BOOK REVIEWS
Whistler (by Ann Patchett)
In my first Ann Patchett novel, I found Whistler to be a thoughtful story of reconnection and memory. I enjoyed the audiobook (narrated by the author), though the hype raised my expectations and the book didn’t fully live up to them.
The List (by Gregg Hurwitz)
Joey Morales took center stage in this compact Orphan X short story. After witnessing a campus tragedy, she uncovered a toxic ranking of women and used her skills to confront the students behind it. Hurwitz wrote her with the respect, accuracy, and compassion that have defined his female characters throughout the series.
Where the Wildflowers Grow (by Terah Shelton Harris)
I virtually met Terah Shelton Harris at a Back Room author event and immediately knew I had to read Where the Wildflowers Grow. The story of a woman learning to move beyond survival—and the quiet work of healing on a flower farm—landed at the perfect time, just as I was digging and storing my own dahlia tubers for the winter.
Frankenstein (by Mary Shelley)
A classic I thought I knew turned out to be something else entirely—more philosophical, more sorrowful, and far more human than the version that had lived in my head.
Last Seen (by J.T. Ellison)
Last Seen by J.T. Ellison is a twisty psychological thriller about family secrets, a small town hiding something dark, and one woman’s search for the truth about her mother.
The Witch (by Freida McFadden)
Freida McFadden trades twisty thrillers for gothic chills in The Witch, a haunted mansion story with dark family secrets and a 1692 witchcraft mystery. Perfect for spooky season.
The Mad Wife (by Meagan Church)
I wasn’t planning to read The Mad Wife until I met Meagan Church at a virtual author event, and I’m so glad I did. This story of a 1950s housewife whose perfect life begins to unravel was far more powerful than I expected.
Dracula (by Bram Stoker)
I had never read Dracula, so when Audible released this full-cast Audible Original, I couldn’t resist. With immersive sound design, an original score, and a remarkable cast, it made a perfect October listen.
Dead Med (by Freida McFadden)
A solid medical thriller about the competitive pressures of med school, where secrets and sabotage turn deadly. The multiple perspectives kept the story engaging, though the abrupt ending left more questions than answers.
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