January was an epic reading month for me! I powered through 15 books and a whopping 4,788 pages—which, honestly, might be a personal record. It was a month packed with thrillers (8 of them!), fresh discoveries, and a few surprises. All but one author was new to me (shoutout to John Delaney!), and I even found a new favourite—Listen to Mother by LJ Smith. Plus, I’m now obsessed with Julia Ibbotson’s series and plan to read them all. Here are the books that I managed to read this month!
Title: Bear Necessities Of Politics and Power
Author: Iratus Ursus Major
Genre: Non Fiction
Publisher: Bookvault Publishing
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 285
Format Read: Hardback I purchased myself
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it and recommend
About Book: Bear Necessities of Politics and Power is your crash course in political theory, history, and the tangled web of ideologies that shape the world today. Whether you’ve been called a “dirty Commie” or just survived your fifth Twitter spat of the week, this book has got you covered. The Bear takes you on a witty, no-nonsense tour through the grand (and not-so-grand) ideologies of our time.
From the stubborn grip of conservatism to the lofty promises of socialism, and the dangerous allure of fascism, The Bear shreds through political theory with claws sharpened by centuries of historical context. Not content to stop at the usual suspects like Marx, Locke, and Hobbes, this guide also dives into how their ideas are still wreaking havoc in today’s political debates. Whether you’re navigating the minefield of democracy or watching totalitarianism rear its ugly head, you’ll get the full, unapologetic breakdown of what’s wrong, what’s right, and what’s downright absurd in today’s politics.
It’s not your typical political textbook—think of it as a sharp-tongued, sarcastic, and (occasionally) hopeful guide to making sense of the chaos. If you’re looking for the perfect comeback to your next Twitter debate or just want a good laugh at the state of modern politics, Bear Necessities will get you there—without the need for a PhD in political theory (or a mute button).
My Thoughts: I first spotted Bear Necessities of Politics and Power on Instagram and wasn’t sure what to expect. Was it satire? A full-on critique of modern politics? Turns out, it’s a bit of both, and I loved it for that.
The introduction hooked me right away with the phrase “Words Matter”—a simple statement that feels more powerful than ever. The book’s humor and honesty shine through from start to finish, making it a refreshing and accessible read.
One of the best things about this book is how it doesn’t demand you agree with every point the author makes. Instead, it invites you to think, question, and engage. I found myself nodding along in some parts and fuming in others—not at the writing itself, but at the frustrating truths it exposed about today’s political landscape.
Whether you’re already a political junkie or just dipping your toes into the subject, this book breaks down complex ideas with a wit and simplicity that keeps you turning the pages.Bear Necessities of Politics and Power by Iratus Ursus Major is an insightful, irreverent, and thoroughly entertaining read. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to understand the tangled web of politics without feeling overwhelmed—or bored. Whether you’re here for the sharp wit, the crash course in ideologies, or just some solid food for thought, The Bear delivers. Highly recommend for those who love a good laugh with their political commentary!
Title: The Thursday Murder Club
Author: Richard Osman
Genre: Murder Mystery
Series: The Thursday Murder Club
Publisher: Penguin
Published Date: 2020
Book Length: 390
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: In a peaceful retirement village, four unlikely friends meet up once a week to investigate unsolved murders. But when a brutal killing takes place on their very doorstep, the Thursday Murder Club find themselves in the middle of their first live case. Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron might be pushing eighty but they still have a few tricks up their sleeves. Can our unorthodox but brilliant gang catch the killer before it's too late?
My Thoughts: The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman is the first book in the series of the same name and a delightful start to the murder mystery genre. This easy-to-read novel introduces a cast of intriguing characters whose layers unfold as the story progresses. The phrase "Don’t judge a book by its cover" feels particularly apt—not for the book itself (though I was drawn in by the simplicity of the cover, which I loved), but for the members of the Thursday Murder Club.
Osman's writing is both humorous and addictive. His engaging style had me repeatedly promising myself, "just one more paragraph," only to find I’d read a load more chapters. The chapters are short though but they do heighten the tension, making it almost impossible to put the book down.
For me though it’s the characters are what truly bring this story to life. The members of the Thursday Murder Club are unorthodox yet inspiring, their quirks making them all the more believable and endearing. Osman has a remarkable way of drawing readers into the heart of their camaraderie, making you feel as if you're part of their gang or want to be.
The budding relationship between PC Donna De Freitas and DCI Chris Hudson is another highlight of the story. Their dynamic adds an additional layer of warmth and depth to the plot.
This book feels tailor-made for fans of cosy murder mysteries, blending humour, intrigue, and charm. It’s no surprise that I found myself imagining how well this story would translate to a TV series. Having enjoyed this first instalment immensely, I’m already eager to read the next book in the series.
In conclusion, The Thursday Murder Club is a witty, heartwarming, and thoroughly entertaining mystery. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an engaging read with a dose of humour and a great cast of characters. You won’t regret joining the Thursday Murder Club!
Title: Holmes and Moriarty
Author: Gareth Rubin
Genre: Mystery Thriller Historical Crime
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 352
Format Read: Hardback
Star Rating: 3*** I liked it, it’s OK
About Book: Two adversaries. One deadly alliance. Together, can they unlock the truth? Sherlock Holmes and his faithful friend, Dr John Watson, have been hired by actor George Reynolds to help him solve a puzzle. George wants them to find out why the audience who comes to see him perform every night are the same people, only wearing disguises. Is something sinister going on and, if so, what? Meanwhile, Holmes’ archenemy, Professor James Moriarty is having problems of his own. Implicated in the murder of a gang leader, Moriarty and his second, Moran, must go on the run from the police in order to find out who is behind the set-up. But their investigation puts them in the way of Holmes and Watson and it’s not long before all four realise that they are being targeted by the same person. With lives on the line, not just their own, they must form an uneasy alliance in order to unmask the true villain. With clues leading them to a hotel in Switzerland and a conspiracy far greater than any of them expected, who can be trusted – and will anyone of them survive?
My Thoughts: Holmes and Moriarty by Gareth Rubin is a historical crime thriller that immediately caught my attention, not only because of its intriguing title but also its classical and elegant cover design. As a fan of all things Sherlock Holmes, I was excited to read this book.
Rubin’s writing aims to capture the style of the original Holmes stories, and while it evokes some of that classic charm, I found myself unconsciously comparing it to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s work. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite reach the same standard.
One of the challenges I faced while reading was following the narrative. I often felt confused about the events and the narrator's identity, even with the pictures at the beginning of each chapter. While these illustrations were a nice touch, they didn’t always provide the clarity I needed to navigate the story.
That said, as the plot unfolded, I became increasingly intrigued. Rubin introduces a good mix of characters, blending familiar faces with new additions. The interplay between them adds richness to the story, even if the overall experience didn’t fully resonate with me.
In conclusion, Holmes and Moriarty offers an interesting take on the world of Sherlock Holmes, with a historical crime twist and a solid cast of characters. While I appreciated the effort to emulate Doyle’s style, I found it didn’t quite match the original stories’ magic. For die-hard Holmes fans, it’s worth a read, but for me, I think I’ll stick to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s timeless works.
Title: Artificial Artifacts
Author: John Fennec
Genre: Sci Fi
Publisher: Whitefox Publishing Ltd
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 295
Format Read: Hardback book supplied by Love Books Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: A visionary debut collection exploring the rise of artificial intelligence and adapted technologies and their impacts on human existence.
From a small rural American town subjected to horrors brought by an elaborate deep-fake hoax, to Black Mirror-esque fables about technology dependency, age extension, and psychological invasions, Artificial Artifacts invites readers on a journey where the boundaries between human and machine blur, and the consequences of our creations become chillingly profound.
As enigmatic tech mogul Peter Byrell's story unfolds, so does the tapestry of our digital age, leaving us to ponder: in a world where truth is malleable and consciousness is encoded, what does it truly mean to be human?
My Thoughts: Artificial Artifacts by John Fennec is a Sci-Fi collection of short stories that had me hooked from the start. Whether you love or hate technology, there’s no denying it’s here to stay—and we’re only going to depend on it more in the future. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into what that future might look like, with plenty of “what ifs” to keep your mind spinning.
I do have to say, though, that while these are short stories, a couple of them felt like they dragged on a little too long for my liking. But don’t let that put you off! The scenarios explored are thought-provoking and really delve into the ways technology could be manipulated for good or bad, depending on your perspective.
One thing I found particularly clever was how the stories are connected. It’s almost as if each one branches off another, weaving together a broader picture while still reminding you of what you’ve already read. I loved spotting those little links between the stories—it kept things fresh and engaging.
The book swings between humorous and downright chilling, which I think is part of what makes it so impactful. Some parts made me laugh, while others had me sitting back and thinking, “Wow, this could actually happen.” The ideas aren’t so far-fetched that they feel like pure fantasy, which is both fascinating and a little unsettling.
Overall, Artificial Artifacts is an imaginative and insightful read that explores the complex relationship between humanity and technology. While a couple of stories could have been a bit snappier, the collection as a whole is well worth a read. It’s the kind of book that leaves you pondering long after you’ve turned the last page.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you enjoy Sci-Fi that makes you think!
Title: The Book and the Knife
Author: Paul Cobb
Genre: Historical
Series: Theign of Berewic part one
Publisher: Troubador Publishing
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 434
Format Read: Paperback supplied by Zooloos book tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: In 1031, an Arab scientist, a Jewish astronomer and a Christian monk gather under the dome of an observatory in Spain.
A foretelling written on the blade of a knife tells of a new ruler, whose power will come from the knowledge in a centuries old book. As its guardians begin to covet this knowledge for themselves, the book is drawn into the conflict between the houses of Wessex and Godwin, and England’s destiny. It will carry a secret at the heart of the succession to the English throne. But the book is in danger, from those who will use it for the wealth and power it can bring — or who want to destroy it.
From Spain to Normandy and England, The Book and the Knife: Thegn of Berewic is the story of the power of knowledge, of a generation—spanning blood feud, and of the struggle for control of England before the Norman invasion of 1066. A story of loyalty and treachery, love and hate.
My Thoughts: The Book and The Knife by Paul Cobb is a historical novel and the first in The Theign of Berewic series. I’ll admit, the cover grabbed me right away—it just oozes atmosphere! From the moment I opened the book, I was reassured by the helpful explanations of characters, their relationships, and even the pronunciations of some of the trickier historical terms. Little touches like that made it so much easier to relax and settle into the story.
The chapters are fairly short, and the pacing is steady with just the right amount of tension to keep you turning the pages. Cobb’s characters feel real and believable, and they develop beautifully as the story unfolds, giving you a real sense of the evolving narrative.
It’s obvious that Cobb has done his homework when it comes to the historical setting, and while I love history, there were moments when the book felt bogged down in detail. There were parts where I found myself skimming because I was eager to get back to the story rather than the specifics.
That said, The Book and The Knife is a truly immersive read and offers a fascinating glimpse into one of history’s pivotal periods. If you’re a fan of historical fiction, this one is definitely worth picking up. It’s a strong start to what promises to be an intriguing series, and I’m looking forward to seeing where Cobb takes the story next!
Title: If They Knew
Author: Arti Manani
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 6 hours 15 mins (293 pages)
Format Read: Audible
Star Rating: 3*** I liked it, its ok
About Book: Some secrets are better kept.
Ella-Rose is convinced she’s being watched when anonymous letters and gifts are delivered to her home.
With a secret past stopping her from seeking help from the authorities, Ella takes matters into her own hands.
As paranoia tightens its grip, Ella's desperate search for answers leads her down a twisted path of suspicion and deceit that forces her to accuse everyone she knows. But as the web of deception unravels, she makes a shocking revelation that threatens to unearth a family secret she's guarded for over a decade.
Somebody knows.
In a world where trust is a luxury and deception is the norm, IF THEY KNEW explores the depths of betrayal and the question of how well we truly know those we hold dear. Brace yourself for a journey that will leave you questioning the very foundations of trust and the sinister secrets that lie within the shadows. They say it's always someone you know. But how much do you ever really know anyone?
My Thoughts: If They Knew by Arti Manini is a psychological thriller and my very first Audible book! I have to say, the story is packed with suspense and plenty of questions that kept me hooked and listening. However, I do feel that experiencing it as an audiobook rather than reading it on the page dampened the tension a bit for me. The narration didn’t quite live up to the intensity of the storyline, which was a bit disappointing.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the main protagonist, but surprisingly, that didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the plot. I found myself eager to know how it would all end, and the twists and turns along the way kept me intrigued.
Overall, If They Knew is a solid thriller with an engaging plot and plenty of surprises. While the audiobook didn’t quite do it justice for me, I think fans of the genre might enjoy it more in print. If you’re looking for a suspenseful story with unexpected twists, it’s worth giving it a try!
Title: Sweet Little Lies
Author: Caz Frear
Genre: Mystery Crime Thriller
Series: Cat Kinsella series book 1 of 3
Publisher: Zaffre
Published Date: 2017
Book Length: 480
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: WHAT I THOUGHT I KNEW
In 1998, Maryanne Doyle disappeared and Dad knew something about it? Maryanne Doyle was never seen again. WHAT I ACTUALLY KNOW In 1998, Dad lied about knowing Maryanne Doyle. Alice Lapaine has been found strangled near Dad's pub. Dad was in the local area for both Maryanne Doyle's disappearance and Alice Lapaine's murder - FACT Connection? Trust cuts both ways . . . what do you do when it's gone?
My Thoughts: Sweet Little Lies by Caz Frear is a mystery thriller I was thrilled to receive as a present—it had been sitting on my wish list for ages! From the start, it’s clear there’s a backstory to Cat Kinsella, and I was eagerly waiting for it to unravel. She’s such a complex character, and I couldn’t help but like her. Feisty, good-hearted, and real—she completely drew me in.
This book is packed with twists and turns that kept me guessing all the way through. Frear’s writing is utterly captivating, and I was so engrossed I didn’t want to put it down. The “six degrees of separation” came to my mind as I was reading the story which added an extra layer of intrigue, making the connections and revelations even more fascinating.
If you’re looking for a gripping read that will keep you hooked to the very end, I’d definitely recommend Sweet Little Lies. It’s clever, thrilling, and so well-written. I can’t wait to read the next book by Caz Frear!
Title: Listen To Mother
Author: LJ Smith
Genre: Psychological thriller, crime mystery
Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishing
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 370
Format Read: E Book supplied by Zooloos Book Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Lesley Hamilton is starting a new life in Florence when she discovers a dead neighbour. An inexplicable mistake leads her to Paolo Bianchi, an individual unaffected by usual human emotions. His involvement in crime leaves him living in the shadowy fringes of society where decisions are made for him. When he is left to his own devices, his actions lead to tragic consequences, not just for himself but also for all those lives he touches. As Paolo’s life unravels, Gianfranco Valdi and his Caribinieri team must unpick the threads that lead to Paolo and his connection with organised crime.
My Thoughts: This is the first book I’ve read by LJ Smith, and wow, what a way to start! Listen to Mother is a gripping mystery thriller that hooked me right from the beginning. You can tell from the very first page that this is going to be a psychological rollercoaster.
The story is set in Italy, and let me just say, the descriptions woven into the narrative are absolutely stunning. It felt like I was right there, wandering through the streets and soaking in the atmosphere.
What really stood out for me was how unique and engaging the storyline was. The characters were fascinating and believable, and the eerie vibe running through the book kept me on edge the entire time. I could feel the tension building with every chapter, and Smith’s writing only drew me in further. Her knack for subtle details and those unexpected little connections—it’s like the literary version of the butterfly effect—made it impossible to put the book down.
I also loved the depth brought by one of the main characters, who is autistic. The way Smith portrayed their thoughts and feelings added another layer of richness to an already brilliant story. On top of that, the police procedural elements were a treat. Watching the investigation unfold step by step, with its twists and ever-shifting horizon, was completely engrossing.
If you love psychological thrillers packed with twists, turns, and fantastic characters, this book is a must-read. I can’t wait to see what LJ Smith writes next!
Title: Stories of a Harlem Resident
Author: Javier Sarmiento Jr
Genre: Poetry
Published Date: 2022
Book Length: 26
Format Read: E book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: This uplifting book is more than a collection of poetry. It serves as a powerful tool of inspiration detailing the daily experiences as a Harlem resident. This book belongs on every poetry enthusiast's bookshelf. Come along with the author on an emotional ride through reflection and anticipation.
My Thoughts: Stories of a Harlem Resident is a poetry book that really made an impact on me. As I read, I could feel the emotion behind every word—the hope, the drive for change, and the sheer determination. It’s one of those books where the poems are so much more than just words on a page; they carry a deeper meaning that stays with you.
The poems were an absolute pleasure to read—flowing beautifully and easy to connect with. If you’re someone who loves poetry, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a go. It’s inspiring, moving, and filled with so much heart.
Title: Aristotle for Novelists
Author: Douglas Vigliotti
Genre: Non Fiction
Publisher: Slightly Crooked
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 132
Format Read: Paperback supplied by Love Books Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: In many ways, we've been telling the same stories, over and over, for the last 2300 years. This book will show you why, and how you can do it too.
For centuries, dramatic writers have relied on Aristotelian principles to write their stories for the screen and stage—the same stories you stream and watch today. But for the first time ever, the timeless principles from Aristotle’s esteemed Poetics have been adapted for novelists.
With succinct clarity, novelist Douglas Vigliotti shows you exactly how to write a novel using tried-and-true principles that have been used since antiquity to tell great stories. These principles are the foundation on which any story can be written. Whether you are writing your first or tenth novel, Aristotle for Novelists has something to offer any serious writer of fiction. It is both a challenge to writers to simplify their craft and a no-frills, impassioned outcry for novelists everywhere.
My Thoughts: Aristotle for Novelists is a non-fiction book based on 14 principles of writing a novel. Now, I’m not a novelist myself, but as a prolific reader, I’ve always been curious about how stories are crafted. I also wondered if the lessons from this book could be applied beyond writing fiction—and that curiosity is what drew me to it.
First off, I have to mention the cover design—it’s gorgeous! It hooked me right away. The book itself is well-organised, breaking down each principle into manageable sections. It offers plenty of practical advice, making it a great starting point for anyone embarking on their writing journey. The tone is pragmatic yet sprinkled with humour, which kept me engaged throughout.
One thing I loved is that you don’t have to read it cover to cover in order. You can dip in and out as you like, which makes it feel more like a handy reference guide than a rigid manual. As a reader, I had several lightbulb moments where I found myself nodding along, realising how these principles influence the stories I enjoy. Some ideas were entirely new to me, and I could see how they might apply outside of novel-writing too.
That said, a few chapters felt a bit long for my taste, and I found myself wishing they were more concise. But overall, the layout and content make this a book you can return to again and again, whether for inspiration or a quick refresher.
If you’re a writer—or even just someone curious about the mechanics of storytelling—I think you’d find this book insightful and enjoyable!
Title: Hollow Ground
Author: Freya Wallace
Genre: Crime Mystery Thriller
Series: Detective Jacob Knox book 1
Publisher: Hamya Press
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 244
Format Read: E Book supplied by Zooloos Book Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: In the rugged wilderness of Dartmoor, school teacher Sophie Parsons vanishes without a trace during a weekend trek. For Detective Inspector Jacob Knox, Sophie’s disappearance stirs unsettling echoes of a previous case involving another woman who vanished in the same desolate moorland six months earlier.
As Knox delves deeper, he uncovers the complexities of Sophie’s personal life, including a secret affair with a charismatic colleague and a tense relationship with her long-term boyfriend, Peter. But Sophie’s tangled love life is just the beginning of Knox’s troubles. A local legend about a beast stalking the moors resurfaces, fuelling public fear and media speculation. Is it just a myth, or could something more sinister be at play?
With time running out and the possibility that two women have been claimed by the moor, Knox faces his toughest case yet—one that will test him professionally and personally. As the case unfolds, Knox realizes the dark truths buried beneath the surface of Sophie’s life may be the key to unlocking the mystery.
My Thoughts: Hollow Ground by Freya Wallace is a crime fiction book that immediately grabbed my attention. As someone who lives near Dartmoor, I couldn’t resist picking it up after reading the synopsis.
The story kicks off with a crime that pulled me in right away. The descriptions of Dartmoor are spot on, and while this is a crime novel, it also beautifully captures the essence of the area I know and love. It’s rare to find a book that balances the grit of a crime story with such vivid and heartfelt descriptions of its setting.
I really enjoyed the police procedural elements and absolutely loved Detective Jacob Knox. The characters felt so real as they evolved throughout the book, and I particularly enjoyed the interactions between Jacob and Caleb. Their conversations added a touch of warmth and even made me smile at times.
The book kept me on the edge of my seat. It was intense, with a pace that barely let up—only pausing occasionally to give me a chance to catch my breath. Wallace’s writing is clear, concise, and flows beautifully, making me feel as if I were right there, watching the events unfold.
If you’re a fan of crime fiction with a well-crafted plot, relatable characters, and a strong sense of place, I’d highly recommend Hollow Ground. It’s an engaging and immersive read that stayed with me long after I turned the last page.
Title: The Rune Stone
Author: Julia Ibbotson
Genre: Romance Time travel Sci Fi
Series: Dr Dulac Series Book 3
Publisher: Archbury Books
Published Date: 2021
Book Length: 294
Format Read: E Book supplied by Zooloos Book Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: When Dr Viv DuLac, medievalist and academic, finds a mysterious runic inscription on a Rune Stone in the graveyard of her husband’s village church, she unwittingly sets off a chain of circumstances that disturb their quiet lives in ways she never expected. She, once again, feels the echoes of the past resonate through time and into the present. Can she unlock the secrets of the runes in the life of the 6th century Lady Vivianne and in Viv’s own life? Again, lives of the past and present intertwine alarmingly as Viv desperately tries to save them both, without changing the course of history.
My Thoughts: The Rune Stone by Julia Ibbotson is a captivating blend of time travel and romance—two of my favourite genres—so I knew I had to read it. Even though this is the third book in the Dr. DuLac series and I haven’t read the first two (yet!), I was pleasantly surprised to find that it works perfectly as a standalone.
Ibbotson’s writing is like pure honey—rich, golden, and utterly irresistible. She effortlessly drew me into the two intertwining worlds where time dissolves, and the magic of the past flows seamlessly into the present. Her vivid descriptions and enchanting storytelling had me hooked from the first page.
The characters are wonderfully believable. I especially loved Vivianne and Dr. Viv Du Lac—they felt so real and relatable that I couldn’t help but root for them throughout the story.
If you’re a fan of time travel stories with a touch of romance and a beautifully woven narrative, this book is definitely for you. I’m off to get the first two books in the series!
Title: Eight Years of Lies
Author: Lisa Hall
Genre: Psychological thriller Mystery Crime
Publisher: Joffe Books
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 301
Format Read: E book supplied by Zooloos Books Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: I get a call from the school. My husband hasn’t picked up our 7-year-old daughter. This is the day my life changes for ever. Earlier, I was scrolling through Facebook when something caught my eye. A photograph. The caption beneath: PLEASE CAN ANYONE HELP ME? HAVE YOU SEEN THIS MAN? It's my husband and our daughter. The man I married eight years ago isn’t who I thought he was at all. My husband has been lying to me . . . about everything.
My Thoughts: Eight Years of Lies by Lisa Hall is a psychological thriller that hooked me from the very first page. The book is fast-paced, and before I realised it, I was already halfway through! Hall’s writing is intricate and immersive, pulling me right into the storyline and keeping me glued to the pages.
I found myself rooting for Claire and her family, desperate to uncover what had happened and how it would all turn out. At one point, I even started imagining different scenarios as if I were part of the story, helping Claire piece it all together. That’s how gripping this book is—it completely draws you in.
Lisa Hall’s storytelling is a testament to her talent, and this book is a shining example of a brilliant psychological thriller. If you love twisty, fast-paced reads that keep you guessing, you won’t want to miss Eight Years of Lies. I couldn’t put it down and can’t wait to read more from her!
Title: The Istanbul Puzzle
Author: Laurence O’Bryan
Genre: Thriller Mystery
Series: Puzzle series book 1 of 3
Publisher: Avon
Published Date: 2012
Book Length: 418
Format Read: E book purchased myself
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Buried deep under Istanbul, a secret is about to resurface with explosive consequences…
Alex Zegliwski has been savagely beheaded. His body found in an underground archaeological dig, hidden beneath the holy temple of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.
When Sean arrives in the ancient city to identify his colleague’s body, he is handed an envelope of photographs belonging to Alek and soon finds himself in grave danger. Someone wants him dead but why?
Aided by British diplomat Isabel Sharp, Sean begins to unravel the mystery of the mosaics in the photographs and inch closer to snaring Alek’s assassin. Evil is at work and when a lethal virus is unleashed on the city, panic spreads fast. Time is running out for Sean and Isabel. They must catch the killer before it’s too late.
My Thoughts: The Istanbul Puzzle by Laurence O’Bryan is a gripping thriller and the first in the Puzzle series of three books. Right from the start, it’s hard-hitting and had me hooked instantly. The story is packed with history, intrigue, and so much more—seriously, why haven’t I read this sooner?
O’Bryan’s writing is absolutely mesmerizing. The historical elements are not only fascinating but woven so seamlessly into the story that I couldn’t bring myself to put the book down. His descriptions are vivid and compelling, making the settings and characters leap off the page. At the same time, he never loses sight of the mystery and danger that keep you turning those pages. It’s a real testament to his skill as a writer.
In short, this book has everything I love in a thriller: a gripping plot, richly detailed settings, and just the right amount of twists and turns to keep me guessing. If you’re a fan of mysteries with a historical twist, I can’t recommend The Istanbul Puzzle enough. I’ll definitely be reading the next books in the series soon!
Title: Jurassic Jemma and The Mysteries of Time
Author: John J Delaney
Genre: Mystery Crime
Series: Jurassic Jemma book 2 of 3
Published Date: 2023
Book Length: 354
Format Read: E book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Revenge is a dish best served cold. Fossil hunter, ‘Jurassic’ Jemma Thorne is filming a live edition of ‘The Rock Detectives’ covering the excavation of a fossilised Spinosaurus on the Isle of Wight. Things don’t go to plan as she makes an unexpected discovery. The find sets off a chain of events that threatens her freedom, her family and her life. Someone is after revenge. How far will they go to destroy everything that Jemma holds dear? Can she protect her loved ones in a race against time?
My Thoughts: Jurassic Jemma and The Mysteries of Time is the second book in the Jurassic Jemma series and a mystery crime novel. Having read and enjoyed the first book, I was really looking forward to this one—and I’m happy to say it didn’t disappoint!
Delaney’s writing flows at a great pace, keeping me fully engaged in the world of Jemma Thorne and the stunning Jurassic Coast. The characters feel so real, with their day-to-day lives woven seamlessly into the central mystery. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep the story alive and kicking, which made it impossible for me to put the book down. I love that you get to know and love characters when there is a series of books
I’ll admit, I didn’t agree with some of Jemma’s choices along the way, but honestly, that just shows how much I was invested in her story and what happened to her.
If you’re a fan of mysteries with well-drawn characters and a setting that’s practically a character in itself, this series is well worth reading. I can’t wait to see where Jemma’s adventures take her next!
And that’s a wrap on my January reads! It was such a fun mix of thrills, twists, and new-to-me authors, and I can’t wait to see what February brings. Have you read any of these? Or do you have recommendations for what I must pick up next? Let’s chat in the comments—I love hearing your bookish thoughts!
Love Alis x
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you and helps support the content I create. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you would like to contact me, you can through my website https://www.apagebookclub.com or via email at apagebookclub@gmail.com or via instagram at https://instagram.com/alisbookstagram_
Comments