May's Book Buzz: 11 Book Recommendations From My Overcommitted (But Worth It!) Reading Month
- Alis Page
- 10 hours ago
- 23 min read
So May was a bit of a whirlwind! I somehow managed to read 11 books and get through 3,350 pages, which is great going for me — but if I’m being honest, I definitely overcommitted myself. I hate letting people down once I’ve promised to be part of something, so I just kept reading and hoping the kettle would keep up with me!
It was a real mixed bag of genres this month — a bit of mystery, some historical romance, a sprinkle of sci-fi, and even a nostalgic trip back to Hogwarts. If you’re on the lookout for book recommendations, there’s a little something for everyone in this round-up.
📖 Here’s what I read in May:
🦴 Bone Maker by D.F. Bailey – Thriller/Mystery
This was a gripping start to the month with a twisty mystery and a dark edge — the kind of book that keeps you guessing and makes you question everyone.
Title: Bone Maker
Author: D F Bailey
Genre: Mystery Thriller
Series: Will Finch Mystery Thriller Series book 1 of 8
Publisher: Vinci Books
Published Date: 2015
Book Length: 241
Format Read: E book
Star Rating: 5 ***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: A small-town murder with secrets dark enough to ruin everyone involved…
Will Finch, a San Francisco crime reporter, is drawn to a small Oregon town where a murder exposes dangerous secrets. The local sheriff controls the town with an iron grip, determined to block Finch’s investigation at every turn.
At the centre of the case is the victim’s fiancée, a senator’s daughter, whose silence only deepens the mystery. As Finch follows the trail, he uncovers a web of corruption and betrayal stretching far beyond the wilderness. The truth could cost him everything.
My Thoughts: Bone Maker is a mystery thriller and the first book in the Will Finch Mystery Thriller series. I’ve had this book on my shelf for a while, and now that I’ve read it, I’m not sure why I waited so long!
Told from the perspective of investigative reporter Will Finch, the story follows his relentless pursuit of the truth. Like a bloodhound on the scent, Finch won’t stop until he uncovers the answers he’s looking for. The pacing is steady, keeping the suspense simmering while introducing a range of characters — all of whom feel essential to the plot.
Bailey’s ability to juggle a complex web of people, clues, and events is impressive. The main characters are detailed and well-developed, and even the more minor players are vivid and memorable thanks to Bailey’s descriptive writing. Conversations feel natural and immersive, making it easy to feel like a fly on the wall as events unfold.
If you enjoy mystery thrillers with a strong investigative lead, smart writing, and a compelling cast of characters, The Bone Maker is well worth your time. It's a promising start to the series and one that has definitely made me want to continue reading more about Will Finch’s cases. I’m off to get the 2nd book in the series.
🎩 The Duke’s Dream by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Historical Romance
A very evocative love story set in a beautifully detailed historical setting. I enjoyed escaping into this one and rooting for the characters to find their happy ending.
Title: The Dukes Dream
Author: Giovanna Siniscalchi
Genre: Historical Romance
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 417
Format Read: E Book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Helene de Beaumont, a French émigrée in Regency London, is poised to become the star of Sir Walter Scott’s new ballet, La Sylphide. With flawless technique and a self-taught mastery of dancing en pointe, her dreams of ballet glory are finally within reach. But when she captures the attention of William Harcourt, the powerful and enigmatic Duke of Albemarle—known in political circles as the Silent Sovereign—everything changes. He’s spent years haunted by the image of a sprite glimpsed only in restless dreams—graceful, untouchable, and maddeningly out of reach. Now she stands before him on stage: Helene. And the moment he sees her, he knows one thing with certainty—he must have her. As fascination turns to obsession, Helene is swept into a dangerous waltz of power, passion, and surrender. In a season glittering with promise and peril, she must choose between the life she’s fought for… or the man who could unravel it all with a single touch.
My Thoughts: The Duke's Dream by Giovanna Siniscalchi is a historical romance novel that beautifully intertwines themes of obsession, love, aristocracy, and ballet. This is the third book I’ve read by Siniscalchi, and once again, her lyrical prose is nothing short of poetic. Her descriptions are so vivid and emotive that I could feel the characters' longing and see the events unfolding as if I were right there with them. My words hardly do this book justice.
The story is told from the alternating perspectives of William and Helene, which adds depth and richness to their individual experiences. I especially loved the elegant preludes to each chapter—short, evocative paragraphs that reflect on Helene's connection to ballet and William's ties to the aristocracy. It's a touch that makes the novel feel almost cinematic.
The pacing is steady but brimming with anticipation as the drama intensifies with each turn of the page. William and Helene’s chemistry is magnetic; they practically dance around each other, fighting the pull of desire yet succumbing to it in moments of raw passion. And be warned—Siniscalchi does not hold back on the passion!
The Duke's Dream is a captivating blend of elegance and intensity, driven by beautifully complex characters and lush, poetic writing. Siniscalchi masterfully captures the essence of longing and love against the backdrop of aristocratic life and the ethereal world of ballet. If you’re a fan of historical romance with a touch of fiery passion, this is a book you won’t want to miss.
🚨 A Ward of the State by M.E. Wright – Political Sci-Fi
This one really surprised me. It’s a thoughtful and bold look at the intersection of politics and identity, wrapped in a sci-fi setting that felt uncomfortably close to home at times.
Title: A Ward of The State
Author: M E Wright
Genre: Sci Fi Political
Series: The Unborn Child Protection Act series
Publisher: Merrywood Publishers
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 302
Format Read: E Book supplied by Love Books Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: She was raised to think for herself. Now, she’s being told who to become.
Allison Maxwell has spent the last two years in Hamburg with her father, growing up in a world that values intellect and independence. But when a spike in global tensions forces her to return to Manhattan, she finds herself trapped in a version of home that no longer makes sense.
At Vanguard Preparatory Academy—a school reserved for the children of the powerful elite—boys are trained to lead, while girls are moulded to submit. She’s confused by lessons that feel like systemic indoctrination and disturbed by the trap masked by patriotism and prayer.
As Allison resists the rules shaping her future, she bonds with Michelle, a sharp-witted student who sees through Vanguard’s polished façade. Together, they begin to question not just the school but the world that built it. And when family secrets come to light, Allison is forced to confront a chilling reality: the system isn’t broken—it’s working exactly as designed.
Set in 2042, A Ward of the State is a dark, psychological commentary on control, compliance, and the quiet rebellion of a girl who refuses to be reshaped. M.E. Wright deftly explores the interpersonal dynamics of family, agency, and inner resilience in this thought-provoking third novel in The Unborn Child Protection Act saga.
My Thoughts: A Ward of the State by M.E. Wright is the third instalment in the Unborn Child Protection Act series, a science fiction political thriller set in the not-so-distant year of 2042. The story follows Allison Maxwell, who finds herself torn between two vastly different worlds as she shuttles between her parents, each living on different continents with contrasting lifestyles that reflect the stark political and social divides of their respective countries.
Wright crafts a futuristic tale that explores not only the dynamics of a wealthy family but also the rigid structures they inhabit. At the heart of the story is Allison's return to Manhattan, where she enrols at Vanguard Preparatory Academy—a prestigious institution for the children of the elite. What seems like a beacon of privilege quickly reveals itself to be a tool of control, where boys are moulded to lead and girls are trained to submit.
While the chapters felt somewhat long and occasionally tempted me to skim, the pacing remained steady, and the narrative was easy to follow. Wright’s writing style made it simple to connect emotionally with the characters, particularly Allison as she navigates the unsettling expectations placed upon her.
The novel is not just about family dynamics; it’s about the broader implications of control, compliance, and the consequences of choices. Wright skilfully portrays a world where love must adapt to survive, and rebellion is a quiet but powerful act of defiance. Parts of this imagined future are genuinely chilling—a reflection, perhaps, of the unknown and the uneasy feeling it brings.
A Ward of the State is a dark, psychological exploration of systemic power and the fight for individuality within a controlled society. Wright’s narrative is thought-provoking, and I think will challenge readers to consider the consequences of unchecked authority and the resilience needed to resist it. I think fans of The Handmaid's Tale or 1984 will enjoy reading this as it explores themes of societal control, political indoctrination, and gender roles in speculative futures.
🌞 Murder Under the Sun by Faith Martin – Mystery/Thriller
Classic whodunnit vibes with a sun-drenched twist. It was light enough to breeze through, but with enough mystery to keep me captivated right to the end.
Title: Murder Under The Sun
Author: Faith Martin
Genre: Mystery Crime Thriller
Series: DI Hillary Greene book 22
Publisher: Joffe Books
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 243
Format Read: E Book supplied by Zooloo’s Book Tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Former Detective Hillary Greene and her cold case team are sweltering in their stuffy basement office on the hottest day of the year when they are handed an impossible case. Fifteen years ago, Imelda Phelps was battered to death in the hallway of her home. The brutal crime shocked the residents of the pretty market town of Chipping Norton. The killer was never caught. The motive for the murder remains a mystery. Could the happily married mother-of-two’s stunning good looks have played a part in her death? Everyone will have to take a hard look in the mirror — and not everyone will like what they see. If Hillary is to crack the case, she must keep an open mind. But one thing is crystal-clear: this crime was personal. It’s up to Hillary and her team to work out which of Imelda’s family and friends is hiding a deadly secret. A secret lover. A humiliated husband. A vengeful ex-business partner. A resentful daughter. The list of suspects grows . . .Suddenly an unexpected lead throws the case wide open. And then a second body turns up. This cold case is now red hot . . .
My Thoughts: Murder Under The Sun by Faith Martin is a captivating mystery thriller and the 22nd instalment in the DI Hillary Greene series. Right from the start, I found myself drawn to the main protagonist, Hillary Greene. Warm, enigmatic, and incredibly thorough, she comes across as not just a skilled detective but a genuinely decent person. For those familiar with the series, Hillary is already a well-loved character, but even newcomers will find it easy to connect with her, thanks to Martin's brilliant knack for writing characters that feel like old friends.
Despite being deep into the series, this book stands firmly on its own. Martin's storytelling is immersive—I was nearly halfway through before I even considered putting it down. The pacing is steady, almost therapeutic, yet utterly gripping. The way the case unfolds, explored with meticulous detail and sharp investigative work, makes this novel a page-turner—not in a frantic way, but with the satisfaction of piecing together a perfectly laid-out puzzle.
Martin has undoubtedly hooked me, and I’m already off to buy books 1 through 21. If Murder Under The Sun is any indication of the quality of the series, I’m in for a real treat. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering DI Hillary Greene for the first time, this book is well worth the read.
🕰 Time Fixers by Lee Matthew Goldberg – Young Adult Time Travel
This one was such fun! A clever, fast-paced YA time travel adventure with high stakes and likable characters. It had a real sense of momentum and adventure that kept me turning the pages.
Title: Time Fixers
Author: Lee Matthew Goldberg
Genre: Young Adult, Time Travel Mystery
Series: Miles in Time book 2
Publisher: Wise Wolf Books
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 252
Format Read: E Book
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Fix the past, save your mom...and don't fall for the enemy.
After solving his brother Simon's murder and rewriting history, 15-year-old sleuth Miles Hardy returns to quiet Frontier, Iowa-where cases are scarce, and boredom runs deep. But when their mom's mental health rapidly declines and she's placed in a care facility, Miles and Simon make an impossible choice to travel back to 1999 to rewrite her fate.
In a world of Discmen, JNCO jeans, Britney Spears, and pre-Y2K paranoia, the brothers, alongside the ever-bold Maisie, must navigate high school hallways and family secrets to rescue their teenage mother from the abusive home that sent her down a dark path. But the mission takes a dangerous twist when they discover their grandfather is working for the same ruthless corporation that once hunted the time machine-and he's still after it.
As Simon infiltrates the enemy from within, Miles finds himself torn between fierce, no-nonsense Maisie, and a mysterious new crush who just might be playing both sides. Every choice in the past risks unravelling the future, and failure could mean losing their mom...forever.
Can Miles rewrite history without erasing what matters most? Or will love and loyalty collide in a timeline beyond repair?
Jump back to 1999 in Time Fixers-a heart-racing blend of teen sleuthing, time-travel thrills, and emotional twists you won't see coming.
My Thoughts: Time Fixers by Lee Matthew Goldberg is the second book in the Miles In Time series, a captivating YA time-travel mystery that explores themes of family, redemption, and the power of second chances. Although this book can be read as a standalone, it feels like revisiting old friends, with characters that are as endearing as they are memorable. Goldberg’s storytelling is steady and fluid, making the journey through time an effortless experience.
In Time Fixers, we follow Miles, who has noticeably matured since the first book, despite only a year having passed. His growth is evident—not just in age, but in his mindset and sense of responsibility. He takes on the role of protector with determination, striving to right past wrongs in the hope of securing a better future. Goldberg has crafted a well-rounded protagonist in Miles, one whose courage and determination are as inspiring as they are heartfelt. It's impossible not to root for him as he navigates the complexities of time travel with his brother and the dilemmas it presents.
The novel masterfully weaves elements of suspense and surprise, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing right until the very end. These unpredictable shifts not only add layers of drama to the plot but also highlight the stakes involved in altering the past. Goldberg’s ability to blend emotional depth with high-paced action makes Time Fixers a compelling read from start to finish.
One of the standout elements of the book is its exploration of family and the lengths one will go to protect and restore those bonds. This emotional core adds weight to the time-travel narrative, grounding it in relatable human experiences. Whether it’s the connection between parents and children or the loyalty shared among friends, Goldberg captures these relationships with authenticity and heart.
Overall, Time Fixers is a thrilling continuation of the Miles In Time series that perfectly balances adventure and emotion. Lee Matthew Goldberg’s ability to craft well-developed characters within a fast-paced, time-twisting plot is impressive. Fans of YA mysteries and time travel adventures will find much to love in this gripping sequel, and it certainly leaves you eager to see where Miles’ journey through time will take him next.
🏛 Restoration by Jan Stirling Locke – Historical Romance
Richly written and emotionally layered, this romance felt mature and meaningful. I loved the slower pace and the attention to detail in the setting.
Title: Restoration
Author: Jan Stirling Locke
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Von Werstein Trilogy book 2 of 3
Publisher: Cranthorpe Millner
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 321
Format Read: Paperback provided by the publisher in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: It is January 1946, and following General Karl von Werstein's exoneration in Nuremberg, he spends his first night together with Helen and their baby son as a family. Their future looks bleak, and they struggle to find a place to live in the aftermath of a war that has destroyed millions of lives, and made them citizens of nowhere.
Karl is offered work and a home for the family in the city of Bonn, where Helen can continue her medical studies. They soon get caught up in the webs of intrigue and shifting loyalties that define post-war divided Germany. Karl is tasked with a mission that threatens his life.
As she seeks to protect her family and bring her husband's Prussian family to safety, Helen must find the courage and ingenuity to navigate prejudice and betrayal, pushing her love for Karl to the limit.
My Thoughts: Restoration by Jan Stirling Locke is a historical romance novel and the second book in the Von Werstein trilogy. Set in the 1940s, it follows the Von Werstein family as they navigate the turbulent aftermath of war. The story is told from multiple points of view, offering a well-rounded perspective on the struggles and triumphs of its characters. At times, it reads more like a memoir, with prose that flows effortlessly, making you feel as if you're eavesdropping on intimate conversations.
While the novel centres on love and the restoration of Germany, it is much more than that—it’s a story of deception, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. The characters, Karl and Helen, are beautifully crafted; they are both victims of circumstance and survivors in their own right. Stirling Locke doesn’t shy away from exposing the harsh realities of the time, yet she also captures moments of unexpected joy.
The writing is a masterful balance—brutally simple when it needs to be, yet richly descriptive at other moments, a testament to Stirling Locke's skill. The meticulous research shines through, bringing authenticity to the time, the settings, and the people, making it all feel vividly real.
Restoration is a true page-turner, full of twists and turns that kept me eager to discover what happened next. Stirling Locke has crafted a compelling narrative that is both haunting and hopeful, offering readers not just a story of love and restoration, but a profound look at the strength required to rebuild in the wake of devastation. If you enjoy historical romance with depth and authenticity, this is a book not to be missed.
🐙 Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt – Mystery
This one had heart. It was chosen by our book club for this months read. A charming, quirky read that took me by surprise with its emotional depth (and yes — the octopus is amazing).
Title: Remarkably Bright Creatures
Author: Shelby Van Pelt
Genre: Mystery literary contemporary family
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published Date: 2023
Book Length: 361
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: After Tova Sullivan's husband died, she began working the night cleaner shift at the Sowell Bay Aquarium. Ever since her eighteen-year-old son, Erik, mysteriously vanished on a boat over thirty years ago keeping busy has helped her cope. One night she meets Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus living at the aquarium who sees everything, but wouldn't dream of lifting one of his eight arms for his human captors – until he forms a remarkable friendship with Tova. Ever the detective, Marcellus deduces what happened the night Tova's son disappeared. And now Marcellus must use every trick his old body can muster to unearth the truth for her before it's too late...
My Thoughts: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt is a beautifully written novel that crosses multiple genres and was a recent choice for my book club.
The first part of the story takes its time introducing the characters, interspersed with musings from Marcellus the octopus. His unique perspective adds a layer of quirky humour that had me smiling more than once.
Tova is an incredibly well-thought-out and loveable character, and I found her interactions with Marcellus both tentative and touching. Their growing connection is a testament to Van Pelt's ability to craft authentic and heart warming relationships. Alongside Tova and Marcellus, we meet Cameron, Ethan, and Avery—each flawed yet charming, with their own set of anxieties, worries, and hopes that make them feel incredibly real.
This book is warm and fuzzy, brimming with feel-good moments, yet it doesn't shy away from themes of grief, survival, and hope. It’s a story of unlikely friendships, profound loss, and the small glimmers of light that can be found in unexpected places. Though it’s a slow burn, this pacing allows you to truly get to know the characters and become invested in their journeys.
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a heart warming and poignant tale that beautifully captures the essence of connection and redemption. Shelby Van Pelt weaves a story that is both tender and hopeful, reminding us that even the most unexpected friendships can change our lives.
This is the perfect read for anyone who loves character-driven stories with a touch of magical realism, fans of A Man Called Ove, or those who appreciate heart warming tales of community, healing, and unexpected friendships. If you’re looking for a book that’s both charming and deeply moving, this one is a must-read.
🧙♂️ Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling – Fantasy
A book I had to read for a course I am doing, I know I am late to the party on these famous books but better late than never and it reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place.
Title: Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone
Author: JK Rowling
Genre: Fantasy Action Adventure
Series: Harry Potter Series book 1 of 7
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Published Date: 1997
Book Length: 223
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Harry Potter has never even heard of Hogwarts when the letters start dropping on the doormat at number four, Privet Drive. Addressed in green ink on yellowish parchment with a purple seal, they are swiftly confiscated by his grisly aunt and uncle. Then, on Harry's eleventh birthday, a great beetle-eyed giant of a man called Rubeus Hagrid bursts in with some astonishing news: Harry Potter is a wizard, and he has a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. An incredible adventure is about to begin. J.K. Rowling's enduringly popular Harry Potter books continue to captivate new generations of readers. Harry's first adventure alongside his friends, Ron and Hermione, will whisk you away to Hogwarts, an enchanted, turreted castle filled with disappearing staircases, pearly-white ghosts and magical paintings that flit from frame to frame.
My Thoughts Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling is a fantasy action-adventure and the first book in the iconic seven-part series. It was released in 1997, and let’s be honest—who hasn’t heard of Harry Potter? It’s a global phenomenon. And yet, despite all the hype and familiarity, this was my very first time actually reading the book.
What can you possibly say about a story that has touched millions, that hasn’t already been said a thousand times over? I didn’t expect to be surprised. But I was. Completely.
The book began gently, introducing the Dursleys and then Harry, a boy who had no idea just how special he was. I found myself immediately drawn in. The way Rowling built Harry’s world—first the mundane, then the magical—was so immersive. Every character introduction felt purposeful and layered. I wasn’t just meeting wizards and witches; I was being welcomed into a hidden world, and each page made that world feel more real.
Rowling’s writing had a quiet magic of its own. She didn’t just tell me what Hogwarts looked like—I saw it. I felt the cold stone corridors, heard the rustle of cloaks, and smelled the feast in the Great Hall. Her descriptions brought me right into the heart of the castle, and I felt like I was walking alongside Harry, Ron, and Hermione, wide-eyed and full of wonder.
What struck me most was how the story, though written for younger readers, held a depth that I hadn’t expected. Themes of friendship, courage, and belonging wove through the adventure with surprising tenderness. I felt Harry’s longing for family, his tentative steps into trust and loyalty, and his bravery in the face of fear. It was more than just a fantasy; it was emotionally rich and honest.
Even though I knew the general plot from years of cultural osmosis but I have not seen the films, the book had a warmth and detail that opened up a new world. I smiled at the banter, gasped at the tension, and—yes—I teared up a little more than once, and don’t you just love Hagrid. It’s one thing to know about Harry Potter. It’s another thing entirely to experience his story from the very first page.
Reading Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone for the first time was like discovering a door I hadn’t realised was waiting for me all along. It wasn’t just a book—it was a journey into something timeless. I now understand why this series means so much to so many people. I may have come to it later than most, but I’m grateful I finally did. Because in that world of spells and potions, of bravery and friendship, I found a kind of magic I didn’t know I’d been missing. If you are one of the few that haven’t read it for one reason or another I highly recommend that you do.
A Quiet Death in Italy by Tom Benjamin – Mystery/Thriller
I picked this book up as part of my A to Reading challenge of a book beginning with the letter Q. It was moody, atmospheric, and very Italian. I loved the setting and the steady unravelling of the mystery — it was the perfect slow-burn.
Title: A Quiet Death in Italy
Author: Tom Benjamin
Genre: Political, Mystery Thriller
Series: Daniel Leicester series book 1 of 6
Publisher: Constable
Published Date: 2020
Book Length: 352
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Bologna: city of secrets, suspicion . . . and murder When the body of a radical protestor is found floating in one of Bologna's underground canals, it seems that most of the city is ready to blame the usual suspects: the police. But when private investigator Daniel Leicester, son-in-law to the former chief of police, receives a call from the dead man's lover, he follows a trail that begins in the 1970s and leads all the way to the rotten heart of the present-day political establishment. Beneath the beauty of the city, Bologna has a dark underside, and English detective Daniel must unravel a web of secrets, deceit and corruption - before he is caught in it himself.
My Thoughts: A Quiet Death in Italy is a political mystery thriller and the first book in the Daniel Leicester series—and what a start it is!
As I read through the story, I found myself completely immersed in the writing. The words felt like they came from someone who truly understands how to craft a narrative, and it made perfect sense when I discovered that Tom Benjamin had been a journalist. His prose is just beautiful—like an artist painting with words. The descriptions almost leapt off the page, so vivid and rich, they made it easy to picture each scene clearly.
One of the things I really appreciated was the inclusion of Daniel Leicester’s family life. It made him feel so much more real and relatable. Those glimpses into his personal relationships showed his flaws and vulnerabilities, which gave the story more depth and helped me connect with him as a character.
What I particularly loved was the contrast between Bologna’s stunning architecture and the gritty, criminal underworld that Daniel finds himself investigating. That clash of beauty and darkness added so much atmosphere. The way the setting was woven into the narrative felt so natural, and it really brought the book to life for me.
There were plenty of twists and turns along the way, too—just what you'd want from a mystery thriller. Each one added to the tension and kept me eagerly turning the pages.
All in all, A Quiet Death in Italy was a brilliant read—smart, atmospheric, and full of intrigue. I’m so glad I picked this up, and I’ll definitely be continuing with the series to see where Daniel Leicester heads next. If you enjoy a clever, character-driven thriller set somewhere a little different, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a go.
🌬 Mistral by Robert Cole – Psychological Thriller
Beautifully written and emotionally thoughtful, this one delved deep into memory, loss, and the weight of things left unsaid. Quietly powerful.
Title: Mistral
Author: Robert Cole
Genre: Psychological thriller mystery
Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishers
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 329
Format Read: E book supplied by Zooloos book tours in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: Adam’s wife, Maryanne, vanished without trace whilst on holiday in southern France, more than two years ago. Unexpectedly, he receives an enigmatic message. It prompts him to return to the scene of her disappearance. His efforts to piece together what happened force him to re-examine their relationship, coupled with his feelings of guilt. Retracing events that led to that fateful day, he soon learns that his return has not gone unnoticed, and his efforts to find Maryanne are far from welcome. Adam is joined in his search by Abigail, Maryanne’s daughter from a previous marriage. It is February. The mistral is battering the streets and dark corners of the ancient towns across this area of France. As more of Maryanne’s past is revealed, the search, enmeshed in a world of intrigue and deceit, with its past rooted in antiquity, becomes increasingly dangerous. They discover that some will do anything to stop them from uncovering the final, terrifying truth.
My Thoughts: I recently read Mistral by Robert Cole, and if you enjoy a slow-burning psychological mystery with emotional depth, this one might just be for you.
The pacing was steady throughout — not too fast, not too slow — but it definitely picked up towards the end, building tension just when I needed it. I found myself fully drawn into Adam’s world. He was such a grounded character, with this quiet resilience that really stayed with me. He couldn’t quite let go or move on, but instead, he brought calm to the chaos around him. He offered stability, carried himself with quiet dignity, and clung to hope, even when he had every reason not to. I really admired him for that — he felt like the emotional backbone of the story.
Abigail stood out too — independent, strong-willed, and sharp. You could sense the respect she had for Adam, and it was lovely to see how the sense of normality he brought to her mother’s life also made a difference to her own. Their dynamic added something special.
That said, I did find some of the sections around Maryanne — particularly her reluctance to open up about her past — a little repetitive at times. But I forgave that because the book had such rich historical detail woven through it, which I absolutely loved. It added depth and context, making the story feel rooted in something bigger than just the characters.
At its core, Mistral is about love, loss, and the search for answers — but it's also a story about the weight of things left unsaid and the ripple effects they can have. It was thoughtful, layered, and quietly powerful.
If you like character-driven mysteries with emotional threads and a touch of history, this one’s definitely worth a read.
📚 The Forgotten Book Club by Kate Storey – Family Saga
Bookshops, book clubs, secrets, and second chances — what’s not to love? This was a heart warming emotional read that gave me great bookish vibes.
Title: The Forgotten Book Club
Author: Kate Storey
Genre: Family saga
Publisher: Avon
Published Date: 2025
Book Length: 317
Format Read: Paperback
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Life can begin with a single story. You just have to Bring Your Own Book…
For three decades, Grace supported her husband Frank’s passion for books, despite not being a reader herself. Since his passing, their shelves echo longingly, and Grace’s heartache has only grown.
When Grace’s grandson suggests joining Frank’s old book club to feel closer to him again, Grace reluctantly agrees. Yet, upon arrival, she discovers this isn’t a typical book club: here, members settle in for an hour of reading… in silence.
Disappointed by the sparse attendance and confused by the lack of chatter, Grace flees. But when fellow member, Annie, convinces her to stay, Grace is determined to ensure that neither Frank – nor his beloved book club – are forgotten.
And as she breathes new life into the group, Grace might just find this is where she truly belongs. Because this next chapter of life could just be the beginning of her story…
My Thoughts: I was lucky enough to win The Forgotten Book Club by Kate Storey in a competition, and I’ll be honest—what drew me in straight away was the title and that gorgeous front cover. But once I started reading, I realised this book was so much more than a pretty face.
It’s one of those stories that’s both heart-wrenching and uplifting. I found myself tearing up at one sentence, then smiling with a warm glow the next. It really was an emotional rollercoaster, and I was completely along for the ride.
At the heart of the story are Grace and Frank—total opposites who somehow became each other's whole. But what happens when one half is lost? That question sits quietly in the background as we follow Grace, a beautiful, fragile, and determined character trying to make sense of life without her other half. I felt everything she felt. Kate Storey writes with such care and emotional insight, capturing every twist and turn with real grace (pun fully intended!) and intensity.
Although it’s a story about family, it’s also about so much more—grief, self-discovery, friendship, healing, and finding a way to move forward. I laughed, I cried, and I couldn't put it down.
In the end, The Forgotten Book Club left me feeling full of hope and reminded me how powerful stories—and book clubs—can be in bringing people together. If you enjoy emotional reads that really tug at the heartstrings, this one’s an absolute must. I can’t recommend it highly enough!
I definitely bit off more than I could chew in May, but I don’t regret a single page. There were new authors, unexpected gems, and books that lingered long after I turned the last page. If you’re looking for book recommendations for your own TBR pile, hopefully something here catches your eye.
Let me know if you’ve read any of these — or if one’s calling to you now! And here’s a little question to leave you with: Which book has surprised you most this year — and why? Drop me a comment, I’d love to hear 💬
Happy reading,
Alis x
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