BookAwards.com
Award-Winning Books from Today's Best Authors
A Free Resource for Book Lovers, Authors, Agents, Publishers and Journalists
Recommend this book:
In Plain Sight
Finding Faith
Leslea Wahl
2025 Honorable Mention
174 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by David Jaggart for Readers' Favorite
In Plain Sight by Leslea Wahl centers around the life of 16-year-old Emerson and her father, Brad. In light of a family tragedy, Emerson and Brad relocate to Minnesota—from Missouri—due to her father's new job. She isn't pleased about moving to a remote location in the cold month of January. Nonetheless, the small family of two and their adorable dog, Zuri, head to their new hometown. In Minnesota, Brad is tasked with helping to refurbish an old, abandoned lodge. Slowly but surely, Emerson acclimatizes to life in her new environment. She becomes intrigued by Reid, a handsome local boy. Their friendship transforms into a budding romance as they jointly attempt to solve an ancient mystery connected to the lodge Brad is working on. At the same time, Emerson is experiencing inner conflict regarding her faith. Can she and Reid solve the mystery surrounding the lodge? Will her faith be renewed in the process?
In Plain Sight by Leslea Wahl is a compelling YA adventure that blends Christianity, action, mystery, and romance into the storyline. The narrative is exciting and engaging, making this a must-read for fans of the genre. The pacing is perfectly maintained from beginning to end. Wahl flawlessly incorporates several mysteries and unexpected twists into the plot, keeping readers in suspense throughout the book. I love that the author gradually reveals more and more about Emerson, her dilemma, and the reasoning behind her wavering faith as the story progresses. This gives readers ample time to immerse themselves in Emerson's world and identify with her struggles and experiences as a teen. Zuri's quirky and hilarious antics stole the spotlight in a magnificent way, making this novel a gem. The ending was a treat! A delightful read.
In Plain Sight by Leslea Wahl centers around the life of 16-year-old Emerson and her father, Brad. In light of a family tragedy, Emerson and Brad relocate to Minnesota—from Missouri—due to her father's new job. She isn't pleased about moving to a remote location in the cold month of January. Nonetheless, the small family of two and their adorable dog, Zuri, head to their new hometown. In Minnesota, Brad is tasked with helping to refurbish an old, abandoned lodge. Slowly but surely, Emerson acclimatizes to life in her new environment. She becomes intrigued by Reid, a handsome local boy. Their friendship transforms into a budding romance as they jointly attempt to solve an ancient mystery connected to the lodge Brad is working on. At the same time, Emerson is experiencing inner conflict regarding her faith. Can she and Reid solve the mystery surrounding the lodge? Will her faith be renewed in the process?
In Plain Sight by Leslea Wahl is a compelling YA adventure that blends Christianity, action, mystery, and romance into the storyline. The narrative is exciting and engaging, making this a must-read for fans of the genre. The pacing is perfectly maintained from beginning to end. Wahl flawlessly incorporates several mysteries and unexpected twists into the plot, keeping readers in suspense throughout the book. I love that the author gradually reveals more and more about Emerson, her dilemma, and the reasoning behind her wavering faith as the story progresses. This gives readers ample time to immerse themselves in Emerson's world and identify with her struggles and experiences as a teen. Zuri's quirky and hilarious antics stole the spotlight in a magnificent way, making this novel a gem. The ending was a treat! A delightful read.
Recommend this book:
Missing Mom
Lynn Slaughter
2025 Bronze Medal
294 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
When seventeen-year-old Noelle Ehrlich, an aspiring ballet dancer, is asked to pick up her younger sister, Whitney, from day camp because their mother, Joanna, has not, she immediately knows something is wrong. This was so unlike their mother. After several failed attempts to reach her, Noelle files a missing persons report. Barely a day later, the police find Joanna’s car and a note that reads “I’m sorry” at a beach more than three hours from their town. From the look of the scene, the police believe Joanna has committed suicide. Everyone else seems to agree with this, except for Noelle. It did not make sense to her. Determined to uncover what has happened to her mother, Noelle embarks on an investigation that leads her to Joanna’s secret and dark past. What does Noelle discover? Find out in Lynn Slaughter’s Missing Mom.
Once this page-turner draws you in, it is relentless, not loosening its grip until the final word. Lynn Slaughter’s Missing Mom is a must-read for fans of young adult coming-of-age mystery novels blended with romantic intrigue. Featuring a fascinating cast, Slaughter weaves an intriguing plot that sets the stage for a gripping tale of secrets, trauma, high school, and teenage drama, a budding romance, abuse, and more. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and plot twists hooked me. The evocative depictions brought the scenes to life on the pages. The layered, sharp, and lively conversations gave depth to the dynamic, compelling cast’s conflicts, intricate emotions, and complex traits, allowing me to connect with them. Slaughter is undoubtedly a gifted author. I loved this book.
When seventeen-year-old Noelle Ehrlich, an aspiring ballet dancer, is asked to pick up her younger sister, Whitney, from day camp because their mother, Joanna, has not, she immediately knows something is wrong. This was so unlike their mother. After several failed attempts to reach her, Noelle files a missing persons report. Barely a day later, the police find Joanna’s car and a note that reads “I’m sorry” at a beach more than three hours from their town. From the look of the scene, the police believe Joanna has committed suicide. Everyone else seems to agree with this, except for Noelle. It did not make sense to her. Determined to uncover what has happened to her mother, Noelle embarks on an investigation that leads her to Joanna’s secret and dark past. What does Noelle discover? Find out in Lynn Slaughter’s Missing Mom.
Once this page-turner draws you in, it is relentless, not loosening its grip until the final word. Lynn Slaughter’s Missing Mom is a must-read for fans of young adult coming-of-age mystery novels blended with romantic intrigue. Featuring a fascinating cast, Slaughter weaves an intriguing plot that sets the stage for a gripping tale of secrets, trauma, high school, and teenage drama, a budding romance, abuse, and more. The edge-of-the-seat suspense and plot twists hooked me. The evocative depictions brought the scenes to life on the pages. The layered, sharp, and lively conversations gave depth to the dynamic, compelling cast’s conflicts, intricate emotions, and complex traits, allowing me to connect with them. Slaughter is undoubtedly a gifted author. I loved this book.
Recommend this book:
Beyond the Cemetery Gate
The Secret Keeper's Daughter
Valerie Biel
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Beyond the Cemetery Gate: The Secret Keeper’s Daughter by Valerie Biel presents a compelling mix of mystery, suspense, and emotion that will engage young adult readers. Sixteen-year-old Chloe’s unwavering determination to uncover the truth about her father’s death drives this riveting narrative. Set in a small town filled with secrets lurking in every shadow, the story skillfully intertwines family drama, danger, and the supernatural. When the police label her father’s death as an overdose, Chloe refuses to accept their conclusion. Her solitary quest for justice unfolds against a backdrop of tension balancing an unyielding social worker, the eerie solitude of a cemetery caretaker’s home, and the unsettling clues she uncovers about her father’s life. Chloe’s clever resourcefulness, including faking her aunt’s presence as her guardian, highlights her resilience and determination. Biel captivates readers with a world filled with looming danger, while hope ignites in surprising alliances.
The characters enrich the story, from the quirky diner owner to the enigmatic new classmate with a photographic memory. These relationships lend warmth and depth to the otherwise tense narrative. Chloe’s encounters with a benevolent spirit provide an intriguing supernatural element that enhances the mystery, adding layers to her investigation and emotional journey. Valerie Biel’s masterful prose creates a hauntingly atmospheric setting, making the cemetery a physical and emotional landscape of grief and discovery. The tension builds steadily as Chloe unravels her father’s hidden past, leading to startling yet satisfying revelations. The stakes rise dramatically when her fabricated guardian story is exposed, setting up a thrilling race against time. Beyond the Cemetery Gate is a standout mystery with its pacing, characters, and emotional conclusion. Biel crafts a story that explores loss, courage, and unbreakable family bonds, offering readers an unforgettable journey through the secrets beyond the gate.
Beyond the Cemetery Gate: The Secret Keeper’s Daughter by Valerie Biel presents a compelling mix of mystery, suspense, and emotion that will engage young adult readers. Sixteen-year-old Chloe’s unwavering determination to uncover the truth about her father’s death drives this riveting narrative. Set in a small town filled with secrets lurking in every shadow, the story skillfully intertwines family drama, danger, and the supernatural. When the police label her father’s death as an overdose, Chloe refuses to accept their conclusion. Her solitary quest for justice unfolds against a backdrop of tension balancing an unyielding social worker, the eerie solitude of a cemetery caretaker’s home, and the unsettling clues she uncovers about her father’s life. Chloe’s clever resourcefulness, including faking her aunt’s presence as her guardian, highlights her resilience and determination. Biel captivates readers with a world filled with looming danger, while hope ignites in surprising alliances.
The characters enrich the story, from the quirky diner owner to the enigmatic new classmate with a photographic memory. These relationships lend warmth and depth to the otherwise tense narrative. Chloe’s encounters with a benevolent spirit provide an intriguing supernatural element that enhances the mystery, adding layers to her investigation and emotional journey. Valerie Biel’s masterful prose creates a hauntingly atmospheric setting, making the cemetery a physical and emotional landscape of grief and discovery. The tension builds steadily as Chloe unravels her father’s hidden past, leading to startling yet satisfying revelations. The stakes rise dramatically when her fabricated guardian story is exposed, setting up a thrilling race against time. Beyond the Cemetery Gate is a standout mystery with its pacing, characters, and emotional conclusion. Biel crafts a story that explores loss, courage, and unbreakable family bonds, offering readers an unforgettable journey through the secrets beyond the gate.
Recommend this book:
Predestined
Rachel Byrne
2025 Gold Medal
318 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Mimie Odigwe for Readers' Favorite
In Predestined by Rachel Byrne, strong-headed and rebellious Catalina Jamison is surprised when she receives an invitation to the prestigious Haverford Pines Academy for a six-week intensive summer program that promises to harness her potential. Haverford Pines Academy boasts the crème de la crème among its staff and students, with a notoriously selective admission process. Lina feels out of place in a world of elite, ambitious, and talented teens—until she saves a fellow student’s life and begins to glimpse her potential. As she delves deeper into the training and life at Haverford, she starts to realize that things are not as simple as they seem. How does Haverford Pines select its students? Why do they spy on them? And what if some students are predestined to do good while others do evil?
The world-building is superb. Set in the secluded and rocky mountains of Colorado, the students at Haverford Pines are stripped of their phones, cutting off their connection to the rest of the world. The tension and danger run high, with misdirection at play, leaving readers to wonder what is the school really up to. Predestined is steady-paced, thrilling, and action-packed. The training, testing, rivalry, and friendships are realistic, and the characters are well-written and stay true to themselves. I loved the friendships that were built and the way they cared about and stood up for each other. Rachel Byrne’s writing is fascinating and made every second I spent reading from cover to cover in one day worth it. This book is a must-read for lovers of sci-fi, mystery, thrillers, and young adult fiction.
In Predestined by Rachel Byrne, strong-headed and rebellious Catalina Jamison is surprised when she receives an invitation to the prestigious Haverford Pines Academy for a six-week intensive summer program that promises to harness her potential. Haverford Pines Academy boasts the crème de la crème among its staff and students, with a notoriously selective admission process. Lina feels out of place in a world of elite, ambitious, and talented teens—until she saves a fellow student’s life and begins to glimpse her potential. As she delves deeper into the training and life at Haverford, she starts to realize that things are not as simple as they seem. How does Haverford Pines select its students? Why do they spy on them? And what if some students are predestined to do good while others do evil?
The world-building is superb. Set in the secluded and rocky mountains of Colorado, the students at Haverford Pines are stripped of their phones, cutting off their connection to the rest of the world. The tension and danger run high, with misdirection at play, leaving readers to wonder what is the school really up to. Predestined is steady-paced, thrilling, and action-packed. The training, testing, rivalry, and friendships are realistic, and the characters are well-written and stay true to themselves. I loved the friendships that were built and the way they cared about and stood up for each other. Rachel Byrne’s writing is fascinating and made every second I spent reading from cover to cover in one day worth it. This book is a must-read for lovers of sci-fi, mystery, thrillers, and young adult fiction.
Recommend this book:
Haunt
Book One
Nichole Calabrese
2024 Finalist
400 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Leah Gonzalez for Readers' Favorite
Haunt by Nichole Calabrese centers around Gemma Leclair who can see and speak with ghosts. It’s a secret she keeps from everyone, especially the dead themselves. This makes it hard for her to feel and act like a normal teenager. After almost failing school, she moves back to Sage County to live with her grandfather. It’s her last chance to get her act together and she’s determined to make it work. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy when her new high school has its own share of ghosts, including an unknown girl who catches Gemma’s interest. When she discovers there’s no record anywhere of this girl dying, Gemma takes it upon herself to discover her identity and what happened to her, all while trying to keep her secret from coming out.
Haunt by Nichole Calabrese is an engaging paranormal mystery with interesting characters and an intriguing storyline. I enjoyed this book. Haunt is an easy read that moves at a nice pace. Gemma is a well-written character and the author does a great job of immersing the reader in what she experiences whenever she encounters a ghost. You can really feel her inner turmoil and struggle to control her emotions and physical reactions. Her experience of trying to navigate a new school and new friends is a relatable one. The mystery of the unknown dead girl makes for a gripping plot that keeps you interested until the end. Overall, Haunt is a good series starter and perfect for readers who love ghost stories and mysteries.
Haunt by Nichole Calabrese centers around Gemma Leclair who can see and speak with ghosts. It’s a secret she keeps from everyone, especially the dead themselves. This makes it hard for her to feel and act like a normal teenager. After almost failing school, she moves back to Sage County to live with her grandfather. It’s her last chance to get her act together and she’s determined to make it work. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy when her new high school has its own share of ghosts, including an unknown girl who catches Gemma’s interest. When she discovers there’s no record anywhere of this girl dying, Gemma takes it upon herself to discover her identity and what happened to her, all while trying to keep her secret from coming out.
Haunt by Nichole Calabrese is an engaging paranormal mystery with interesting characters and an intriguing storyline. I enjoyed this book. Haunt is an easy read that moves at a nice pace. Gemma is a well-written character and the author does a great job of immersing the reader in what she experiences whenever she encounters a ghost. You can really feel her inner turmoil and struggle to control her emotions and physical reactions. Her experience of trying to navigate a new school and new friends is a relatable one. The mystery of the unknown dead girl makes for a gripping plot that keeps you interested until the end. Overall, Haunt is a good series starter and perfect for readers who love ghost stories and mysteries.
Recommend this book:
Finding Fionn
A Mystery Inspired by the Kidnapping of the Irish Racehorse Shergar
M.J. Evans
2024 Honorable Mention
315 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Carmen Tenorio for Readers' Favorite
Finding Fionn by M.J. Evans centers on the search for Fionn MacCool, a champion and renowned racehorse who became Ireland's national treasure. Fionn's elite position was also much a result of Patrick McCallin's abilities as the jockey who guided him to victory and success. One chilly February night, Fionn was suddenly taken hostage, and a hefty ransom was requested for his release. Sadly, his owner was unwilling to pay. The entire country was devastated, and the horse's heartbroken rider, Patrick, also began to worry about Fionn's safety. He set off on a mission to look for Fionn, along with the aid and encouragement of his close friends and schoolmates. Despite the news, hazards, and concerns associated with the risky scenario, they remained unwavering in believing they would eventually find Fionn alive and well. Will Patrick and his crew be able to unravel the mystery of Fionn's abduction, locate and free him from his captors?
Finding Fionn by M.J. Evans, based on the true-to-life circumstances of the champion Irish racehorse Shergar, is an organized and well-researched novel that leaves no stone unturned. Character development for main and supporting players is multidimensional, relatable, and memorable. Along with the author's skill in exploring details and possibilities in a scene, seeing the progressive changes in the characters and how they influence the plotline also adds to sustaining interest, excitement, and drama, which keeps the reader hooked. The pacing and story build-up are moderate, and the occasional parts with some action and cliffhanger suspense are not overwhelming. The chapters aren't too long, and the language level isn't complicated, making it appealing to young readers. The unexpected plot twist truly gives the reader the extent of the complexity of the scenario. M.J. Evans is a talented author who offers more than just a tale about a famous racehorse. She offers the reader a thorough and realistic impression of what Irish culture is. Recommended for young adult readers and mystery buffs.
Finding Fionn by M.J. Evans centers on the search for Fionn MacCool, a champion and renowned racehorse who became Ireland's national treasure. Fionn's elite position was also much a result of Patrick McCallin's abilities as the jockey who guided him to victory and success. One chilly February night, Fionn was suddenly taken hostage, and a hefty ransom was requested for his release. Sadly, his owner was unwilling to pay. The entire country was devastated, and the horse's heartbroken rider, Patrick, also began to worry about Fionn's safety. He set off on a mission to look for Fionn, along with the aid and encouragement of his close friends and schoolmates. Despite the news, hazards, and concerns associated with the risky scenario, they remained unwavering in believing they would eventually find Fionn alive and well. Will Patrick and his crew be able to unravel the mystery of Fionn's abduction, locate and free him from his captors?
Finding Fionn by M.J. Evans, based on the true-to-life circumstances of the champion Irish racehorse Shergar, is an organized and well-researched novel that leaves no stone unturned. Character development for main and supporting players is multidimensional, relatable, and memorable. Along with the author's skill in exploring details and possibilities in a scene, seeing the progressive changes in the characters and how they influence the plotline also adds to sustaining interest, excitement, and drama, which keeps the reader hooked. The pacing and story build-up are moderate, and the occasional parts with some action and cliffhanger suspense are not overwhelming. The chapters aren't too long, and the language level isn't complicated, making it appealing to young readers. The unexpected plot twist truly gives the reader the extent of the complexity of the scenario. M.J. Evans is a talented author who offers more than just a tale about a famous racehorse. She offers the reader a thorough and realistic impression of what Irish culture is. Recommended for young adult readers and mystery buffs.
Recommend this book:
The Year I Lived Twice
A Time Loop Mystery
Alex Woolf
2024 Bronze Medal
276 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha for Readers' Favorite
The Year I Lived Twice by Alex Woolf is a time loop mystery that tells the story of Jason Harris, the protagonist, who experiences a time loop after the tragic death of his younger brother, Archie. As the family struggles to cope with the loss during Christmas, Jason falls while adjusting the tree and wakes up a year earlier. From that moment, he realizes the mistakes he made in the past and vows to make the best of his time with his siblings, especially Archie. He also tries to mend his relationship with his best friend Leo, who died along with Archie in the original timeline.
The book is divided into four parts, each adding a new twist and keeping the reader engaged. It explores themes of grief, romance, fraternal love, second chances, and friendship. The author skillfully builds suspense around a murder mystery while also examining the relationship between siblings and how the protagonist improves it in the new timeline. The plot is mysterious, with every answer we might have guessed being discarded as new facts are revealed. The author also delves deep into the works of Russian authors who wrote about the pain and regret of choices. The story follows the theory that the choices we make have a significant impact on our future. One can only regret after making a choice, as it cannot be undone. The best thing to do is to savor every moment. The Year I Lived Twice by Alex Woolf is well-written and satisfying. It is highly recommended for readers who enjoy stories with time loops and murder mysteries.
The Year I Lived Twice by Alex Woolf is a time loop mystery that tells the story of Jason Harris, the protagonist, who experiences a time loop after the tragic death of his younger brother, Archie. As the family struggles to cope with the loss during Christmas, Jason falls while adjusting the tree and wakes up a year earlier. From that moment, he realizes the mistakes he made in the past and vows to make the best of his time with his siblings, especially Archie. He also tries to mend his relationship with his best friend Leo, who died along with Archie in the original timeline.
The book is divided into four parts, each adding a new twist and keeping the reader engaged. It explores themes of grief, romance, fraternal love, second chances, and friendship. The author skillfully builds suspense around a murder mystery while also examining the relationship between siblings and how the protagonist improves it in the new timeline. The plot is mysterious, with every answer we might have guessed being discarded as new facts are revealed. The author also delves deep into the works of Russian authors who wrote about the pain and regret of choices. The story follows the theory that the choices we make have a significant impact on our future. One can only regret after making a choice, as it cannot be undone. The best thing to do is to savor every moment. The Year I Lived Twice by Alex Woolf is well-written and satisfying. It is highly recommended for readers who enjoy stories with time loops and murder mysteries.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/little-green-man&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41A3s%2BzZzKL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Birdie Buckley has seen enough photos of floating orbs and weird shooting stars to believe that there's UFO activity in the mountains. She keeps her secrets to herself but dares to tell the new guy in her space class about it, who expresses interest in going to "the spot." Thus begins the hunt for aliens. However, Birdie doesn't have a vibrant soci...){kind=link}
Little Green Man
Shanti Hershenson
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Foluso Falaye for Readers' Favorite
Birdie Buckley has seen enough photos of floating orbs and weird shooting stars to believe that there's UFO activity in the mountains. She keeps her secrets to herself but dares to tell the new guy in her space class about it, who expresses interest in going to "the spot." Thus begins the hunt for aliens. However, Birdie doesn't have a vibrant social life, and her extraterrestrial hobby is not exactly great for her reputation. As she faces the discomfort of public scrutiny, Birdie must come to terms with the inevitable consequences of her extraterrestrial quest. Shanti Hershenson's Little Green Man is a spellbinding tale about a girl on a dangerous mission to find aliens. From being stranded on the road to embarking on a daring trip and facing life-threatening dangers, Birdie's hunt for aliens leads her on a path of perilous and compelling adventure.
The intriguing alien clues and snippets are designed to spark your curiosity and compel you to search for answers. While reading, I was very eager to find out if aliens truly existed and why some characters seemed quite mysterious. Birdie is the chatty protagonist you can't help but like and root for. I was drawn to her introspective first-person viewpoint and the adorable traits that make her appear real, such as her need to play music to keep her awake on a two-hour drive. Prepare for a captivating portrayal of bullying, rivalry, slander, and other dramatic high school themes. Ultimately, the gripping suspense and compelling characters will keep you turning the pages excitedly throughout. Author Shanti Hershenson is skilled enough to rank among the top veteran authors, which is proven by the phenomenal storytelling in Little Green Man.
Birdie Buckley has seen enough photos of floating orbs and weird shooting stars to believe that there's UFO activity in the mountains. She keeps her secrets to herself but dares to tell the new guy in her space class about it, who expresses interest in going to "the spot." Thus begins the hunt for aliens. However, Birdie doesn't have a vibrant social life, and her extraterrestrial hobby is not exactly great for her reputation. As she faces the discomfort of public scrutiny, Birdie must come to terms with the inevitable consequences of her extraterrestrial quest. Shanti Hershenson's Little Green Man is a spellbinding tale about a girl on a dangerous mission to find aliens. From being stranded on the road to embarking on a daring trip and facing life-threatening dangers, Birdie's hunt for aliens leads her on a path of perilous and compelling adventure.
The intriguing alien clues and snippets are designed to spark your curiosity and compel you to search for answers. While reading, I was very eager to find out if aliens truly existed and why some characters seemed quite mysterious. Birdie is the chatty protagonist you can't help but like and root for. I was drawn to her introspective first-person viewpoint and the adorable traits that make her appear real, such as her need to play music to keep her awake on a two-hour drive. Prepare for a captivating portrayal of bullying, rivalry, slander, and other dramatic high school themes. Ultimately, the gripping suspense and compelling characters will keep you turning the pages excitedly throughout. Author Shanti Hershenson is skilled enough to rank among the top veteran authors, which is proven by the phenomenal storytelling in Little Green Man.
Recommend this book:
The Poison Dart
Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries
Geri Dreiling
2024 Gold Medal
414 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
The Poison Dart by Geri Dreiling is a crime novel in which journalist Debbie Bradley, who is known by her famed “Crime Beat Girl” moniker, investigates a drug overdose case involving the son of a prominent St. Louis family. As she digs into the lives impacted by the incident, she uncovers startling connections and finds herself entangled with a dangerous drug ring operating in her city. It's up to Debbie to piece it all together, and as this is done, the author sheds light on the very real heroin and fentanyl crisis gripping the Midwest, portraying the struggles of characters like J.R., who is ensnared by a ruthless cartel to produce the drugs or pay the ultimate price. Through her investigation, Bradley must balance the desire for truth and justice and the looming threat of familial destruction against a beast of a deadly operation that has no qualms about the crime and addiction their products cause.
Geri Dreiling's The Poison Dart is the second book in her Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series, the first being the acclaimed Crime Beat Girl. Both books read as standalones, but the series is so good that missing book one is really just robbing oneself. Dreiling's writing is exceptional, and while I felt like I knew Debbie going in, Dreiling's ability to flesh her and those around her out even more is a testament to her skill as a writer. There is a delicate balance that must be met when a plot revolves around addiction, and the author treads this carefully and with the compassion needed for the victims to really feel like victims. She keeps the human element of the human condition at the forefront, and it is part of what makes Dreiling so credible as a crime writer. This is an intelligently written, deeply immersive, raw, and completely engrossing book, and I am, hand over heart, a happy Debbie Bradley fanboy. Very highly recommended.
The Poison Dart by Geri Dreiling is a crime novel in which journalist Debbie Bradley, who is known by her famed “Crime Beat Girl” moniker, investigates a drug overdose case involving the son of a prominent St. Louis family. As she digs into the lives impacted by the incident, she uncovers startling connections and finds herself entangled with a dangerous drug ring operating in her city. It's up to Debbie to piece it all together, and as this is done, the author sheds light on the very real heroin and fentanyl crisis gripping the Midwest, portraying the struggles of characters like J.R., who is ensnared by a ruthless cartel to produce the drugs or pay the ultimate price. Through her investigation, Bradley must balance the desire for truth and justice and the looming threat of familial destruction against a beast of a deadly operation that has no qualms about the crime and addiction their products cause.
Geri Dreiling's The Poison Dart is the second book in her Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series, the first being the acclaimed Crime Beat Girl. Both books read as standalones, but the series is so good that missing book one is really just robbing oneself. Dreiling's writing is exceptional, and while I felt like I knew Debbie going in, Dreiling's ability to flesh her and those around her out even more is a testament to her skill as a writer. There is a delicate balance that must be met when a plot revolves around addiction, and the author treads this carefully and with the compassion needed for the victims to really feel like victims. She keeps the human element of the human condition at the forefront, and it is part of what makes Dreiling so credible as a crime writer. This is an intelligently written, deeply immersive, raw, and completely engrossing book, and I am, hand over heart, a happy Debbie Bradley fanboy. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry
Rebecca Laxton
2023 Finalist
252 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Mystery
Reviewed by David Korson for Readers' Favorite
Rebecca Laxton’s The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is a contemporary page-turner that will resonate strongly with younger audiences. Emma and her friend Sophie are young teens who enjoy skateboarding, art, and, perhaps most of all, butterflies. In fact, as members of the Environmental Club, they can often be found planting flowers to help enhance the local monarch butterfly garden. However, Emma's love for the environment is tested when a celebrity family convinces many in the town that the economic boon from their planned ski resort is more than worth any damage it will cause to the local ecosystem. Torn between her blossoming relationship with the social media icon Jeb Scott and her deep love of nature, Emma must sort out her feelings to make the right decisions.
With an upbeat writing style, Rebecca Laxton crafts authentic characters that will make you cringe at the awkward moments when Emma meets Jeb, root for her friendship with Sophie, and cheer on her fight against a townful of opponents. In this heartening story of transformation, whether Emma is managing change in the community, change among friends, or within, she finds herself in numerous situations where she must adapt. The primary coming-of-age storyline is enhanced by an aura of paranormal mystery and a lighthearted romance, though neither strays from the book’s fresh and crisp, family-friendly tone. The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is an entertaining and rewarding book about personal growth, the value of friendship, environmental awareness, and standing up for what is right.
Rebecca Laxton’s The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is a contemporary page-turner that will resonate strongly with younger audiences. Emma and her friend Sophie are young teens who enjoy skateboarding, art, and, perhaps most of all, butterflies. In fact, as members of the Environmental Club, they can often be found planting flowers to help enhance the local monarch butterfly garden. However, Emma's love for the environment is tested when a celebrity family convinces many in the town that the economic boon from their planned ski resort is more than worth any damage it will cause to the local ecosystem. Torn between her blossoming relationship with the social media icon Jeb Scott and her deep love of nature, Emma must sort out her feelings to make the right decisions.
With an upbeat writing style, Rebecca Laxton crafts authentic characters that will make you cringe at the awkward moments when Emma meets Jeb, root for her friendship with Sophie, and cheer on her fight against a townful of opponents. In this heartening story of transformation, whether Emma is managing change in the community, change among friends, or within, she finds herself in numerous situations where she must adapt. The primary coming-of-age storyline is enhanced by an aura of paranormal mystery and a lighthearted romance, though neither strays from the book’s fresh and crisp, family-friendly tone. The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is an entertaining and rewarding book about personal growth, the value of friendship, environmental awareness, and standing up for what is right.
Contact Author -
