I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
An aspiring rapper faces an uphill battle to share his “genius” music in author Dan Fongaro’s “Musicology: A Nocella & EP.”
The Synopsis
“An incisive investigation of delusion, ego, identity, performance, failure, and drive.”
Darwin just dropped out of college and released his first song. He drops two more controversial SoundCloud raps in his pursuit of stardom. Creating, uploading, and promoting his work comes at a price. His father exiles him. Those he trusts deceive him. DJs break promises. But Darwin will do anything to escape the Wall Street job that his well-connected father set him up with. His audience is hard to find. And New York City is a tough place to sustain yourself with no income. Even when his bank account runs lower than his fan count, he doesn’t give up on greatness. And greatness depends on how you define it.
Musicology’s three songs are available on SoundCloud and linked to the page with QR codes.
The Review
This was definitely one of the more unique and compelling novellas I’ve read in 2026. The author does a wonderful job of conveying the protagonist belief in their passion, while also showcasing the downfall of overconfidence, arrogance, and an unwillingness to grow and change. The author’s powerful way of writing allowed the reader to feel immersed in each scene, utilizing powerful imagery that really felt cinematic in a way.
What really stood out in this project was how the author was able to incorporate actual musical tracks from the protagonist into the chapters of this novella. A unique balance of humor and creativity, each track highlighted the protagonist from both a artistic perspective and as a character in general. This journey of self discovery, as well as a deeper exploration of the power of music has and how it resonates with people will keep readers enthralled in this narrative.
The Verdict
Memorable, fast paced, and highly entertaining, author Dan Fongaro’s “Musicology: A Novella & EP” is a must read novella the infuses, humor, drama, and a heart for music. The twist and turns in the protagonist, personal journey, the character driven narrative, and the deeper exploration into the art in passion for music as a whole as well as the amazing tracks included with this book will keep readers engaged until the very last page. If you haven’t yet, please be sure to grab your copy today!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman must contend with long buried secrets that could shake the foundations of her entire family in author Robert Hoffman’s “Taken to the Grave.”
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The Synopsis
Maria Abrams has always needed answers. A college professor with a gift for logic, she believes that if you dig long enough, the truth will rise to the surface. But when she turns her relentless curiosity toward her own family, she unearths more than she bargained for: a web of secrets her mother carried silently to the grave.
A precious gift from her favorite niece reveals a hidden relationship and its lasting consequences, Maria’s pursuit of clarity collides with the resistance of relatives who would rather leave the past buried. Her journey takes her from small-town New York to séances with reluctant mediums, forcing her to confront uncomfortable truths about loyalty, betrayal, and the fragile bonds that hold families together.
Taken to the Grave is a layered family mystery about identity, silence, and the cost of uncovering what was meant to remain hidden. At once intimate and suspenseful, it asks the ultimate question: when does the truth set us free, and when does it break us apart?
The Review
This was a compelling and gripping read. The tension and drama that unfolds as the story progresses will keep readers on the edge of their seat, and the powerful imagery the author uses in their writing felt almost cinematic in nature, allowing readers to be immersed in the world the author brought to life on the page. The balance of character dynamics and powerful themes was on point in this narrative, as these characters helped drive the story forward and kept the reader invested.
Yet it was the themes and the story itself that really shined the brightest. The harsh realities that our parents are people too and are often holding onto their own secrets from the world, including their own families, is a hard pill to swallow, and the realization also comes with many doubts about one’s identity and place in the world. The fear is that discovering a secret that changes everything isn’t the worst thing, but the way that secret reframes the relationship you had with a person and/or your memories of them is. The emotional depth of the protagonist’s exploration of this secret and the ultimate revelations it brings to life will leave readers breathless.
The Verdict
Compelling, thrilling, and memorable, author Robert Hoffman’s “Taken to the Grave” is a must-read contemporary drama. The twists and turns this story takes and the emotional journey the protagonist goes on, as well as the shocking revelations and heartfelt connection between the protagonist and their late mother will keep readers both emotionally invested and on the edge of their seats as these revelations come to pass. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
It’s about time somebody asked that question. Rob Hoffman is originally from a town on Long Island called North Massapequa. He attended SUNY Oswego where he majored in Communications, a degree that it turned out he had little use for. He did however meet the woman who would eventually become my wife, the former Michelle Lindell. Rob and Michelle lived in the aptly named Flushing, Queens for six years before moving to a town called Clifton Park, New York just south of Saratoga Springs. Finding little value in his degree in communications, Rob became a social studies teacher, teaching in Long Island City, Queens for four years before spending the remainder of his career in Rensselaer, New York, a small city on the banks of the Hudson River just across the water from Albany. Rob taught for 31 years before retiring in June of 2021, only to come back as a part-time teacher in September of 2021 at Rensselaer High School. Rob had always been interested in becoming a writer and he began his blogging career as a contributor at the “Times Union” of Albany for six years. In this time Rob also blogged for a variety of sites including Fark.com, Crooks and Liars.com, Albany.com, and Knees and Fists.com. Rob has remained happily married to Michelle for 34 years and counting, and has two grown sons, Andrew and Alex, ages 29 and 23. Most recently, Rob and Michelle became grandparents to the newest addition to the family, Sam Hoffman, son of Andrew and his wife Katie.
“Blind Spot” represents Rob’s first true attempt at writing fiction, an experience Rob both fun and exhausting. Rob had thrown around several ideas as he began to think about what it was he wanted to write about, and then one day his wife had sent him to the supermarket on an errand where he saw somebody he really didn’t want to spend anytime talking to, so he raced out of the store, got in his car, turned it on, slammed it into reverse and was about to speed out of the spot when he stopped himself and said, “Dumb-ass, be careful, you could hit somebody.” Then, as Rob began to slowly and carefully pull out of his parking spot, he thought for another second and it occurred to him how ironic it would be if he accidentally hit the person he was trying to get away from and “Blind Spot” was born. The character of Doug Kaplan, while not autobiographical, is sort of based on the best and worst of Rob’s traits. Doug is at times the guy Rob always wanted to be, and yet at the same time, Doug also represented the guy Rob was relieved to know he never became. The other characters according to Rob are combinations of people that he knew from his childhood, as well as college and work experiences.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A group of friends must navigate the dangers of exposed secrets in the midst of a media storm in author Sherry Brantley’s “Best of Friends Trilogy.”
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The Synopsis
The Fabulous Five , Elizabeth, Kim, Kiona, A.J. and Quineeta, were bound together by secrets they’d all collectively swore to carry to their graves. Not a word to anyone outside of their close-knit, circle of trust. But with the ‘Dastardly Duke Discovery’ exposing the ‘Secret of the Blanket,’ will the Fabulous Five find themselves desperately being consumed in a modern-day media frenzy that is threatening to consume them?
Will the Fabulous Five be able to survive the onslaught of the public revelation of their past deeds? Or will they crumble under the weight of their unexpected circumstances? And upon introspection and personal reflection–will they be able to confront their own conscious with the long-ago, secret vows they agreed to as a group?
With the uncovering of the ‘lost necklace’ and their seemingly apparent connection to it, will this group of close-knit friends continue to stand united? Will they be able to successfully maintain their semi-innocence? Or will the damaging ‘circumstantial evidence’ prove to be a hurdle they did not create; and surely cannot escape?
Travel with the Fabulous Five: Elizabeth, Kim, Kiona, A.J., and Quineeta as once again, they attempt to weather the storms of adversity that threaten to decimate their bond, their friendship, their past! Will the ‘Dastardly Duke Discovery’ prove to be the final nail in their coffin? Or will they vow to continue to ‘deny ’til they die,’ their involvement in the dark mystery they’re shrouded in?
Read the much-anticipated finale` of the ‘Best of Friends’ trilogy, for the explosive conclusion of this series that leaves no stone unturned!!
The Review
This was such a compelling and gripping series. The trilogy does an incredible job of creating these intersecting webs of storylines that take the reader on an emotional and relatable journey. The heart and passion for which the author crafts these narratives and the natural way the author infused elements of spirituality into the story and the character’s lives was heartening as well. The books did a great job of delving into the lives of these friends in an innovative way, first bringing readers the present day storyline in Best of Friends that begins with a tragic loss and evolves into the complicated lives each of the friends lives through, then by going back to the moments these secrets were formed in Before Best of Friends, and finally seeing the aftermath and how these friends lives evolve in the wake of so many secrets being found in Still Best of Friends.
To me, the character dynamics and worldbuilding the book took on was equally matched by the strong themes of the narrative. Elizabeth in particular was a strong protagonist, and a relatable one, as her loss and her protective nature are tested by not only her secrets but her need to constantly keep the peace amongst both her friends and her family, and the weight of that burden finally taking her to her breaking point felt so relatable for so many different readers. The strong themes explored in this narrative, from the power of secrets and lies to the nature of friendship and so much more, not only highlighted the fact that everyone has secrets, no matter how seemingly perfect a person’s life seems, and the emotional depth that shows how friendship such as the Fab Five’s is sometimes all a person needs in order to get through these difficult moments in life. The balance between the friendships and each woman’s particular romantic pursuits and/or failings was well rounded and kept the reader invested throughout the entirety of this narrative.
Imaginative, relatable, and enthralling, author Sherry Brantley’s “Best of Friends” trilogy is a must-read. The book felt like a more mature, adult version of the acclaimed We Were Liars series with a splash more humor and spirituality. The powerful dynamic between the friends, the complicated lives they lead and relationships they have in their own lives, and the memorable imagery in the author’s writing really brought each book together well, and felt like a perfectly meshed and cohesive tale that readers will deep dive into time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Sherry Brantley is an author/speaker and Certified Life Coach specializing in: “From Goal-Setting to Goal-GETTING!’ Her STEPP book is based on a program she developed. S.T.E.P.P.- Start To Exercise Personal Power, which details how one can tap into their Personal Power to effect positive change in their lives on a daily basis, while respecting the Personal Power of others.
Her explosive trilogy, ‘Best of Friends,’ won National Awards for Best Fiction of the Year! Meet the ‘Fabulous Five.’ Elizabeth, Kim, Kiona, A.J., and Quineeta as once again, they attempt to weather the storms of adversity that threaten to decimate their bond, their friendship their past! Will the ‘Dastardly Duke Discovery’ prove to be the final nail in their coffin? Or will they vow to continue to ‘deny ’til they die,’ their involvement in the mystery they’re shrouded in?
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman pushes herself to experience more of life after the sudden loss of her mother in author Caitlin Forbes’s “What Comes Next.”
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The Synopsis
An empowering and heartfelt novel about the complexities of family, the power of sisterhood, and the bravery it takes to choose happiness when all seems lost.
“My life is perfectly fine.”
Alex has pretended this for years―despite an emotionally absent father, a best friend drifting away, and a floundering dog-training business. At least Alex has her sister, Meredith, a driven polar opposite. But both their lives are upended when their estranged mother dies of a genetic condition that the sisters have a fifty-fifty chance of inheriting. For Alex, a world without her mother is uncomfortable. But a world without Meredith is unthinkable.
Alex suggests a pact to which Meredith tentatively agrees: In three months they’ll get tested. Until then they go after everything they’ve ever wanted. Alex is finally stepping out of her comfort zone and opening herself up to new relationships. Or maybe reconnecting with an old one. Nathan, a boy who once broke her heart, needs a trainer for his mixed-breed rescue. Alex can’t resist.
As sparks rekindle, and time passes much too quickly, Alex discovers more about herself, her sister, and her mother than she ever imagined. And that everything in life―especially happiness―comes with a risk worth taking.
The Review
What a heartfelt and emotional read. The author finds such a delicate yet perfect balance between exploring the grieving process, the intricacies of relationships, and the power of self-discovery. The juxtaposition of animal care with the protagonist’s life, especially with Remy and the frequency of animal abandonment due to past trauma, making it difficult to train or home them, mirrors the protagonist’s own abandonment issues and really speaks volumes throughout this story.
Yet it was the relationship between Alex and Meredith that really stood out to the reader. The way they learned to lean on one another in the absence of their parents, the loss they share, and the shock of a shared illness lingering as a possibility is something that felt so relatable as someone who inherited several ailments and the dangers that come with genetic diseases. The author artfully navigates these troubled waters by exploring the path to finding hope again in a person’s life amidst the trauma.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Caitlin Forbes’s “What Comes Next” is a must-read women’s fiction-meets-family-drama novel. The imagery and atmosphere the author brought to life on the page, along with the compelling blend of emotional storytelling and hopeful tones, will keep readers engaged until the book’s final chapters. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Photography by Molly Haley, mollyhaley.com
Caitlin Forbes is a Maine-based author who writes stories that explore the messiness of relationships—from sisterhood to romance to the tricky relationship we have with ourselves. When not writing, you can find her chasing after her toddler (or her dog) and exploring small-town New England life.
Join us at the Muffin as we celebrate the launch of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes. We interview the author and give you a chance to win a copy of the book.
Stop by B. Lynn Goodwin’s blog for a guest post by author Caitlin Forbes about the question of inheritance – of what we inherit versus what we get to choose.
Stop by Katherine’s blog for her review of What Comes Next by Caitlin Forbes. You’ll also have a chance to read her response to our tour-themed prompt about whether if she had an incurable condition and if she would want to find out.
1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I’m a 55-year-old with a 35-year career in sales, life coaching, and building and leading teams. Writing has been a passion of mine since childhood, and only now have I found the courage to publish my first book.
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2) What inspired you to write your book?
I was inspired to write my book by my friend’s and my own life experiences and the challenges I’ve overcome along the way. Writing has always been a way for me to process emotions and share stories, and I wanted to turn that into something that could resonate with and hopefully empower others.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The main message is that no matter how difficult life gets, there is always a chance to start over and find your way to well-being.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I was drawn to this genre because the subject of physical and emotional abuse in relationships remains relevant year after year and many people are stuck in unhappy life.
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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
I would ask her how she managed to rise up again and again after everything she went through, because that strength truly inspires me.
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
TikTok
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
Be brave and trust your story and yourself!
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I’m currently waiting for the audiobook version of Not Here Anymore to be released, and there will definitely be a sequel to this first book — with more books to come in the future.
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About the Author
Welcome – I’m Sienna Ross, author of bold stories that follow people through love, loss, escape, and reinvention.
My writing blends raw truth with atmospheric storytelling — from violent pasts to distant cities, from painful goodbyes to unexpected strength.
I come from very humble beginnings, yet I started working at 17 and built my path through success in sales, team building, and leadership. As a licensed life coach, I have supported many people in overcoming obstacles and stepping into their true potential. My book carries the same mission: to remind readers that no matter the hardships, we all have the power to rise and create a life of strength and purpose
If you believe that stories can heal, challenge, and empower — you’re in the right place.
Through my work, I help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and find the courage to move forward even when life feels unbearable. With a rare combination of business insight and human empathy, I bring authenticity, depth, and inspiration to my writing.
My book reflects this mission—it is more than just a story; it is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, it is always possible to rebuild, heal, and create a meaningful future.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Two women discover a shocking secret about their mothers in author Susan Mallery’s “Otherwise Engaged.”
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The Synopsis
A twisty, tender and wise look at how secrets can transform the powerful—and sometimes problematic—bond between mothers and daughters, from #1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery.
When Shannon gets engaged, her beloved mom, Cindy, is the first person she wants to tell—and the last. Cindy’s engaged, too, and has already hinted at a double wedding. The image of a synchronized bouquet toss with her mom fills Shannon with horror. She’ll keep her engagement a secret until Cindy’s I-dos are done.
Victoria has never been proper enough for her mother, Ava, so she stopped trying. She lives on her own terms and amuses herself by pushing Ava’s buttons. Ava loves but doesn’t understand her stuntwoman daughter. When a movie-set mishap brings Victoria home, Ava longs to finally connect.
Chance brings the four women together at a wedding venue, where a shocking secret comes tumbling out. Twenty-four years ago, desperate teenager Cindy chose wealthy Ava to adopt her baby—then changed her mind at the very last second. The loss rocked Ava’s world, leaving her unable to open her heart to the daughter she did adopt, Victoria. As Shannon and Victoria deal with the fallout from the decisions their mothers made, they wrestle with whether who they are is different than who they might have become.
The Review
This was such a compelling and engaging women’s fiction read. The author does an incredible job of crafting a rich and dynamic plot that steers away from the usual upbeat and quirky reads for which the author may be known, and instead delves into the complicated relationships between mothers and their daughters. The imagery in this book was stunning, bringing the locations, primarily the venue that brought them all together to begin with, into vivid and clear detail while also building tension in the air between the four women as events unfold.
The heart of this narrative was the character dynamics that the author explores in this book. The tension, especially between Ava and Victoria, drove this story forward, exploring the complexity of adoption and its impact on the familial bond, while also highlighting the moments in life when a person looks back on the path not taken and wonders what could have been. The story also explored the complexities of parenthood and how often parents strive to help or put their child on a particular path of clarity, while also missing the path their child wants for themselves. These characters perfectly articulated that struggle.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, author Susan Mallery’s “Otherwise Engaged” is a must-read in women’s fiction. The way the author incorporates romance into the story in a natural way through character progression rather than pertinent story arcs, and the way the story elevates powerful themes and heartfelt emotional storytelling, will stay with readers long after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
SUSAN MALLERY is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of novels about the relationships that shape women’s lives―family, friendship, romance. Library Journal says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations,” and readers seem to agree―40 million copies of her books have sold worldwide. Her warm, humorous stories make the world a happier place to live. She’s passionate about animal welfare, which shows in the many quirky animal characters she has created. Susan grew up in California and now lives in Seattle with her husband and adorable poodle. Visit her at SusanMallery.com.
Victoria Rogers pressed her good arm to her very bruised, almost broken ribs. “Dad, don’t,” she said, trying to stay as still as possible. “You can’t be funny. It already hurts to breathe. It wasn’t a horse.”
Her father frowned. “I was told you were thrown off a horse.” “I was thrown out of a truck.”
“Then how’d you get the black eyes?”
“The ground was a little bit pissy when I hit it and punched me back.”
There wasn’t a part of her that didn’t hurt. The good news was that now that the medical staff had determined she didn’t have a head injury, they were going to give her drugs to help with the pain. She’d already said she didn’t want any of that weak-ass pill stuff. She wanted a nurse to give her a shot of something that would work instantly and let her rest. Because in addition to the bruised ribs, requisite scrapes and contusions, she had a broken left leg and a sprained wrist. Her previously dislocated shoulder also throbbed, but that was kind of the least of it.
As she lay in her hospital bed, feeling like death on a tortilla, she had the thought that maybe stunt work wasn’t for her. Injuries came with the job, but this was the third time in five years she’d landed in the hospital. The first time she’d messed up, so that was on her, but the other two had just been plain bad luck. The incident with the truck had come about because one of the tires had blown, causing the however many ton vehicle to jump the curb—an action that had sent her flying up and over the side. Gravity, being the bitch it was, had flung her onto the sidewalk. Hence the injuries.
Her father studied her, his brows drawn together in concern. “None of this makes me happy,” he told her.
The incongruous statement nearly made her laugh. She remembered—just in time—that her ribs wouldn’t appreciate the subsequent movement and they would punish her big-time.
“Today isn’t my favorite day either,” she admitted, trying not to groan. “I didn’t wake up with the thought that I should try to get thrown out of the back of a pickup.” Although technically getting thrown out of the truck had been the stunt. Just not when it had happened and without warning or a plan.
“I’m worried,” her father told her.
“I’ll be fine.”
“This time.”
She winced, and not from pain. “Now you sound like Mom.”
Her father, a handsome man only a few months from his sixtieth birthday, brightened. “Thank you, Victoria. That’s such a nice thing to say.”
Given her weakened condition, she let that comment slide. Honestly she didn’t have the strength to deal with it right now, even though she knew her father understood exactly what she’d been saying. He was only pretending to not get it.
“If you’re going to act like that, you should go,” she said, then amended what could be construed as a catty comment into something more kind. Mostly because she only had the emotional energy not to get along with one of her parents, and her mother had already claimed that prize. “Besides, they’ll be bringing my drugs any second. I plan to surrender to sleep, so I’m not going to be very conversational.”
As if to prove her point, one of the nurses walked in with a syringe. “Ready to feel better?” he asked cheerfully.
“Yes, and let me say, you’re my favorite person ever.”
He winked. “I get that all the time.”
He slowly injected whatever the medication was into her IV. Victoria drew in a shallow breath as she waited to feel that first blurring of the edges of the pain. Modern medicine was a miracle she intended to embrace.
The nurse left. Milton took her good hand in his.
“I’ll let you rest,” he told her. “But I’ll be back later tonight.” He squeezed her fingers. “Tomorrow, when you’re released, I’m taking you home.”
Ugh. Victoria knew that her father wasn’t talking about the pretty condo he’d bought her when she’d turned twenty-one. Instead he meant the house where she’d grown up. The one where her mother still resided.
“I don’t need to move back,” she protested, feeling the first telltale easing of the pain. “I have a few bumps and bruises.”
“Along with a broken leg. And what about your ribs? You can barely move without wincing.”
“I have zero pain tolerance. I’m a total wimp.”
He frowned. “You’re tough and stoic. If you’re showing signs of pain, it’s bad. You’ll stay with your mother and me until you’re well enough to be on your own.” He pointed at her. “I mean it, Victoria. You don’t get a vote.”
Her father was rarely stern with her, so his sharp tone warned her he wasn’t kidding. And she knew from twenty-four years of experience that arguing with the man would get her nowhere. Milton didn’t take a stand very often, but when he did, he was the immovable object.
“I wish you loved me less,” she murmured, feeling a little floaty and stumbling over her words. “Okay, I feel drugs. Let me enjoy the experience of breathing without, you know, wanting to die.”
Oh, baby girl. You’ve always been difficult.”
“I know. It’s one of my best qualities.” Her eyes drifted closed. “Love you, Dad.”
“Love you more.” He kissed her cheek. “I’ll see you tonight.”
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman must navigate life in a small town and find solace in a group of women in 1960s South Dakota in author Kristine Jensen’s “Wednesday Club.”
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The Synopsis
A heartfelt coming-of-age novel set in 1963 South Dakota, Wednesday Club is a work of historical and women’s fiction that explores inter-generational friendship and the power of finding home where you least expect it.
Ivy Hanson is pretty sure her life is over. At sixteen, she’s been dumped at her grandparents’ South Dakota farm while her mother chases Hollywood dreams. Stuck with a critical grandfather and a rural life she doesn’t understand, Ivy is isolated, friendless, and desperate to escape.
Then, her grandmother ropes her into the Wednesday Club, a group of six women who gather once a month to swap gossip, tackle community projects, and make sense of the turbulent world of 1963. Each of these women carries her own struggles, including Tillie, the aspiring artist stretched thin by motherhood; quirky Etola, desperate to find a husband; and Hattie, whose past holds painful secrets.
Over the months, Ivy navigates harsh realities—romantic disappointment, small-town life, and a terrifying experience with a horse—and through it all, the Wednesday Club women offer her something unexpected: a sense of home she’s never known. But when Ivy stumbles upon a shocking family secret, it threatens everything.
Told with humor and heart, here is proof that every woman needs a Wednesday Club.
Perfect for book clubs! Ideal for fans of Elizabeth Berg, Jojo Moyes, and Elizabeth Strout.
As vivid and gripping as a movie, Wednesday Club is an uplifting tale of unlikely friendships, where a teen girl finds belonging among a band of unforgettable older women.
The Review
This was such a heartfelt and emotional read. The author possesses a unique ability to write in a way that is both straightforward in delivery and yet nuanced, filled with emotional depth, and speaks to the greater story and character arcs being conveyed. The author expertly captures the rural farm setting and the 60s era with ease, delivering a cinematic quality that feels like a moving women’s fiction miniseries that would be found on Hulu or Netflix today.
The heart of the narrative was in the dynamic character development and connections the author makes between them, as well as the use of multiple POVs in the story. The growth and evolution of protagonist Ivy in this story as she comes to know nd understand what family and life is truly meant to be is remarkable, and the way the author gives each member of the community, especially the Wednesday club, a chance to shine and bring their own unique journey to life in this story was naturally done to allow the story to feel still cohesive and engaging.
The Verdict
Heartfelt, compelling, and emotionally-driven, author Kristine Jensen’s “Wednesday Club” is a must-read women’s fiction novel. Filled with heart and community, the exploration of social dynamics and family ties, as well as the quiet strength that so many women led their lives with during a tumultuous time, made this a remarkable story to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Kristine Jensen is a lifelong storyteller whose career has included writing scripts, screenplays, and narratives for some of the world’s most recognizable brands. With a talent for bringing characters and ideas to life, she has spent decades distilling complex ideas into language that resonates.
Born and raised on a farm in South Dakota, Kristine found the spark for her debut novel in a box of handwritten club minutes kept by her grandmother—records of a real-life women’s group that met for more than sixty years. That discovery blossomed into Wednesday Club, a novel about inter-generational friendship, quiet resilience, and the search for belonging.
Now living in Oregon, Kristine writes fiction that honors women’s inner lives and the quiet beauty of small-town communities. You can learn more about the true Wednesday Club that inspired her work and the movement to create Wednesday Clubs everywhere at her wednesday-club website.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman must learn not only to survive but thrive in the aftermath of trauma and a haunting past in author Sienna Ross’s “Not Here Anymore.”
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The Synopsis
Not Here Anymore tells the compelling, emotional journey of Katherine, a woman who escapes a violent past, only to realize that unresolved trauma will continue to haunt her. After enduring toxic relationships, she embarks on a journey across several countries in search of healing from trauma and a new life. As she confronts her deepest fears, Katherine discovers that survival is not just about running; it’s about empowerment, rebuilding and self-discovery.
Through heartbreak, loss and life-altering challenges, including the tragic death of a loved one and the painful reality of a miscarriage, Katherine must navigate the scars of her past. Yet, even in the face of overwhelming grief, she learns that true emotional resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about finding the strength to thrive. This gripping story isn’t only about escaping abuse; it’s about the inspiration to heal and create a new future, no matter the darkness that comes from previous wounds.
Not Here Anymore is a deeply moving and authentic women’s fiction novel that captures the heartache of domestic abuse and the strength it takes to rebuild a life. Set against the backdrop of various cultures like Belgium, Italy, Cuba this domestic thriller offers an international perspective, bringing an emotional depth to the story. The journey Katherine undertakes is as much about survival as it is about discovering the power within herself to move beyond the pain.
Key Features:
A powerful, emotional journey of a woman escaping a toxic relationship.
Themes of survival, empowerment and resilience are the heart of the story.
Set in international locations, adding depth and a cinematic quality to the narrative.
Inspiration for women a must-read for anyone seeking strength after hardship.
An emotional rollercoaster, blending psychological thriller with personal growth.
This psychological thriller combines raw emotion with suspense, making it a page turner that’s both engaging and impactful. Readers will find inspiration in Katherine’s transformation and her relentless pursuit of a life defined by empowerment rather than fear. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has faced life’s challenges, reminding us all that healing from trauma is possible and happiness is still within reach.
Perfect for fans of:
Survival thrillers
Contemporary women’s fiction
Psychological suspense
Domestic thrillers
Inspiring stories of resilience and renewal
The Review
This was a compelling domestic thriller meets suspense novel. The harrowing experiences and tension that the author layered into each chapter of this novel were chilling and heartbreaking, yet interspersed with glimpses of hope and resilience. The powerful imagery and honest, authentic dialogue between the characters keep the readers engaged as the story progresses.
The heart of this novel was in the character development, especially for the protagonist, Katherine. The realities and struggles of domestic violence and stalking that so many women have to face in this world are not only expertly woven into this story, but they also bring a haunting reality to the narrative. Yet, the themes of strength through survival and transformation were beautifully executed. Despite loss and struggle, the way this protagonist picked herself up time and again made this a memorable read.
The Verdict
Haunting, compelling, and engaging, author Sienna Ross’s “Not Here Anymore” is a must-read domestic thriller meets suspense narrative. The twists and turns that this story takes, the emotional weight of grief, loss, and empowerment, are explored. The shocking cliffhanger finale will leave readers eager for another installment featuring this endearing and moving protagonist. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Welcome – I’m Sienna Ross, author of bold stories that follow people through love, loss, escape, and reinvention.
My writing blends raw truth with atmospheric storytelling — from violent pasts to distant cities, from painful goodbyes to unexpected strength.
I come from very humble beginnings, yet I started working at 17 and built my path through success in sales, team building, and leadership. As a licensed life coach, I have supported many people in overcoming obstacles and stepping into their true potential. My book carries the same mission: to remind readers that no matter the hardships, we all have the power to rise and create a life of strength and purpose
If you believe that stories can heal, challenge, and empower — you’re in the right place.
Through my work, I help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and find the courage to move forward even when life feels unbearable. With a rare combination of business insight and human empathy, I bring authenticity, depth, and inspiration to my writing.
My book reflects this mission—it is more than just a story; it is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, it is always possible to rebuild, heal, and create a meaningful future.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
An author on the rise risks losing everything when a stalker threatens to expose her greatest secret in author Hank Phillippi Ryan’s “All This Could Be Yours.”
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The Synopsis
Is a debut author’s blockbuster bestseller about to ruin her life? A glamorous book tour becomes a deadly cat-and-mouse chase in this new and captivating thriller by “master of suspense” (Publishers Weekly) and USA Today bestselling author Hank Phillippi Ryan.
Debut sensation Tessa Calloway is on a whirlwind book tour for her instant bestseller, All This Could Be Yours. In a different city every night, Tessa receives standing ovations from adoring fans while her husband Henry and their two children cheer her on from their brand-new dream house.
But there’s a chilling problem with Tessa’s triumphant book tour—she soon discovers she is being stalked by someone who’s obsessed not only with sabotaging her career, but also with destroying her perfect family back home.
Tessa fears the fallout from an impossible decision she once made—what felt like a genuine deal with the devil—appears to be coming due. And she’s realizing that every high-stakes bargain comes with a high-stakes price. If Tessa can’t untangle who’s threatening to expose her darkest secrets, she’ll lose her career, her family—and possibly her life.
The Review
This was such a compelling mystery read. The author did a great job of infusing suspense and drama into every chapter of this novel. The tension could be felt immediately, as both the protagonist and the novel’s main plot took on a life of their own on the page and commanded the reader’s attention. The way the author was able to capture the whirlwind experience of life as a full-time author, both in terms of inspiration for their stories and the marketing and publicity for more successful stories, makes this a fascinating read.
The heart of this narrative was in how the author explored this protagonist. The complexity of this character’s arc, from the joy and fulfillment that she feels having launched her successful author career, to the fears and doubts she feels being alone on the road for the tour and the guilt of her past haunting her on top of it all, made the narrative sing with a chilling atmosphere and slowly creeping tension as the mystery behind a stalker and their purpose make the outcome that much more powerful as events explode on the page.
The Verdict
Haunting, visceral, and entertaining, author Hank Phillippi Ryan’s “All This Could Be Yours” is a must-read suspense thriller. The honesty in the author’s writing style and the slow buildup of tension in the narrative help elevate a strong and emotionally charged plot with an equally powerful protagonist that will stay with readers as the shocking final chapters emerge. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
USA Today bestselling author HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN has won five Agatha Awards (including for Truth Be Told and The Wrong Girl) five Anthony Awards, the Daphne, the Macavity, and the Mary Higgins Clark Awards. As on-air investigative reporter for Boston’s WHDH-TV, she’s won thirty-seven Emmy Awards and many more journalism honors. A past president of national Sisters in Crime, a founder of Mystery Writers of America University, and a board member of International Thriller Writers, Ryan lives in Boston.
