tessa_talks_books's reviews
1150 reviews

If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay is a thrilling rollercoaster that weaves a complex narrative. It follows the story of Ali, who mysteriously vanishes after her boyfriend Ryan was pulled from her car, only to have that car discovered in a local lake five years later. The narrative unfolds through three distinct plotlines, each contributing to the gripping climax of the story.

The mob plotline, a glimpse into a world driven by revenge, struck a deep emotional chord with me. It delves into the heart-wrenching aftermath of a middle school bullying incident, a tragedy that resonated deeply with me as a parent. It’s a poignant part of the story that I knew would lead to anything but a devastating outcome.

I also loved the pacing. I flew through this story just having to know how the plotlines were connected and what was going to happen next. I figured out some twists, while others caused my jaw to drop in surprise. I felt like the ending was an interesting, though not surprising, choice. And overall I enjoyed this newest Alex Finlay novel. They never disappoint!

Everything We Never Said by Sloan Harlow stands out from other YA stories with its unique blend of suspense, romance, and impactful topics. The story revolves around Ella, who is grappling with the death of her best friend, Haley, and her growing romantic feelings for Sawyer, Haley's boyfriend. As Ella delves deeper into the mystery of that fateful night and uncovers more of Hayley's secrets, the suspense escalates to a thrilling climax that left me breathless.

The emotional depth of Everything We Never Said is what truly resonated with me. It's not just a fast-paced suspenseful romance, but a poignant exploration of domestic abuse and anger management issues among teens. The author's portrayal, though heightened for dramatic effect, is still authentic enough to be both enlightening and impactful.

Yet, as always, I loved the fast pace and the building suspense! The story holds a few twists and turns that left my jaw on the floor, and my hat is off to the author for that last big twist. I thought I had it all figured out, but I was mistaken if I thought that was the end of the story. My jaw is still lingering on the floor.

This book is perfect if you love YA Romantic Suspense that will shock you and impact you far beyond the story.

Christa Comes Out of Her Shell by Abbi Waxman took me to the small island of Violetta, a world away from Christa Liddle's highly dysfunctional family in California. The story unfolds as Christa's father, presumed dead for 25 years, returns, and Christa must leave her island and join her family as they struggle to process what's happened. 

I wasn't prepared for such a delightful read filled with amusing situations. As I delved into the life of Christa, a researcher of bubble raft snails in the Indian Ocean who is ironically afraid of sharks, the stage is set for a story brimming with wit and humor. The over-the-top narrative kept me thoroughly entertained.

What truly intrigued me in the story was the exploration of the intricate family relationships. The journey of self-discovery that Christa embarks on, and her evolving understanding of her sisters, mother, and 'not-dead' father, kept me engrossed and turning the pages.

Christa is a delightful character with her quick wit and sarcastic observations about the people around her. Her narration of the story was a highlight for me, as I found her perspective and humor to be incredibly enjoyable and fast-paced.

Christa Comes Out of Her Shell is the perfect read if you're looking for a fun story full of complex family themes.

My Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth is a fast-paced domestic thriller that shines the spotlight on foster care worldwide. Even though the story is set in Melbourne, Australia, and a small village a few hours away, the issues illuminated in this story impact children everywhere, including the United States. As someone who has been involved in foster care advocacy in my role as a mental health counselor, I find this book resonated deeply with me. 

When bones are discovered under the house where Jessica, Alicia, and Norah grew up while being fostered, everyone who has ever lived in the home is brought together and questioned. As the timeline switches back and forth, the case is concluded; I was left with such a significant chill down my spine that I had trouble sleeping.

Usually, I have a hard time with a story focused on the mistreatment of children, but the way this story is written - starting in the present and revealing the past in small, tantalizing glimpses - and the nature of the mistreatment (more emotional and not physical) - I was not only able to read the story but I was instantly drawn in and fully invested in it before I knew it. The narrative structure, with its alternating timelines, added to the suspense and kept me turning the pages. It was only towards the end that I started getting fatigued by the amount of abuse, but by then, it was almost over.

One of the most compelling aspects of My Darling Girls was the resilient journey of the foster sisters. Despite their diverse paths and ongoing struggles, their unbreakable bond as sisters shines through. This exploration of their family dynamics, even after they've aged out of the system and become independent adults, kept me deeply engrossed in their stories, evoking both admiration and empathy.

The conclusion of My Darling Girls was brilliant. To say that it sent chills down my spine would be an understatement-it was a fully immersive and satisfyingly creepy experience. The perfect ending to a thrilling journey that will leave readers eager for more.

Murder in Rose Hill by Victoria Thompson, the 27th installment in the Gaslight Mystery series, stands out with its unique charm. Even if you're new to the series, you'll find it captivating as a stand-alone read. And if you weren't already a fan, prepare to add the previous 26 books to your TBR list, as this one will surely ignite your love for the series.

The characters in Murder in Rose Hill are not just well-developed, they are relatable and endearing. Sarah, in particular, is a character you can't help but root for. Her husband, Frank, is a fascinating figure, ahead of his time. The supporting cast, each with their unique charm, perfectly complements Sarah and Frank, making their journey all the more engaging.

The historical elements in Murder in Rose Hill are not mere background details, but integral parts of the story. The turn-of-the-century setting, with its detailed depiction of home life and the impact of news events, offers a captivating window into the past. This meticulous attention to historical detail not only enriches the narrative but also transported me to that time and place, enhancing my reading experience.

The mystery in Murder in Rose Hill unfolds early in the story, a delightful surprise. It takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride of twists, turns, and revelations, leading to an ending that is impossible to predict. The strategic placement of red herrings keeps the suspense high, and the pacing is just right, ensuring the story never drags, but instead, kept me guessing and glued to the pages.

Murder in Rose Hill is an engaging historical mystery full of everything I love in the genre!

Funny Story by Emily Henry is not just a funny story - it's a tale many of us can relate to. It's about how Daphne and Miles, two seemingly different people, find their way into each other's lives. This sad, funny, and completely relatable journey includes elements like fake dating, opposites attracting, and small-town life. There's so much to love about this story, but what I loved the most was how much I could see myself in it.

I loved the setting, both the bookish aspect and the watery beauty of the lakeside town. The library and the beach are two spots that make me happy. The story made Waning Bay, Michigan, so appealing and invested me not only in the story but also in the setting. The small-town charm, the close-knit community, and the picturesque lakeside views all contributed to the story's appeal. I found it funny that though I hated growing up in a small town, a story set in a small town warms my heart.

The romance in Funny Story is a breath of fresh air in the genre. It doesn't rush, but unfolds gradually, just like a real relationship. The dynamic between Miles and Daphne is a perfect blend of challenge and growth, creating a unique and compelling love story that I couldn't help but be invested in.

Lastly, I was deeply moved by the authentic portrayal of the challenges of making friends as an adult. It was a theme that was not only well-developed and represented, but also completely warmed my heart, endearing me to many of the side characters.

Funny Story is more than just a funny story. It's poignant, relatable, heartwarming, and the perfect read for a spring day.

Mark Lawrence's Library Trilogy, books 1 and 2 (The Book That Wouldn't Burn and The Book That Broke The World), is a contemplative fantasy story about a library and the nature of knowledge. It reminds me of Phillip Pullman's His Dark Materials series in that I wanted to read it slowly and take time to sit in the story so I could begin to see the layers buried under the words and understand what they wanted to say to me, the reader.

While I haven't fully unraveled all the intricate layers, allusions, and connections, I can sense their presence, which only fuels my eagerness to uncover the truths they hold. I know that the conclusion will bring even more revelations, and I can't wait to dive in.

Lawrence's world-building is exceptionally thoughtful and intelligently drawn. Every element is essential to the story and understanding what's not being directly said. His world within the world and timelines make quantum physics seem as easy as addition and subtraction. It can be challenging to grasp occasionally, but I felt more secure with my understanding as long as I stuck with it.

What sets Lawrence's character development apart is the relatability of each character, no matter their contribution to the story. Their layers are built from unique life experiences, making them all the more intriguing. Livira, the main character, is a force to be reckoned with, refusing to conform to others' expectations. She's a personal favorite, but many others, like Evar, his sister Clovis, and more, are equally captivating and relatable.

Mark Lawrence's Library Trilogy, books 1 and 2 (The Book That Wouldn't Burn and The Book That Broke The World), is a contemplative fantasy story about a library and the nature of knowledge. It reminds me of Phillip Pullman's His Dark Materials series in that I wanted to read it slowly and take time to sit in the story so I could begin to see the layers buried under the words and understand what they wanted to say to me, the reader.

While I haven't fully unraveled all the intricate layers, allusions, and connections, I can sense their presence, which only fuels my eagerness to uncover the truths they hold. I know that the conclusion will bring even more revelations, and I can't wait to dive in.

Lawrence's world-building is exceptionally thoughtful and intelligently drawn. Every element is essential to the story and understanding what's not being directly said. His world within the world and timelines make quantum physics seem as easy as addition and subtraction. It can be challenging to grasp occasionally, but I felt more secure with my understanding as long as I stuck with it.

What sets Lawrence's character development apart is the relatability of each character, no matter their contribution to the story. Their layers are built from unique life experiences, making them all the more intriguing. Livira, the main character, is a force to be reckoned with, refusing to conform to others' expectations. She's a personal favorite, but many others, like Evar, his sister Clovis, and more, are equally captivating and relatable.

I want An Enchanting Case of Spirits by Melissa Holtz to be the first of a series, and I will be there for it. The story kept me thoroughly entertained. Alyssa, a widow and a mom, embarks on a journey of self-discovery when she uncovers her paranormal ability on her fortieth birthday during a visit to a medium with her friends. This sets the stage for an engaging, cozy mystery that I couldn't put down.

The heart of the story lies in the friendships, which are not just spellbinding but also deeply emotional. The four women, each with their unique personalities and struggles, and Nick West, the next-door neighbor and a detective, form a tight-knit group that is a joy to witness. Their love and respect for each other, as well as their shared experiences, are palpable and drew me into their world.

The mystery aspect is the main plot thread, and it did remind me of the TV show Medium, but with a group of friends. I was more than okay with that. There are enough differences that I could enjoy it in its own right. Still, I also loved the aspects that were the most similar. The ghosts are the key to figuring out the mystery of her husband's death, and it was all purely entertaining and held me exquisitely enthralled.

If you're in the mood for a book that will whisk you away into a world of mystery and the supernatural, An Enchanting Case of Spirits by Melissa Holtz is a must-read. Its blend of cozy mystery and paranormal abilities is a recipe for a captivating read that will keep you turning the pages long into the night.

The Darkness Rises by Stacy Stokes tells an eerie, atmospheric tale of Whitney and her unique ability to tell when someone is in danger of dying. At the start of the book, she is plagued by nightmares of an incident from last school year that impacted the whole community. When those nightmares turn into someone seeking revenge against her, a plot that may involve anyone around her, the body count rises. Can she figure out who wants revenge before it's too late?

From the very beginning, I thought I had the mystery all figured out. With each turn of the page, my conviction grew stronger. But then, Stacy Stokes masterfully shattered my theory, leaving me utterly surprised. I couldn't help but applaud her for this unexpected twist. It's not often that a story can astonish me so profoundly, and it was a delightful surprise.

I loved the sci-fi aspect of the story with Whitney's ability, a unique power passed down from her grandmother. This ability, seeing a dark cloud over the head of someone who is going to die, allows her to prevent their deaths by changing the course of events. It adds so much dimension to the story and is written so complexly that buy-in was easy, and Whitney's character development was just sublime. The choices and decisions she has to make versus how her grandmother handled the ability create so much suspense and drama that it ramps the story to the next level.

This book is an absolute must-read for anyone who relishes a gripping paranormal thriller!