Obsession by Stuart Woods

Sometimes a book ends up on your nightstand because fate (or in this case, your father) insists. My dad went on a Stuart Woods shopping spree, read one, and promptly decided he wasn’t a fan, so naturally he passed the whole lot to me. I wasn’t planning on diving into another Woods novel, especially after my experience with one of his Stone Barrington books, which spent more time in the bedroom than anywhere else useful. But I needed an “O” book for my A to Z Challenge, so Obsession it was. I braced for disappointment. What I got instead was a crime fiction story I actually enjoyed.

Teddy Fay, our charming ex-CIA lead, was an enjoyable main character. The man has a closet full of disguises and a talent for blending in while keeping just enough distance to be dangerous. Honestly, if there’s ever a job opening for “morally gray fixer who gets stuff done,” Teddy’s the guy. I don't mind 'morally gray'. 

The plot split into two compelling storylines, both tied together by obsession. First, there’s a stalker obsessed with an actress, snipping out magazine photos and plotting her husband’s death because, naturally, that’s how you win someone’s heart. He’s creepy, predictable in the way stalkers are, and ultimately hoisted by his own petard. Karma, folks.

Then there's the kidnapping subplot. Poor Rebecca gets snatched, and while her captors are mostly idiots with fragile egos, their dysfunction actually added layers to the story. The stakes felt real enough, even if I wasn’t exactly chewing my nails. I did, however, want to slap one of them. Just because.

The pacing was solid. It read like a ride-along with a guy who knows what he’s doing and doesn’t much care about the rules. I liked that energy. I liked Teddy Fay. I liked that justice came from outside the system in a way that felt clever, not contrived.

All that being said, I will probably try another of Stuart Woods' books, especially if Teddy Fay is the main character. I do not, however, plan to revisit Stone Barrington. Not unless someone promises me there’s more plot and fewer silk sheets. Obsession was not a re-read, but could be a “tell a friend” kind of book, especially if that friends likes crime fiction. 

The Dark Wives by Ann Cleeves

I’ll admit it. I was lured in by the price tag. BookBub dangled The Dark Wives in front of me for $1.99, and with a solid-sounding synopsis, I figured, why not? I’ve never read Ann Cleeves before, but I’m not immune to a good crime fiction bargain.

This one features DI Vera Stanhope, and I liked her straightaway. She’s no-nonsense, believable, and gets the job done without needing to be flashy or tortured or clever for clever’s sake. Just a solid, grounded detective doing her job.

The story centers on Chloe, a teenager on the run and in hiding, and once it was clear she was alive, I was completely in her corner. Her backstory gave the book emotional weight, and I found myself hoping she'd get more than just survival. She deserved a little peace.

The setting, Newcastle upon Tyne and its surrounding landscape, was atmospheric and gritty, and the old legend of the “dark wives” lent a haunting layer that gave the mystery some added depth. It worked well as a backdrop for tracking down some very real-world villains.

Because let’s talk about that crime: a financial scheme exploiting children’s homes. Honestly, it felt too believable to be fiction. I think there are absolutely people out there getting rich off the backs of the downtrodden, and it offends me to my core. No one should profit from innocent children in unfortunate circumstances. 

The pacing was decent, though I wouldn’t have complained if it picked up the pace now and then. The big twist was Chris Woodburn's character, and it genuinely shocked me. I can’t imagine the horror of finding out you played a role in your child’s death, even if you are guilty as sin in other aspects.

All in all, The Dark Wives was an average read. Not a waste of time, but not something I’d revisit or recommend enthusiastically. I don’t plan to dive into more of Ann Cleeves’ work, but I also don’t regret spending the afternoon with this one. Solid crime fiction with a strong sense of place and a few memorable moments. And hey. $1.99.

Down a Dark Road (Burkholder #9)

Let me start by saying this: If you’ve ever thought your high school reunion was intense, you haven’t been hunted through the woods by your former Amish classmate-turned-convicted-murderer. That’s Down a Dark Road in a nutshell. Linda Castillo once again drops us into Painters Mill, where people apparently can't sneeze without uncovering some deeply buried secret involving a gun, a buggy, and a whole lot of trauma.

This time, Chief Kate Burkholder is literally face-to-face with her past. Joseph King, a man she once knew well (and might’ve shared a few long, moody glances with in their teens), has escaped prison and wants to clear his name… by kidnapping people at gunpoint. The usual “I’m innocent” move.

Kate insists on doing things the hard way, like staying overnight with the fugitive while she puzzles out whether he’s a misunderstood victim or a very charming psychopath with a well-maintained beard.

The pacing is solid: it starts with a simmer and builds to a full boil. And while I guessed a few of the twists, the unraveling of the truth still kept me locked in. Castillo is great at giving you Amish tranquility and then slapping it with a violent thunderclap of “Nope!”

We've got a full house of themes: trauma, guilt, redemption, powerful people doing shady things, and how your past can sneak up on you with a rifle. There’s also a heavy helping of “everyone has secrets”, and in Painters Mill, they usually involve murder.

It’s gripping, gritty, and full of tension. Kate is as stubborn, smart, and scarred as ever. If you’re already on board with this series, Down a Dark Road delivers what you came for: Amish noir with heart, history, and high-stakes justice. I would definitely recommend it, especially if you like your thrillers with a side of hay bale and your cops emotionally complicated.

The Perfect Divorce by Jeneva Rose

If you read The Perfect Marriage and thought, “Wow, Sarah Morgan is terrifying,” buckle up, because The Perfect Divorce says, “Hold my wine.” Sarah’s back, and this time she’s a mother, a soon-to-be divorcée, and still the kind of person you’d trust with absolutely nothing sharp. Seriously. Don't turn your back.

Let’s start with Bob, the husband. He cheats, just like a narcissistic lawyer would. (Can you really ever trust a lawyer?) But was Sarah ever really going to stick with him? I don’t think so. When you hand your husband something that looks suspiciously like a murder weapon, it’s probably not because you’re planning a cozy anniversary dinner. Bob was a pawn, Sarah was the queen, and this was chess. Murder Chess. 

Motherhood hasn’t exactly softened Sarah. Yes, she loves Summer, but I wouldn’t recommend Summer forget her mom’s birthday or borrow her heels without asking. Just saying. That woman holds grudges like it's her full-time job.

And speaking of jobs, Adam’s case reopens, things spiral, and we’re all reminded that you can’t actually start over when your past involves a highly publicized murder trial and a trail of bodies. Please. The police were too busy covering their own behinds to bother with facts.

Every character had secrets. Every character crossed a line. I didn’t trust anyone, but Sarah especially. She could smile at you while holding a knife and you'd thank her for the compliment.

In the end, I can’t justify anything Sarah, Adam, or Bob did. They’re all awful, just in slightly different flavors. I wasn’t exactly satisfied with anyone’s fate (except maybe Carissa’s), and I’m pretty sure Sarah’s still out there, sipping tea, plotting someone’s downfall, and casually Googling “how to fake empathy.”

Oh, and the title? The Perfect Divorce basically means: divorce, but make it messy. And criminal. I love the cover - "Till death do us part. Yours. Not mine."

Among the Wicked by Linda Castillo (Burkholder #8)

Kate goes undercover in an Amish community and things go downhill fast. Dead girl, creepy bishop, shady cops. Even the police can’t be trusted. Secrets, lies, and a whole lot of oh-no-you-don't moments. I flew through it and may now be suspicious of anyone in a wide-brimmed hat.

After the Storm by Linda Castillo (Burkholder #7)

Well. I didn’t expect to be traumatized by hogs this week, but well, here we are.

After the Storm is another excellent installment in the Kate Burkholder series, and it kicks off with a tornado that rips through town and literally unearths a decades-old skeleton. Cue secrets, small-town scandal, and the kind of Amish drama that makes you want to look twice at your neighbor's barn.

The deeper Kate digs, the more tangled things get. There are hidden pasts, mysterious deaths, family tension, and just when you think things can’t get any darker, someone gets murdered in a way that ensures I will never look at pigs the same way again. Ever. I like bacon, but now it feels personal.

I loved the pacing, the emotional depth, and how Kate’s own trauma is always simmering under the surface. She’s tough, smart, and just the right amount of emotionally wrecked to keep things interesting. And like all wonderful Linda Castillo books so far, the “whodunnit” genuinely surprised me. I thought I had it figured out. I did not. At all. Just knock me over with a feather.

In short: small-town secrets, a big storm, emotional damage, and one heck of a hog-related plot twist. What’s not to love?

The Dead Will Tell by Linda Castillo (Burkholder #6)

Murder, mayhem, and secrets in Amish country? Oh, yes. I'll have some of that in a side order to go.

In this sixth Kate Burkholder mystery, we’ve got a decades-old massacre, a fresh batch of murders, and a whole lot of people acting shady. Kate’s digging into the past, and let’s just say trauma doesn’t exactly age well. The story twists, turns, and I was not prepared for who the villain was. Never saw it coming. 

This one had me flipping pages like I was trying to fan out a deck of cards. Dark, emotional, and surprisingly twisty—just the way I like my crime fiction.

Backfire by Catherine Coulter

I picked up Backfire because I needed a book set (at least partially) in Montana for my 50 States Challenge. Catherine Coulter’s FBI series has been a reliable go-to for me, so this felt like a solid bet. Bonus: I didn’t have to slog through chapters of setup. The book opens with attempted murder and I was in. If the judge hadn’t turned at just the right moment, well, let’s just say it would’ve been a very short story.

One of the things I enjoyed most was that there were two crimes running side by side. At first, you think you’re following a straightforward “find the would-be assassin” plotline, but then surprise! There’s a twist (actually, several), and I especially loved that Sue turned out to be Xu. Double identities, dual cases, and criminals who apparently hold team meetings? Yes, please.

Savich and Sherlock were their usual FBI power couple selves, professional, sharp, and thankfully not tangled up in any unnecessary steamy scenes. (Appreciate you, Catherine Coulter.) I also found myself hoping we’ll see more of Harry and Eve. They’ve got spin-off potential written all over them. And Emma? The 11-year-old piano prodigy? Adorable. But it was Sean, the 5-year-old with three girlfriends and a financial plan to support them all, who completely stole the show. I hope he gets his own series by middle school.

The pacing felt just right—not too slow, not breakneck—and while it wasn’t the twistiest story I’ve read, the ending packed a satisfying punch. I had completely forgotten how things started out on the East Coast by the time we hit the big reveal on the West Coast. It all came full circle in a way that made me go, “Ohhhhhh.” Always a good sign.

Even if you haven’t read the rest of the series, you can definitely dive into this one without feeling lost. Longtime fans will appreciate the familiar characters, but new readers won’t feel like they’re missing half the story. And if you just need a solid crime thriller to check off the Montana box on your reading challenge? This one’s got you covered.

Linda 'Ma' Mosher 1943 - 2025

The memories come flooding back in waves, drowning me in a tide of emotion.

I was in 9th grade, following Steven around like a bunny, and there was Ma, shaking her head and saying, “Why do the smart girls always fall for the bad boys?”

In 10th grade, she taught us how to research—and gave me a failing grade on a paper. It forced my parents to let me go to the library, and in that way, she opened up a whole new world to me, far beyond the constraints of the religion I was being raised in.

In my senior year, I remember her piling eight of us kids into her Ford Escort to take us to see A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

She always seemed to just know. When I was 16, graduating from high school and dreading the future my parents had planned for me, she signed my yearbook, “Don’t ever take the easy way out.”

She was always there for me, especially when my brother couldn’t be.
My brother and I were both so… broken.

When my son was two and I had to have surgery on a Workers’ Comp injury (with no income coming in) she filled my refrigerator. When my son was seven, she realized I hadn’t bought clothes for myself in years. Things were getting threadbare, and she helped me get a few things so I didn’t look quite so ragamuffin at work.

She taught me how to write.
How to read with feeling.
How to survive when I knew that leaving my family was the only way I could truly live.

She healed my heart more times than I can count. Even knowing there would be scars, she gave me reasons to keep going.

I once told her I could never repay everything she’d done for me.
She said I could, by paying it forward. That’s what she wanted.

When I finally went back to school and earned my Master’s in Education, I don’t think anyone was prouder than she was. And when I joined Mensa? She made me see that the only one who ever doubted my intelligence was me.

She gave me parenting advice.
Life advice.
She was more of a mother to me than my own.

She never yelled, never demeaned, never overly criticized. She appealed to my intellect. She taught me that it’s not just okay, it’s essential to think for myself, to question everything, and to never settle for less when I’m capable of more.

She loved my son.
From the time he could talk, he always called her “Mommy’s Teacher.”
She used to joke about it:
“When I die, they’re going to ask him, ‘Who passed away?’ and he’s going to say, ‘Mommy’s Teacher.’
And they’ll ask, ‘What was her name?’
And he’ll look at them like they’re crazy and say, ‘Mommy’s Teacher!’”

She passed away today, and there’s a gaping hole where my heart should be.
I know I’ll have to stop crying eventually.
But not today.
And probably not tomorrow.

Linda “Ma” Mosher, you are loved more than you ever knew.
To some, you were just their English teacher.
To me, you were who I wanted to be when I grew up.

The stars will shine brighter now that you’re among them.

7th Heaven by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

I was in the mood for a little murder and mayhem (as one is, from time to time), and 7th Heaven was next up in the Women’s Murder Club series—so it was an easy choice. Right from page one, the book delivers: a home invasion, a murder, and arson all rolled into one. I didn’t even have time to catch my breath, which, honestly, was exactly what I needed.

There are two major cases in this book. One involves a series of arson murders, and the other a missing teenager with a court trial that had me rolling my eyes. While I appreciated the twist—a whole trial for someone who turns out to be not dead—my jaw hit the floor in disbelief. I didn’t see it coming, but I also didn’t totally buy it. No body, no DNA, no murder weapon… and yet they pushed forward with a murder charge? I don’t know which DA office that came from, but they’ve got some explaining to do.

The arson case, on the other hand, was gripping. Creepy, senseless, and devastating, classic Patterson villains at work. And once again, Lindsay holds everything together. She’s my favorite for a reason: smart, flawed, doing an impossible job in a world that doesn’t make it easy. She’s strong and human, and if she were really human, I would admire the heck out of her.

Patterson’s signature short chapters and quick pace kept things moving. I love how the story shifts perspectives without ever feeling disjointed. He doesn’t jump between ten different timelines or go so far back into a character’s childhood that I forget why we’re here in the first place. It’s clean, fast storytelling that I can count on when I need a good jolt of suspense.

That said, while I enjoyed 7th Heaven and tore through it pretty quickly, it’s not one I’d re-read. It gets a solid 4 out of 5 from me. If you’re new to the Women’s Murder Club series, though, maybe start a little earlier—this one hits better when you already know the crew.

The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden

 

The latest pick for my book club (The Mani-Scripts—we bonded over manicures and manic reading habits), The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden was an absolute win. I’ve read The Teacher, so I already knew McFadden could spin a thriller like nobody’s business, but this one had me second-guessing myself all the way to 2 a.m.

What I love about McFadden is that she doesn’t throw in fifty characters and expect me to keep track of them like some twisted literary Sudoku. She keeps the cast manageable and just shady enough to make everyone seem guilty.

Sydney, our main character, is single and bravely online dating, which is kind of like volunteering to get food poisoning repeatedly but with more ghosting and awkward coffee. She meets Tom, who’s either a sweetheart with a childhood crush or a future Netflix documentary subject. I wasn’t sure. Then we’ve got Slug, Tom’s creepy-crawly-loving friend. If someone’s stalking you and keeps a pet cockroach, you’re allowed to suspect them. I don’t make the rules.

Daisy and Allison are classic frenemies with secrets. Gretchen, the other girlfriend-turned-bestie, is shady with a capital S. And then there’s Randy the Super, who might be a peeping Tom, actual Tom, or Slug in disguise. Jake, Sydney’s ex-boyfriend detective, rounds out the cast with a broody side order of regret.

I suspected every single one of them at some point. Freida McFadden played me like a fiddle, and I loved every twisty second. I had no idea where it was going, but I absolutely needed to find out, even if it meant losing sleep.

Highly recommend to psychological thriller lovers who like their stories fast, twisty, and filled with red herrings. This one gets a solid 5 out of 5 from me.

Her Last Breath by Linda Castillo (Burkholder #5)

Her Last Breath by Linda Castillo had me hooked from the first chapter—and by the time I got to the end, my jaw was practically on the floor. You’d think after a few of these Kate Burkholder books, I’d start catching on, but nope. This one snuck up on me with a twist I absolutely did not see coming. Not even a hint of suspicion.

It starts with what looks like a tragic hit-and-run involving an Amish family, but (as usual) there’s more going on under the surface. Kate dives into the investigation, and things get darker, twistier, and a little more personal. I couldn’t flip the pages fast enough.

Linda Castillo delivers again: Great pacing, compelling characters, and an ending that made me sit there blinking like what just happened?!

The Becoming by Nora Patterson (Dragon Heart Legacy #2)

It wasn't as light on the sweaty romance as the first one, but I made it through. Romantic Fantasy isn’t usually my jam, but it’s June, I’m a teacher, and my brain has officially filed for summer break. In other words: bring on the elves.

The plot was fine, if a bit stretched. I honestly think she could’ve wrapped it all up in this book instead of dragging it into a third. But I’ve come this far, so I’ll finish the series. Eventually. Preferably with snacks and air conditioning.

The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose

This book was everywhere. I can’t even count how many people told me I “had” to read it. When that many people agree on a book, it either means it’s truly great… or the result of an elaborate group hoax. I’m happy to report it’s the former. The hype was totally justified.

From the jump, I thought Sarah was just a high-powered defense attorney doing what she had to do to make it in a male-dominated world. Meanwhile, Adam... Let’s just say he needed to quit whining, stop playing tortured writer, and maybe remember the whole don’t cheat on your wife part of his marriage vows.

I didn’t really root for either of them. I just wanted to know who the biggest liar was. Sarah’s a lawyer, so naturally I didn’t trust her (I’ve seen enough true crime docs to know better), and Adam was… well, let’s just say not exactly husband-of-the-year material.

The dual POV kept the pacing snappy and the suspense dialed up to full. I read it in one sitting, stopping only for caffeine and the occasional bathroom break. Every time Adam made a move, I was just waiting for him to mess it up. Again.

There were clues, misleads, and enough sketchy side characters to keep me guessing, but that last chapter blew my mind. I never saw it coming. You could’ve knocked me over with a feather. Even the Sheriff, who I knew was somehow going to turn out shady, surprised me in the end.

The courtroom scenes were tight and well-written. No “Objection!” drama like on TV, but the legal tension added a nice edge and a real-time crunch that made it impossible for me to put down.

Let’s be clear: there is no such thing as The Perfect Marriage, and this book proves it in spades. Misleading title? Absolutely. But that’s part of the fun.

If you love psychological thrillers with twists that punch you in the gut, this is one you need to read. Trust the hype. Just don’t trust any of the characters.

Fearless Fourteen - Janet Evanovich

Years ago, I used to hang out with my friend Rick, and weird things always happened. One time we were at some restaurant on Route 5 (don’t ask me where—I wasn’t driving), and a Christmas wreath jumped off the wall and landed right in my dinner. No warning. Just—plop. Stuff like that happened to us all the time.

That’s exactly what reading Fearless Fourteen felt like. Stephanie Plum is basically the book version of that chaos. She's not graceful, she's not coordinated, but she’s got heart and a knack for getting into trouble for what feels like good reasons at the time. Whether she’s hauling in skips, dodging explosions, or juggling two very different men, Stephanie somehow always manages to land on her feet (usually while something’s on fire nearby).

This one was light on the romance, which I appreciated—because I’m not a fan of pages and pages of steamy scenes. What it was heavy on? Laughs. Real, full-body, ugly-laughing laughs. Grandma Mazur is in fine form, Mooner is out there living his best cosmic life, and the whole gang is back with their usual blend of disaster and loyalty.

Honestly, I need to read more Evanovich, especially this time of year, when the end-of-school madness sets in, the kids go full gremlin, and I start to remember why teachers drink.

Highly recommended if your life needs a little laughter and a lot of lightly criminal mischief.

Jack in a Box by Diane Capri

I’m sticking with it—but barely. Jack in a Box is another short installment in the Hunt for Reacher series, and while it hints that we’re inching closer to finally seeing Reacher himself—or at least finding out why anyone’s so desperate for a file on him—we’re still not there yet. Truth be told, I’m not crazy about this series. The premise has potential, but the execution never quite lands for me. That said, I’ve only got two more to go. At this point, it’s less about enjoyment and more about finishing what I started.

Holy Ghost by John Sandford

Sometimes, you pick up a book because it calls to you. Other times, you pick one because it begins with the right letter. Holy Ghost by John Sandford was an “H” book for my Alphabet Challenge, but it turned out to be a solid win all around.

This was my first Virgil Flowers book (I think)—though not my first Sandford. I think I’ve met one of his other main characters before, but can’t quite place which. Either way, Holy Ghost worked perfectly as a standalone. No need for homework or flipping back to earlier books in the series.

It’s casual, funny, and just suspenseful enough to keep me interested without demanding my full mental energy during the end-of-school chaos. It reads like regular people—quirky, nosy, slightly chaotic—are solving crimes, not some elite squad with cop jargon that sounds like they’re speaking in acronyms and Morse code. That’s a big part of the charm.

The story starts with a hoax (a Virgin Mary sighting with a bad Spanish recording), and slowly builds into a genuine murder mystery that takes its time pulling you in. Sandford keeps things moving by introducing new characters as Virgil Flowers settles into the town, poking around, asking questions, and navigating the bizarre charm of small-town life.

The town is a total highlight. The restaurant serves inedible food, so the convenient store sells potpies and offers the use of a community microwave. It's run by two guys who somehow end up being crucial to solving the case. Try pulling that off in downtown Chicago.

Character-wise, Skinner stood out for me—a whip-smart kid who goes to school when he feels like it and is always quietly calculating. Loved him. The whole cast is a quirky grab bag of people you could absolutely imagine meeting at the local diner or sitting next to at a town meeting about potholes.

By the end, Sandford ties everything up with a neat little bow. No loose ends, no confusing twists left unexplained—just a solid finish that made me want to grab the next Virgil Flowers book.

If you like crime fiction that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers a smart mystery, this one’s for you. It’s light enough to pick up and put down, but engaging enough that you’ll want to keep turning pages. Bonus: no gritty cop drama or heavy procedural stuff to wade through. Just a good story with good characters—and a potpie plot-let.

Love Overboard by Janet Evanovich

I’m not a fan of mushy gushy romance. In fact, I’m fully prepared to skip entire chapters if things start getting too steamy. But I am a huge fan of Janet Evanovich’s humor, so I picked up Love Overboard, mostly because I needed a book with a pink cover for one of my book journal challenges, and typically psychological thrillers don't come with pink covers.

Totally worth it.

This book was light-hearted, ridiculous fun. Parts of it had me actually laughing out loud. Stephanie is forever getting herself into trouble, whether she’s rolling uncontrollably down a hill or cooking a questionable pot of fish chowder. The romance? Skimmable. The laughs? Solid.

If you need something quick, funny, and a little chaotic, this one delivers. Just maybe read it somewhere people won’t judge you for laughing to yourself.

An Evil Heart by Linda Castillo (Burkholder #15)

I had to look up what number this is in the Kate Burkholder series. Frankly, it doesn’t matter. If Linda Castillo writes it, I’m reading it. Ever since Sworn to Silence, I’ve been hooked like an Amish quilt at a county fair.

As usual, Castillo lures you in with peaceful scenery—gentle rain, a bike ride, maybe even a rainbow or two—and then BAM! Someone gets shot in the chest with a crossbow. A crossbow, folks. Talk about putting the "what just happened?!" in your mystery. The victim? A young Amish man, just biking to work, minding his own business. Or so we’re led to believe...

This book hit a slightly more reflective note for Kate. She’s still sharp as ever, but with her wedding approaching, she’s pausing a bit more. It worked. It gave depth to her character and reminded me that behind the badge is someone still piecing together her place between two worlds.

A highlight for me was Bishop Troyer showing up for Kate’s wedding. If you know anything about shunning in the Amish community, you know how big of a deal that is. It made me unexpectedly proud of a fictional bishop. That's the magic of Castillo—she makes these characters real.

Now, let’s talk victim. I won’t spoil anything, but my sympathy level plummeted faster than a buggy on a downhill slope. Turns out, not every tragedy is tragic once the full story unravels. The motive? Completely believable. Drugs, alcohol, and a questionable moral compass are a bloodbath waiting to happen.

I teared up during the wedding prep scenes. Kate’s memories of her mother’s saying—"A marriage may be made in heaven, but man is responsible for the wedding"—touched me more than I expected. Especially when your wedding village has to churn butter and sew dresses without electricity. My idea of a rustic wedding is running low on ice cubes, so hats off to Kate.

Pacing-wise, Castillo nailed it again. It moved fast enough to keep me flipping pages but not so fast that I had to call in because 'the cat unplugged my alarm clock'.

One of Castillo’s greatest strengths is how she weaves the English and Amish worlds together. They stay distinct, but the overlap feels real, sometimes uncomfortable, and always compelling.

Bottom line: If you’re a fan of the series, An Evil Heart is another strong entry. If you’re new, do yourself a favor and start with Sworn to Silence. Trust me, it’s a wild and wonderful ride through Painters Mill.

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton

I read this for a challenge and, trust me, it was a challenge. Time loops, body swaps, and a murder at a crumbling estate—sounds cool, right? Yeah… no. I got halfway through and started skimming the right-hand pages just to make it to the end. It was weird, confusing, and honestly not my cup of tea. But hey, at least now I can say I survived Evelyn Hardcastle.

Shamed by Linda Castillo (Burkkholder #11)

Years ago, I read the first three books in the Kate Burkholder series and really enjoyed them—so much so that I was genuinely disappointed when there were only three. Fast-forward several years and hundreds of other books later, and I’d basically forgotten about the series. Until recently, that is, when I was squirreling around thriftbooks.com (as one does) and spotted Shamed. The title rang a bell. I remembered Sworn to Silence and how much I loved it, so I hit “buy” faster than a small-town cop chasing a lead.

It showed up two days ago. I set it on the couch, which—as any bookworm knows—is the universal sign for “you’re up next.” I started reading… and forgot to eat breakfast. (Priorities.)

This book hooked me from the beginning. It opens with a grandmother gathering black walnuts on a cool November day with her grandkids—sounds wholesome, right? Nope. BAM! Murder. Brutal murder. Then a kidnapping. Then trauma. Page-turning chaos, and I was in.

Kate Burkholder is still every bit the capable, intuitive Chief of Police I remembered, but it seems she gets a lot less resistance from the Amish than in earlier books. Either she’s earned their trust over the years, or I missed a whole chunk of growth while I was off reading other series. Either way, I need to backtrack and fill in the gaps. (There are seventeen books now. Seventeen! Happy dance.)

The Amish setting still adds an extra layer of complexity, especially for those of us who grew up in strict religious settings. I’m familiar with being “under bann”—the Amish equivalent of being kicked out of the cool kids’ table for eternity—and the idea that cooperation with law enforcement might conflict with religious values. Castillo gets those nuances right.

Oh, and one twist in particular floored me—Cohen’s Syndrome is real. Given the insularity of some religious communities, it makes sense genetically, but it still made me pause and Google. (I love when fiction nudges me into a mini research rabbit hole.)

The pacing? I blinked and it was lunchtime. Somewhere in Kentucky. I don’t even live near Kentucky.

Shamed is an absolute must-read. It had me flipping pages like a caffeine-fueled detective, and yes, I would re-read it. I’m even recommending it to the same person who first told me about Sworn to Silence. Full circle. 

I've Got My Eyes On You by Mary Higgins Clark

I love how Mary Higgins Clark writes. Her words play like a movie in my head—vivid, sharp, and suspenseful. She doesn’t ease you into a story; she grabs your hand and pulls you straight into the darkness. I can picture every character—what they’re doing, how they’re living—whether they’re innocent or hiding something sinister. And one thing you can count on? There’s always a plot twist. Always.

Every now and then, I get a craving—not for chocolate or French fries, but for something darker. Something with suspense, a little murder, and a twist I’ll never see coming. So there I was, scrolling through my Nook library like a woman on a mission, when I stumbled across I've Got My Eyes on You. Apparently, I’d bought it a while ago and promptly forgot about it. Past me made an excellent decision. Present me is very grateful.

From the first page, I was hooked—because that’s what Mary Higgins Clark does best. This time, the murder victim is a teenage girl named Kerry Dowling. And let’s be honest—teenagers don’t just have drama; they are drama. Kerry was no exception. I wanted to sit her down and give her a good talking-to. If your boyfriend is that possessive, girl, show him the curb. Your future self will thank you.

Enter Aline Moreland, the guidance counselor just trying to do her job without getting dragged into another school scandal. I loved her immediately. She’s smart, composed, and cautious for all the right reasons—especially when it comes to Detective Mike Wilson. He’s intelligent, empathetic, and not easily fooled. There's some light romantic tension between them, but don’t worry—this is classic Mary Higgins Clark. No steamy scenes, just well-crafted suspense and crisp storytelling.

And of course, I thought I had the killer pegged. I was sure it was the tow truck driver. Would’ve bet my life savings. Then another character started showing up like a bad penny, and I was suddenly suspicious of everyone. Clark got me again. She always does.

What really stood out was how she wrote Jamie—a young man with special needs who witnessed something crucial. Aline’s gentle way of helping him recall what he saw felt so genuine. Clark clearly did her research, and it shows in the sensitivity and care she gave those scenes.

The pacing? Spot on. It starts with a bang and only picks up speed. At one point, I had dinner on the stove but couldn’t stop reading. That dinner? Burned to a crisp. Worth the screaming smoke detectors. I turned off the stove, pulled the alarm batteries and opened the windows - and immediately want back to finishing the book.

If you enjoy suspense, believable characters, and twisty mysteries that keep you guessing until the very end, I’ve Got My Eyes on You should definitely make your list. Then again, anything by Mary Higgins Clark should. She writes stories that linger—books that leave you feeling like something in your world just shifted, even if only a little.

Deadlock by Catherine Coulter

I picked up Deadlock completely by accident while looking for Backfire by Catherine Coulter on my library app. Since Backfire wasn’t available, I figured I’d give another one of her books a try—and I’m glad I did. Now Backfire is officially on hold, and I’ve got another author to keep my “murder and mayhem” shelf in business.

This one pulled me in right away. The villainous Marsia Gay gives off major “evil to the core” vibes from the get-go, and even though I hadn’t read a single Coulter book before this, I could tell Savich was one of the good guys. Marsia, who’s understandably bitter about Savich putting her behind bars, decides to repay him by going full psycho—think: arson, threats, and targeting his family. As you do.

There are two main cases in the book: Marsia’s revenge plot and something called “The Big Take,” involving a congressman’s missing granddaughter and a whole family dynamic that redefines the word dysfunctional. While both stories were compelling, I found myself more drawn to the revenge arc—probably because it felt more personal and, well, dramatically unhinged in the best way.

Savich and Sherlock make an adorable crime-fighting couple. I’m honestly thinking about going back to the beginning of the series just to see how their story started. Deadlock had just the right blend of crime, a smidge of romance (seriously, just a smidge—any more and I start flipping pages), and a perfectly measured dose of crazy.

Pippa was a standout new character for me. I don’t know if she’s appeared in other books, but I liked her grit, smarts, and willingness to take risks. Also, I had a feeling the sweet B&B grandma who bakes oatmeal cookies was up to no good. She gave me those “behind-the-doilies” bad vibes, and I was not wrong. I love when my instincts are rewarded like that.

The pacing? Perfect. I tore through 300+ pages in one day and wrapped it up the next. The balance between the personal drama and the investigative work was spot-on—not so much procedure that my eyes glazed over, but just enough to keep things grounded. As for the girl chasing after Chief Wilde... girl, no. That man was not into you. Move along.

Overall, Deadlock is a solid read. Not a re-read-for-life kind of book, but definitely one I’d recommend—even to someone new to the series. It works well as a standalone, delivers the goods, and lets you sleep at night. That’s a win in my book.

6th Target by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

After accidentally reading a romance novel when I was in the mood for a murder (honestly, how does that even happen?), I turned to a reliable cure: James Patterson and a strong cup of coffee. The 6th Target is the next installment in the Women’s Murder Club series, and I dove in like it was crime scene tape and I had a badge.

This book juggles three big cases at once—because apparently, Patterson and Paetro believe in multitasking with maximum mayhem. We’ve got a mass shooting on a ferry (which hits hard—especially for those of us who do active shooter drills every year), murders in Cindy’s apartment building (honestly, I’ve had a few neighbors where this wouldn't surprise me), and kidnappings of children with murdered nannies (which, oddly, got the least page time).

Each case ties in a different member of the Club: Claire gets shot (but is okay!), Yuki brings the shooter to court, Cindy is dodging homicide in her hallway, and Lindsay is putting in overtime like she’s collecting detective badges on commission. Speaking of Lindsay, she’s still the same smart, capable woman we’ve come to appreciate—just a little more self-assured this time around. You love to see the growth.

The pacing? Classic Patterson: short chapters, fast plot, no time to blink. There wasn’t a single section I felt the urge to skip, and the courtroom scenes were actually fun to read—made me think I might need to revisit a John Grisham book sometime soon.

Now, not everything was perfect. The kidnapping storyline could’ve been its own book, but instead it got the “oh yeah, we solved that too” treatment. Also, Claire’s son Willie is briefly introduced as a kid with guts (he went after the shooter!), but then... nothing. Missed opportunity, in my opinion.

In short: I liked it. Maybe not as much as the last couple in the series, but it scratched my murder mystery itch, gave me just enough courtroom drama, and didn’t ask me to suffer through a single breathless love scene. Four stars, and I’m still Team Women’s Murder Club all the way—though I do still miss Jill.

Some books bring the heat—this one brought body bags, bullet wounds, and courtroom drama. Just how I like it.

Blood Moon by Sandra Brown

I picked up Blood Moon because of the title. We had a couple this year, and I thought, “Cool—serial killer meets celestial phenomenon. Let’s go!” Unfortunately, the killer wasn’t the only one getting...active.

Let’s talk about Molly. I liked her. She’s got spunk, resilience, and the kind of attitude that says, “Sure, I’ve been kidnapped by a lunatic, but I still have questions and zero time for your nonsense.” I was rooting for her—even as she waded through interactions with a man I’ve now dubbed The Killer Professor (probably tenured, definitely terrifying).

The pacing? Pretty solid. I read it quickly, skipping over the scenes where the thermostat went up but my interest went down. Sandra Brown kept the story clipping along—enough suspense to keep me engaged, but not so much that I couldn’t pause to sleep or snack.

Now for the romance. Or what I call the "insert sigh here" sections. I didn’t realize Sandra Brown was known for her steamy scenes, or I might’ve backed away slowly. As it was, I skipped ahead like I was in a choose-your-own-adventure book and all roads led away from shirtless metaphors. The romance didn’t add anything for me—in fact, it felt like someone spliced in a Harlequin chapter where a plot twist should’ve gone.

Memorable quotes or scenes? Not really. In a few weeks, I’ll probably be questioning whether I read this book at all or just hallucinated it after a long day.

Would I recommend it? If you like TMI romance and sweaty, unrealistic sex scenes with a side of murder and mayhem, Blood Moon might be your jam. For me, it was a lesson learned: check the author’s reputation before diving in. I’ll be thinking twice before picking up another Sandra Brown novel—unless she writes one called Celibate Eclipse and promises zero shirtless anything.

Marked for Revenge by Delores Fossen

I’ll be the first to admit I don’t usually go for romance novels—especially the kind where characters lose their clothes faster than they lose trust. But I wasn’t feeling great and wanted something that didn’t require a lot of brainpower. Marked for Revenge delivered exactly that: fast-paced drama, over-the-top chemistry, and a plot that doesn't ask too many questions if you don’t. I skipped the steamy scenes (because, no thanks), but the suspense thread was enough to keep me turning pages between naps. It’s not a book I’ll rave about, but it did the job.

 

The Herbs Are Planted!

And now we wait...

Digital Creativity: How Today’s Students Are Building Tomorrow’s Innovations

We’ve talked a lot about how technology is shaping education—AI in the classroom, cybersecurity, and ethical considerations. But this month, I’d like to shift the focus from what technology does to students to what students can do with technology.

Digital creativity is booming among today’s middle schoolers. Whether it’s designing a 3D model in Tinkercad, programming a video game in Scratch, or using Canva to produce a class newsletter, students aren’t just consuming technology—they’re creating with it. Tools that were once locked behind professional paywalls or steep learning curves are now browser-based, free (or nearly so), and designed with young learners in mind.

This creative shift is more than a novelty—it’s a powerful educational opportunity. When students code an animation, build a simple app, or design a virtual world in CoSpaces, they’re not just playing around; they’re engaging in problem-solving, systems thinking, storytelling, and collaboration. They’re building digital literacy, resilience, and confidence in their own ideas.

As educators, we can nurture this trend by making space for creativity in our curriculum—not just in tech classes, but across disciplines. A history teacher might let students create an animated reenactment of a historical event. An English teacher might encourage digital storybooks or AI-generated dialogue experiments. The key is to provide flexible tools and encourage exploration, not just correctness.

Of course, balance is important. Not every moment needs a screen. But when used thoughtfully, creative technology gives students something even more valuable than answers: a chance to imagine, design, and build their own. In a world increasingly shaped by innovation, these early acts of digital creation are more than fun—they’re foundational.

 

Don't Know Jack by Diane Capri

I read the entire book today, and I’m still not sure what it was about. One thing I do know? Jack Reacher had absolutely nothing to do with anything.

The main characters, FBI agents Kim Otto and Carlos Gaspar, are sent on a mission so vague that I’m not sure they even knew what they were supposed to be doing. Kim comes off as green and uncertain—she’s clearly trying her best, but she spends most of the book squinting at clues and nervously second-guessing herself. Meanwhile, Gaspar is oddly funny, oddly chill, and has the uncanny ability to nap anywhere, anytime. (Jealous, honestly.)

I went in hoping for a Jack Reacher story—or at least a trying-to-find-Jack-Reacher story. Instead, I got two agents chasing... something? Someone? Reacher is mentioned, sure. He was once in a town they were in. But if you’re looking for Reacher to show up, or for the story to have a strong connection to him? You’re out of luck.

The plot? I couldn’t tell you. I kept turning pages thinking, Okay, any second now it’ll start making sense. Spoiler: it never did. I’ve never been so confused while reading a book. Nothing stood out because everything was a blur of vague motives, secretive conversations, and cryptic assignments that never got explained.

And yet—despite myself—I’m going to read the second book. Partly out of stubbornness. Partly because I’ve already paid for the next few in the series, and I’d like them to earn their keep. If the second one doesn’t bring some clarity (and maybe a little actual Reacher), then I’m calling it.

Bottom line: If you’re a Jack Reacher fan, don’t expect this book to scratch that itch. It’s more like chasing a ghost with two agents who aren’t quite sure what they’re chasing—or why.

The Garden Is In!

I feel very accomplished. The veggies are planted, the flower beds weeded, and I even made it to Northtowns Nursery and Garden Center for a couple hanging plants for my Shepard's hook. Life is good! 

The Awakening by Nora Roberts (Dragon Heart Legacy #1)

Sometimes you want a book that challenges your worldview, expands your vocabulary, and makes you question the very fabric of reality. And sometimes... you want elves.

The Awakening by Nora Roberts falls firmly in the second category. This is not the kind of book that asks anything of you other than, “Would you like to escape to an enchanted world where everyone is hot, vaguely Irish, and capable of wielding some kind of elemental magic?” Yes. Yes, I would.

Our heroine, Breen Kelly, begins her journey in the very un-magical realm of Philadelphia, complete with a soul-sucking job, student debt, and a mother who seems to have taken “emotionally unavailable” as a personal challenge. But then – plot twist! – Breen finds out she has a secret trust fund and a mystical heritage. As one does.

Next thing you know, she's off to Ireland, where the scenery is as green as the cover art promised and the locals are suspiciously insightful. Before you can say “dramatic portal scene,” Breen stumbles into Talamh, a parallel world full of fairies, dragons, elves, and enough magical politics to require a corkboard and red string (don’t worry, you won’t need it – Nora keeps it simple).

There’s a broody love interest, of course – this is a Nora Roberts book – but the romantic content is pleasantly restrained. You will not be forced to read about 15 pages of passionate eye contact or creatively described abs. The relationship develops slowly, in between sword training, magical duels, and the occasional interdimensional skirmish.

The best way I can describe The Awakening is this: it reads like the fantasy version of a Hallmark movie, if Hallmark movies included fireballs, ancient prophecies, and a dragon. It’s cozy. It’s comforting. It’s got just enough danger to keep things spicy, but not so much that you ever fear for your emotional stability. You can absolutely read it while half-listening to the rain and wondering if it's too early to put on pajamas (spoiler: it’s not).

Perfect for fans of magical escapism, Irish scenery, and books where the heroine finally learns to stand up for herself – preferably with magical lightning.

Would I recommend it? Yes. Would I call it high fantasy? No.

But would I read the sequel while sipping cocoa and pretending my cat is a familiar? Absolutely.