After reading the synopsis,writers retreat, haunted house,murderer lurking,locked room mystery it had me dying to plunge into it.It felt too slow of a burn for me and I only got interested in it once a plot twist was revealed but by that stage I was so far into the book I was determined to finish it, given that I had seen so many other readers give it 4 and 5 stars.It just didn't have the atmospheric feel for me that I was expecting.⭐⭐

Sophie falls for a man - Emilio who clearly has a hidden agenda and a very mysterious first wife and a seemingly somewhat unusual relationship with his former sister in law.This was another well written and captivating read by Sue Watson.I found myself unsure of who to believe and trust and with that anticipation of waiting for everything to be revealed with each chapter. A hypnotic thiller⭐⭐⭐⭐

Obsessive dark minded characters- a compelling and addictive read.Juliette considers herself to be the perfect girlfriend, she is attractive, romantic, obsessed,psychotic and deeply in love.I love an unhinged character, the more disturbing they are the better.Juliette is determined to win her ex boyfriend back.The suspense and tension build in this book was so well done. Unexpected twists, this was one heck of an addictive page turner for me.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The third book in the Wicked Sisters trilogy and it was just as sweet and delightful as the others. This was a second chance romance and I loved the chance to be back in the Wicked Sisters world as they feel like friends to me by now. In this book we focus on Poppy and Alistair who were previously married when she was only 18. A cosy feel good read that had me brewing up a cup of tea as I plunged into their lovely little world.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

When I heard that this book contained a true crime pod cast element, I was in.Lucy was a likaeble character despite her personality traits of prickly, sarcastic, snarky, these seemed to be her coping mechanism for dealing with the vilification from everyone in her hometown.Interwoven are the podcast notes they added another fascinating element for me. A mesmerising,addictive thriller read.The twists and the ending were perfection for me.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A twisty domestic thriller read that will have you avoiding engaging with strangers whilst on public transport. This was a twisty thriller that had unconsciously holding my breath in parts, I couldn't get enough of it. With dark characters and a feeling of things just not being quite as they seemed it was a very enjoyable and captivating read.⭐⭐⭐⭐

A fascinating and informative true crime read explaining how sex offenders are assessed by Forensic Psychologists as to their chances of re-offending if they are released back out in to the public as they are coming towards the end of their prison sentence or if the recommendation is for them then to be housed in a mental health facility to prevent them from continuing to offend if they are released.A very insightful read.

Jess was a little girl asleep in her stroller when her mother was murdered.She has no memory of that day,will searching for the truth put her in danger. The past storyline told by Jess's mother.The present told by Jess.This was an excellent way to jump between past and present as I tried to work out who the murderer was.I enjoyed the suspense,tension and mystery in this book.This was a gripping read,full of twists and had a jaw dropping ending.

This book follows a series of gruesome murders committed by a vengeful art student who creates a set of disturbing artworks using the dead bodies of his murder victims.A very well written,captivating thriller read.Short snappy chapters had me caught up in the momentum of the story and ready to read it through the night.I enjoyed that it was told from multiple POV's and I loved the darkness of the characters and the twists along the way.⭐⭐⭐⭐

Noah lives in the Hampton area working as carpenter and handy man for the elite who call this area their summer home.Noah gets arrested for a double-murder, the evidence seems indisputable until Detective Jenna Murphy starts questioning the suspiciously convenient case against Noah.The deeper she dives into the case more homicides old and new come to light.A twisty read written in signature Patterson style that misdirects you keeping you guessing.

After hearing about this book so many times and having it sitting on my TBR but never quite reaching for it out of fear that it wouldn't live up to my expectations. An addictive read,the kind where you just want to read one more chapter and then one more.I found myself reading it any chance I got, for me it was genuine page-turner.I loved all the little twists.Just when I thought I had it all it figured out,I realised I was not even close.⭐⭐⭐⭐

A bestselling author found in a pool of blood in her hotel room.What unfolded was a very well written book of hidden secrets from this authors past that noone has any idea about the fatal circumstances she was involved in,that compelled her to reinvent her entire life story.. This was one action packed, suspenseful and twisty read.I loved the pacing of it and the tension I felt between the characters whilst reading it was palpable.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Creepy, atmospheric I devoured every single page. The strange friendship between 2 neighbours had me intrigued from the very start.“They had a secret,the two of them, and there was no better way to start a friendship than with a secret“ Hen, her husband Lloyd who move to a quiet suburb hoping to embrace the quiet life.Their neighbours soon jolt them out of the new home bliss and draw them into a nightmare. Dark, twisty and suspenseful ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book felt like a hug around my heart.It was such a delightful read.I loved getting to know all of the dogs and their human's through the eyes of the bookstore owner.As with the best of heartfelt reads there were happy, joy filled moments also balanced by some of the more poignant and sadder moments that come from loving dogs and bonding so closely with them when they have such infinitely short life spans in comparison to yours.🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

The premise of this one is Stephanie and Patrick hapoily married when a woman from Patrick's past seemingly appears into their lives out of nowhere.She tells Stephanie she is Patrick‘s ex wife‘s best friend and insists his first wife's death was not an accident, she has been murdered by Patrick.This was a domestic type thriller that gripped me from the start.A twisty read and spellbinding read from Shari Lapena. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Kate plans a night out after her breakup and as luck would have it she meets Jamie.They have a one night stand,in the morning she wakes up in to find Jamie dead.Kate also becomes friendly with the mother of her young son's friend only to discover that the mother (Harper) is her dead one night stands partner. twists an awkward situation I couldn't get enough of it.I was dying to see just how it would all unfold and the ending did not disappoint.

I was looking for something dark and grisly and this short read did not disappoint. Phil's girlfriend sends him on a snack run to the supermarket with the intention of snuggling on the couch and watching tv for the rest of the day together. Phil's attention is drawn to a noisy child having a tantrum in the supermarket and this is where the horror unfolds into a deliciously grisly, captivating read I couldn't put down.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A dark humoured thriller Kitty is a female “Dexter type“.Kitty's character was so well developed in this book. When Kitty sees a monster who abuses women, she knows how to end his life and how to get away with doing just that.Kitty has a lot going on it her life in the best of ways and I was along for all of it. This was such a smart, entertaining, twisty, unputdownable and thoroughly enjoyable read.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A detailed biography I enjoyed how it went through his career in chronological order with insights into his record deals,albums, his bands and his side projects.Having been a long time fan through most of his musical journey I loved the nostalgic throwbacks to his albums and music and movies and the little nuggets of insights along the way.A must read for any Prince fan or anyone with a curiosity about his music and or the music business. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Sometimes a short read thriller just hits the spot in that it can be read in one sitting and if its compelling enough you wont even require a bookmark.The sublet was exactly that for me,Anne is a ghostwriter who is very busy with twins and a demanding client named Melody.Anne has been tasked with writing her inspirational self-help book.Strange things start happening when Melody introduces Anne to her beautiful sublet.Creepy and mesmerising⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Just an ok read for me,I didnt really like any of the characters and found some to be quite annoying,which is probably also why I haven't rated it very highly.I didn't feel the chemistry between the main characters either and the toxicity of the Smith family was not something I found engaging to read about, it wasn't to the point where I was ready to DNF it,it just wasn't one of those books where I was really interested in the characters lives.

After her father's death,Emily has to live with her grandmother and Aunt,she begins to learn that she is from a long line of witches and that she cannot avoid her destiny.I hated having to put this book down it was such a captivating read. With likeable characters (mainly) an engaging storyline it was easy to get swept up in.A book where you feel a little sad and lost as to what to read next once you finish it as it was that enjoyable.🌟🌟🌟🌟

A domestic thriller set in a gated community. Kensington Grove is a gated neighborhood a safe place to call home, until it isn't.Palpable tensions between Nora and her daughter Lacey, gossiping neighbours a murder that I didn't anticipate made for an enjoyable twisty slow burn of a thriller for me.A mix of likeable and unlikeable characters and it had me side eyeing different people throughout the read well written and one to look out for.🌟🌟🌟

The true friendship and love Andrew and George shared was so touching to read about. I can only imagine writing this wasn't the easiest for Andrew given how much he and the fans still grieve over the loss of George but I am so glad he wrote it and that I read it. It made me laugh it made my cry in the best of ways that a book about their enduring love and support for one another only could. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. This is book 4 in the delightful short read series by Alice Hoffman. At only 43 pages in length it was sure packed a punch in the emotions it evoked in me. Love, heartbreak, goodbyes, hope and new beginnings, it was such a well rounded read that I thoroughly enjoyed. Such a charming read it made my little heart flutter with joy.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For me it was an ok read, I couldn't help comparing it to one of my favourite Alice Feeney books of all time (Sometimes I lie) and in comparison for me it was a little too slow of a burn and didnt have me holding my breath in suspense as I had with Sometimes I lie. I also found it to be a bit too predictable and not the type of thriller that stays in my mind long after I have finished it.⭐⭐

This was such a courageous and well written memoir capturing the abuse that Sonia had suffered, along with the complexities of all that comes with having endured such abuse, along with her pursuit for justice. It can be a triggering read as it explores not only the grooming and and abuse Sonia was the survivor of but also the devastating and far reaching impact the abuse has not only on the survivor but also on their friends and families too.⭐⭐⭐⭐

Missing‘ takes you on a personal and raw journey of 12 families who are seeking answers as to what has really happened to their missing loved ones.Heartbreaking,bittersweet and poignant, Nicole captures the essence of each missing person and takes them from being a missing person face in a photo to an actual blood and bones person who is dearly missed by family and loved ones who just want to know what happened to them.Compelling reading.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was such a delightful read, I was fully immersed in Frankie's bookloving world and her quest to find love. I found myself so invested in Frankie's quest that I was cheering for her from the sidelines within my mind whilst reading it. Such an engaging read, it has motivated to join the group the authors started Books on the rail so that I too can become a book ninja and share some of my favourite reads with other commuters. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was one of those mesmerising reads where you just keep telling yourself you will just read “one more chapter“ because it is just too fast paced to put down and I found myself swept up in the book. I loved the darkly disturbing characters and the unexpected twists as the story unfolded, it definitely kept me holding on until the very last word. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thanks to netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review

The subject matter is very dark and could be triggering for some readers.Vanessa,at the age of 15 had what she thought was a love affair with her teacher.It is now when another student of his has come forward with SA allegations that she is going back over the relationship she once shared with him.The writing is captivating and hard to put down.We see how Vanessa struggles to come to terms with what she thought the relationship actually was.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A group of friends decide to gather together to give each other a living funeral, to show their love and appreciation for each other whilst they are still around to hear it.Their friendships span three decades, this book shows us a remarkable portrayal of enduring bonds. I also loved the 90's nostalgia throughout the book. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

“My body has not betrayed me; it has continued rebounding against all odds. It is a body that others map their expectations on, but it has never let me down.“ A very interesting, thought provoking collection of essays. A very relatable and important read. I appreciated Evette's honesty and the poignant moments in which she shared her pain and the struggles she has endured and risen above was inspiring.⭐⭐⭐⭐

Rachel Harrison is fast becoming one of my favourite authors in the horror/fantasy space.Our main character,Vesper,left her family behind years ago .Now in her mid-twenties, she is still struggling in her waitressing job, has no real friends, acts reserved, too straightforward, and a little abrupt/mean, making it hard for her to connect with other people.A very entertaining dark humoured horror read that I couldn't put down. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I don't often say a book is a must read, but for anyone with any curiosity around the current GLP1 weightloss medications and how they work and why for some people they may the answer to helping them finally gain some control over their increasing weight gain and unhealthy relationship with food. To sum it up in one sentence, a very relatable, interesting, unbiased and very informative read.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I enjoyed that this book was written with some light banter easy to digest advice. With examples like Sally in procurement that snacks on one nut at a time during a meeting, people who noisily snack on pretzels while sitting on the men‘s toilet to make eye contact on the way out while NOT WASHING HIS HANDS. Proof that every office has its quirky people or people doing things that others will find annoying.⭐⭐⭐

The main character is a bookseller Carl, delivers books to special customers in the evening hours after closing time,walking through the picturesque alleys of the city.I was entranced by this story of Carl and his little friend Sascha (who starts following him door to door as he makes his book deliveries.The bond that forms between them is so adorable,one of those books where you just don't want it to ever end, such a heartwarming read. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Such a delight to read,women's friendships/relationships with each other,their own bodies,body conscious women who have been previously fat shamed into wanting to be unseen by society now being empowered to overcome their self doubts and body shaming and learning to embrace the body they are currently in and all the ways it can move and bring them joy.Overflowing with life,vibrancy,love,creativity, raw realness,resilience and friendships⭐⭐⭐⭐

I was initially drawn to this book of course because from the cover and title it was obviously about books to some degree which is always a huge draw card for me but it was so much more than a cute bookstore read. I loved being along for Emma's self discovery journey and seeing how she grew and developed relationships with people and reconnections in her life. A delightful read that will leave you with a warm heart and a smile on your face.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

1950's radio star,Maggie,who gets a big break with a baking show on the television.We follow the rise of Maggie's career in a time when women didn't usually have careers nor were they the “stars“ of the family and her life with her less than supportive husband.A well written read,I felt transported back to the 1950's whilst reading it. The descriptions were immersive and Maggie as a character along with her life struggles were a captivating read.

Its one of those books that has always haunted me ever since and I have always wanted to re-read some 30+ years later.On my second reading I found it to be just as haunting, thought provoking and disturbing as I remembered it to be.This book touches me in so many ways and still leaves a footprint in my mind.Told from the main characters point of view we delve into what are the demons drive her, a college-aged student to eat herself to death? ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Like a lot of bookworms,Victoria just wants to be left alone so she can devour all of the books that she can get her hands on.Victoria escapes into her reading as a means of coping with her miserable, daily planned life with her career oriented, condescending husband.Victoria sees a glimmer of light a man in her coffee shop who reads the same books as her. A very engaging, dark humoured/sarcastic toned read that I adored.A must read.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book is about the 4 personality types being red, blue, green and yellow. It's an interesting read for anyone who has taken the test and knows what colour/s they are. This is also an interesting read for anyone wanting insights into how to have the best interactions and obtain the best results from people⭐⭐#thomasserikson #surroundedbyidiots #goodreads #vermillionmassmarket #thestorygraph #getlitsy #tea_sipping_bookworm #bookqueen #bookstagram

Yet another interesting and informative true crime read from Robin Bowles. Very well researched and gritty all cases are told with the utmost respect for the victims. ⭐⭐⭐⭐#robinbowles #collateraldamage #truecrime #goodreads #getlitsy #thestorygraph #tea_sipping_bookworm #bookstagram #bookqueen #australiantruecrime

A fascinating read covering some of Australia's most infamous female murders and also some that are not so well known. Another well written and researched true crime read from Paul B Kidd. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ #paulbkidd #australiasmostevilwomen #truecrime #tea_sipping_bookworm #getlitsy #thestorygraph #thefivemilepress

An interesting true crime read focusing on a vast range of Australian crime cases. Fascinating insights and well researched highly recommend for anyone interested in Australian true crime and just how the closest people to the victims are often the perpetrators of their murders.⭐⭐⭐⭐ #victoriaheywood #truecrime #goodreads #getlitsy #thestorygraph #tea_sipping_bookworm #bookqueen #bookstagram #fivemilepress

A deeper dive into some of Australia's most notable murders. Some I was familiar with and others I had never heard of. A fascinating read some of the cases in this book still remain unsolved. Highly recommend for fans of Australian true crime. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ #emilywebb #murderinsuburbia #truecrime #goodreads #getlitsy thestorygraph #goodreads #tea_sipping_bookworm #fivemilepress

An interesting and informative read about some of the more known Australian crime cases including Peter Falconi, Jaidyn Leski. With insights into the Australian justice system and it's issues it was a well written thought provoking read.⭐⭐⭐⭐ #robinbowles #roughjustice #goodreads #getlitsy #thestorygraph #tea_sipping_bookworm #truecrime #bookstagram #bookqueen #lakepress

A very interesting and informative true crime read about stalkers. A chilling look into their mindsets and just how dangerous it can be to have one and just how easy it is to be unknowningly stalked. A thought provoking read for everyone. ⭐⭐⭐⭐#victoriaheywood #everymoveyoumake #tea_sipping_bookworm #truecrime #goodreads #getlitsy #thestorygraph #fable

A charming second chance enemies to lovers romance read, it was engaging and had me laughing at the back and forwards banter between Kara and Ryan. I also loved that she was a novelist and a bookstagrammer, contemporary romance written within the bookworld is always something I will be drawn to and this book did not disappoint. A delightful read from start to finish.⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐