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AND TO ALL A GOOD BITE by David Rosenfelt

October 31, 2025

Andy Carpenter Mysteries, Book 32

From the publisher:

Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter investigates a murder that left a dog stranded in And to All a Good Bite, the latest Christmas mystery in David Rosenfelt’s bestselling series.

Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter can’t wait for Christmas. He doesn’t care much about the season, unless it’s football season. Andy’s excited to finally relax and watch the games. But when there’s a murder related to an old case in Paterson, New Jersey, Andy puts the games on pause.

Two years ago, a gas leak in an office building led to a tragic explosion that killed seven people. Jeff Wheeler was there to pick up his girlfriend and ran into the building to help. All he heard was the barking of a dog, Rufus, and was able to save him. The pup was the sole survivor and Jeff was named a hero. Initially, Rufus went to the Tara Foundation since his owner had died in the accident. But Andy met Jeff and liked him, respecting his courage and allowed him to adopt Rufus. Since then, Jeff and Rufus have formed an unbreakable bond.

The accident never sat right with Jeff. He believed that one of the building owners was responsible for the tragedy. Now that owner has been murdered and Jeff is arrested for the crime, Rufus is left with Jeff’s sister, who begs Andy to take the case. Andy remembered Jeff’s tremendous bravery and with the lingering Christmas spirit, decides to help reunite the two.

With David Rosenfelt’s signature humor and hijinks, it’s time to close this case for good and bid it a good night.

“[An] unfailingly entertaining series.”―Kirkus Reviews

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I’ve gone years between reading installments in this series, but now I’ve read two since July. This one helped pull me out of a reading slump—kudos to Rosenfelt for that. I’ve always loved his books: his distinctive voice, clever cases, and trademark blend of wit and warmth make this series such a joy to return to. His “happy pessimism,” sharp humor, memorable cast of recurring characters, and, of course, his deep love of dogs, are what keep me coming back.

Once again, Rosenfelt delivers with a witty, smartly written courtroom mystery filled with heart. In recent years, he’s started releasing an annual Christmas-themed book, which always feels a little extra special. They’re never overly holiday-centric; rather, the season serves as a subtle backdrop. This time, Andy’s wife Laurie has Christmas music playing on a loop since Halloween, much to Andy’s dismay. He tries to tune it out while focusing on what he truly loves: football season. Now semi-retired, Andy would much rather watch sports than work—until a case comes along that he can’t ignore.

Andy is, as always, the champion of the underdog. This time, that underdog is Jeff Wheeler, a man Andy met a few years earlier under tragic circumstances. Jeff had gone to pick up his girlfriend from work when the building exploded. Though he couldn’t reach her, he managed to rescue a puppy trapped in a crate near the entrance. The dog ended up at Andy’s shelter, where Jeff later adopted it. Andy’s philosophy is simple: anyone who runs into a burning building to save a dog can’t possibly be a murderer.

But now Jeff stands accused of killing his late girlfriend’s boss. The evidence is circumstantial but damning, and Andy can’t resist taking the case. He also takes in Jeff’s dog, keeping him safe among his own pack until he can clear Jeff’s name.

Proving Jeff’s innocence requires Andy and his capable team to dig deep—through ashes, lies, and a handful of suspicious characters, each with possible motives. What follows is a race against time, featuring Andy’s trademark courtroom antics, sarcastic charm, and surprising brilliance beneath the bumbling exterior. The tension builds to a sharp, satisfying climax, reminding readers why Andy Carpenter remains one of the most endearing lawyers in fiction.

This is a fast-paced, tightly woven mystery full of humor, heart, and Rosenfelt’s signature snark. His ability to keep the series fresh after thirty-two books is truly impressive. Fans will appreciate seeing all the familiar faces—Laurie, Sam, Eddie, Marcus, Edna—and, of course, Andy’s beloved dogs. New readers can jump right in without having read the earlier installments.

I also have deep admiration for Rosenfelt and his wife, who run the real-life Tara Foundation, responsible for rescuing thousands of dogs. Through his cozy mysteries, Rosenfelt continues to highlight the importance of animal adoption with warmth and compassion.

And To All A Good Bite is the perfect holiday read—or gift—for anyone who loves a smart murder mystery with a generous helping of humor and heart. And dogs.

10/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

AND TO ALL A GOOD BITE by David Rosenfelt. Minotaur Books. (October 14, 2025). ISBN: 978-1250324573. 304p.

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Spotlight Review: THE PROVING GROUND by Michael Connelly

October 21, 2025

Lincoln Lawyer, Book 8

From the publisher:

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Michael Connelly, the Lincoln Lawyer is back with a case against an AI company whose product may have been responsible for the murder of a young girl.

Following his “resurrection walk” and need for a new direction, Mickey Haller turns to public interest litigation, filing a civil lawsuit against an artificial intelligence company whose chatbot told a sixteen-year-old boy that it was okay for him to kill his ex-girlfriend for her disloyalty.

Representing the victim’s family, Mickey’s case explores the mostly unregulated and exploding AI business and the lack of training guardrails. Along the way he joins up with a journalist named Jack McEvoy, who wants to be a fly on the wall during the trial in order to write a book about it. But Mickey puts him to work going through the mountain of printed discovery materials in the case. McEvoy’s digging ultimate delivers the key witness, a whistleblower who has been too afraid to speak up. The case is fraught with danger because billions are at stake.

It is said that machines became smarter than humans on the day in 1997 that IBM’s Deep Blue defeated chess master Garry Kasparov with a gambit called “the knight’s sacrifice.” Haller will take a similar gambit in court to defeat the mega forces of the AI industry lined up against him and his clients.

“Connelly works in extensive (and never tedious) background on the perils of AI by having an investigative writer join forces with Haller. As always, it’s fun to watch Haller argue, manipulate, and wheedle his way from pre-trial through the explosive trial itself. One of the best yet from best-selling author Connelly.” – Booklist, starred review

“Bestseller Connelly crafts a riveting eighth case for attorney Mickey Haller . . . Connelly effectively dips his toe into topical waters here, touching on adolescent male loneliness and the dangers of AI without skimping on the propulsive plotting he’s known for. Newcomers and series fans alike will find this fast-paced legal procedural intensely satisfying.” – Publishers Weekly

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Few authors match the remarkable consistency of Michael Connelly. Whether he’s writing about Bosch, Haller, Ballard, or crafting a standalone, his ability to deliver two exceptional novels a year is nothing short of astonishing.

This latest book is no exception—gripping, immersive, and impossible to put down. Mickey Haller shifts from criminal defense to civil litigation, venturing into the complex realm of artificial intelligence. After years of watching him navigate criminal cases from the backseat of his Lincolns (now reduced to just one), seeing him tackle a case focused not on guilt or innocence but on corporate accountability in our tech-driven age proves surprisingly captivating.

Each of Connelly’s protagonists brings something distinct: Mickey Haller transforms courtrooms into theater with his charm and sharp wit; Harry Bosch remains the embodiment of relentless justice, while Renee Ballard, Connelly’s newest series lead, continues to push against a resistant system. In this novel, Haller channels all three—commanding the spotlight while relying on meticulous research and strategy to challenge a billion-dollar corporation with everything to lose. Watching him penetrate the corporate veil designed to bury secrets and execute high-stakes courtroom gambits perfectly captures why this character continues to resonate.

What elevates this book beyond a typical legal thriller is its relevance. The central lawsuit—exploring the role of AI in a young man’s tragic decision to kill the girl who broke his heart—doesn’t feel far-fetched but more like a headline waiting to happen. The ethical questions it raises are urgent and unsettling: when chatbots influence vulnerable users toward dangerous behavior, who bears the responsibility? This dilemma drives the narrative, even as the courtroom drama keeps the tension high.

Bringing back Jack McEvoy (from The Poet) reinforces that justice doesn’t begin and end in courtrooms—investigative journalism often exposes the truths that eventually land there. Connelly also weaves in the broader landscape of Los Angeles, with wildfires serving as a haunting metaphor for the internal and external battles his characters face, adding a layer of darkness that extends beyond legal proceedings.

Ultimately, Connelly delivers a timely legal thriller that is entertaining yet thought-provoking, deeply personal yet universally resonant. Mickey Haller may be known as the Lincoln Lawyer, but here, he becomes something greater: a champion of truth in a world where truth itself is under siege.

10/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE PROVING GROUND by Michael Connelly. Little, Brown and Company. ( October 21, 2025). ISBN: 978-0316563826. 400p.

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Spotlight Review: THE BLONDE WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD by Ally Carter

September 16, 2025

The Blonde Identity Series, Book 2

From the publisher:

A Second-Chance Adventure Rom-Com about Rival Spies, Thrilling Secrets, and a Mission of Survival

An action-packed, second-chance rom-com about two rival spies who must join forces in order to stay alive, from New York Times bestselling author Ally Carter.

Ten years ago, they joined the CIA.

Six years ago, he left the game.

Five years ago, they fell in love.

One year ago, she ran out into the cold with absolutely no intention of ever coming back.

And two minutes ago, they woke up, bloody and bruised and handcuffed together in the dark.

They don’t know where they are. They don’t know how they got there. And they have absolutely no idea who is after them or what this nameless, faceless villain wants.

The only thing that’s clear is that, after ten years of covers and chemistry, secrets and lies, these two rival spies have been sucked into their greatest mission yet, and now they’re going to have to team up to stay alive. (If they don’t kill each other first.)

“Carter’s follow-up to The Blonde Identity is a thrilling and amusing romance featuring finely drawn characters and a twisty, page-turning story. Readers will be on the edge of their seats, unable to put this book down until they discover what happens to Alex and Michael, in spydom and in love.” — Library Journal

“Bestseller Carter combines suspense, sizzle, and snark in this delightful standalone sequel to The Blonde Identity. . . With snappy dialogue, slow-burning romantic tension, and some exciting twists, this makes for an entertaining diversion.” — Publishers Weekly

https://amzn.to/4m2f90Q

I loved The Blonde Identity, so I was eager for the sequel—but unfortunately, it just didn’t recapture the magic. The biggest issue was the fragmented storytelling: short chapters of 3–5 pages that constantly jump between the present day and events from one to ten years previously. The frequent shifts in time and location made the plot hard to follow, and with so much of the book focused on backstory, the tension and stakes didn’t kick in until the final pages.

That said, the premise is instantly gripping: two rival spies—Alex Sterling and Michael “King” Kingsley III—wake up bloodied, bruised, and handcuffed together in the dark, with no memory of how they got there. Unlike the first book’s memory-loss device, this setup forces a long-overdue confrontation between characters who’ve been avoiding each other for a year, creating fresh emotional stakes.

Alex Sterling is a standout lead, written with depth and vulnerability beneath her sharp exterior. Her relationship with her sister Zoe and her guilt over past choices add emotional weight, making her journey from guarded to open-hearted feel earned. King, too, is more than a brooding archetype. His photographic memory is both a gift and a burden, and Carter thoughtfully explores how someone who remembers everything grapples with forgiveness. His purchase of a Scottish castle—and the reasons behind it—adds surprising emotional nuance.

The supporting cast, especially Zoe and the enigmatic Merritt, enriches the world without distracting from the central romance. Each character feels purposeful and real. The banter between Alex and King is sharp but never forced, advancing both plot and emotional tension. A late twist involving a double agent delivers genuine shock, with clues cleverly planted throughout. The reveal feels earned and consistent with the characters’ motivations.

Still, some plot elements stretch believability—especially the handcuff scenario, which requires a generous suspension of disbelief. Fortunately, the romantic arc holds up thanks to the characters’ well-established history. Their five-year separation introduces real obstacles that can’t be resolved with a simple heart-to-heart. Both have evolved, making their reunion feel like a new relationship built on old foundations.

The physical chemistry is palpable but never overshadows emotional growth. Intimate scenes serve the story, revealing new layers to their dynamic. While the book struggles with pacing and underdeveloped villains, it ultimately delivers smart, funny romantic suspense with characters worth investing in. Carter has built a series with real potential, and this installment—despite its flaws—feels complete and satisfying.

9/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

THE BLONDE WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD by Ally Carter. Avon. (August 5, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063386976. 336p.

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DOGGED PURSUIT by David Rosenfelt

July 18, 2025

An Andy Carpenter Mystery, Book 31

From the publisher:

In Dogged Pursuit, David Rosenfelt takes readers back to the start of this beloved series as Andy Carpenter begins his career as a defense attorney in Paterson, New Jersey.

Andy Carpenter has spent the three years since graduating law school working as a prosecutor in Paterson. But having seen how the system never looks out for the little guy, he leaves to start his own practice as a defense attorney. His office might be a little bit of a dump, but he’s excited to make a change.

Andy goes to the shelter to adopt a dog, where he meets his beloved golden retriever, Tara, for the first time and feels an immediate connection. The shelter is crowded and Tara’s been sharing space with a dog named Sunny; Andy hates to break them up and so asks to take Sunny, too, but since there’s a pending criminal case involving the owner, he’ll need to get written permission for temporary possession.

Andy discovers that Sunny’s owner, Ryan Tierney, has been arrested for the murder of his ex-boss. But he takes an immediate liking to Ryan and his clear dedication to his dog, and ends up with his first case along with the two dogs.

This prequel to the long-running and perennially popular Andy Carpenter mysteries is a gift for fans and a terrific entry-point for newcomers.
https://amzn.to/45XUS8e

While I haven’t read every book in this series, I actually started at the very beginning—when Open and Shut quite literally fell into my hands while I was working the library book drop. I was immediately hooked by David Rosenfelt’s voice, his passion for dogs, and his dedication to fighting for the little guy. He’s never let me down since. This prequel to the series was a fun and satisfying read, offering a glimpse into Andy Carpenter’s roots in both defense law and dog rescue.

Andy begins his career after law school in the prosecutor’s office, just like his father before him. But a few years in, he realizes his heart lies in defending those who can’t afford proper legal representation. So, he quits and opens a modest solo practice, renting a rundown office above a fruit market and waiting for clients to walk through the door.

His wife, the daughter of the governor and very much a product of high society, is less than thrilled with his career switch. Their relationship is crumbling, and she’s moved out. Looking for companionship, Andy heads to the local animal shelter and meets Tara—the world’s greatest Golden Retriever. She’s in a kennel with a beagle, and the two seem bonded. But when Andy inquires about adopting both, he’s told the beagle belongs to a man recently arrested for murder. Until the man is acquitted or gives permission, the beagle has to stay.

Andy, who could use both a dog and a client, goes to meet the man who is accused of blowing up a car and killing three people, including the boss who just fired him. The man agrees to let Andy temporarily take the beagle, and Andy agrees to take the case. While the prosecution sees it as an easy conviction, Andy is determined to uncover the truth. The more he learns about his client, the more convinced he becomes of his innocence.

This book also introduces many beloved characters: Laurie, who becomes Andy’s investigator and more; Marcus, his silent but deadly bodyguard; Sam, the quirky accountant down the hall who turns into his go-to tech guy; and Pete, the homicide detective Andy keeps well-fed at Charlie’s, the sports bar that doubles as his second home. We also meet Andy’s first wife and learn why that relationship unraveled. And, of course, we get the heartwarming origin story of his beloved Tara.

Rosenfelt brings a unique voice, sharp wit, and deep love for dogs to every book he writes, and that’s what makes this series such a consistent pleasure to read. He also rescues Goldens and other large dogs and wrote a nonfiction book, Dogtripping: 25 Rescues, 11 Volunteers, and 3 RVs on Our Canine Cross-Country Adventure, about moving from California to Maine with all 25 of his dogs. (That is not a typo!) He started the Tara Foundation, a dog rescue, and he keeps the dogs that are too old and too sick to be placed in homes. I met him when I convinced him to include my library in his book tour, and he was covered in dog hair, a perpetual state for him. At the time, he had 34 rescues in his home, and once compared his home office to a civil war battlefield, with all the bodies (dogs) covering the entire floor. He also makes every book tour a fundraiser for local animal shelters. There is a special place in heaven for a man who has rescued so many dogs (over 4000 at last count) and shares his passion with the world.

I loved this book!

7/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

DOGGED PURSUIT by David Rosenfelt. Minotaur Books (July 1, 2025). ISBN: 978-1250324511. 288p.

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COURTROOM DRAMA by Neely Tubati Alexander

July 11, 2025

From the publisher:

Legally Blonde and Jury Duty meet The Real Housewives in this high-stakes courtroom love story—a sexy and sweet but heartfelt novel about friendship, romance, and reality television from the acclaimed author of Love Buzz and In a Not So Perfect World.

Sydney Parks thinks she might be the first person in the world to look forward to serving jury duty. When Margot Kitsch, an OG cast member of the hit reality show Authentic Moms of Malibu is arrested after the untimely death of her cast member husband, Joe, Sydney knows being selected for the jury is the most interesting thing that ever happened to her.

However, it doesn’t take long for Sydney to realize that being part of a sequestered jury in a high-profile case is not at all what legal dramas had led her to expect—especially when she learns that her childhood best friend, Damon, whom she hasn’t seen in ten years, is also a jury member.

As the trial wears on, Sydney realizes there’s a lot more to the case than she first thought. And there’s also a lot more to Damon—she soon finds herself falling under his spell despite the court’s instructions not to fraternize. His tendency to break the rules and find adventure is hard to resist in their otherwise dull juror’s world. But getting close to Damon also means having to face the complicated reasons their friendship abruptly ended just when they were on the precipice of something more.

With all the drama in and out of the courtroom, how is Sydney supposed to ignore the fraught history between them? How is she supposed to avoid him when he’s sitting next to her in the jury box every day with his broad shoulders and intoxicating smell? And how is she supposed to ensure Margot gets a fair trial if her unfinished business with Damon causes the mistrial of the century?

“Taking the forced proximity trope to the limit, Tubati Alexander (In a Not So Perfect World) delivers a wildly entertaining romance between two members of a sequestered jury. . . . Tubati Alexander impressively drives forward both the murder trial and the romance, conjuring real chemistry between her leads and soapy, salacious intrigue in the courtroom. This is pure popcorn.” — Publishers Weekly

“A good pick for all romance collections, Alexander’s (In a Not-So-Perfect World) funny and moving novel is likely to be popular with reality television fans and those who enjoy the estranged friends-to-lovers trope.” —Library Journal
https://amzn.to/447l5Qo

Sydney Parks is obsessed with Authentic Moms of Malibu, a reality TV show in the vein of Real Housewives. When one of the show’s stars, Margot, gets arrested for murdering her husband Joe, Sydney can hardly contain her excitement to see how the drama unfolds.

That excitement reaches new heights when Sydney receives a jury summons and discovers she’s been selected for Margot’s murder trial. But the biggest surprise comes when she spots a familiar face among her fellow jurors: Damon, her childhood best friend who mysteriously vanished from her life years ago without explanation.

As the trial progresses and her old friendship rekindles, Sydney finds herself torn between loyalties. She desperately wants to believe in Margot’s innocence, but the mounting evidence begins to shake her faith. Meanwhile, being sequestered with the other jurors in an abandoned hotel gives Sydney and Damon plenty of time to reconnect and uncover the secrets that drove them apart. Their renewed friendship quickly blossoms into romance, but they must keep their relationship hidden to avoid causing a mistrial. As tensions rise both in the courtroom and between the sheets, Sydney faces increasingly difficult choices about justice, loyalty, and love.

This compelling blend of courtroom drama, reality TV satire, and forbidden romance creates an irresistible page-turner that keeps readers guessing until the very end. A super fun read!

7/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

COURTROOM DRAMA by Neely Tubati Alexander. Harper Perennial (May 20, 2025). ISBN: 978-0063428287. 352p.

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Spotlight Review: MURDER TAKES A VACATION by Laura Lippman

June 17, 2025

From the publisher:

A Riveting Mystery of Deception, Art Theft, and Unexpected Romance on a Parisian Cruise―Perfect for Summer Reading

Highly acclaimed New York Times bestselling author Laura Lippman returns with an irresistible mystery featuring Muriel Blossom, a former private investigator and middle-aged widow whose vacation on a Parisian river cruise turns into a deadly international mystery…that only she can solve.

Mrs. Blossom has a knack for blending into the background, which was an asset during her days assisting private investigator Tess Monaghan. But when she finds a winning lottery ticket in a parking lot, everything changes. She is determined to see the world that she sometimes feels is passing her by.

When Mrs. Blossom booked her cruise through France on the MS Solitaire, she did not expect to meet Allan on her transatlantic flight. He is the first man who’s sparked something inside her since her beloved husband passed.

She also didn’t expect Allan to be found, dead, twenty-four hours later in Paris, a city he wasn’t supposed to be in.

Now Mrs. Blossom doesn’t know who to trust on board the ship, especially when a mystifying man, Danny, keeps popping up around every corner, always present when things go awry. He is convinced that Allan was transporting a stolen piece of art, and Mrs. Blossom knows more than she lets on, regarding both the artifact and Allan’s death.

Mrs. Blossom’s questions only increase as the cruise sails down the Seine. Why does it feel like she is being followed? Who was Allan, and why was he killed? Most alarmingly, why do these mysterious men keep flirting with her?

A New York Times “Best Beach Reads of Summer”

One of Washington Post’s “Best Mysteries to Read This Summer”

One of Boston Globe‘s “Books to Add to Your Summer Reading List”

“Witty and propulsive. Lippman’s fans will feel like they hit the jackpot with this warm and cozy romp.” — Library Journal (starred review)

“Lippman triumphs with this charming mystery…. By the time the clever conclusion rolls around, readers will be sad to see this trip come to an end.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“A rollicking adventure of the highest order.” — New York Times

“Energetically entertaining…. Lippman manages to combine a light amateur sleuth story with a harder-edged thriller, combining both types of mysteries, which seldom intersect, into a cohesive, solid plot.” — South Florida Sun Sentinel
https://amzn.to/3SH5DnA

Mrs. Blossom, a widow in her sixties, relocates to Phoenix to help care for her grandchildren. But her plans are upended when her son-in-law announces that the family is moving to Japan—and there won’t be room for her. With no reason to stay, she returns to her hometown of Baltimore. A former private investigator who conducted surveillance work for renowned detective Tess Monaghan—star of Lippman’s popular mystery series, who makes a few cameos here—Mrs. Blossom’s unassuming appearance as an overweight woman in her sixties made her practically invisible during investigations.

Her life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a winning lottery ticket in a parking lot. After being told there’s no process for returning found tickets, she suddenly finds herself with more money than she’ll ever need and no family obligations. She decides to fulfill a lifelong dream: her first trip to Europe, booking a week in Paris followed by a river cruise with her oldest friend.

Mrs. Blossom is surprised when her economy seat gets upgraded to business class. Allan, a fellow passenger who overhears her confusion about the upgrade, takes her under his wing. He arranges for them to sit together and offers her a sleep aid for the overseas flight. When she awakens, she’s missed her connecting flight from London to Paris.

Allan convinces her to take the train instead, and they spend a delightful day exploring London together. Once in Paris, she meets Danny, a charming young man who claims to be a stylist and persuades her to go shopping. Their day together is pleasant enough, but things take a dark turn when Allan turns up dead—not in London where he claimed to have business meetings, but in Paris. The French police question Mrs. Blossom, and she discovers that Danny isn’t the stylist he pretended to be.

Her hotel room is thoroughly ransacked with no attempt at concealment, leaving Mrs. Blossom bewildered about what’s happening and why she’s involved. Danny continues appearing wherever she goes, even showing up on her river cruise. While he seems helpful, his constant presence raises questions about his trustworthiness. When her cabin is searched, the pieces begin falling into place as Allan’s death becomes entangled with insurance fraud and a missing bird statue, with a clever nod to The Maltese Falcon.

Through determination and her rusty detective skills, Mrs. Blossom ultimately unravels the mystery. This fast-paced story delivers an entertaining adventure with Mrs. Blossom as a thoroughly likable protagonist, plenty of plot twists, and a satisfying conclusion.

6/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

MURDER TAKES A VACATION by Laura Lippman. William Morrow (June 17, 2025). ISBN: 978-0062998101. 272p.

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Spotlight Review: NIGHTSHADE by Michael Connelly

May 20, 2025

From the publisher:

Introducing Detective Stilwell: a cop relentlessly following his mission in the seemingly idyllic setting of Catalina Island.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Detective Stilwell has been “exiled” to a low-key post policing rustic Catalina Island, after department politics drove him off a homicide desk on the mainland. But while following up the usual drunk-and-disorderlies and petty thefts that come with his new territory, Detective Stilwell gets a report of a body found weighed down at the bottom of the harbor—a Jane Doe identifiable at first only by a streak of purple dye in her hair. At the same time, a report of poaching on a protected reserve turns into a case fraught with violence and danger as Stilwell digs into the shady past of an island bigwig.

Crossing all lines of protocol and jurisdiction, Stilwell doggedly works both cases. Though hampered by an old beef with an ex-colleague determined to thwart him at every turn, he is convinced he is the only one who can bring justice to the woman known as “Nightshade.” Soon, his investigation uncovers closely guarded secrets and a dark heart to the serene island that was meant to be his escape from the evils of the big city.

Propulsive and atmospheric, Nightshade launches a brand new character into the Connelly universe, and proves without question that Michael Connelly is “the undisputed master of the modern crime novel” (Real Book Spy).

“Connelly’s compulsively readable, best-selling crime fiction is propelled by justice-seekers committed to their calling, no matter the risks…With an intriguingly low-key but skilled and principled hero, his significant other, a pesky if useful reporter, a conniving mayor, and a crime boss known as Baby Head, Nightshade is a gripping and promising start to crime virtuoso Connelly’s new series.”―Booklist (starred review)

“In this winning series launch, L.A. noir maestro Connelly proves small-town policing can be just as high stakes as crime solving in the big city . . . The claustrophobic setting and layered plotting evoke the crime novels of John D. MacDonald, and Stilwell makes for an intriguing hero, with enough biographical gaps for Connelly to sketch him in further in subsequent installments. The author’s fans will be thrilled to find him working in a new register.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Idyllic Catalina Island turns out to be just as crime infested as the rest of Los Angeles County in the latest series launch by the creator of Harry Bosch, Renée Ballard, and the Lincoln Lawyer . . . Connelly handles his hero’s obligatory romance with assistant harbormaster Tash Dano and his increasingly wary alliance with assistant D.A. Monika Juarez with equal professionalism, and if the wrap-up leaves some loose ends dangling, well, that’s what franchises are for.”―Kirkus Reviews
https://amzn.to/3F8rjpo

This is Michael Connelly’s first new series since introducing Renée Ballard, but at least in this debut installment, there’s no crossover with Mickey Haller, Harry Bosch, or Ballard herself. So, if you haven’t read those series yet (and seriously, why not?), you can jump in here with a clean slate. That said, the story is set on Catalina Island, just off Los Angeles, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s department does play a role—so who knows where Connelly might take things next? Either way, this is a gripping, compulsively readable book and a stellar launch to what promises to be a terrific series.

Our protagonist, Detective Sergeant Stilwell, commands the local police substation on Catalina, a refuge for misfit officers who’ve been banished from the mainland after various career mishaps. Stilwell himself landed there after a homicide investigation went sideways—partly due to fellow detective Ahearn, who cut corners rather than doing the work. While Ahearn got a slap on the wrist, Stilwell got exiled. But as it turns out, the island suits him just fine.

Stilwell is also navigating a new relationship with Tasha, the island’s harbormaster. His deputies are mostly inept, providing rare moments of lightness in an otherwise tense environment. The story opens with a bizarre crime: one of the island’s protected animals, a buffalo, has been decapitated. But what seems like an odd local incident soon snowballs into something much more serious.

There’s also a high-stakes theft at the exclusive Black Marlin Yacht Club, whose membership is limited to 100 original families and their heirs—openings occur only when a member dies without descendants. The club makes rare honorary exceptions for the judge who visits the island weekly and the mayor. When the club’s manager reports that the priceless black jade marlin statue, a fixture in the lobby for over a century, has vanished, Stilwell learns that the front entrance—where the statue sat—is rarely used. Members typically dock their yachts and enter from the water side. With no security system or cameras inside the club, Stilwell must rely on footage from the harbormaster’s cameras that point to the dock.

But the stakes escalate dramatically when a body in a bag is discovered submerged beneath a boat, tied to an anchor. LAPD Homicide steps in, and Stilwell is initially content to hand over the case—until he learns that Ahearn, his nemesis, is leading the investigation. Ordered to cooperate, Stilwell and Ahearn are forced into an uneasy alliance. Distrust simmers between them, and when Ahearn once again takes the path of least resistance, jumping to an easy conclusion without doing the legwork, Stilwell defies orders, digging deeper on his own. Eventually, he manages to convince his superiors that the case is far more complex than it seems.

Connelly layers the story with enough red herrings and misdirection to keep you hooked from start to finish. I found the new characters engaging, and I’m excited to see how they develop as the series continues. As far as I’m concerned, Connelly remains the king of crime fiction, the unparalleled master of the police procedural, and the virtuoso of Los Angeles noir. Don’t miss it.

5/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

NIGHTSHADE by Michael Connelly. Little, Brown and Company (May 20, 2025). ISBN: 978-1250329813. 352p.

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PARENTS WEEKEND by Alex Finlay

May 9, 2025

From the publisher:

From the bestselling author of If Something Happens to Me, comes one of the year’s most anticipated thrillers.

In the glow of their children’s exciting first year of college at a small private school in Northern California, five families gather over dinner and cocktails for the opening festivities of Parents Weekend. As the parents stay out way past their bedtimes, their kids―five residents of Campisi Hall―never show up to dinner.

At first, everyone thinks they’re just being college students, irresponsibly forgetting about the gathering or skipping out to go to a party. But as the hours tick by and another night falls with not so much as a text from the students, panic ensues. Soon the campus police call in reinforcements. Search parties are formed. Reporters swarm the small enclave. Rumors swirl and questions arise.

Libby, Blane, Mark, Felix, and Stella―The Five, as the podcasters, bloggers, and TikTok sleuths soon call them―come from very different families. What drew them out on that fateful night? Could it be the sins of their mothers and fathers come to cause them peril―or a threat to the friend group from within?

Told from each family’s point of view―and marking the return of FBI Special Agent Sarah Keller from Every Last Fear and The Night Shift―Parents Weekend explores the weight of expectation, family dysfunction, and those exhilarating first days in the dorms when friends become family.

“From one of the genre’s best . . . Finlay has a gift for intertwining many storylines and characters in a cohesive, compelling way. The tropes used here don’t feel stale, and plenty of surprises and red herrings will keep readers interested. Fans won’t want to miss Finlay’s latest.”―Booklist

“Finlay writes . . . with red herrings galore, and he caps the proceedings with a particularly shocking conclusion.”―Publishers Weekly

A Barnes & Noble’s “Most Anticipated Mysteries & Thrillers”
A LibraryReads Hall of Fame Selection for May 2025 ― Best Books Voted by Librarians
A Goodreads’ Readers’ “Most Popular Books Published in May 2025”

https://amzn.to/3RQiYtl

The title is what drew my attention here, but it’s the story that kept it. One of the worst weekends of my life was a parents’ weekend at college, for very different reasons than those in this story. Plus, I work at a small, private university and experience parents’ weekend every year from the staff side of things. Thankfully, nothing like this ever happened where I work!

The student body here is a mixture, like most campuses, of the haves and have-nots. One of the parents is a highly placed federal government employee who has Secret Service protection, while at the other end of the spectrum is the college president’s admin, whose son attends on a full scholarship. Another set of parents are staying at a five-star resort some distance from the school as they are too snobby to stay at the local hotel, so it’s a real mix. Most of the students live in the dorms, but one student lives in a fraternity house. These parents are thrust together because their kids are in the same capstone program at school.

The first nightmare is that a student goes missing a few days before the weekend, and is found accidentally drowned in a cave off the shore. That is horrible enough, but when the parents all meet up for the first night dinner, none of their kids show up. The parents spend some time getting to know one another and musing about their missing kids, chalking it up to kids being kids, and figure they probably went to a party instead of the parental dinner. But when no one can get hold of their kids, no texts, no phone calls, nothing, they start to worry a bit. By the next day, there’s still no word and no sign of them anywhere, and panic starts to set in.

FBI Agent Sarah Keller (Every Last Fear and The Night Shift) has asked for a hardship transfer as her father-in-law isn’t doing well and needs help. Her husband, a stay-at-home dad, and their kids have moved in with him, and her first assignment is at the university. Being new to the area, she doesn’t know anyone, even in her new department, but she is happy to work with the head of security at the university. He is professional and seems to have a real handle on things, as he was a former law enforcement officer. The story moves quickly, and I liked that we get different points of view. The local police are also involved, and as the days go by, the tension really ratchets up.

There are plenty of twists and turns here, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I don’t want to give anything away, but I will say that the ending was a shocker and very well done. This was a suspenseful page-turner, and I highly recommend it!

5/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

PARENTS WEEKEND by Alex Finlay. Minotaur Books (May 6, 2025). ISBN: 978-1250360724. 320p.

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Spotlight Review: CODE WORD ROMANCE by Carlie Walker

March 25, 2025

From the publisher:

One fake prime minister, one ridiculously hot handler, and one Italian summer collide in this thrilling adventure rom-com.

Max is just your average girl. She works odd jobs, has a soul-crushing amount of debt, and happens to bear an uncanny resemblance to Europe’s youngest female prime minister, Sofia Christensen. Sofia is powerful, beautiful—and unfortunately, someone is trying quite hard to assassinate her.

When the CIA approaches Max with a deal, a life-changing amount of money if she pretends to be Sofia on the prime minister’s annual Italian vacation, Max packs her bags for the Amalfi Coast. The delicious food, the breathtaking views—this trip would be a dream if it weren’t for those pesky assassins and Flynn, the handler assigned to Max’s case. Flynn, who has an unexpected history with Max, from another sun-drenched summer years and years ago. Now he’s instructed to stay in Max’s suite to protect her, as old passions and assassins collide.

Losing herself in the role of a prime minister is one thing. But losing her heart to Flynn again? Now that’s a risk she isn’t willing to take . . .

“A sharply written novel with surprise comedic twists. Readers will enjoy this tale of two ex-lovers who are reunited by espionage and who ultimately find true love as they race through the beautiful streets of Italy, trying to stay alive.”—Library Journal (STARRED)

“The tightly plotted mystery is leavened by moments of laugh-out-loud humor and endearing supporting characters, especially the scene-stealing Giorgio, a bumbling but jolly hotelier. Walker’s sophomore novel is sure to please existing fans and win her plenty of new ones.”—Publishers Weekly

https://amzn.to/4h7TBgV

Max, an ordinary young woman facing severe financial difficulties due to her restaurant’s failure during the pandemic, bears a striking resemblance to Sofia Christensen, Europe’s youngest female prime minister. When a credible death threat is made against the prime minister, the CIA approaches Max with a lucrative offer to impersonate Sofia during her annual Italian vacation.

The assignment, while financially attractive, is complicated by the presence of assassins and Max’s handler, Flynn, who Max fell in love with one summer several years earlier. When Flynn dumped her, she was heartbroken. Max finds herself in a precarious situation, balancing the need to convincingly portray the prime minister while safeguarding her emotions from Flynn.

This book presents a unique blend of high-stakes espionage and second-chance romance. The narrative skillfully combines elements of a spy thriller with a romantic comedy, creating an engaging and multifaceted story. Max’s commitment to her role as the prime minister is commendable, adding depth to her character development.

The novel’s pacing is enhanced by its mystery elements and plot twists, maintaining reader engagement throughout. The author successfully integrates action, humor, and romance, resulting in a reading experience reminiscent of a cinematic action-romance hybrid. This book is particularly recommended for readers who appreciate spy-themed narratives and romances set in Italian locales. Its distinctive premise and well-balanced combination of genres make it a noteworthy addition to contemporary romantic fiction.

3/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

CODE WORD ROMANCE by Carlie Walker. Berkley (March 18, 2025). ISBN: 978-0593640418. 320p.

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Spotlight Review: KILLS WELL WITH OTHERS by Deanna Raybourn

March 18, 2025

Killers of a Certain Age, Book 2

From the publisher:

“Much like fine wine, battle-hardened assassins grow better with age.”—#1 New York Times bestselling author Lisa Gardner

Four women assassins, senior in status—and in age—sharpen their knives for another bloody good adventure in this riotous follow-up to the New York Times bestselling sensation Killers of a Certain Age.

After more than a year of laying low, Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie are called back into action. They have enjoyed their time off, but the lack of excitement is starting to chafe: a professional killer can only take so many watercolor classes and yoga sessions without itching to strangle someone…literally. When they receive a summons from the head of the elite assassin organization known as the Museum, they are ready tackle the greatest challenge of their careers.

Someone on the inside has compiled a list of important kills committed by Museum agents, connected to a single, shadowy figure, an Eastern European gangster with an iron fist, some serious criminal ambition, and a tendency to kill first and ask questions later. This new nemesis is murdering agents who got in the way of their power hungry plans and the aging quartet of killers is next.

Together the foursome embark on a wild ride across the globe on the double mission of rooting out the Museum’s mole and hunting down the gangster who seems to know their next move before they make it. Their enemy is unlike any they’ve faced before, and it will take all their killer experience to get out of this mission alive.

“The Golden Girls of murder are back—bickering Natalie and Mary Alice, classy Helen, and, of course, ruthless Billie . . . In between the action scenes, they also snipe at each other in a way only lifelong friends can while also admitting their fears, such as pursuing relationships as a widow or the looming guilt of a mission gone wrong. Fans of the first book will be eager to return to this gang of kick-butt ladies.” —Booklist

“Fans of Killers of a Certain Age will enjoy the return of the four senior assassins whose escapades from the past and present are intermixed in a fast-paced, humorous adventure. The books stand out for their wit and unlikely friendships.”—Library Journal

“Four talented assassins combine their skills in order to survive what they’d expected to be a peaceful retirement . . . Delighted to be back at their old job despite their bickering and squabbling, they relive past cases as they travel to several unsavory European and Egyptian spots . . . and end up involved in an art theft case that dates back to the Third Reich. A nonstop-action thriller that’s often disconcertingly funny in posing moral questions about the murder of horrible people.”—Kirkus Reviews

https://amzn.to/4g6jk8H

I was excited to dive into the second installment of Deanna Raybourn’s Killers of a Certain Age series. This thriller is the perfect blend of friendship, humor, tension, risk, and nonstop action. The story follows Billie, Mary Alice, Helen, and Natalie, retired assassins who are pulled back into their former careers by the Museum’s new director, Naomi Ndiaye. The Museum is the name of this shadow international spy agency. A mole has leaked critical information, and the quartet must stop a killer targeting Museum employees linked to an Eastern European gangster. Former Nazis make an appearance as art theft is still a leftover issue from World War II that the Museum is keenly focused on, much like the Monuments Men.

The novel, largely told from Billie’s perspective, includes flashbacks to their past missions. Raybourn skillfully crafts dynamic, relatable characters with complex backgrounds. While there isn’t quite as much humor as was in the first book, the narrative remains captivating with its global settings, engaging characters, and unpredictable twists. The story explores themes beyond assassination, focusing on friendship, age, trust, and ethics, which add a lot of depth to the story.

Overall, Kills Well with Others is a compelling, fast-paced thriller that combines mature characters with plenty of action and humor. If you enjoy unique series with strong characters, this is definitely worth reading. I loved it.

3/2025 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch

KILLS WELL WITH OTHERS by Deanna Raybourn. Berkley (March 4, 2025). ISBN: 978-0593638514. 368p.