Tag Archives: Mystery

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A Ghost for Christmas

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While the pacing was somewhat slow at times, it still proved to be quite entertaining, and the mystery gripped my attention. I was pleasantly surprised by the plot twist—I was completely wrong about the identity of the killer, and I always appreciate when a story can mislead me so effectively. This is my first experience with this author, and I’m curious to see how their writing evolves in future installments.

The characters initially felt a bit vague and underdeveloped, but I have faith that as the series progresses, they will become more fleshed out and relatable. The setting is established as a quaint little wine town in California, which adds a charming backdrop to the unfolding drama.

The protagonist, Mele Keahi, arrives in town to visit her aunt, seeking solace after enduring the emotional turmoil of a recent breakup. She looks forward to reconnecting with her favorite relative and enjoying the peace and quiet that she so desperately needs. However, her plans take a shocking turn when she discovers a dead body on her aunt’s front walkway upon her arrival. This gruesome find sets the stage for a riveting mystery.

In addition to the unsettling murder, Mele must grapple with the unexpected return of her handsome childhood ghost and the pros½pect of a new romantic interest arriving on the scene. The central question looms: can she assist in unraveling the mystery of the killer’s identity before she becomes the next target?

The introduction of a large ensemble of characters sometimes made it challenging to keep track of everyone, but it ultimately contributed to the rich tapestry of the story. I wished for a bit more build-up before the body was discovered; revealing it earlier diminished the tension that could have been cultivated. Nevertheless, the entertainment value and compelling mystery kept me engaged until the final page and sparked my interest in exploring more books in this series.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟½

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Valley of the Shadow

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I have been a devoted reader of this series since its inception with the Elemental Mysteries, and each new release from any of its various offshoots continues to bring me joy and excitement. The characters within this expansive universe are masterfully crafted, each one intricately developed and brought to life with a vibrancy that makes them feel almost real. This dynamic cast not only enhances the storytelling but also makes for an engaging and enjoyable reading experience. The setting itself is a remarkable blend of the familiar world and fantastical elements, allowing readers to easily recognize aspects of reality while still being immersed in a rich, imaginative landscape. The author’s writing is nothing short of exceptional, consistently drawing me back for more adventures and stories.

In this particular book, we are treated to a heartwarming reunion of many beloved couples from previous installments, as they come together to celebrate the holiday season while also rallying for a significant occasion. Among them, we get an in-depth look at the lives of Baojia and Natalie, one of the series’ most cherished couples.

For eight years, Baojia and Natalie have endeavored to lead as normal a life as possible within the complexities of an immortal existence. Their focus on nurturing family ties, advancing their careers, maintaining friendships, and deepening their love for one another has largely been successful. However, reality is about to intrude in a significant way, confronting them with challenges they believed they had ample time to prepare for. As is often the case, the situation grows increasingly complicated, presenting unforeseen obstacles that test their resilience.

What stands out in this narrative is the powerful theme of support and chosen family. Despite the impending trials, Baojia and Natalie are not alone; they are surrounded by a supportive network of both human and vampire friends who come together to offer comfort and assistance. This sense of community adds layers to the story and highlights the strength found in relationships.

The serious themes tackled in this book could have easily been mishandled, but the author navigates them with remarkable sensitivity and understanding. There is a perfect balance of humor interwoven with the more somber moments, showcasing the courage required to confront life-altering situations. This blend elevates the story, making it both emotionally resonant and uplifting.

I absolutely adored this installment and, although it is intended to be a finale for Baojia and Natalie, I sincerely hope we will see more of them in future works set in this vivid universe. I highly recommend this book to anyone who hasn’t yet experienced its magic; it’s truly a must-read!

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

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The Bank of the River

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I thoroughly enjoyed this captivating story, and I found myself immersed in the characters as they were gradually introduced. Last year, I read book 11, drawn in by its Christmas setting, which made it a perfect addition to my holiday reading list. I enjoyed it so much that I was eager to journey back to the beginning to uncover the origins of these characters and understand their development leading up to that point.

From the very first page, the narrative held my attention with its charm, despite its relatively simple and straightforward plot. The main characters are vividly portrayed, making it easy to connect with their personalities right away. The world they inhabit feels remarkably familiar—akin to our own lives—which adds an extra layer of relatability. Although there were a few moments of confusion regarding which character was speaking, that was a minor issue in an otherwise engaging story.

At the center of the tale is Steven Hall, a character who has always been dubious about anything supernatural or paranormal. His skepticism even extends to religion, shaped by his mother’s intense obsession. This aspect of his upbringing provides a deeper understanding of his complex personality. Upon purchasing an old house, Steven suddenly finds himself tormented by the restless spirits of murdered children. This eerie experience begins to challenge and sway his long-held views on the unseen world around him.

Desperate for answers and support, Steven turns to his father, Roy, who has always possessed a sense of the extraordinary that Steven never quite understood. Roy steps in to assist his son in confronting the malevolent entities haunting their home while simultaneously guiding him toward discovering his own latent abilities regarding the supernatural. Yet, as is often the case, just when they begin to find clarity, their situation seems to spiral further into chaos.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book, as I found it to be an enjoyable read, and I believe the series will only grow increasingly rich and engaging as it progresses. Dive into the River and enjoy the adventure that awaits!

My rating: 💖💖💖💖

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Four Past Midnight

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Based on an average of my rating it comes to 3.4 stars for the entire book.

I’ve revisited some familiar stories recently, and I’ve found that listening to audiobooks adds a unique dimension to the experience. The nuanced performances by various narrators bring elements of the tales to life in unexpected ways. Each narrator infuses their own style, which can significantly alter the listener’s perception of the story. The variety of genres—ranging from fantasy to science fiction, and even horror—makes each listen an adventure in itself.

**4.5 stars: ‘The Langoliers’ narrated by Willem Dafoe.** This story remains one of my top favorites, a gripping staple that never fails to entertain me. Dafoe’s vocal delivery is fantastic; he possesses a remarkable ability to build tension, which is crucial as the passengers begin to unravel the mystery of their predicament. The narrative follows a routine flight that unexpectedly descends into terror as the characters grapple with their bizarre situation: they’ve become lost in an unsettling limbo, with no clue as to the fate of the other passengers. The ensemble cast portrays a diverse array of personalities, each contributing to the overall tension and suspense as they navigate their harrowing circumstances.

**2.5 stars: ‘Secret Window, Secret Garden’ narrated by James Woods.** Unfortunately, this story has never resonated with me, and my feelings haven’t changed in this audio format. Despite my appreciation for the source material, Woods’ narration falls a bit flat—it lacks the engaging energy I hoped for. The plot centers on a tense standoff between a writer and an enigmatic figure who claims that the story has been stolen from him, leading to dangerous consequences. While this concept draws parallels to other King tales I’ve enjoyed, it ultimately fails to stand out, leaving me wanting more depth and excitement.

**4.0 stars: ‘The Library Policeman’ narrated by Ken Howard.** Upon starting this narration, I couldn’t initially place Ken Howard, but once I recognized his distinctive voice, I became completely immersed. His performance was a joy to listen to, effectively bringing the characters and their eerie world to life. This slowly unfolding tale lingers with an unsettling sense of dread. The local library, typically a sanctuary for readers, is depicted as a place harboring dark secrets and lurking dangers. Howard expertly balances the mundane and the sinister, making for a vampire story that surprises with an ingeniously hidden twist. The characters are intricately developed, each contributing peculiarities that enhance the overall chilling narrative.

**2.5 stars: ‘The Sun Dog’ narrated by Tim Sample.** While I couldn’t recognize Tim Sample’s face, his narration is solid; he delivers the story well, even if it didn’t particularly captivate my attention. The pacing here is slow, evoking a sense of anticipation as it connects to other stories within the King universe, which I find intriguing. The plot revolves around a boy who receives a seemingly perfect camera as a birthday gift, but like many King stories, it hints at underlying ominous themes. As the boy interacts with the camera, he begins to unravel a potentially malevolent tale that he wishes to leave unfinished. Although I appreciated the connections to other narratives, the story didn’t quite hold my attention as much as I had hoped.

Listening to these stories, especially if you’ve read them before, is likely to evoke similar feelings and nostalgia. Stephen King has consistently offered me gripping tales throughout the years, and I keep returning to his work because of the satisfaction it brings. If you haven’t yet explored his audiobooks, I wholeheartedly encourage you to dive in—you’ll likely find as much to enjoy in the spoken word as you have in the written page!

My rating: 😚😚😚

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The Curse of the House on Cypress Lane: Book 0

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The book initially didn’t captivate my interest right away, but as I continued reading, it gradually became more engaging as I learned more about the characters and their complex situations. The narrative’s buildup is rather slow, yet it is not lacking in subtleties; the connections between various plot points are evident almost from the outset. What I found intriguing is that this novella claims to be the starting point of a larger narrative, but it feels misleading, as the events that unfold seem to have roots much deeper in the past than what is presented. I wish the author had provided more background about the house and the individuals who played a crucial role in setting everything in motion. As this is my first encounter with this author, I’m curious to explore his storytelling methods further, as every writer has a unique approach to story development.

The central setting, a grand old house at the end of Cypress Lane, is steeped in history, intricately woven with the fabric of the small town of Ocoee, Louisiana. The Cooley family becomes deeply entwined in this enigmatic history, finding themselves in a harrowing fight for their survival, caught in circumstances beyond their control. The protagonist, Owen Cooley, has been unemployed for six months with no promising leads on the horizon. When he receives an unexpected job offer after a rather typical phone interview—one that would necessitate a drastic move for his family—he eagerly seizes the opportunity without really delving into the details about the place he’s being sent to. This situation embodies the classic adage: if something seems too good to be true, it likely warrants a closer examination. Owen certainly should have looked a bit deeper, especially for the sake of his family.

Despite its slow start, the story intrigued me enough that I wanted to continue exploring the mysteries surrounding the house and its inhabitants. While it didn’t evoke outright fear in me, it undeniably carries a pervasive atmosphere of darkness that resonated with my taste. I would certainly recommend this book to those who are in search of a horror read filled with potential and rich narrative threads.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

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Genome

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**Not as Good as the First Book**

Although I found some enjoyment in this book, I struggled to stay engaged with the story. There were moments when the plot felt overly dramatic, and the overall length made it a bit of a slog to get through. The characters, however, were still thoughtfully crafted and relatable, making them easy to root for despite the pacing issues. Unfortunately, there were times when I set the book aside for several days simply because it failed to capture my interest. I may be a little too generous in giving it 3 stars, but I acknowledge that the underlying story has merit, even if it wasn’t entirely captivating.

My rating: 💫💫💫

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Midnight Labyrinth

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The first three novellas provide a solid introduction to the series, acquainting us with key characters in Ben and Tenzin’s story. I give it 4.5 stars for the significant enjoyment it offers. Though not immediately gripping, by the second chapter, I was fully engaged and eager to see what would unfold next. The introduction of new characters and the return of familiar ones is appreciated after some time.

Benjamin Vecchio has abandoned his tumultuous life in New York, where he was raised by a famed vampire assassin. Now an adult, he comes back to the city that once brought him sorrow, intent on establishing an identity separate from his aunt and uncle. With Tenzin at his side, Ben begins to set up an antiquities recovery business in New York, echoing Giovanni’s rare book enterprise in California.

On a business outing one night, Ben encounters Chloe, his high school sweetheart, and they rekindle their relationship. Chloe introduces Ben to the works of Emil Samson, her celebrated artist, at an art gallery. There, Ben is struck by two discoveries: a troubling story from a young woman tied to a missing artwork, part of a trilogy, which he pledges to find pro bono, much to Tenzin’s chagrin. Moreover, their endeavors rarely proceed without complications.

This installment brings just the right amount of thrill, setting the stage for future books. It also addresses a grave domestic issue with appropriate sensitivity and attention. The experience is highly enjoyable, particularly when experienced through an audiobook that brings the characters to life vividly.

My rating: ✯✯✯✯½

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Imitation and Alchemy

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Once more, I was drawn into the world of these unique vampires with their fascinating lives. The humans connected to them are equally intriguing, living alongside predators who are just a moment away from turning on them. The seamless introduction of new characters gives an immediate understanding of their personas.

Ben expected a tranquil summer before his final college semester, but that was wishful thinking. Tenzin, intrigued by the prospect of locating a trove of invaluable medieval coins for the vampire ruling Naples, planned a trip to Italy.

Ben vowed not to get entangled in another of Tenzin’s plots. A year later, he finds himself on the brink of another Italian adventure with her, lacking crucial details. Once again, Tenzin’s actions surprise him, revealing hidden agendas. Yet, this apparent debacle might have a silver lining.

The sequel may lack the action of its predecessor, but it offers a more compelling narrative that delves deeper into Ben and Tenzin’s relationship. Ben contemplates his significance to Tenzin, who appears to have claimed him as her own. As they embark on their new partnership and living situation, their lives are bound to become even more entwined.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

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The St. Valentine’s Day Cookie Massacre

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The story was quite engaging, despite my reservations about the character development. Having never read anything by this author, I’m open to exploring more of their work if it maintains this level of quality. The narrative was compelling enough to keep me reading, even though I questioned the rationale behind the characters’ interactions. It took a moment to immerse myself, but once I did, it was difficult to stop reading. The setting was adequately described, and familiar due to the state, despite the town’s small size.

On Valentine’s Day in Hatters Cove, Florida, food critic/columnist Kat Archer is tasked with writing a review for the grand opening of Miss Dolly’s Cookie Jar and Sweets Emporium. What appears to be a routine assignment quickly escalates into a major event. An altercation at the opening and a mysterious late-night call to discuss an urgent matter set the stage.

The plot thickens when an employee of the Cookie Jar is discovered murdered by poison, suggesting a sinister twist. It appears the victim was unintended, and Kat was the actual intended target.

The mystery is well-crafted, presenting numerous suspects with a wide array of motives.

My rating: ✧✧✧

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A Stone Kissed Sea

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I enjoyed getting a chance to really get to know Doctor Lucien Thrax after having met him in earlier novels. This revealed a great deal about him as an individual while also giving us the chance to meet his Sire, Saba, and the other ancients who have made cursory appearances since the original Elemental Mystery novels. The characters have all become more textured and nuanced as the series has progressed giving more depth and life to the world they inhabit. Knowing that this is the last novel set in this particular world made it bittersweet.

Lucien has been working on a cure for Elixir for the past three years without any luck, though he has had a few breakthroughs in detecting usage. The elimination of Elixir is very personal to him due to a loss he suffered because of it, it has also caused him to build a wall around his heart. Dr. Makeda Abel is a human under the aegis of Katya who has been funding the work of Lucien into the Elixir problem. Katya has also been funding the research of Makeda into human blood diseases and their possible cures.

Katya decides that even though Lucien has been working very hard and is making her money he could use some help. Makeda is sent to collaborate with Lucien, even though he would prefer to work alone. Lucien for his part does not take it well and does everything he can to make things difficult for Makeda, and because she would prefer not to be there she does not immediately fall in line. Though both of them are brilliant they cannot see what is right in front of them.

Power, Passion, and Politics. These are three things which drive the vampires as well as the humans in all our stories. You get a healthy dose of all three here as things go from good to bad to worse and back to good again. There is some good action along with a few steamy scenes that are fairly tame, though still hot enough for most. I believe fans will be more than happy with how things play out here.

** I listened to this for my second go with this as I have for the previous books in the series. It is just as compelling when listened to as when you read it. The narrator is fantastic and gives voice and life to all the characters. Enjoy this both ways.

My rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟