Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

The Kelsey Outrage: The Crime of the Century by Alison Louise Hubbard is based on a true story. Cathleen Kelsey had long protected her eccentric Bohemian poet of a brother, but when Charles Kelsey doesn’t come home one night, Cathleen discovers that he has been wrongly accused of molesting a girl and has been tarred and feathered. Cathleen thinks Sam Royals, the girl’s wealthy fiancé, is behind it and decides to investigate for herself when she decides that the police aren’t up to it. Successful as a detective, Cathleen uncovers evidence that points elsewhere, but she’s up against some powerful people who don’t want the truth coming out. Will she clear Charles’ name, or will his name be forever tarred and feathered, like he was?

The Kelsey Outrage: The Crime of the Century by Alison Louise Hubbard is adapted from a true story and is very well written. Alison carried out a great deal of research on the original crime, looking into every aspect to prepare herself to write this book. It’s a story of love and lies that digs deep into the truth, discovering buried evidence and a story of the lengths people will go to cover something up. Although it is based on a true story, it is fiction and has an amazingly strong female protagonist, a woman who will stop at nothing to get to the truth. All the characters are equally well-developed, each with a story to tell, and the tale is told from several perspectives. This is an excellent book, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Looking forward to more from an author with a real flair for storytelling.

Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite

Faythe Wentworth and her family moved to North Hinkapee, owned by Miles Downing and his family. The impoverished Wentworth family leased land from the Downing family, where they settled and lived peacefully. However, things took a turn for the worse when the Downing twin boys raped Fathye’s younger sister, Chloe. The situation became complicated because Martha, Miles’ wife, took her mandate to protect the Downing legacy seriously. Her boys could not face the law if she wanted to maintain the life of affluence she enjoyed. Martha unleashed an arsenal of misfortunes on the Wentworth family, which led to irreparable damage. Faythe Emily Wentworth swore not only justice but vengeance! Faythe had neither money nor power, so how could she take down the Downing family and its cronies? Find out in Faythe of North Hinkapee by James T. Hogg.

James T. Hogg sets Faythe of North Hinkapee in seventeenth-century colonial America. In those days, it was the norm for women to remain silent and not speak up. This book centers on three formidable women (Nununyi, Faythe, and Martha) and how they disrupted the status quo. The themes explored include greed, loyalty, betrayal, deception, love, crime, and vengeance. The story knocked me sideways with its action and suspense. It was also thought-provoking because each character left me with questions. Where does the line blur between being patient with one’s spouse and becoming a doormat? Do children hate the weak-willed parent? Why do they align with the stronger parent regardless of their cruelty? I saw this pattern repeat from Martha’s parents to her son, Matt. Did the power dynamics in their parents’ relationships contribute to them being psychopaths? I felt it was a lesson that parents should never stay in toxic situations for the sake of their children because it will backfire.

Faythe was also an intriguing character through whom I saw the power of worthy relationships. She had no wealth but leveraged people like Merten, Tommy, Nununyi, Jens, Julie, Remembrance, Jones, Menon, and other allies. No matter how busy our lives are, we must learn to build a community of quality people. They are gifts. We need more Mrs. Wormers who create safe spaces for women. She was strict but kind and one of my favorite characters. Nununyi was another character I loved. She knew how to care for loved ones and was level-headed. Miles was an absolute waste of oxygen. I could not deal with such a level of weak will and playing the ostrich. How could anyone live like that? Everyone should read this book, especially lovers of historical stories. The characters, world-building, and storyline were superb. I felt the depth and emotions of this story and can attest that James is a brilliant writer. Thank you for a beautiful book.

Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite

In the Shadows of the Game, a mystery and legal thriller by Owen Parr, starts with Ruth informing Joey Mancuso over the phone that her son, Randy Goldstein, had been taken into custody and would soon face charges related to second-degree murder. The victim was Silvio Alvarez, a teammate on Randy’s tennis team. All the evidence and circumstances pointed to Randy as the killer, and Mancuso had to track down the real killer to prove Randy's innocence. During Mancuso and his team’s investigation, they found a syndicate that forced teenage girls into prostitution as well as a syndicate that took advantage of female students making provocative videos of themselves. When people of interest were murdered, it was up to Mancuso to unravel the mystery behind these murders and find the link between them.

In the Shadows of the Game by Owen was a roller coaster ride of blackmail, courtroom drama, deceit, murder, suspense, and guilt. The plot was excellently executed and full of action and suspense, and there was never a dull moment. This page-turner hooked me from the start and kept me on the edge of my seat. The court proceedings had an engaging focus and provided an immersive experience. With all the unexpected twists and turns, I never knew what to expect next. The characters were authentic and easy to relate to. Mancuso believed in Randy’s innocence and investigated all possible aspects to prove his innocence. The story was brilliantly written and exceeded my expectations. The epilogue was an enjoyable read as Owen Parr expertly outlined the brilliant conclusion.

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 Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite

Treat yourself to a steamy sleuth mystery with Glendall C. Jackson III's Naked Came the Detective. After receiving news of the brutal stabbing of one of her clients, a high-end escort plying her trade in Washington, D.C. takes it upon herself to solve the mystery behind the killing of Ben, an influential businessman who has links to some of the most powerful men in the city. The unnamed narrator insidiously retrieves information about the infamous murder from her clients, who come from varied backgrounds and aren't hesitant to share their thoughts about the murder. As she delves deeper into the case, she realizes that Ben was involved in a financial Ponzi scheme, which may have put him on the wrong side of many people. However, she must be careful lest she put herself in grave danger.

Glendall C. Jackson III offers a healthy dose of erotic thrills with this racy murder mystery. As a reader, you're drawn into the story from the very first page, and the author keeps feeding information in little bits and pieces to keep you engaged through to the end. The well-placed twists and turns of the plot keep things fresh, and you find yourself looking forward to what's going to happen next. I already am a big fan of sleuth murder mystery stories, and Naked Came the Detective is such a fresh take on the genre that I loved the book. The author's unique approach to the narrative adds to the intrigue and makes the tale all the more captivating. Murder mystery readers shouldn't miss out on this one.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

The Heir of Atargatis is a work of fiction penned by author A.G. Whitt in the interpersonal drama, mythology, and romantic intrigue subgenres. The work is suitable for the general adult reading audience. We follow Jasmine Atarga's journey to Ireland with her girlfriends after losing her father and fiancé in a tragic boating accident. Despite finding solace in the beauty of the Emerald Isle and a budding romance with Seamus, Jasmine's mysterious heritage catches up with her, leading to her sudden disappearance at the Cliffs of Moher. Seamus, aided by local folklore and his estranged brother, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind Jasmine's vanishing before she's lost to the sea forever.

Author A.G. Whitt has crafted a well-balanced and highly enjoyable novel that combines romance, mystery, and folklore to create an enthralling narrative from cover to cover. Set against the backdrop of Ireland's enchanting landscapes, the story immerses readers in a world where ancient myths intertwine with modern-day dilemmas in a brilliantly balanced plot. The characters, particularly Jasmine and Seamus, are compelling and well-developed, drawing readers into their tumultuous journey of love and discovery with realistic dialogue that develops their dynamic so well. I was also really impressed with the level of dedication given to the rest of the novel’s characters, who all felt authentic and detailed as they brought various scenes to life. As the plot unfolds, the intricate web of secrets and legends adds increasing layers of intrigue and charm, shifting through different atmospheric landscapes and moods as well as keeping readers guessing until the very end. Overall, The Heir of Atargatis is a highly recommended, spellbinding tale that seamlessly combines elements of romance and fantasy, leaving readers eagerly turning pages to unravel its mysteries to the very end.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

The Emerald Fairy and the Dragon Knight by Jennifer Ivy Walker weaves magic into an adventure-filled web of romance, evil powers, legendary creatures, and a mixture of fantasy, history, and legend, as The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven trilogy comes to a spellbinding conclusion. Imagine the Tristan and Isolde legend, interspersed with Arthurian myths, Avalon, Merlin, Lancelot, and the Lady of the Lake, and you have the makings of an adventure of epic proportions. Tristan and Issylte, heirs to their kingdoms, are matched to bring their people together to live in harmony. But there are evil powers at work that plot to kill them both and take what isn’t theirs.

Jennifer Ivy Walker’s The Emerald Fairy and the Dragon Knight is the thrilling finale of the trilogy. The author has expertly added a little mix of just about everything, including the classic fairy tale, Sleeping Beauty. This trilogy will quickly become a favorite, one that will rival the Game of Thrones and many other legendary, fantastical mixes. In this final part, Tristan and Issylte struggle to overcome the evil that surrounds them. The suspense intensifies as magic prevails for both good and evil. The narrative is done expertly, setting vivid scenes that are enticing, awe-inspiring, frightening, and realistic. The characters continue to be well-developed as dialogue and dramatic interchange move the plot forward with intense vitality. If you haven’t read the first two books in this trilogy, it’s advised that you do, as you’ll miss out on so much by not following the full sequence. The series is brilliant, engaging, educational, and a real twist of interwoven tales. Riveting.

Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite

Colleen M. Story's The Curse of King Midas breathes new life into the age-old tale of King Midas with a fresh and intriguing perspective. At its core, the story explores Midas not as a born ruler, but as someone thrust into power through unexpected circumstances. Initially driven by a quest for revenge, Midas's journey evolves into a complex exploration of power, consequence, and the often blurred lines between good and evil. The narrative thrives on its dynamic and interwoven cast of characters, each adding layers of depth and intrigue to the unfolding plot. The story shifts fluidly between these characters, keeping readers on their toes with unexpected twists and turns. While the novel isn't heavy on fantastical creatures and overt displays of magic, it compensates with compelling drama, nuanced relationships, and the ever-present allure of the mythical curse. This isn't just a retelling of a familiar myth; it's a riveting exploration of human desires and their unintended outcomes.

The Curse of King Midas excels in plot intricacy, maintaining a steady pace that builds tension and anticipation. Action scenes are well-executed, heightening the stakes and propelling the narrative forward with each page turn. The characters are vividly portrayed, each grappling with their own ambitions and moral dilemmas, which adds a layer of realism to the fantastical setting. Themes of ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of unchecked power resonate throughout, offering readers a thought-provoking reflection on the timeless cautionary tale of King Midas. In conclusion, Colleen M. Story's novel is a gripping fantasy that blends classic myth with contemporary storytelling finesse. With its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and poignant themes, The Curse of King Midas is a standout in the genre, sure to captivate both fans of mythological retellings and newcomers alike.

Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite

In The Roots Run Deep by Chris Strong, Chris West is overcome with intense grief at his childhood friend's funeral, finding the sorrow linked more to the loss of a family member than to a friend's passing. Nostalgia kicks in and West reflects on his past with the Cool Crew, a group of friends from Coolidge Lane who once dreamed of a road trip to Mt. Hood. But life happens, and as an adult West is sandwiched between his busy life and a desire to reconnect with his friends. Buddy, who meets Stella at an airport after a minor accident, marries her, and they have a child within four years. Meanwhile, Izzy’s suicide attempt prompts West, Buddy, and Sean to finally organize that dreamed-of trip to Mt. Hood, looking to provide Izzy with a supportive escape from what pushed him to the edge, only to discover that he is not the only one who needs support, or whose life hangs in the balance.

The Roots Run Deep by Chris Strong threw me for a bit of a loop because I was pretty sure I knew more about the funeral West is eulogizing than it turns out I did. The author has some twisty turns in there and they're both beautiful and devastating. This completely character-driven novel transitions between the friends as kids and the friends as adults on their trip, and proves that there is a story to be told in which the journey is the whole point and not the destination. The beauty of literary fiction is that it has the flexibility to be more artistic without getting tied up in a single discernable plot. We know someone has died, and we learn of the trip that precludes it...but then Strong pulls out his ace card. The writing is simple and straightforward with some fun nods to generational pop culture. Overall, Strong gives us a thoughtful work of escapism that will no doubt resonate with readers. Recommended.

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

Running In The Shadows by Niki Gregory is the first book in a paranormal series, Memoirs of a Living Dead Girl. Lucy must die because the witch wants her powers, powers that grow with Lucy. Once the witch has claimed her, Lucy’s spirit cannot move on. It hovers somewhere between life and death. Lucy is trapped in a never-ending sleep, safe from the witch, until she returns to consciousness, leaving her vulnerable. It’s down to Lucy’s sister and her friends to save Lucy, and they set off on a long, dangerous journey, fighting dark forces to rescue Lucy’s soul from the evil that lies ahead. Can they get to her in time, or is their quest doomed to fail before it starts?

Running In The Shadows by Niki Gregory is very different from other stories in the paranormal genre. Rather than being a good vs. evil story all the way through, we see things from the perspective of a living dead girl, floating between life and death, highlighting the fragility that exists between the two states. It is an adult book and contains triggers, so beware. This story is highly emotional and full of action as the main character’s friends and family face dangers they never dreamed existed. All the characters are well-developed, and you will feel that you know them. Indeed, you can probably see yourself and the people you know in them, and they are easy to relate to. This is a highly imaginative story that will stay with you for a long time. A very enjoyable, nail-biting read, and I can’t wait for the next one.