Posts Tagged 'betrayal'

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A Queen’s Game by Katherine McGee

Published March 4, 2025 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Historical Fiction Romance

This historical fiction book follows real figures throughout history, but puts a modern spin on their stories. Alix of Hesse is Queen Victoria’s favorite granddaughter and everyone who meets her is enamored with her as she is very beautiful and charming. She is expected to marry the heir to the English throne, but Alix isn’t sure that is what she really wants. She suffered a traumatic event when she was young and there are lingering side effects that she isn’t sure would be conducive to a very public life. Helene D’Orleans is the daughter of the exiled King of France, but many still regard her as a princess. She has come to realize that she does not have to uphold some of the stringent rules that active princesses do and she enjoys the freedom. However, when she does end up finding a suitable match for herself she is worried her past behavior might cause issues after all in her finding her happy ending. May of Teck has a troubled home life and would love to get married and find her own place in the world, but she has been unable to find a suitable match and her parents blame her for not being married yet. Will she be able to fine a husband before it is too late and she is considered an “old maid?” Will any of these young women be able to voice what they would like to do with their own lives?

This new series by the author of the American Royals is fun and engaging, but it will be interesting to see how if plays out since these characters were real people in history. Similar to McGee’s first series, the characters all have their reasons for doing what they do and it’s easy to see how miscommunications can occur. The rules of society in this time are finite and they all must abide by them if they want to participate. Modern issues such as mental health and women’s rights are touched upon and will no doubt be explored further in what is sure to be a series. Recommended for fans of American Royals and The Selection.

When Mimi Went Missing by Suja Sukumar

Published February 25, 2025 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Mystery

Tanvi went to live with her aunt and cousin, Mimi, when her parents died in a horrific car accident. Tanvi suffered from anxiety and nightmares as a result, but Mimi and her mom were always there for her. That’s why it was so hard for her when Mimi all of a sudden dropped Mimi for the most popular girl in school, Beth. Together, they were ruthless to Tanvi and made her life a living hell. She never told her aunt, however, because she was always hoping that eventually Mimi would want to rekindle their relationship and be like sisters again. Then, one day, Mimi disappears and Tanvi feels like she should know more than she does. She woke up with a huge bump on her head and bruises on her arms and legs, but no memory or anything after she went to sleep the night before. Meanwhile, Beth is telling everyone that Tanvi must have done something because there is “something wrong with her.” As Tanvi begins to spiral with worry she starts to wonder if it’s possible she could have done something to Mimi without remembering? If not her, then who would want to hurt Mimi?

This mystery moves along quickly and delves into the topic of mental health, bullying, and ptsd. There are many possible suspects for who might be responsible for Mimi’s disappearance and it isn’t until the very end that it all becomes clear. The ending is very dramatic and exciting, if maybe a bit too tidy. Fans of April Henry will enjoy the fast paced story and the satisfying ending.

Where the Library Hides by Isabel Ibanez

Published February 18, 2025 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Historical Fiction/Romance

In this sequel to What the River Knows, Whit and Inez get married to avoid her getting sent home by her uncle,Ricardo. This causes quite a stir when her Ricardo finds out, but they are so focused on finding Inez’s mother and the artifacts she stole that it overshadows everything else. When they receive word that Ricardo and his partner have been betrayed by the man they hired to secure their excavation of Cleopatra’s tomb, Whit and Ricardo immediately head to the tomb only to discover it has been completely stripped of everything, including Cleopatra’s mummy. Upon return to the hotel, Ricardo and his partner, Abdullah, who has been injured, are both arrested for keeping the discovery of Cleopatra’s tomb a secret from the government. Inez knows that the only way to save them is to find her mother and the artifacts from Cleopatra’s tomb. Meanwhile, Isadora, the daughter of the man who betrayed them, arrives and claims to be an innocent victim with a surprising story to tell. Can she trust Isadora? Will she ever find out what happened to her father? What will she do if she’s ever faced with her deceitful mother again? Will her and Whit be able to make their marriage work despite the many difficulties they face?

The conclusion of this story is exciting, powerful, and action packed. The characters are all so multi-dimensional that it is very difficult to decipher who Inez can really trust. There are many questions left after the first novel concludes, but this one does a commendable job getting answers and illustrating the true intentions of the characters. The final resolution will satisfy readers and also leave them wanting more about this setting and these characters. Recommended for readers looking for something unique with a romantic twist.

What the River Knows by Isabel Ibanez

Published February 4, 2025 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Historical Fiction

Inez lives in Buenos Aires with her aunt and cousins. Her parents spend half the year in Argentina and half in Egypt where they work with archeologists. Inez has longed to go with them since she can remember, but her parents have always told her she must remain in Argentina. Suddenly, her father sends her a package that only contains a gold rings. When her parents are lost and presumed dead she goes against everyone’s wishes and makes the long journey to Egypt. She is met by her uncle’s employee, Whit, who has been told to put her on the next boat back to Argentina. However, Inez cannot be handled that easily and decides she isn’t ready to go home yet. She manages to make it to the hotel her parents stayed at and finally sees her Uncle. Her Uncle is not happy to see her and tries over and over to send her back home, but Inez feels she can be useful to the work they are doing, especially since she can now detect items that belonged to Cleopatra after trying on the ring her father sent her. Could he have sent her Cleopatra’s ring? Why did he send it when he believed so strongly in keeping artifacts where they originated? Did he know his life was in danger and is that why he sent her the ring? Will she and Whit ever get along or will he always see her as a nuisance?

This historical fiction story is fun and full of adventure. Readers will enjoy the unusual setting for a historical fiction novel and become invested in Inez and her quest for the truth. There are several supporting characters and there’s definitely a feeling of unease about who can be trusted, but even at the end of this first novel it remains unclear whose motivations are honest and who might be waiting to betray Inez. There is a touch of romance as well, so anyone who enjoys romances set in unique time periods will also like that aspect of it. The ending feels exciting and not too rushed, while also leaving the door open to a very exciting sequel.

The Wild Huntress by Emily Lloyd-Jones

Published January 21, 2025 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Fantasy

Every five years two kingdoms put on a “Wild Hunt.” The risks are pretty high as many people do not survive, but the winner gets a wish of anything he or she wants so there’s always a lot of people willing to take on the challenge. Branwen accidentally received the ability to see all magic with one of her eyes. It’s a dangerous gift, though, and causes her physical pain if she uses that eye too much so she wears an iron patch over it most of the time. Her mother has gotten a memory disease that Branwen is desperate to help her with, which is why she agrees when Gwydion asks her to join him in the hunt. Gwydion comes from a magical family where everyone looks down on his gift of manipulating plants. He knows his uncle is going to name his older brother as his successor and Gwydion knows that is a mistake because his brother is temperamental and impulsive, while his sister has all the markings of a great ruler. Gwydion makes a deal with his uncle not to name a successor until after the hunt because he thinks if he wins he can convince him to choose someone else instead. Pryderi was born a prince, but shortly after birth was kidnapped by a monster and raised until he was a child. Then, a farmer saved him and raised him as his own. When it was discovered who he really was he was sent to his father’s kingdom and expected to act as the heir. The problem is that Pryderi isn’t sure if he wants to rule. When the three of them join together to form a team they feel they have a good chance of winning the hunt. However, there are some things about the competition that are not revealed until after it begins. Will they manage to find a way to persevere? Can they truly trust each other or is everyone out for themselves?

This fantasy story has it all: adventure, treachery, betrayal, and even some romance. The Wild Hunt is unique enough that it stands out from other books that have magical competitions. The three main characters are easy to differentiate due to their backgrounds and individual strengths. Branwen is the first one introduced so it’s easy to really care about her and her mother’s illness. Gwydion and Pryderi both have noble causes they want to strive for, but both aren’t entirely sure where they personally want their lives to go, which is easy for young people to identify with. The ending is exciting and satisfying and will leave readers energized. Recommended for fantasy lovers.

One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware

Published November 19, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Mystery

Lyla has been with her boyfriend, Nico, for a few years and although they are happy she isn’t sure where it is really going. Plus, her post doctoral research has hit an unfortunate snag and she isn’t sure what that means for her career. Therefore, when Nico comes to her with an opportunity to be in a reality show for couples on a deserted island she isn’t sure it is a good idea. As an aspiring actor, Nico very much wants the chance to be on a tv show. He even suggests that Lyla purposefully get voted off early so she can return to work and he can stay on the show. Reluctantly, Lyla agrees even though something feels off to her about this show. When they arrive and meet the other couples she notices that a few of them seem to know each other, though they are pretending not to. Once the show actually begins it is not at all what Lyla expected and is stunned when she is not the first person to go home. After the first elimination, a terrible storm hits the island that knocks out all communication and connection to the outside world. The film crew had left for the night and does not return by morning. Are they on their own now? What will they do if no one comes looking for them? Will they work together to survive or will some contestants rise up and try to take control of the others?

Fans of And Then There Were None would enjoy this fast paced thrilling mystery. Lyla does not want to be on a reality show and yet has found herself in the middle of a real mess. Once the storm hits and it is uncertain who even knows their whereabouts it becomes clear that they are on their own. The other contestants start to stand out as they all find their place within the group. It’s written in a way that the reader really feels what it would be like to be on this island with these poor people. Recommended for readers who like suspenseful mysteries and survival stories.

The UnWedding by Allyson Condie

Published November 5, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Mystery

Ellery was supposed to go on a romantic remote getaway to a beautiful resort with her husband for their anniversary, but when he suddenly announced that he wanted a divorce she ends up going all on her own. At first, Ellery feels out of place and lonely, especially when she sees there is going to be a wedding there, but she meets some new friends and begins to enjoy herself. Then, after waking up early to go for a swim, she makes a terrible discovery of the groom floating face down in the resort pool. She tries to get him out, but it was too late. Everyone knew he had not shown up for the wedding, but now everyone is wondering if he was dead before or after he failed to show up. It’s especially confusing since he was clearly dressed for the wedding. To make matters worse, there was a terrible storm that washed out the bridge and took out most communication so she cannot reach out to her kids and they cannot reach the police. They are stuck there with no knowledge of when they might be able to get out and hoping there isn’t a killer on the loose. Ellery and her new friends decide they might as well do a little investigating while they are there, but it quickly becomes apparent that someone does not want them looking into this suspicious death. Can Ellery figure out who would want to hurt a groom on his wedding day? Will anyone else get hurt while they are isolated at this resort? Will she ever start to feel ready to move on from her marriage?

Fans of mysteries such as The Couple Next Door, The Perfect Couple, and the Woman in Cabin 10 will enjoy this title. The main character is sympathetic and feels like anyone would feel if they stumbled into this situation. The people at the resort are colorful and easy to distinguish from each other. The mystery itself has several twists and turns, but the resolution is satisfying and realistic. Recommended for readers who love a good mystery, but aren’t looking for anything too dark or heavy.

Poison in their Hearts by Laura Sebastian

Published October 22, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Fantasy

In this final installment of the Castles in their Bones series, Daphne and Beatriz work together to try and overcome the horrendous plans set out by their mother to take over all of the kingdoms at any cost. However, it will not be easy as their mother always seems to be a step ahead and has spies everywhere. In fact, before Beatriz can get to Daphne, she is betrayed, drugged, and sent back to the kingdom she desperately wants to flee. Meanwhile, Violie is trying to maintain the ruse that she is in fact Princess Sophronia (with Daphne’s help). Can they find a way, with their allies, to outsmart their mother and somehow keep the prophecy of their deaths from coming to fruition? Will they be able to find a way to get the support of the people against their mother, who appears from the outside to be a kind leader? Do they have what it takes to really stand up to the one who raised them for this very purpose?

This final installment is every bit as engaging as the first two and will make readers wish the series continued on. The sisters, continue to become more complex and endearing characters, but the supporting characters also become more developed as each impacts the ultimate resolution. This story does not shy away from violence as a means to an end, but it is never too graphic or overwhelming. The ending contains many twists and turns, which is impressive considering how far this story has already taken readers, but at no point does anything seem outlandish or exaggerated. This book finishes out the trilogy in such a satisfying way that the previous two books seem even better now that the resolution is clear. Recommended for fantasy and romance readers.

Tag, You’re Dead by Kathryn Foxfield

Published October 15, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Mystery

Anton Fraser, a teen reality star known for crazy antics, announces he will be running a giant live-streamed game of tag. Each contestant (100 in total) will have the latest tech to help them on the game, including body cams that will be watching their every move. The game cannot distract from the fact that Anton disappeared from public life after one of his employees died suspiciously at his sprawling mansion. It was ruled a suicide, but there were always questions and the answers are now threatening to come out. After the game starts it becomes clear that some people are in it for different reasons than just the cash prize. Grayson, for example, wants to avenge the love of his life who died in Anton’s employ, but first he must do well enough to get close to him. Erin needs to win for her mother, who has placed a lot of pressure on Erin to win at all costs. Charlotte really does believe she is Anton’s biggest fan and believes they could form a relationship if only they got to know one another. As the game gets started and they are assigned to be Chasers and Runners it becomes clear that not everything is at seems and when a dead body is discovered it changes everything. Is it all part of the game? Has someone taken control of the game? Is there anyone they can trust?

This fun, fast paced mystery is great for reluctant readers because there is a lot of action but it’s also written in a way that readers who maybe favor YouTube or videogames can really get interested in. The characters are all easy to distinguish and all have their own motivations for wanting to participate in this crazy game. The ending will surprise many, but in a good way for mystery fans who like to be caught off guard. Recommended for mystery fans and those looking for something exciting with a modern twist.

These Deadly Prophecies by Andrea Tang

Published October 8, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Fantasy

Tabatha is the apprentice to one of the world’s most famous sorcerer’s and so far it has been a good learning experience. Until that is, when her boss predicts his own gruesome death and it actually comes true. There is a special division of law enforcement who deals with magical murders and they quickly zero in on Callum, the sorcerer’s youngest son. Callum and Tabatha decide to work together to try to figure out how someone could have killed the sorcerer in the way he died, but also who would want him dead. Many things do not add up in this mystery and there are many family members acting suspiciously in the days after the unexpected death. Moreover, Tabatha still isn’t sure who she can trust and it becomes clear that no one trusts her either. How can they solve the mystery of this near impossible crime?

This fantasy story is unique and intriguing from the beginning as the world is described and the purpose of sorcerer’s in the world becomes clear. The idea of a prophecy predicting the death of a powerful sorcerer is very interesting because he should be able to protect himself from most supernatural threats. As the family members are introduced it becomes clear that there are several dynamics at play, not to mention Tabatha suspects many of them are lying. Callum has a backstory with his father that makes his motives unclear, but for some reason he is able to convince Tabatha that he had nothing to do with his father’s death. The ending is exciting and satisfying. Recommended for fantasy fans looking for something new and different.

The Kill Factor by Ben Oliver

Published September 24, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Action/Survival

Emerson is convicted of arson and now she’s looking at murder, which carries a fifty year sentence, when a producer approaches her about becoming a contestant on his new show, The Kill Factor. If she wins the reality show she also wins her freedom, but if she loses she must spend the rest of her life in prison. Initially, she refuses the offer because she finds the producer unsettling and feels there is more to this game than he is letting on, but the prospect of winning could mean earning credits that would take care of her father and brother long after she’s gone. Reluctantly, she joins the 49 other teenage felons on a cruise ship taking them to their fate. Another contestant, Kodi, says some ominous things as they leave for their destination that makes her think he knows more about what’s going on than everyone else. As the trials begin it becomes clear that winning and losing aren’t the only two options: contestants can also die. Can Emerson survive the trials in order to earn her freedom? Can she find a way to save anyone before it is too late? Is there anyone she can trust or is everyone out for themselves?

This fast paced, action packed story will leave readers wanting to know more. Each trial is engaging in a horrific way as these teens desperately try to survive. As Emerson grows closer to people it is hard not to want to protect her friends even as she tries to save herself. The aspect of having viewers vote for their favorites also raises the stakes because it becomes a popularity contest and it becomes obvious that contestants will do whatever they need to in order to survive. The ending reveals some answers, but it also raises questions as readers will eagerly anticipate the next installment. Recommended for fans of The Hunger Games, The Testing, and other deadly competitive series.

Powerless by Lauren Roberts

Published September 13, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Fantasy

Paedyn Gray has been passing as a psychic ever since her father was brutally murdered in their home. In her kingdom, if you don’t have a magical ability you are banished or worse, so it is imperative that no one find out she’s an Ordinary. When she inadvertently saves the life of a prince everyone suddenly takes notice of her and she is forced to join the Purging Trials. The Purging Trials is a brutal competition in which Elites show their power by using their magical abilities to win dangerous events in which some do not survive. Once Paedyn begins the Purging Trials she becomes close with both princes, Kai and Kitt. Kai is the enforcer of the kingdom and is used by his father to murder or banish those he feels unworthy to live there. Kitt, on the other hand, will one day be king and tends to show more compassion and sympathy toward his subjects, but he also believes his father’s way is the only way and has no plans to change anything once he ascends the throne. Meanwhile, there is an underground movement to overthrow the king due to his ruthless tactics and malicious laws and as Paedon gets to know those around her in the Elites she can’t help but feel torn between these two groups. What would happen if Kai and Kitt found out she had ties to the rebels? Who was behind her father’s murder and can she find a way to avenge him? What will happen if the Elites find out she is truly an Ordinary?

Fans of fantasy series will love this book as it combines popular elements such as magical abilities, ruthless competitions, corrupt kings, and of course secrets. The characters are all well developed, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have the ability to change and grow as secrets are revealed. The ending is well developed as the plot twists reveal everyone is hiding something and their relationships will be forever changed. Fans of The Testing series, The Red Queen series, and other similar fantasy series will enjoy this book and be racing to get the next one in the series.

The Blood Years by Elana K. Arnold

Published September 10, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Historical Fiction

This powerful story set in 1930s-1940s Romania is based on the author’s grandmother. Rieke is a young girl whose father frequently abandons her, her mother, and her sister. Finally, in an act of desperation, her older sister Astra begs a neighbor to call her grandfather, Opa, and he comes to take them all to her house where he can keep them fed and healthy. Unfortunately, they are invaded by the Soviets who do not care for Jews and they all begin to face hardships regarding all aspects of daily life such as going to school, getting groceries, and even Opa’s jewelry shop. Throughout it all, Rieke tries to remain positive as her Opa prays and her sister begins running around with a secret boyfriend. Eventually, Romania falls to the Germans who somehow make life even worse for the Jews. As Rieke witnesses terrible things happen all around her she can’t help but think about all she has been through and what she will do in order to survive.

This powerful story is important for us to know about because Romania during WWII is not discussed as much as other areas and many people are unaware what life was like for Jews during this time. There were instances of forcing Jews from their homes, sending them to work camps, senselessly murdering them in the streets and so much more. These are important stories for us all to know about. Rieke also has a very unusual relationship with her sister, Astra. She both loves and adores her and also feels she is treated cruelly by her. In her eyes, no one can ever refuse Astra anything she wants which makes her a powerful force. That is great if she is on your side, but not so great if she’s not. Highly recommended for anyone who likes WWII fiction and stories about strong families overcoming hardship.

Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders adn the Birth of the FBI by David Grann (adapted for young readers)

Published August 29, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Nonfiction

This adaptation of the original Killers of the Flower Moon is so captivating that I struggled to remember what had been changed for the YA version. This story follows the Osage Native American nation in the 1920s as they enjoy an incredibly prosperous life due to oil being discovered on their tribal land. As part of the land agreement, they must be compensated for anything found on their land and as such each Osage member receives a large check each month. However, this leads to several mysterious deaths of Osage members that lead to poor investigations, if any investigation occurs at all. Molly, an Osage member, loses several family members including her mother and a sister and it isn’t until a pattern starts to arise that anyone questions these untimely deaths. It becomes quite clear, though, that law enforcement feels little pity for people who have so much money that some believe was not properly earned. Eventually, a man is selected to investigate these mysterious deaths in order to determine if someone is targeting Osage people and this eventually leads to the birth of the FBI. It is a long and difficult path to the truth in this matter, though, and revelations regarding the Osage Nation continue for many decades after the incidents took place.

This book is powerful, engaging, mysterious, interesting, and something everyone should know about this nation’s history. It is thoughtfully researched and presented in a way that the main people the story actually feel like real people with real motivations, which helps readers truly care about this story from so long ago. There are many interesting aspects in this book that are often overlooked in history lessons such as Native American history, the FBI, racism and social hierarchy, and the overall mystery of these events. Historical books that shine a light on aspects of history that are often not taught are very popular amongst young people and this book is a great example of why. This book will leave readers wanting to discuss and know more about these people and this time period. Highly Recommended.

That’s Not My Name by Megan Lally

Published May 23, 2024 Uncategorized Leave a Comment
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Genre: Suspenseful Mystery

This story alternates between Drew who is desperately trying to find his missing girlfriend, Lola, and “Mary” who was found on the side of the road and doesn’t remember who she is. Drew has become the police’s number one suspect, which has turned the whole town against him. Obviously, he doesn’t want to go to jail, but even more so he can’t understand why everyone has stopped looking for Lola. Meanwhile, “Mary” was found on the side of the road and taken to the local police office, but shortly after arriving there a frantic man arrived claiming to be her father. He had photos and documentation to prove who he is, but she can’t help feel like something isn’t right. Plus, he keeps trying to tell her what kind of person she is and what she likes to do and none of it seems right to her either. After Drew convinces Lola’s best friend that he did not hurt Lola and does in fact want to find her she agrees to help along with Drew’s cousin. It isn’t too long before they find out that a tip was called into the tip line with a possible Lola sighting five weeks after her disappearance that the police did not follow up on. How many other tips did they ignore because they were so sure Drew killed her? What lengths will Drew go to in order to find Lola? Who is the man who claimed to be “Mary’s” dad?

This thriller tale will keep readers riveted until the exciting end. It is very well written and the clues are all there, but many readers will not put them together until the end. The character development really helps the reader care about these characters and what they are going through, including the aftermath. Recommended for those who like fast paced thriller mysteries, like April Henry’s titles.

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