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The Stillwater Girls (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: Minka Kent

Genre: Thriller

Length: 246 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: N/A

Summary

Nineteen-year-old Wren and her sisters, Sage and Evie, have grown up isolated in a primitive cabin, warned to avoid civilization. When their mother vanishes after leaving to seek help for a sick Evie, the sisters are left alone, struggling to survive. As supplies dwindle and a brutal winter looms, a stranger arrives, demanding answers and refusing to leave. Forced to break their mother’s rule to never go beyond the forest, Wren and Sage discover a house with chilling secrets about their past—and the truth of what they’ve been running from their entire lives.

Thoughts

I really enjoyed the unexpected twist at the end—it took the story in a direction I hadn’t anticipated. I also appreciated that no one thought to exclude Wren once her sisters were reunited with their birth families, which added an emotional layer to the narrative. The author did an excellent job building suspicion around Nicolette’s husband, only to reveal that he was innocent of any criminal or ethical wrongdoing, which was a clever subversion of expectations.

On the flip side, I wish the story hadn’t started with Sage and Wren’s mother already missing. It would have been interesting to explore the dynamic between the women before the disappearance. Additionally, I found it puzzling that Nicolette’s father never discussed the large sums of money being transferred from her trust fund with Grant. Given Nicolette’s past, I would have expected him to consider the connection to his missing granddaughter, which felt like a missed opportunity in the plot. It almost seemed as though her father was trying to cause trouble in Nicolette’s marriage.

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Home Before Dark (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5 Stars)

Information

Author: Riley Sager

Genre: Thriller

Length: 384 pages

Format: Hardcover

Series: N/A

Summary

After her father’s death, Maggie inherits Baneberry Hall and returns to renovate it in preparation for sale. However, her return is far from welcoming, as figures from the past—immortalized in the infamous House of Horrors—linger ominously in the shadows.

Thoughts

In Home Before Dark by Riley Sager, the narrative is rich with intriguing twists and chilling discoveries that keep readers hooked. One of the most compelling aspects of the story is Maggie's return to Baneberry Hall to uncover the truth about the sinister property that shaped her childhood. As the layers of the house's dark history unravel, readers learn that Petra, the housekeeper’s eldest daughter, mysteriously vanished on the same night Maggie's family fled the home in terror. This revelation adds a haunting complexity to the plot.

The tension escalates when Maggie and the groundskeeper stumble upon a skeleton during renovations, a chilling find that deepens the mystery surrounding Baneberry Hall. The story further shocks as it reveals that Ewan and Jess, Maggie’s parents, believed their daughter might have been responsible for Petra’s disappearance and went to great lengths to cover it up. The supernatural elements of the tale come to a head when Petra’s vengeful spirit claims justice, killing Marta Carver for the role she played in Petra’s death twenty-five years earlier. These revelations create an intricate web of mystery and suspense, making the book a captivating read.

However, not every aspect of the story is equally satisfying. Maggie’s frustration at her parents’ refusal to reveal the full truth about their time at Baneberry Hall is palpable—and understandable. Their reluctance to share vital information feels unfair, especially given Maggie’s personal stake in the events. This withholding of the truth diminishes the resolution Maggie deserves.Additionally, Maggie’s quick dismissal of Brian as a suspect in the strange occurrences at Baneberry Hall is perplexing. Given his presence in the house at odd times—such as the moment she finds him waiting for her—it seems plausible that he could have been responsible for certain incidents, like turning on the chandelier light. These inconsistencies detract slightly from the otherwise gripping plot, leaving readers with lingering questions. Despite these frustrations, Home Before Dark remains a masterfully crafted story filled with suspense, twists, and an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the final page.

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Such Sharp Teeth (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3 Stars)

Information

Author: Rachel Harrison

Genre: Comedy Horror

Length: 325 pages

Format: Hardcover

Series: N/A

Summary

The story follows Rory, a 27-year-old with a streak of immaturity, who is bitten by a werewolf while visiting home to care for her pregnant twin sister, Scarlett—whose difficult personality manages to outshine Rory’s own.

Thoughts

In this book, I loved seeing Rory stand up to her mother, confronting the guilt and lack of accountability that had overshadowed her childhood. It was refreshing to witness her assert herself and break free from the emotional weight of their relationship. Despite Rory's challenges, her sense of humour shone through, making her an engaging and relatable protagonist. The twist with Mia being the werewolf who bit Rory initially was an excellent reveal, adding depth to their relationship and the story. And of course, I was thrilled that Rory finally found her happy ending with Ian, which felt well-deserved after everything she endured.

However, there were aspects I didn’t enjoy as much. Scarlett’s secretive behaviour was frustrating to follow as a reader, especially since the eventual reveal didn’t justify the buildup. While it made sense for Rory to first confide in her sister about her werewolf transformation, I wish she had shared her secret with Ian earlier. Seeing how their relationship developed with this new dynamic could have been fascinating. Lastly, I don't think this book should be marketed as an adult read—it feels more suited for young adults or even teenagers, given its tone and themes.

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The Last Girls Standing (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3.5 Stars)

Information

Author: Jennifer Dugan

Genre: YA Thriller

Length: 304 pages

Format: Hardcover

Series: N/A

Summary

The surviving counsellors of a summer camp massacre delve into the mystery of what happened that fateful night, only to discover that the truth could put their lives in even greater danger.

Thoughts

This book offered plenty of intriguing twists and complex dynamics. I loved Sloan’s determination to recover her memories, even undergoing hypnosis to uncover the truth. Magda, Cherry’s mother, initially seemed tied to the camp massacre, but the clever reveal of her as a red herring added depth to the mystery. One of the story’s strongest points was the constant tension between Sloan’s and Cherry’s perspectives, leaving the reader unsure of whose version of events to trust.

However, some aspects fell flat for me. The co-dependent relationship between Sloan and Cherry often felt frustrating, and Sloan’s mother’s rudeness toward Cherry, possibly fueled by jealousy or latent homophobia, added unnecessary tension. Sloan’s descent into madness after immersing herself in the cult beliefs introduced by Sasha—whose brother was involved in the massacre—was a disappointing conclusion. While her obsession made sense, the reveal that Sloan kills Cherry after losing touch with reality lacked the impact I’d hoped for. As a thriller fan, I was expecting a more compelling and satisfying resolution.

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The Only One Left (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars)

Information

Author: Riley Sager

Genre: Thriller

Length: 383 pages

Format: Hardcover

Series: N/A

Summary

In 1929, the brutal Hope family murders shocked the Maine coast, with most assuming seventeen-year-old Lenora was the killer, though nothing was ever proven. Now in 1983, Kit McDeere arrives as Lenora's caretaker at the decaying Hope’s End, where Lenora, now mute and in a wheelchair, can only communicate by typing. When Lenora offers to reveal the truth about that night, Kit eagerly begins transcribing her story. But as details about her predecessor’s sudden departure emerge, Kit starts to wonder if Lenora might be hiding something—and perhaps even dangerous.

Thoughts

I loved how the public’s perception of Kat and Lenora cast them both as guilty, adding layers of complexity to their characters and making their motivations feel deeply nuanced. The ending completely took me by surprise; I don’t think I could have guessed it in a million years. Although I hate to admit it, the eerie rhyme the kids made up about Lenora was oddly catchy—darkly clever in its own way. Lenora’s urge to confide in her new caregiver about her family’s tragic murders felt so authentic and brought a real emotional depth to her character. Each character in this story had their own distinct charm and complexities, which made them fascinating to follow. I was especially intrigued by Carter’s possible connection to the sinister events at Hope’s End, which added an extra layer of suspense. Plus, reading Lenora’s point of view in her typed letters was a treat; it felt like stepping directly into her mind.

On the other hand, I couldn’t stand Mrs. Baker—she was utterly unlikable, and her constant resentment toward her own employer was grating. And then there was Mary’s sudden disappearance. Considering Lenora’s complicated history, I found it surprising that the local police didn’t seem more concerned. It felt like an oversight, especially given the heightened tension surrounding Lenora.

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Oakwood Island (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: Angella Cormier & Pierre C. Arsenault

Genre: Horror

Length: 217 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: Oakwood Island #1

Summary

On Oakwood Island, sinister forces are using the Cordyceps fungus—a mind-controlling parasite found in Peruvian zombie ants—to manipulate people and animals in unimaginable ways. Strange and dark happenings have the coastal community on edge, fearing their island may never be the same. When Maggie, a local waitress, appears at the police station weak and sickly after escaping a kidnapper she describes as monstrous, her unexplained symptoms baffle doctors. Some locals hold pieces of the puzzle, but they aren’t sure if they can—or want to—save their neighbours. As secrets from the island’s past emerge, the residents find themselves caught in a battle of good versus evil, unsure which side will ultimately triumph or at what cost.

Thoughts

This book created a wonderfully eerie atmosphere and delivered some truly engaging plot twists that kept me hooked. The introduction of a mysterious, seemingly supernatural entity that takes control of a man's body was a particularly fascinating choice. This man, now a pawn to a darker force, kidnaps Maggie and injects her with an unknown yellow substance, setting off a terrifying chain of events. The source of the yellow substance, mushroom spores native to the island, was a clever detail that connected the natural landscape with the novel’s supernatural themes, giving the story a unique and unsettling feel. Additionally, Jack’s decision not to kill Norah was a refreshing surprise, adding depth to his character and creating a morally complex moment that enriched the story. I also enjoyed the subplot surrounding the deceased, malevolent doctor who still wreaks havoc from beyond the grave. Learning about his disturbing life, even posthumously, cast an ominous shadow over the island and its residents, amplifying the novel’s tension and dread.

However, a few elements did detract from my experience. The doctor, while portrayed as an intelligent and calculating villain, makes a baffling misstep by disposing of his victims’ remains in the same spot—an oversight that doesn’t align with his supposed cunning. This detail undermined his character and seemed like a plot hole, given how methodical he is in other aspects. I also found myself slightly overwhelmed by the dual mysteries running simultaneously throughout the book. While both were intriguing, they competed for attention and made the narrative feel crowded at times; I would have preferred the story to focus on one central mystery, allowing the suspense to build more gradually and thoroughly. Additionally, the sudden mention of rape was jarring and unsettling, and it felt out of place in a story already filled with sinister elements. I wish this topic had been introduced with more sensitivity, as its abruptness was difficult to process and left me feeling uncomfortable.

Despite these drawbacks, the book still captivated me with its eerie atmosphere and rich details, especially in its supernatural and psychological horror elements. The island setting was used greatly, making the characters feel isolated and vulnerable to the dark forces at play. The novel’s best moments stemmed from its exploration of sinister influences and the way fear can spread through a small community. Overall, while the book could have benefited from a more focused approach, it still provided a spine-chilling journey that lingered with me long after I’d turned the last page.

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A Room Swept White (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐ (2.5 Stars)

Information

Author: Sophie Hannah

Genre: Thriller

Length: 454 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: CID#5

Summary

TV producer Fliss Benson receives a mysterious card with sixteen numbers just as she’s assigned to a documentary on mothers wrongfully accused of killing their infants. The project centers on three exonerated women and the disgraced doctor who pursued their convictions. When one of the mothers is found dead with an identical card in her pocket, Fliss realizes there’s more to this story than she could have imagined.

Thoughts

This book was a gripping, twist-filled experience that kept me on edge right until the last page. From the beginning, I found myself immersed in a maze of shifting clues and clever misdirection, constantly questioning which of my theories might be right. Just when I thought I had uncovered the truth, the plot would veer in a new direction, introducing fresh layers of mystery that kept me guessing. The revelation that Angus Hines and Laurie Natarass were behind it all was both satisfying and surprising—an ideal payoff for the suspense that built so effectively through each chapter. I particularly appreciated that the pacing remained tight, with each scene driving the story forward; there was hardly a moment that felt unnecessary or overly drawn out. Every chapter nudged me closer to the truth, allowing for a satisfying sense of discovery that kept me eager to turn the page.

Despite the strengths of the plot and pacing, some character dynamics left me frustrated. The relationship between Fliss and Laurie, in particular, seemed baffling. Laurie is portrayed as a self-centred character who feels entitled to anything he wants, yet Fliss remains inexplicably enamoured with him. This romantic subplot didn’t feel authentic, and it was hard to understand Fliss’s attraction to someone so blatantly unworthy of it. Furthermore, the characterization throughout the book felt uneven. Many of the characters came across as contradictory in their behaviour, with motivations that seemed unclear or inconsistent. This lack of depth made it difficult to connect with or root for them, which ultimately detracted from the emotional engagement of the story. Instead of being drawn into their lives, I found myself distanced by their unlikable and inconsistent traits.

While the novel’s intricate plot and skillful misdirection were a delight, the disappointing character development somewhat dulled its impact. It’s a story that excels in mystery and suspense, but it could have benefited from characters who felt more realistic and nuanced.

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“At seventeen, Lenora Hope Hung her sister with a rope Stabbed her father with a knife Took her mother’s happy life ‘It wasn’t me,’ Lenora said But she’s the only one not dead.”

The Only One Left, Riley Sager

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le temps d’un livre

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@perksoftales

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The Hollow Places (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: T. Kingfisher

Genre: Horror

Length: 337 pages

Format: Paperback

Series: N/A

Summary

Kara stumbles upon these cryptic words inside a hidden bunker she uncovers behind a hole in the wall of her uncle's house. Recently divorced and back living at home, Kara becomes fixated on the strange message and begins to explore the eerie bunker. Soon, she discovers that it contains portals to numerous alternate realities, each haunted by creatures that can hear thoughts—and the more she fears them, the more powerful they grow.

Thoughts

In this gripping novel, the eerie atmosphere of the other dimension is one of its standout features, pulling readers into a world filled with chilling suspense. The character Simon provides much-needed comedic relief, balancing the unsettling tone of the story. The introduction of Sturdivant adds to the tension—he is discovered by the duo, chained up, but with the lower half of his body gruesomely torn open by the creatures known as "Them." This moment intensifies the readers' investment, as they root for Kara and Simon to find their way back to their world.

A pivotal moment occurs when Kara finds a Bible in one of the bunkers, containing diary entries from a previous inhabitant, adding a layer of mystery and deepening the lore of the story. The anxiety readers experience peaks when Kara starts sleepwalking, keeping them on edge, hoping she doesn’t hurt herself or, worse, return to the alternate dimension. The willow light, a strange and enchanting element, is another highlight, bringing objects and possibly the narrative itself to life in fascinating ways.

However, the book isn't without its drawbacks. The frequent references to The Chronicles of Narnia, while understandable in context, begin to feel repetitive after a while. For those unfamiliar with the Narnia books or movies, the metaphor might not land at all. The nickname "Carrot," which was charming at first, quickly loses its appeal due to overuse. Additionally, the descriptions of the monsters were often unclear, leaving readers struggling to visualize them until the end of the book. Including a visual representation of these alien creatures would have greatly enhanced the experience.

Lastly, while the main character's divorce catalyzes her relocation, it feels somewhat unnecessary to the plot. Simply having Kara move to the Wonder Museum to help her uncle would have been a sufficient premise to kick off the story.

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The House Across The Lake (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 Stars)

Information

Author: Riley Sager

Genre: Thriller

Length: 349 pages

Series: N/A

Summary

Casey Fletcher, a widowed actress seeking refuge at her family’s lake house in Vermont, spends her days watching her wealthy neighbours, Tom and Katherine Royce, across the lake. After saving Katherine from drowning, the two women form a friendship, but Casey soon realizes their seemingly perfect marriage is hiding dark secrets. When Katherine suddenly disappears, Casey becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth, leading to a chilling story of voyeurism, guilt, and deception.

Thoughts

There were several elements I absolutely loved. One of the standout revelations was that Len was the one behind the disappearances of the local missing girls—a dark and gripping twist that kept me on the edge of my seat. I also appreciated Boone, the handyman next door, who immediately dove into investigating what happened to Katherine with an admirable sense of urgency. 

The twist of Katherine being possessed by Len was a surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed, adding an eerie layer to the story. The reveal of the truth behind Len’s accidental drowning tied the plot together in a chilling way. However, there was one element I didn’t quite connect with. While I understand that the main character’s excessive drinking was a coping mechanism to forget her trauma, it seemed like a lot for one person to block out—though I’m no expert in psychology, so I could be wrong there. 

These highs and lows made for an intense and memorable reading experience.

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A House With Good Bones (Book Review)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.25 Stars)

Information

Author: T. Kingfisher

Genre: Horror

Length: 243 pages

Format: Hardcover

Series: N/A

Summary

Sam Montgomery arrives at her mother’s house, excited for a quiet visit. But the house feels cold, her mom is paranoid, and Sam discovers a jar of teeth hidden in the garden with vultures circling above. Determined to uncover what’s scaring her mom, she digs for answers that are better left undiscovered.

Thoughts

This fast-paced horror novel is perfect for Fall, offering readers a thrilling ride with plenty of surprises. One of the standout elements is the mystery surrounding Gran Mae haunting the property. While it seems like the most likely explanation, the author masterfully delivers an unexpected twist, keeping readers on their toes. Sam's discovery of what happened to her great-grandfather, Gran Mae's father, adds another layer to the eerie family history.

However, I was frustrated by Sam's mom's behaviour. Despite knowing something is wrong, she fails to protect her kids, especially Sam. I expected her to push Sam away to keep her safe, as she had done with her son’s wife, but instead, she let her daughter walk into danger. Another issue was the explanation of the underground railroad children, which felt rushed and left me unclear about exactly what they were and why they were targeting the family. On a lighter note, the witty banter between characters provided much-needed relief from the growing tension, balancing the horror with moments of humour.

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🚨 Vetted Fundraiser 🚨

My name is Amira, I am 23 years old, and this is my story, filled with challenges and pain💔.

Four years ago, I lost my father and became responsible for my family. I took on the responsibility of caring for my sick mother and siblings, working hard as a university assistant and a programmer in a company. I was building my future step by step, enduring all the hardships 💙.

But the war turned my life upside down. I lost my home, my job, my university, and everything I worked for. We were displaced seven times in search of safety, and each time we hoped to find a better place. We are currently in Al-Zawayda, living in a school for displaced people, and we face harsh conditions every day😥.

This is a glimpse of our daily suffering, as we lack the most basic necessities of life. Every day, we face challenges that turn survival into a constant struggle in unforgiving conditions😓.

The accumulated waste around our area poses a serious health hazard, polluting the air and spreading diseases that have affected us all. Both our children and the elderly suffer from illnesses due to this ongoing pollution, in a situation that threatens our lives and health every day💔.

My heart longs for family gatherings, and I feel nostalgic for the moments we used to spend together. Now, we are separated between the north and the south, and we haven't seen each other for ten months😥.

I miss every corner of my room, which was my safe haven. Those corners hold my memories and reflect my peace, and I yearn to return to them🧡.

I also miss my working life, which, despite being exhausting, gave my life meaning and purpose. I miss the days of work and the effort I used to put in 💚.

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Life is short. Live it. Fear is natural. Face it. Memory is powerful. Use it.