Review - The Last Train from Paris by Suzanne Kelman

The Last Train from Paris by Suzanne Kelman

Publisher: Bookouture

Release date: 1 October 2026

Back cover blurb: Paris, 1943: Charlotte clutches the children tightly to her as they board the train. “Don’t worry,” she whispers to them softly. “I will get you to safety, I promise…”. Charlotte Villette watches in horror as the train leaves the station in a cloud of smoke. Five innocent children stare back at her through the glass, tears running down their cheeks. She promised to keep them safe but, now they have been separated by the Nazi guards, how can she protect them? For days, Charlotte searches for the missing children. They know the plan was to travel to her aunt’s village, but could they really find it on their own? When she finally arrives, she is overjoyed to see them. But joy soon turns to fear when she discovers the Nazis are already searching the property, and they must run for safety once more. When she meets Luc, a Frenchman with his own scars from the war, he offers to help them. As the weeks pass, Charlotte begins to trust him. Sitting with him in the candlelight once the children are asleep, she realises his quiet kindness and bright blue eyes have made her feel safe for the first time in years. But just as she’s wondering whether there can be light in the darkness of war, a Nazi officer she fears from her past steps back into her life, threatening everything she has fought to protect. How far will Charlotte go to protect those she has grown to love? And will she be brave enough to make the ultimate sacrifice to save them?

The Last Train from Paris is the last in a series of books about 'the Paris Sisters', which I did not realise when I started it. However, I did not feel that I didn't understand what was going on, and it didn't detract from my enjoyment, despite not having read the others in the series.

WW2, Paris, Charlotte Villette is responsible for Five children that are not hers. She must get them to safety across ocuupied France, otherwise they may lose their lives to the Nazi regime. 

Luc is bought in to help, he is reluctant at first. He has suffered the terrible loss of his wife and his daughter, and doesn't want to be close to the children, but deep down he knows that being in the resistance, and helping these kids is the right thing to do.

One of the Five, Kurt is a German Jew whose religious text falls out of his pocket at the train station and his life and Charlotte's are endangered as they lose the rest of their party. Is their journey over before it has begun?

Years later Sophie's (one of the five) daughter, Esther brings the survivors together as she believes it will help Sophie who is in the early stages of dementia. 

Of course she knows it will be difficult for them all, but she doesn't realise just how many secrets they might have been holding on to, and how trauma can make you misinterpret how things might have happened in the past.

Add in a local documentary maker who wants to showcase the past in a beneficial way to his own family, and it becomes difficult to understand the real truth...

The Last Train from Paris is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my requst via Netgalley in excahnge for an honest review.

Review - A Game of Cat and Killer by Jiro Akagawa [Translated from the Japanese by Haydn Trowell]

A Game of Cat and Killer by Jiro Akagawa [Translated from the Japanese by Haydn Trowell]

Publisher: Quercus Books
Release date: 24 September 2026
Back cover blurb: Detective Yoshitaro Katayama is afraid of many things: heights, dark spaces, blood and . . . women. When a young female student is found murdered, he's given two choices - review the harrowing crime-scene photographs or head to Hagoromo Women's College to investigate - and reluctantly opts for the latter. But the murders don't stop, and soon Katayama has a different surprise on his hands: a calico cat named Holmes, orphaned her owner falls victim. Surely that's the last thing Katayama needs. Until Holmes begins to display some uncanny investigative instincts of her own . . . Introducing one the most iconic investigative duos in crime fiction - a hapless detective and his capable cat - A Game of Cat and Killer is a must for all readers of Japanese cat fiction and classic crime.

A Game of Cat and Killer is the first in Jiro Akagawa’s long-running Mikeneko Holmes series, originally published in Japan in 1978 and now translated into English by Haydn Trowell. 

Detective Yoshitaro Katayama, a rather unlikely Police Detective who has followed in his late Father’s footsteps is our lead protagonist.

Unlikely because it probably wouldn’t have been his own choice of career. Particularly as he is scared of heights, and rather inconveniently for a detective, blood.

He is also extremely nervous of the opposite sex. 

Unfortunate when he is about be the lead detective on a murder investigation at a women only college!

When a student at Hagoromo Women’s College is murdered, Katayama is sent to investigate. Before long the College Dean is also dead, apparently murdered in a room that has been locked from the inside. 

A locked room murder mystery if you will...

The Dean leaves behind his faithful companion, Mikeneko (calico) cat, Holmes, who attaches herself to Katayama and helpfully lends a paw to Detective proceedings. 

What follows is a complex set of murders that need urgently solving. Is there an intellectual serial killer on the loose, or is the truth closer to home?

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to hopefully reading more in the series.

A Game of Cat and Killer is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - Seek Immediate Shelter by Vincent Yu

Seek Immediate Shelter by Vincent Yu
Publisher: Duckworth Books
Release date: 6 August 2026

Back cover blurb: BALLISTIC MISSILE THREAT INBOUND. SEEK IMMEDIATE SHELTER. THIS IS NOT A DRILL. One ordinary morning, in an unexceptional town, every mobile phone lights up with the same emergency alert. 

In this compelling, darkly funny and moving debut novel, each of Vincent Yu’s utterly relatable, flawed characters is given a choice: in the face of mutually assured destruction, do we reach for grace and mercy or do we hold on to hate and fear? 

Seventeen minutes later the town learns via text that it was a false alarm and the question changes. Can we forgive each other for what’s been said and done when the world didn’t actually end?

Seek Immediate Shelter - this is not a drill. 

What would you do if you got this message?

It's a theme explored brilliantly in a book I read last year, 59 Minutes by Holly Seddon. This tackles the same subject, but in a very different way.

I've seen some poor reviews of this book, which I actually think are unfair.

We know what we are going into when we start this, we already know that this is a false alarm, and that we are exploring the stories of different characters, some of whom whose lifes are entwineed, some not. 

Some have said it’s difficult to follow the different stories, but I don’t think it was at all. And I liked how they were intertwined with each other, sometimes without even knowing it.

I don’t think it’s any coincidence that this book was published on 6 August. The anniversary of the atomic bomb being dropped on Hiroshima in 1945. 

Something to really make us think about the horrific use of these weapons and the destruction and devastation that they cause.

The way that the threat of them terrifies people. Partly due to the unknown. And partly due to what we do know, about Hiroshima.

This is a thought provoking book that I actually really enjoyed. 

Seek Immediate Shelter is available now via Amazon online and all book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - Liesel's War by Corin Burnside

Liesel's War by Corin Burnside
Publisher: HQ Digital 
Release date: 13 August 2026

Back cover blurb: April, 1945. Hamburg is a city on the brink of collapse, and Liesel Heinemann is caught in the storm of war. Once a promising student of translation, she is now a reluctant interpreter for the Nazis, her life irrevocably altered by the horrors surrounding her. Everything changes when she saves a British soldier who has lost his memory in a tank explosion. Naming him ‘Tommy’, they set off with Liesel’s two brothers on a treacherous journey westward, seeking refuge and the hope of finding their mother in England. With danger lurking at every turn and the realities of war weighing heavily on her heart, Liesel discovers that love can bloom even in the darkest of times. Growing closer to her British soldier against the war-torn landscape, Liesel must make tough decisions to keep her family alive. In a world torn apart by war, love and hope become guiding stars on their desperate journey.

Liesel is a young woman who has already seen too much. Her Mother has fled the country, her Father has passed and her too young brothers are at risk of being called into Hitler's army.

As the end of the War looms, and Allied troops enter her home town, Liesel is more concerned than ever for the family's future. 

German's across the world have been given a terrible name during the conflict, no matter what their belief or heritage.

But when Liesel sees a young man injured and left for dead just metres away from their apartment, she cannot stand and watch him die alone. So she does the unthinkable. 

She brings an injured party from an enemy country into their home.

She knows it is dangerous, and her Brothers are resentful of her actions. But Liesel knows it is the good and right thing to do. 

There is also part of her that feels a loyalty to the British, as their Mother is English.

The injured soldier is unable to remember his name, and so they agree to call him 'Tommy'. 

As Liesel nurses him back to health, she wonders if he could help the family to be reunited with their Mother, as so begins an unbelievable journey that continues to the end of the War.

Liesel's War is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - Tell Me Something True by Michael Robotham

Tell Me Something True by Michael Robotham

Publisher: Sphere 

Release date: 29 September 2026

Back cover blurb: I look along the road and notice how many people are standing outside their houses or watching from doorways and windows. Staring. Studying. 'Do you think this town will ever forgive me?' I ask. 'Not in a million years.' Small towns are quick to anger and slow to forgive, but Arlo Hackett doesn't expect mercy when he emerges from a twelve-year prison sentence and makes his way back to Yulara, a waypoint on Australia's Great Southern Road. The last time Arlo was home, his brother Luke was charged with a terrible crime and Arlo was found guilty by association. His return to the former goldrush town is like cracking open a time capsule full of hatred and violence, along with memories of the people he loved - the ones he couldn't save. Yulara wants Arlo gone, or worse, but every insult and humiliation pushes him to confront what really happened all those years ago. The truth will shock you, surprise you, and break your heart.

Arlo Hackett is about to be released from prison, for a crime he didn’t commit. 

He is guilty by association. 

The true perpetrator of the crime his younger brother Luke, or so the court found. 

After twelve years, Arlo must return to his hometown of Yulara to be with his Mother, and take over the care of their family home.

Arlo knows that he won’t be welcome. Yulara is a small town, and people don’t forget easily. Especially when it concerns the rape and murder of a young girl.

But Arlo is surprised at the level of animosity that he receives. Especially when he tries to protest his and his brother’s innocence, which he is certain of.

It makes Arlo wonder if someone knows more than they are willing to admit. It would make sense, if someone was hiding something that they are so determined that Arlo leave Yulara for good. 

Preferably without asking questions.

But Arlo feels that he owes Luke. The younger brother that he failed to protect in his time of need. And if he upsets the people of Yulara whilst he’s searching then that’s just bad luck.

Tell Me Something true is a dark tale of small town life, whose characters will really get under your skin.

Tell Me Something True is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - The Bestseller by Jenny Knightsby

The Bestseller by Jenny Knightsby

Publisher: Headline

Release date: 10 September 2026

Back cover blurb: Therapist Helena Salve knows that client confidentiality is the number one unbreakable rule of her job. But the constant stories of coercive control and threat she hears from her client Belle about her dangerous husband have been wearing her down. One night over too many glasses of wine, she tells her best friend Tala everything that Belle has told her. The problem is, Tala is a down-on-her-luck novelist who is looking for an idea for her new thriller. Months later, Tala is excitedly telling Helena that her publisher is saying this is going to be her biggest book ever. The story is Belle's story. Not only is Helena's job on the line, but if Belle's husband is as dangerous as she says, her life is too... Why would Tala do this to Helena? She knows what's at stake. Your friends are meant to protect you... aren't they?

I cannot tell you how much I loved this book! It is so so good. And bound to be a bestseller - no pun intended!

Therapist Helena Salve is no stranger to complex and difficult domestic abuse cases. Her latest client Belle is showing classic signs of being coercively controlled by her frankly evil sounding husband Julius. 

Belle is obvlious to this, and is only attending therapy sessions at the behest of her sister. 

Helena is affected more by Belle than she has been by any client before. 

Something about Belle’s case has really gotten under her skin, but she can’t figure out what. 

Helena has been best friends with Tala since University, they tell each other everything, and Helena would trust Tala with her life. So when she has a glass of wine too many and tells Tala about her latest client. depsite her breach of patient confidentiality she thinks nothing of it.

Until Tala's newest novel hits the shelves, detailing events that only Helena knows about. Her novel is very clearly about Belle, and her relationship with Julius.

Believing she is the victim of the worst kind of betrayal, Helena turns to her long suffering husband for comfort, and support. 

But what if the ultimate betrayal lies closer to home?

The Bestseller is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - To All the Men I've Killed Before by Katy Brent

To All the Men I've Killed Before
Publisher: HQ Digital 
Release date: 27 August 2026

Back cover blurb: If a man hurt your best friend – like, really hurt her – what would you do? Key his car? Or hunt him down and chop him into little pieces? Tough decision, I know. I’ve tracked this lowlife to LA and brought my little sister Antoinette along for the ride. I'm trying not to be irritated that she's found a taste for murder and is leaving body parts all over our hotel. Because this girls’ trip needs a Hollywood ending. And of all the men I've killed before, this one will be the sweetest…

Kitty Collins is not your average serial killer. She only kills men for a start. 

Bad men.

The dangeorus rapists, and mysogynists of the word. She usally kills alone. It's safer that way clearly. 

Lessens her chances of getting caught.

But now her step sister wants in on the act, after Kitty inadvertently reveals her criminal self to her.

So they find themselves off to Hollywood in search of Kitty's best friends ex. Who literally tried to kill her when she was cautious about having sex with him.

Rightly so, it seems!

Kitty is out for revenge, and it won't be pretty.

Unfortunately (for them), Hollywood is full of disgusting perverts, so Kitty's step sister decides to rid the world of a few whilst they are there.

I mean, why pass up the opportunity of a lifetime...

I love Kitty, she is awesome, and I can't wait for the next one in the series - that is, I mean, I'm hoping that there is one.

After all, she has a fan club now and everything...

To All the Men I've Killed Before is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - Eyes on You by Adele Parks

Eyes On You by Adele Parks

Publisher: HQ

Release date: 27 August 2026

Back cover blurb: Be afraid. Someone’s watching. At fifteen, Amy witnessed her father brutally murder his secret lover. Her testimony sealed her father’s fate. With him in prison, Amy and her mother must rebuild their lives in the shadow of a notorious crime. Years later, Oliver Harrington walks into the restaurant where Amy works. Just like Amy, Oliver has a past he’d rather forget. Amy is drawn to him at a profound level; they feel a connection, an understanding… This seems a lot like love, but does it hide something darker – an obsession that could lead Amy into a web of deception and violence she thought she’d escaped? As the truth looms ever closer, Amy must confront a harsh reality: where there is love, there is often betrayal.

Regular readers of my blog, will know that I'm a huge fan of this author. But I would never let that influence an honest review.

I’m not entirely sure that I can find the right words to say how much I loved this book. Which is partly why it’s taken me so long to write this review (work being the other reason!)

When Amy witnessed her Father brutally murder his mistress at the age of just fifteen, it altered the course of her life, forever.

Years later, Amy, now Hannah Smith is working in a noodle restaurant, the type popular with families and students, not the well dressed suits of the City.

So when Oliver Harrington and his work colleagues come into the restuarant, Amy notices him immediately, not only does he look out of place because of his obvious wealth. But he is also the best looking man she has ever seen.

Amy is the kind of young woman who doesn't really believe in love, especially not at first sight. She has seen to much life for that. Her usally 'romantic' encounters and are of the fast and dirty kind, where you don't ever plan on seeing the other person again.

So when she falls hard and fast for Oli it takes her, and those around her completely by suprise. Her friends, family and work colleagues tell her to be careful. That someone so utterly perfect must be too good to be true.

For Amy this advice is too little, too late. She is already head over heels, and nothing can stop her from getting what she wants. Oli also has a past that he wants to forget about, so they are literally perfect for each other, right?!

Perhaps not ...

That's all I can possibly say, as I really want you to experience this beautiful thriller for yourself. It has so many twists and turns! I literally read it in a couple of hours as I could not put it down, I was too invested. You will not be disappointed.

Eyes On You is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Review - the Ruins by Becky Docton

The Ruins by Becky Docton
Publisher: HQ
Release date: 13 August 2026

Back cover blurb: Devon, 1937. Lucie, just seven years old, newly arrived in England, watches blood drip from her mother’s hem as she crosses the footbridge to the train that will snatch her out of her life, the words, ‘Don’t leave me,’ captured in her throat. Clifford glances at the small girl sitting beside him as they drive back to The Ruins, the ancestral home Lucie has never known. Once alive with weekend parties, croquet and swimming in the lake, ‘These days, nobody is happy here,’ Clifford tells Lucie. Enid, in the vast, dark kitchen, clutches a cigarette and a sour drink, her violet eyes appraising the new arrival like a spider intent on a fly. She murmurs, ‘She’s got Kyte in her. Looks like Ruth.’ But this is not a compliment. Ruth seethes with rage as she studies her own lovely face in the mirror of her cabin, aboard the ocean liner that will carry her and the husband who has betrayed her away from her daughter and back to Malaya. ‘Plenty of mothers do this,’ she tells herself. As Lucie pieces together the story of her family and the mother who vanishes from her childhood, she will make unlikely friendships and discover the joy of imagination; and in the years that follow, will tread a precarious line taking her to unexpected places, both in herself and the rapidly changing world around her.

The Ruins is a beautifully written novel spanning pre-war England, and post-war Ceylon (Sri Lanka).

'You won't like it here', is Lucie's introduction to the Ruins. At just Seven years old she is being sent to live with a family member, Clifford, prior to spending the next decade or so at boarding school.

Having been in England for a family funeral, her Mother is travelling back to be with her husband and their business aboard. She doesn't want to leave her young daughter, but she doesn't have a choice.

Lucie is wise beyond her years, an avid reader, and extremely intelligent. She feels immediately out of place at the Ruins. Unloved and unwanted. A feeling that only grows worse as she writes to her Mother and recieves no reply.

She doesn't want to go to boarding school, she wants to be with her Mother, but Lucie also has no choice.

In time she learns to be herself at school, and grows close to Clifford and some of the house staff when she is home for the holidays. But she still misses her Mother.

As war breaks out in Europe, Lucie's desire to be near her Mother grows stronger, but news is not forthcoming. 

As the war continues, Lucie fears the worst and realises that she must learn to life her new life to the full, or risk losing everything.

The Ruins is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank you to the publishers who approved my request in exchange for an honest review.

Review - The French Resistance Hotel by Ava Miller

The French Resistance Hotel by Ava Miller

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Release date: 13 August 2026

Back cover blurb: On the border between Nazi-occupied France and Switzerland sits a small hotel. Inside, the staircase marks the divide between the two countries. For some, this staircase will become the difference between life and death... France, 1940: Eloise arrived at the Hotel Cordier several years earlier, in the eastern town of Sainte-Béline, straddling the frontier between Switzerland and France, looking for an escape. But when the Nazis invade, everything changes. Trapped under occupation, Eloise finds herself drawn to the local resistance - and to André, its charismatic leader. André is determined to use the hotel's unique position to save as many refugees fleeing persecution as he can. It doesn't take long before the Germans start closing in. Facing the threat of discovery and the shadows of her past, Eloise must decide how much she is willing to risk to save innocent lives. Even at the cost of her own...

Eloise is battered and bruised, both literally and emotionally when she arrives in Sainte-Beline. But she has managed to settle into a relatively quiet and calm existence.

Until the Nazi's arrive.

Eloise works at the local school with Julien, whose Sister, Marie is the propierier of local hotel, the Hotel Cordier. 

The hotel has a special intrigue for the occupying forces as half of it is in the now occupied France, and the other in neutral Switzerland.

When the local Doctor is attacked, simply for being Jewish, Eloise knows that she should do something to help. She just doesn't know what. 

Until Marie's brother, Andre returns, having escaped from a camp, and tells his Sister he is now part of the resistance.

Marie is shocked, but not surprised, for her younger brother has always been a keen risk taker. She doesn't want him to involve her, Julien or Eloise at first. But the others are keen to understand how the hotel might be able to help.

Finally, they are all agreed. It is a dangerous plan that they have made, but they believe it is the right one. They can't just sit back and do nothing. 

And so begins an extraordinary story of bravery, risk and the brutality of War.

Based on the true story of the incredible hotel Arbez, the French Resistance hotel is one of those books that I didn't want to end, and it's characters will stay with me for a long time. 

The French Resistance Hotel is available now via Amazon online and all good bookshops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - Invitation from a Dictator by Rory Clements.

Invitation from a Dictator by Rory Clements

Publisher: Viking

Release date: 13 August 2026

Back cover blurb: ON THE EVE OF WAR, A ROYAL GUEST IS LURED INTO HITLER'S DEADLY WEB . . . Munich, 1937. The Duke and Duchess of Windsor have arrived in Germany, due at Hitler's mountain retreat at any moment. But that night, a string of attacks devastate the city, soon claimed by the rising Communist group, Red Freedom. Brutal and bloody in their methods, there's no doubt that Edward, Wallis and their host at the Berghof are their next target. They are put in the urgent care of Detective Sebastian Wolff, but the choice between protecting the prince and fighting for his own politics becomes all the more complicated when Wolff realises who is behind Red Freedom: Ulrike, his first love and the mother of his son.

I do love Rory Clements' books, and this one is no exception.

Munich, 1937: Detective Sebastian Wolff is asked to look after the Duke and Duchess of Windsor who are due to meet Hitler at his personal mountain hideaway.

Disgraced and disowned by the British Royal family, the pair already have a target on their back before we even talk about the fact that they might be Nazi sympathisers.

Seb is on the lookout for a communist gang, the so-called 'Red Freedom' group. They are as brutal as the Nazis that they despise, and the ex-royals are likely on their new hit list.

Seb is not at all happy to have been assigned this role, though he understands ultimately how important it is. The thought of having to get up close and personal with the Führer is not on his list of fun things to do.

Meanwhile, his personal life continues to be a source of concern for him. He and his partner are struggling to conceive, and then Ulrike, his first love and Jürgen's Mother appears seemingly from nowhere, and not in a good way.

She has always had 'interesting' political views and now Seb worries that she might be tied up with the Red Freedom group, and unwittingly be putting all of their lives in danger.

Invitation from a Dictator is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publisher who approved my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - My Sister's Secret by Jane Corry

My Sister's Secret by Jane Corry

Publisher: Penguin

Release date: 18 June 2026

Back cover blurb: Two sisters, bound by a secret that could tear them apart . . . Rosy is the responsible sister. Amy is the free spirit. But between them lies a secret; one they've sworn to keep safe, whatever the cost. When Amy confides in James, her new psychiatrist, he begins to suspect one sister is covering for the other. Instinct tells him to run, but his own dark past draws him ever closer to the two women, and they to him. As cracks form in the sisters' facade, something becomes clear: three's a crowd, and one of them has to go.

What if your Father leaving wasn't the worst thing to happen to you?

Even if you are forever convinced otherwise?

Rosy and Amy have the kind of complicated relationship that only siblings can. 

That relationship becomes even more difficult if one of you isn't of particularly sound mind.

Rosy's younger sister, Amy is in a rehab centre for mentally ill patients having suffered a catastrophic breakdown when their Father left the family home. 

Rosy always knew that Amy was fragile, but she never really realised just how fragile she was until she visits her a few years after the incident that left her institusionalised. 

Amy has a new psychiatrist. 'Call me James' is charming, offering his patients music therapy, playing the saxaphone when Rosy visits Amy and meets him for the first time.

He is handsome, charming and charasmatic. 

Rosy is instantly smitten, but Amy is also rather taken with him, and doesn't take kindly to Rosy's interest in him.  Before long the pair of them are both in too deep.

But is he too good to be true?

My Sister's Secret is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - The Housewives of Atomic Lane by Andie Newton

The Housewives of Atomic Lane by Andie Newton

Publisher: One More Chapter 

Release date: 7 August 2026

Back cover blurb: Four housewives. One quiet street. A Cold War secret that could destroy everything. In a town built around America’s most secretive nuclear site, housewife Betty Mahoney knows the rules: don’t ask questions, and don’t listen too closely. But when the Beckers move in, Betty and the other wives start to notice things. Headlights in the dark. Whispered voices on the wind. A beautiful new neighbor with too many secrets – and it’s not long before suspicion turns into something far more dangerous. As the women close in on the truth, they must risk their marriages, their freedom, and even their lives… Inspired by the author’s own family history.

Nothing ever happens on Atomic Lane. The wives all just play cards and bake whilst they await their husbands' return from work.

At least, that's what an outsider would have you believe. 

But the real housewives of Atomic Lane are much more than just housewives.

They are discreet and efficient spies, tuned into the danger of the work that their husbands are doing, and on the look out for anything or anyone that might be suspicious.

This novel opens with immediate intrigue, Betty, Winnie and Sandra about to be pulled over by the Police in the dead of night.

Weeks earlier, we meet the Beckers, who have just moved onto Atomic Lane. Something about the couple, just seems off. 

Though Betty can't put her finger on exactly what. She knows that she needs to meet Mrs Becker to help her.

When they hear their husbands discussing a missing safe that could contain something deadly, the wives spring into action. They know that the Beckers are somehow involved, they just need to be able to prove it.

As secrets and lies start to unravel, the wives must be careful how they approach the situation...

For America is in the middle of the Cold War, and one wrong move could have devastating consequences for everyone. 

The Housewives of Atomic Lane is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approve my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - the Truth of Us by Sara Cox

The Truth of Us by Sara Cox
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton
Release date: 16 July 2026

Back cover blurb: Manchester, 1982. The houses on the street are almost identical but number 51 has always been slightly neater, a shiny penny next to number 49. The people inside have their differences too but still their lives are entwined, most especially for young girls Abi and Christy. From questionable fashion choices, illicit nights out and doomed romances, growing up together they share everything. Including the secret that eventually tears them apart. Two decades later, Abi's life is one of marriage, family and stability. Christy, always the wilder of the two, has travelled and partied and risen high in the world of TV. Until, unexpectedly, they're living next door to each other again. Is it finally time to confront the past and speak the truth?

Firstly, I really hope that this book has a sequel, or that the characters appear in some sort of follow up as the ending for me felt a little bit abrupt.

But let me clear, I absolutely adored this book and genuinely didn't want it to end, hence my disappointment. 

Abi and Christy have the kind of friendship that everyone dreams of growing up. 

Best friends that live next door to each other, and share a birthday! 

They are living the dream.

Abi and Christy's friendship is stronger than most. They navigate a hell of a lot together. 

First crushes, first kisses, fashion faux pas. 

You name it, they have shared it at some point.

Now they are both older, but not necessarily any the wiser. 

Abi is married with kids of her own, and a husband she doesn't much like anymore. Christy is single, living the good life as a hotshot TV producer. 

They both want more. 

Suddenly they find themselves living next door to each other again as Christy returns home for a family emergency. 

Can they pick up where they left off? 

Or has too much changed between them?

The Truth of Us is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via Netgalley in excahnge for an honest review. 

Review - Buyer Beware by Catherine Ryan Howard

Buyer Beware by Catherine Ryan Howard

Publisher: Bantam

Release date: 16 July 2026

Back cover blurb: When Ellie moves into 1 Delaney Row, all she has to her name is the house, a small suitcase and the terrible secrets she’s desperate to keep. But what she doesn’t know is that her new home is already hiding someone else’s secrets – and the people determined to keep them are watching her. When a grim discovery prompts Ellie to find out more about the house’s past, she unwittingly puts herself on a deadly collision course not just with her new home’s history, but with her own as well… Inspired by so-called ‘stigmatised properties’ – houses with dark and violent pasts – Buyer Beware is an intricate puzzle-box of a thriller with a pulsing emotional heart, from an author at the very top of her game.

When Ellie moves into her new property, all she has is the house itself to her name. 

She has no money, no clothes and a terrible secret that needs to be kept.

But the walls seem to have eyes and ears and do not want Ellie living there...

Someone tries to break in the first night she is there, and her neighbours desperately want to help.

But she is terrified of them discovering her past, and doesn't want to let them in. Though she msut for her own safety.

The thing is, Ellie has been to prison.

Albeit for a crime that she didn't mean to commit, a terrible accident that ended up costing her everything. 

But a crime was committed nonetheless. 

And now it seems that someone wants revenge. 

This will keep you guessing until the very end. 

This is one of those books that I can't say too much more about as I don't want to give anything away, but it's a brilliant read, and I highly recommend it.

Buyer Beware is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via NetGalley in exchnage for an honest review.

Review - the Night Stairs by Erin Kelly

The Night Stairs by Erin Kelly

Publisher: Harvil

Release date: 9 July 2026

Back cover blurb: St Cordula’s Catholic boarding school has survived for centuries on tradition, discipline and silence. Now its future is under threat, and Deputy Head Fiona Fox is preparing to lead the controversial change that could save it from ruin. But St Cordula’s has always had rules of its own. Legend has it that the ghost of fifteenth-century nun, Sister Matilda, will keep the school safe. But only as long as the words ‘GOD FORGIVE ME’, scrawled by Matilda on a chapel staircase wall before she fell to her death, remain. Every year, the words are repainted. The only time they were allowed to fade, in 2002, a terrifying outbreak of vertigo swept through the pupils. One girl died on the night stairs. And only three people know what really happened. Now the vertigo is back, and as panic sweeps the school, Fiona must confront a dark secret from her past. Or face the deadly consequences…

St Cordula's Catholic School for Girls is about to go kicking and screaming into the modern day, through a partnership with the local Catholic boys school.

After a scandal involving some of its priests - I'm sure you can guess the rest ... the boys school is keen to make a fresh start.

But St Cordula's is about to have a long ago scandal of its own resurface when one of its pupils is struck down by the 'spins', a vertigo phenomenen that affects people in very close proximity with each other, like a boarding school.

Deputy Head Teacher, Fiona Fox was once a pupil at St Cordula's and she was there when the last attack of the 'spins' struck, resulting in tragedy. But no one knows she is a former pupil, and no one must find out.

Years earlier Becks, Jessica and Kylie are navigating the bullies of St Cordula's whilst trying to save it from closure due to its financial situation. There is a ghost supposedly haunting the abbey attached to the school. The spirit of Matilda who fell to her death on the 'night stairs'.

Possibly the first victim of the 'spins'. 

When the girls risk their lives by climbing the night stairs years later, they can't possibly understand the danger that they have put themselves in or what might follow.

Twisty, turny and expertly written combining years of tradition with modern tech and evolution, I loved this latest offering from Erin Kelly.

the Night Stairs is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - the Project by Annie Lord

The Project by Annie Lord

Publisher: Harvill

Release date: 16 July 2026

Back cover blurb: Daisy and Maya bounce around the city like they own it, from all-night house parties to sticky-floored smoking areas, drinks in hand. But after a particularly regrettable one-night stand with her annoying friend James, Daisy starts to look around and wonder why, in a sea of intelligent, gorgeous women, all their prospects seem so hopeless. It’s time for The Project, a radical reinvention of dating, and who better to start with than James? James may be raw material, but he’s quite happy to go along with Daisy and Maya if it means a little more time alone with Daisy. But falling for James was never part of Daisy's Project - can she bring down her walls enough to let someone in? Because she might not find someone perfect, but she might find something real.

Daisy has loved Fin for as long as she can remember, but each time she thinks that they can make it work, he introduces her to his newest girlfriend.

James, who they have known since Uni, is the guy that gets all the girls. But he doesn't always treat them how he should.

Maya, Daisy's best friend and work colleague decides that they need 'a project' to find the perfect man.

James, ends up being part of the project. Unquestionaly fuckable, and charming. You could possibly take him home to meet your Mum. But then he might break your heart by fucking your best friend..

There a lot of imperfections to work on.

The end goal is, that James becomes perfect and able to take home (and keep) any girl he wants.

Not so ideal timing then for Daisy to realise that it's James and NOT Fin who is the one for her. 

He is the one that thinks she's funny, beautiful and smart. He gets her sense of humour, he thinks she's gorgeous, he just gets her.

But as always with James he has other girls interest in him, and Daisy has SO many insecurites with men.

With a little coaxing from Maya, Daisy trusts herself enough to let James know that she might just be interested, but it might be too late.

And then in the worst possible timing, Fin decides to try it on with Daisy as he's not 'gelling' with his current girlfriend.

Daisy of course will realise that she's no longer interested in Fin and tell him to get lost. Won't she?

I absolutely adored this funny, quirkly novel and I look forward to more from this author.

The Project is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - the Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge by Rachel Hore

The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge by Rachel Hore

Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK

Release date: 26 July 2026

Back cover blurb: Nancy Foster has harboured a devastating secret that shattered her professional and personal life. On meeting her, journalist Stef Lansdown realizes that she has the power to restore Nancy’s reputation and to heal the wounds, if only Nancy will trust her. But someone else wants to get to the bottom of the story first, someone who doesn’t want it to be told. Set in the beautiful environs of the Norfolk Broads in 2010, and in London in the '40s and ‘50s, when life for career-driven women was so different, The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is Sunday Times multi-million copy bestselling author Rachel Hore’s utterly compelling new novel, interweaving the past and the present.

Stef is feeling prickly after a break up and not sure that she wants to go home. But then a research opportunity presents itself and she can't not.

Stef is a journalist, working on a book about Women in Science and is intrigued by Dr Nancy Foster's potential story. 

For she was one of the leading scientific researchers of the 1950s and then seemingly disappeared from that world.

Dr Nancy Foster is adamant that she does not want to be in Stef's book until she meets Stef and gets to know a little about her. 

As their friendship strengthens, Nancy begins to open up to Stef, until she decides to tell her everything she wants to know.

Nancy's grandson Aaron is fiercely protective of his grandmother, and naturally suspicious of Stef and her motives. But he also warms to Stef as he gets to know her and understands why she wants to write the story that she does.

This is a beautifully written novel about female scientists and the struggles that they have faced in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

The Secrets of Dragonfly Lodge is available now via Amazon online and all good bookshops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - When You Looked Away by S.M. Govett

When I Looked Away by S.M. Govett
Publisher: Michael Joseph
Release date: 9 July 2026

Back cover blurb: Laura is ready to start a new chapter. Between her messy divorce with her ex-husband, and moving in with her new fiancé, her son Benjy and her successful writing career have been her only constants. Until that fateful day. The afternoon starts like any other. Laura collects Benjy from school, then heads upstairs to write. It’s not until the sun is setting that she realises the house is quiet. Too quiet. It’s not until she sees the footprints in the garden that she knows something is terribly wrong.  One set is undeniably Benjy’s. It’s the other set that strikes fear in her heart – those of an adult. Someone who took her son, right from under her nose… DI Stratton is called to investigate. She must trust no one - and suspect everyone. Even Laura. After all, doesn't her latest story follow a boy the same age as Benjy? One that takes a devastating turn...

Laura Forrester is a hugely sucessful author, often absorbed in her writing and detached from reality. Sometimes forgetting to check on her Son, Benji after school.

But then he is 11, and should be able to fend for himself to a certain extent.

Laura is well into her latest edit when she realises she hasn't prepared any dinner, and then comes the shocking realisation that her Son is missing. After a frantic search, Laura discovers that the worst possible outcome has happened, Benji is dead.

Seemingly taken from the house, led to nearby waters and drowned. The Police arrive quickly and work to understand the facts.

Ted, Benji's soon to be Step Father, Laura's fiancee is a teacher, and quickly becomes the prime suspect.

Formerly known as Simon Hunt, accused but never charged with the abuse of three young boys before moving away from the area he lived in previously. It transpired that one of the boys was later found dead in almost identical circumstances to Benji.

Laura can't believe it. Doesn't want to believe that Tim is capable of such horrific crimes.

But Ted has a ready made list of excuses, and more importantly he has an alibi. Which leads the detectives to their next prime suspect, Benji's actual Father, Laura's ex Richard. A stereotypical narcissistic arsehole.

But even he wouldn't have hurt his own son, surely?

Turns out, he also has an alibi as he's been sleeping with Laura's neighbour. Confirming the reason he lied about his whereabouts, but also justifying his reason for being near the crime scene.

Which leaves Laura herself. Could the Mother be the true killer? Has she confused fiction with reality and somehow killed her son in the name of her latest novel?

When You Looked Away is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review - The Last Time I Saw Her Alive by Kate Riordan

The Last Time I Saw Her Alive by Kate Riordan

Publisher: Michael Joseph

Release date: 30 July 2026

Back cover blurb: It’s been years since Rain went home. To many, growing up on the Tanglewood estate, nestled in a beautiful corner of the Cotswolds countryside, seemed like a dream. But for Rain, memories of her childhood there are forever tainted by what happened that summer. The wild party. The body… Now estranged from her mother, and all ties to Tanglewood, Rain thought she’d moved on. Yet when another dead body is found at Tanglewood, she knows she must face her past. Rain has long held suspicions that what happened that summer wasn’t an accident. It was murder. And now's her chance to prove it.

Tanglewood.

A name that conjures thoughts of Woodstock and Glastonbury - the usual 70's stuff. And also Karl Lund.

Famous for one epic vinyl album, Lily of the Valley.

Rain wanted to escape Tanglewood as soon as she was able. She has always had a poor relationship with her Mother, who was more interested in drugs and sex with Karl than looking after her own daughter.

Now Rain is working for Dan, who is making a documentary about the 70's music scene, and in particular events like 'the gathering' at Tanglewood. 

Infamous for never actually taking place.

Now, 30 years on, Karl is planning a gathering anniversay, and a performance of 'the' album in full.

Rain doesn't want to go back to Tanglewood, but Dan doesn't know she grew up there, it isn't something that she ever speaks of, but he knows that she is local to the area and can potentially get something interesting for the documentary.

And then a young woman, Willow, is found dead on the Tanglewood estate and despite never wanting to return, Rain finds that she is curious. 

Especially when it transpires that there was another death on the estate, some 30 years previously...

The Last Time I Saw Her Alive is available now via Amazon online and all good book shops.

Thank You to the publishers who approved my request via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.