Middle Grade

Third Term At Malory Towers by Enid Blyton

Genre: Middle Grade

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

Enid Blyton delivers another delightful read with Third Term At Malory Towers! Heading back to North Tower with Darrell and the gang for their third year feels wonderfully cozy, but it’s the three new girls who really shake things up this term.

We get Zeralda, an American girl obsessed with film stars and convinced of her own acting talents; Bill (Wilhelmina), who cares about horses and practically nothing else; and Mavis, a girl with a stunning singing voice desperate for opera stardom. Blyton weaves their distinct personalities into the story effortlessly.

While a couple of character arcs hit slightly predictable notes, the term is so full of laughter, drama, and surprises that you hardly mind. It offers a great, constructive lesson in empathy, school friendship, and personal growth. Fans of the series will thoroughly enjoy this vibrant continuation!

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The Crazy Eight by Liam Spicer

   Genre:  Middle Grade

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Crazy Eight by Liam Spicer is a delightfully chaotic read that’s sure to entertain younger readers and families alike. Living in a house with leaning walls, treacherous stairs, and an indoor chicken sounds like a total nightmare, but for Stacy, Patrick, and the rest of the crew, it’s home.

When a safety inspector threatens to condemn their beloved place, the kids team up to save it. The humor lands really well, and their ultimate determination is heartwarming. My only minor critique is that managing an ensemble of eight means a few of the kids get sidelined without much character development. However, the fast pacing and fun shenanigans easily make up for it.

Overall, it’s a charming story about family, team spirit, and fighting for where you belong!

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The Polka Dot Shop by Laurel Remington

Genre: Middle Grade

Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

If you’re looking for a super sweet, feel-good read, The Polka Dot Shop by Laurel Remington is definitely worth checking out! The story follows Andy, a relatable girl who dreads her school’s new no-uniform policy because her mom owns a quirky, struggling vintage boutique. Naturally, Andy just wants to blend in.

Things take a fun turn when she discovers a bag of designer goodies in the shop, sparking a journey of style and self-discovery. While the plot follows a pretty predictable middle-grade formula, Remington’s warm writing style and the charming mother-daughter dynamic totally make up for it. It’s got a great message about embracing your individuality instead of trying to fit in.

Overall, it’s a delightful, quick read for younger readers or anyone who loves a cosy fashion makeover story. 4 out of 5 stars!

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Five Go To Finniston Farm

Genre: Middle Grade

                                      Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Enid Blyton delivers another cosy, nostalgic adventure with Five Go To Finniston Farm. This time, Julian, Dick, Anne, George, and Timmy head to a charming farm with a fascinating mystery: an ancient, ruined castle whose hidden dungeons have been lost to time. The story kicks into high gear when the gang realizes they aren't the only ones hunting for the lost vaults and whatever secret treasure lies within, turning their summer holiday into an exciting race against rival searchers.

It’s a delightfully fun read packed with classic Blyton tropes—mouth-watering country food, clever sleuthing, and great teamwork. While the plot follows a familiar structure that long-time fans will easily recognize, the unique farm setting and historical treasure hunt keep the narrative fresh and engaging. If you're looking for a light-hearted mystery that captures pure childhood curiosity, this entry is well worth picking up!

Crime

 Death Of An Idol by Rima Ray

         Genre: Crime, murder

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★

A Gritty Crime Murder

If you’re a fan of K-pop and gritty mysteries, Death of an Idol by Rima Ray is a must-read. The story follows Tae, a former idol-turned-PhD student, who is haunted by the "accidental" deaths of his bandmate, Mino, and his fiancée. I loved how the book bridges the gap between the glitzy world of Seoul and Tae’s quiet life in Pittsburgh. The emotional weight of Tae's grief feels authentic, and his partnership with Detective Hana adds a fantastic dynamic to the investigation.

The pacing is generally solid, though some transitions between past and present can feel a bit quick. However, the way Ray weaves these "coincidences" into a darker conspiracy kept me hooked until the end. It’s a compelling look at the pressures of fame and the search for closure. If you enjoy character-driven whodunits with an international flair, definitely give this one a go!

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Charlotte Pass by Lee Christine

Genre: Crime, murder

                                    Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★

If you're hunting for an atmospheric mystery with a cool, unique setting, Charlotte Pass by Lee Christine is totally worth picking up. Set in the chilly, isolated Snowy Mountains, the story kicks off when ski patroller Vanessa Bell discovers human bones. Detective Sergeant Pierce Ryder soon links them to Celia Delaney, who vanished back in 1964.

The snowed-in, locked-room vibe during Winterfest really amps up the suspense, especially when a second murder proves the killer is still lurking in the village. Christine brilliantly weaves decades-old secrets with modern-day danger. My only minor critique is that a few secondary characters felt a bit thin, but the vivid alpine setting and clever plot twists more than make up for it. It’s a gripping, snow-bound thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end!

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Mystery

 The Doorman's Secret by Cassie Croft

Genre: Mystery, Thriller

Rating: ★ ★ ★1/2 (3.5 stars)

The Doorman’s Secret by Cassie Croft is a fun, easy read that really delivers on the voyeuristic thrill of New York high-society drama. The story follows Frank Cahill, an observant overnight doorman who sees it all from his lobby post in an exclusive building.

Croft does a fantastic job building a cosy, immersive atmosphere, and Frank is a likable, grounded protagonist. However, some of the subplots involving the residents feel a bit rushed, leaving you wanting a bit more depth from the sprawling cast of characters. The pacing dips slightly in the middle, but the charming premise and satisfying reveals make up for it.

If you’re looking for a low-stakes, entertaining mystery to curl up with on a rainy weekend, this one is definitely worth checking out!

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Dying To Meet The Newcomer by Judith Fournie Helms

Genre: Mystery, Thriller

                                    Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★

Dying to Meet the Newcomer by Judith Fournie Helms offers a truly unconventional mystery that will get you thinking. The community is baffled by Sen Smith, an amiable newcomer whose ardent club-forming coincides with increasing afflictions among his neighbours. This leads to a petition to cast him out. But is Sen the cause of their woes, or merely an unfortunate new presence?

The book excels at creating an intriguing ambiguity. It isn't a typical 'whodunit,' but rather invites you to ponder whether the strange turn of events is causative, coincidental, or perhaps something else entirely. While the narrative cleverly resists a definitive answer – which might feel less satisfying for readers expecting a clear resolution – this open-endedness is precisely what makes it thought-provoking. If you're looking for a mystery that challenges assumptions and explores the unsettling power of community perception rather than delivering a neat solution, this is a compelling and unique read.

Historical Fiction

 The Valley of Horses by Jean M. Auel

                   Genre: Historical Fiction, Adventure

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5)

Ayla’s exile feels like a cold‑weather road‑trip for the soul, and Auel makes that journey oddly comforting.

Stripped of clan support, she wanders the frozen steppes, and the valley she discovers becomes a surprisingly warm sanctuary for a rag‑tag family of “outsiders”: a feisty filly, a wounded lion cub, and, eventually, the curious brothers Jondalar and his sibling. Auel’s casual narration lets the reader breathe with Ayla—her clumsy first attempts at horse‑training, the tender bond she builds with a lion, and the awkward, hopeful moments when she finally meets other Cro‑Magnons.

The pacing is steady, not rushed, and the world‑building feels both expansive and intimate. While the plot leans on familiar “found‑family” tropes, the vivid natural detail and Ayla’s resilient optimism make the book a rewarding, gently adventurous read.

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The  Explorers (The Australians #4) by William Stuart Long

Genre: Historical Fiction, History

                           Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5)

If you’re into sweeping historical sagas, The Explorers by William Stuart Long is a pretty gripping journey into the heart of early Australia. The story follows Jessica Maclaine as she navigates the rough, untamed world of New South Wales, and the atmosphere is top-notch. Long does a great job capturing that gritty "renegade nation" vibe, showing how a land built by convicts and rogues began to find its identity.

The pacing can feel a bit slow in spots, and some of the romantic drama is slightly over-the-top, but the historical detail really makes up for it. I especially liked how the narrative connects back to the legacy of Jenny Taggart, giving the story a sense of grand destiny. It’s a solid, spirited read for anyone who enjoys early frontier history mixed with a bit of scandal and intrigue. Definitely worth a look!

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The East End Murders by Tessa Harris

Genre: Historical Fiction, Murder

Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★

If you’re looking for a gripping historical mystery, The East End Murders by Tessa Harris is a fantastic pick. Set in the tense, fog-drenched streets of 1889 London, the story picks up just as the city starts to recover from the Ripper’s shadow—only for a new, chilling murder to spark fresh panic.

I really enjoyed the dynamic between the sharp-witted flower seller, Constance Piper, and the steadfast Detective Hawkins. Their investigation evolves into a much larger, high-stakes conspiracy that feels far more dangerous than your average "whodunit." Harris does a brilliant job of blending atmospheric Victorian grit with a fast-paced political thriller. While it’s a re-release of A Deadly Deception, it’s definitely worth a read if you haven’t delved into this series yet. It’s dark, immersive, and perfect for anyone who loves a mystery rooted in real historical tension. Highly recommended!

Young Adult

 Lexie Diamond And The Great Virtual Romance by Victoria Foyt

      Genre: Young Adult

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★

Lexie Diamond and the Great Virtual Romance by Victoria Foyt is a wild, imaginative ride that blends supernatural intrigue with timely social commentary. I really enjoyed the unique premise of the Virtual Believers Club; the idea of helping Lost Souls via an otherworldly portal feels fresh and offers a lot of creative potential.

The storyline moves quickly, especially when Lexie’s personal desires collide with the global mission to save the planet. While the shift toward the Enneagram as a plot device felt a bit sudden, it added an interesting layer of self-discovery to the climax. At times, the pacing felt a little frantic, and I would have loved more quiet moments to explore the mechanics of her power. Overall, it’s an entertaining, ambitious read that balances high-stakes fantasy with a heartfelt search for connection. Definitely worth checking out if you enjoy genre-bending YA!

Short Stories

The Light That Devours The Sky by Guilherme Lemos

Genre: Short Stories, Horror

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

Chilling and Inescapable

If you're a fan of cosmic and body horror, The Light That Devours The Sky by Guilherme Lemos is definitely worth checking out. The core premise—that horror isn't a curse, but an inescapable law of nature—is downright chilling.

I really enjoyed how the book tells its story in reverse, peeling back the layers of the Maxwell Universe from a cursed house in 2013 back to an ancient tragedy in 1533. The imagery of an iron-rich comet twisting biology, soil, and human memory is super unsettling. The 1893 story set in the Brazilian coffee fields especially gave me the creeps!

If I had one minor nit pick, the oppressive atmosphere can feel a bit relentless, but it completely fits the bleak, eerie vibe Lemos builds. Overall, it’s a smart, deeply atmospheric read for horror fans looking for something refreshingly unique.

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Wormholes and Other Unlikely Places by Carl Alves

Genre: Short Stories, Science Fiction

                        Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★

If you’re looking for a read that keeps you on your toes, Wormholes and Other Unlikely Places by Carl Alves is a fantastic pick. This genre-bending collection is a wild ride that jumps from the high altitudes of ancient Tibet to the neon grit of dystopian game shows. Alves doesn’t just stick to standard sci-fi tropes; he weaves in mythological gods and dives deep into cosmic philosophy.

The storytelling is seamless, even when shifting between vastly different settings. I loved how the book explores theoretical spacetime while keeping the emotional elements grounded. While some stories feel like they could be expanded into full-length novels, the variety ensures there’s never a dull moment. It’s a great choice for readers who enjoy high-concept ideas served with a side of adventure. If you want fiction that challenges your perspective on reality, definitely give this a look.

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Faces In The Flames by N. T. McQueen

Genre: Short Stories

                                       Rating: ★★★★1/2 (4.5 stars)

Faces in the Flames by N.T. McQueen is a beautifully heavy collection of interconnected stories that captures the grit and grace of small-town life. 

I really appreciated how the characters’ lives overlap; it makes the community feel authentic and lived-in. McQueen has a sharp eye for the burdens we inherit and the quiet ways violence shapes us. 

While some of the tales are heart-wrenching, they are deeply human. If you enjoy character-driven fiction that explores the long shadows of the past, this is a must-read. It’s a compelling, thoughtful debut that lingers long after you finish.

Science, History

 Return To The Stars by Erich Von Daniken

Genre: Science, History

                                    Rating: ★★★★1/2 (4.5 stars)

If you enjoyed Chariots of the Gods?, you’ll definitely want to pick up Return to the Stars. 

Erich von Däniken continues his deep dive into the mysteries of our past, uncovering historical gaps that mainstream history often ignores. 

While his theories

remain controversial, his perspective is undeniably thought-provoking and keeps you questioning everything you though you knew about ancient civilizations. 

It’s a fun, engaging read that sparks great conversations. Even if you don’t accept every conclusion, the book is a fascinating journey that challenges your imagination from start to finish. Highly recommended!

Horror

 The Survivor by James Herbert

                                        Genre: Horror, Fiction

                                        Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

James Herbert’s Survivor is a wild, spooky ride that starts with an absolute bang. Pilot David Keller walking away completely unscathed from a horrific plane crash that claims over 300 lives immediately hooks you.

As David tries to rebuild his life in the quiet town of Eton, things quickly take a dark turn. Herbert does a fantastic job building an eerie atmosphere, weaving horrific visions and supernatural happenings into the local community and tying it all to a creepy old graveyard.

While the pacing dips a bit in the middle as it leans heavily into the psychological toll on the townsfolk, the payoff is worth it. It’s not quite his scariest work, but Herbert delivers a solid, suspenseful ghost story that keeps you turning pages. If you love classic British horror with a supernatural mystery, it’s definitely worth a read!

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The Rats by James Herbert

Genre: Horror

                               Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

If you’re looking for a gnarly, old-school horror read, James Herbert’s The Rats definitely delivers the goods. The premise is brilliantly simple: after millions of years of humans staying on top, the power dynamic shifts, and ordinary rats mutate into man-eating monsters terrorizing London.

Herbert’s writing is fast-paced, gritty, and relentlessly bleak, perfectly capturing that grimy 1970s British horror vibe. It doesn't hold back on the gore, so squeamish readers beware! While some of the character development feels a bit thin and typical of creature-features from that era, the sheer suspense and relentless pacing make up for it.

It’s definitely a B-movie in book form—undemanding, wildly exaggerated, and a whole lot of fun if you love creature features. Grab a snack, turn off the lights, and try not to listen too closely to the scratching in your walls!

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Bellamy by Darcy Coates

Genre: Horror

                               Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

If you’re a fan of atmospheric, slow-burn horror, Darcy Coates’s Bellamy is definitely worth adding to your shelf. The premise is haunting: Leanne returns to the site of her brother’s childhood tragedy—an abandoned asylum—hoping for closure, only to realize the building hasn't let go of its past.

Coates excels at building genuine dread, and the crumbling setting feels like a character all on its own. While the pacing is a bit deliberate in the middle, the payoff is genuinely creepy. I would have loved a little more backstory on the asylum’s history to heighten the stakes, but the tension kept me turning pages late into the night. It’s a solid, unsettling read that perfectly captures the feeling of being watched in a place you’re meant to be alone. If you want a spooky, immersive ghost story, this is a great pick.

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The Fog by James Herbert

 

Genre: Horror

                                            Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

Just finished James Herbert's The Fog, and wow, what a premise! The idea of a peaceful Wiltshire village suddenly hit by a completely inexplicable disaster, with a yawning, bottomless crack spewing out this truly unique, terrifying fog, is super compelling. Herbert definitely dials up the misery and horror, painting a vivid picture of chaos and societal breakdown that's hard to shake.

My main constructive thought is around that without reason or explanation part. While it adds to the initial dread and mystery, I sometimes found myself craving a little more insight into the fog's origins or nature. It's brilliantly atmospheric and grotesque, but a touch more world-building around the phenomenon itself might have elevated it further. Still, it's a chilling, relentless ride that sticks with you, a classic Herbert horror for sure.

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Thriller

Dark Alley To Power by Travis Casey

                                         Genre: Thriller, Fiction

                                         Rating: ★ ★★ ★

This book is a gritty, fast-paced dive into the murky depths of Southern politics, and honestly, it’s a wild ride. Yvette Tyson is the kind of fierce, take-no-prisoners underdog you can’t help but root for, even when she’s playing dirty. Pairing her up with Cory Logan, a retired boxing icon turned reluctant kingmaker, gives the story an awesome dynamic.

That said, the plot gets a little convoluted once the blackmail and backroom deals start stacking up. A few subplots feel rushed, and I would have loved a bit more breathing room to let the tension really simmer. Still, if you like high-stakes thrillers where nobody’s hands are clean, this is definitely worth picking up. It keeps you guessing until the very end!

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No Halo Required by Travis Casey

Genre: Thriller, fiction

Rating:  ★ ★★ ★

No Halo Required by Travis Casey is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that dives deep into the dark side of ambition and public image. Isaiah Hightower seems like a saintly high school principal, but his wife, Yvette, is the real driving force, obsessively polishing his halo for a prestigious award. When a tragedy pulls them back to Savannah, Isaiah’s past starts catching up with him, and the tension between the couple becomes palpable.

Casey does a fantastic job building suspense, especially with the shifting power dynamics between Isaiah and Yvette. The pacing is tight, though some of the secondary characters could use a bit more development to truly flesh out Savannah's gritty backdrop. Still, the psychological cat-and-mouse game between husband and wife keeps you hooked until the very end. It's a highly recommended read for anyone who enjoys tense, character-driven domestic dramas!

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Odd Thomas by Dean Koontz

Genre: Thriller, supernatural

                               Rating:  ★ ★ ★ ★1/2 (4.5 stars)

If you’re looking for a supernatural thriller with a heart of gold, Dean Koontz’s Odd Thomas is an absolute must-read. The story follows a humble short-order cook in a quiet desert town who possesses the eerie, reluctant ability to see the dead. While the premise sounds dark, the voice of the protagonist is incredibly charming, witty, and grounded.

Koontz does a fantastic job of balancing the high-stakes tension of an impending catastrophe with deeply human moments, especially the beautiful connection between Odd and his soul mate, Stormy. While the plot moves at a breakneck pace toward the end, the character development makes every twist feel earned. It’s a compelling, bittersweet fable that manages to be both suspenseful and profoundly hopeful. Whether you’re a long-time Koontz fan or a newcomer, this book is a captivating ride that stays with you long after the final page.

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Contemporary, Chicklit

 Flying The Nest by Rachael Johns

Genre: Contemporary, Chick-lit. Romance

Rating: ★★★★1/2 (4.5 stars)

I really enjoyed Flying the Nest by Rachael Johns. 

It’s a heartfelt, relatable look at how life shifts when a marriage hits a wall—literally, in the case of "nest parenting." 

Ashling is a character you can’t help but root for, and the contrast between her chaotic home life and the peaceful, restorative vibe of Ragged Point makes for a great page-turner. 

While I occasionally found the transitions between her two lives a bit repetitive, the beautiful setting and emotional growth kept me hooked. It’s a perfect, cosy read for anyone navigating life’s unexpected changes.

Statures With No Limitations by Judith Fournie Helm

Genre: Contemporary, women's fiction

                      Rating: ★★★★

Statures of No Limitations by Judith Fournie Helm is a really thought-provoking read that tackles workplace discrimination in a unique way. We follow Heather as she brings together two incredibly talented female attorneys – one a dwarf, the other morbidly obese – who've been hidden away because of their looks.

Embarking on their own law firm, their journey is a tsunami of failures, which really highlights the harsh realities of "bodyism" they face. What truly stands out is the formidable bond of friendship that fuels their fight and provides much-needed humour amidst their struggles. While the initial plan seems a bit far-fetched, the subsequent professional obstacles feel very authentic. It’s a powerful story about resilience, celebrating unique strengths, and the vital support of true connection. It definitely makes you reflect on societal biases.

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Non Fiction

 Marketing For Entrepreneurs by Beverly Cornell

Genre: Non Fiction

Rating: ★★★★1/2 (4.5)

I just finished Marketing for Entrepreneurs by Beverly Cornell, and it truly feels like having an experienced mentor by your side. With her 25 years of expertise, Cornell expertly blends core concepts with thought-provoking questions. I loved the manual format—each chapter ends with actionable worksheets that force you to actually apply what you’ve learned. While seasoned pros might find the basics familiar, her fresh take on storytelling makes this a worthwhile read.

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From Monday I'll Stop by Mark Ryder

Genre: Non fiction, self help

                                Rating: ★★★★

Mark Ryder’s From Monday I’ll Stop is a deeply relatable and moving read for anyone who has ever felt like they’re just holding it together. We follow Alice, who looks perfect on the outside but is drowning in anxiety and alcohol.

What makes this book stand out is that it isn't a typical rock bottom story; it focuses on the quiet exhaustion of being the person everyone relies on while neglecting yourself. I loved the introduction of the 97-year-old mentor and the teacher—they provide such grounded, soulful guidance. It really makes you realize that the harsh inner critic isn't who you actually are.

The shift from the I’ll start Monday loop to a more compassionate now is incredibly empowering. If you’ve ever felt like you’re quietly breaking while appearing fine, this book offers a beautiful path toward real change. Highly recommended!

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