April Book Recommendations: A Month of Mystery, Magic, and Unexpected Adventures!
- Alis Page
- May 8
- 15 min read
Updated: May 15
Another month has flown by, and that means it's time for one of my favourite things - to share with you all my book recommendations from my April reading frenzy, so here I am, looking back at all the brilliant (and sometimes bonkers!) books I've managed to squeeze into April. It’s been a real mix this time around, from timeless classics to twisty thrillers, and I loved every second. Here’s a little peek at what kept me turning the pages this month…
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Miles in Time This one really took me on a journey – part adventure, part reflection, and full of those little moments that make you stop and think. A thoughtful and memorable read.
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Title: Miles in Time                     Â
Author: Lee Matthew Goldberg
Genre: Mystery Thriller YA Time Travel
Series: Miles in Time
Publisher: Wise Wolf Books
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 304
Format Read: E book supplied by Henry ROI in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
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About Book: Solve the mystery, save the future...
14-year-old Miles Hardy spends most of his time as an amateur Sherlock Holmes and running his detective agency with his good friend and loyal assistant, Kevin. However, in sleepy Frontier, Iowa, it's been hard to snag a case bigger than finding some old lady's missing cat-until Miles' genius older brother, Simon the inventor, winds up dead.
Using his knack for uncovering hidden truths, Miles stumbles upon a secret lab where his late brother, Simon, created a ground breaking time machine. Among the discoveries is a chilling video Simon recorded before his death, revealing his fear of being followed and a dire warning: if anything happens to him, Miles must use the time machine to uncover who is after the invention and stop them. The stakes couldn't be higher-if the device falls into the wrong hands, the future itself could be at risk.
From suspicious classmates to shadowy corporations, no one is above suspicion as Miles races against time to solve his first real case. But one wrong move could change everything-and running into his past self is strictly off-limits.
Can Miles crack the case, save his brother's life, and protect the future? Or will time run out before he uncovers the truth?
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My Thoughts: Miles in Time by Lee Matthew Goldberg is a YA mystery thriller packed with twists, teen drama, and a dash of time travel. The pacing was steady, and the prose flowed easily, making it a really smooth and enjoyable read from start to finish.
I do love a good time travel story, but this one felt different in a really good way. Yes, there’s sci-fi, but there’s also real heart. The book had drama, suspense, and just the right amount of emotion to make it more than just a mystery. I found myself quickly wrapped up in Miles’ journey as he tried to figure out what really happened to his brother, Simon. It turned into such a page-turner that I ended up reading it in just two sittings!
What stood out to me most was how the book explored more than just the mystery. It delves into teenage angst, grief, brotherly love, and those tricky family dynamics that feel all too real. Goldberg really captures what it feels like to be a teenager caught up in something way bigger than yourself.
I have to say, Goldberg is a fascinating writer. He has a way with words that pulled me in and kept me turning the pages. Even though this isn’t my usual kind of read, I found it a compelling and gripping YA mystery, and I’m so glad I gave it a go.
If you're into stories with heart, high-stakes mystery, and a touch of sci-fi, Miles in Time is one to add to your list!
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield Gothic vibes galore! This was beautifully written, full of secrets and haunting family stories – perfect for curling up with on a rainy day
Title: The Thirteenth Tale
Author: Diane Setterfield
Genre: Gothic mystery suspense
Publisher: Orion
Published Date: 2006
Book Length: 408
Format Read: Hardback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: And what is the secret that strikes at the heart of Margaret's own, troubled life? As Margaret digs deeper, two parallel stories unfold, and the tale she uncovers sheds a disturbing light on her own life.
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My Thoughts: The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield is a gothic mystery full of suspense and atmosphere. I came across it thanks to my book club—it was their pick for the month—and I’m so glad they chose it. I treated myself to a hardback copy (my favourite format), and it was sold as a first edition. I mention that only because of the dust jacket—it’s beautiful, and when done right, a great dust cover feels like a part of the whole reading experience.
This is truly a book for book lovers. It features a reclusive author, a bookshop, and a personal library—what more could a reader ask for? Setterfield’s writing is lyrical, ebbing and flowing like the sea. At times, it’s frantic and tumultuous; at others, calm and hypnotic. Her prose carries you along in a rhythm that suits the story perfectly.
At its heart, the novel is a sad tale. It centres on a set of twins and their troubled family history, and there are definite echoes of the Victorian gothic tradition throughout. The mood is eerie, the atmosphere thick with secrets, and I found myself utterly engrossed from beginning to end. The twist near the conclusion caught me completely off guard—in the best way!
The Thirteenth Tale is a haunting and beautifully written story that lingers long after the final page. It’s an ideal read for anyone who loves books about books, with a good dose of mystery and a gothic flair. I’d highly recommend it to fans of Rebecca or The Shadow of the Wind. Atmospheric, emotional, and elegantly told—this is one I’ll be thinking about for a long time.
The Little Prince by Antoine De Saint-Exupery A classic that’s just as magical reading it as an adult as it is when you're a kid. Gentle, wise, and heartbreakingly beautiful
Title: The Little Prince
Author: Antoine De Saint-Exupery
Genre: Children's classic
Publisher: Maxtor
Published Date: Original 1943
Book Length: 98
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: A timeless tale that transcends generations, blending enchanting storytelling with poignant life lessons. Join the Little Prince on his interstellar odyssey, encountering quirky planets and unforgettable characters that mirror our own world in mesmerizing ways. As friendships blossom and wisdom blooms, readers young and old are invited to rekindle their childlike wonder and explore truths about love, loss, and the essence of being human. A captivating journey that lingers, this book is a celestial treasure perfect for those seeking magic, insight, and the pure joy of imagination. • Timeless tale weaving enchanting storytelling with poignant life lessons for all. • Join the Little Prince on an interstellar odyssey of whimsical wisdom. • Quirky planets and unforgettable characters mirror poignant truths of our world. • Rekindle childlike wonder, exploring love, loss, and the essence of humanity. • A celestial treasure perfect for seekers of magic, insight, and imagination.
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My Thoughts: What can I say? The original edition of The Little Prince was published way back in 1943, and my own copy—printed in 2016—still carries a message that feels just as relevant today. This timeless children's classic was chosen by my book club, and, incredibly, it was my first time reading it.
At its heart, The Little Prince is a gentle and philosophical tale. On the surface, it’s the story of a young boy—the Little Prince—who travels from planet to planet, encountering a variety of curious grown-ups along the way. But there’s so much more beneath these whimsical adventures. Through the innocent, sometimes puzzling questions posed by the Little Prince, the book explores big themes: loneliness, friendship, love, loss, and the strange ways of adults.
What struck me most was the combination of childlike wonder and deep emotional wisdom. There’s a beautiful honesty that runs through the story—something that feels rare and refreshing. It reminds us of how children see the world with clarity and sincerity, unburdened by the complexities and contradictions adults often create.
Though written for children, this story holds just as much—if not more—meaning for grown-up readers. It’s a gentle reminder to stay curious, to value what really matters, and to see with the heart rather than the eyes.
I can see why The Little Prince has stood the test of time. It’s a charming, thought-provoking read that lingers long after the final page. If you haven’t read it yet—whether you’re eight or eighty—it’s well worth picking up. A quiet little book with a big, beautiful soul.
Tuckers Fyke by Bruno Beaches A completely new author for me and a really gripping find! Tense, atmospheric, and packed with twists I didn’t see coming
Title: Tuckers Fyke
Author: Bruno Beaches
Genre: Thriller
Publisher: Austin MaCauley
Published Date: 2024
Book Length: 176
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: Gabriela, a product of the care system, is an independent and feisty young lady. She has a brief and innocent encounter with a complete stranger, during which she intuitively forms the opinion that this odd man is dangerous. She has absolutely no evidence, but she feels driven by her gut feeling to discover proof to substantiate her suspicions. This only serves to get her into trouble with the police for stalking, harassment, and theft. They treat her as a nuisance who suffers from delusions and, as far as possible, she is to be ignored and discouraged. However, her doggedness and determination drive her to persevere with her quest despite the opposition, only to succeed in putting her own life on the line. Can she be rescued? Or will she, in fact, become just one more hidden victim?
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My Thoughts: Tuckers Fyke was a taut, gripping thriller that kept me engaged from the very first page. The story cleverly alternated between the present-day narrative and flashbacks to Tucker’s formative years, creating a rich, layered insight into both characters. These time shifts were handled seamlessly, adding depth and building suspense as I slowly pieced together Tucker’s troubled past and how it influenced his present.
The short chapters were a smart stylistic choice—they gave the story a punchy pace and heightened the sense of tension and urgency. Bruno Beaches had a wonderfully accessible writing style that still managed to get deep under the characters’ skins. His portrayal of Tucker was particularly powerful—disturbing yet utterly compelling. Beaches had a real gift for showing the darker edges of human nature without over-explaining or romanticising them.
Gabriela, meanwhile, was easy to root for. Her determination, even in the face of disbelief and danger, was admirable. She was far from a traditional heroine, and that’s what made her so refreshing. Her instincts, drive, and refusal to back down made her a standout protagonist.
If you were looking for a psychological thriller with sharp character insight, rising tension, and a lead you could truly get behind, Tuckers Fyke delivered. It was chilling in all the right ways, with a plot that kept me second-guessing and characters who lingered long after the final page. Bruno Beaches crafted a haunting, atmospheric read that I thoroughly enjoyed—and I’d definitely be looking out for more of his work.
The Doorman by Chris Pavone This had me hooked from the start – a sharp, fast-paced thriller with enough mystery and tension to keep me guessing all the way through.
Title: The Doorman
Author: Chris Pavone
Genre: Thriller
Publisher: Aries Head of Zeus
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 400
Format Read: Paperback provided by the publisher in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: Chicky Diaz is everyone's favourite doorman at the Bohemia, New York City's world-famous home of celebrities, financiers, and the cultural elite. Gathered in the Bohemia's basement, the almost entirely Black and Hispanic staff is reeling. Just a few miles away, a Black man has been killed by the police, leading to a long night of violence across the city. But the rising tensions aren't what most concern Chicky. He knows that there's more going on within the rooms of the Bohemia than anyone's aware of. In fact, ahead of tonight's shift, he bought a gun even before he knew of the rising pandemonium. , enemies will clash, loyalties will be tested, secrets will be revealed - and lives will be lost. New York City is a tinderbox - just one more spark and it will go up in flames.
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My Thoughts: The Doorman by Chris Pavone is a gripping mystery thriller that plays out over the course of just two intense days. Each chapter focuses on a different character, which really helps you get under the skin of every player involved. It’s a clever technique that not only builds suspense but also creates a deeper emotional connection with the people at the heart of the story.
Pavone’s writing is mesmerising—he masterfully weaves together the lives of the privileged and the struggling, showing how their worlds intersect in unexpected ways. The tension and drama are palpable as the plot unfolds, with twists and turns that keep you guessing right to the end. The way he reveals each character's private battles adds real depth to the narrative.
The Doorman is a smart, fast-paced thriller that delivers on suspense, character, and emotional complexity. If you enjoy stories where every detail matters and no one is quite who they seem, this one’s for you.
The Shadow Killer by Cat Yaffe Dark and chilling, this one gave me serious "just one more chapter" syndrome. A properly twisty crime story that kept me on my toes!
Title: The Shadow Killer
Author: Cat Yaffe
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 294
Format Read: E book supplied by the author as an ARC
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: How Deep Can You Go Into A Killer's Mind Before You Lose Your Own? Dr. Evelyn Shaw is a celebrated forensic psychologist, known for her ability to uncover the minds of the most dangerous criminals. But when she is asked to profile James Hawthorne, a cunning and manipulative serial killer, she finds herself drawn into a psychological battle unlike any she has faced before. James is no ordinary murderer. He reveals unsettling details about his crimes—and Evelyn’s past. As their sessions progress, Evelyn’s carefully constructed life begins to unravel. Long-buried childhood traumas resurface: a domineering father, a mother’s mysterious death, and a brother she couldn’t save. James’s eerie knowledge of her darkest memories forces her to question whether he is manipulating her or if her mind is betraying her. As Detective Inspector Ziggy Thornes races to uncover the truth behind James’s crimes, Evelyn becomes increasingly isolated. The line between victim and accomplice blurs when James escapes and Evelyn flees to her childhood home to confront the truth. In a chilling finale, Evelyn must face her darkest fears and unravel her own connection to James’s crimes. The Shadow Killer is a gripping psychological thriller that explores the thin line between sanity and madness, manipulation and truth, leaving readers questioning where darkness truly begins.
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My Thoughts: The Shadow Killer by Catherine Yaffe is a gripping psychological thriller and the fifth book in the DI Ziggy Thorne series—but don’t worry, it works perfectly as a standalone.
The story kicks off with the killer already caught, which is a refreshing twist in a genre that usually builds up to that moment. From there, the book looks deep into the twisted mind of the criminal, probing the where, how and why behind the crime. The plot is cleverly constructed, layer by layer, much like DI Ziggy Thorne’s own investigative style—measured, methodical, and always driven by instinct.
I devoured this book in just two quick sessions. But a word of caution: some scenes are quite grim and may not be for the faint-hearted. That said, the tension and psychological depth more are brilliant. DI Ziggy Thorne is a fantastic, well-rounded character—believable, flawed, and committed to justice.
In conclusion, this is my favourite Catherine Yaffe novel so far. Her ability to craft dark, suspense-filled storylines that keep you second-guessing is second to none. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers with a gritty edge and a brilliant lead detective, The Shadow Killer is one you won’t want to miss.
Under the Paint by James Michels Short but punchy, this one really packed a punch. A gritty, raw story that stayed with me long after I finished the last page.
Title: Under The Paint
Author: James Michels
Genre: Romance Psychological Thriller
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 299
Format Read: E book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: In the world’s eyes, Henry and Gwen Henderson have the perfect marriage. Living in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, they are financially well off, good-looking, and respected in the community. They seem to have it all. But everything is not perfect beneath the surface. Each of them suffers from constant pressure to maintain their reputable images and seemingly perfect life. They’ve grown apart from each other, and the stress and mental isolation has caused both of them to develop different addictions. Everything on the surface seems perfect until Margot Tanner, comes to Detroit after leaving her home in Los Angeles with the goal to start a new life and escape her past. Dangerous people are after her, and even those close to her aren’t safe. Can Henry, Gwen, Margot, their lives suddenly more complicated, find their own happily ever after, or will their individual darkness's swallow them whole?
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My Thoughts: Under the Paint by James Michels is a psychological thriller that follows three main protagonists: Henry, Gwen, and Margot. Right from the start, the pacing is steady, and Michels does a great job of establishing a strong sense of each character. As the story unfolds, he carefully reveals more about them, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of their strengths and flaws.
One of the standout elements of the novel is the way Michels unwraps the details layer by layer, which kept the tension simmering throughout. His writing style was engaging and immersive, making it easy for me to stay invested in the characters and their journeys and I must say there was not a character I didn’t like, I was routing for each of them at different times. The storyline itself feels refreshingly different — while there are moments that are somewhat predictable, there were surprises that kept me on my toes.
I found myself eager to see how everything would play out, and I ended up finishing the book in just a couple of sittings. Michels balances character development and plot progression well, making this a thriller that’s as much about the people as it is about the twists.
Under the Paint is a gripping psychological thriller that combines steady pacing, layered character development, and an intriguing plot. While it occasionally dips into predictability, this did not take away anything from the book and Michels' writing style and storytelling ability shone through. If you enjoy character-driven thrillers that offer both tension and emotional depth, this one is definitely worth picking up.
The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths This atmospheric crime thriller blends ancient history with modern investigation — and introduces the unforgettable Ruth Galloway.
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Title: The Crossing Places
Author: Elly Griffiths
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Series: Book 1 of 15 Ruth Galloway Series
Publisher: Quercus
Published Date: 2016
Book Length: 320
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
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About Book: Dr Ruth Galloway is called in when a child's bones are discovered near the site of a pre-historic henge on the north Norfolk salt marshes. Are they the remains of a local girl who disappeared ten years earlier - or are the bones much older?
DCI Harry Nelson refuses to give up the hunt for the missing girl. Since she vanished, someone has been sending him bizarre anonymous notes about ritual sacrifice, quoting Shakespeare and the Bible. He knows that Ruth's expertise and experience could help him finally to put this case to rest.
But when a second child goes missing, Ruth finds herself in danger from a killer who knows she's getting ever closer to the truth...
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My Thoughts: The Crossing Places by Elly Griffiths is a crime mystery novel and the first in the Dr Ruth Galloway series, which spans an impressive 15 books.
The pacing of the story is steady, allowing me to really settle into the world Griffiths creates. I was particularly drawn to the characters, especially Dr Ruth Galloway and DI Harry Nelson. They are complete opposites — Ruth is self-deprecating and quietly strong, while Nelson is gruff and forthright — yet both are exceptional in their fields and show a deep respect for each other and their expertise. Their dynamic is engaging and felt very real, adding layers of authenticity to the story.
The theme of an archaeology professor working alongside the police is both intriguing and fascinating. As clues are uncovered and discussed, the investigation slowly builds, offering a unique and intelligent twist on the usual crime mystery format. I especially loved the conversations between Ruth and Nelson; their exchanges brought a deeper understanding of both the characters and the developing storyline.
As the novel progresses, the tension and drama gradually build, leading to some well-executed surprises. The prose flows beautifully, drawing me along with a natural rhythm that made it hard to put the book down.
In conclusion, The Crossing Places is an absorbing, cleverly written mystery with compelling characters and a great premise. It’s a strong start to what promises to be a fantastic series. I can’t wait to see where Ruth and Nelson’s story goes next!
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So that’s my April reading roundup! A real mixed bag this month – a little bit of mystery, a sprinkle of classic charm, and plenty of late nights spent saying, "just five more pages!" Have you read any of these, or are any on your TBR pile? I’d love to hear what you’ve been reading too – let’s chat in the comments!
Love Alis x
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