Simon Latch personifies the phrase, “Down on your luck”. He is a struggling sole practitioner lawyer in a small town in Virginia with virtually no chance of making it big. His marriage is in shambles, his three children sense the problem, he is chronically short of money, he has a budding drinking problem and he gambles on sports beyond his means. The apparent solution to his money problems walks into his office one day in the form of a wealthy widow who needs a new will and an estate plan. As the book progresses we learn all is not as it seems with regard to the widow and it appears Simon is in for another major disappointment. Then the widow suddenly dies. It is determined she was poisoned and Simon is the logical murder suspect.It is at this point the book differs from most Grisham novels in that the trial is not the focal point of the story. Rather Simon’s search for the real killer is. This search involves Simon seeking help from old friends in the FBI, hiring “consultants” familiar with the underworld and computer hackers who delve into the deepest parts of the dark web.Like most Grisham novels the book moves along at a good pace, the story is interesting and the supporting cast of characters is well drawn. The story is intriguing and believable. My only negative is Simon is a depressing character to the max as we see him dig himself deeper and deeper into one problem after another until he finally hits rock bottom. It was hard for me to read about someone who makes so many obvious bad decisions.

Another great read with many layers woven into the story. This book caused me to feel many emotions, anguish for the main character at the trial outcome and a feeling of a hopeful race to exonerate with evidence, the freeing of an innocent man.

I don’t know what the big acclaim is all about for this novel. NOTHING happens for the first half. Simon goes to lunch with Eleanor. One of her step-sons shows up. Simon & his wife are getting a divorce. The kids are typical teenagers and adolescents. Yawn. I almost quit at the 50% mark. Started skimming for the next 25%. (I hate giving up on a book!) Finally, at the 75% mark, the trial started and the pace picked up and it gained some traction. Yes – a story at last! The verdict was unexpected, after all the red herrings regarding how the prosecution was not proving its case from Simon’s lawyers point of view.Then the real plot began, IMO. Hunting down the real killer was actually the best part of the book. New characters were introduced and they were actually interesting (unlike Paula and his kids).Finally, the denouement, and my opinion of The Widow rose from 2 stars to 3.5 (not rounding up, however, as it was too much effort to get to the last 25%). But the overall pace and storyline was dull and uninteresting.

John Grisham is one of the best writers of all times. I have every one of his books. I started reading his books a very long time ago starting with A Time To Kill. My husband went to school and got a Masters. I told him he should read some of his books he told me I’ve read enough while I was in school I’m done reading. I begged him to read The Reckoning I was sure he’d love it but it was a no go for him. He has watched all of his movies and absolutely loved them. I’ve tried to get The Reckoning on tape but not have been able to it’s alway gone. One day I know I’ll find it. I can’t wait for him to hear it. I started reading it and was done on the second day. John don’t ever quit writing. I’ve had so many people ask if I will leave my books to them when I pass away. I just tell them get in line. Thank you for such wonderful memories from each and everyone of your books. Thank you. Barbara

John Grisham’s newest novel. I just finished it, and it’s a great read. It keeps you in suspense till the very end. It’s about a small town lawyer who takes on an estate case of an 85 year old woman. As is usually the case with his books, it’s filled with references about what lawyers do in court, so if you are a lawyer, you’ll really love this book.

This is a stunner, perhaps the best DB book since The Da Vinci Code.My philosophy of reviewing is that it involves three questions. What did the author set out to do? Did the author accomplish that? Was it worth doing? In the case of DB we have a specific kind of book. It has a pile-driver plot. It has interesting characters but it is not really character-driven. It is popular fiction. In addition to plot its long suits are setting and subject matter. Here we are largely in Prague, with momentary side trips to New York City.The title refers to consciousness (Langdon’s girlfriend Katherine has written a book on the subject). Consciousness is indeed the most challenging element of brain science and it includes both scientific and spiritual dimensions of immense importance. In the novel the plot is advanced by the principal fact that Katherine Solomon’s book on the subject keeps disappearing; someone does not want this book to hit the booksellers’ shelves. Who? Why?DB writes this story with a hand tied behind his back. He requires that the science all be right (this may make it somewhat fanciful, but not science fiction) and that the setting (also something strange and almost mystical) be rendered faithfully and honestly.Bottom line: this is the kind of writing which requires enormous planning and research. At the same time it must be intelligible to a broad range of readers and it must be plausible.The book succeeds on all counts. It is both the ultimate popular read and something with fascinating and important scientific/spiritual content.It is, unmistakably, a ‘Dan Brown book’. It is not Dostoevsky; nor was it meant to be. Those who write condescending reviews of it should themselves attempt to write such a book and they should be reminded that readers can enjoy and admire a wide range of genres and styles. (Yes, I wrote this review after reading a snooty review by an individual who probably longs for an audience as wide as DB’s. And, yes, there is also some puritanism at work there. Great 18thc readers like Addison and Samuel Johnson knew that ‘honest pleasure’—the kind that will neither send you to prison nor to hell—was a great desideratum in our culture, a lesson that is often lost on those who consider such pleasure beneath them.)

“For years, Dr. Brigita Gessner had derided her patients’ claims of returning from the brink of death. Now she found herself praying that she could join the ranks of those rare souls who had danced to the edge of oblivion, peered into the abyss, and somehow stepped back from the precipice.‘I can’t die… I have to warn the others.’But she knew it was too late.’So ends the Prologue, which makes you eager to read more.Robert Langdon is in Prague for a lecture series. He’s gotten close to another speaker, Dr. Katherine Solomon, a “noetic scientist,” the study of human consciousness. As in, for one thing, you can’t have an after-life experience if you don’t have consciousness outside of your body. At least that’s one theory.This book also gives you a golem, lots of chase scenes, and a very bad bad guy.I would not recommend reading a second Dan Brown title right after reading a first one. The plot set-ups are so similar you’d think you were reading the same novel. But with sufficient time between books (and assuming you’re reading other books in between), Dan Brown delivers a fast-paced story and, the best part for me, he is chock-full of interesting information.For example, “Secret of Secrets” brings in muscle memory, sudden savant syndrome, precognition, halos, and desert mirages. But the main arguments are for and about non-local consciousness. The YOU that makes you YOU, is not just beyond your body. It is everywhere.You’ll need to read the book for the details. But, as Brown writes in a blurb before the Prologue (see picture), the science described in the book is real. More chillingly, the experiments are real.4 stars. I knocked one off as there was occasionally a bit of drag in the action, and the protagonist (in a monk’s habit of course) seemed a bit of caricature. Though not perfect, this was a fun read.Happy Reader

The long awaited new Robert Langdon is here and this was the wildest ride yet. Full of action and adventure, plot twists and turns, it took me a while to read — my life kept interrupting — but baby, it was worth it.The confirmed bachelor, Robert Langdon, has begun a romance with Dr. Katherine Solomon, an old friend and colleague who’s been a teasing “will they or won’t they” relationship. The two have finally jumped into the will they category, with Langdon coming with her to Prague to cheer her on with a speaking engagement about “Noetic Science” and “NonLocal Consciousness”. And that’s when it all goes to hell. Solomon’s new manuscript is on the edge of blowing the lid off what we think our reality is. But someone doesn’t want it published. And they’re not afraid to kill to keep that from happening.I truly got swept up in this book. Once again, Dan Brown proves he’s the man when it comes to potboilers and thrillers. These characters are vivid and sometimes scary. And if the subject is anywhere near reality of our modern world, we are well and truly screwed by the whole discussion and debate of AI and….well, I won’t finish the sentence because that would be giving too much away. You want to find out? You’ll have to read the book.I give Dan Brown’s latest Robert Langdon novel, The Secret of Secrets a solid 5 starts. Personally, I’d give it a full 10 out of 5 if I could. It’s brilliant, tense, and a great read.

Suspenseful, twisty read. Packs an emotional punch. Keeps u hooked till the end. Complex, layered, interesting characters. A really enjoyable read!

Overall, an entertaining and creative storyline. I’ve never read anything by Harlan Coben. Of course, I wanted to read Gone Before Goodbye because of Reese Witherspoon. I liked that there’s a lot of dialogue. I had trouble connecting with the characters though and some of the writing and plot points seemed too ‘new age’ to me (ex. the use of the word zen, the use of AI apps), there was a lot of descriptive focus on “rich” things (art, wine, decor, etc.) for my taste. The main character didn’t seem authentic to a highly trained military surgeon, in my opinion. While I thought the story was copacetic, I’m having trouble putting my finger on exactly why I didn’t connect with the story or the characters. It felt distant and disingenuous. I started on audio, but felt it was too dramatized so I switched to the physical book and liked it better. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars rounded up to 4 for Goodreads. I’d be interested to read more by Reese if she continues writing in the thriller/mystery category.

Maggie McCabe is a well known physician for restorative surgery but has lost her license. She is offered a deal too good to be true. She also wonders if her husband Marc, a well known surgeon for humanitarian purposes. Trace Paker was the third surgeon in their group. Trace was considered missing and after Maggie’ s surgery she had the opportunity to track down Trace. Porkchop, Maggie’s father in law, finds Maggie in Dubai and rescues her and takes her to France. That’s when things turn around. This book is a definite must read. Follow Maggie McCabe to find out the truth.

A wonderful read. But I agree with Shazan’s review which follows:”Fabulous book until the epilogue which ruined the whole thing for meReviewed in Australia on October 22, 2025I was unable to put this book down. A wide variety of characters and some information that had me googling to broaden my medical knowledge. It had me guessing, thinking I knew the outcome, then having to rethink. But the ending did not make sense to me, and that actually ruins a good book. Read it for yourself because it is a terrific story, but be prepared for confusion and loose ends not tied.I just didn’t get tbe end either!

This was an excellent book, one of my favorites, you really have to follow it towards the end. It had a lot of twists that I did not see coming. It was a great story line. I think people have been a little hard in their reviews. Good job Reese, with your first book

1. I liked the story. It may have been a bit convoluted at times but it kept me guessing and was enjoyable to listen to.2.I don’t mind an audible book where there is a woman and a man reading but I’m not sure I like listening to so many voices.Overall I liked the story and found it entertaining.

I read this book and immediately ordered copies for my sisters so I’d have someone to obsess over it with!! This is such a suspenseful, thrilling and surprising read. I did not see the twists coming! Maggie McCabe is an incredibly strong main character and I am dying to see what she does next!

Brilliant plastic surgeon Maggie McCabe once had it all: a loving, equally brilliant husband and a stellar career filled with purpose and meaning. But that was then and this is now — a singularly depressing now, lacking in family (except for her off-the-charts genius of a sister) and swamped by litigation and debt. And then a “white knight,” the professor who was her mentor in medical school, comes to her with a unique, albeit mysterious, proposal that will make most of her problems disappear. Soon, she finds herself aboard the most luxurious of private jets, winging her way to an undisclosed location, which turns out to be … well … to say more might spoil it for you.Actress/book lover Reese Witherspoon and author Harlan Coben have teamed up to produce a very entertaining novel filled with mystery, suspense, and plenty of twists and turns. The characters may not be as deeply drawn as in a literary novel, but they are likable and compelling enough for readers to care what happens to them. The plotting is designed to keep readers turning the pages, seeking answers to the questions skillfully planted by Ms. Witherspoon and Mr. Coban. They’ve even managed to incorporate some interesting tech ideas, not to mention some humor, into their tale. At times, I was reminded of the works of Alfred Hitchcock, Michael Crichton, and Robin Cook.All in all, a very enjoyable reading experience.

I was not a great fan of MC’s NIGHTSHADE, but I was delighted to see this comeback. THE PROVING GROUND is not just one of MC’s best Lincoln Lawyer novels, it is one of his best novels. Period. Full Stop.The subject could not be more current and relevant to our cultural challenges. (A similar court case was being reported on the national news just as I was returning to read the novel.) A lonely and lost teenager engages with an AI chatbot who encourages him to commit murder. His victim’s mother and his own parents hire Mickey to sue the tech company in civil court, where he faces two legal adversaries, a set of obnoxious brothers.The story basically consists of the entire trial process, with a small subplot concerning Mickey’s attempt to have a dying, innocent man released from prison so that he can end his days with his beloved daughter.The usual elements are all in place: MC’s total command of the California setting, an array of interesting characters, occupying all points on the loveable-to-evil spectrum and a riveting plot with twists and turns aplenty. The dazzling element, however, is the ‘knowledge’ segment—the author’s ability to know and depict the details of a complex subject (in this case, two subjects, the world of AI and the world of the modern courtroom). MC enjoys a large and highly-skilled research team but the bottom line is that he must put the whole shebang together and utilize the numerous factual elements to help shape a complex but fully intelligible plot, without the convoluted, opaque story lines which are, unfortunately, all too common in today’s fiction and films/tv series.Parenthetically, it is a common complaint that we have a supply/demand problem with courtroom drama. We want more of it but there is very little on offer. Thank the Lord for MC and Mickey Haller. The amazing thing is that MC was originally a crime reporter, not a lawyer. His knowledge of courtroom maneuvering and, of course, the law itself, is stunning.I sometimes refer to my favorite books as ‘carry around’ books, describing them as so compelling that they never leave your hands and you seize a minute or two of reading time wherever you are and wherever you can. This is such a book.Five stars; a MC masterpiece.

What an excellent book! I’ve read all Mr Connelly’s books and amazingly they just get better and better. Plenty of courtroom drama and big personalities in this one. I love his legal staff and talented character development. This book addresses some interesting AI issues that we will all be facing in the near future. This is a “can’t miss” read.

Connelley, along with Amor Towles, is my favorite current author. I started with The Lincoln Lawyer which remains in my personal Top Ten of books. So…..I was really looking forward to this one. And I did enjoy it.The book read very well. Plus it was informative in its discussion of AI which is all the rage in investment circles these days. I must say, however, that it seemed like something was missing. After thinking about it, I think my issue was that almost the entire book was courtroom drama.Nevertheless, a Connelley with something missing is better than most other authors’ best effort.

Michael Connelly is to me, the gold standard of mystery/thriller writers. While I have enjoyed the Lincoln Lawyer books, I felt they fell a little short of the Bosch series. Not this one.The Proving Ground is excellent on all levels; story, character development, pace and intrigue. But it really stands out in two areas: the depth of understandable communication about A/I, and the detailed narrative of trial prep and procedure. To me, this book was brilliant, maybe Connelly’s best yet.

After a depressingly flat outing earlier this year, I had begun to think that Connelly was burned out. But Mickey Haller seems to bring out both the passionate lawyer and the devious trickster in him. The new Lincoln Lawyer book is up-to-the-minute as it deals, compellingly, with the dangers of artificial intelligence. A tragic subplot adds resonance to the story. Altogether, a satisfying read and a welcome return to form from one of our finest crime fiction authors.

I seldom give 5 stars to anythinjg but the most excellent of works. I rate Connelly’s novels highly but his one, even though not as edgy as the previous works in the Lincoln lawyer series, is both excellently written and highly informative. In my effort to understand AI and my increasing discomfort with it, I have read several articles on it. I remained confused. Perhaps because Connelly is also a journalist who realizes his audience needs to understand what he is saying, the sections about the technology of AI are both simply written and highly informagtive. He has made me understand far better than I had in the past.As for the plot? Believable, nuanced, and, as always, highly readable.

A solid effort in a most difficult arena. First ten percent of the book are a bit slow, but don’t dismiss the storyline in this book and the way it plays itself out. It is a superbly written book with a very important message for all of mankind….and the author makes his characters human in a way I’ve never experienced in a novel,. Well done, and with some very important issues the world needs to grapple with as this new AI becomes more and more important in, like it or not, each of our lives!

This is the second book by Freida McFadden that I’ve read. The plot of the first book, The Intruder, had a twist I never saw coming. However, The Tenant, had me talking to my kindle the way you speak to the characters in a movie.Thank you McFadden. It is comforting not to be able to accurately predict the outcome. You pulled ALL my emotions to the forefront in this one.Next

I really liked it. I just didn’t LOVE it so couldn’t see giving it five stars as I do for books I love. Was a good read for waiting in doctor’s office and such. Easy to pick up and put down without losing sight of plot. It was engaging enough to hold my interest but not so much as to be disappointed when it ended. I give it great credit for my NOT figuring out the truth until the very end.

This is the first 3 star I have ever given Frieda McFadden. I didn’t think I would ever give her less than 4 stars. I guess I just couldn’t really get in to this one. This is the first book of hers that I didn’t start and finish within 24 hours. many I have finished in 1/2 day or less!To begin with I didn’t like the characters.Krista was not convincing at all at being loyal and that should have been a red flag to Blake right away.Blake was annoying with his internal dialogue about every time he saw Amanda(fake Whitney in skimpy clothes or no bra) Amanda was annoying with the parading around in the house with barely and clothes on and treating the rest of the house like it was hers considering it was very early on and she didn’t really know the couple she was renting from and the fact that she was just renting a room.I was so incredibly irritated at Blake. How could be so gullible? I am sure that I’m not the only one who has read McFadden’s books that has noticed that there is this annoying gullibility that usually causes most of the problems when it comes to the characters. There is just too much that gets let go in the first place. Too many red flags go up for me. I know this is a book but some things need to be a little more realistic. I feel that sometimes McFadden’s books rely a little TOO much on these gullible characters and it just gets to the point that we (I) need smarter characters. I guess since I have read almost all of her books I tend to see the patterns. I see when someone is being naïve and I know that more than likely they are pretending to be naïve or they are being played.spoilers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I knew there was more to Amanda/fake Whitney’s story. I figured that was what was going to come in at the end.I knew that Blake would end up going back and taking over his father’s business in the end.I knew that there was definitely something fishy about how Blake was fired and that either Krista/Whitney or Amanda/Whitney had something to do with it.I was a bit disappointed and felt like McFadden really missed a great opportunity to link the co-worker that Blake spoke of in the beginning and how he ended his life. I felt like that was just a distraction and really a waste of pages.I mean…yeah it did possibly turn your head in a different direction and make you go down a different rabbit hole…but that rabbit hole wasn’t deep. She could have linked that story in and it would have made it more interesting.As I said in the beginning….I have always finished books within a 24 hour period from the time I started the book, only putting it down for work or if life got in the way. Many times I would forgo weekly television shows just to finish up a book…only to start another one that would have me reading late into the evening. This one just wasn’t it. I found myself putting it down ever few chapters.

What if the person you love… and the stranger living under your roof… are both hiding secrets that could cost you your life?Stepping into the world of ‘The Tenant’ felt like tiptoeing through a house of mirrors – every reflection twisted, every shadow hiding another chilling secret. I couldn’t put this book down. The atmosphere? Deliciously eerie. The pacing? Lightning fast. And the tension? My heart was thumping, my hands sweating – this book is that good.What really drew me in was the terrifying premise: discovering that both the one you love and a total stranger sharing your home might be harbouring secrets deadly enough to shatter your life. With each chapter, McFadden ramped up the suspense, and my nerves were constantly on edge. I devoured page after page, desperate to unravel the tangled skein of motives and lies.The atmosphere in this novel is pitch-perfect – creeping dread mingled with electric anticipation. I was swept up by the relentless pacing and the mounting tension that pressed in from all sides. Every twist caught me off-guard; whenever I thought I’d finally pieced together the truth, McFadden spun the story in a bold new direction.There were moments I found myself muttering at the characters – why don’t they just get rid of the tenant? Only to realize nothing was as straightforward as it seemed. Trust was a dangerous currency in this book. The more I read, the more I questioned every relationship and motive, right up to the last, chilling page.By the time I reached the final chapter, I was stunned. The ending wasn’t just shocking – it was chilling. Everyone has a dark secret, and some are better left buried deep in the closet.If you’re ready for a story that will grip your heart, mess with your mind, and leave you breathless… this is the one. But be warned: once you open that door, there’s no turning back.

Okay where do I begin… Frieda really did well building the plot with part one, you start thinking you’re crazy because you’re constantly question what’s going on, when is something going to happen. But when that first plot twist unfolded !!! Baby ! It was chefs kiss! I didn’t expect that one at all. From that point, I had so many questions that were answered eventually.. but the answers/twists didn’t give the sameEnergy as that first plot twist. WhatI loved most was that finalTwist! Frieda literally will have you wrapped up in this until very last page.The last page took me out! It was funny af given everything that happened???????????? if you’re looking for thriller Frieda is your girl!

Definitely had some good twists and turns and character development.It was easy to fall into the trap of who done it at the same time Admiring and despising each of the characters on their own.

This was a good read. I was hoping Blake let the detective know what was going on. Blake was a little naive, but I’m glad he went back to help his father. I always like Freda’s books. They are intriguing.

SO good! Face paced read that I couldn’t put down. This is the first of my Freida McFadden journey and I can’t wait to read more!! Twists were unexpected! I highly recommend this read!

Yes, for me at least, Reacher is back. I enjoyed the book, I really did. Not starting to knitpick, I just couldn’t put the book down, so for me, yes, Reacher is back, and the baddies got what they deserved. Unlike a few of the latest Reacher stories where I found the violence arbitrary, this book was more measured – well by Jack Reacher’s standards anyway.

I loved this Reacher character and the complex stories about his life post military on the road. The interesting people he met. The moral dilemmas he was sucked into. But…Now that Child Senior has handed over the franchise to Child Junior, everything I loved about the stories __ especially the quality of writing and the complexity of characters and the believable nature of the intense events… is GONE. The entire book starts off weak and watered down, the people are thinly drawn cliches with no depth, and new ones pop up when an easy out to a story line is needed. Almost every single character is someone you’ve met in someone else’s story, from the dirty military contractor, to the down on his luck gambler, to the phony psychiatrist, to the “surprise! I’m a CIA agent” lady who literally pops out of a box ….I guess to try to explain a series of random events that are neither concerning nor compelling. Oh no, wait. Someone is trying to drag the US into a phony war! That’s it. This is just not a Real Reacher book. Terrible story, awful characters, stupid consequences, no depth, even Reacher himself doesn’t seem to care about it. I feel robbed. I’m mad about the time I wasted reading this and I had been looking forward to it having raced through the previous books. I’m mad about the cost. And I’m mad at the original author who has bequeathed this franchise to his nepo baby …..who doesn’t have the talent to carry on. Don’t waste your time. Reacher is dead.

I’ve read every Reacher book since I binged the first five while sick and could only lay down and read for several days. If this had been the first book I read, I would have moved on and not read a second. Maybe I am mis-remembering but it feels wrong the amount of kills Reacher racked up that seemed purposefully. Severely injure? Yes. Purposefully kill when no longer threatened? I don’t remember him as that much of an anti-hero until the new writer took over. I liked Lee’s writing style. I liked how succinct Lee’s style was. Always straight the point. This version I was skipping over paragraphs of over explaining. Reacher has always been a man of few words too but this version seems to discuss in much more detail. It’s been over 10 years since I read the early books, I may go back and reread just to get a feel for the original character again. Overall wouldn’t recommend the book or story whether it was Reacher or another character. I didn’t feel for any of the characters in the story and none seemed worth helping. I wouldn’t root for this Reacher. I thought Reacher got pulled into these things because he fought for the underdog getting bullied or witnessed something so wrong he couldn’t let it stand. I didn’t feel the beginning of this would have drawn Reacher in. And subplot with the cabs? Why was that included? Overall just not good storytelling IMO

I think Andrew Child wrote this book or someone else. It just does not have the thinking that reacher does all the time it’s missing his detailed thoughts on various things. I think anyone could have written this book. L e e said he was retiring, well perhaps he should retire reach her as well Go out when you’re at the height of your career not at the end. I read all 30 of the reacher books and they’re fantastic but this one is just not on my top five. I hope Lee decides to write the next one if there is a next one

Enjoyed the book from start to finish. It started with a simple beginning for Jack Reacher and worked into an interesting list of characters, twists and turns, and in the end satisfaction of getting to the bottom of the plots with all the questions answered.

I’ve read every book in the series. For the first time, I had to force myself to continue several times. The story does come together at the end. There were way too many characters in the story. I simply gave up tracking who was who and kept reading. The Reacher in this book doesn’t track to the previous books. He wouldn’t allow himself to keep being drug back from the bus station and back into the predicament. Normally, when he decides to leave, he is gone. IMHO.

Should have known better after reading #29, which was bad enough, but sad to say — after so very much enjoying the first 20 or more of these stories — that this series has turned surpassingly shoddy. Subsidiary characters are completely undeveloped, the story is lazily plotted and, worst, a surprising and original creation, Jack Reacher himself, has turned into a shadow of his former self. The portrayal of his character has become repetitious and tissue thin, his actions unsupported and not even minimally credible. Previously, when Reacher got involved in righting some wrong it was typically because he was forced to: was maybe thrown in jail, or prevented from doing something he wanted to do, or to right some deep *obvious* injustice; here… nothing. He keeps trying to leave town and doesn’t because… well, it’s never really clear in this mishmash of plots and unlikeable secondary characters.It’s also not clear who’s actually writing these books. But it’s fair to say that since the brother came on board this series appears to have degenerated into nothing more than a cash grab. I don’t write negative reviews, but Lee, Andrew, surely, surely you’ve made enough money. Surely you don’t enjoy writing this badly. Maybe it’s time to stop.

Writing is taut with no fluff. Plenty of action and intrigue. Interesting characters, and the best part, of course..Reacher kicking ass!

I won’t say more because it would have spoilers. But I will say that Louise Penny has done a spectacular job as always of her fully realized characters, stunning plotting, and artistic writing. Every book she writes is a joy to read. and not without a little wisdom from Armand Gamache.

At first, the premise of this novel seemed outlandish. But Louise Penny made it work and seem plausible. Of course, recent events helped shore it up. The novel starts slowly, a bit too slowly, but it picks up momentum and keeps providing exciting action. The new characters are well-drawn and the usual ones gain in depth; the plot skillfully combines fact and faction. Let’s hope that it proves to be more fiction than fact.

I have just loved Louise Penny’s Inspector Gamash series on so many levels. First of all, I grew up across from Brockville, Canadaon the NY state border and have been close to Canada geographically and emotionally. I loved the foodie aspects ofthe series (my mouth watering at the description of what they all were eating and wanted to join them at the table.I loved the characters, and their stories even Gamash’s cranky son-in-law. I want to live in Three Pines. The mysterieswere complex and absorbing. I, however, did not feel that Black Wolf was at the top of the list of her mysteries….. it was too chaotic with so many characters and events….the last part was filled with characters i did not know and circumstances that seemed unbelieveable. It somehow did not fit together as the endings of the first 19 mysteries. Isuspect that this might b the last of poor Gamasch. How much can that beloved detective endure? I just felt that the bk at the end was rushed in order to make the deadline of its coming out. It was a rush of too many things happening at once and of course, it was a scary but plausible series of events. God help us. Nonetheless I hope Louise will keep writing masterful and engaging mysteries. Emily Lamont

I waited months for this 20th in a series of fantastic novels by Louise Penny. I love her characters, including Three Pines, her twists and turns and her writing style. I have my favorites and this latest edition is one of them.

Sadly, I had come to some of the same conclusions about our present American regime (Nazi gangsters at heart).But this author with her exquisite prose turns a story of horrifying plans by wealthy & powerful people, of gullible and frightened masses, of sinister social media fakes into a brilliant novel, both a thriller and a shocking and profound social commentary.Truly, the whole world needs to read this to understand what is happening in the world today. This is our new reality and we must do everything possible to stop climate change if we are doomed to end our days in a viciously violent world where the wicked strong decimate those of us who live for live and beauty and truth.Tell your friends, your family, your colleagues that this is a Must Read detective novel. This book could wake the world up to the dark side human behavior in the scenario of rapid climate change.

Louise Penny is simply as good as it gets. The Gamache series must reading for both my wife and me. This is the only thriller series she reads … the characters are like old friends, Three Pines is an amazing village the plots intricate, extremely well written with one the great protagonists ever. Gamache’s is as one of the great ones. We own and have read all 20 in the series and can’t wait for #21. We made a recent trip to Montral and Quebec and our last stop before heading back to our flight from Burlington was at the Brome Lake Bookstore to visit the Louise Penny Corner. Unfortunately, it was not on one of her rare visiting days.

First, let me say that I have read each and every one of Louise Penny’s books and enjoyed all of them. She is such a talented author who understands the human psyche and relationships. And talk about descriptive settings! Wow! I feel like I need to wear all of my winter gear when I read one of her books.The only reason I didn’t give Black Wolf 5 stars is the same reason other reviewers have mentioned. We miss the warm and intricate world of Three Pines she has created over the years, with its eclectic cast of characters. We look forward to seeing what Ruth and her duck are up to or what’s for lunch at the bistro.As a mystery/thriller writer myself, I understand Penny’s reasons for changing it up, however. You can’t have your main characters keep finding bodies in a small village. But still. . .her fans are willing to suspend disbelief in order to immerse themselves in Three Pines—with their now familiar friends—again and again.There are too many political intrigue/assassination plots/spy novels out there. If I want that, I know which other authors will deliver those types of stories to my Kindle. Here’s hoping next year’s Louise Penny novel will bring us back home 🙂

I am a huge Louise Penny fan and have read most of her books multiple times. The Brutal Telling and Bury Your Dead are my favorites. However, I could not believe that I found the last two books (Grey and Black) boring, dense and uninspiring. Despite the detail and attention she gives to plot, her writing, (though technically superior), is getting sloppy. And a bit far fetched in terms of how Three Pines is a little known sanctuary that lucky people just happen to stumble upon. Given all the dramatic shootings and murders that occur there it seems incredible that the world would continue to leave it alone. And why is Gamache still in his late fifties, 20 years after he was in his mid-fifties (Still Life, book #1)??? This is not nitpicking to those of us who wait with baited breath for the next installment. This book has too many uninteresting characters (though I did like Shona), stress inducing political gymnastics when most of us are sick to death of politics, and not enough fresh and snappy conversation (a Penny trademark). It was a slog to the end.

I enjoyed this novel and found it hard to put down. I was glad to see it’s the first in a series because I would love to read more. The sheriff hero, Stilwell, is an engaging character who’s up against some worthy adversaries, which keeps the pot boiling and makes it interesting. I enjoyed the romantic subplot as well. All in all, an excellent read and not as dark as his Bosch novels, which is a good thing in my opinion.

A good read but not his best. Its hard to relate to a new character in a much lower key area. The books tempo was a lot slower the. The traditional Harry Bosch type Novels. It was still a good read with twists and sub plots he is famous for

I’m a big fan of Connelly’s books so was excited to hear that he had a new character coming out in his latest book: Nightshade. Having visited Catalina Island many times, I was also intrigued that the story was set in such a small town where not much seems to go on other than the coming and going of tourists on a daily basis. So how do you setup a thriller with intrigue, action and corruption in a tiny town where not much that goes on is unnoticed?All the locations are mostly accurate (streets, restaurants, island environment) so Connelly must be a regular visitor to the island or perhaps spent some time there. A couple of the locations in the book are fictitious, but if you know the island you can picture the setting and the people in that setting (like the Black Marlin Club), as there are similar places on the island.The story rolls out pretty quickly as is usual in a Connelly mystery. The main character, Stilwell, a detective sergeant who got sent to the island after having a run-in with some of his fellow officers on the mainland, efficiently patrols the island and has a quick bead on troubles that arise. But things get out of control when several crimes are committed and it becomes apparent quickly that they are related.Some people have said that Stilwell was not thoroughly developed by the writer, but I believe the character will be developed further if Connelly continues to write Stillwel books. You can pick up any Bosch book and there is not a great amount of character development in any single book. That comes as the character appears across several books and is faced with multiple crises that require him to reach back into his past for experience and problem solving. That is my experience with Bosch.This is a good one, worth the read, and hopefully we see more of Stilwell keeping the peace on Catalina Island (or elsewhere!)

I have been a fan of Michael Connelly since his first detective thriller and have enjoyed seeing him mature as a writer. He tells great, full stories full of unexpected turns of events. He builds suspense, sometimes to the point of anxiety. He builds deeply relatable characters. He anchors his stories in well-researched factual contexts. He tells a rich story, from beginning to end. In sum, he is a writer who richly deserves his success and reputation.Compared with virtually all of Connolly’s previous novels, few of his distinguishing attributes as an author were to be found in “Nightshade.” He writes well enough but the plot, characters, and story details have a first draft feel — rushed, unfinished, unexciting, and truncated. The book might better serve as a pitch outline for a television series or movie. Even the line spacing and white space has the appearance of attempting to make the book look like more than it is.I hope this fallback is temporary. In the meantime, those looking for “classic Connolly” will find all of those attributes well-expressed in Robert Dugoni’s Detective Tracy Crosswhite books.

Engaging. As I got further into it, I couldn’t put it down. There were two stories going on at once. I really enjoyed the intermingling of the characters throughout. It took some turns I didn’t expect which is what kept it interesting throughout.

I wanted to like this more being a big Bosch and Ballard fan. I am willing to give a second volume a chance since Nightshade was engaging but just didn’t pack the same punch as the Bosch and Ballard series. I enjoyed the Catalina Island vibe. Michael Connelly captured its essence well. Stilwell, the main character, enjoys his life on Catalina Island, with his semi-serious love interest, Tash, and the law enforcement cohorts and cast of characters he deals with. Two main cases are on his plate, and he discovers they are connected. Good character development and believeable characters.

Got this on a rec from Jack Carr for a vacation read in Destin. It’s a great story, easy read, I was done by the end of our trip. Connelly is a great story teller. Will definitely look into his catalog further

This is a complicated story with lots of twists and turns. The sheriff is an interesting character named Stilwell who is investigating the poaching of a protected buffalo and a waitress from an elite local club.

Historical Fiction. Well-written book, with an engaging plot, strong characters.

The Frozen River gripped me from the very first page. Ariel Lawhon weaves a suspenseful, atmospheric historical fiction that’s as chilling as the icy Kennebec River at its heart. Set in 1789 Maine, this novel is inspired by the real-life Martha Ballard, a midwife and healer whose diary became an invaluable historical record—and here, Lawhon transforms her into a formidable protagonist who’s part detective, part mother, and entirely unforgettable.The plot centers around the murder of a man found frozen in the river, and as Martha pieces together what happened, secrets about the townspeople (and even her own family) unravel like threads in a quilt. It’s layered with mystery, grit, and quiet resilience. I found myself admiring Martha’s strength, especially as a woman navigating a male-dominated world—and not just surviving, but outsmarting them.

I read a book a week counting my ones on CD . This was my hardcover edition and I the loved the story, the writing which was so smooth and heartfelt. Ms. Lawhon understands human emotions so well. The couple in this book have a great relationship in the day to day of life we all must live. Her husband is the kind of lover and partner, I would give anything to have. Truly loving, adoring and he still looks at her as the beauty he fell in love with. Always supportive and respectful of her special gifts .

This book was written so well. Such depth of character and story. It was relatable even though set in the 1700’s. It was fiction but felt so real. This is a read that will linger for a long time.

A fascinating book combining the best of historical fiction, medical/gynecological history, and mystery. It is set in the late 1700’s, told the point of view of a upright, strong-willed, and righteous midwife who is caught up in the mysteries of medical management of the times, as well as in colonoal societal ethics over promiscuity, sex, and rape. The story presents what passed for medical treatment and legal process in the early days of the United States in the Northeast, and will be a captivating read for anyone with an interest in that period of history and in the origins of our medical, legal, and ethical perspectives.

I enjoyed the writing, it was a nice read but slow. So if you want something super exciting its not this book. This book is worth the read, its the type of book you relax & take on vacation.

I enjoyed the story and it moved nicely along.I grew up in Portland Maine and my grandfather, Jaddus Casey, was born in Canada in 1889 and my grandmother was about 20 years younger than him. My grandparents immigrated to Woodland, Maine, which is Northeast of Moosehead Lake. I had a difficult time with the writer’s description of northern Maine. Even though winters are long, I still thought it was overblown as to Maine’s winters. My grandparents house had an outhouse and a hand pump for the sink in the kitchen. The house had a large kitchen, 3 bedrooms and a loft. Eventually a baby-blue bathroom. The “living room” had room for a stove and a rocking chair only. I was born in 1965. I understand this story was 200 years prior, but it still was hard for me to still visualize the described area. Maybe I was immune to the cold.

Excellent book, I really enjoyed the story and the characters were well defined. I recommend this book for it was a pleasure to read