's life, he has no idea how his actions will affect his own life. Brent unexpectedly dies, and Cyrus is left to inform Brent's commune members of his passing. Cyrus receives a lukewarm welcome at Reckoning Grove, and some residents are even hostile. Cyrus, driven by his medical background, attempts to identify other group members with symptoms similar to Brent's. He decides to stay a while at Reckoning Grove and experience their unique lifestyle. When another member of the group dies, the urgency to find out what is going on increases. Are the conspiracy theorists in the commune looking in the wrong place? Could someone in their midst be responsible? The Doctor's Reckoning by Arsheeya Mashaw and Ari Mashaw is a thrilling mystery with a fresh approach to the genre.
Arsheeya Mashaw and Ari Mashaw have written a fast-paced, tension-filled mystery. The main character's backstory and history are shared through flashbacks and conversation. Among the many themes the authors touch on is the theme of seeking redemption. The novel also focuses on preconceptions and prejudice. People tend to make assumptions about others without getting to know them or their situation. The commune offers a space for people who want to disconnect and live in peace, involving the theme of trust. When different people live together as a family, how do you know you can really trust them? How do you protect yourself when you don't even know what you have to protect yourself from? The Doctor's Reckoning stands out not just for its mystery. Cyrus is nothing like the typical Reacher-style hero, yet he's just as compelling—resourceful, flawed, and undeniably human. It's a smart, engaging story and a promising start to a series with its own distinct voice.
Recommend this book:
The Crown for Castlewood Manor
My American Almost Royal Cousin Series
Veronica Cline Barton
2026 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Peggy Jo Wipf for Readers' Favorite
The Crown for Castlewood Manor: My American Almost Royal Cousin Series has mystery, murder, and romance; all with a twist of British mystique. Veronica Cline Barton presents us with Gemma Lancaster Phillips, who just experienced two major events in her life; receiving her doctorate degree and ending her relationship with the man she had been dating for the last two years. Then Evan, her British cousin, asks her to come over to help them win a competition to use Cherrywood Hall in a new TV series. As the competition turns deadly, the killer becomes baffled at the protection Gemma appears to have at all times. Some would say she has a guardian angel, while those from Cherrywood Hall believe Aunt Pippa's ghost has been looking out for her.
I found The Crown for Castlewood Manor mysteriously thrilling. Written as a mystery, this novel keeps you in suspense until the very end as to who could be the killer, or killers. This story doesn't just hold one mystery and the reader will find they are eager to discover hidden riches, secret tunnels, proper romance, and of course which estate actually wins the competition. Veronica Cline Barton does an excellent job combining American and British traditions in this family tale, though the touch of a devoted ghost gives this story a classic feel. The relationships between the Lancaster family members reflect a close family tie, though they are separated by an ocean. Their love and protection for each other is unusual, as it is lacking in the other families. Barton artfully twisted the end of the book, leaving the reader delighted when all the loose ends are tied up.
The Crown for Castlewood Manor: My American Almost Royal Cousin Series has mystery, murder, and romance; all with a twist of British mystique. Veronica Cline Barton presents us with Gemma Lancaster Phillips, who just experienced two major events in her life; receiving her doctorate degree and ending her relationship with the man she had been dating for the last two years. Then Evan, her British cousin, asks her to come over to help them win a competition to use Cherrywood Hall in a new TV series. As the competition turns deadly, the killer becomes baffled at the protection Gemma appears to have at all times. Some would say she has a guardian angel, while those from Cherrywood Hall believe Aunt Pippa's ghost has been looking out for her.
I found The Crown for Castlewood Manor mysteriously thrilling. Written as a mystery, this novel keeps you in suspense until the very end as to who could be the killer, or killers. This story doesn't just hold one mystery and the reader will find they are eager to discover hidden riches, secret tunnels, proper romance, and of course which estate actually wins the competition. Veronica Cline Barton does an excellent job combining American and British traditions in this family tale, though the touch of a devoted ghost gives this story a classic feel. The relationships between the Lancaster family members reflect a close family tie, though they are separated by an ocean. Their love and protection for each other is unusual, as it is lacking in the other families. Barton artfully twisted the end of the book, leaving the reader delighted when all the loose ends are tied up.
Recommend this book:
Bryan's Bluff
Alex Abrams Mystery Thriller Book 1
CD Sharpe
2026 Silver Medal
247 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Bryan’s Bluff by C.D. Sharpe is a gripping mystery thriller that follows Alex Abrams, a fiercely resilient homicide detective, as she returns to her hometown of Summer Haven, Arkansas, to uncover the truth behind the suspicious death of her childhood friend, Shawn. What begins as a personal quest quickly spirals into a chilling investigation of multiple deaths, revealing the presence of a cunning serial killer operating in the shadows of the small town. Sharpe masterfully blends suspense, emotional depth, and action, creating a thrilling and heartfelt narrative. Alex is a compelling character whose strength and vulnerability make her an admirable figure. Her bond with her twin brother, Lucca, adds humanity to the story, providing moments of levity and warmth.
The pacing is relentless, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. C.D. Sharpe’s vivid descriptions and attention to detail immerse readers in the setting, from the serene beauty of Summer Haven to the eerie confines of the morgue. The author’s background as a Gulf War veteran and former K9 search and rescue leader lends authenticity to the procedural elements, enhancing the realism of the investigation. Themes of loss, resilience, and justice are woven throughout the narrative, giving the story emotional weight. Sharpe also addresses the challenges faced by veterans and first responders. The inclusion of resources for suicide prevention and support at the end of the book underscores the author’s commitment to raising awareness about these important issues. Bryan’s Bluff is a must-read for fans of mystery thrillers who enjoy strong characters, intricate plots, and a touch of heart.
Bryan’s Bluff by C.D. Sharpe is a gripping mystery thriller that follows Alex Abrams, a fiercely resilient homicide detective, as she returns to her hometown of Summer Haven, Arkansas, to uncover the truth behind the suspicious death of her childhood friend, Shawn. What begins as a personal quest quickly spirals into a chilling investigation of multiple deaths, revealing the presence of a cunning serial killer operating in the shadows of the small town. Sharpe masterfully blends suspense, emotional depth, and action, creating a thrilling and heartfelt narrative. Alex is a compelling character whose strength and vulnerability make her an admirable figure. Her bond with her twin brother, Lucca, adds humanity to the story, providing moments of levity and warmth.
The pacing is relentless, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing until the very end. C.D. Sharpe’s vivid descriptions and attention to detail immerse readers in the setting, from the serene beauty of Summer Haven to the eerie confines of the morgue. The author’s background as a Gulf War veteran and former K9 search and rescue leader lends authenticity to the procedural elements, enhancing the realism of the investigation. Themes of loss, resilience, and justice are woven throughout the narrative, giving the story emotional weight. Sharpe also addresses the challenges faced by veterans and first responders. The inclusion of resources for suicide prevention and support at the end of the book underscores the author’s commitment to raising awareness about these important issues. Bryan’s Bluff is a must-read for fans of mystery thrillers who enjoy strong characters, intricate plots, and a touch of heart.
Recommend this book:
Mai Tai Malice
Kalliope Brooks Mysteries Book 3
Tanya Westlake
2026 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Mai Tai Malice is the third book in the Kalliope Brooks Mysteries by Tanya Westlake. The author plunges readers into the vibrant energy of Tampa's Gasparilla Parade, where amateur detectives Kalliope Brooks and Tess Russo face their most challenging case yet. When a murder disrupts the festivities and Kallie finds herself the prime suspect, the stakes become intensely personal. Together with her partner Tess and an unexpected ally, she must navigate through a maze of deception and danger to uncover the victim's shadowy past. This sun-drenched mystery combines the thrill of investigation with the rich cultural backdrop of Tampa's historic district, creating a story that's as much about place as it is about crime.
Author Tanya Westlake's truly gripping narrative kept me guessing until the final revelation and had plenty of interesting twists and interpersonal drama along the way. Her writing brings Tampa's historic streets to life with authentic details that create an atmosphere of adventure and suspense but never overwhelm the story's momentum or Kallie's central emotional journey. The chemistry between Kallie and Tess drives the narrative forward, and their clever dialogue adds moments of lightness to balance the darker elements of the mystery with some levity and a glimmer of hope. Westlake builds tension through carefully placed clues and red herrings, creating a puzzle that challenges both the characters and readers, and the narrative is brilliantly focused so that readers sit on Kallie's shoulder and discover things with her instead of simply being told what's what. The character development also shines through in the ensemble cast of potential suspects with clever subterfuge in every interaction, revealing new layers of personality and potential criminal motivation that enrich the overall story. I enthusiastically recommend Mai Tai Malice to anyone who enjoys intelligent mysteries with strong characters and a vivid sense of place.
Mai Tai Malice is the third book in the Kalliope Brooks Mysteries by Tanya Westlake. The author plunges readers into the vibrant energy of Tampa's Gasparilla Parade, where amateur detectives Kalliope Brooks and Tess Russo face their most challenging case yet. When a murder disrupts the festivities and Kallie finds herself the prime suspect, the stakes become intensely personal. Together with her partner Tess and an unexpected ally, she must navigate through a maze of deception and danger to uncover the victim's shadowy past. This sun-drenched mystery combines the thrill of investigation with the rich cultural backdrop of Tampa's historic district, creating a story that's as much about place as it is about crime.
Author Tanya Westlake's truly gripping narrative kept me guessing until the final revelation and had plenty of interesting twists and interpersonal drama along the way. Her writing brings Tampa's historic streets to life with authentic details that create an atmosphere of adventure and suspense but never overwhelm the story's momentum or Kallie's central emotional journey. The chemistry between Kallie and Tess drives the narrative forward, and their clever dialogue adds moments of lightness to balance the darker elements of the mystery with some levity and a glimmer of hope. Westlake builds tension through carefully placed clues and red herrings, creating a puzzle that challenges both the characters and readers, and the narrative is brilliantly focused so that readers sit on Kallie's shoulder and discover things with her instead of simply being told what's what. The character development also shines through in the ensemble cast of potential suspects with clever subterfuge in every interaction, revealing new layers of personality and potential criminal motivation that enrich the overall story. I enthusiastically recommend Mai Tai Malice to anyone who enjoys intelligent mysteries with strong characters and a vivid sense of place.
Recommend this book:
Symphony Of Lies
An Emma Bally Thriller Book 1
Maria Monday
2026 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite
A Symphony of Lies by Maria Monday is a psychological thriller about deception, betrayal, and greed. Emma, a very gifted investigative journalist, is regrouping in her apartment in the Swiss Alps when she receives a letter. Nicole, her stepmother, has died. Shocked and deeply saddened, Emma is even more bewildered when she discovers that she is one of the beneficiaries in Nicole’s will. At the reading, she meets a few interesting characters and makes another shocking discovery— Nicole’s death was a suicide. But Nicole’s story is not yet finished. Speaking from the grave, Nicole leaves cryptic clues for Emma to decipher and truths that lead her on a very dangerous path. Accompanying Emma is her dog, Max, and her loyal, beloved friend, Angela, whom she entrusts with her life. But Emma is about to dabble in a dangerous game where murder occurs at the snap of a finger or a whispered word.
A Symphony of Lies has an intriguing plot with twists and turns that not even seasoned readers will guess. Conniving characters hiding behind equally conniving plans, this engrossing novel will have you suspicious of your own shadow. I enjoyed Emma and her cute dog’s mental banter; It made me laugh and love Max all the more. A show-off, he loved his walks and taking pictures with adoring strangers. Angela is the friend every girl should have; she offered tremendous support to Emma, who desperately needed it. I loved Maria Monday’s unique narrative style and the way she presented Emma, whose quick wit and emphatic nature drew me to her. I was immediately drawn in by the intriguing writing and couldn’t put it down. Emma’s self-actualization and acceptance of herself were admirable, and I feel a lot can be learned from her journey. Readers are sure to enjoy A Symphony of Lies as the surprises are truly shocking and the revelations mind-boggling.
A Symphony of Lies by Maria Monday is a psychological thriller about deception, betrayal, and greed. Emma, a very gifted investigative journalist, is regrouping in her apartment in the Swiss Alps when she receives a letter. Nicole, her stepmother, has died. Shocked and deeply saddened, Emma is even more bewildered when she discovers that she is one of the beneficiaries in Nicole’s will. At the reading, she meets a few interesting characters and makes another shocking discovery— Nicole’s death was a suicide. But Nicole’s story is not yet finished. Speaking from the grave, Nicole leaves cryptic clues for Emma to decipher and truths that lead her on a very dangerous path. Accompanying Emma is her dog, Max, and her loyal, beloved friend, Angela, whom she entrusts with her life. But Emma is about to dabble in a dangerous game where murder occurs at the snap of a finger or a whispered word.
A Symphony of Lies has an intriguing plot with twists and turns that not even seasoned readers will guess. Conniving characters hiding behind equally conniving plans, this engrossing novel will have you suspicious of your own shadow. I enjoyed Emma and her cute dog’s mental banter; It made me laugh and love Max all the more. A show-off, he loved his walks and taking pictures with adoring strangers. Angela is the friend every girl should have; she offered tremendous support to Emma, who desperately needed it. I loved Maria Monday’s unique narrative style and the way she presented Emma, whose quick wit and emphatic nature drew me to her. I was immediately drawn in by the intriguing writing and couldn’t put it down. Emma’s self-actualization and acceptance of herself were admirable, and I feel a lot can be learned from her journey. Readers are sure to enjoy A Symphony of Lies as the surprises are truly shocking and the revelations mind-boggling.
Recommend this book:
Piña Colada Calamity
Kalliope Brooks Mysteries Book 2
Tanya Westlake
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Pina Colada Calamity by Tanya Westlake sets sail on the high seas in an epic murder mystery. Tess’s luck pays off when she calls in to a radio show and wins big with the adventure of a lifetime that she can’t wait to share with her best friend Kalli. A cruise is meant to be a time to relax and have fun but when someone winds up dead, the ship transforms into a crime scene. This can only mean one thing: there’s a killer on board. With help far away, the two friends are determined to uncover the truth and catch the killer. Though this is not their first mystery, it is their first time solving one on a ship, a task that comes with a variety of new and exciting challenges as well as danger.
Tanya Westlake has blended a murder with a delightful vacation to create an original mystery that is fun from the first page. The friendship between Kalli and Tess is a wholesome and endearing aspect of the story as the two play off each other well and give the story plenty of heart. Their clever banter and genuine loyalty are what make these two best friends lovable and make you want to join them for every stage of the adventure. There’s true joy in seeing these two friends chasing down a killer while also finding ways to enjoy the vacation and getting a thrill out of solving a mystery. The writing is charming with an ear for witty dialogue, thanks to fun word choices and delightful character interactions, not just between the friends but between the other characters as well. Pina Colada Calamity merges an adventurous cruise vacation with a murder mystery that has humor, heart, and plenty of fun friendship moments.
Pina Colada Calamity by Tanya Westlake sets sail on the high seas in an epic murder mystery. Tess’s luck pays off when she calls in to a radio show and wins big with the adventure of a lifetime that she can’t wait to share with her best friend Kalli. A cruise is meant to be a time to relax and have fun but when someone winds up dead, the ship transforms into a crime scene. This can only mean one thing: there’s a killer on board. With help far away, the two friends are determined to uncover the truth and catch the killer. Though this is not their first mystery, it is their first time solving one on a ship, a task that comes with a variety of new and exciting challenges as well as danger.
Tanya Westlake has blended a murder with a delightful vacation to create an original mystery that is fun from the first page. The friendship between Kalli and Tess is a wholesome and endearing aspect of the story as the two play off each other well and give the story plenty of heart. Their clever banter and genuine loyalty are what make these two best friends lovable and make you want to join them for every stage of the adventure. There’s true joy in seeing these two friends chasing down a killer while also finding ways to enjoy the vacation and getting a thrill out of solving a mystery. The writing is charming with an ear for witty dialogue, thanks to fun word choices and delightful character interactions, not just between the friends but between the other characters as well. Pina Colada Calamity merges an adventurous cruise vacation with a murder mystery that has humor, heart, and plenty of fun friendship moments.
Recommend this book:
A Perilous Premiere
Stone & Steel Mysteries Book 1
Gail Meath
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Nino Lobiladze for Readers' Favorite
A Perilous Premiere by Gail Meath, the first book in the Stone & Steel Mysteries, is a thrilling read for fans of historical mysteries, suspense, and detective novels. The book depicts two sides of life in California in the late 1930s. Glamorous facades often hide corruption, dishonesty, evil intentions, and even lust for murder. Vivian Steele loses her husband, George, during a shooting incident in a store. Vivian, a fashion designer and a boutique owner, starts her investigation and helps the police catch George's possible killer. Yet Vivian is not content and suspects the police arrested the wrong person. An unknown woman asks Vivian to meet her in a hotel suite. Arriving, she encounters Preston Stone, her adversary and a Hollywood socialite, who has also been invited. They find a murdered young actress, and Vivian sees a photo that shakes her to the core. George's secrets now threaten to destroy Vivian's life. Vivian and Preston must join forces to find a killer who plays wicked games with them both.
Gail Meath's A Perilous Premiere is a skillfully built mystery with multiple layers. It is a pleasure to uncover them and explore the characters. Vivian is bright, strong-willed, and determined to get justice. A puzzling enigma surrounds Vivian, and her best friend is none other than the great Carole Lombard! Vivian has a superpower akin to a photographic memory, which makes her character unforgettable. Preston's sarcastic attitude masks a brave and gentle heart. They are a dynamic team that is always ready for another witty exchange. The artfully written dialogue is one of the most appealing aspects of this book. Gail's expressive writing style finely conveys the emotional intensity of the narrative. The outstanding editorial work gives us an amazing read. The narrative is very well-paced, every chapter is straight to the point, and the plot's culmination is breathtaking. While this is an entertaining mystery, the author includes a substantive theme of trust. I cannot wait for Vivian and Preston's next adventure.
A Perilous Premiere by Gail Meath, the first book in the Stone & Steel Mysteries, is a thrilling read for fans of historical mysteries, suspense, and detective novels. The book depicts two sides of life in California in the late 1930s. Glamorous facades often hide corruption, dishonesty, evil intentions, and even lust for murder. Vivian Steele loses her husband, George, during a shooting incident in a store. Vivian, a fashion designer and a boutique owner, starts her investigation and helps the police catch George's possible killer. Yet Vivian is not content and suspects the police arrested the wrong person. An unknown woman asks Vivian to meet her in a hotel suite. Arriving, she encounters Preston Stone, her adversary and a Hollywood socialite, who has also been invited. They find a murdered young actress, and Vivian sees a photo that shakes her to the core. George's secrets now threaten to destroy Vivian's life. Vivian and Preston must join forces to find a killer who plays wicked games with them both.
Gail Meath's A Perilous Premiere is a skillfully built mystery with multiple layers. It is a pleasure to uncover them and explore the characters. Vivian is bright, strong-willed, and determined to get justice. A puzzling enigma surrounds Vivian, and her best friend is none other than the great Carole Lombard! Vivian has a superpower akin to a photographic memory, which makes her character unforgettable. Preston's sarcastic attitude masks a brave and gentle heart. They are a dynamic team that is always ready for another witty exchange. The artfully written dialogue is one of the most appealing aspects of this book. Gail's expressive writing style finely conveys the emotional intensity of the narrative. The outstanding editorial work gives us an amazing read. The narrative is very well-paced, every chapter is straight to the point, and the plot's culmination is breathtaking. While this is an entertaining mystery, the author includes a substantive theme of trust. I cannot wait for Vivian and Preston's next adventure.
Recommend this book:
Justice For The Forgotten
A Steel Wheels Cold Mystery
R Weir
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
Donnie is an ex-cop who runs a blog and gets all kinds of requests. In Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir, he gets one request that catches his eye, and, after a few replies, he decides to meet with the Riveras to hear about their case. After the meetup and some inquiries, Donnie realizes that the details of the case are fishy, from the intimidations to the shoddy investigations by Officer Warren. Enzo Rivera used to work in Rio Celeste before his untimely murder. The town of Rio Celeste is full of mysteries. They have their own paramilitary and do not recognize the authority of the state or federal government. How is everything connected, and will they succeed in stopping Donnie from continuing the investigation to give the Riveras the closure that they deserve?
Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir is a must-read! The writing is engaging and filled with well-crafted dialogue that brings the story and the well-developed characters to life. I loved the mystery and how Weir utilized suspense to great effect, which kept me on the edge of my seat and looking forward to the events of subsequent chapters. This thought-provoking work also got me thinking about the criminal justice system and how sometimes access to justice can be denied. The plot flowed seamlessly, leaving no room for confusion, and the reader will also appreciate the excellent narration, which adds to the overall beauty of this work. This was an amazing read, and I look forward to reading something else by this talented author.
Donnie is an ex-cop who runs a blog and gets all kinds of requests. In Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir, he gets one request that catches his eye, and, after a few replies, he decides to meet with the Riveras to hear about their case. After the meetup and some inquiries, Donnie realizes that the details of the case are fishy, from the intimidations to the shoddy investigations by Officer Warren. Enzo Rivera used to work in Rio Celeste before his untimely murder. The town of Rio Celeste is full of mysteries. They have their own paramilitary and do not recognize the authority of the state or federal government. How is everything connected, and will they succeed in stopping Donnie from continuing the investigation to give the Riveras the closure that they deserve?
Justice For The Forgotten by R. Weir is a must-read! The writing is engaging and filled with well-crafted dialogue that brings the story and the well-developed characters to life. I loved the mystery and how Weir utilized suspense to great effect, which kept me on the edge of my seat and looking forward to the events of subsequent chapters. This thought-provoking work also got me thinking about the criminal justice system and how sometimes access to justice can be denied. The plot flowed seamlessly, leaving no room for confusion, and the reader will also appreciate the excellent narration, which adds to the overall beauty of this work. This was an amazing read, and I look forward to reading something else by this talented author.
Recommend this book:
Unremembered
Christine Mager Wevik
2025 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Mystery - Murder
Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Unremembered by Christine Mager Wevik follows Brynn, a young wife and artist who suffers a brutal attack and, in the wake of her trauma, discovers a unique ability to see memories in old and abandoned houses. As she attempts to piece together her life, Brynn stumbles upon the name Sadie, a missing girl whose case seems intertwined with hers. Compelled to seek justice for herself and Sadie, Brynn’s journey leads her to explore abandoned homes, revealing haunting memories tied to her attackers while confronting the darker aspects of her past. As Brynn navigates the challenges of balancing her family life with her quest for truth, the tension builds, culminating in harrowing revelations about her and Sadie's experiences. Can she unravel the truth and find justice for herself and the mysterious Sadie?
Christine Mager Wevik’s characterization of Brynn is compelling; the author contrasts her strength and vulnerability, presenting the complex emotions of a survivor. The narrative explores Brynn's internal struggles and moral dilemmas, especially when confronting the question of justice versus revenge. The supporting characters, Sheriff Heller and Aggie, enhance the plot's depth, revealing various layers of complicity and innocence in the face of violence. Heller’s initially antagonistic demeanor toward Brynn highlights the indifference to victims' struggles, while Aggie represents the possibility of connection and understanding. The setting of rural Minnesota, especially the dilapidated houses, offers a metaphor for both physical and emotional decay. The fear and danger lurking within these abandoned structures heighten the sense of conflict in the story. Tension in Unremembered escalates with each chapter, intensifying Brynn's desperation for closure while uncovering the horrors in these houses. This tale is thrilling, and I enjoyed the paranormal elements, the rich prose, and the expert storytelling.
Unremembered by Christine Mager Wevik follows Brynn, a young wife and artist who suffers a brutal attack and, in the wake of her trauma, discovers a unique ability to see memories in old and abandoned houses. As she attempts to piece together her life, Brynn stumbles upon the name Sadie, a missing girl whose case seems intertwined with hers. Compelled to seek justice for herself and Sadie, Brynn’s journey leads her to explore abandoned homes, revealing haunting memories tied to her attackers while confronting the darker aspects of her past. As Brynn navigates the challenges of balancing her family life with her quest for truth, the tension builds, culminating in harrowing revelations about her and Sadie's experiences. Can she unravel the truth and find justice for herself and the mysterious Sadie?
Christine Mager Wevik’s characterization of Brynn is compelling; the author contrasts her strength and vulnerability, presenting the complex emotions of a survivor. The narrative explores Brynn's internal struggles and moral dilemmas, especially when confronting the question of justice versus revenge. The supporting characters, Sheriff Heller and Aggie, enhance the plot's depth, revealing various layers of complicity and innocence in the face of violence. Heller’s initially antagonistic demeanor toward Brynn highlights the indifference to victims' struggles, while Aggie represents the possibility of connection and understanding. The setting of rural Minnesota, especially the dilapidated houses, offers a metaphor for both physical and emotional decay. The fear and danger lurking within these abandoned structures heighten the sense of conflict in the story. Tension in Unremembered escalates with each chapter, intensifying Brynn's desperation for closure while uncovering the horrors in these houses. This tale is thrilling, and I enjoyed the paranormal elements, the rich prose, and the expert storytelling.
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