Ever read a book that makes you want to highlight every other page because you feel so seen? Kim Hooper’s Woman on the Verge brought back some complicated feelings about motherhood, and I wasn’t expecting just how validating it would be.
California
Books partially or fully set in the state of California.
How to Write a Murder Review: A Clever, Meta Mystery About Writers, Secrets, and Murder
A mystery that knows it’s a mystery
There are few things more fun than a mystery that knows exactly what kind of mystery it is.
How to Write a Murder puts a group of mystery writers in an isolated monastery, gives everyone secrets and motives, and then starts killing people.
Naturally, I had a great time.
But what really made this one work for me was how Jessica Brody plays with the conventions of the genre. The characters know they’re behaving like characters in a murder mystery. The book itself keeps winking at the reader. And somehow, beneath all that cleverness, there is a surprisingly thoughtful exploration of how the roles we believe we’re playing can shape who we become.
I had a blast with this one. And yes, I have thoughts about that cover, too.
Read my full review of How to Write a Murder.
I Wanted a Dark Psychological Thriller. Famous Left Me Underwhelmed.
I’ve discovered that sometimes the biggest disappointment isn’t a bad book. It’s a book that promises exactly the kind of reading experience you’re craving… and never quite gets there.
In my newest review, I’m unpacking Famous by Blake Crouch, from the eye-catching cover that convinced me to buy it to the psychological thriller that left me wanting much more. If you’ve ever picked up a book because everything about it looked perfect, this one might feel familiar.
Read the full review and decide whether Famous belongs on your TBR.
The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark: Beautiful Design, Subtle Suspense, and Secrets That Simmer
A thoughtful review of The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark—exploring its design, slow-burn suspense, and why it’s slightly overhyped but still worth reading.
The Secret History Review: Dark Academia, Unlikable Characters & Moral Obsession
An in-depth review of The Secret History, exploring dark academia themes, unlikable characters, and moral ambiguity. Is it a good book—even if you don’t enjoy it?
I Thought You Said This Would Work Review: A Road Trip, Rekindled Friendship, and a Surprisingly Cozy Adventure
A thoughtful review of I Thought You Said This Would Work by Ann Garvin, exploring the cover design, character development, and themes of friendship, healing, and second chances.
Book Review: House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski
Step into House of Leaves, the cult classic horror puzzle. Is it worth the hype—or just a headache? My honest review explores both.