More book reviews – October 2024 reads you will love
There’s something magical about getting lost in a book. Whether you read one book a year or 100 a year I am sure you do it because you love the adventure it takes you on. I enjoy reading paper books but also listening to audiobooks and I have some exciting news, I’m ordering a new Kindle this week for my birthday! I am so excited!
If you’re on the hunt for must-read books, you’re in for a treat. I’ve enjoyed some real page-turners recently, and I’m eager to share them with you.
The Bigamist by Mary Turner Thomson
Imagine discovering that your husband is not only unfaithful but also has another family. That’s the shocking reality Mary Turner Thomson reveals in The Bigamist. This gripping true story will leave you on the edge of your seat as you follow Mary’s emotional and legal battle. The raw honesty in her writing makes it a compelling read, and you’ll find yourself rooting for her every step of the way.
It’s not just about the drama, though. The book offers a deep insight into human behaviour and the complexities of relationships. It’s a must-read book for anyone who enjoys true crime and personal stories. Plus, it serves as a reminder that truth can be stranger than fiction.
For those new to true crime, this is a gripping place to start. You’ll gain a newfound respect for the resilience of the human spirit and perhaps an extra cautious eye on the people around you. That said, you might also, like me, be baffled that someone believed so much, however of course domestic abuse and controlling behaviour is like a dripping tap and slowly takes over.
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
If psychological thrillers are your cup of tea, then The Housemaid will keep you hooked from start to finish. Freida McFadden weaves a tale of suspense and mystery as we follow the protagonist navigating the eerie mansion she works in. Every page seems to have a twist, making it nearly impossible to put down.
The characters are well-developed, each with their own secrets and motivations. You’ll find yourself questioning who to trust and what lies beneath the surface. It’s an enthralling must-read book that keeps your heart racing and mind guessing.
Perfect for those who love to puzzle out a good mystery, this book proves that sometimes the scariest monsters are closer than we think. And, if you’re reading on a Kindle, you’ll want to ensure it’s fully charged—trust me, you won’t want to stop. I am yet to read the two others in the series but looking forward to them later this month.
A Killer of Influence by J D Kirk
Mystery lovers, gather around! A Killer of Influence by J D Kirk is a thrilling detective novel that explores the dark underbelly of society. With sharp wit and engaging storytelling, Kirk introduces us to the determined detective duo tasked with solving a mind-bending case.
The intricate plot keeps you invested, and the characters’ chemistry adds a layer of depth to the narrative. If you’re looking for a book that keeps you guessing with every chapter, this one’s for you. It’ll have you playing detective alongside the protagonists, piecing together clues and unravelling the chilling mystery.
I really enjoyed this one however as a blogger/influencer myself it was a little strange to read too!
The Attic Child by Lola Jaye
Prepare to be moved by Lola Jaye’s The Attic Child. This profound story spans decades, following two children trapped in the same attic at different times. Their journeys are interwoven, touching on themes of hope, resilience, and the search for identity.
Jaye’s storytelling is evocative, painting vivid pictures of the characters’ struggles and triumphs. It’s a poignant reminder of the power of hope even in the darkest of times. This book will tug at your heartstrings and stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
For those who appreciate emotional depth and historical context, this book is a treasure trove. It’s a gentle nudge to reflect on our own stories and the unseen ties that bind us to the past. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it’s insight into the world of a child leaving the Congo in the early 1900’s and how moving to London away from his family changed his life, and not always for the better.
Trigger warning – Child Abuse.
The Turn Of The Key by Ruth Ware
Ruth Ware never disappoints when it comes to crafting suspenseful narratives, and The Turn Of The Key is no exception. This modern gothic thriller draws you in with its atmospheric setting and cleverly constructed plot. The story follows a nanny navigating a high-tech house with unsettling secrets.
The author has an ability to create constant tension and intrigue, making every chapter a mini cliff-hanger. You’ll find yourself questioning the reliability of the narrator and the true intentions of the characters. It’s a must-read book for those who enjoy a spine-chilling mystery.
The psychological twists combined with an eerie ambiance make this a perfect read for a stormy night or Halloween. Just remember to leave the lights on!
The Serial Killer Next Door by Emma Kenny
Dive into the chilling world of true crime with Emma Kenny’s The Serial Killer Next Door. This book explores the unsettling reality that dangerous individuals can exist right under our noses. Through detailed cases and psychological analysis, Kenny sheds light on the minds of these killers.
The narrative is both informative and captivating, offering insights into the factors that drive such behaviour. If you’re fascinated by criminology and psychology, this book is a must-add to your reading list. It challenges preconceived notions and encourages readers to question the ordinary.
Kenny’s engaging writing ensures that even complex topics are accessible to all readers. It’s an eye-opening exploration of the darker side of humanity, reminding us to stay vigilant. If you enjoy her YouTube Channel then you will definitely enjoy this.
How to Kill Your Family by Bella Mackie
Bella Mackie’s How to Kill Your Family is a satirical novel following a cunning protagonist with a vendetta against her wealthy relatives. The witty and irreverent tone isn’t really my cup of tea but you might love it.
The story is strange and at times I felt drawn out however it’s a reminder that sometimes, laughter is the best medicine—even when plotting murder. That said, whilst I enjoyed elements of it, this book definitely wasn’t my favourite and I would say the reviews I read on Goodreads are pretty accurate, you will either love it or hate it, there isn’t much in between, I thought it was ok but having read this I wouldn’t rush out to read any other of her books!
The Second Chance by Charlotte Butterfield
Charlotte Butterfield’s The Second Chance offers a heart-warming tale of love, self-discovery, and second chances. Follow the protagonist as she navigates life’s unexpected twists and turns. After living her life believing she had a death day and when that day comes and she goes to sleep, happy that she has closed off every aspect of her life, given away everything she owns and wearing a ballgown in a hotel. When she wakes up the next morning she has to work out what to do and how to rebuild a life she thought would be gone!
If you’re in need of a feel-good book that leaves you with a smile, this is a perfect choice. It’s a celebration of resilience and the beauty of new beginnings. I would say it is quite predictable at times and if you can get past the “coincidences” that can’t possibly be possible then you will enjoy it.
Message Deleted by K L Slater
K L Slater delivers a gripping psychological thriller with Message Deleted. The story follows a woman caught in a web of secrets and lies after discovering an eerie message on her phone.
The plot twists and turns, creating an atmosphere of suspense. It’s a must-read book for those who love uncovering hidden truths and unexpected revelations.
With a blend of mystery and psychological tension, this book is perfect for fans of thrillers. Just be prepared for a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you peel back the layers of deception. I have read most of K L Slater’s books and this is just as good as the others.
The Witching Hour by Syd Moore
Enter a world of magic and mystery with Syd Moore’s The Witching Hour. This book mixes together elements of history, folklore, and modern-day intrigue. Follow the main character as she uncovers the secrets of her past and embraces her heritage.
Moore’s vivid descriptions and imaginative storytelling create an immersive reading experience. It’s a blend of fantasy and reality, making it an irresistible read for those who love the supernatural.
The book’s enchanting themes serve as a reminder of the magic that exists within and around us. Whether you’re a fan of witches or simply curious, this book is sure to cast a spell on you.
I read this book for the Gothic themed month at book club and I enjoyed it, whilst I wouldn’t rush to read more of Syd Moore’s books, I wouldn’t object either.
The Late Train To Gipsy Hill by Alan Johnson
Alan Johnson’s The Late Train To Gipsy Hill is a crime novel set in the midst of political intrigue and danger, the story follows a man who unwittingly becomes embroiled in a high-stakes conspiracy.
The intertwining plotlines and well-drawn characters create an interesting narrative with elements of Russian mafia and crime. I started this book a few months ago when our book club had “spy” month, I read about two thirds of it but got bored of it and finished it this week. Whilst it was well written and reasonably ok story, it just wasn’t really my cup of tea.
One More To Die by Joy Ellis
Joy Ellis is an author with a few good books I have previously read, this is a chilling psychological thriller, One More To Die. The story revolves around a detective racing against time to stop a cunning killer.
The tension builds as the detective navigates a web of deceit and danger, each twist more jaw-dropping than the last. It’s a must-read book for those who love solving a complex mystery. It is currently only available on Audible so I listened to this one, it was free with my membership and ok but I am not sure I would have loved it as much if I paid for it in all honesty.
The Sisters by Claire Douglas
Claire Douglas explores the complexities of sibling relationships in The Sisters. This psychological thriller follows a woman who feels responsible for the death of her twin sister. She meets a set of twins and that is where it all starts to go wrong.
It is an emotionally charged and suspenseful read. The tension between the characters keeps you engaged, as loyalties are tested and truths are revealed. I enjoyed this book but I am not sure if I will read the others in the series or not yet.
Modern Slave by Gaia Cooper
Gaia Cooper’s Modern Slave is a true story of a girl who at the age of 14 is groomed by a criminal gang and ends up involved in credit card fraud, drugs and more. The book explores the reasons she was vulnerable to be groomed due to her family dynamics and the appalling way the police and social services didn’t help her as much as they should have.
A fascinating insight into the modern world of drugs, grooming and criminal networks.
Trigger warnings for drugs, rape, violent assaults.
Day One by Abigail Dean
Abigail Dean’s Day One is amazing and I thoroughly enjoyed it. During the Day One concert at a local school there is a shooting and many children and their teacher are killed. Who is involved and who is hiding where they really were at the time. This is a really gripping story I did not want to put down.
I had previously read Girl A by the same author and didn’t think she could top that but this was equally good if not better! I would definitely recommend it.
The Couple in the Photo by Helen Cooper
Helen Cooper’s The Couple in the Photo offers a thought-provoking exploration of love, memory, and self-discovery. The story follows a woman who stumbles upon a photograph from her colleagues honeymoon which shows her friends husband and another woman. Trying to find the truth behind it isn’t as simple as it seems.
With murders, alibis and confusion around how people could possibly be linked it all comes together with a surprising end. It’s a reminder that the past has a way of shaping our present and future. I really enjoyed this book and struggled to put it down.
Conclusion
And there you have it, some amazing books that have captured my heart and imagination, and some I didn’t overly enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers, mysteries, or heartfelt tales, there’s something here for everyone. These must-read books have added a touch of excitement to my reading list, and I can’t wait to explore even more with my brand-new Kindle!
Remember, the joy of reading is in discovering new worlds, perspectives, and stories. I hope these book reviews inspire you to pick up a new favourite and get lost in its pages. Happy reading, fellow book lovers! After buying my Kindle I reviewed it for you so do feel free to read what I think of the latest Kindle Paperwhite if you are considering buying one.