Book Review: All The Sinners Bleed by S.A. Cosby

A Black sheriff. A serial killer. A small town ready to combust.

Titus Crown is the first Black sheriff in the history of Charon County, Virginia. In recent decades, Charon has had only two murders. After years of working as an FBI agent, Titus knows better than anyone that while his hometown might seem like a land of moonshine, cornbread, and honeysuckle, secrets always fester under the surface.

Then a year to the day after Titus’s election, a school teacher is killed by a former student and the student is fatally shot by Titus’s deputies. Those festering secrets are now out in the open and ready to tear the town apart.

As Titus investigates the shootings, he unearths terrible crimes and a serial killer who has been hiding in plain sight, haunting the dirt lanes and woodland clearings of Charon. With the killer’s possible connections to a local church and the town’s harrowing history weighing on him, Titus projects confidence about closing the case while concealing a painful secret from his own past. At the same time, he also has to contend with a far-right group that wants to hold a parade in celebration of the town’s Confederate history.

Powerful and unforgettable, All the Sinners Bleed confirms S. A. Cosby as “one of the most muscular, distinctive, grab-you-by-both-ears voices in American crime fiction” (The Washington Post).

The Favorites by Layne Fargo

 

To the world, they were a scandal. To each other, an obsession.

NATIONAL BESTSELLER • An epic love story set in the sparkling, savage sphere of elite figure skating, starring a woman determined to carve her own path on and off the ice

“Part Wuthering Heights and part Daisy Jones & The Six, this novel is as brilliantly choreographed as a gold medal performance and will keep you guessing until its last page.”—Jodi Picoult, New York Times bestselling author of By Any Other Name

She might not have a famous name, funding, or her family’s support, but Katarina Shaw has always known that she was destined to become an Olympic skater. When she meets Heath Rocha, a lonely kid stuck in the foster care system, their instant connection makes them a formidable duo on the ice. Clinging to skating—and each other—to escape their turbulent lives, Kat and Heath go from childhood sweethearts to champion ice dancers, captivating the world with their scorching chemistry, rebellious style, and roller-coaster relationship.

Until a shocking incident at the Olympic Games brings their partnership to a sudden end.

As the ten-year anniversary of their final skate approaches, an unauthorized documentary reignites the public obsession with Shaw and Rocha, claiming to uncover the “real story” through interviews with their closest friends and fiercest rivals. Kat wants nothing to do with the documentary, but she can’t stand the thought of someone else defining her legacy. So, after a decade of silence, she’s telling her story: from the childhood tragedies that created her all-consuming bond with Heath to the clash of desires that tore them apart. Sensational rumors have haunted their every step for years, but the truth may be even more shocking than the headlines.

My Thoughts

I went into this book not knowing what it was about and to my surprise I really enjoyed it. Heath Rocha and Katarina Shaw were olympic ice skaters, theirs was a story of tragedy and triumph both on and off the ice.

This pair began skating together as children, Heath an orphan found a kindred spirit in Katarina who upon her parents' death also faced immense challenges living with a drug addicted brother. Kat had a dream to win the gold medal, this dream cost her more than she would have realised.

What was interesting about this book was in spite of everything that Katarina and Heath went through in their lives that bond was never broken. The author really did a good job writing this story because I really became connected to the characters.

This was a decent read. A bit of a long book though but very fast paced.

Book Review : The Faculty Lounge by Jennifer Mathieu

 

By the acclaimed author of Moxie, a funny, bighearted adult debut that is at once an ode to educators, a timely glimpse at today’s pressing school issues, and a tender character study, following a sprawling cast of teachers, administrators, and staff at a Texas high school

With its ensemble of warm and unforgettable characters, The Faculty Lounge shows readers a different side of school life. It all starts when an elderly substitute teacher at Baldwin High School is found dead in the faculty lounge. After a bit of a stir, life quickly returns to normal—it’s not like it’s the worst (or even most interesting) thing that has happened within the building’s walls. But when, a week later, the spontaneous scattering of his ashes on the school grounds catches the attention of some busybody parents, it sets in motion a year that can only be described as wild, bizarre, tragic, mundane, beautiful, and humorous all at once.

In the midst of the ensuing hysteria and threats of disciplinary action, the novel peeks into the lives of the implicated adults who, it turns out, actually have first names and continue to exist when the school day is done. We a former punk band front man, now a middle-aged principal who must battle it out with the schoolboard to keep his job; a no-nonsense school nurse willing to break the rules, despite the close watch on their campus, when a student arrives at her office with a dilemma; and a disgruntled English instructor who finds himself embroiled in even more controversy when he misfires a snarky email. Oh, and there’s also a teacher make-out session in a supply closet during a lockdown.

As these people continue to manage the messiness of this school year, there is the looming threat of what will become of their beloved Baldwin High. Ultimately, at the heart of this unconventional workplace novel is a story of the power of human connection and of the joy of finding purpose in what it is we do every day.

My Thoughts

I enjoyed this book a lot perhaps because I could relate to it in many ways.

Bob Lehrer was an eighty something year old retired high school English teacher from Baldwin High School  who upon returning as a substitute teacher, was found dead in the Faculty lounge. Bob had a request though, that his ashes be spread on the school compound. The events surrounding this strange request and the death pf a teacher became the main idea of this book.

Each chapter spoke about key members of staff from the principal and assistant principal, the new teacher to the custodian and school nurse. Each story was well written and spoke to these members of staff as human beings with highs, lows and fears. I love how this book gave a voice to a persons who work in education and the fact that many lives go unseen by even our coworkers

Because I could relate to many things in this story it was an easy read for me. I recommend this novel especially for those in the field of education. This was another great find on Libby.

Book Review : Scarlet Birthright What They Left Behind by Scarlet Ibis James

Joromi Enoch has spent his life trying to become the man his father would be proud of—responsible, dependable, a provider. But one summer fling on the vibrant island of Trinidad changes everything when his lover becomes pregnant. As Joromi builds a new life in America with a different woman who becomes his wife, he leaves behind not just Trinidad but also a daughter named Trisha, born into a legacy of absence and longing.

Across the waters that separate them, young Trisha grows up in the shadow of her father's departure. Her heart carries the weight of abandonment as she constructs fantasies of the man who gave her life but not his presence. Her journey from childhood to womanhood becomes a quest for something every child deserves—a father's love and acknowledgment. Meanwhile, Joromi builds the respectable life he always thought he wanted, but the ghost of his decisions haunts the margins of his achievements.

"Scarlet Birthright" is a powerful exploration of family bonds that transcend borders and conventional definitions. As father and daughter navigate their complicated connection, both must confront uncomfortable truths: Can Joromi honor his father's legacy while acknowledging the child he left behind? Can Trisha find wholeness without the validation she seeks? This emotional narrative challenges readers to examine the true meaning of responsibility, the price of respectability, and whether it's ever too late to reclaim what was abandoned.

My Thoughts

This novella was very well written. It told a story that was both sad and hopeful at the same time. In this book we meet 19 year old Joromi, a DJ from Trinidad was just carefree with life. Much different to what his parents envisioned for him. He met a young woman at  a fete one night that matched his energy and though brief, their love was strong. Joromi though felt as if he had to end the relationship for someone more stable, like Margaret who had big dreams of marriage and America.

When his first love turned up pregnant. Joromi still chose the easier route and left for America, hoping he could help everyone. But what he left behind was an unborn Trisha, who came into this world eventually longing for a connection with her father who now lived in the US. Joromi. not wanting to leave his life was left to choose between his daughter in Trinidad and his life in the States. I was cheering for Trisha all the wat to the end.

A short book that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster with a peaceful ending. I liked it. 

Book Review: The Housemaid Is Watching (The Housemaid #3) by Freida Mc Fadden

 

“You must be our new neighbors!” Mrs. Lowell gushes and waves across the picket fence. I clutch my daughter’s hand and smile back: but the second Mrs. Lowell sees my husband a strange expression crosses her face. In that moment I make a promise. We finally have a family home. My past is far, far behind us. And I’ll do anything to keep it that way…

I used to clean other people’s houses—now, I can’t believe this home is actually mine. The charming kitchen, the quiet cul-de-sac, the huge yard where my kids can play. My husband and I saved for years to give our children the life they deserve.

Even though I’m wary of our new neighbor Mrs. Lowell, when she invites us over for dinner it’s our chance to make friends. Her maid opens the door wearing a white apron, her hair in a tight bun. I know exactly what it’s like to be in her shoes. But her cold stare gives me chills…

The Lowells’ maid isn’t the only strange thing on our street. I’m sure I see a shadowy figure watching us. My husband leaves the house late at night. And when I meet a woman who lives across the way, her words chill me to the bone: Be careful of your neighbors.

Did I make a terrible mistake moving my family here?

I thought I’d left my darkest secrets behind. But could this quiet suburban street be the most dangerous place of all?

My Thoughts

I finally finished the Housemaid Series. It was nice reading about Millie and Enzo again. In this book, Millie is now married to Enzo and has two kids Ada and Nico. While she is now settled with a great family and a brand new dream home, trouble seems to follow Millie wherever she goes. The new neighbours the Lowells and Janice seem to harbour secrets among other things. When Mr. Lowell is found dead by Millie with his throat slit, it sets off a series of events that are mind-blowing with the turn of very page.

With shocking twists as usual, The Housemaid is Watching is a great end to a well told thriller series.

Book Review: Sherell Bernard

 

WHERE CORBEAUX FLY is a collection of ten short stories that are comical as they are tragic. Set on the Caribbean island of Trinidad during the 1960s, the overall theme of death weaves its ominous presence through each story. Though, characters such as Son-Son, Trevor, Boyzie, Anim and Teeths, bring a humourous touch and a bit of laughter amidst the darkness that hovers.

Each story introduces characters that will feel familiar— reminiscent of a longtime neighbour, tanty or friend; each place, a reminder of the ole time days. The feeling of nostalgia can be felt throughout, as readers will journey to Matura, San Rafael, and Ranch Quemado—to name a few, visiting villages, people, and a way of life, that still live on in memory.

My Thoughts 

When I saw that this book was free on Amazon I immediately jumped at it because let's face it when do you ever get a free Caribbean Novella on kindle. This book was a novella of short stories set in Trinidad. These stories however, were primarily about death and dying but let me tell you it was told in such an entertaining way that I was laughing a lot at some parts.

I really liked how the author weaved in the cultural elements by mentioning some of the local customs and superstitions surrounding death and dying. Every time I read a Trinidadian book I always look forward to authenticity and Where Corbeux Fly had it. My favourite stories were The Day Son Son Dies, The Funeral Director and Supermarket Heist.

I highly recommend this one and will be looking for other books by the author. Well Done!!1

Book Review: The Perfect Ruin By Shanora Williams

 

A thrilling new novel of lies, deception, and revenge from the bestselling author, perfect for fans of B.A. Paris and Joshilyn Jackson! The glamour of Miami has a dark side in this twisting story where nothing is what it seems, as one wronged woman seeks to destroy the seemingly perfect life of one of the city’s most revered socialites.

Book Riot Best Summer 2021 Thrillers
Biblio Lifestyle Most Anticipated Summer 2021 Thrillers, Mysteries, And Suspense Novels
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From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Shanora Williams comes a tale of revenge served ice cold—and a warning to be careful what you scheme for . . .

A brutal tragedy ended Ivy Hill’s happy family and childhood. Now in her twenties and severely troubled, she barely has a life—or much to live for. Until the day she discovers the name of the woman who destroyed her world: Lola Maxwell—the mega-wealthy socialite with a heart, Miami’s beloved “first lady” of charity. Accomplished, gorgeous, and oh-so-caring, Lola has the best of everything—and doesn’t deserve any of it. So it’s only right that Ivy take it all away . . .

Little by little, Ivy infiltrates Lola’s elite circle, becomes her new best friend—and plays Lola’s envious acquaintances and hangers-on against her. But seducing Lola’s handsome, devoted surgeon husband turns into a passionate dream Ivy suddenly can’t control. And soon, an insidious someone will twist Ivy’s revenge into a nightmare of deception, secrets, and betrayal that Ivy may not wake up from . . .

My Thoughts 

Wow this book ruined me!!! In a good way of course. This was straight up good writing t by Shanora Williams.

In this book we meet Ivy Hill, talking to her therapist Marriott who, reveals in their session something that Ivy had wanted for years, a name....Lola Maxwell (the woman who destroyed her life). With Ivy's  obsessive behaviour, this revelation set off a series of events.

Lola Maxwell has everything, a wonderful husband Corey, a beautiful home and money to burn. In seeking revenge, Ivy infiltrates Lola's life and quickly befriends her . But is Ivy the enemy or the victim?? You really need to get to the end... You will be shook.

Full of twists and epic turns, this book had me on edge. I highly recommend this.

Book Review: Next of Kin by Kia Abdullah

 

About:

ON AN ORDINARY WORKING DAY…

Leila Syed receives a call that cleaves her life in two. Her brother-in-law’s voice is filled with panic. He’s at his son’s nursery to pick up Max. But he isn’t there.

YOUR WORST NIGHTMARE…

Leila was supposed to drop Max off that morning. But she forgot.

Racing to the carpark, she grasps the horror of what she has done. Max has been locked in her car for three hours on the hottest day of the year.

IS ABOUT TO COME TRUE…

But she’s too late.

What follows is an explosive, high-profile trial, that will tear the family apart. But as the case progresses it becomes clear there’s more to this incident than meets the eye…

A gripping, brave and tense courtroom drama, Next of Kin will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final, heart-stopping page.

My Thoughts

Amazing legal drama....

In Next of Kin we meet Leila Syed, a successful businesswoman who seemed to have it all. Except children. She and her husband Will had been trying unsuccessfully for years ad that put a strain on her marriage, Meanwhile, her younger sister had a beautiful three year old named Max who Leila loved as her own.

One morning after being asked to drop off Max to nursery, a quick stop at the office turned Leila's world upside down as she forgot Max in her car. He died, and now Leila is facing serious prison time. Was it an accident? Or murder? This book takes us on a wild ride, where the secrets when revealed would make your jaw drop.

I am so glad this came available on Libby for me to be able to finish it. I plan to look for more books by this author.