December Reads

90.  Swipe (Belsky) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Thriller

This was a fast read.  It's many weeks since reading this, and I have forgotten what I thought about it at the time.  I  know I didn't dislike it, so it's getting the benefit of the doubt rating.  12-2-25

91.  If It Makes You Happy (Olivia) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Romance

This was not all that I thought it would be based on the hype it has received.  I definitely prefer closed door bedroom scenes, and I didn't care for the POV in the epilogue.  In general, I have read better romance novels that suit my taste better.  12-7-25

92.  Silent Echo (Constantine) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Thriller, Novella

I don't have much to say about this one.  I was short, but kept my interest.  Nothing too exciting.  12-9-25

93.  Writers & Lovers (King) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Romance

Nothing special here.  It was a bit dull.  12-13-25

94.  Darling Rose Gold (Wrobel) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller, NetGalley

I have mixed feelings about this one.  There were many parts that I thought were despicable and difficult to read.  However, I didn't want to stop.  In general, I knew where it was going, but was still surprised by one twist.  12-17-25

95.  Someone Knows (Keeland) ~ 3/5 (just okay), eBook, Thriller, NetGalley

I really enjoyed The Unraveling, so I was looking forward to this one.  It was a fast read with an interesting plot, but way too predictable.  12-17-25

96.  The Fair Weather Friend (Garcia) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Thriller, NetGalley

This was a bit "fair weathered."  The plot and reasons behind the plot weren't realistic at all.  I have better memories of The Business Trip.  This author may not be for me. Also, I didn't care for the way the narrator made the characters sound whiny.

12-22-25

TO BE CONTINUED . . .

November Reads

86.  Penitence (Koval) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Fiction

I pretty much knew all the major events that happened, but I still was willing to go with it.  All them minor details kept me interested.  It provided food for thought.  I enjoyed the narration.  11-6-25

87.  All the Lies (Sanders) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

Ahhh!  There were scenes that were vaguely familiar, but I just discovered that I read this in 2023!  It's a popcorn thriller that I enjoyed just as much as the first time.  11-12-25

88.  The Bright Years (Damoff) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Book, Fiction

I enjoyed this family saga.  It had some touching moments, but I never felt a true tug at my heartstrings.  I was invented throughout, but it didn't lose some momentum.  11-14-25

DNF ~ The Names (Knapp), Audiobook

This was incredibly slow, boring and too disjointed.  I could have finished it, but there was no point in adding a low rating to my reads.  DNF'd at 44%.  11-19-25

89.  Don't Tell Me How to Die (Karp) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

I enjoyed some of this, but cringed at many points.  However, once again, I wanted to know the ending, so something kept me intrigued.  Going with "good".  11-26-25

October Reads

76.  The Housemaid is Watching (McFadden) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Thriller

Too many ridiculous scenarios that made me roll my eyes.

10-3-25

77.  The Missing Half (Flowers) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Thriller

I was engaged throughout, with one twist surprising me.

10-5-25

78.  Good Bad Girl (Feeney) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

I had a lot of confusion keeping characters straight at first.  Ultimately, it was just an okay read for me.  10-9-25

79.  The Business Trip (Garcia) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

This made me angry for reasons I can't share without spoilers.  Let's just say you need to suspend your disbelief, and be ready for over-the-top scenarios.  All the while, try not to dislike everybody.  My rating isn't lower, because I wanted to know what happened next.  10-12-25

80.  I Know Who You Are (Feeney) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), Audiobook, Thriller

Ick.  10-17-25

81.  Make Me Famous (Ventura) ~ 3/5 (just okay), eBook, Fiction, NetGalley

I enjoy Ventura's writing style, but this one was a bit too repetitious.  Also, I didn't care for the main character and her obsession - just not my thing.  10-20-25

82.  The Long Walk (Bachman/King) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Book, Horror

I actually thought there would be something more to the plot, so I'm a bit disappointed.  He did make me feel a lot of emotions throughout, and I don't think I'll forget it anytime soon.  (It is currently mid-December, and I still think about this book.)  10-22-25

83.  If We Were Villains (Rio) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Fiction

I'm very glad that I read this, so I don't have to keep wondering if I would enjoy it.  I was bored and thought it was slow, but I also somewhat enjoyed it and wanted to know the outcome, which I did predict.  10-22-25

84.  Worst Wingman Ever (Jimenez) ~ 3.5/5 (good), eBook, Fiction, Novella

Cute story with some depth.  10-24-25

85.  The Intruder (McFadden) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

The storyline wasn't enjoyable, but I remained interested.  However, there was one twist I didn't expect.  I have read so many of McFadden's books and will continue to do so, but I hope for something more thrilling.  10-28-25

DNF ~ A Winter in New York (Silver), Book, Fiction

Simply not interested in a gelato recipe plot.  10-28-25

DNF ~ UpGrade (Crouch) ~ Audiobook, Sci-Fi

I was interested in the first 30%, then forced myself until 71%.  Can't do it anymore.  10-31-25

September Reads

67.  Pretty Things (Brown) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

This could have been a novella.  I was truly only interested in one major aspect of the storyline.  8-12-25

DNF ~ Tweet Cute (Lord), Book, Fiction

DNF'd this at 40%.  There was nothing really wrong with it.  I just didn't see myself rating it above a 2.5/5 (eh), so why bother finishing it?  9-7-25

68.  What Happened to Nina?  (McTiernan) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Thriller

Yay!  A book that actually kept me engaged.  I enjoyed the writing style, and the narrators were excellent.  9-10-25

69.  My Sister's Daughter (Constantine) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Domestic Thriller, Novella

Quick read with some twists.  9-12-25

DNF ~ Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop (Bo-reum), Audiobook, Fiction

Was curious.  Curious no more.  9-13-25

70.  A Good Marriage (King) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller, Novella

Not much to say.  I would have enjoyed it more if there was a different narrator.  9-14-25

71.  The Apartment Across the Hall (Dane) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

I guessed much of the plot and what I didn't know was over-the-top, but it still kept my interest.  9-17-25

72.  All We Ever Wanted (Giffin) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Fiction

This was not a fluffy, chick-lit book.  It had so much depth covering several very important topics.  It was realistic, and makes you think.  9-22-25

73.  Yours Truly (Jimenez) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Romance

I really liked Jacob.  This could have had a higher rating, but I didn't care for the narrator's interpretation of Brionna's voice - not literal voice, her attitude.  9-23-25

74.  The Lies I Tell (Clark) ~ 4/5 (very good), Book, Thriller

The dual perspective in which this was told was perfect.  I look forward to the other books by this author that I have on my TBR shelves.  9-28-25

75.  Witness 8 (Cavanagh) ~ 3.5/5 (good +), Audiobook, Thriller, NetGalley

I liked this except for two things.  There were too many characters, and I didn't like the mob aspect.  Tone both of those down, and I would have liked it more.  9-29-25

  

August Reads

59.  The Bookseller (Koegh) ~ 2.75/5 (eh +), Audiobook, Thriller

This could have been a novella.  I was truly only interested in one major aspect of the storyline.  8-12-25

60.  Someone in the Attic (Mara) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Thriller

This had potential.  It had too much going on and the shift in storyline with every new chapter annoyed me.  8-12-25

61.  The Housemaid's Wedding (McFadden) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Stort Story, Thriller

I thought more would have transpired, but it was a short story, so . . . .  8-12-25

62.  The Crash (McFadden) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Thriller

  It kept my attention while doing other things.  I liked one twist.  8-17-25

63.  One By One (McFadden) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller, NetGalley

Most of it was your typical 'one by one' trope, but I was still curious as to how it would all turn out.  I guessed many things that happened; however, the ending was unexpected.  8-19-25

64.  Daughter of Mine (Miranda) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Mystery

It was a bit boring, and I lost interest.  Could even rate it lower.  😑  Definitely more mystery than thriller.  8-24-25

65.  Finding Grace (Rothschild) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Fiction, NetGalley

I had no idea what this was about going into it.  I was initially surprised, then went along for the emotional ride of relationships.  I liked the writing and will look for more from this author.  8-24-25

66.  Say You'll Remember Me (Jimenez) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Romance

This didn't follow a traditional 3rd act issue, so that was nice.  The story had a 'real' feeling, and I appreciated the true representation of a family experiencing health issues.  8-29-25

July Reads

51.  The Wedding People (Espach) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Fiction

I don't understand the hype surrounding this book.  I found it a little bit boring and somewhat annoying at times.  Also, the major plot points didn't ring right to me.  Ultimately, just an okay read.  7-1-25

52.  I Who Have Never Known Men (Harpman) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Book, Sci-Fi

Intriguing, thought-provoking and bleak.  7-1-25

DNF ~ The Ministry of Time (Bradley)

Simply not interested.  DNF @52%.

53.  A Talent for Murder (Swanson) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

I liked the first half better than the second, but it was good.

7-6-25

54.  Don't Let Him In (Jewell) ~ 4/5 (very good), eBook, Domestic Thriller, NetGalley

It was a little confusing in the beginning, but I was engaged - engaged all the way to the last word.  It's fictional, but sadly this concept has been reality for some.  7-12-25

55.  All the Colors of the Dark (Whitaker) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable ), Audiobook, Fiction

I held out hope, but this was so disappointing.  I found it slow and boring.  My interested waned with every chapter.  By the end, I didn't care at all.  7-14-25

DNF ~ A Novel Love Story (Poston), NetGalley

Sometimes you have to read what a book is about.  Magical realism is usually not my go-to.

56.  The Woman in the Cabin (Day) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

There were some ridiculous choices made that made me roll my eyes.  Other than that, it was a decent read.  7-23-25

57.  Our Last Resort (Michallon) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Thriller, NetGalley

This was very slow and not very interesting.  I don't remember much to say anything else.  The Quiet Tenant was a bit more to my liking.  7-28-25

58.  Everybody is a Liar (Constantine) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

It was a short, twist thriller that had a good ending.  7-31-25  

19 Years!

Here we are again, after another year that has flown by.  In general, it has been a very good year.  Specifically reading-wise, it's been a decent year.  I'm still trying to read off my shelves, but still manage to veer in other directions.  I've picked up numerous ebooks, but still listening to audiobooks has been my preference.  Although, the routine of having three books (audiobook, ebook & physical) going at the same time still holds true.  So, not much has changed on the reading front.  Even my average remains close to last year.  It currently is 3.25/5, which indicates better than "just okay".  The hunt continues for those elusive 4 and 5 star reads. 

I hope your search for those Best Reads has been fruitful.

Thoughts of Joy 

  

June Reads

44.  Funny Story (Henry) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Romance

I liked the general storyline, but didn't find it to be anything special.  6-4-25

45.  All Rhodes Lead Here (Zapata) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Romance, NetGalley

My first Zapata book was a success!  It felt more realistic than other romance novels I have read.  I enjoyed that.  It was a slow burn romance with some quirks (Buddy!?!) that I didn't care for, but I was interested in the character's lives.  6-11-25

46.  Annie Bot (Greer) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Book, 

Sci-fi

I didn't know anything about this book when I picked it up.  It definitely was not what I was expecting.  Once I got past the beginning, I wanted to know how it would end.  6-17-25

47.  The Vacancy in Room 10 (Glass) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), eBook, Thriller, NetGalley

Some of this was okay, but it lacked something.  It was slow, and I had a hard time picking it up.  6-19-25

48.  Broken Country (Hall) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Fiction

This was an emotional read.  I was chasing the answer to WHO? from the beginning.  Ultimately, I enjoyed the writing, but am still sorting out my feelings regarding the conclusion.  6-19-25

49.  Bunny (Awad) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), Audiobook, Fiction

Weird and wild.  And ... not for me.  Glad I now know what it's all about, though.  6-21-25

50.  The Tenant (McFadden) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

A good addition to my McFadden reads.  This was exactly as expected with its anticipated twists, turns and fast-paced storyline.  6-25-25

May Reads

36.  The Favorites (Fargo) ~ 4/5 (very good), eBook, Fiction, NetGalley

This had a Taylor Jenkins Reid feel (writing and format), which was definitely a positive.  After just reading a book with an on again/off again relationship, the storyline was a tad bit wearing.  However, overall, I really enjoyed it.  5-2-25

37.  The Poppy Fields (Erlick) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Speculative Fiction, NetGalley

Oh my.  I love The Measure.  Unfortunately, this one didn't have the same impact.  I made no connections and was bored for most of it.  I thought the concept was fascinating and bits and pieces were interesting, but overall I was sadly disappointed.

5-4-25

38.  Gray After Dark (Ihli) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Thriller

I will definitely be picking up more by this new-to-me author.  This one kept my attention throughout due to the terrific writing.  There were a couple parts when I didn't feel like it was realistic, but other than that it was very good.  5-6-25

39.  The Perfect Divorce (Rose) #2 ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

I predicted a lot, but still enjoyed this popcorn thriller.  5-9-25

40.  I Must Betray You (Sepetys) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, YA Historical Fiction

Learning through Sepetys writing has always been a positive.  This one was no different.  5-13-25

41.  Pictures of You (Grey) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Fiction

This story was okay.  I figured out some twists and when others were unveiled, they didn't surprise me.  I was interested enough to finish it.  5-18-25

42.  The Return of Ellie Black (Jean) ~ 3.5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

I, once again, knew who was involved.  However, it kept me engaged.  5-23-25

DNF ~ Butcher & Blackbird (Weaver) 

Could barely even start it.  Trigger warnings were in abundance.  

43.  Tom Lake (Patchett) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Fiction

Throughout most of the book, I felt like it was a little mundane.  However, by the end, I was truly invested in the characters.

5-27-25

April Reads

26.  The Day the World Came to Town (DeFede) ~ 4.25/5 (very good +), Audiobook, Non-Fiction

The tragedy of 9/11 was told in the spirit of compassion by the people in Gander, Newfoundland.  I was choked up many times by the memory and by what I learned regarding the generosity and kindness of the Newfoundland communities.  4-1-25

27.  The Last Trip (Modglin) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Thriller

This was a typical popcorn thriller.  It kept me entertained for a brief time.  4-3-25

28.  Home is Where the Bodies Are (Rose) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

I knew who it was from the start.  4-6-25

29.  The Kind Worth Saving (Swanson) #2 ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

  I thought it was good, but nothing that I'll remember in the near future.  4-10-25

30.  Dinner for Vampires (Lenz) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Memoir

I found the first half mundane.  The second half was much more interesting.  However, instead of feeling concern or sympathy towards her, I felt frustrated and surprised at many of her decisions.  A scene towards the end shed a little light on how people regard others that have been affiliated with cults.  I appreciated her view on that.  I still feel thoroughly annoyed with the outcome.  Also, a different narrator would have been preferable.  4-17-25

31.  I Will Ruin You (Barclay) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Thriller

Started out strong, but as the story went along, it got convoluted.  I love the narrator Newbern.  4-20-25

32.  The Selection (Case) #1 Selection Trilogy ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, YA Dystopian Romance

I enjoyed this YA Bachelor-type scenario.  4-23-25

33.  The Elite (Case) #2 Selection Trilogy ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, YA Dystopian Romance

The saga continued in this second book.  4-26-25

34.  Beautiful Ugly (Feeney) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Book, Thriller

This one was a little too wacky for my liking.  I was always curious as to how it was going to end, but suspension of disbelief was definitely required.  4-28-25

35.  The One (Cass) #3 Section Trilogy ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Ya Dystopian Romance

It ended nicely.  I just got tired of the repetitive highs and lows of the relationships.  4-29-25

March Reads

17.  Check & Mate (Hazelwood) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, YA Romance

I liked all the chess talk, but the siblings of the main character ... I could do without!  The rest of the story was just whatever.  I just wasn't the right audience for this book.   3-4-25

18.  The Paradise Problem (Lauren) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Romance

I'm not sure if it was the narrator or not, but I didn't care for the MFC.  I, also, wasn't a fan of the open door scenes.  The storyline was just okay.  3-9-25

19.  Do Not Open (Modglin) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

This went a little too extreme (horror).  I wasn't expecting that.  3-10-25

20.  The Quiet Librarian (Eskens) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), eBook, Historical Fiction, NetGalley

I love Eskens' writing style, but this was my least favorite.  I didn't like the war plot.  Truly disappointed, but will definitely read more by him.  This was just a blip.  3-10-25

DNF - Intermezzo (Rooney)

21.  Things We Do in the Dark (Hillier) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

This was disappointing, as well.  It didn't feel like the Hillier I know.  It was very mundane and didn't have any twists that I didn't see coming.  3-18-25

22.  None of This is True (Jewell) ~ 3.5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

I was invested in the story, but I also knew where the ending was going.  Ultimately, good for a time, but nothing great.  I do wish it were more.  3-21-25

23.  The Housemaid's Secret (McFadden) ~ 4/5 (very good), Book, Thriller

I wanted to pick this up frequently.  It was crazy, but entertaining.  3-24-25

24.  The Rom-Commers (Center) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Romance

Some of this love story was endearing and other parts, not so much.  3-24-25

25.  The Frozen River (Lawhon) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Historical Fiction

When I discovered that this was actually based on a real women and her diary, it made me like it more.  Author's notes are gold to me.  I love reading/hearing their thoughts behind their book.  This one affected my rating.  3-30-25

February Reads

9.  Two Girls Down (Luna) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

I liked this for the most part.  It got a little slow when I was ready for it to pick up speed.  Also, the ending was sort of typical for this genre.  I did like the relationship between the two main characters and would read more in this series.  2-4-25

10.  The Switch (O'Leary) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Fiction

This wasn't anything special, but I continued.  It was an easy listen with several themes in a couple of age ranges. Didn't care for the narration.  2-11-25

11.  To All the Boys I've Loved Before (Han) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, YA Chick Lit

Perfect for YA!  2-15-25

12.  The Family Experiment (Marrs) ~ 4.5/5 (excellent), Book, Sci-fi

I took my time reading this, because I didn't want it to end.  I was fully engrossed in the entire book.  Love this author!!!

2-16-25

13.  Blacktop Wasteland (Cosby) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Thriller

This contains very gritty content while a man explores who he wants to be.  2-18-25

14.  Milk and Honey (Kaur) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Book, Poetry

Just curious.  What constitutes poetry?  Is it simply words on a page?  The sentiment of a passage?  A few lines of thought?  According to this book, it seems like any thought put on paper is a poem.  Hmmm.  I didn't dislike reading this collection, but I didn't like it either.  2-18-25

15.  Evvie Drake Starts Over (Holmes) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Romance

I enjoyed this closed door romance.  It was cozy and realistic.  2-22-25

16.  The God of the Woods (Moore) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Mystery

What a disappointment!  This was so long and so boring.  It would have been a DNF, if I had been physically reading it.

2-28-25

January Reads

 

1.  The Girl With the Louding Voice (Dare) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Fiction

My first read of 2025 was better than good!  Yay!  I consider that a great start.  I appreciated the story and being in an environment/world that I have not experienced.  The main character spoke to my heart.  1-5-25

2.  She Started It (Gilbert) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Thriller

This revenge story was so unrealistic, but I wanted to know what they did.  That's the only thing that propelled me.  1-9-25

3.  The Liar's Wife (Modglin) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

There were some very unrealistic scenes, but I was interested in what was really going on and why.  1-12-25

4.  House of Glass (Pekkanen) ~ 3.5/5 (good), eBook, Thriller, NetGalley

I wanted to read this, but it never compelled me to pick it up, so it was slow going.  I enjoyed the point of view from the attorney for children and the psychological aspects of the storyline.  1-17-25

5.  The Sequel (Korelitz) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Thriller

This was a little slow for me.  I would have liked more dialogue.  Sometimes it just droned on and on.  It was a good sequel, though.  1-17-25

6.  The House Across the Lake (Sager) ~ 1.5/5 (ugh), Audiobook, Thriller

Nope, nope and nope.  I'm giving it 1.5 because it was fine until 3/4 of the way through, then . . . UGH!  1-23-24

7.  Happiness Falls (Kim) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Mystery

There were parts that I enjoyed, but I had different expectations for this.  I thought the focus was a mystery.  It was not.  I didn't dislike it.  It was just an okay listen.  1-26-25

8.  Somewhere Beyond the Sea (Klune) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), Audiobook, Fantasy

Loved the first book in this duology.  Unfortunately, this one in audio didn't work for me.  It was dramatic (in general, not my preference) and didn't reflect the voices I had in my mind.  I didn't care for it at all.  However the Epilogue was important.

1-26-25

Best Reads of 2024

Most of my other hobbies were accompanied by a book this year.  Therefore, my reading consisted of 82% of audiobooks!  I'm fine with that, though.  I still read physical and/or ebooks everyday, but only for short periods of time.  My overall average rating went from 3.16 (2023) to a 3.17 (2024).  At least it's moving in the right trajectory!  😆  To be fair to myself, it was much higher until December.  I read many Christmas romance books and one big disappointment at the end.

In order of how I read 103 books, here are the Best Reads of 2024 that I rated 4/5 and up:

1.  The Heiress (Hawkins) ~ 4/5, Mystery

**2.  The Passengers (Marrs) ~ 4.25/5, Thriller

3.  My Lovely Wife (Downing) ~ 4/5, Thriller

4.  Strange Sally Diamond (Nugent) ~ 4.25/5, Thriller

5.  Kill for Me, Kill for You (Cavanagh) ~ 4/5, Thriller

6.  Forsaken Country (Esken) ~ 4.25/5, Thriller

7.  Good Morning, Monster (Gildiner) ~ 4.25/5, Non-Fiction

8.  Look Closer (Ellis) ~ 4.25/5, Thriller

**9.  My Husband (Ventura) ~ 4/5, Fiction

10.  Nightwatching (Sierra) ~ 4/5, Thriller

11.  Gone Tonight (Pekkanen) ~ 4/5, Thriller

12.  The Unraveling (Keeland) ~ 4.25/5, Thriller

13.  My Dark Vanessa (Russell) ~ 4.25/5, Fiction

14.  Razorblade Tears (Cosby) ~ 4/5, Thriller

15.  Zero Days (Ware) ~ 4/5, Thriller

** Think about these books OFTEN.

December Reads

93.  Home Before Dark (Sager) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), Audiobook, Thriller

Scooby-Do Caper.  That says it all.  12-3-24

 (soft) DNF ~ The Thursday Murder Club (Osman) 

I simply couldn't get into it.  I'll try again another time.

94.  Such a Fun Age (Reid) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Fiction

Whatever.  12-8-24

95.  The Maidens (Michaelides) ~ 2.75/5 (eh +), Audiobook, Mystery

This was slow and a bit boring.  12-11-24

(soft) DNF ~ Once There Were Wolves (McConaghy)

Not interested at the moment.  I'll try again later.

96.  A Cross-Country Christmas (Walsh) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Christmas Romance

Pretty much what one would expect from a Christmas Romance book.  Very Hallmarky.  12-15-24

97.  My December Darling (Asher) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Christmas Romance

I enjoyed the story, but I could do without the open door scenes.  First time reading Asher, though.  I'll read more.

12-18-24

98.  Claus & Effect (Wayne) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Christmas Romance

I didn't really care for either of the main characters.  Again, not a fan of open door scenes.  12-20-24    

99.  Holiday Wedding (Neeley) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), Audiobook, Christmas Romance

Yay for no open door, but the storyline was ridiculous!  12-22-24

100.  Cabin Crush (Stockton), 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Christmas Romance

Clean, cute Christmasy romance.  12-24-24

***101.  The Clinic (Quinn) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

I don't remember much about this book, I even forgot to record it in May!  However, I do remember bits and pieces.  Didn't love it, didn't hate it.  5-20-24

102.  The Christmas Guest (Swanson) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Book, Thriller

I don't know what I was expecting, but I was surprised with this one.  It was good, but the darkness in this Christmas book was shocking to me - probably because I just read 4 Christmas romances.  😏  12-28-24

103.  The Reformatory (Due) ~ 2/5 (not enjoyable), Audiobook, Paranormal 

I saw this all over the place with raving reviews.  Not one person mentioned there was a paranormal element to it.  Had I known  . . . I don't think I would have picked it up.  This wasn't what I was expecting at all, and frankly, I should have DNF'd it.  I, also, should have done a little research beforehand.  Oops.  

12-29-24

*Edited a book

***Forgotten book from May.

November Reads

89.  Zero Days (Ware) ~ 4/5 (very good), Audiobook, Thriller

This is probably my favorite Ware book, so far.  I like the 'cat and mouse' trope.  Unfortunately, though, there were F-bombs galore.  11-5-24  

90.  Happiness for Beginners (Center) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Chick Lit

This was a very predicable read, but fine.  11-10-24

91.  The Feud (Rogers) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Psychological Thriller

There were two big scenes that were beyond ridiculous that kept my rating at a 3.5/5, otherwise I would have rated it higher.  The storyline kept my interest.  11-18-24

92.  The Neighbour (Rogers) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Domestic Thriller

This was fine.  Not much to comment on.  11-24-24

*Edited a Book*

11-30-24

October Reads

80.  While You Were Out (Kissinger) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Memoir

I was missing something in this memoir.  It was filled with very important facts and issues surrounding mental illness, so maybe it was the personal touch that I was missing.  Not sure.  10-4-24

81.  Behind Her Eyes (Pinborough) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

Ugh.  I wasn't aware of this particular genre twist, which I haven't seen referred to anywhere.  Other than that, it was pretty good.  I'll still try another by her.  10-8-24

DNF (soft) ~ Unsub (Gardiner) ~ Audiobook, Thriller

I wasn't interested in the slightest.  Hopefully, it will have more appeal on another day.

82.   This is How it Always is (Frankel) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Fiction

This was a deep, thoughtful story.  There are many topics to discuss and/or ruminate over.  I didn't care for the fairytale story or just the basic story within a story.  10-14-24

83.  Maybe in Another Life (Reid) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Chick Lit

I enjoyed the basic idea of this story, but didn't care for some the repetition - especially talk about cinnamon rolls.  I, also, didn't like the music in the background of the audiobook at all!  Beautiful instrumental music, but that's not for me when listening to a book.  Other than that, I really liked some the characters.  10-18-24

84.  Razorblade Tears (Cosby) ~ 4/5 (very good), Book, Fiction

The relationship between the two main characters was enjoyable.  I liked their snarky remarks.  The story was very gritty and had a street/biker vibe to it that I didn't expect.  10-18-24

85.  After I Do (Reid) ~ 3.5/5 (good), Audiobook, Chick Lit

This was good.  I liked the variety of relationships.  10-23-24

86.  Drowning (Newman) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Suspense

There wasn't anything special about this book.  Actually, some of it was easily predicted and other parts were very unrealistic.  10-27-24

87.  Same Time Next Summer (Monaghan) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Chick Lit

 

This was just a simple romance story on a beach.  10-30-24

*Proof Read a Book*

10-31-24

88.  The Haters (Harding) ~ 3/5 (just okay), eBook, Suspense, NetGalley

I think my expectations were too high, just by the title and general synopsis.  It felt more domestic than anything and not very suspenseful.  I do believe it's me, though.  10-31-24

September Reads

70.  Beach Read (Henry) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Book, Chick Lit

There were slivers of scenes I enjoyed, but overall it was boring.  I liked Book Lovers more, but Henry simply may not be the author for me.  9-1-24

71.  Lessons in Chemistry (Garmus) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), Audiobook, Fiction

I appreciated the message in this book, so I can understand why people really like it, but there was more that I didn't like.  I didn't like any of the characters, I don't like personification, so I didn't like any of the dog scenes, and in general, it felt exaggerated.  Oh well.  9-6-24

72.  Tomorrow, Tomorrow and Tomorrow (Zevin) ~ 1.5/5 (ugh), Audiobook, Fiction

I should have marked this as a DNF, so 1.5/5 is generous.  Boring, Boring and Boring.  9-12-24

73.  Seven Days in June (Williams) ~ 2.75/5 (eh +), Audiobook, Fiction

Hmmm.  This would have been a 3/5 (just okay), but the tipping point was the daughter.  Had I read it with my eyes, maybe I would have a different opinion.  Also, there was an abundance of very important topics that made it difficult for me to buy into it all.  I did want to know the outcome, though.  9-15-24

74.  The Leftover Woman (Kwok) ~ 2.75/5 (eh), Audiobook, Fiction

I would not consider this a thriller.  The timeline seemed a bit jumbled, and there were some ridiculous aspects to the storyline.  9-18-24

75.  The Overnight Guest (Gudenkauf) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Thriller

This had two timelines and many more coincidences.  I didn't care for the main character, but was generally interested to know the conclusion.  Suspension of disbelief was required. 

9-19-24

76.  The Summer of Yes (Walsh) ~ 2.5/5 (eh), eBook, Chick Lit, NetGalley

This was so incredibly predictable.  It definitely was a typical, light chick-lit story regarding the romance.  The other storyline was very unrealistic, which others may enjoy for a summer read, but wasn't for me.  9-23-24

77.  The Fury (Michaelides) ~ 3.75/5 (good +), Audiobook, Mystery

I really enjoyed the unique way in which this was told.  It kept my interest.  9-24-24

78.  When the Stars Go Dark (McLain) ~ 3/5 (just okay), Audiobook, Mystery

This wasn't anything special.  I listened, but was never eager to continue.  9-27-24

79.  The Good Neighbors (Modglin) ~ 3.25/5 (just okay +), Audiobook, Fiction

While doing something else, this popcorn thriller kept me entertained.  9-30-24