Tag: suspense (Page 1 of 3)

Q&A plus GIVEAWAY with “What’s Yours Is Mine” author Jennifer Jabaley

August 19, 2025 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

A must-read for those who love psychological thrillers with layered female relationships and shocking twists!

Valerie Yarnell is a hardworking single mother who’d do anything for her daughter, Kate. Kate is a dancer with dreams of stardom, just like her talented best friend, Colette. Despite Valerie’s sacrifices, it’s Colette’s mother, former prima ballerina Elise, whom Kate adores. And Colette has become like the practically perfect sister Kate never had. How can Valerie not feel frustrated, ineffectual, and a little jealous of the queen bee of dance moms? Not only has she hijacked her daughter, but Elise is married to the man Valerie pines for.

Rivalries are forming. Tension is mounting. In preparation for an elite dance competition, Kate outshines the more promising Colette onstage, and the pressure is on for Colette to keep her position in the spotlight―and especially to keep her demanding mother happy. Who could have foreseen the violent attack that sabotages everything? Anyone who’s been watching closely.

As ruthless and sinister ambitions are exposed, a media firestorm and an explosive town scandal erupt. Before it’s over, two mothers and two daughters will learn just how fierce and dangerous a rivalry can still get.

Thanks to Lake Union Publishing and the author for this early reviewer giveaway copy! If you didn’t win, come back here to get your copy.

Giveaway link is posted following the Q&A with Jennifer Jabaley.

What is the most unusual place where you’ve found inspiration for your writing?

Most authors have dazzling origin stories for their books – tales of inspiration sparked by an eerie dream, a peculiar stranger, an evocative discovery buried in a box in the back of a closet. My first venture into suspense writing launched a bit differently. The idea for my book didn’t strike during a stormy night or a brush with danger. Rather, an idea formed while I was sitting in the cramped cold bleachers at one of my kid’s sporting events. Because nothing stirs up raw, unfiltered emotions quite like youth sports.

Who was your hardest character to write?

The hardest character to write was easily Chad, Kate’s father. I wanted Valerie to be a single mother, but I also wanted her ex to be a factor in the story. Initially I had written him as a good guy driving a conflict where Valerie was the pragmatic parent and Chad was the easy-going, give in to anything counterpoint. My agent felt he didn’t really bring anything to the story and suggested either I eliminate him, or create more suspense with him. I chose the latter. But it was not an easy rewrite.

Do you keep your rejection letters?

Heck, no! I definitely don’t want to keep negativity in my space. I did read them all, though, and tried to learn from each one.

If you were to host a dinner party with three authors, who would you invite?

Liane Moriarty and Sally Hepworth are my two of favorite authors in the genre I write. I have tons of auto-buy authors but I feel like I’d get along with these two women because their style of writing is somewhat similar to mine (well, I aim very much to be as incredible as they are). Plus, they both are Australian and hilarious. It would be so fun. My third guest would be Reese Witherspoon because I adore her. She’s made reading on trend and she is so generous with her promotion of authors. And, she has co-written a book with Harlan Coben so now she is a full-fledged author as well. (If I could piggy-back and have Harlan come as well, that’d be awesome because I love him, too.)

What’s the strangest or most unexpected feedback you’ve received about your writing?

Many years ago, when I first started writing, I had an editor critique at a conference for an adult manuscript. She told me my natural voice was very teen-like and I should switch the book to young adult. I flipped the pov from the aunt to the niece and my first young adult novel, Lipstick Apology was born. After writing a second young adult novel, I really felt pulled to go back to the adult space – that was what I read, that was where all my ideas generated. I didn’t want to try and force myself into the young adult world anymore. Interestingly, What’s Yours is Mine does have a teen pov in addition to the two mothers, so I guess there is a place inside of me that is eternally a teenager.

How does your thought process differ when writing young adult versus adult books?

While I still very much enjoy exploring the ideas of young adult novels – coming of age, self-discovery, first love – the older I get (sigh) the harder it becomes to tap into the current real life experience of teenagers. I didn’t have a phone when I was in high school. My parents didn’t track my location on GPS. There wasn’t helicopter parenting and huge pressure with sports that current kids endure. I was of the free-range generation! Writing Colette’s pov in What’s Yours is Mine required a lot of research and running things by my daughter to see if they were authentic. Writing in the adult space, now, comes a lot more naturally.

A piece of advice you give to aspiring authors is to “read widely”. What are your favorite genres, when do you have time to read?

Yes, I think reading is the best prep work for writing. I do read wide across all genres with the exception of sci-fy and fantasy. My favorite genres are book club fiction and domestic suspense. At all times I have a physical book that I read at night before bed and sometimes on lunch if I have the time. I also, at all times, have an audiobook that I listen to while I walk the dogs, drive, and do housework.

Are you working on your next book yet? Any hints you’d like to drop?

Yes. In fact, I just finished a draft. I’m revising and then hopefully will be sending it to my agent shortly. It’s another domestic suspense about kindergarten mothers and their secrets set in an exclusive private school in Atlanta. It has one of my favorite characters of all time that I’ve written. She’s hysterical, or at least I think she is.

What’s something you believed about writing at the start of your career that you no longer believe?

I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is there is no quantifiable measure of success. Typically, when someone begins writing, it is with the goal to be published. The first step is to finish the draft. Then find an agent. Then get a publishing contract. Then have good sales and reviews. Then get another book deal. On and on, the goal posts keep moving. It’s taken me a while to realize I can’t measure my writing success by these outside markers because all of them are outside my control. The only thing I can do is write the best book I am capable of writing. If I do that, and I enjoy the process, that is success.

What is your go-to writing snack?

In the mornings, it’s constant coffee. In the afternoons, it’s gobstoppers. I know, so bad for teeth! I use to suck on fireballs but I had so many I burned the inside of my mouth. So I went to gobstoppers. I ordered a huge box from a movie theater distributor. It’s really a problem.

What’s one thing you’re excited about right now – book related or totally random?

My daughter’s basketball team just won the State Championship. She’s the point guard and played the entire game as a sophomore. It was a huge accomplishment and our little small town literally exploded in celebration. Our high school hasn’t won a championship in twenty-six years. As incredible as it is to see my own dreams come to fruition with the publication of What’s Yours is Mine, absolutely nothing beats witnessing your child fulfill their ambitions.

Are you excited to enter the giveaway? Hope you enjoyed the Q&A with Jennifer Jabaley, and may the odds be ever in your favor 🙂

THE BUSINESS TRIP by Jessie Garcia

January 14, 2025 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

THE BUSINESS TRIP is a gripping, page-turning debut from author Jessie Garcia.

Stephanie and Jasmine have nothing and everything in common. The two women don’t know each other but are on the same plane. Stephanie is on a business trip and Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. After a few days, they text their friends the same exact messages about the same man—the messages becoming stranger and more erratic.
And then the two women vanish. The texts go silent, the red flags go up, and the panic sets in. When Stephanie and Jasmine are each declared missing and in danger, it begs the questions: Who is Trent McCarthy? What did he do to these women— or what did they do to him?

Twist upon twist, layer upon layer, where nothing is as it seems, THE BUSINESS TRIP takes you on a descent into the depths of a mastermind manipulator. But who is playing who?

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this review copy!

THE BUSINESS TRIP by Jessie Garcia is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The story revolves around two women, Stephanie and Jasmine, who find themselves entangled in a web of mystery and danger after boarding the same flight to Denver. Stephanie is on a business trip, while Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship. Their lives take a dramatic turn when they both send identical, increasingly erratic messages about the same man, Trent McCarthy, before vanishing without a trace.

As the women’s lives intertwine, their texts become increasingly erratic and disturbing, leading to their disappearance. The novel delves into the depths of human psychology, exploring themes of trust, deception, and the lengths people will go to protect themselves. Stephanie and Jasmine’s lives become increasingly intertwined and dangerous, leaving readers questioning who is truly in control. Garcia masterfully weaves a complex web of intrigue, keeping readers guessing and constantly questioning the motives of the characters.

The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their stories. Stephanie is a driven professional on a business trip to Denver. She is portrayed as a strong, independent woman who is dedicated to her career. However, beneath her composed exterior, she harbors insecurities and past traumas that gradually surface as the story unfolds.

Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship, seeking a fresh start and safety. She is resilient and resourceful, having endured significant hardships. Her journey is one of survival and self-discovery. Jasmine’s character highlights the struggles of escaping a toxic environment and the courage required to rebuild one’s life. Her connection with Stephanie, despite their diverse backgrounds, underscores the theme of solidarity and shared experiences.

Trent is the enigmatic figure at the center of the mystery. His character is shrouded in ambiguity, making readers question his true intentions. As the book progresses, Trent goes from villain to victim; becoming sympathetic, then someone you love to hate. Trent’s interactions with both Stephanie and Jasmine are pivotal to the plot, driving the suspense and tension. His manipulative nature is gradually revealed, adding layers of complexity to the story.

The novel’s triple narrative, alternating between Stephanie, Trent, and Jasmine’s perspectives, adds to the suspense and tension. As the characters’ stories unfold, readers are drawn into their lives, becoming invested in their fate and unraveling the mystery that binds them together.

The novel touches on the idea of identity and how easily it can be manipulated or misunderstood. The impact of technology on our lives is demonstrated for nefarious purposes, such as the use of text messages as a central plot device. This serves to highlight the ways in which our digital interactions can shape our relationships and our identities. In addition to the psychological suspense, the novel also explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for connection. Stephanie and Jasmine are both seeking something more in their lives, and their encounter on the plane offers them a chance to find a sense of belonging.

Garcia’s writing is both captivating and thought-provoking. She skillfully creates a sense of unease and paranoia, building a palpable atmosphere of suspense. The novel’s pacing is expertly crafted, with each chapter revealing new clues and keeping readers hooked. The alternating perspectives and detailed descriptions create a vivid and immersive reading experience, with a constant undertone of who might be an unreliable narrator. However, some readers might find certain parts of the story overly detailed, which can slow down the pace at times.

The novel’s ending is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a sense of closure while also hinting at the possibility of further consequences. THE BUSINESS TRIP is a well-crafted and compelling debut that will leave readers engaged and entertained from beginning to end. Fans of psychological thrillers will find this book particularly enjoyable.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

GONE TONIGHT by Sarah Pekkanen

August 1, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

Catherine Sterling thinks she knows her mother. Ruth Sterling is quiet, hardworking, and lives for her daughter. All her life, it’s been just the two of them against the world. But now, Catherine is ready to spread her wings, move from home, and begin a new career. And Ruth Sterling will do anything to prevent that from happening.
Ruth Sterling thinks she knows her daughter. Catherine would never rebel, would never question anything about her mother’s past or background. But when Ruth’s desperate quest to keep her daughter by her side begins to reveal cracks in Ruth’s carefully-constructed world, both mother and daughter begin a dance of deception. No one can know Ruth’s history. There is a reason why Ruth kept them moving every few years, and why she was ready–in a moment’s notice–to be gone in the night. But danger is closing in. Is it coming from the outside, from Ruth’s past? Is Ruth reaching a breaking point? Or is the danger coming from the darkness that may live in Catherine, herself? Propulsive, brilliant, layered, and provocative, GONE TONIGHT is a thriller that showcases Sarah Pekkanen at the top of her game.

Thanks to NetGalley and St Martins Press for this review copy!

You know when you are reading a book and you can’t wait to have free time to get back to it? This is one of those books. Pekkanen has the ability to create multilayered characters that are both unreliable narrators yet sympathetic at the same time.

GONE TONIGHT has two strong female characters in the mother-daughter team of Ruth and Catherine Sterling. At first glance Ruth seems to be an overbearing, controlling parent, while Catherine is a wishy-washy daughter, content with drifting through life. But there is so much more behind this curtain! Catherine is ready to take a new job in another state, far away from Ruth and her constant scrutiny. When Ruth learns about Catherine’s plan, she creates a diabolical and twisted plan to keep her daughter near and dear. And then their lives begin to unravel.

I hated Ruth. Such a helicopter parent! And I also wished Catherine was stronger. Then, as the pages turned, I started to understand Ruth and disliked her less. Then, it seemed as if Catherine had found her inner strength and was going to leave her mother behind. Ok, the plot is all tied up neatly.

Nope.

The author adds some mind-blowing twists to the mix and wham! everything goes sideways and you can’t stop reading. GONE TONIGHT is psychological suspense at its best. I had no idea who to trust or who to believe. At a certain part of the book, I just kept murmuring “wow” as the plot took hairpin turns and twists yet stayed on the rails. A few more unreliable narrators got added and the conflict took a violent turn. Just when I thought the author couldn’t wring out another drop of crazy, another twist sent everything in yet another direction.

Yes, this story is full of suspense. But I also need to mention that the dialogue is on point. Ruth and Catherine seem completely believable as they alternately snipe at each other, then provide loving support. I also liked that each chapter was told from the POV of one of the characters. It is sometimes awkward to get into a rhythm when POVs are alternating, but once you become immersed, it flows. Using this style helped me get into the minds of each woman, giving me another layer of understanding of their “why”. (Even if that “why” is kind of unhinged.)

If you love psychological suspense, action, and well-written, opinionated female characters, you will adore GONE TONIGHT. There is so much more I would like to say about this book, but it can’t be done without including spoilers. Pekkanen is at the top of her diabolical game here – do not pass this one by.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW by Melissa Adelman

June 20, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

Desperate Housewives meets The Couple Next Door in a chilling story of murder and intrigue set in a well-to-do DC suburb.

Sometimes the darkest acts occur in the most beautiful houses… When Alexis and her husband Sam buy a neglected Cape Cod house in an exclusive DC suburb, they are ecstatic. Sam is on the cusp of making partner at his law firm, Alexis is pregnant with their second child, and their glamorous neighbors welcome the couple with open arms. Things are looking up, and Alexis believes she can finally leave her troubled past behind. But the neighborhood’s picture-perfect image is shattered when their neighbor Teddy – a handsome, successful father of three – is found dead on the steep banks of the Potomac River. The community is shaken, and as the police struggle to identify and apprehend the killer, tension in the neighborhood mounts and long-buried secrets start to emerge. In the midst of the turmoil, Alexis takes comfort in her budding friendship with Teddy’s beautiful and charismatic widow, Blair. But as the women grow closer, the neighborhood only becomes more divided. And when the unthinkable truth behind Teddy’s murder is finally uncovered, both Blair and Alexis must reexamine their friendship and decide how far they are willing to go to preserve the lives they have so carefully constructed.

Thanks to NetGalley and St Martins Press for this review copy!

WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW is a domestic suspense novel that explores the complex relationships and secrets that exist within a seemingly idyllic suburban community. The book is set in a well-to-do DC suburb and tells the story of Alexis Crawford, a young woman who moves into the neighborhood with her husband Sam and their young son. Alexis is immediately drawn to her glamorous neighbor Blair, who seems to have it all. But when Teddy, Blair’s husband, is found dead, Alexis begins to suspect that there is more to Blair than meets the eye.

The novel is told from the alternating points of view of two women: Alexis, the new neighbor, and Blair, the widow of the victim. The other residents of the neighborhood are also interesting characters. There is the nosy neighbor who always seems to know everyone’s business, the couple who is always fighting, and the young family who is trying to make it in the suburbs.

The author does a decent job of creating a sense of unease and suspicion in the reader. The characters are complex and believable, and the plot is full of twists and turns.

One of the things I enjoyed most about WHAT THE NEIGHBORS SAW was the way Adelman explored the theme of secrets. Everyone in the neighborhood seems to be hiding something, and as the novel progresses, the secrets start to come out. This creates a sense of tension and suspense that keeps the reader hooked until the very end. Unfortunately, I felt the ending was a bit too predictable.

I also appreciated the way Adelman developed the characters, albeit in a stereotypical manner. Alexis is a sympathetic character, and I found myself rooting for her even when she made mistakes. Blair is a more enigmatic character, but Adelman does a good job of slowly peeling back the layers and revealing her true nature.

Overall, I thought this book was a fairly good read.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

THE PONCE FACTOR by J.D. Crawford

June 6, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

Eternal life – or sudden death?
Human civilization is put to the test when young chemist Caleb Lee accidentally discovers a juice formula that stops human aging. When the news leaks, the world erupts in chaos as crowds clamor for the juice. Medgar Landros, World Health Organization honcho and ex-special forces battlefield surgeon, is summoned to the White House to help respond to the juice, now named the Ponce Factor. We follow our hero Landros, Lee, and a cast of characters that includes Pastor Angela Nero, an unscrupulous minister who believes the Ponce Factor has been given to the world’s elite to ensure their exclusive place alongside God. This road leads to profound questions about our world.
As Nero’s plot approaches culmination, Landros plans desperate action of his own after he concludes that the government’s inept response is leading the world to destruction and Pastor Nero and her followers to immortal ascension.

Thanks to Reedsy Discovery and the author for providing me with this review copy!

The Ponce Factor by J.D. Crawford is a medical thriller that explores the ethical implications of immortality. The story follows Caleb Lee, a brilliant scientist who has discovered a way to extend human life indefinitely. However, he soon realizes that his discovery could have devastating consequences for the world.

Lee had been secretly working on his own juice formula to relieve the boredom at his job; a factory where health drinks are made. When he realizes it can make humans immortal, his life changes forever as he must decide whether to share his discovery with the world, thereby changing the course of history and ultimately, mankind.

As the news of this discovery spreads, it quickly becomes clear that there are those who would do anything to get their hands on it. Governments, corporations, and even religious groups all begin to vie for control of the Ponce Factor. World Health Organization Dr Medgar Landros is spirited away to the White House to work with the Vice President and Caleb Lee as they race against time to keep this discovery out of the wrong hands, and to find a way to use it for good.

Riots ensue as people who are desperate to get their hands on the juice storm pharmacies and hospitals, injuring or killing those who stand in their way. I pictured the echoes of Covid and the lines of people waiting to get their vaccines. Those Covid lines were peaceful for the most part – but THE PONCE FACTOR illustrates what would happen if the January 6^th riots were combined with greed and panic.

Evil Pastor Angela Nero is a fanatic who believes that the Ponce Factor should not be given to everyone. She preaches to her followers that giving this juice to elderly, sick, or mentally challenged people will be cruel, as they will be eternally stuck in their pain-filled life. Only those who can contribute to society should be allowed to live forever and become gods on earth. Nero is a narcissistic megalomaniac that has the gift of gab, easily persuading her followers and bringing out the worst in them. Nero is a very charismatic woman, and her diabolical mind is oddly admirable. I love strong female characters, and Nero fits the bill. Unfortunately, she is truly malevolent.

This book is a medium-paced and suspenseful thriller that raises some important questions about the nature of life and death. Crawford does an excellent job of exploring the ethical implications of immortality, and he creates a believable and engaging world in which his story unfolds. The studies that Dr Landros works on with the Vice President are realistic and eerie. As I read about the potential consequences that the juice could have on the economy, the healthcare system, and the financial industry, I took time to consider these possibilities in the real world. Crawford hit the nail on the head with these predictions. Considering what happened to the world when Covid hit, that was kids’ stuff compared to what would happen if this Ponce Factor would be discovered now, in 2023.

These characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing. There is a scene towards the end that is full of tension – it made me feel as if I were there with the characters as all hell broke loose. When an author gets you invested in fictional people so deeply that you feel emotions as you read, that’s the sign of greatness.

If you’re a fan of medical thrillers or science fiction, then I highly recommend The Ponce Factor. It’s a thought-provoking and entertaining read that will stay with you long after you finish it.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

HIDDEN BODIES by Caroline Kepnes

May 16, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

In the compulsively readable sequel to her widely acclaimed debut novel, YOU, Caroline Kepnes weaves a tale that Booklist calls “the love child of Holden Caulfield and Patrick Bateman.” Joe Goldberg is no stranger to hiding bodies. In the past ten years, this thirty-something has buried four of them, collateral damage in his quest for love. Now he’s heading west to Los Angeles, the city of second chances, determined to put his past behind him. In Hollywood, Joe blends in effortlessly with the other young upstarts. He eats guac, works in a bookstore, and flirts with a journalist neighbor. But while others seem fixated on their own reflections, Joe can’t stop looking over his shoulder. The problem with hidden bodies is that they don’t always stay that way. They re-emerge, like dark thoughts, multiplying and threatening to destroy what Joe wants most: true love. And when he finds it in a darkened room in Soho House, he’s more desperate than ever to keep his secrets buried. He doesn’t want to hurt his new girlfriend—he wants to be with her forever. But if she ever finds out what he’s done, he may not have a choice…

HIDDEN BODIES is the sequel to the best-selling thriller novel YOU. It continues the story of Joe Goldberg, a charming and obsessive stalker who becomes increasingly dangerous as his obsession with the object of his affection, Love Quinn, grows.

The novel is narrated in the first person by Joe himself, which gives readers a unique perspective into the mind of a stalker and sociopath. Kepnes does an excellent job of making Joe a sympathetic character, despite his disturbing actions, by delving into his past and showing the traumatic experiences that have shaped him.

The plot takes Joe on a wild and twisted journey from New York to Los Angeles as he tries to escape his past and start a new life with Love. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters, from Hollywood elites to struggling writers, all of whom become tangled up in his web of lies and manipulation.

These characters are also well-developed and complex. Joe’s love interest, Love Quinn, is a particularly interesting character who is much more than she appears to be at first. The interactions between the various characters are realistic and believable, adding to the sense of realism in the story.

Kepnes’ writing style is fast-paced and addictive, with plenty of suspenseful twists and turns to keep readers engaged. Her descriptions of Los Angeles are particularly vivid, bringing the city to life as a character in its own right.

While HIDDEN BODIES is a dark and unsettling read, it’s also a captivating exploration of obsession and the human psyche. Kepnes is a skilled storyteller who has a talent for creating deeply flawed characters who are still able to evoke empathy from the reader. This novel is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. Fans of the first book will not be disappointed, and those new to the series will quickly find themselves hooked.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

YOU by Caroline Kepnes

April 18, 2023 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

When a beautiful aspiring writer strides into the East Village bookstore where Joe Goldberg works, he does what anyone would do: he Googles the name on her credit card. There is only one Guinevere Beck in New York City. She has a public Facebook account and Tweets incessantly, telling Joe everything he needs to know: she is simply Beck to her friends, she went to Brown University, she lives on Bank Street, and she’ll be at a bar in Brooklyn tonight—the perfect place for a “chance” meeting. As Joe invisibly and obsessively takes control of Beck’s life, he orchestrates a series of events to ensure Beck finds herself in his waiting arms. Moving from stalker to boyfriend, Joe transforms himself into Beck’s perfect man, all while quietly removing the obstacles that stand in their way—even if it means murder. A terrifying exploration of how vulnerable we all are to stalking and manipulation, debut author Caroline Kepnes delivers a razor-sharp novel for our hyper-connected digital age.

YOU by Caroline Kepnes is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the dark side of human nature. The book tells the story of Joe Goldberg, a seemingly ordinary bookstore manager in New York City, who becomes obsessed with a customer named Guinevere Beck.

At first, Joe appears to be charming and intelligent, but as the story progresses, it becomes clear that he is a deeply disturbed individual. He starts to stalk Beck, using social media to gather information about her and manipulating her friends and acquaintances to get closer to her. As his obsession with Beck grows, Joe becomes increasingly violent and manipulative, ultimately leading to a shocking and disturbing conclusion.

What sets this book apart from other thrillers is its unique narrative style. The story is told from Joe’s perspective, giving readers a glimpse into the mind of a sociopath. Kepnes’s writing is masterful in this regard, as she captures Joe’s voice and inner monologue in a way that is both unsettling and compelling.

Despite his disturbing behavior, there are moments where Joe’s humanity shines through, causing the reader to feel conflicted about their feelings towards him.

The novel also explores themes of social media and how it can be used to manipulate and control others. Beck’s online presence is a key part of Joe’s obsession, and Kepnes does an excellent job of showing how the curated image people present on social media can be far from the truth.

Even thought the book is full of disturbing subject matter, YOU is a difficult book to put down. Kepnes keeps readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected plot twists and turns, and the tension builds to a fever pitch as Joe’s obsession with Beck spirals out of control. The characters are well-developed, and the dialogue is sharp and realistic, making for a truly immersive reading experience.

Overall, YOU is a dark and thought-provoking thriller that will leave readers questioning their own perceptions of reality and the people around them. It’s a disturbing yet fascinating look at the mind of a sociopath, and a must-read for fans of the genre.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

SURVIVAL by John Achile Yusuf

December 27, 2022 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 2 Comments

When the plane carrying a group of Nigerian students to South Africa for the annual African Colleges Competition, crashes into a Congolese jungle instead, there’s a lot at stake. These students were chosen to represent the nation, because of their academic brilliance and sportsmanship; their ability to beat competitors is the reason they are their country’s hope.

Thanks to The Fearless Storyteller House Emporium Ltd and the author for this review copy! It is always nice to read a YA novel occasionally, for the different perspectives and subject matter.

What caught my eye about this novella is the location and characters. The plot is simple: a plane crash in the jungle leaves eleven students surviving; but they need to navigate dangerous situations such as wild animal attacks, hostile pygmies, and ferocious weather changes. The students handle these challenges as best as possible – but can they all survive?

At the back of the book is a brief glossary of African words and phrases that will help the reader understand what is being said at times. My recommendation would be to put this at the beginning of the book, so the reader can see it and learn before they start reading. It is not a lot to remember and will eliminate having to flip to the back of the e-book every time there is a non-English phrase or word.

SURVIVAL is action packed and quite violent. I was expecting a LORD OF THE FLIES – type plot, but it is the complete opposite. The surviving students work together to support each other as the days pass. The novella begins with character development, as we see the students at school studying, forming cliques, with a bit of bullying and some hints of romance thrown into the mix.

I enjoyed Rose’s character the most, as she was portrayed as a smart woman whom the group turned to for information as they encountered problems. Linda was also written well; during a conversation with Tony, (the unofficial leader of the pack) she mentions that women have brains and goals, not just “boys and babies”. Tony is shocked to hear that not only did Linda get a scholarship to a UK school, but her passion in life is also to be an astronaut. I wish that there had been more character development with the other students, as it would have helped me become more invested in them as they struggled to stay alive.

The plot is filled with promise, but the writer’s style is choppy, probably because English is not his first language. Here is something I learned about languages in Nigeria:

In Nigeria, a lot of people’s first language isn’t English. And even with the ones whose are, the way they speak or write English is largely dictated by who taught them. That in itself is dependent on where they live. Nigeria is not a homogeneous place, so certain things are not the same all over. Yusuf was raised closer to the Northern part of Nigeria, which is like a different country compared with the South. The mentality, the lifestyles, etc. They rarely, if ever, learn English first. So, by the time English is learned as a second or even third language, they’re not actually learning it from scratch. It’s translation or transliteration going on.

SURVIVAL is also his first book, so Yusuf’s technique may not be honed yet. That being said, I would give this book a strong three stars. The action kept me interested and I looked forward to what would happen next to the beleaguered students. The fact that the jungle was essentially another character was a plus, as the setting and how well it is incorporated into a book can also make or break a story.

I would be interested to read a prequel, with these students interacting both in and out of school. That would help with character development for this book and would give the reader another taste of African YA literature.

SURVIVAL is a quick and easy to read YA novel that will hold your attention as you root for the students to overcome adversity. Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

THE FIRST HARM by Steven Piskula

November 29, 2022 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 0 Comments

A first-year medical student determined to do everything right . . . discovers something very wrong. Now somebody wants her dead. Tanna Christensen spent countless hours planning for her first gross anatomy dissection, but nothing could have prepared her for what she found. Beneath her scalpel lies a cadaver riddled with disturbing genetic abnormalities—evidence pointing to an unthinkable crime. Tanna believes her discovery is the tip of a terrifying secret that goes far deeper than a single corpse. But when her investigation leads to a brutal murder, a lethal cover-up threatens to destroy the future she once dreamed of. And now she’s the next target. Afraid and on the run, Tanna must expose the truth before more lives are lost—including her own. Or is it already too late?

Thanks to the author, BookSirens, Hidden Gems Books, and editors Jim Thomsen and David Gatewood for this ARC!

THE FIRST HARM is an excellent first outing by author Steven Piskula. There is suspense, mystery, sci-fi medicine, and a strong female lead character. Aspiring physician Tanna is drawn into a conspiracy when she secretly dissects a corpse that has an unusual anatomy glitch. Soon, her world comes crashing down around her as she is hunted mercilessly to prevent her from sharing her knowledge with the world. She finds an unlikely ally in an emotionally damaged former biker, Jason, who gets caught up in the whirlwind cat-and-mouse game purely by accident.

Tanna is a strong character, yet weak at the same time. She is filled with self-doubt and sometimes hesitates when she should be acting. She is full of dogged persistence, however, as she never gives up in her quest to uncover the truth. At times I wished she would stop second-guessing herself and be confident; this was probably the most frustrating thing about the story.

There is a love-to-hate self-aggrandizing head scientist, Dr Craig Emmerson, who is the head of Modern Genetics, a futuristic but entirely plausible company doing some unethical research. He is arrogant, narcissistic, and brilliant. Even though he was the baddest of villains, I enjoyed reading his innermost thoughts and learning about his evil intentions. I would be eager to see a prequel with him as the center of attention (this fictional character would LOVE that!) to learn more about his journey as he created Modern Genetics.

I did feel dubious about Jason, who is an addict who just wants to be high so he can escape his demons. He is very rough around the edges, but no fool, as he helps Tanna escape some precarious situations. As the book progresses, they become more of a cohesive team while the action ratchets up. I was definitely turning those pages to see what was going to happen next!

The author’s writing style is straightforward and easy to read. His ability to create the sci-f medicine of Modern Genetics is amazing and thought provoking, as his creation of other characters, some of which may be unreliable narrators. I was not sure who I should trust as the book progressed, and the ending was satisfactory without being abrupt or inconclusive. There were twists along the way that held my interest and I could not predict how the book would end. Piskula is an accomplished screenwriter with an MFA, and his talent shines bright in THE FIRST HARM. It was a wonderful read.

Want your own copy? You can pick it up here.

THE SWELL by Allie Reynolds

July 19, 2022 / Kyle Wendy Skultety / 1 Comment

Point Break meets And Then There Were None in a pulse-pounding beach read that explores the dangerous ties between a group of elite surfers who are determined to find the perfect waves at any cost…even murder.

The waves are to die for.
Three years ago, passionate surfer Kenna Ward lost her two great loves—after her boyfriend drowned, she hung up her surfboard and swore off the water for good. But she is drawn back to the beach when her best friend, Mikki, announces her sudden engagement to a man Kenna has never met—a member of a tight-knit group of surfers. Kenna travels to a remote Australian beach, entering a dangerous world far from civilization where the waves, weather, and tides are all that matter. Kenna is tempted back into the surf and drawn into the dazzling group and the beach they call their own.

But this coastal paradise has a dark side, and members of the group begin to go missing. Kenna realizes that in order to protect Mikki and learn more about the surfers, she must become one of them…without becoming one of their victims. What follows is an adrenaline-fueled thriller packed with twists and turns, exploring the dangerous edge between passion and obsession.

THE SWELL was a story that grabbed you right away and sucked you into all the characters’ drama. And there is A LOT of drama! The isolated beach setting was perfect, quite different from many of the thrillers I’ve read. One of the good parts about the setting is that it loomed large in the plot – the waves, the weather, and the confinement of it all just hovered above the characters and slowly began to smother them like a wet blanket.

Everyone seems to be an unreliable narrator and as I read, I didn’t know who to believe. This book is so filled with twists and suspense that I’m having a hard time writing this, since I don’t want to spoil the story for you.

Each chapter is written from the point of view of each character, some more than others. My first thought would be to have less of the POV of Kenna (the one that joins the surfers and is considered a newbie) and more of the others. I got frustrated more and more each time Kenna asked a question; maybe some of her queries could have been answered by having a chapter in the POV of the others. Belatedly I understood that my personal reaction to all those questions was to mirror how the others felt about her never ending stream of “Why is this…?” and “Who said that…?” among other, more pointed questions. Yes, the answers to all her questions furthered the plot along and doled out information slowly, to keep us guessing about what would happen next. As I continued reading, however, there were times that I wanted to shake Kenna and tell her to have a simple conversation without nosing into everyone’s business.

I really enjoyed all the surfing lingo and descriptions of the ocean waves, as well as the danger of it all. The setting is wild and unforgiving, with treachery everywhere. Kenna’s interactions with the others are treacherous as well, as she is unable to tell who is being truthful.

Each character’s backstory is explained along the way, and the tension builds and builds since the author gives the reader just enough information to make them rethink everything they’ve learned so far. Their personalities mesh, then break apart, just like an episode of “Survivor”.

This was a get-under-your-skin read, and I didn’t want to put it down! The author’s style is a good combination of dialogue and description, and the ending is something you will totally never see coming. I’m planning to read Reynold’s debut novel, SHIVER, and I hope it’s as good as this one.

Love twisty psychological stories? You can pick up your copy here.