top of page
Blog


Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn
Book review of Sharp Objects written by Gillian Flynn
Ruth May
Aug 301 min read


The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson
I listened to The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo on audiobook and, at 18 hours, it was a big commitment. It's definitely a slow burn, but once the story found its footing, I was hooked.
Ruth May
Aug 83 min read


The Deep Magic of Daily Consistency
A fantastic mentoring style book that will have you engaged from start to finish.
Ruth May
Aug 21 min read


The Murder Rule by Dervla McTiernan
This was only my second Dervla McTiernan novel, and I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. The Murder Rule is very much a slow-burn thriller, taking its time to build the story and develop the characters. While I felt there was a slight dip in the middle where the pace slowed, it more than made up for it with an exceptional final act. The twists towards the end were fantastic; clever, well-earned, and completely changed the way I looked at everything that had come before
Ruth May
Jul 251 min read


Conquering Writer's Block and Summoning Inspiration
Writer's block is something I think every writer struggles with at some point, and it's certainly something I've experienced over the years. That's why I decided to listen to the audiobook of Conquering Writer's Block and Summoning Inspiration by K.M. Weiland. Having been writing for over 30 years, I have to admit that around 90% of the advice wasn't new to me. Most of the strategies were things I'd encountered before in one form or another. But honestly, that wasn't surprisi
Ruth May
Jul 52 min read


Three Reasons for Revenge by Dervla McTiernan
I thoroughly enjoyed Three Reasons for Revenge. Dervla McTiernan has crafted an incredibly well-constructed thriller that keeps the story moving from beginning to end. The plot is intricate without ever becoming confusing, and although all the clues are there if you're paying attention, the ending still manages to deliver a genuine surprise. One of the book's greatest strengths is its subplot, which is just as compelling as the main storyline and adds real depth to the overal
Ruth May
Jun 301 min read


Forgotten by Alison Lyle
Expected Publication Day: 23 February 2026 Forgotten is one of those rare novels that tackles difficult subject matter with honesty, nuance, and a deep sense of humanity. Alison Lyle doesn’t shy away from challenging themes, yet she handles them with such authenticity that the story never feels sensationalised, just real, raw, and deeply affecting. Julia, in particular, is a standout. I found myself connecting with her almost immediately. Her struggles feel lived‑in rather th
Ruth May
Feb 101 min read


Sacred Seventh by Peter Bell
Some books entertain you. Others invite you to sit with their characters, to walk beside them through moments of quiet hope, deep uncertainty, and unexpected renewal. Sacred Seventh does exactly that. Each voice feels distinct and real, revealing how lives intersect, fracture, and mend in ways that are both ordinary and extraordinary. Set against the familiar rhythms of Brisbane, the novel gently reminds us that it’s never too late to begin again.
Ruth May
Jan 271 min read


The Nowhere Child by Christian White
Absolutely fantastic story. Highly recommend.
Ruth May
Jan 121 min read


The Lakewood Legacy
The Lakewood Legacy by E. Denise Billups is a small-town mystery that blends family secrets, past trauma, and modern technology in an ambitious attempt to unravel a decades-old tragedy. The novel opens with a striking hook, particularly a line that immediately establishes emotional stakes and moral tension, and the premise itself is intriguing. The story explores how the past continues to ripple through the present, and there are moments where the atmosphere of a tight-knit
Ruth May
Jan 102 min read


Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh
This gripping courtroom thriller blends clever misdirection with relentless pacing. The tension builds steadily before racing toward an unexpected twist that redefines everything you’ve read. Smartly plotted and rich in suspense, it’s the kind of book that keeps you guessing until the very last chapter. Readers who enjoy intricate thrillers will find this an absorbing and rewarding read.
Ruth May
Dec 28, 20251 min read


Fallen Angel Risen by Darren Crofts
Beautifully written and quietly unsettling, Fallen Angels blends evocative prose, layered symbolism, and a slow‑burn mystery. Though the shifting timelines and large cast can be disorienting, the story ultimately comes together in a rewarding way. Atmospheric, thoughtful, and intriguing — a strong start to a series I’m keen to continue.
Ruth May
Dec 26, 20252 min read


The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown
Dan Brown’s The Secret of Secrets is a richly detailed and fast-paced thriller that takes readers deep into the heart and history of Prague. Although it runs longer than expected, the novel showcases Brown’s signature blend of history, mystery, and high-stakes adventure. The vivid descriptions of the city’s architecture and culture make it an immersive read, even if they sometimes slow the pace. For fans of Robert Langdon or those who enjoy intricate historical thrillers fill
Ruth May
Nov 29, 20252 min read


Book Review: Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier
Revisiting Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier was a true pleasure. The story, characters, and Manderley itself remain unforgettable. Even after multiple reads, it captivated me like the first time. If you have not yet discovered this classic, it is a must-read.
Ruth May
Nov 18, 20252 min read


Book Review: They Will Kill You Next by Tim Kizer
They Will Kill You Next is a dialogue-driven thriller that races forward with relentless energy, offering quick, engaging exchanges and plenty of plot twists. While its fast pace makes for an easy, cinematic read, the novel’s heavy reliance on dialogue sometimes comes at the cost of depth and clarity. Despite these flaws, its suspenseful momentum and unpredictable turns will keep readers hooked until the end.
Ruth May
Oct 12, 20251 min read


Book Review - 'Not Your Child' by Lis Angus
It’s rare that I get the opportunity to read a book cover to cover in one sitting, but Not Your Child by Lis Angus captivated me from the...
Ruth May
Oct 10, 20251 min read


Book Review - 'The Lost Bookshop' by Evie Woods
Evie Woods’ The Lost Bookshop is a delightful and evocative tale that masterfully weaves romance, mystery, and hope into a story that...
Ruth May
Oct 10, 20252 min read

Subscribe for regular updates
Some of the links on this website are affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I have personal used or researched, currently use, or genuinely believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps me to continue to create content about writing, reading, and self-publishing. Thank you.
bottom of page