en-US Thu, 10 Apr 2025 14:55:28 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg 60556912
Every day I clean the Winchesters�� beautiful house top to bottom. I collect their daughter from school. And I cook a delicious meal for the whole family before heading up to eat alone in my tiny room on the top floor.

I try to ignore how Nina makes a mess just to watch me clean it up. How she tells strange lies about her own daughter. And how her husband Andrew seems more broken every day. But as I look into Andrew’s handsome brown eyes, so full of pain, it’s hard not to imagine what it would be like to live Nina’s life. The walk-in closet, the fancy car, the perfect husband.

I only try on one of Nina’s pristine white dresses once. Just to see what it’s like. But she soon finds out�� and by the time I realize my attic bedroom door only locks from the outside, it’s far too late.

But I reassure myself: the Winchesters don’t know who I really am.

They don’t know what I’m capable of��

An unbelievably twisty read that will have you glued to the pages late into the night. Anyone who loves The Woman in the Window, The Wife Between Us and The Girl on the Train won’t be able to put this down!]]> 329 Freida McFadden 1803144378 Eralith 5
I really enjoyed The Housemaid. The story pulled me in right away, and even though I had some suspicions about the twist, it was still a fun ride getting there. I love when a book keeps you guessing and makes you question everything, and this one definitely did that.

The writing felt simple in the best way—easy to follow but still engaging, and the pacing made it hard to put down. It didn’t drag, and every chapter kept the momentum going. I genuinely think the story was written really well.

If you’re looking for a quick thriller that’ll mess with your head just enough and still deliver a satisfying story, this is a great pick.]]> 4.31 2022
author: Freida McFadden
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.31
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/04/10
shelves:
review:
Fast-paced and super addictive—I flew through this one!

I really enjoyed The Housemaid. The story pulled me in right away, and even though I had some suspicions about the twist, it was still a fun ride getting there. I love when a book keeps you guessing and makes you question everything, and this one definitely did that.

The writing felt simple in the best way—easy to follow but still engaging, and the pacing made it hard to put down. It didn’t drag, and every chapter kept the momentum going. I genuinely think the story was written really well.

If you’re looking for a quick thriller that’ll mess with your head just enough and still deliver a satisfying story, this is a great pick.
]]> 40670312 How far would you go to find The One?

A simple DNA test is all it takes. Just a quick mouth swab and soon you’ll be matched with your perfect partner the one you are genetically made for.

That’s the promise made by Match Your DNA. A decade ago, the company announced that they had found the gene that pairs each of us with our soul mate. Since then, millions of people around the world have been matched. But the discovery has its downsides: test results have led to the breakup of countless relationships and upended the traditional ideas of dating, romance and love.

Now five very different people have received the notification that they’ve been “Matched.�� They’re each about to meet their one true love. But “happily ever after�� isn’t guaranteed for everyone. Because even soul mates have secrets. And some are more shocking than others��

A word-of-mouth hit in the United Kingdom, The One is a fascinating novel that shows how even the simplest discoveries can have complicated consequences.]]> 418 John Marrs Eralith 4 4.09 2016
author: John Marrs
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2016
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/08
date added: 2025/04/09
shelves:
review:

]]> 50659472 The epic third novel in the #1 New York Times bestselling Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas.

Feyre has returned to the Spring Court, determined to gather information on Tamlin's actions and learn what she can about the invading king threatening to bring her land to its knees. But to do so she must play a deadly game of deceit. One slip could bring doom not only for Feyre, but for everything-and everyone-she holds dear.

As war bears down upon them all, Feyre endeavors to take her place amongst the High Fae of the land, balancing her struggle to master her powers-both magical and political-and her love for her court and family. Amidst these struggles, Feyre and Rhysand must decide whom to trust amongst the cunning and lethal High Lords, and hunt for allies in unexpected places.

In this thrilling third book in the #1 New York Times bestselling series from Sarah J. Maas, the fate of Feyre's world is at stake as armies grapple for power over the one thing that could destroy it.]]> 699 Sarah J. Maas 1635575605 Eralith 5
The plot? Gripping. The pacing? Perfect. The characters? Don’t even get me started—I’ve never been more attached to a fictional group of people. Every single scene had weight. Every decision mattered. Every heartbreak hit hard.

What I loved most was how this book balanced tension, action, and emotional vulnerability so effortlessly. It didn’t just feel like the conclusion to a story—it felt like a war fought with heart, love, and sacrifice. And yet, the only thing I wanted more of�� was more. I didn’t want it to end.

Feyre and Rhysand in ACOWAR are everything—and I mean everything. Their bond is unbreakable, not just in love but in purpose. Feyre steps fully into her power, sharp and fearless, and Rhysand is right there beside her—not as her rescuer, but as her equal and fiercest supporter. The trust they have in each other, the way they fight side by side, and the quiet, soul-deep moments in between? I love them so much it hurts. Their relationship is the emotional core of this book for me—powerful, selfless, and beautifully built on mutual respect. Watching them lead, love, and sacrifice together made me fall for them even harder.

And then there’s the Inner Circle—Cassian, Azriel, Mor, Amren. They are found family in the truest sense, each of them bringing their strength, flaws, and fierce loyalty to the table. Their banter made me laugh, their pain made me ache, and their love for one another made everything feel so real. In the middle of all the war and chaos, they were the grounding force, the reminder of what was worth fighting for. I’d follow them through ten more books if I could.

The war plotline was intense and emotional, with moments that ripped me apart. I cried. Multiple times. And those scenes with Nesta and Cassian? Literal chills. I felt everything—from rage and fear to joy and heartbreak. When their father arrived with reinforcements, proving his love in the most unexpected way, only to lose his life protecting his daughters—it broke me. And the Bone Carver? His sacrifice hit just as hard. Watching this ancient, terrifying being choose to fight—and fall—for their cause was hauntingly powerful. There were so many moments like that, and each one left a mark.

And let’s talk about the jaw-dropping reveals, the unexpected bargains, and the alliances that made my head spin. The sacrifices—so many heart-wrenching moments that stayed with me long after I finished the book. It hurt, honestly. But in the best possible way. Maas really knows how to tug at your heartstrings while delivering an epic continuation of the story. It reminded me exactly why I fell in love with this series in the first place. The raw emotions, the stunning character growth, and the unpredictable plot twists—it's all worth the pain.

If you’ve made it this far into the series, ACOWAR will leave you feeling like your soul just went through battle—in a good way. Emotional, intense, beautifully written. This is Sarah J. Maas doing what she does best.]]> 4.47 2017
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.47
book published: 2017
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/04/07
shelves:
review:
Just when I thought this series couldn’t possibly top itself, ACOWAR comes along and completely wrecks me—in the best way possible. The stakes were higher, the emotions were deeper, and the entire story just felt bigger. From the very first chapter, I was all in and by the end, I was a teary, emotional mess (no regrets).

The plot? Gripping. The pacing? Perfect. The characters? Don’t even get me started—I’ve never been more attached to a fictional group of people. Every single scene had weight. Every decision mattered. Every heartbreak hit hard.

What I loved most was how this book balanced tension, action, and emotional vulnerability so effortlessly. It didn’t just feel like the conclusion to a story—it felt like a war fought with heart, love, and sacrifice. And yet, the only thing I wanted more of�� was more. I didn’t want it to end.

Feyre and Rhysand in ACOWAR are everything—and I mean everything. Their bond is unbreakable, not just in love but in purpose. Feyre steps fully into her power, sharp and fearless, and Rhysand is right there beside her—not as her rescuer, but as her equal and fiercest supporter. The trust they have in each other, the way they fight side by side, and the quiet, soul-deep moments in between? I love them so much it hurts. Their relationship is the emotional core of this book for me—powerful, selfless, and beautifully built on mutual respect. Watching them lead, love, and sacrifice together made me fall for them even harder.

And then there’s the Inner Circle—Cassian, Azriel, Mor, Amren. They are found family in the truest sense, each of them bringing their strength, flaws, and fierce loyalty to the table. Their banter made me laugh, their pain made me ache, and their love for one another made everything feel so real. In the middle of all the war and chaos, they were the grounding force, the reminder of what was worth fighting for. I’d follow them through ten more books if I could.

The war plotline was intense and emotional, with moments that ripped me apart. I cried. Multiple times. And those scenes with Nesta and Cassian? Literal chills. I felt everything—from rage and fear to joy and heartbreak. When their father arrived with reinforcements, proving his love in the most unexpected way, only to lose his life protecting his daughters—it broke me. And the Bone Carver? His sacrifice hit just as hard. Watching this ancient, terrifying being choose to fight—and fall—for their cause was hauntingly powerful. There were so many moments like that, and each one left a mark.

And let’s talk about the jaw-dropping reveals, the unexpected bargains, and the alliances that made my head spin. The sacrifices—so many heart-wrenching moments that stayed with me long after I finished the book. It hurt, honestly. But in the best possible way. Maas really knows how to tug at your heartstrings while delivering an epic continuation of the story. It reminded me exactly why I fell in love with this series in the first place. The raw emotions, the stunning character growth, and the unpredictable plot twists—it's all worth the pain.

If you’ve made it this far into the series, ACOWAR will leave you feeling like your soul just went through battle—in a good way. Emotional, intense, beautifully written. This is Sarah J. Maas doing what she does best.
]]> 21936809 The Girl on the Train will love this modern reimagining of Patricia Highsmith’s classic Strangers on a Train from the author of the acclaimed The Girl with a Clock for a Heart—which the Washington Post said “should be a contender for crime fiction’s best first novel of 2014.��

On a night flight from London to Boston, Ted Severson meets the stunning and mysterious Lily Kintner. Sharing one too many martinis, the strangers begin to play a game of truth, revealing very intimate details about themselves. Ted talks about his marriage that’s going stale and his wife Miranda, who he’s sure is cheating on him. Ted and his wife were a mismatch from the start—he the rich businessman, she the artistic free spirit—a contrast that once inflamed their passion, but has now become a cliché.

But their game turns a little darker when Ted jokes that he could kill Miranda for what she’s done. Lily, without missing a beat, says calmly, “I’d like to help.�� After all, some people are the kind worth killing, like a lying, stinking, cheating spouse. . . .

Back in Boston, Ted and Lily’s twisted bond grows stronger as they begin to plot Miranda's demise. But there are a few things about Lily’s past that she hasn’t shared with Ted, namely her experience in the art and craft of murder, a journey that began in her very precocious youth.

Suddenly these co-conspirators are embroiled in a chilling game of cat-and-mouse, one they both cannot survive . . . with a shrewd and very determined detective on their tail.]]> 320 Peter Swanson 0062267523 Eralith 4
What I Liked:
The multiple POVs were a great touch. It gave the story more depth and kept the suspense alive, especially with how each character’s mindset unfolded. The plot was clever and twisted, and the ending? Let’s just say it packed a punch.

What Could’ve Been Better:
There were moments that felt a bit slow for me—lots of descriptive parts that, while important to the story, dragged the pacing down a little. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but I did find myself waiting for things to pick up again.

Overall, The Kind Worth Killing was a solid read, even if it didn’t completely blow me away. If you like slower, more calculated thrillers with complex characters, this might be one for you.]]> 3.98 2015
author: Peter Swanson
name: Eralith
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at: 2025/04/02
date added: 2025/04/03
shelves:
review:
This book had an interesting premise, and I really liked the multiple POVs—it made the story feel more layered. The ending was definitely suspenseful, and I liked how things played out.

What I Liked:
The multiple POVs were a great touch. It gave the story more depth and kept the suspense alive, especially with how each character’s mindset unfolded. The plot was clever and twisted, and the ending? Let’s just say it packed a punch.

What Could’ve Been Better:
There were moments that felt a bit slow for me—lots of descriptive parts that, while important to the story, dragged the pacing down a little. It wasn’t a deal-breaker, but I did find myself waiting for things to pick up again.

Overall, The Kind Worth Killing was a solid read, even if it didn’t completely blow me away. If you like slower, more calculated thrillers with complex characters, this might be one for you.
]]> 62080187
But when they visit the remote manor that once belonged to Dr. Adrienne Hale, a renowned psychiatrist who vanished without a trace four years earlier, a violent winter storm traps them at the estate�� with no chance of escape until the blizzard comes to an end.

In search of a book to keep her entertained until the snow abates, Tricia happens upon a secret room. One that contains audio transcripts from every single patient Dr. Hale has ever interviewed. As Tricia listens to the cassette tapes, she learns about the terrifying chain of events leading up to Dr. Hale’s mysterious disappearance.

Tricia plays the tapes one by one, late into the night. With each one, another shocking piece of the puzzle falls into place, and Dr. Adrienne Hale’s web of lies slowly unravels.

And then Tricia reaches the final cassette.

The one that reveals the entire horrifying truth.]]> 286 Freida McFadden Eralith 5
What I Loved:
Everything. Seriously, everything. The pacing was relentless (but that’s McFadden for you), the atmosphere was chilling, and the dual timeline added so many layers to the mystery. And the best part? That twist. I was convinced I knew where it was headed, but nope—completely blindsided. The eerie, isolated setting kept me on edge, the psychological depth made every character feel unpredictable, and when all the clues finally clicked into place, it was incredibly satisfying.

If you love thrillers that mess with your head and keep you flipping pages into the early hours, Never Lie is a must-read. Dark, gripping, and absolutely addictive—easily one of my favorite Freida McFadden books.]]> 4.09 2022
author: Freida McFadden
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/04/02
shelves:
review:
Freida McFadden just never misses. Never Lie pulled me in from page one, and that twist? I did NOT see it coming! The tension kept climbing, every reveal made me second-guess myself, and just when I thought I had it all figured out—boom, another shocker. I couldn’t put this book down.

What I Loved:
Everything. Seriously, everything. The pacing was relentless (but that’s McFadden for you), the atmosphere was chilling, and the dual timeline added so many layers to the mystery. And the best part? That twist. I was convinced I knew where it was headed, but nope—completely blindsided. The eerie, isolated setting kept me on edge, the psychological depth made every character feel unpredictable, and when all the clues finally clicked into place, it was incredibly satisfying.

If you love thrillers that mess with your head and keep you flipping pages into the early hours, Never Lie is a must-read. Dark, gripping, and absolutely addictive—easily one of my favorite Freida McFadden books.
]]> 35297426 She was fifteen, her mother's golden girl. She had her whole life ahead of her. And then, in the blink of an eye, Ellie was gone.

NOW
It’s been ten years since Ellie disappeared, but Laurel has never given up hope of finding her daughter.

And then one day a charming and charismatic stranger called Floyd walks into a café and sweeps Laurel off her feet.

Before too long she’s staying the night at this house and being introduced to his nine year old daughter.

Poppy is precocious and pretty - and meeting her completely takes Laurel's breath away.

Because Poppy is the spitting image of Ellie when she was that age. And now all those unanswered questions that have haunted Laurel come flooding back.

What happened to Ellie? Where did she go?

Who still has secrets to hide?]]> 359 Lisa Jewell 1501154648 Eralith 4
What I Loved:
Jewell’s writing style is effortless to get lost in, making this a fast and absorbing read. The emotional depth of the story adds another layer, turning this into more than just a thriller—it’s also a heartbreaking exploration of grief, loss, and the haunting power of unanswered questions. The atmosphere throughout the book is subtly eerie, with just the right amount of tension to keep me on edge. While I had some early suspicions, I still enjoyed the gradual unraveling of the mystery, and the way everything pieced together was undeniably compelling.

What Could Have Been Better:
That said, I was hoping for more unpredictable twists. Some moments felt a little too convenient, and while the story was engaging, I kept waiting for a jaw-dropping reveal that never quite came. The ending wrapped up in a way that felt a little too neat for my liking—I wanted something darker or more unsettling to match the tension that had been building. And while the antagonist’s role in the story was disturbing, their motives felt a bit surface-level compared to the deeply emotional elements of the book.

Overall, Then She Was Gone is a gripping and well-written psychological thriller that delivers an emotional punch. While it didn’t completely shock me, it was still an engrossing read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves a mystery that’s as much about human emotion as it is about the twists.]]> 4.02 2017
author: Lisa Jewell
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2017
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/30
shelves:
review:
Lisa Jewell has a way of crafting thrillers that pull you in immediately, and Then She Was Gone is no exception.

What I Loved:
Jewell’s writing style is effortless to get lost in, making this a fast and absorbing read. The emotional depth of the story adds another layer, turning this into more than just a thriller—it’s also a heartbreaking exploration of grief, loss, and the haunting power of unanswered questions. The atmosphere throughout the book is subtly eerie, with just the right amount of tension to keep me on edge. While I had some early suspicions, I still enjoyed the gradual unraveling of the mystery, and the way everything pieced together was undeniably compelling.

What Could Have Been Better:
That said, I was hoping for more unpredictable twists. Some moments felt a little too convenient, and while the story was engaging, I kept waiting for a jaw-dropping reveal that never quite came. The ending wrapped up in a way that felt a little too neat for my liking—I wanted something darker or more unsettling to match the tension that had been building. And while the antagonist’s role in the story was disturbing, their motives felt a bit surface-level compared to the deeply emotional elements of the book.

Overall, Then She Was Gone is a gripping and well-written psychological thriller that delivers an emotional punch. While it didn’t completely shock me, it was still an engrossing read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves a mystery that’s as much about human emotion as it is about the twists.
]]> 207293948
Flash forward months later, and Wes and Liz find themselves in college, together. In a healthier place now, Wes knows he broke Liz’s heart when he ended things, but he is determined to make her fall back in love with him.

Wes knows Liz better than anyone, and he has a foolproof plan to win her back with rom-com-worthy grand gestures she loves. Only . . . Liz will have none of it! Wes has to scheme like a rom-com hero to figure out how to see her. Even worse, Liz has a new friend . . . a guy friend.

Still, Wes won’t give up, adapting his clever plans and going hard to get Liz’s attention and win back her affection. But after his best efforts get him nowhere, Wes is left wondering if their relationship is really over for good.]]> 442 Lynn Painter 1665947136 Eralith 3
Liz’s emotional struggles were understandable, and I liked how the book acknowledged that love alone doesn’t magically fix everything. But at the same time, the story felt like it was just going in circles, and the chemistry between Liz and Wes didn’t have that spark that makes second-chance romances unforgettable. I kept waiting for that moment—the one that would make me feel something deeper—but it never really came.

Overall, it’s a decent read, but it didn’t leave a strong impression on me. Maybe if I had read Better Than the Movies first, I would’ve been more invested, but as it stands, it was just okay. If you’re a fan of the first book, you might enjoy revisiting these characters. But if you’re looking for a second-chance romance that truly tugs at your heartstrings—sorry, this might not be the one.]]> 3.99 2024
author: Lynn Painter
name: Eralith
average rating: 3.99
book published: 2024
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/03/28
shelves:
review:
I didn’t realize Nothing Like the Movies was the second book in the Better Than the Movies series when I picked it up, but thankfully, it gives enough context about the first book that I wasn’t completely lost. The story focuses on Wes trying to win Liz back, which had potential, but it just didn’t hit the way I hoped.

Liz’s emotional struggles were understandable, and I liked how the book acknowledged that love alone doesn’t magically fix everything. But at the same time, the story felt like it was just going in circles, and the chemistry between Liz and Wes didn’t have that spark that makes second-chance romances unforgettable. I kept waiting for that moment—the one that would make me feel something deeper—but it never really came.

Overall, it’s a decent read, but it didn’t leave a strong impression on me. Maybe if I had read Better Than the Movies first, I would’ve been more invested, but as it stands, it was just okay. If you’re a fan of the first book, you might enjoy revisiting these characters. But if you’re looking for a second-chance romance that truly tugs at your heartstrings—sorry, this might not be the one.
]]> 127279000 What if you thought you murdered your best friend? And if everyone else thought so too? And what if the truth doesn't matter?

Lucy and Savvy were the golden girls of their small Texas town: pretty, smart, and enviable. Lucy married a dream guy with a big ring and an even bigger new home. Savvy was the social butterfly loved by all and, if you believe the rumors, especially popular with the men in town. But after Lucy is found wandering the streets, covered in her best friend Savvy’s blood, everyone thinks she is a murderer.

It’s been years since that horrible night, a night Lucy can’t remember anything about, and she has since moved to LA and started a new life. But now the phenomenally huge hit true crime podcast Listen for the Lie and its too-good looking host, Ben Owens, have decided to investigate Savvy’s murder for the show’s second season. Lucy is forced to return to the place she vowed never to set foot in again to solve her friend’s murder, even if she is the one who did it.

The truth is out there, if we just listen.]]> 352 Amy Tintera 1250880319 Eralith 4
The story follows Lucy, the main character, who has no memory of the night her best friend was murdered. Five years later, a true crime podcast starts digging into the case, forcing her to confront what really happened. The way the mystery unravels, with alternating timelines and podcast episodes woven in, adds to the suspense and keeps you guessing.

The characters are well-developed, and Lucy is an interesting protagonist—flawed, unreliable, and struggling with her past, which makes her journey compelling. The supporting characters add layers to the story, but I have to admit that the frequent affairs between different characters weren’t my favorite part. While it did add complexity and multiple suspects to the mystery, it wasn’t something I particularly enjoyed.

Overall, though, the book was still great. The mix of dark humor, suspense, and an intriguing mystery made it a fun and gripping read!]]> 4.07 2024
author: Amy Tintera
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.07
book published: 2024
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/18
date added: 2025/03/25
shelves:
review:
I enjoyed this book! The way it was written, especially with the podcast-style storytelling, made it stand out from the usual thriller or crime books. It’s easy to read and follow, and despite having a lot of characters, I found it to be a fast-paced book that kept me engaged.

The story follows Lucy, the main character, who has no memory of the night her best friend was murdered. Five years later, a true crime podcast starts digging into the case, forcing her to confront what really happened. The way the mystery unravels, with alternating timelines and podcast episodes woven in, adds to the suspense and keeps you guessing.

The characters are well-developed, and Lucy is an interesting protagonist—flawed, unreliable, and struggling with her past, which makes her journey compelling. The supporting characters add layers to the story, but I have to admit that the frequent affairs between different characters weren’t my favorite part. While it did add complexity and multiple suspects to the mystery, it wasn’t something I particularly enjoyed.

Overall, though, the book was still great. The mix of dark humor, suspense, and an intriguing mystery made it a fun and gripping read!
]]> 36315374
When she was sixteen years old, Angela Wong—one of the most popular girls in school—disappeared without a trace. Nobody ever suspected that her best friend, Georgina Shaw, now an executive and rising star at her Seattle pharmaceutical company, was involved in any way. Certainly not Kaiser Brody, who was close with both girls back in high school.

But fourteen years later, Angela Wong's remains are discovered in the woods near Geo's childhood home. And Kaiser—now a detective with Seattle PD—finally learns the truth: Angela was a victim of Calvin James. The same Calvin James who murdered at least three other women.

To the authorities, Calvin is a serial killer. But to Geo, he's something else entirely. Back in high school, Calvin was Geo's first love. Turbulent and often volatile, their relationship bordered on obsession from the moment they met right up until the night Angela was killed.

For fourteen years, Geo knew what happened to Angela and told no one. For fourteen years, she carried the secret of Angela's death until Geo was arrested and sent to prison.

While everyone thinks they finally know the truth, there are dark secrets buried deep. And what happened that fateful night is more complex and more chilling than anyone really knows. Now the obsessive past catches up with the deadly present when new bodies begin to turn up, killed in the exact same manner as Angela Wong.

How far will someone go to bury her secrets and hide her grief? How long can you get away with a lie? How long can you live with it?]]> 311 Jennifer Hillier 1250154197 Eralith 4
This book isn’t just a thriller—it’s an emotional ride. Beneath the murder mystery and dark twists, Jar of Hearts is really about trauma, guilt, and how the past never truly lets go. The buildup had me fully invested, but just when I expected that final gut punch, the ending didn’t hit as hard as it could have. Still, it’s a gripping, intense read that hits hard in unexpected ways. If you’re into psychological thrillers that also dig deep into the emotional scars people carry, this one’s worth picking up.]]> 4.09 2018
author: Jennifer Hillier
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.09
book published: 2018
rating: 4
read at: 2025/03/25
date added: 2025/03/25
shelves:
review:
4 stars or maybe 3.8? Still debating.

This book isn’t just a thriller—it’s an emotional ride. Beneath the murder mystery and dark twists, Jar of Hearts is really about trauma, guilt, and how the past never truly lets go. The buildup had me fully invested, but just when I expected that final gut punch, the ending didn’t hit as hard as it could have. Still, it’s a gripping, intense read that hits hard in unexpected ways. If you’re into psychological thrillers that also dig deep into the emotional scars people carry, this one’s worth picking up.
]]> 218653468 I only wanted to protect you��

Luke Garrison is a hometown hero, a member of the National Guard ready to deploy again. He’s strong, sexy, broody. The last thing he’s looking for is a woman to ruin his solitude. When the wildly beautiful Harper stumbles into his life, though, he realizes that she’s the perfect decoy. A fake girlfriend to keep his family off his back until he’s deployed.

So what if kissing her sends his mind to wicked places? He can control himself. Can’t he?

Harper was on her way to starting a new life�� again. But something about Luke makes her want to settle down in this small town and make his house a home. When she’s in his arms, she finally knows what it’s like to feel safe. Protected.

One night of sharing a bed turns into something much, much more�� and soon Luke can’t keep his mind off Harper’s wide gray eyes or his hands off her luscious curves. He never thought he’d feel this way about a woman again. But he knows that he can’t tell her the truth about his dark past. And she can’t reveal what she’s running from.

At least this isn’t a real relationship. It’s only for a month. It’s only pretend. Until it isn’t��]]> 451 Lucy Score 1945631309 Eralith 4
Spice level: Medium-high. The chemistry is ]]> 4.24 2015
author: Lucy Score
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.24
book published: 2015
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/24
shelves:
review:
The writing in this book is super engaging—funny, emotional, and packed with just the right amount of tension. The small-town vibes are strong, and the banter makes it an easy, enjoyable read.

Spice level: Medium-high. The chemistry is
]]> 123193218 spending the night on a locked psychiatric ward.

Amy has been dreading her evening working on Ward D, the hospital’s inpatient mental health unit. There are very specific reasons why she never wanted to do this required overnight rotation. Reasons nobody can ever find out.

And as the hours tick by, Amy grows increasingly convinced something terrible is happening within these tightly secured walls. When patients and staff start to vanish without a trace, it becomes clear that everyone on the unit is in grave danger.

Amy’s worst nightmare was spending the night on Ward D.

And now she might never escape.
]]> 348 Freida McFadden Eralith 4
Freida McFadden never disappoints when it comes to fast-paced, unputdownable thrillers, and Ward D is no exception. This book had me flipping pages so fast—the eerie hospital setting, the sense of paranoia, and the unexpected twists? Chef’s kiss.

The short chapters made this such a quick, gripping read, and the eerie, locked-ward setting added to the tension perfectly. That constant feeling of being watched? Chilling. And, of course, the twist—McFadden knows how to throw a curveball, and I definitely didn’t see it coming.

I really enjoyed this book! The eerie tension kept me on edge the whole time, and the twist was solid. But�� I wanted more. The ending felt a bit abrupt—I was hoping for a deeper dive or an extra layer of shock. Still, it was a wild ride, and I’d totally recommend it. If you love psychological thrillers with an eerie hospital setting and a mind-twisting plot, this one’s for you.]]> 3.98 2023
author: Freida McFadden
name: Eralith
average rating: 3.98
book published: 2023
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/22
shelves:
review:
Rating: 4.5/5

Freida McFadden never disappoints when it comes to fast-paced, unputdownable thrillers, and Ward D is no exception. This book had me flipping pages so fast—the eerie hospital setting, the sense of paranoia, and the unexpected twists? Chef’s kiss.

The short chapters made this such a quick, gripping read, and the eerie, locked-ward setting added to the tension perfectly. That constant feeling of being watched? Chilling. And, of course, the twist—McFadden knows how to throw a curveball, and I definitely didn’t see it coming.

I really enjoyed this book! The eerie tension kept me on edge the whole time, and the twist was solid. But�� I wanted more. The ending felt a bit abrupt—I was hoping for a deeper dive or an extra layer of shock. Still, it was a wild ride, and I’d totally recommend it. If you love psychological thrillers with an eerie hospital setting and a mind-twisting plot, this one’s for you.
]]> 50659468
Feyre has undergone more trials than one human woman can carry in her heart. Though she's now been granted the powers and lifespan of the High Fae, she is haunted by her time Under the Mountain and the terrible deeds she performed to save the lives of Tamlin and his people.

As her marriage to Tamlin approaches, Feyre's hollowness and nightmares consume her. She finds herself split into two different one who upholds her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court, and one who lives out her life in the Spring Court with Tamlin. While Feyre navigates a dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms. She might just be the key to stopping it, but only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future-and the future of a world in turmoil.

Bestselling author Sarah J. Maas's masterful storytelling brings this second book in her dazzling, sexy, action-packed series to new heights.]]> 626 Sarah J. Maas 1635575583 Eralith 5
Let’s talk about Feyre. The way she transforms in this book? Phenomenal. She goes from being broken and lost to finding her strength, her voice, and her true home. Her journey felt so real—full of raw emotions, heartbreak, and moments of pure triumph.

Rhysand. I have no words. Scratch that—I have too many words. I fell in love with Rhysand in this book, and I refuse to recover. He’s charming, powerful, and a complete menace in the best way, but more importantly, he respects Feyre in a way that makes your heart ache. The banter? Perfection. The tension? Unmatched. The way he encourages Feyre to make her own choices and be her own person? Absolutely swoon-worthy.

Introducing Cassian, Azriel, Mor, and Amren was one of the best things Maas did for this series. Their dynamic is everything—loyalty, sarcasm, and so much love. I adored every moment with them, and honestly, I’d read an entire spin-off about their adventures.

Velaris is a dream—a hidden city full of art, starlight, and freedom. Maas paints such a vivid picture of the Night Court that I found myself wishing I could live there. Her writing in ACOMAF is stunning, balancing action, emotion, and humor so well that I couldn’t put the book down.

This is slow-burn done right. The romance in this book is built on trust, friendship, and healing, and I ate up every second of it. The moments of tension, the banter, the wingspan jokes—it was all so perfectly paced.

If you loved ACOTAR—or even if you just liked it—this book will change everything for you. It’s a masterpiece, and I will never shut up about it.]]> 4.65 2016
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.65
book published: 2016
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/03/20
shelves:
review:
I don’t even know where to start because A Court of Mist and Fury completely wrecked me in the best way possible. Sarah J. Maas took everything I thought I knew from A Court of Thorns and Roses and flipped it upside down, giving us a story that is bigger, bolder, and absolutely breathtaking.

Let’s talk about Feyre. The way she transforms in this book? Phenomenal. She goes from being broken and lost to finding her strength, her voice, and her true home. Her journey felt so real—full of raw emotions, heartbreak, and moments of pure triumph.

Rhysand. I have no words. Scratch that—I have too many words. I fell in love with Rhysand in this book, and I refuse to recover. He’s charming, powerful, and a complete menace in the best way, but more importantly, he respects Feyre in a way that makes your heart ache. The banter? Perfection. The tension? Unmatched. The way he encourages Feyre to make her own choices and be her own person? Absolutely swoon-worthy.

Introducing Cassian, Azriel, Mor, and Amren was one of the best things Maas did for this series. Their dynamic is everything—loyalty, sarcasm, and so much love. I adored every moment with them, and honestly, I’d read an entire spin-off about their adventures.

Velaris is a dream—a hidden city full of art, starlight, and freedom. Maas paints such a vivid picture of the Night Court that I found myself wishing I could live there. Her writing in ACOMAF is stunning, balancing action, emotion, and humor so well that I couldn’t put the book down.

This is slow-burn done right. The romance in this book is built on trust, friendship, and healing, and I ate up every second of it. The moments of tension, the banter, the wingspan jokes—it was all so perfectly paced.

If you loved ACOTAR—or even if you just liked it—this book will change everything for you. It’s a masterpiece, and I will never shut up about it.
]]> 219407654 Meghan, Brecia, and Skye have just one thing in common.

They were all murdered by the same man.

He hunted them online, masquerading as an eligible bachelor. Then he played the perfect gentleman, a thick layer of charm and a thousand-watt smile hiding the fact that his first dates end in shallow graves.

He’s gotten away with murder three times now.

The only thing that might keep him from killing again? The women he murdered.

Meghan, Brecia, and Skye might be dead, but they’re not gone. They’ve found each other. And they won’t rest until they find a way to stop him.

The haunt is on.]]> 295 Noelle W. Ihli Eralith 3
That said, Ask for Andrea stands out with its unique storytelling approach. Instead of following a typical investigation or survivor’s perspective, it’s told through the voices of the victims—women who never got the chance to tell their stories. This makes the book deeply unsettling, emotional, and even heartbreaking at times. The author does a great job of making each woman feel real, which adds to the weight of their narratives.

While the thriller aspect isn’t as intense as I initially hoped, the book keeps you engaged in a different way—through raw emotions, eerie tension, and the haunting way the story unfolds. It’s less about the chase for justice and more about giving these victims a voice, making it a powerful, thought-provoking read. If you’re looking for something that blends true crime vibes with a more emotional depth, this one is worth picking up!]]> 4.08 2022
author: Noelle W. Ihli
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/03/18
shelves:
review:
Personally, I like the book but feel so-so about it. It’s more emotional than thriller, which isn’t exactly what I expected.

That said, Ask for Andrea stands out with its unique storytelling approach. Instead of following a typical investigation or survivor’s perspective, it’s told through the voices of the victims—women who never got the chance to tell their stories. This makes the book deeply unsettling, emotional, and even heartbreaking at times. The author does a great job of making each woman feel real, which adds to the weight of their narratives.

While the thriller aspect isn’t as intense as I initially hoped, the book keeps you engaged in a different way—through raw emotions, eerie tension, and the haunting way the story unfolds. It’s less about the chase for justice and more about giving these victims a voice, making it a powerful, thought-provoking read. If you’re looking for something that blends true crime vibes with a more emotional depth, this one is worth picking up!
]]> 60109530
Mia and Finn are busy turning a derelict house into their dream home when Mia unexpectedly falls pregnant. But just when they think the house is ready, Mia discovers a chilling message scored into a skirting board: I WILL SAVE THEM FROM THE ATTIC. Following the clue up into the eaves, the couple make a gruesome discovery: their dream home was once a house of horrors.

In the wake of their traumatic discovery, the baby arrives and Mia can’t shake her fixation with the monstrous crimes that happened right above them. Haunted by the terrible things she saw and desperate to find answers, her obsession pulls her ever further from her husband.

Secrecy shrouds the mystery of the attic, but when shards of a dark truth start to emerge, Mia realises the danger is terrifyingly present. She is prepared to do anything to protect her family—but is it already too late?]]> 380 John Marrs 1542017289 Eralith 3 4.08 2022
author: John Marrs
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.08
book published: 2022
rating: 3
read at:
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:

]]> 50659467
At least, he’s not a beast all the time.

As she adapts to her new home, her feelings for the faerie, Tamlin, transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie she’s been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But something is not right in the faerie lands. An ancient, wicked shadow is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it, or doom Tamlin—and his world—forever.

From bestselling author Sarah J. Maas comes a seductive, breathtaking book that blends romance, adventure, and faerie lore into an unforgettable read.]]> 419 Sarah J. Maas 1635575567 Eralith 5
It’s actually been a while since I last read a romantasy, and this book reignited my love for the genre. I'm definitely sensing an enemies-to-lovers trope brewing, and I can't wait to read more! I was originally team Tamlin—like most people probably are after reading the first book—but the moment Rhysand was introduced�� oh god, there was just something about him. That intrigue, that charm—I was hooked. And since enemies to lovers is my favorite trope, I just know I’m in for a ride!]]> 4.16 2015
author: Sarah J. Maas
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.16
book published: 2015
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/03/16
shelves:
review:
I absolutely loved this book! I’ve seen some reviews where people couldn’t get through it, maybe because the pacing felt slow to them. The action really picks up towards the end, but honestly, I didn’t mind at all. I never got bored—I enjoyed the steady pacing because it allowed me to fully immerse myself in the world, get to know the characters, and take in all the details.

It’s actually been a while since I last read a romantasy, and this book reignited my love for the genre. I'm definitely sensing an enemies-to-lovers trope brewing, and I can't wait to read more! I was originally team Tamlin—like most people probably are after reading the first book—but the moment Rhysand was introduced�� oh god, there was just something about him. That intrigue, that charm—I was hooked. And since enemies to lovers is my favorite trope, I just know I’m in for a ride!
]]> 58724923 A wildly inventive spin on the supernatural thriller, about a woman working as a nanny for a young boy with strange and disturbing secrets.

Mallory Quinn is fresh out of rehab when she takes a job as a babysitter for Ted and Caroline Maxwell. She is to look after their five-year-old son, Teddy.

Mallory immediately loves it. She has her own living space, goes out for nightly runs, and has the stability she craves. And she sincerely bonds with Teddy, a sweet, shy boy who is never without his sketchbook and pencil. His drawings are the usual fare: trees, rabbits, balloons. But one day, he draws something different: a man in a forest, dragging a woman’s lifeless body.

Then, Teddy’s artwork becomes increasingly sinister, and his stick figures quickly evolve into lifelike sketches well beyond the ability of any five-year-old. Mallory begins to wonder if these are glimpses of a long-unsolved murder, perhaps relayed by a supernatural force.

Knowing just how crazy it all sounds, Mallory nevertheless sets out to decipher the images and save Teddy before it’s too late.]]> 372 Jason Rekulak 1250819342 Eralith 5
What really stood out to me was how the tension built up gradually, keeping me second-guessing every clue. The mix of supernatural elements with psychological twists made it an addictive read. While some parts felt a bit predictable, the overall atmosphere and storytelling more than made up for it. Definitely a book that lingers in your mind even after you’ve finished!]]> 4.12 2022
author: Jason Rekulak
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2022
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/03/13
shelves:
review:
I loved this book! If you're into paranormal stories, I highly recommend it. It has a strong thriller vibe that keeps you hooked, and the eerie illustrations add an extra layer of suspense, making the experience even more immersive. The pacing was great, and the mystery kept me engaged throughout.

What really stood out to me was how the tension built up gradually, keeping me second-guessing every clue. The mix of supernatural elements with psychological twists made it an addictive read. While some parts felt a bit predictable, the overall atmosphere and storytelling more than made up for it. Definitely a book that lingers in your mind even after you’ve finished!
]]> 62984900
It’s been ten years since, and Alex hasn’t stopped searching for answers about the night her family was killed, even as she continues to hide her real identity from true crime fanatics and grasping reporters still desperate to locate her. As a legal investigator, she works tirelessly to secure justice for others, too. People like Matthew Claymore, who’s under suspicion in the disappearance of his girlfriend, a student journalist named Laura McAllister.

Laura was about to break a major story about rape and cover-ups on her college campus. Alex believes Matthew is innocent, and unearths stunning revelations about the university’s faculty, fraternity members, and powerful parents willing to do anything to protect their children.

Most shocking of all—as Alex digs into Laura’s disappearance, she realizes there are unexpected connections to the murder of her own family. For as different as the crimes may seem, they each hinge on one sinister truth: no one is quite who they seem to be . . .]]> 368 Charlie Donlea 1496727177 Eralith 5
From the very first page, I was hooked, and the suspense never let up until the end. The story is so well-crafted, and while a lot is happening, everything comes together perfectly in the end.

The plot twists? Brilliant. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the book surprised me again. I honestly feel like this book is so underrated, and more people should read it. If you love a gripping, well-paced thriller, this one is a must-read!]]> 4.02 2023
author: Charlie Donlea
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.02
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/03/11
shelves:
review:
Absolutely Loved It! ��

From the very first page, I was hooked, and the suspense never let up until the end. The story is so well-crafted, and while a lot is happening, everything comes together perfectly in the end.

The plot twists? Brilliant. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the book surprised me again. I honestly feel like this book is so underrated, and more people should read it. If you love a gripping, well-paced thriller, this one is a must-read!
]]> 40097951
Alicia’s refusal to talk, or give any kind of explanation, turns a domestic tragedy into something far grander, a mystery that captures the public imagination and casts Alicia into notoriety. The price of her art skyrockets, and she, the silent patient, is hidden away from the tabloids and spotlight at the Grove, a secure forensic unit in North London.

Theo Faber is a criminal psychotherapist who has waited a long time for the opportunity to work with Alicia. His determination to get her to talk and unravel the mystery of why she shot her husband takes him down a twisting path into his own motivations—a search for the truth that threatens to consume him....

The Silent Patient is a shocking psychological thriller of a woman’s act of violence against her husband—and of the therapist obsessed with uncovering her motive.]]> 336 Alex Michaelides 1250301696 Eralith 4 4.18 2019
author: Alex Michaelides
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.18
book published: 2019
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/09
shelves:
review:
I have mixed feelings about this book. While the story itself is well-written, I didn’t get the ‘wow�� factor I was hoping for. The big revelation didn’t shock me as much as I expected, which made the ending feel a bit underwhelming. I think it had the potential to be more—more twists, more depth, more unpredictability. That said, it’s still a good book, just not one that completely gripped me.
]]> 223688351 Would you defend your husband if he was accused of killing his mistress?

Sarah Morgan is a successful and powerful defense attorney in Washington D.C. At 33 years old, she is a named partner at her firm and life is going exactly how she planned.

The same cannot be said for her husband, Adam. He is a struggling writer who has had little success in his career. He begins to tire of his and Sarah’s relationship as she is constantly working.

Out in the secluded woods, at Adam and Sarah’s second home, Adam engages in a passionate affair with Kelly Summers.

Then, one morning everything changes. Adam is arrested for Kelly’s murder. She had been found stabbed to death in Adam and Sarah’s second home.

Sarah soon finds herself playing the defender for her own husband, a man accused of murdering his mistress.

But is Adam guilty or is he innocent?]]> 352 Jeneva Rose Eralith 4 4.00 2020
author: Jeneva Rose
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.00
book published: 2020
rating: 4
read at:
date added: 2025/03/07
shelves:
review:
This is a well-written and engaging thriller with a solid storyline and smooth pacing. I enjoyed the way the story unfolded, but I’m giving it 4 stars because I figured out the killer early on—perhaps because I’ve seen Gone Girl and noticed similar themes. I prefer thrillers that keep me guessing until the very end, but overall, it’s still a great read.
]]> 62703226 At seventeen, Lenora Hope
Hung her sister with a rope

Now reduced to a schoolyard chant, the Hope family murders shocked the Maine coast one bloody night in 1929. While most people assume seventeen-year-old Lenora was responsible, the police were never able to prove it. Other than her denial after the killings, she has never spoken publicly about that night, nor has she set foot outside Hope’s End, the cliffside mansion where the massacre occurred.

Stabbed her father with a knife
Took her mother’s happy life

It’s now 1983, and home-health aide Kit McDeere arrives at a decaying Hope’s End to care for Lenora after her previous nurse fled in the middle of the night. In her seventies and confined to a wheelchair, Lenora was rendered mute by a series of strokes and can only communicate with Kit by tapping out sentences on an old typewriter. One night, Lenora uses it to make a tantalizing offer��I want to tell you everything.

“It wasn’t me,�� Lenora said
But she’s the only one not dead

As Kit helps Lenora write about the events leading to the Hope family massacre, it becomes clear there’s more to the tale than people know. But when new details about her predecessor’s departure come to light, Kit starts to suspect Lenora might not be telling the complete truth—and that the seemingly harmless woman in her care could be far more dangerous than she first thought.]]> 383 Riley Sager 0593183223 Eralith 5 4.12 2023
author: Riley Sager
name: Eralith
average rating: 4.12
book published: 2023
rating: 5
read at:
date added: 2025/03/05
shelves:
review:
It's a gripping read from start to finish. The story had me hooked, with no dull moments—just twist after twist, each more unexpected than the last. Just when I thought I had it figured out, the plot took another turn. A truly thrilling read that kept me guessing until the very end.
]]>