Category: Bookouture

#Review | THE MARRIAGE SECRET by Carey Baldwin

The Marriage Secret by Carey Baldwin
Genre: Psychological Thriller
My Rating: 5

Publisher: Bookouture
Publication Date: February 11, 2022
ASIN: B09M79VMSK
Pages: 306
Review Copy From: Publisher via NetGalley
Edition: Kindle

Synopsis (via GR)

He married me despite my darkest secret. But am I safe now that I know his?

From the outside, my marriage to Zach was perfect: dream home, a perfect baby girl and passionate, all-consuming love. When we met, I confessed my darkest secret to him and he never judged me for it. Instead, he vowed to always protect me whatever the cost.

But as I cradle my gorgeous baby, I have to accept that the husband who used to be my everything, has changed. At first it was little things: expecting me to keep to a strict schedule, picking out my clothes for me. Now, he controls every aspect of my life: from how much money I have, to when I leave the house and who I can see.

One fateful night, a young woman is found murdered and Zach is a potential suspect. Turning towards me, a look of warmth returning to his eyes, he swears he’s innocent, and I realize there is only one solution. If I agree to be his alibi, he will keep my secret and our daughter can grow up in a loving home. In that moment, I do what any faithful wife would do: I stand by him.

But I know deep down, only one of us will make it out of this marriage alive.

My Thoughts

WOW!!!! What a read!! But then, I’m not surprised.

I have been a fan of this author since reading Notorious in 2016 and have read every one of her books since.

According to Holly, she and Zach, an OB-GYN, have the perfect marriage, especially after the birth of their beautiful daughter, Jolene. In spite of the secrets that they know about each other and have promised never to tell. Or she thought.

Not long after, things changed. Holly started to have strange incidents and hallucinations. Holly denied it all but Zach saw the changes. And because of that, Zach felt he need to be aware and controlling because he was afraid for their daughter.

Is the obvious always the obvious?

This was a nail-biting read!!! I thoroughly thought so!!!

I pictured every single thing in my mind, so for me, this was like a movie in my head and sitting on the edge of my chair.

The ending! THE ENDING!!!!! Or should I say the endings? It left me breathless!!!!

No pressure Ms. Baldwin…….BUT…….when will the next book be in my hands?

I received a complimentary copy from (Bookouture via NetGalley) in exchange for my honest opinion.

Purchase Links: Amazon 🔗 | Barnes & Noble 🔗 | Goodreads 🔗

REVIEW DISCLAIMER

  • This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
  • I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
  • I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.
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    #Review | Silent Island by Dana Perry

    Silent Island Dana Perry
    Genre: Organized Crime Thriller Police Procedural
    Published by Bookouture
    Publication Date: October 5, 2021
    ASIN: ‎ B09BCV8SW1
    Pages: 269
    Review Copy From: Publisher via NetGalley
    Edition: Kindle
    My Rating: 5

    Synopsis (via GR)

    Nancy Lavelle lies still on the floor. With her eyes looking towards her children’s rooms, her hands are clasped in prayer, as if the last thing she wished for was her children to be saved…

    When Detective Abby Pearce is called to the Beach House, a holiday home in the most affluent part of Martha’s Vineyard, she finds five bodies. An entire family has been killed in a frenzied attack… all except one. Fifteen-year-old Karin is the only survivor. Sitting in the house, surrounded by her family, she stares into the distance and doesn’t say a word.

    When Karin’s grandparents fly in to take her home, Abby’s investigation takes a shocking turn. Taking one look at the traumatised girl, they recoil—the girl curled up in a hospital bed isn’t their granddaughter. So who is she? And where is the real Karin Lavelle?

    Abby fears the missing girl is in serious danger, and with local residents worried that the killer is still on the island and the press questioning her every move, she’s under pressure to solve both crimes fast. But when she uncovers a link between Thomas Lavelle’s New York office and her previous job at the NYPD, she begins to fear that these brutal murders are a sign… and that she’s next. Can she find the killer before another life is taken, or is she walking into a trap?

    This fast-paced thriller is perfect for fans of Lisa Regan, Kendra Elliot and Mary Burton, but be warned—you won’t want to put it down!

    My Thoughts

    Caveat: Dana Perry is on my “authors to read” list so I know when I peel back that cover, I’m going to be experiencing an exceptional read…….

    With that being said, let me catch my breath. I feel like I just ran a marathon reading this story.

    This is the 2nd book in the Detective Abby Pearce series but can easily read as a stand alone. You can see my review for the 1st book Her Ocean Grave

    A dream vacation on the iconic island of Martha’s Vineyard. But the entire Lavelle family has been murdered in their hotel room not long after arriving. From there, the action doesn’t diminish with each page that is turned.

    Mr. Perry has a gift of writing stories within stories, mysteries within mysteries, which this book had, which was gripping and tense. I was so engrossed that I felt that I was also on the island and trailing Det. Abby Pearce on her hunt for the killer or killers.

    A nail biter of a read!!! Chilling and riveting!!!!

    A totally entertaining read from start to finish!!! Now I’m ready for the sequel!!!!

    I received a complimentary copy from Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

    Purchase Links: Amazon 🔗 | Barnes & Noble 🔗 | Goodreads 🔗

    REVIEW DISCLAIMER

  • This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
  • I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
  • I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.
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    #Review | The Trapped Wife by Samantha Hayes

    The Trapped Wife by Samantha Hayes
    Genre: Psychological Thriller
    Published by Bokouture
    Publication Date: September 8, 2021
    ASIN: ‎ B0977J5ZBG
    Pages: 354
    Review Copy From: Bookouture via NetGalley
    Edition: Kindle
    My Rating: 4

    Synopsis (via GR)

    My family gathers around the large oak table in our beautifully renovated home. I’ve put on a dress and lit candles, and there’s a wonderful aroma coming from the dinner you’ve so lovingly prepared. I feel your hand squeeze mine as you top up my glass and ask about my day as a doctor in our small town. It’s the perfect domestic scene, except for one tiny fact: I think my husband is dead, and you are just another patient of mine…

    I had no choice but to let you in. If I laugh at your jokes and run my fingers through your hair, maybe I can delete the photos on your phone and find the truth about the night I can’t remember, just before my husband left on the trip he never returned from. Perhaps my son and I will have a chance at a normal life again.

    But as I carefully piece together the shards of what really happened that fateful night, only one thing can possibly be true: everyone is lying, even me…

    My Thoughts

    After reading The Liar’s Wife I was excited to see that Ms. Hayes had a new book out and that I had to get my hands on a copy.

    I found the first third of the book to be very slow. And I have to be honest that a couple of times, I was thinking of putting this one aside. But my gut told me to keep going, especially after checking out some reviews that had been posted.

    Then the second third of the book I felt that I had figured the plot out, but I had to keep reading to see if I was right. Was I?

    Then BAM!!! The last third of the book was so suspenseful that I couldn’t read, nor turn the pages fast enough!!! The story continued at breakneck speed that I found myself holding my breath

    The conclusion was hair raising that I finished reading it with my mouth wide open because it was so unexpected.

    Ms. Hayes has written another great read!!! Now I wait for her next novel!!

    Would I recommend this book? Absolutely!!!

    Purchase Links: Amazon 🔗 | Barnes & Noble 🔗 | Goodreads 🔗

    I received a complimentary copy from XXX via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

    REVIEW DISCLAIMER

  • This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
  • I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
  • I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.
  •  

    #Review | Just Married by Kiersten Modglin

    Just Married by Kiersten Modglin
    Genre: Suspense. Psychological Thriller
    Published by Bookouture
    Publication Date: July 5, 2021
    ASIN: ‎ B0949JZK8X
    Pages: 184
    Review Copy From: Publisher via NetGalley
    Edition: eARC
    My Rating: 5

    Synopsis (via GR)

    When my husband found this perfect little cabin in the woods for our honeymoon, I couldn’t wait to get away. Just us in the middle of the forest, waking up every day in the trees, ending each night in the hot tub under the stars. But now I’m not sure that I know my husband at all…

    I just wish we’d gone to the police when someone left a note on the doormat saying: She’s dead, you’re next. Ryan said I was overreacting, but I don’t understand why he won’t go to the cops now things are getting worse. Can I trust my husband?

    I’ve known about the terrible thing that Ryan did for years and it’s been tearing me apart. Last night I told him I would always keep his secret. But is the man I married hiding something else from me?

    Now someone has cut the phone lines and we’re trapped here. Ryan swears he has no idea what’s going on and just wants to keep us safe. I’m here alone in the middle of the dark forest with the man I thought I could trust. My heart is racing and there’s no one I can call…

    My husband promised till death do us part. Am I about to find out what that means?

    A heart-pounding, unbelievably twisty psychological thriller that will have you sleeping with the light on! Fans of Gone Girl, Behind Closed Doors and Date Night will be utterly gripped.

    My Thoughts

    I found this author from a Facebook group I am a member of and have read a couple of her books and each one has been captivating. I hope to read all of her books, they are that good!

    Ryan surprises his wife with an overdue honeymoon in a secluded cabin in the woods. Unbeknownst to them, this cabin has a history. Or was this known when it was booked? Around town, it’s called “the murder cabin” because 2 previous guests died under suspicious circumstances and the killer was never found.

    Then the next day, after a hike and running into a homeless man, their romantic honeymoon turns into a nightmare.

    Ryan and Grace are holding secrets from the other. Secrets that could become deadly.

    I could not put this book down. Eerie twists and turns that will have the hairs on your neck standing up. A chilling, page turning read!

    Check this author out. I guarantee you will be hooked.

    Purchase Links: Amazon 🔗 | Barnes & Noble 🔗 | Goodreads 🔗

    REVIEW DISCLAIMER

  • This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
  • I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
  • I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.
  •  

    #Review | Her Ocean Grave by Dana Perry

    Her Ocean Grave by Dana Perry
    Genre: Police Procedural, Thriller
    Published by Bookouture
    Publication Date: June 2, 2021
    ISBN 1800193858 (ISBN-13: 978-1800193857)
    ASIN: B091CRDBK2
    Pages: 290
    Review Copy From: Publisher
    Edition: Print/Kindle
    My Rating: 5

    Synopsis (via GR)

    Over the cliff edge, she sees a broken body on the jutting rocks below, the waves crashing all around. She can’t see the girl’s face, which is covered by her long, brown hair. But she knows her. She met her just yesterday…

    When Samantha Claymore doesn’t return home after an afternoon bicycle ride on Martha’s Vineyard, Detective Abby Pearce acts immediately. She knows from experience how quickly a lost girl can become a tragedy. Back on the island for the first time since she ran away as a teenager, Abby hopes solving Samantha’s case will make up for her past mistakes… But, as the media swarm and Samantha’s grieving mother joins the search, the police find no trace of the beloved sixteen-year-old—even when a reward is offered for her return.

    Trawling through old case files, Abby discovers that Samantha is not the only girl to have gone missing in the small community of Martha’s Vineyard. She’s convinced more could follow, but her team insists there’s no link to be found. Until Samantha’s best friend is found dead at the bottom of a cliff the next day…

    After searching Samantha’s bedroom and trawling through the files on her computer, Abby digs into the death of Samantha’s father five years ago at sea, following the trail to one of the island’s most powerful families. The same people who failed to protect Abby the night she was forced to leave as a young girl. Is there anyone left on this quiet island who Abby can trust? Can she find Samantha before more innocent lives are taken?

    An absolutely unputdownable and nail-biting crime thriller that will have you racing through the pages. Perfect for fans of Lisa Regan, Kendra Elliot, and Gregg Olsen.

    My Thoughts

    Caveat: I’m a big fan of this author’s books, both the Clare Carlson series written by R.G. Belsky and the Jessie Tucker series penned under Dana Perry. Would I enjoy this book, the first in another series, as much as I have all his previous books?

    Her Ocean Grave checked off many boxes of what I enjoy in a book.

    √ The story flowed, along with the captivating suspense, from page 1 to the last word.

    √ The setting description, within the narrative, was so vivid that while sitting on my deck reading, I felt as if I had been transported to Martha’s Vineyard.

    √ The characters were both believable and lifelike. I could picture them as they came alive in my mind.

    √ Short chapters meant that I would tell myself just one more chapter because the story was so engrossing and then realized I had read 10.

    √ Enough twists and turns that had me guessing how this tale was going to end.

    √ And just when I thought the case had wrapped up, BAM! I didn’t see that one coming!!

    Now to answer my question. YES!!! I definitely devoured this read!!

    And what’s more exciting for me now is that I have 3 sequels to look forward to!! No pressure but keep these books coming and make it quick, please!!!!!!

    Purchase Links: Amazon 🔗 | Barnes & Noble 🔗 | Goodreads 🔗

    REVIEW DISCLAIMER

  • This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from, and/or how the book was obtained and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
  • I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
  • I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.
  •  

    #Review | Her First Mistake by Carey Baldwin

    Her First Mistake by Carey Baldwin
    Genre: Psychological Thriller, Women’s Crime Fiction
    Published by Bookouture
    Publication Date: April 30, 2021
    ASIN: B08V57793T
    Pages: 315
    Review Copy From: Publisher via NetGalley
    Edition: Kindle
    My Rating: 5

    Synopsis (via GR)

    Mia covered her mouth to keep from crying out. She hated the dark, but her mother had made her promise. But what was the point of being a good little girl if she couldn’t help her mother? She’d promised her mother not to scream, but she hadn’t promised not to escape…

    To the world, Mia Thornton is invisible—a quiet, timid preschool teacher. People would never guess that she found the will to dig her way out of a locked shed when she was just six years old. That she never saw her mother again.

    Now, all Mia longs for is a normal life and friends to call her own. But when she runs into a group of colleagues one evening, she discovers that, once again, she’s been excluded. Stung at the rejection, she pockets the keys of one of the women in a petty act of revenge. Celeste Cooper is fearless, pretty, popular—everything Mia wishes she could be.

    The next day, Celeste is reported missing. And Mia realizes that it might have been her fault. Wracked with guilt, she joins the search, determined to make up for her mistake. But as she grows closer to Celeste’s family, Mia can’t help but feel she’s being watched…

    What if Celeste’s disappearance has more to do with Mia than she realizes? And if she keeps digging, does she risk being dragged back into the dark forever?

    Prepare to be gripped by the pulse-pounding new psychological thriller from USA Today bestselling author Carey Baldwin. Fans of The Wife Between Us, The Girl on the Train and Gone Girl will be totally addicted to Her First Mistake.

    My Thoughts

    Caveat: It’s been some time since I read a Carey Baldwin book and when I saw that her newest book, a psychological thriller, I was so excited and preordered a Kindle copy. But then, I saw that it was available for request as an eARC on NetGalley and I did because sometimes patience isn’t one of my virtues. Am I glad I did?

    Since the synopsis concisely describes the story, I’m not going to reiterate except to say that Mia’s first mistake of taking Celeste’s keys, sets in motion a chain of events of lies in which Mia finds herself and deepens as the story progresses, but will state how I felt reading this book.

    Even though it may look like that it took many days to read it, it has nothing to do with the story and suspense of the book. It was due to adulting responsibilities. But also with this book, I did something I haven’t done in quite a while and that is read into the early hours of the morning until I finished it because I just HAD to find out how this was going to end. Am I glad I lost some hours of sleep? Absolutely!!!

    The author’s writing style transported me directly into the story. I felt that I could visualize every single page of the story and feel each of the characters’ emotions. The suspense started on page 1 and continued to the intense ending. An ending that I had to process after reading the last word.

    A thrilling page-turner that captivates the reader and doesn’t let go!!!

    Purchase Links: Amazon 🔗 | Barnes & Noble 🔗 | Goodreads 🔗

    REVIEW DISCLAIMER

  • This blog was founded on the premise to write honest reviews, to the best of my ability, no matter who from, where from and/or how the book was obtained, and will continue to do so, even if it is through PICT or PBP.
  • I received a copy of this book, at no charge to me, in exchange for my honest review. No items that I receive are ever sold…they are kept by me, or given to family and/or friends.
  • I do not have any affiliation with Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. I am providing link(s) solely for visitors that may be interested in purchasing this Book/EBook.
  •