momobookdiary's reviews
616 reviews

A Fatal Silence, the 14th book in the Detective Kay Hunter series, was my introduction to Rachel Amphlett's writing. I found this to be an impressive introduction that can be read as a stand-alone without any knowledge of the previous 13 books.

The story begins with the discovery of a young woman’s body at an outdoor music festival. Detective Kay Hunter and her team face an uphill battle as they try to solve a murder with no apparent leads and an unidentified victim. The tension rises as the investigation grapples with media pressure and an overwhelming pool of potential suspects. Amphlett expertly maintains the suspense, with each twist and revelation pulling the reader deeper into the mystery.

What truly makes this book shine is the combination of its vivid scene-setting, well-rounded characters, and perfectly paced narrative. Amphlett’s remarkable ability to set the scene immerses the reader in every detail. The sprawling festival grounds and the grim realities of the murder scene are vividly depicted, placing the reader right in the heart of the action. Meanwhile, the police station, bustling with the murder team’s efforts, serves as a dynamic hub where the investigation unfolds, adding to the authenticity and tension.

Adding to this is the balance Amphlett strikes between Kay’s professional and personal life. Kay is a well-rounded protagonist whose moments at home provide depth and relatability, making her more than just a detective on a case. Her interactions with her team are another highlight, showcasing strong camaraderie and clear dynamics that add richness to the narrative. Amphlett ensures readers can easily follow the roles and personalities within the team, which further enhances the seamless flow of the story.

The novel’s pacing ties everything together beautifully. Fast and gripping, it keeps the pages turning, but Amphlett also incorporates moments of reflection and tension-building, creating a rhythm that feels natural and engaging. It’s the kind of book you can’t put down — the "just one more chapter" effect is in full force here.

The plot is intricately designed, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The killer stayed off my radar for most of the book, but I had the satisfaction of piecing things together just before the big reveal — a testament to Amphlett’s clever storytelling. The final twists are both surprising and satisfying, ensuring a memorable conclusion.

A Fatal Silence has left me eager to explore the rest of the Detective Kay Hunter series, and I’m adding the previous 13 novels to my TBR list after this outstanding introduction to Amphlett’s writing.

If you’re a fan of fast-paced, character-driven crime fiction with an intricate plot and strong attention to detail, A Fatal Silence should be at the top of your reading list. Rachel Amphlett delivers a compelling entry in a series that promises thrills, depth, and unputdownable storytelling. Five stars!

If We Could Turn Back Time by Sian O'Gorman is an absolute joy of a read that transported me straight to the heart of Sandycove. The picturesque Irish setting, beautifully described by the author, came alive with such vivid detail that I could almost smell the freshly baked soda bread and hear the chatter in the family store. 

 

From the very first page, I felt immersed in the rhythms of small-town life and completely invested in the Littleton family—three generations of women, each with their own challenges, secrets, and dreams. Alice, Ciara, and Eva felt so real and relatable, with their hopes and struggles interwoven into a heartwarming story of love, resilience, and rediscovery. 

 

Alice’s visit home after heartbreak and her journey of healing were beautifully handled, and I loved watching her reconnect with her family and rediscover her roots. Ciara’s storyline, as a single mother grappling with mid-life, was equally touching and empowering—her decision to restart the disco with her best friend Mary-Marg added a wonderful touch of nostalgia and fun to the story. And Eva, with her gentle wisdom and strong presence, was the glue that held the family together. 

 

The secrets revealed as the story progressed were perfectly paced and added just the right amount of intrigue. Conal’s grandmother’s connection to Eva, and the long-buried history between Ciara and Conal’s father, Paddy, kept me hooked. The emotional depth of these revelations, paired with the light-hearted charm of Sandycove life, created a wonderful balance. 

 

I picked this book up as a break from my usual crime and thriller reads, and it was exactly what I needed. The cover drew me in with its fun and vibrant vibe, and the story delivered on every promise. The descriptive narrative allowed me to envision every scene, and by the end, I felt like a part of this delightful community. I’m now eager to explore more books by Sian O’Gorman. 

 

Finally, a special mention must go to the food descriptions—I’m desperate for a taste of the Irish soda bread! I found this to be a thoroughly enjoyable and heartwarming read that resonated deeply with me. If you’re looking for a story brimming with charm, heartfelt moments, and delightful surprises, If We Could Turn Back Time is perfect. Five sparkling stars from me! 

C.J. Grayson’s The Little Girl in the Wardrobe is one of those thrillers that completely pulls you in from the first page. The opening scene - a desperate phone call from a terrified young girl hiding in a wardrobe - gave me chills and had me instantly hooked. From there, the story got darker, twistier, and even more gripping. 

 

The plot is packed with layers, and I loved how it kept me on my toes the whole way through. Just when I thought I’d figured something out, another twist would come along and make me question everything. Between the missing girl, the brutal murder, and all the secrets that get uncovered, there’s so much to sink your teeth into. 

 

That said, I did find the large cast of characters a little tricky to follow at times. The way first and last names were used interchangeably left me a bit confused, especially when some of the characters didn’t feel as fleshed out as I would’ve liked. It made it harder to connect with them fully, which I think is why I struggled to keep track of everyone at certain points. But honestly, that didn’t stop me from flying through the book in a single day. I couldn’t put it down! The pacing was relentless, and the twists just kept coming. Even when I felt slightly overwhelmed by the complexity, the tension and intrigue were so strong that I couldn’t tear myself away. 

 

If you enjoy dark, layered thrillers that keep you guessing right until the end, this one’s definitely worth picking up. Despite a few small challenges, I found it completely gripping, and it’s left me excited to see what C.J. Grayson comes up with next. 

Alesha Dykema's If She’s Found is a tense and gripping thriller that delves into every parent's worst nightmare: the disappearance of a child. Dykema pulls readers into the quiet town of Spencer, Michigan, where Andi and Charlie’s seemingly perfect life is shattered when their eight-year-old daughter, Bella, vanishes overnight. 

 

From the very beginning, it’s clear that these parents have something to hide, which immediately hooked me and kept me turning the pages to uncover their secrets. The story is packed with twists and suspense, and the fast-moving narrative made this a quicker, engaging read. While some details—like broader investigations or community involvement—are not explored in depth, this focus keeps the story tightly centred on Andi and Charlie’s experience, maintaining its momentum. 

 

The parents’ actions, especially regarding Bella’s disappearance, kept me guessing, and even by the end, I found myself puzzled by some of their choices. However, the atmosphere of unease that Dykema creates is gripping, and I was intrigued to see how everything would unfold. 

 

If you’re looking for a psychological thriller with unreliable narrators, an air of mystery, and plenty of tension, If She’s Found is a solid pick. Its compact length and sharp pacing make it an excellent choice for fans of fast-paced, twisty reads.

4-Star Review: A Gripping Tale of Friendship, Secrets, and Retribution

This novel was an engaging and unexpected read for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The author was new to me, and I’ll admit I probably wouldn’t have picked this book up if it hadn’t been part of a book tour. But I’m so glad I did! 

 

The story follows three lifelong friends—Penny, Holly, and Lisa—who reunite for a rare girls’ weekend. On the surface, it’s a chance to relax and catch up, but even before the weekend begins, it’s clear there are secrets simmering under the surface. As the drinks flow, the layers of their lives are peeled back, revealing hidden truths. Each woman has suffered mistreatment from her partner, but out of shame, fear, or pride, they’ve kept their pain to themselves—until now. 

 

The dynamics of their friendship are beautifully written. Despite drifting apart over the years—living far away and communicating mostly through WhatsApp—they still share an unspoken bond. Once together, their old familiarity resurfaces, allowing them to read between the lines like no one else. 

 

After one too many drinks, the women hatch a bold, reckless plan: to reclaim their lives by getting rid of their toxic, manipulative husbands—permanently. What starts as a wine-fuelled fantasy takes a dark turn the next day, spiralling into a dangerous reality. Even with their pact in place, their unspoken truths continue to bubble beneath the surface, threatening to derail their plans. 

 

The plot was gripping, blending dark humour and suspense to create a story that kept me hooked. I particularly appreciated how the author captured the complexities of female friendship—especially how even the closest bonds can be strained by shame and silence. The premise—while far-fetched—is a cheeky, dramatic "what if" that many might joke about on a girls’ night, but here it’s taken to thrilling extremes. 

If I had one critique, it’s that some twists felt a touch predictable. That said, the engaging execution and the rich interplay between the three women more than made up for it. 

 

Overall, this was a compelling and entertaining read. If you’re in the mood for a mix of dark secrets, suspense, and the power of friendship, I’d highly recommend it!

The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke is a compelling western tale that masterfully blends adventure, mystery, and heartfelt character development. While this isn’t my usual genre, I’m so glad I took a chance on it as part of the virtual book tour – it turned out to be a refreshing and engaging read! 

 

The story centres on Josh Barnes, a man grappling with memory loss after a near-fatal encounter, and Amy Tanner, a determined young woman on a mission to find lost Jesuit gold to save her struggling family. Together, they embark on a perilous journey filled with unexpected twists, from facing ruthless bank robbers to uncovering eerie secrets on Devil’s Mountain. 

 

The rich, historical setting immediately drew me in, transporting me to a time when life’s values and challenges were so different from our own. While the pacing was slower than I typically prefer, the vivid storytelling kept me engaged throughout. Josh’s amnesia added a fascinating layer of mystery – though it initially made me cautious of his character, I soon found myself rooting for his redemption and his growing connection with Amy. Their evolving bond felt both authentic and deeply moving, adding a heartfelt touch to the high-stakes adventure. 

For fans of westerns or stories that combine danger, romance, and mystery, The Shattered Past is a must-read. It’s a tale of resilience, trust, and second chances that will keep you turning the pages. I’m thrilled to know this is the first in a new series, and I look forward to seeing what Josh and Amy uncover next! 

 

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of historical westerns, adventurous romances, and stories that blend mystery with heart-pounding action. 

 

I’m truly appreciative of the opportunity to be part of the blog tour for The Shattered Past by Janey Clarke. The tour runs from 15 to 24 January 2025, hosted by ZooLoo’s Book Tours on behalf of Janey Clarke and Blossom Spring Publishing. Thank you for introducing me to a new genre and a talented author! 

 

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Carolina Jax delivers a heartfelt and beautifully crafted story in Wrapped in Winter, blending emotional depth with just the right touch of spice. This small-town romance is a perfectly paced journey of love, healing, and second chances that will warm your heart even on the chilliest winter day. 

 

The plot is wonderfully balanced, pulling me in from the first page and keeping me captivated throughout. I loved how the story didn’t shy away from real emotions and struggles while still providing that warm, feel-good experience we all crave. January and Drake’s chemistry is palpable, and their journey to finding each other is both touching and genuine. 

 

One of the standout elements for me was the full cast of characters. The family dynamic in this story was beautifully portrayed, making me feel like I was part of their close-knit world. The family-run business added a layer of charm, and the snowy Montana town of Wintervale was so vividly described that I felt like I was right there with them, sipping hot cocoa by the fire. 

 

The relationship between Drake and January’s three-year-old daughter, Lily, was an absolute delight. Watching Lily form her own bond with him while the adults navigated their complicated feelings was heartwarming and added so much depth to the story. 

 

I laughed, I cried (happy tears!), and I finished the book with a huge smile on my face. It’s a perfect happily-ever-after that leaves you eager to explore the rest of the series and meet more of the Nilsson family. 

 

If you’re looking for a cozy, steamy contemporary romance with a strong found-family theme, Wrapped in Winter is the book for you. Carolina Jax has crafted a gem that’s sure to become a favourite. I wish I could pack my bags and move to Wintervale—it’s just that magical! 

 

Sweet Little Lies by Leah Cupps delivers a delectable blend of mystery and romance with a dark chill. Set against the charming backdrop of a small-town bakery, this psychological thriller explores love, betrayal, and the secrets we hide - even from ourselves. 

Reese and Tucker’s whirlwind romance, shadowed by anonymous threats and unsettling mysteries, creates a story that keeps readers curious until the very end. As Reese delves deeper into the enigma surrounding Tucker's past - particularly the mysterious disappearance of his ex-fiancée - the stakes rise, leading to a satisfying conclusion. 

While I found the characters more flawed and self-interested than I expected for a small-town setting, their unlikable traits added an intriguing layer of complexity to the story. The tension builds subtly, making this a compelling mystery with just enough twists to keep you guessing. Leah Cupps’ straightforward writing style ensures the story is easy to follow, and I appreciated the well-crafted plot that propelled me to uncover the truth. 

If you enjoy psychological mysteries with complex characters and a splash of romance, Sweet Little Lies deserves a spot on your reading list. It’s ideal for readers who prefer suspense that simmers rather than boils over.

A Disturbingly Real and Gripping Psychological Thriller

Love You to Death by Rowen Chambers is the most unsettling yet compelling book I have ever read. From the first page, I was drawn into Avery’s world. A life that seems perfect on the surface but is riddled with cracks as she begins piecing together fragments of her forgotten past.

The writing is so vivid and realistic that it felt as though I was living every moment alongside Avery. The creeping tension and emotional turmoil were so intense that I found myself physically reacting to the story - more than once, the hairs on my arms stood on end, and I even felt waves of nausea. That’s an experience no other book has ever evoked for me.

There were times when I had to put the book down because it felt overwhelmingly disturbing, but I couldn’t leave it unfinished. The need to uncover the truth about Avery’s memories and Logan’s role in her life was irresistible. The twists and turns kept me on edge, and the conclusion left me both stunned and deeply satisfied.

Rowen Chambers has crafted an unforgettable psychological thriller that gets under your skin and stays with you long after the final page. If you’re searching for a book that will captivate and unsettle you in equal measure, Love You to Death is an absolute must-read.

Charlotte Barnes masterfully blurs the lines between reality and fiction in A Guilty Woman, a riveting psychological thriller that probes the murky depths of guilt, storytelling, and the secrets we carry. From the moment Caroline unapologetically pulls the trigger in a crowded hotel bar, readers are drawn into a taut narrative that is as much about the crime itself as it is about the enigmatic woman at its centre. 

 

Barnes’ decision to structure the novel around Caroline’s evolving narrative—a true-crime podcast, media frenzy, courtroom drama, and the manuscript she pens in prison—creates a layered storytelling approach that keeps readers hooked. The podcast element, in particular, injects a fresh, modern perspective, capturing the voyeuristic fascination society has with crimes and their perpetrators. 

 

Caroline is a complex protagonist. While her actions are undeniably horrific, Barnes carefully unveils her past through her writings and interactions, forcing readers to grapple with empathy and judgment. The ambiguity of her motives, combined with the question of how much her manuscript reveals truth or fabrications, elevates the tension and keeps you guessing. 

 

Barnes’ prose is sharp and evocative, painting vivid scenes of the courtroom, Caroline’s psychological turmoil, and the media frenzy surrounding the case. The pacing is relentless but balanced, giving readers moments to reflect before plunging into another shocking revelation. 

 

The novel's only drawback is its slightly rushed resolution. While the climax is satisfying, some threads could have been explored further, particularly around the manuscript’s final revelations and the fallout they spark. That said, this minor quibble does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the story. 

 

Final Thoughts 

 

A Guilty Woman is a gripping exploration of guilt, media, and the stories we tell to make sense of the incomprehensible. Fans of psychological thrillers and true-crime narratives will find much to love here. Charlotte Barnes delivers a thought-provoking and addictive read that lingers long after the final page.