This month’s reading list took me all over the world—and a few centuries, too. I unraveled a murder mystery in Italy, chased spies through Switzerland and Lithuania, wandered the streets of York and London, and even made stops in Georgia and Alabama. Between the historical fiction, a clever middle-grade adventure, a heartwarming picture book, a bit of magical realism, and a guide on how to stay Rapture-ready (just in case), it’s safe to say my literary passport is full. Buckle up—this month’s reviews are quite the trip.
Robert Ludlum’s The Bourne Shadow
By Brian Freeman
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
Electrifying Action: Brian Freeman Delivers with The Bourne Shadow
Brian Freeman’s The Bourne Shadow is an absolute knock-out. The fifth installment in Freeman’s continuation of the Jason Bourne series is everything you’d want in a high-octane thriller—loaded with tension, packed with action, and impossible to put down.
Freeman dives into David Webb’s haunting past, weaving a taut narrative that forces Bourne to confront secrets buried under years of amnesia. When a woman unexpectedly recognizes him as Webb, it sets off an electrifying chain of events that thrusts him into a breakneck journey across Europe. From neo-Nazi cells to political intrigue, the stakes couldn’t be higher as Bourne searches for answers about his forgotten life.
The pacing here is masterful. Freeman balances intense action sequences with character-driven moments, giving readers time to connect with Bourne and his personal struggles without losing the momentum of the plot. And the story’s exploration of Bourne’s identity—torn between Webb and his shadowy alter ego—brings depth to the adrenaline-fueled narrative.
I supplemented the eBook with audio, and Scott Brick’s narration elevated the experience. His voice captured every ounce of suspense and urgency, making it feel like I was right there with Bourne.
If you’re a longtime follower of the series or just love a good spy thriller, The Bourne Shadow won’t disappoint. It’s violent, unrelenting, and thoroughly absorbing—a true testament to Freeman’s talent. 5 stars all the way.
** Thanks to the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
The Great Disappearance: 31 Ways to be Rapture Ready
By David Jeremiah
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
I didn’t necessarily learn anything new from The Great Disappearance, but it was a refreshing reminder of God’s promises as we approach the Tribulation. Dr. David Jeremiah’s latest book is both thought-provoking and uplifting, offering a clear biblical perspective on the next event on God’s prophetic timetable—the Rapture.
This isn’t a book of fear or sensationalism. Instead, it’s full of hope and joy, guiding readers to see God’s plan unfolding and grasp the significance of prophetic Scripture. Dr. Jeremiah calls this “prophecy motivation,” encouraging believers to live with boldness and expectancy. The thirty-one brief chapters are easy to read, each offering practical insights that connect biblical truths to daily living.
Dr. Jeremiah explores key aspects of the Rapture, including its distinction from the Second Coming and the profound joy of anticipating Christ’s return. He reminds readers that the timing isn’t as important as the reality, urging us to focus on living as “citizens of heaven traveling through earth.” With Peter’s five traits of Rapture-ready people—purity, promise, purpose, patience, and progress—Dr. Jeremiah offers actionable steps for spiritual growth.
Though the descriptions of the Tribulation are sobering, the reassurance that believers will be raptured beforehand provides peace. This book is an inspiring call to live with faith and readiness, rooted in God’s unchanging promises. If you’re looking for biblical truth and practical encouragement about the end times, The Great Disappearance is a splendid choice. 5 stars.
** Thanks to Thomas Nelson for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
The Refugee’s Daughter
By Carolyn Newton
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 stars)
Survival, Separation, and the Strength of the Human Spirit
I’ve read many WWII books, but The Refugee’s Daughter by Carolyn Newton stands out. Set against the stark realities of war-torn East Prussia and the horrors of Soviet gulags, it sheds light on the little-known Wolfskinder—children who faced unimaginable trauma to survive.
Thirteen-year-old Giti and her brother, Otto, live with their mother and grandmother. Russian soldiers attacked, killing their grandmother and burning their farm, forcing the survivors onto a crowded train bound for the Soviet Union. Tragedy strikes again, separating Giti and Otto. Giti escapes into the forest, where she’s rescued by a man in hiding. The two form an unlikely bond, but Giti’s determination to find her brother never wavers.
The dual timeline adds depth, though the contemporary narrative isn’t as captivating as Giti’s story. While some descriptive passages slow the pace, they build an immersive post-war setting. The author’s meticulous research is clear, bringing vivid authenticity to the story.
The characters, particularly Giti, left a lasting impression. Her courage and resilience are unforgettable, and Otto’s fate kept me emotionally invested. The talented audiobook cast brought the story to life, making the experience even more impactful.
Gritty, gut-wrenching, but ultimately hopeful, The Refugee’s Daughter is a testament to resilience and the power of family bonds. I thoroughly enjoyed it. 4.5 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a complimentary review copy of the audiobook. The opinions are my own.
This Is Why We Lied
By Karin Slaughter
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 stars)
A Dark and Twisty Honeymoon Gone Wrong
Talk about dysfunctional families! Everyone in Karin Slaughter’s This Is Why We Lied has secrets, but only one of them is a killer. From the first scream at McAlpine Lodge, the tension never lets up. This locked-room mystery—the 12th book in the Will Trent series—had me hooked from the start.
Will Trent and Sara Linton just wanted a quiet honeymoon. Instead, they stumble upon a murder and a web of lies so tangled it’s hard to know who to trust. Mercy McAlpine, the lodge manager, dies whispering her last words to Will, and every family member and guest quickly becomes a suspect. Mercy’s abusive ex, her ice-cold parents, and even the creepy family friend all have motives. Slaughter makes it impossible to pin down the truth until the final pages.
The story dives deep into some heavy topics—abuse, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to protect secrets—so brace yourself for disturbing moments. I had to skim past a gruesome autopsy scene. That said, the mystery is engrossing, and Slaughter’s pacing keeps you turning pages.
Will’s personal connection to the case adds emotional depth, and his dynamic with Sara is a grounding force in the chaos. While there are a lot of moving parts, the ending delivers a shocking and satisfying twist.
If you love dark, intense thrillers with complex characters and razor-sharp suspense, this one’s for you. A solid 4.5-star read—I couldn’t put it down!
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
We Solve Murders
By Richard Osman
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5 stars)
Adventures, Assassins, and Adrenaline in We Solve Murders
Richard Osman has done it again! We Solve Murders kicks off a brand-new series featuring an unlikely detective duo: retired police officer Steve Wheeler and his adrenaline-junkie daughter-in-law, Amy. Packed with humor, heart, and a fast-paced plot, this book will keep you hooked.
Steve is living his best low-key life in a quiet English village with his cat, Trouble, and pub quiz nights. Amy, meanwhile, is in chaos, working as a bodyguard for best-selling author Rosie D’Antonio, whose latest novel has ticked off some dangerous people.
When a murder frame-up puts Amy in the crosshairs, she calls on Steve for help. Cue a high-stakes, globetrotting adventure with Steve, Amy, and Rosie that takes them from South Carolina to Dubai, with a few stops in-between, dodging assassins, uncovering conspiracies, and navigating influencer drama.
This story has Osman’s signature charm and humor. The characters are zany but relatable, and while the mystery isn’t mind-blowingly complex, it’s entertaining. The relationship between Steve and Amy is the heart of the story, and their odd-couple dynamic shines. Rosie adds a fun, glamorous flair, proving she’s more than just a tagalong.
While the new group doesn’t quite match the charm of The Thursday Murder Club sleuths, I know I’ll come to love them, too. Osman fans will enjoy this mix of cozy crime and caper chaos. The audiobook, narrated brilliantly by Nicola Walker, is a perfect companion. 4.5 stars. Bring on the next case!
The Glassmaker
By Tracy Chevalier
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
A Timeless Tale of Art and Family
Tracy Chevalier’s The Glassmaker feels like stepping into a kaleidoscope—colorful, intricate, and timeless. Set on Murano, the island of Venetian glassmakers, this novel captures the lives of the Rosso family, particularly the indomitable Orsola Rosso, whose spirit and skill defy societal expectations.
The story opens in 1486, where Orsola longs to craft delicate glass goblets, but as a woman, she’s deemed fit only to make “inconsequential” beads. Those very beads save her family repeatedly as the novel skips through centuries of triumph, loss, and survival. From the Renaissance to plagues, Napoleon’s conquests, and even COVID-19, Chevalier vividly portrays Murano’s changing fortunes and the resilience of the Rosso women.
The glassmaking details are fascinating. Chevalier’s research shines, and her descriptions of molten glass transforming into art are pure magic. Orsola’s love story—spanning over 500 years—adds a touch of romantic melancholy, though the concept of her aging slowly strained belief. The historical cameos, from Casanova to Empress Josephine and famous glassmaker Antonio Barovier, ground the Rosso family’s fictional tale in history.
Some moments felt rushed, especially in later centuries, but the heart of the novel—family, artistry, and tradition—endures.
If you love beautifully crafted historical fiction with strong female leads and rich sensory detail, The Glassmaker won’t disappoint. A fascinating, well-researched 4-star read!
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
The Last Daughter of York
By Nicola Cornick
Secrets, Skeletons, and Supernatural Twists in “The Last Daughter of York”
⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5 stars)
For eleven years, her twin sister Caitlin’s disappearance has haunted Serena Warren. The discovery of Caitlin’s bones in an untouched 18th-century church vault thrusts Serena into a tangled web of family secrets, historical mysteries, and a relic with otherworldly power. Add in the Wars of the Roses, the Princes in the Tower, and a dash of paranormal intrigue, and you’ve got Nicola Cornick’s The Last Daughter of York.
This dual-timeline novel spans centuries, weaving the stories of Serena in the present and Anne Lovell in the 15th century. Francis and Anne’s tale of loyalty and loss during the fall of Richard III is rich with drama, but Serena’s modern-day quest to uncover the truth behind Caitlin’s death feels less convincing. I mean, how does someone casually guess their friend has psychometry? I rolled my eyes.
The historical elements shine, and the supernatural bits are mild enough not to overshadow the plot. That said, Anne as a five-year-old sounded suspiciously like an adult woman, and the historical narrative was bogged down by too many characters.
Still, I appreciated Cornick’s skillful blend of historical fact and fiction. I even found myself Googling the Wars of the Roses and the Princes in the Tower mid-read. Yes, some parts stretched believability, but if you’re looking for escapist historical fiction with heart and a touch of magic, this is worth the read. I’d call it 3.5 stars.
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
Untethered
By Angela Jackson-Brown
Faith, Family, and Finding Oneself in 1967 Alabama
⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5 stars)
Untethered is a thought-provoking exploration of faith, duty, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of a racially tense 1967 Alabama. Katia Daniels, the protagonist, has dedicated her life to caring for others—first her family, and now the boys at the Pike County Group Home. Her struggles with love, loss, and a deeply rooted sense of obligation unfold in a story filled with emotional depth and historical context.
While I appreciated the book’s focus on faith and its examination of trauma, I had trouble fully connecting with the characters and the narrative. The writing sometimes felt awkward, and the story lacked cohesion, which made it hard to stay engaged. Repetition throughout the book became frustrating, and despite the intriguing premise, the pacing often felt too slow.
That said, the novel shines in its portrayal of Katia’s resilience and the complexity of her relationships, particularly as she navigates her connection with Seth, a figure from her past. The narrative beautifully weaves together themes of faith and healing, lending the story an emotional weight that lingers.
Ultimately, while Untethered didn’t fully capture me, it’s a reflective read that touches on important topics. For those who appreciate historical fiction with introspective characters and a strong faith element, this novel might resonate more deeply. My rating: 3.5 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a complimentary advance copy. The opinions are my own.
I Rode a Horse of Milk White Jade
By Diane Lee Wilson
⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars)
A Journey Through Mongolia: Our Take on I Rode a Horse of Milk White Jade
I read I Rode a Horse of Milk White Jade with my 10-year-old granddaughter as a buddy read. While I appreciated the historical depth, my granddaughter’s feedback strongly shaped my rating—3 stars. As she put it, “It’s hard to compete with Harry Potter!”
The story begins with Oyuna, a girl born on the Mongolian steppes during the reign of Kublai Khan, cursed with bad luck after a horse crushes her foot. Determined to prove her worth, she disguises herself as a boy and embarks on an incredible journey with her old mare. Along the way, Oyuna faces trials that lead her to the Khan’s palace, where she plays a key role in saving the ruler’s herd of white horses.
While the premise is fascinating, the pacing left us both restless at times. The last third of the book picks up dramatically, delivering excitement and tying Oyuna’s journey together with satisfying resolve. However, the narrative often felt detached, making it hard to emotionally connect with Oyuna despite her bravery and resilience.
What I did love was the richly detailed portrayal of life in 14th-century Mongolia. The author’s research shines, offering a glimpse into the rituals, beliefs, and landscapes of the era. It’s a rewarding read for those interested in historical fiction, though the slow pacing may test younger readers’ patience.
In the end, Oyuna’s story of courage and self-discovery is inspiring but fell short of captivating us entirely. A solid 3-star read.
You Are Not Alone
By Alphabet Rockers, Ashley Evans (Illustrator), Kaitlin McGaw (Contributor), Tommy Shepherd (Contributor)
⭐⭐ (2 stars)
Beautiful Illustrations, Misaligned Audience
As the grandmother of seven (4 of which are in the target age group), I can’t give this book a glowing review. Read on to see why.
Alphabet Rockers takes their song of the same name and transforms it into a book, showcasing diverse kids sharing their experiences with exclusion, misunderstanding, and the need to speak up. The narrators, a mix of races, genders, and abilities, tell their stories in a series of vignettes, encouraging readers to listen and amplify voices of protest and support.
The book opens with a Black child expressing fears about safety and inviting readers to understand their perspective. Other stories follow, including a South Asian child frustrated by the mispronunciation of their name, a DJ with a prosthetic arm, and a nonbinary child, among others. The message of woke activism runs throughout.
The illustrations are fabulous, but the text sometimes feels choppy, and the content doesn’t seem age-appropriate for the intended kindergarten-to-grade-2 audience. The characters feel more like adolescents than young children, and concepts like being nonbinary or Black Lives Matter are likely too complex for this age group to grasp. While I respect the book’s intent to spark conversations about inclusion, I’m not convinced it’s a good fit for early elementary readers—or necessary at this stage of their development. Rating: 2 stars
* Thanks to the publisher for a review copy. The opinions are my own.