Reviewed by Jon Michael Miller for Readers' Favorite

The Storm Within by Gill D. Anderson is a murder mystery set on a contemporary Mediterranean cruise ship, the Ocean Breeze. Like an Agatha Christie tale, a group of characters is in a closed setting so that when the killing occurs, we are trying to figure out the culprit from a limited list of those motivated to have done the dirty deed. The author explores in detail the psychological backgrounds of each character’s past. Some characters are dissected before the crime and some after, and it’s clear that the author is trained in the field. The first characters we meet are Jake, the handsome young cruise director; Claire, his girlfriend of the moment; Vincent, an embittered and vengeful assistant; and Tia, a sexy young hustler who comes on to older men whom she and her pimp Tony blackmail. And so the list of future suspects grows.

I marveled at Gill D. Anderson’s skill in managing the extensive character list and their interrelationships while at the same time weaving in the exciting cruise atmosphere, food, entertainment, and several stops along the way such as Florence and Rome. When the murder finally takes place and investigators arrive, I was aware of the various rivalries and haters among the cast who might be the culprit. Then, as we are trying to figure it out, the author reveals the psychological backgrounds of the cast that might have led to the victim’s demise and also to the killer’s motivation. These background profiles are detailed and fascinating, leading to one of the novel’s profound queries: “Do we ever know anyone?” as everyone has deep psychological issues that they keep hidden but which account for their outward behavior. The Storm Within will keep you on your toes figuring out the killer and their motive. All the elements of a superb mystery and psychological thriller come together in a book I couldn’t put down.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Fertile Ground for Murder by Stella Sinclaire is an exciting murder mystery featuring Samantha Brewer, a true crime podcaster who returns to her quiet hometown in Iowa to find out who killed her old mentor, Ethan Green. This quickly turns into a story of greed, family secrets, and surprising betrayals, especially as Ethan has made enemies due to his strong beliefs about organic farming. Samantha soon realizes she has also stumbled into something more dangerous than she thought. Working with a journalist named Jenny Mack and her former boyfriend Jake Emerson, Samantha tries to solve the mystery before she becomes the next victim. The story takes readers through a complex maze of possible killers and reasons for murder that keeps them guessing until the very end.

Author Stella Sinclaire shows great writing skill in a mystery that works both as an old-fashioned whodunit and a modern story. I was really impressed by how she mixed issues about protecting the environment and corrupt big businesses into a traditional murder mystery, while still keeping the personal feel of a small-town story. Samantha is a main character who feels real - she's determined to solve the case but also shows her fears and doubts. Sinclaire describes Iowa farm countryside so well you can almost smell the corn fields and hear the screen doors squeaking. I liked how the personal relationships and professional detective work get tangled together in the plot and make everyone a possible suspect for different reasons. The story moves at just the right speed and the narrative brings out all the charms, but also the hidden dangers of small-town life while tackling bigger issues that matter today. Overall, I strongly recommend Fertile Ground for Murder to anyone who enjoys mysteries with strong characters and social issues.

Reviewed by Michelle Stanley for Readers' Favorite

In Parrot Prose, a mystery murder by D.L. Mitchell, veterinarian Dr. Emily Benton and her partner, Anthony, become concerned when Marilyn Pena doesn’t return to the clinic for her famous talkative African Grey parrot, Tiki Lulu. The parrot knows the clues to a nationwide treasure hunt hidden in wildlife sanctuaries. When Emily and Anthony go to Marilyn’s home, they find a man’s body and contact the police. Fans of Tiki Lulu and Marilyn gather outside the veterinary clinic and refuse to leave, and Chad, Marilyn’s nephew, becomes upset when he doesn’t get to take the parrot. Emily decides to do a bit of sleuthing to locate Marilyn, despite the warnings of her brother, the chief of police. She and Anthony become more concerned for the parrot’s safety after an attempted break-in and increased fans outside the clinic.

I enjoyed reading Parrot Prose by D.L. Mitchell and became fond of the adorable Tiki Lulu. It’s a captivating mystery that I found amusing due to Tiki Lulu's lively chatter with Anthony and the other characters. Emily Benton refuses to leave the investigative work to the police and always acts on impulse. Anthony is loyal and caring. One of the things I liked was the information that the author provided on each animal species Emily treated. I wasn’t aware of the similarities these animals had to human ailments, or how much care and love they need. The animal shelters and wildlife sanctuaries were also interesting as not only does the main theme include them but learning that they always need donations to help care for the animals that are sometimes abused. More volunteers are needed too. The story was suspenseful, giving hints as to where the treasure could be. Parrot Prose is a must-read.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Mushroom Blues is the first novel in The Hofmann Report series by Adrian M. Gibson. This science fiction murder mystery follows NKPD Detective Henrietta Hofmann and her mushroom-headed partner Koji Nameko. The island nation of Neo Kinoko, Hōppon, was struggling after a decade of Spore War. Now that the war had ended, the capital city was riddled with problems and crime. As the tension between fungal people and humans rose, Koji and Henrietta had their work cut out for them as the bodies of fungal people and half-breed children started to turn up. While the two partners didn’t get along that well, they had to set their differences aside to solve these murders before it was too late. But that was not all. To find out who it was, Henrietta had to embrace the fungal way and become part of the crowd, or else she and her partner would never find the culprit behind the murders. But was it possible?

Author Adrian M. Gibson started the story with a bang and made sure to keep the momentum going until the end. The story was incredible, to say the least. The universe (or the fungalverse as the author called it) was intricate, rich with details, and created to perfection. The world-building was fantastic, and the unique characters were equally interesting. The glossary at the beginning was a great addition, and that helped me get into the narrative. I loved Koji and his sarcastic ways. While he struggled with being part of the police department, he did a great job of finding justice for his people. Henrietta was battling in her own way, but the two complemented each other very well. I loved their chemistry, and I think we will see them grow closer in future novels. The fast pace was perfect, the unrelenting action was entertaining, and the story was outstanding. There was never a moment where it felt rushed. It was perfect from start to finish, and I cannot wait for the next novel in the series.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Race Into Murder is penned by author Karen Black in the sports, murder mystery, and intrigue subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience. The plot follows Jeff Frazier, a promising racehorse trainer whose dreams are shattered when his colt becomes entangled in a murder case. When a well-known jockey is killed and an innocent man is arrested, Jeff's aspirations turn into a nightmare. With the trial looming, the true culprit remains elusive, leading some in the close-knit racing community to take matters into their own hands. Amidst the chaos, the investigation uncovers dark secrets and ruthless individuals willing to do whatever it takes to come out on top, all while the races continue despite the turmoil.

Author Karen Black has crafted a truly exhilarating reading experience that weaves together the worlds of horse racing and crime thriller with really effective results. Jeff Frazier's journey from hopeful trainer to embattled protagonist captivated me, with strong characterization and a close narrative feel that keeps you invested in his personal journey. The intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, kept me guessing until the very end and had some great surprises, but everything was logical to the overall arc. Black expertly navigates the dynamics of a close-knit community, where alliances and rivalries run deep, adding layers of personality, reality, and complexity to the investigation. The suspenseful atmosphere heightened with each revelation, as the stakes escalated with the looming trial date. I loved how the descriptive language matched the setting to the mood. Overall, Race into Murder is a gripping tale of ambition, betrayal, and justice, showcasing Black's talent for crafting thrilling mysteries set against the backdrop of the racetrack, and I would certainly recommend it to mystery fans everywhere.

Reviewed by Vernita Naylor for Readers' Favorite

The fluffy white sandy beach is what makes Coral Shores a beautiful little town. Its small, quaint, and neighborly appeal is why the townspeople want to maintain the old historic Florida charm. Dr. Emily Benton became the town’s newest veterinarian once Dr. Dinsmore retired and sold the Coral Shores Veterinary Hospital to her. One day her life changed after she made a house visit to her former piano teacher, Mrs. Eliza Klein, whose pet terrier, Elvis, had a nasty cough. In Trust the Terrier: A Coral Shores Veterinary Mystery by DL Mitchell, when she returns to Mrs. Klein’s house to give Elvis’ diagnosis and instructions on how to administer his medication, Emily discovers Mrs. Klein dead in her den. Elvis was shaking and frantic and Emily knew that she must act quickly.

I loved reading Trust the Terrier by DL Mitchell and enjoyed how the author intertwined the relationship between Bella, a Maine Coon cat, and Elvis into the story. Their relationship added comic relief to this mystery. While Emily felt the need to care for Elvis and try to help solve the mystery behind Mrs. Klein’s death, Bella set out to avoid Elvis at all costs. Bella had no time to befriend and play with Elvis. Emily later discovers that maybe Elvis is the catalyst in helping her, her best friend, Anthony, her brother, Deputy Sheriff Duncan, and Detective Mike Lane discover the truth. Will Elvis be able to communicate to everyone about what happened and why or will this mystery go unsolved? Want to find out more? Get your copy of this book, sit back with your favorite beverage, and get ready to go on a wonderful journey.

Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite

In John Deal's terrifying mystery thriller, Under a Blood Moon, a serial rapist was terrorizing Charleston, South Carolina, and Detective CJ O'Hara was still plagued by her past. CJ feared another killer had started when she discovered a dead woman whose forehead was covered with a nasty dark-brown powder. The heart of the woman was discovered near the center of an oddly shaped circle marked with chalk and adorned with white candles. CJ believed that this may have something to do with full moon-related hoodoo rituals. A Gullah woman who has the gift of sight might be able to assist CJ in discovering the truth, but she does not want to share information with CJ. The next blood moon is approaching, but will CJ be able to apprehend the killer before he strikes once more?

John Deal's Under a Blood Moon explores the Gullah people's use of hoodoos, and at times the narrative was unsettling. It was difficult to put this book down because the story moved quickly and was a page-turner. With all the turns and twists, I was captivated from the beginning and kept guessing right up to the very end. I was constantly on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next due to the suspense. The chapters blended together well, and I liked how well-written the accounts of South Carolina and the Gullah people's traditions were. The characters were all relatable and realistic. Being a skilled investigator, CJ had to put her grief aside and use unusual methods to track down the killer. The book was a pleasure to read and was expertly written.

Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite

Kalliope Brooks, a bartender at a local bar in Owhiro, Florida, had a hard time coming to grips with the events of that fateful spring Saturday night. She had finished her night shift, only to find a dead body in her car. The police had identified the deceased as Alexandria Clemons who was the daughter of a tycoon. Things only got messier when the lead detective listed Kallie’s close friend Mike as the prime suspect in the murder case. This made no sense to Kallie, especially because there were a handful of other suspects, among them Alexandria’s fiancé and her landlord. With the help of her friend Tess and a crime blogger, Kallie was determined to discover everything behind the murder of Alexandria. Get yourself Tanya Westlake’s Bloody Mary, Bloody Murder to learn more.

Lovers of mystery murder novels will find Tanya Westlake’s Bloody Mary, Bloody Murder a compelling read. With an intriguing plot, Westlake creates an enthralling tale of gold-diggers, stalkers, snitches, sleuths, bloggers, news reporters, deceit, and money. While unfolding the storyline, Westlake adds mystery. Just when I thought I had solved a puzzle, the story would pick up the pace and head in a different direction. Westlake develops the protagonists wonderfully, highlighting their attributes and emotions. Kallie and Tess’s light-hearted banter, their clumsy ideas, and the unfazed neighbors with a crush on Kallie’s dad all made for hilarious scenes. There is suspense, drama, thrills, and humor in this book.

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Within the span of about 24 hours, Dan Wilcox finds that his mother has been murdered, his long-lost father is dead, and Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead has had a fatal heart attack. It is the last of those three that finally makes him cry. And so begins Victim or the Crime - The Day Before Jerry Died by Paul Sanders. The book weaves between the events of Dan's childhood that led to his separation from his sister and mother, his father's abandonment, and his meaningful relationship with his brother Mark. Dan's youth is fraught with abuse, neglect, and outright contempt from those whose love is of the utmost importance. All of this is hinged on the fact that his mother's murder looks a lot like it was done by him. Dan has no recollection of what transpired. While on the run, Dan seeks answers, and the backstory of his life and that of his family unfurls itself, painting a picture of a troubled man who finds professional redemption but still grapples with the ghosts of the past, who is in the biggest trouble of his life once again.

"The Grateful Dead tune playing right now? It's called, Mama Tried. Want me to turn it up?" There is a scene where Dan's mother nearly kills his sister Louise in a violent rage that is absolutely heartbreaking, and as a reader, I had this uncomfortable moment where I was convinced that Mom deserved to have a knife thrust into her horrible neck. This is when you know a novel is an excellently crafted piece of literature as the ability to justify a violent death is no easy feat, but Paul Sanders gets the job done in Victim or the Crime. Based on the title, I expected going in that the events would be replayed in their entirety within a courtroom setting and through the primary point of view of a juror. I understand now the significance of the title but readers should note, to the book's extreme benefit, that this isn't the case (no pun intended). The point of view is largely omniscient when Dan's childhood is depicted, wherein scenes like the one mentioned occur in detail and Dan is then called from upstairs. These are the retellings that have the feeling of being for a juror's benefit, but from Dan's perspective, we do experience his search for answers, which happens alongside his therapist Diana who becomes a fugitive with him. Jerry Garcia and The Grateful Dead are never too far off in the background, and this murder mystery is one of the most beautifully twisted works I've read this year. Very highly recommended.

Reviewed by Ronél Steyn for Readers' Favorite

Blood on the Bayou by Douglas J. Wood is a thriller of note. New Orleans’ French Quarter is plagued by a serial killer. The Bayou Slasher slits the victim’s throat, carves 3 X’s on the forehead, puts a wooden cross in their hand, and normally leaves no evidence at the scene. The police find DNA at the latest one and arrest the man they believe to be the killer. All the signs point to someone steeped in Voodoo. This is when Agent DiMeglio from the FBI contacts them to inform them they have the wrong man. As one of the best profilers, he uses his skills to uncover the motives for the murders and also discover who the true killer is.

Douglas J. Wood has created an amazing pot of Cajun cuisine of his own with just the correct amount of information in Blood on the Bayou. I was intrigued from the very first bite. The assortment of characters was a perfect blend, and the dialogue was just informative enough to keep me speculating as to who the real killer was for the entire time. With each glorious bite, I found myself wanting more. I would gladly recommend this book to more mature readers due to the violent content of this story. The psychological aspect is also interesting, especially with the ever-present curiosity concerning the serial killer’s mindset. This book will have you guessing over and over in different directions. When you reach the end, you will be guessing even more.