Two suspense series from my favorite

Hometown Vendetta
Luke Steele #1
By Traci Hunter Abramson
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: October 1, 2024
Print length: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1639932986

 Publisher’s Blurb:

Marine Captain Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner must work together to unravel a deadly conspiracy before times runs out while also navigating their undercover fake relationship that is becoming all too real.

When a terrorist attack grips the nation, Luke Steele, a military aide to the president of the United States, is reassigned to track down the suspect because the alleged bomber was spotted wearing a state championship ring from Luke’s hometown. Luke has desperately tried to forget his high school years, but he can’t run from them now. Instead, he must face his most formidable assignment yet: leave his post by the president’s side, return to Pine Falls, Virginia, and face every demon from his childhood—including every person and every thought that told him he wasn’t worth anything.

FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner has spent years tracking domestic terrorism. When she catches a break that could pinpoint the key player in the antigovernment group responsible for dozens of needless deaths, she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the information she seeks—even if it means going undercover as Luke Steele’s plus-one at his high school reunion. Though Amberlyn found Luke arrogant and aloof during their time together at Quantico, it doesn’t take long for her to discover that there’s much more to him than she realized. But even as the line between fact and fiction in their relationship blurs, the countdown to danger accelerates. Time is running out, and with the threat of another terrorist attack looming, the stakes are higher than ever.

 My Thoughts:

This new series from one of my favorite suspense authors brings us right into the White House. Luke Steele is one of the military aides who constantly accompany the president (and carry the “nuclear football”). When Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner, who has been profiling terrorist attacks, must present information to the president on the latest attack—which killed her best friend—Luke is assigned to assist her. He discovers a connection to his very painful high school years, and the two end up going undercover at his high school reunion.

 Luke is less than happy to return to his hometown, where the bullies haven’t changed much. Slowly, the two unravel the information they need, while also developing a strong friendship that leans toward romance.

 Abramson does what she does so well: creates an intricate plot full of surprises that aren’t too far-fetched to be believable. All of the characters are well-drawn and the motivations and dialogue ring true.

Luke is a humble, self-effacing type who, though he knows his own worth, still carries the baggage of high school bullying. Amberlyn is smart, strong, and capable, with a soft edge. They bond over baseball and movies as well as work.

 The focus here is more on suspense than it is on romance, though romance does exist, with a classic fake-dating setup.

 Abramson is not afraid to create characters we like and then put them in danger, and this book is no exception. I might have yelled when someone dies.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

Terrorist attacks. People die. Luke and Amberlyn are attacked in various ways from inconvenient to downright dangerous. Someone is killed. Mention of drinking, drugs, and vaping (though the vaping reference doesn’t quite fit in the timeline—me being picky here). Some kissing.

 Who Might Like This Book:

Those who like fast-moving suspense without swearing, sex, and gory details.

 Thank you to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

  

Victim #8
Luke Steele #2
By Traci Hunter Abramson
Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing
Publication date: October 7, 2025
Print length: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1639934348

 Publisher’s Blurb:

Military aide Luke Steele and FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner go undercover once again to unravel a string of murders that may be tied to a nuclear threat capable of igniting a war.

Military aide Luke Steele grapples with self-doubt after a tragic loss during his last mission. But when a trusted American journalist is killed in Istanbul, Luke must push past his grief to prepare for a new assignment.

The Turkish police report the journalist as the eighth victim of a serial killer. But US intelligence considers the suspicious death a murder at the hands of an international threat and fear that the journalist could have had top-secret information that is now in the hands of an enemy of the United States.

The president tasks Luke to join with FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner to investigate. As the two delve into the cause of the journalist’s death, they unravel a conspiracy that reveals a chilling plan for the assassination of the president and a potential nuclear strike on the United States.

Going undercover as a couple, Luke and Amberlyn travel to Istanbul to connect with a Russian source who holds key information to the case—if they can find him in time.

In the crucible of danger, Luke must rediscover his confidence and trust the bond he has forged with Amberlyn as they fight to save the president of the United States and stop a perilous nuclear plot poised to kill millions.

 My Thoughts:

Luke and Amberlyn are back and working together again as it becomes clear that a serial killing spree is not quite what it appears. Luke is still trying to overcome his guilt over the death of a friend in the previous book, but now he also has to keep some information from her due to security clearances. It’s…a lot. Especially as he’d really like to move the relationship out of the friend zone but just doesn’t have the confidence to do so.

 Once again, the two must pose as a dating couple, this time in Istanbul as they investigate what is ultimately a threat on the President’s life and the safety of the entire world.

 This book mentions real-world events, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and U.S. government budget passage issues, and everything about the story is something that could happen. It doesn’t read as “outrageous made up stuff for the sake of the story.” Perhaps that’s what makes the suspense so real. Clever plotting makes it quite belivable.

 I particularly liked meeting Luke’s journalist mother in this one. She turns out to be surprisingly helpful in solving the case at hand.

 Abramson gives us a good look at survivors’ guilt and the impacts of being in a “kill or be killed” situation. It’s not all glamorous James Bond stuff.

 It will be interesting as this series continues to see how Amberlyn’s increased involvement with the White House will affect her day-to-day job. And, of course, it will be interesting to watch the relationship between her and Luke continue to grow. Abramson is clearly not rushing this one.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

Again, this is a spy novel. Death, some gunfights, and lots of perilous situations are to be expected. I’m not sure anyone even drank alcohol in this one, although people are drugged. Part of the story takes place in Turkey and mentions the restrictions of being in a primarily Muslim country.

 Who Might Like This Book:

If you like suspense without sex or swearing, this is a keeper!

 Thank you to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

  

A Novel Threat
Pen and Dagger #1
By Traci Hunter Abramson
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: April 1, 2025
Print length: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1639933846

 Publisher’s Blurb:

In a world of covert codes, two CIA operatives must infiltrate a New York publishing house, where every word on the page could be a weapon.

Brandon Hale, a seasoned CIA case officer, contemplates leaving the covert world of espionage behind to embark on a quieter path in publishing. But his plan takes an abrupt turn when a critical source within the Labyrinth terrorist organization is assassinated, leaving behind a cryptic message about a New York publishing house. Rather than submitting his resignation, Brandon finds himself going undercover at Monroe Publishing to stop the next terrorist strike against the US.

Kimber Seidel, a CIA finance officer with secret aspirations of becoming a novelist, enjoys a serendipitous encounter with a handsome book lover like herself on her way home from London. Though she cannot reveal her true employment to her new friend, Brandon Hale, she can’t deny the instant spark that ignites between them. When Kimber’s manuscript is unexpectedly shopped to Monroe Publishing as a pawn in the CIA’s counterterrorism plot, Kimber must navigate the intersection of her literary dreams and her covert life as well as her deepening connection with Brandon.

Though each decoded message is leading Brandon and Kimber closer to the truth, it is also leading them into the line of fire, where the stakes are higher than anyone ever imagined.

 My Thoughts:

In this series, Abramson shifts her focus to the CIA. In a case of art imitating life, at least to a degree, we meet financial analyst Kimber, who is also an aspiring author. We learn a little about how CIA staffers must run their creative work through an official review process in order to avoid inadvertently spilling secrets. This is a process that Abramson still goes through!

 Kimber still has some guilt over accidentally giving away a past boyfriend’s status as an agent, leading to his later injury, because she’s not good at lying, especially not when under pressure. She’s happy with her job with the CIA, so imagine her surprise when she’s told that she’s about to be a field agent by living her biggest dream: getting one of her novels published.

 Even more interesting, Brandon, the assistant to the publisher she’s working with is the man she met on a flight home from Europe. You can imagine her surprise when she later discovers that he, too, is with the CIA.

 Together, they must figure out how the publishing house is connected to an imminent terrorist threat.

 Kimber has to deal with a big case of imposter syndrome, believing that her novel has only been accepted for publication because the CIA pushed it. She’s also most definitely attracted to Brandon, despite the odd circumstances throwing them together.

 For his part, Brandon had planned to leave the CIA to work in a London publishing house, but when a contact is killed during a meeting, he ends up continuing with the CIA. Yes, he’s working for a publisher, but in a much more lowly position with some really antagonistic co-workers.

 The two are required to fake date as Kimber begins to make appearances with famous authors and actors. She’s still skeptical about the ones who want to be friends with her, since she feels her imminent fame is unearned, but she does make some good friends, particularly neighbor Trudy and movie star Ian Sawyer.

 I particularly liked the discovery of how the terrorists were communicating their plans and how Kimber and Brandon discover it. Very clever.

 The relationship between Kimber and Brandon progresses pretty quickly, but not unrealistically so. There was of course the initial fake-dating but want to be real-dating awkwardness, but they actually communicate like reasonable people. There’s no third-act breakup to deal with.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

Again, this is a suspense novel, so expect people to die. If you don’t like elevators, be warned—there are some scary scenes in elevators. There is shooting and blood. People drink socially. There is some kissing.

 Who Might Like This Book:

Those who like romantic suspense, particularly without gore, sex, or cursing. Those who are interested in the publishing industry.

 Thank you to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

  

Staged Evidence
Pen and Dagger #2
By Traci Hunter Abramson
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: April 7, 2026
Print length: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 978-163993473

 Publisher’s Blurb:

When Tessa Seidel delivers costumes to a Manhattan television studio late at night, she expects an empty set--not a murder scene. After stumbling upon a woman's body and nearly being attacked by a man fleeing the scene, Tessa escapes with no idea who to trust--and a fear that the killer knows who she is.

Desperate, she runs to a friend's beach house in the Hamptons, where Broadway playwright Parker Sawyer is retreating to finish his next script. But he knows danger when he sees it and offers to shelter Tessa, even when they find out she is being accused of committing the murder.

Back in Manhattan, CIA operatives Kimber Seidel and Brandon Hale realize Tessa is being framed. But with a powerful suspect manipulating the investigation, clearing Tessa's name won't be easy.

If they can't unravel the truth in time, Tessa won't just be the prime suspect--she'll be the next victim.

 My Thoughts:

Kimber and Brandon are back, though they are not the main focus of this one. Now we switch to Kimber’s fashionista sister Tessa. She accidentally comes across a murder victim while delivering clothing to Ian Sawyer’s television set late at night and ends up as a prime suspect in the murder. Panicked, she runs to Ian’s house in the Hamptons, which Kimber had just left hours before. She finds Ian’s nephew Parker there instead.

 Kimber and Brandon make the difficult decision to protect Tessa by disclaiming any knowledge of her whereabouts. Parker, struggling with writers block, decides to help Tessa by hiding her in a friend’s cabin in the woods. Without being able to call, he instead writes Tessa’s story as his new play, sending it to Ian as their means of communication about what’s happening. Ian and Kimber share what they have learned by “cowriting” scenes in the play.

 Parker and Tessa are attracted to each other immediately. At first, they question the attraction as being born of the situation, but they move past that pretty quickly. Maybe a little too quickly, but it’s not outrageous.

 The unraveling of the crime falls mainly to Kimber and Brandon, though Tessa and Parker do play a part. I liked the communicating-via-play script device. The reveal of who the murderer was and the reason behind it was believable. I did find that Abramson relies way too much in this book on people getting goosebumps. A minor quibble, to be sure. We do get to see side characters from the first book, which is something Abramson always does well at and which I appreciate.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

Blood and death. Threatening situations. Kissing. Kimber and Brandon don’t exactly lie to the police, but they aren’t forthcoming either.

 Who Might Like This Book:

Those who like suspense, especially series, and who like some romance with their suspense.

Thank you to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

 #biblioquacious #NetGalley #bookreview #bookblogger #suspense #romanticsuspense #shadowmountain #TraciHunterAbramson #hometownvendetta #victim8 #novelthreat #stagedevidence 

Regency Romance with a Dash of Mystery

 

A Heart Worth Stealing
Bow Street #1
By Joanna Barker
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: May 2, 2023
Print length: 288 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1639931040

 Publisher’s Blurb:

Little Sowerby, England, 1802

Miss Genevieve Wilde―a magistrate’s daughter and independent heiress―is determined to meet life’s challenges all on her own, just as her late father had taught her. So when her father’s pocket watch is stolen, she will do anything to get it back, especially when the local authorities prove incompetent.

 Upon reading an advertisement in the paper, she takes a chance and contacts a thief-taker to find the watch. It’s a choice Ginny regrets when former Bow Street officer Jack Travers arrives on her doorstep. He is frustratingly flirtatious, irritatingly handsome, and entirely unpredictable, and Ginny wonders if she’ll be able to resist such a man.

 But after Ginny discovers that the missing watch is just a small part of a larger, more frightening plot against her, she needs Jack’s help more than ever. To protect her home and her reputation, the two enter into a risky charade―pretending Jack is her cousin so he can begin his investigation, starting with the household staff. As they work together to unravel the mystery, Ginny finds herself falling fast for her charismatic thief-taker, leaving her heart in just as much danger as her life.

 So True a Love
Bow Street #2
By Joanna Barker
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: September 3, 2024
Print length: 256 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1639932948

 Publisher’s Blurb:

London, 1803

As the daughter of a renowned actress, Verity Travers is a privileged lady of high society—and the last woman one would suspect as having worked as a private investigator. But she has hung up that dangerous hat to live the uninspiring life of a gentlewoman. However, when she and her dearest friend become victims of an armed robbery, Verity finds herself swept back into the clandestine world of mystery and crime as she seeks to bring the thief to justice. There’s just one complication: the persistent and dashingly handsome Bow Street Runner Nathaniel Denning, who always seems to cross her path.

Verity is confident she could accomplish her work quickly if only Nathaniel would stay out of her way. Focusing on the task at hand becomes more and more difficult as his keen mind, quick wit, and determination to keep her out of danger muddle her progress—and her heart.

When the two rival investigators learn they are both pursuing the same cunning criminal, they must figure out how to navigate the delicate dance of cooperation amid a backdrop of increasing peril and an irresistible passion that sets their hearts ablaze.

 

A Love Most Daring
Bow Street #3
By Joanna Barker
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Publication date: March 3, 2026
Print length: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1639934713

 Publisher’s Blurb:

After years of whispered gossip and quiet exile in the countryside, Beatrice Lacey arrives in London determined to reclaim her life. But her resolve is shaken when she witnesses a horrific attack tied to a chilling high-profile murder case gripping the city.

 Thrust into sudden danger, Beatrice finds herself under the reluctant protection of Alexander Rawlings—a brooding Bow Street officer with a guarded heart and a fierce sense of duty. Though it's clear he’d rather be chasing the killer than shielding a scandal-stained Society miss, their forced closeness begins to unravel his defenses. In the unnerving moments between danger and discovery, every sharp exchange and lingering glance fans a slow-burning connection—one neither of them expected and neither can resist.

 With danger closing in and old wounds resurfacing, trust may be their only refuge—and love their most daring risk of all.

 My Thoughts:

These charming romances are interconnected, but can be read as standalones. It is definitely more fun to read them in order.

 Each of these stories features an intelligent, strong young woman. Each has a challenge to overcome. Each finds herself romantically entangled with a Bow Street Runner (basically, London’s first professional police force). Each ends up helping to solve a mystery.

 The first, A Heart Worth Stealing has the rather unique circumstance of a young woman who has inherited and is running her father’s estate. She is determined to prove herself. There is sort of a man in the picture—he’s proposed a couple of times, but she’s really not interested. Since he’s the local magistrate, she definitely doesn’t want to consult him when mysterious things begin to happen on her estate. So she hires a private investigator—Jack, a former Bow Street Runner.

 As they work to unravel the deepening mystery, naturally, feelings commence. I love that he is impressed by her intelligence and determination. She learns to not judge him for his cockiness—it masks something deeper.

 I particularly enjoyed the subplot between Genevieve and her half-sister.

 This first book also introduces characters that we will see in the future books.

 The second book focuses on Jack’s sister, Verity, who has been working as a sort of investigator herself, particularly for female clients. A recent traumatic event on the job has made her pull back from these activities, though, until a case comes up that she can’t resist.

 Naturally, she is forced to work closely with a Bow Street Runner—Nathaniel Denning—who is naturally reluctant to work with her. She soon proves her value to the investigation.

 Each of the protagonists in this case have parts of their past that have influenced their outlook on life, and they must learn to see things as they truly are in order for their relationship to progress.

 The third book was my favorite of the three. We finally return to Genevieve’s best friend, Beatrice. We know from the first book that something happened during her “season” in London that sent her home in disgrace. This book tells us what happened—basically, she’s a victim of bullying. Now, as she returns to London, she has two goals: Find a husband, and avoid her bully. Neither of those goals progresses quite as she had hoped.

 Alexander Rawlings has clearly heard the stories about her and judged her accordingly. So naturally, they end up having to hide together after an attack that injures him. Again, pasts are revealed and respect is earned as they unravel the mystery. I liked this one the best because of Beatrice’s vulnerability and resilience.

 In each of these three romantic mysteries, the mystery and the romance carry equal weight. The women are not mere accessories, but actively involved in solving the problem.

 We do get to see characters from previous books make appearances in the later ones.

There are some issues (at least in my review copies) of modern language, such as “catching feelings” that are a bit distracting, but overall, the editing is solid.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

These are mystery/detective stories. People die and are attacked. We see some of the less savory parts of life in London. There are women who have babies without being married. These are “clean” romances, so it doesn’t go beyond kissing.

 Who Might Like These Books:

Anyone who likes some mystery and adventure to go along with their romance. Regency romance fans. Those who like clean romance.

 Thank you to Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for providing advanced reader copies in exchange for my honest opinion.

#bookreview #netgalley #biblioquacious #bookblogger #regencyromance #romanticsuspense #cleanromance #shadowmountain #joannabarker #aheartworthstealing #sotruealove #alovemostdaring #properromance

Finding true friends

 The Roommate Arrangement
By Samantha Markum

 

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books

Publication date: January 27, 2026

Print length: 352 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1665973076

Reading age: 14 years and up

Grade level: 9 – 12

 

Publisher’s Blurb:

When Blair accidentally becomes college roommates with her brother’s best friend, sparks fly in this hilarious rom-com from bestselling author Samantha Markum, perfect for fans of Lynn Painter and Emma Lord.

Blair might be a little type-A, but she never thought of herself as completely overbearing…that is, until her two best friends drop her from their housing arrangement a week before her pre-college summer coding program is about to start.

Blair knows if she switches to an on-campus dorm, her parents will make her give up her expensive sculpture class with her dream mentor in order to pay for it. Desperate, she agrees to be the fifth roommate to four off-campus sophomores who are also in a last-minute bind. But things get complicated when one of her new roommates turns out to be her brother’s best friend, Jamie Atwater.

Blair begs Jamie not to tell her brother about the new living arrangement. Her brother would go straight to their parents, who would definitely not approve, and all her plans would fall apart. So they strike a deal: she’ll help him finish coding the app he’s building if he promises to keep her secret.

Spending more time together shouldn’t be a problem. Sure, Jamie has a new haircut, a mysterious tattoo, and a year’s worth of earned muscle, but it’s not like Blair is noticing. After all, they’re only roommates, right?

 

My Thoughts:

Blair is stuck between a rock and a hard place. Her mother and stepfather are extremely controlling and, quite frankly, snobby. They’ve chosen her future career and how she should spend her time. What she really loves is sculpture, and when her “best” friends pull out of a rooming agreement for college, she is left scrambling to find a place. Naturally, she accidentally ends up with her misfit older brother’s best friend. Whom she hates. And believes hates her. Or whatever.

 

Of course, things develop. It turns out that Jamie’s really not so bad. And Blair finds out what it really means to be accepted and supported by friends. The theme of found family is the best part of this story, because her own family is pretty awful. There is redemption, eventually, with her brother, and it’s a sweet moment.

 

Watching Blair struggle in her summer coding program is really hard. Particularly with the bully of a professor. But the support she received from her sculpture mentor makes up for a lot of that. Blair eventually learns to let go and trust herself. And Jamie.

 

Possible objectionable material:

Teens drink and party. End of a friendship. Lying to parents. Blair has been sexually active in the past. Innuendo. Swearing, including the F word. Blair has a panic attack. A character is nonbinary.

 

Who might like this book:

People who like stories of found family and overcoming difficulties. Those who like art. Blair talks about herself as “fat”, so those who like female main characters who don’t fit the usual mold.

 

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

 

#BookReview #BookBlogger #NetGalley #YA #YARomance #The Roommate Arrangement #SamanthaMarkum

All the way to the supreme court

 Lovely One (Adapted for Young Adults)
By Ketanji Brown Jackson

 

Publisher: Bright Matter Books

Publication date: January 20, 2026

Print length: 368 pages

ISBN-13: 979-8217117772

Reading age: 12 years and up

Grade level: 7 – 9

 

Publisher’s Blurb:

The New York Times bestselling memoir now adapted for young adults! Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to ever be appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court, chronicles her life story and her extraordinary path to becoming a jurist on America's highest court in this inspiring, intimate memoir.

Growing up, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's parents taught her that she could achieve anything she wanted, and be whoever she wanted to be. In high school, she dreamt of being a Supreme Court judge. In 2022, her dream came true: she was sworn in as the first African American woman judge.

Lovely One is Justice Jackson's journey to making her dreams a reality, the hurdles she faced, and the lessons she learned along the way. She recalls feeling different and lonely as one of the few Black kids at her high school. At Harvard University, she was homesick and grappled with imposter syndrome. She took on the difficulties of working in the legal field as a Black woman, and the challenges of balancing a career and relationships.

But Justice Jackson persevered. She found like-minded people at her high school's speech club and Harvard's musical theatre group. With support from her family and strength from friends, she took on the world with optimism, determination, and hard work. Justice Jackson's story will resonate with dreamers everywhere, spreading hope and inspiration for generations to come.

This young adult adaptation has a brand-new preface and epilogue and includes an exclusive prize-winning speech the justice delivered as a high school student.

 

My Thoughts:

This is an accessible and interesting account of Justice Jackson’s life and development. She set her sights high from a young age and, with a very supportive family and community, was able to achieve things so many young people—and especially young people of color—do not.

 

That’s not to say that there were no struggles. In her youth, Jackson often felt a sense of isolation as the only Black woman in many of her educational endeavors. She relates her lived experiences with racism and prejudice frankly, but not in a way that is self-pitying.

 

I, of course, love the accounts of her competitive speech and debate career. We in the speech and debate world are inordinately proud of our alumni who are examples of just how far the skills learned in our activity can take you.

 

Jackson is also frank about negotiating a marriage with two intense careers and her struggles as a parent of a child who was eventually diagnosed with autism. Having my own neuro-spicy child, I was able to relate to the sense of frustration and embarrassment with having a child who doesn’t behave “normally” at school and is yet extremely bright and capable.

 

All in all, an inspiring look at someone who is a role model for all young people who want to achieve at high levels.

 

Possible objectionable material:

Honest discussions about racism and prejudice, and racial injustice. Family members die. One is imprisoned for drug-related offenses. A child struggles with autism. Jackson is from a church-going family and expresses faith in this book.

 

Who might like this book:

Those who enjoy biographies, especially of currently living people. Those who are curious about Jackson, specifically.

 

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

 

#BookReview #BookBlogger #NetGalley #Autobiography #LovelyOne #KetanjiBrownJackson

Murder...and recipes

The Crime Brulee Bake-Off
By Rebecca Connolly
Claire Walker #1

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Publication date: February 4, 2025

Print length: 320 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1639933044

 Publisher’s Blurb:

When Claire Walker is selected to be a contestant on the immensely popular cooking show, Britian’s Battle of the Bakers, she is thrilled. She can’t wait to spend eight enchanting weeks baking at the picturesque estate of Blackfirth Park. She can almost smell the fresh pastries wafting through the air as she and her fellow contestants use historical equipment to bring pre-1900s recipes to life. If she can win the fifty thousand pounds, she’ll be able to ditch her teaching job and launch her baking career.

The Viscount of Colburn, Jonathan Ainsley, is the custodian of Blackfirth Park and an eligible bachelor. With his family’s income dwindling, he reluctantly agrees to host the entire production team, but he refuses to participate since he’s had enough of single women who see him as nothing more than a potential conquest. But when a contestant is found dead soon after filming begins, Jonathan is forced to get involved. To make matters worse, the baker’s death is eerily similar to the legendary death of the tenth Viscountess of Colburn two hundred and fifty years earlier, which sends rumors racing through the estate.

Even as suspicion falls on some of the bakers, a decidedly different kind of heat begins to simmer between Claire and Jonathan. If they are to have any hope of a future romance, they must first solve the mystery before the show gets canceled or someone else falls prey to the Blackfirth Park ghost.

Mayhem on the Marzipan Express
By Rebecca Connolly
Claire Walker #2

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing

Publication date: January 6, 2026

Print length: 320 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1639935000

 Publisher’s Blurb:

Amateur baker and part-time sleuth Claire Walker is looking forward to a vacation with her boyfriend, Jonathan Ainsley. The happy couple boards the famed Scottish train, the Mallaig Steam Express—temporarily renamed “The Marzipan Express” in honor of chef Alan Gables, who is hosting an exclusive culinary experience for his most devoted fans.

 The trip has barely begun when Claire and Jonny discover a dead body, and though it appears to be an accident, Claire can sense something is wrong as easily as she can sense an overbaked soufflé. All clues point to Alan as the culprit: He doesn’t have an alibi, his assistant is oddly nervous around him, and a shadowy figure keeps appearing at all the wrong times. Is someone from Alan’s past trying to frame him? Or could Alan be trying to cover his tracks?

 Claire had hoped for a delicious, romantic getaway, not investigating a mysterious death while stress-eating trifle in the kitchen car and trying to not be jealous of a magazine reporter who is flirting with Jonny. It’s mayhem in more ways than one.

My Thoughts:

These cozy culinary mysteries—with a side of romance—are a lot of fun. Yes, the baking competition is definitely an ode to Great British Baking. Yes, you can see the romance coming. But the setup of the mystery, particularly in the first book, is well done.

For 320-page books, these were quick reads. Description is good, and dialogue pops. The bromance between Jonny and Alan in the second book is an absolute hoot. There are some occasional mis-uses of words and odd constructions, plus a couple of fact-checking errors in my advanced reader copies that I hope were cleared up on final.

I like the romance between Claire and Jonny, but one thing sticks out to me: Why is she so insecure? There’s no real backstory there. The second book does give a little bit of explanation on why Jonny is so anti-social, but there’s really not much explanation for Claire.

Supporting characters are well-done and exist as actual characters, not cardboard cutouts. The reporter in the second book, as well as the assistant, are a bit “stock” but not so much that they ruin things.

 All-in-all, these are good reads that don’t demand much.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

People are murdered, though not on the page and description of the bodies is not graphic. Rumors of a ghost in the first book. Side mention of people having a “hookup” in the second book.

 Who Might Like These Books:

Mystery fans, particularly when there are recipes involved! Food lovers. Fans of Great British Baking. Those who like a little romance in their mystery.

 Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

 #CrimeBruleeBakeOff #MayhemOnTheMarzipanExpress #ClaireWalker #RebeccaConnolly #ShadowMountain #CulinaryMystery #CozyMystery #BookReview #BookBlogger #Biblioquacious #NetGalley

Little-Known History

Balkan Legends
By A. L. Sowards
 

A.L. Sowards is one of the best historical novelists I’ve read. Her work is scrupulously researched, and she doesn’t shy away from tough topics. I love that she takes on some lesser-known eras and events.

The Balkan Legends series is one example of that, focusing on the late 14^th century conflicts between Serbians and the invading Ottoman empire, a piece of history that very few of us know much about. The Muslim Ottomans spread over the are we know as “the Balkans”, pillaging and forcing local leaders into a form of servitude. Once subjugated, local leaders were left to do more or less as they pleased, but they had to pay tribute, in money and goods, and provide men to fight on behalf of their Ottoman rulers as they continued their quest to dominate that part of the world.

That is the society Sowards brings us into, mixing true history with her own storyline to teach us about life in that time and place. She combines war, faith, and romance and presents us with well-rounded characters whom we learn to love over the course of the series.

Before you continue, please be aware that the descriptions of later books may contain spoilers, though none of them spoil anything crucial.

After the Crescent Strike
Balkan Legends .5
By A. L. Sowards

 ASIN: B0CVC7WHGB

Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing

Publication date: March 5, 2024

Print length: 182 pages 

ISBN-13: 978-1649332882

Publisher’s Blurb:

The Balkans, 1371

After conquering the Serbian army in battle, bands of Ottoman warriors terrorize the land, leaving a trail of death and destruction in their wake. As one of the few survivors of a deadly attack on her village, Magdalena is determined to protect her newly orphaned niece. When a group of battle-weary Serb warriors offers to lead Magdalena and her charge to safety, a flame of hope flickers to life for the desperate woman, burning brighter when she spots a familiar face among the group: Miladin, the man she once loved—and lost.

Following a devastating defeat on the battlefield, Miladin resolves to return home to Rivak and pledge his loyalty to the new župan, Konstantin, the young son of the slain leader who led Miladin to war. As Miladin travels back from the Maritsa River Valley to offer aid and allegiance to the inexperienced youth, he expects the way will be fraught with danger, but he never dreams that the journey will reunite him with his first love.

Even as Magdalena and Miladin rekindle a romance once doomed by youth and circumstance, hidden threats draw ever closer. Before they can truly be safe, they must face a ruthless enemy who will stop at nothing to seize power.

My Thoughts:

This prequel novella sets up the series by explaining how Rivak comes under Ottoman rule and how Konstantin becomes zupan. Miladin is a classic example of the dutiful, loyal soldier who becomes a mentor to his young leader. Watching him be reunited with his childhood love is satisfying, particularly as he helps her to overcome the trauma of her marriage and the Ottoman attack on her village.

Beneath a Crescent Shadow
Balkan Legends 1
By A. L. Sowards

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Publication date: June 4, 2024

Print length: 368 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1639932467

Book 1 of 3: The Balkan Legends

 

Publisher’s Blurb:

The Balkans, 1373

A devastating battle claimed the lives of Konstantin's father, uncle, and most of their Serb army, leaving him to rule as a vassal of the Ottoman sultan, a role he is wholly unprepared for. Between war, famine, and a persistent band of brigands, Konstantin is nearly bankrupt. He will need to find a wealthy bride to marry if he is to have any hope of saving his lands and securing his future.

A betrothal to Suzana, the daughter of a prosperous merchant, is soon arranged, and upon meeting her, Konstantin immediately feels hope that their marriage could someday grow into love. Yet, from the moment of Konstantin and Suzana's betrothal, enemies threaten their lives, outlaws prey on their lands, and the terrors of Suzana's abusive past haunt their fragile new relationship. As this onslaught of threats closes in, the two face challenges that will test their love, their faith, and their hope to save their people and win their freedom from the heavy weight of Ottoman oppression.

My Thoughts:

A couple of years have passed, and Rivak is struggling to pay its tribute to the sultan. His grandfather arranges a marriage with Suzana, daughter of a wealthy merchant, and, fortunately for Konstantin, the two find themselves compatible.

Their road together is not easy, as Rivak continues to struggle, and they discover a traitor within the town. Suzana also has a secret that she fears will make Konstantin hate her.

As with the prequel, the growing love between the two is not the primary focus of the story, though it is definitely part of the plot. We see the return of characters that we got to know in the novella, as well as gaining a deeper knowledge of Konstantin’s family—which, since his brother and cousin are the protagonists of the remain books—is a good thing. 

Sowards' narrative style is clear and descriptive, without leaning on sensationalism. She does not sugar-coat life in 14^th Serbia. Even without war, life was hard. Sowards helps us to see a group of people who do the best they can every day. They are not without flaws. They have crises of faith—in themselves, in other, and in God.

Beyond the Crescent Sky
Balkan Legends 2
By A. L. Sowards

Publisher: Shadow Mountain

Publication date: January 7, 2025

Print length: 368 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1639933006

Book 2 of 3: The Balkan Legends

Publisher’s Blurb:

The Balkans, 1383

A sudden conflict between Serbs and Greeks has forced Ivan to join his brother and fight with the Serbian army. On the battlefield, Ivan is wounded and captured by the hostile Greeks, and he soon becomes a hostage to be used as a pawn in a deadly bid for power.

Helena, a Greek midwife, is tasked to care for Ivan, a request that will not only test her healing abilities but also her loyalty. Though war has made her reluctant patient an enemy, she can’t help but forge a connection with him, yet falling in love with him could turn her world upside down and brand her a traitor.

As the Ottoman Empire extends its grip into the Balkans, events beyond their control force Ivan and Helena to choose between loyalty to their families and people or following the longings of their hearts.

Award-winning historical novelist A. L. Sowards creates an engaging world of overlords and spies, rebellions and battlefields, and forbidden love.

My Thoughts:

Ten years have passed, and we now turn to Konstantin’s younger brother Ivan. He is no longer a sickly child, but an able warrior. Through the treachery of an Ottoman spy, he ends up a near-dead prisoner in a Greek town, where he meets Helena, related by marriage to the local leader.

At first, Ivan does everything he can to escape—repeatedly. Eventually, as trust builds between him and Helena, who has nursed him back to health, he stops his attempts, despite continued abuse by some of the Greek soldiers.

This is my favorite of the books in this series. Ivan and Helena are kept apart by politics over and over, and they come close to losing faith more than once. Honestly, Sowards is really mean to her characters!

But they are refined by their suffering, and, as we expect in a series with strong romantic subplots, they are able to be together after years.

As in the other books, themes of faith and fighting against oppression are strong. We continue to enjoy characters we have met before, although we do lose some along the way. 

Against a Crescent Storm
Balkan Legends 3
By A. L. Sowards

 Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing

Publication date: November 4, 2025

Print length: 368 pages

ISBN-13: 978-1639934539

Book 3 of 3: The Balkan Legends

 Publisher’s Blurb:

 The Balkans, 1389

Three years ago, Danilo’s people won their freedom from the hated Ottoman Empire, but with enemies on every side, the Serbs’ hard-earned peace remains fragile. Knowing the sultan will soon come for revenge, Danilo sets out to gain key allies for the coming war—and to escape the haunting grief of personal loss.

War has orphaned Maja and her brother, but they’ve moved forward from the turbulent aftermath of battle by crafting religious mosaics. Yet after being cheated and robbed, they are desperate for help. Rescue comes from Danilo, the man who once saved them from slavery to the Turks. What begins as an offer for safe escort is soon complicated by threats from a Hungarian noble who suspects them of conspiracy and from Iskandar, an Ottoman spy consumed by a vendetta against Danilo and a dangerous obsession with Maja.

As their journey grows more perilous, Danilo and Maja are drawn together by shared grief and affection. Yet upon returning home, Danilo finds that his župan, unaware of Danilo’s growing emotional entanglement with Maja, plans to use Danilo’s hand in marriage as a tool to forge a crucial alliance. Danilo is soon torn between love for Maja and loyalty to his family and people.

As tensions escalate, sabotage and vicious rumors weaken Christian unity, and hope of victory in the Balkans grows dim. Allies and enemies converge on the fields of Kosovo, where an epic battle will shape the destiny of nations for centuries to come.

 My Thoughts:

We now turn to Danilo, the half-Turkish cousin to Konstantin and Ivan. As Ivan takes over his grandfather’s grad, Danilo is his right-hand man. Still grieving the loss of his wife and child, he throws himself into his work.

 For Maja, trying to earn a living with her brother as a mosaicist for churches, meeting Danilo is a life-saver. And not for the first time! They become friends, then more.

 Of course it can’t be that simple. An antagonist from the previous book is obsessed with two things: Making Maja his own, and revenge on Ivan and Danilo. And Konstantin, unaware of Danilo’s growing feelings for Maja, arranges a politically advantageous marriage for him.

Overcoming these obstacles is the focus of this final installment. As these struggles, and the larger struggle for independence and prosperity, are resolved, we are not left with a perfectly neat and tidy conclusion.

 Our characters are happy in their lives, despite their hardships, but, again, life in this time and place is hard. We are left satisfied with their situation, and with hope that, although we won’t witness any more of their story, it will be a good one.

 Possible Objectionable Material:

The violence of war and the killing of innocent people (and way too many horses). Sexual assault and attempted sexual assault (not described). Family disfunction, including abuse. Pregnancy loss. Non-graphic descriptions of battle wounds. Betrayal and obsession.

 Who Might Like These Books:

Those who enjoy history, particularly of lesser-known times and places. And, of course, those who enjoy a little romance with their history.

 Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing ARCs in exchange for my honest opinion.

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