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The Hollow - Michael Connelly

Pub. Date: Oct, 27, 2026

LAPD Detective Harry Bosch, now retired, spent a significant part of his childhood as a ward of the state at MacLaren’s Children’s center, a horrific and abusive environment. As a result of a multi-billion dollar class action lawsuit, Harry, along with other former residents, is entitled to a substantial settlement. Harry doesn’t want the money, he just wants to solve the covered -up murder of a friend of his killed while at MacLaren. As Harry investigates, he relives some of his years at that institution while pursuing a diabolical fellow internee. Simultaneously, he becomes involved in a secondary, intertwined storyline involving the FBI’s search for some stolen weapons.

For fans of Michael Connelly, this book is a quadruple treat. Not only is Bosch back, but we also have Ballard, Mickey Haller, the Lincoln Lawyer, and Harry’s daughter Maddie, although they play supporting roles. Harry is the true star of this narrative.

The 26th installment in this series, it does work well as a standalone. However, if you have been following Bosch for a few years, I believe it will enhance your enjoyment of this read.

The book employs dual timelines, alternating between the present day and Harry’s past years following his mother’s death. Through the earlier timeline, readers gain more insight into Bosch’s formative history. Now older and retired, he is doing some bird watching and is the recent recipient of a knee replacement. He may have slowed down physically, but he is as mentally sharp as ever.

Michael Connelly is one of the first authors of mysteries that I started following years ago. He is a master story teller. This, as is his past books, is well plotted with compelling story lines.

The action and unraveling of the mysteries unfold swiftly, building tension throughout the narrative. Harry is a great character…his grumpiness, his desire for justice, his view that “everybody counts or nobody counts”, his disregard for always following protocol. He is a true maverick. I want fictional time to stop so that Harry remains with us for many more years.

CONTINUED IN COMMENTS by @shereadbookblog

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4 hours ago

Hanging and Burning - Walter Mosley

Pub. Date: Oct. 20, 2026

At his grandmother’s request, private investigator Joe King Oliver embarks on a quest to find the granddaughter of one of her fellow cancer patients.This journey takes him from LA to New York and back again, revealing a dark history of gangsters and violence.

It has been quite a while since I last read a Walter Mosley book, and although this is the fourth installment in the King Oliver series, it is the first I have read.

There are many characters who seem to drift in and out of the narrative. While I appreciated the vivid descriptions of the characters’ clothing choices, particularly Oliver’s, the story itself failed to resonate with me. Mosley fans will undoubtedly enjoy this addition to his extensive body of work, but it simply wasn’t for me.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @LittleBrown for the DRC.

***Qotd: What are you reading or writing today and what is the genre?***

#Mystery #Thriller #HangingandBurning #KingOliverSeries #Nextinseries #UpcomingSequel by @shereadbookblog

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6 days ago

Missing Molly - Natalie Barelli

Pub. Date: Oct. 20, 2026

Except for her occasional panic attacks, Rachel lives a quiet life with her daughter and partner. She works at a struggling local newspaper. To revive itself, the paper embarks on a podcast about a gruesome murder that occurred twelve years ago. A mother, father, and one daughter were found clubbed to death. The youngest daughter, Molly, has not been seen since. Someone was charged with the crime but never tried as he committed suicide. Initially, Rachel fights doing the podcast because she knows the truth as she is the Molly who is missing. However, she eventually joins in on the research, which puts her and others' lives in grave danger.

While I thought it well written, this story troubled me. I couldn’t understand why Rachel wouldn’t simply quit her job and distance herself from the story instead of becoming so deeply involved and putting her, her daughter, and her husband’s lives at risk. As she made one poor choice after another, I found it difficult to believe that she had survived on her own for so long, including a time when she lived on the streets.

Despite these reservations, I couldn’t put the book down.

After I read the book, I discovered that it was originally published in 2018; I don’t know if it was updated for this new release in 2026.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @poisonedpress for the DRC.

****QoTD: What is a scent you really like and one you really dislike?****

#MissingMolly #Thriller #Suspense #Dark #PsychologicalThriller by @shereadbookblog

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7 days ago

SIBO Uncovered - Kirsten Janz, R.H.N., CFNP
Pub. Date: Oct. 6, 2026

Millions of people grapple with gastrointestinal issues stemming from small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). This comprehensive review, authored by a holistic nutritionist and functional nutrition practitioner, delves into the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of SIBO. It also serves as a guide to restoring and maintaining gut health.

The book is packed with valuable information that aids in understanding this condition and coping with it effectively. Readers with SIBO or those supporting someone with it will find the explanation of the various types of SIBO, along with treatment options and diverse diets that promote good gut health, particularly beneficial.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @amplifypubgroup for the DRC.

Buddhist Practices for Calming Anxiety and Regulating Your Nervous System - Tim Desmond
Pub. Date: Jan. 12, 2027

This is a valuable introduction to some of the fundamental principles of Buddhism, particularly their relevance to managing anxiety. The concise chapters provide insights into understanding anxiety and practical techniques for dealing with it.

What struck me while reading this was the overlap between some of the thoughts and practices proposed and the methods employed in cognitive psychology. I intend to reread this book multiple times to fully grasp the processes and their practical applications.

Thanks to @Netgally and @w.w.Norton for the DRC.

The Inflammation Reset: The 28-Day Plan to Reduce Pain, Restore Energy, and Reverse Hidden Inflammation The Reset Series, Book 1 - Ron Yaffe

Fatigued? Achy? Brain fog? Weight you can’t lose? The culprit may be inflammation….inflammation that has been building up in the body for years. Inflammation caused by poor diet, stress, toxins, inadequate sleep. The author, a naturopath and functional medicine practitioner, explores the specifics that cause this inflammation and proposes a 28 day plan to reverse it.

There are specific, realistic recommendations for reversing this trend. I found the discussion of and plan for diet and exercise particularly instructive, as were the suggestions for lab work. by @shereadbookblog

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12 days ago

Her Last Kiss - Lisa Regan

Pub. Date: Oct. 20, 2026

It has been thirteen years since Sylvia West was the sole survivor of “The Last Kiss” serial killer. She has finally agreed to an interview with Detective Josie Quinn’s journalistic twin sister, Tiffany. When Josie drives Tiffany to a follow-up interview with the survivor, she finds Sylvia’s strangled body with the killer’s signature lipstick mark and the house in flames.

Over the years, the killer has struck throughout the state of Pennsylvania, and when another victim is found in Josie’s hometown of Denton, she must delve into those other cases to uncover clues as to the motivation and identity of the culprit.

This is the twenty-fifth in the Detective Josie Quinn series, and I have read many of them. This can work as a standalone, however, as author Lisa Regan does an excellent job of filling in background information on the main players. In fact, each installment offers deeper insights into their histories and personalities.

This is yet another page-turner from Regan. It is difficult not to repeat the same accolades for this narrative as given to the prior ones, yet each story is unique and compelling. Well written, the suspense and suspicions mount as the plot progresses. And, oh, those twists!

I like how the repeating characters show growth and change with time and experience. Josie, despite all the travails she has met with in her life, is a strong, intelligent, though vulnerable woman. The introduction of Wren, a teenager Josie and her husband Noah are guardians of, provides opportunities for them to strengthen their relationship, grow as parents, and explore the impact of their backgrounds on their personalities.
Detective Turner, a relatively new and annoying character nicknamed “Douchbag” by Josie, reveals even more of his history and abilities and perhaps even some chance to redeem himself with the team.

If you’re a fan of well-written, character-driven, fast-paced police procedurals and thrillers, and you’re not familiar with author Lisa Regan, I highly recommend this book and series. I eagerly anticipate the next installment!

Thanks to @NetGalley and @BookOuture for the DRC. by @shereadbookblog

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13 days ago

Silent Embers - John Carson

Pub. Date: Oct. 4, 2026

A young woman is brutally murdered and buried while taking a shortcut through a cemetery on Halloween in Fife. A theater costume dress is left hanging by her body. DCI Liam Brodie is assigned to investigate. The dress was worn in a play five years ago, the night the theater burned down, killing two people and injuring others. How does this relate to the murdered woman, and who else is in danger?

This fast-paced mystery/thriller features two intriguing plot lines centered around Brodie’s investigations. There’s a touch of humor amidst the dark story, along with twists and turns.

This is the third in the DCI Liam Brodie series. While it does work as a standalone, having read the prior installments will give more background and context.

Fans of mysteries, solid police procedurals, Scottish locations, and thrillers will enjoy this read.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @BoldwoodBooks for the DRC.

****QoTD:What has aggravated you lately? Or what has made you smile?****

#Bookstagram #Scotland #PoliceProcedural #MysteryThriller #SilentEmbers

MysterySeries Nextinseries Upcoming sequel by @shereadbookblog

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14 days ago

The Dying Light - Ann Cleeves

Pub. Date: Sept. 29, 2026

This is the fourth installment in the Two Rivers series featuring DI Matthew Venn. Although I have read and enjoyed all four of them, this would work as a standalone.

It is summer in Devon and the weather is sizzling. A young woman is found dead, floating in the pool of a posh vacation home and her friend, the daughter of the owners of the home, is missing. As DI Venn and his team investigate, they suspect the families of the girls are concealing something. Is this a crucial clue that will lead to solving the case, or are other factors at play?

Well written, with strong character development, Cleeves will have readers guessing throughout. She prioritizes character-driven storytelling and plot-driven suspense over action-packed sequences. This is an engrossing read that I didn’t want to put down. It is atmospheric and a bit claustrophobic due to the small, rather insular community and the sultry weather.

If you are unfamiliar with this series, you might recognize Cleeves name from her immensely successful Vera and Shetland books and TV series. If you are a fan of methodical, introspective, well plotted police procedurals with engaging characters, I highly recommend her books.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @StMartinsPress and @Minotaur_Books for the DRC.

*****QoTD: The fall (or spring) is here. To what are you looking forward?******

#AnnCleeves #TwoRiversseries #detectivematthewvenn #bookseries #Bookstagram

mysteryseries upcomingsequels UKbookstagram UKcrimemystery UKmystery UKcrime UKnovel UKbookstagrammers comingsoon upcomingbookreleases upcomingbooks policeprocedural by @shereadbookblog

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20 days ago

Her Lips Are Sealed - Helen Phifer

Pub. Date: Sept. 28, 2026

A young woman living by herself is found murdered, her lips adorned with bright red lipstick. The killer leaves behind a chilling note warning of more victims to come, sealed with the imprint of the woman’s lips. When a second woman is found dead in a similar manner, with the same red lips and accompanying note, Detective Morgan Brookes and her colleagues are thrust into a race against time to uncover the culprit and prevent further deaths.

This is the nineteenth installment in the Morgan Brookes series, one of my must-read series. I’ve read most of them, and while each book contributes to the development of the recurring characters, this one could stand alone.

This is another of Helen Phifer’s engrossing, fast-paced, thrilling narratives. This was one time when I guessed the culprit right from the beginning, but that didn’t stop me from being glued to the story, unable to put it down. What truly resonates with me in this series is not only Madison’s capabilities and determination, but also her profound empathy.

I enjoy the camaraderie and teasing relationships among her team. The tension of the case is balanced by moments of biting humor, adding depth to the narrative. Some new characters are introduced in this installment, and I hope to see them again in future episodes.

This is a good series for fans of British police procedurals, mysteries, and thrillers, especially those that feature capable female detectives with amiable supporting characters.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @BookOuture for the DRC.

****QoTD:Where does your current read (or written work) take place and what is the profession of the main character?****

#HerLipsareSealed @HelenPhifer #Mystery #Thriller #UKCrimenovel #Bookstagram

partofaseries womandetective femaledetectiveseries Femaledetectivebooks mysteryseries Iloveamystery policeprocedural crimefiction newbookreleases upcomingsequels nextinseries thrillerreads serialkiller by @shereadbookblog

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21 days ago

Tough Sh!t: The angry woman's guide to embodying change: A self-reflection & somatic journal - Arianne MacBean LMFT

Many women today feel anger, fear, sadness, and hurt. This book offers guidance on how to accept those feelings and channel them into something positive; realizing one’s true self. It’s OK to feel these emotions. Recognize them and use them.

This book provides a safe space for women to recognize, express, and manage those emotions. While it’s designed to be used in conjunction with therapy, I believe there’s value in reading and using it independently.

Mental health professionals often recommend journaling as a positive practice, but some individuals find it challenging to get started. This book offers a structured approach to journaling through a series of prompts and exercises.

The book is divided into five sections, each focusing on one of the four emotions (anger, fear, sadness, and hurt) and the fifth section on achieving true self. True self involves understanding one’s strengths and vulnerabilities. Accompanying each section are somatic popups that suggest light, short exercises. I found these exercises helpful and have jotted down some to assist me in dealing with my own cortisol overload.

This is a very worthwhile “self-reflection and somatic journal” for women trying to navigate our very complex world.

Thanks to @abprlifestyle for the Book.

*****QoTD: This week seems to be my week for self-help books. What are some of the ways you deal with negative feelings/emotions?*****

@synergysomatics #HealingJourney #WomensupportingWomen #SelfHelp

Womenswellness SelfHelp StressRelease Health MindBody StressControl MentalHealth SelfReflection by @shereadbookblog

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a month ago

The Cortisol Cure - Dr. Erin Kinney

Pub. Date: Sept. 22, 2026

The stress hormone, cortisol, is receiving a lot of attention recently. In this book, a physician delves into its impact on our functioning and provides practical advice on developing a plan to improve both physical and mental well-being. The book uses patient histories to illustrate effective strategies for managing cortisol issues.

I appreciated the book’s organized approach, categorizing specific topics such as sleep, weight, and digestion. For those who benefit from reading about other people’s experiences, there are numerous examples. Personally, I would have preferred a more concise and direct approach.

To truly benefit from the recommendations, lab work is recommended, as are a variety of supplements. There is a lot of repetition, but if the reader uses this book just by chapter headings (conditions of interest), that repetition is necessary.

There are some helpful tips and takeaways here. The extensive information provided makes repeated readings, note-taking, and underlining highly recommended.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @GrandCentralPub for the DRC.

***QoTD: What do you do to help with stress relief? Or, what are you reading today and its genre?***

#TheCortisolCure #SelfHelp #StressRelease #Health #MindBody #StressControl #MentalHealth by @shereadbookblog

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a month ago

The Big Cats Dance Party - Alexander McCall Smith

Pub. Date: Sept. 15, 2026

The assistance of the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency is sought to solve a problem at an elephant sanctuary in the north which will require a long trip and a few over night stays for Mma Ramotswe and Mma Makutsi. Mr J.L.B. Matekoni, husband of Mma Ramotswe decides to make the trip with the women.

That leaves assistant to the detectives Charlie in charge just as a wealthy client comes forward to seek assistance to find out why one of his enterprises seems to be making too much money. Will Mma Makutsi’s ominous predictions about Charlie come true or will the trust placed in him pay off?

This is the twenty-seventh installment in the delightful and heartwarming No. 1 Ladies Detective series. All the beloved familiar characters are here.
And, yes, the talking shoes do make a cameo appearance!

This is another uplifting addition to the series. While each new case presents an intriguing challenge, the true essence of the series lies in the joy derived from the interactions and musings of the main characters.. Mma Ramotswe’s gentle demeanor and unwavering optimism in finding the positive in even the most daunting situations offer a sense of comfort and solace. Her wisdom is profound in its simplicity.

This story is perfect for a relaxing afternoon or evening read, especially while sipping a soothing cup of tea. Fans of McCall Smith’s gentle prose and insightful observations will undoubtedly welcome this latest addition to his remarkable body of work.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @AAKnopf @PantheonBooks for the DRC.

*****QoTD: Describe, in at least five word, your ideal book to read*****

#TheBigCatsDanceParty #CozyMystery #alexandermccallsmith #Africastory #booksofinstagram

Bestsellingauthor cozymystery no1ladiesdetectiveagency kindlereads Bookstagram readersofinstagram Iloveaseries upcomingsequel NextinSeries onedayread newrelease mysteryseries Botswana
bookssetinafrica whatimreading womandetective femaledetectivebooks femaledetectiveseries bookseries Botswana by @shereadbookblog

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a month ago

The French Illusion - John Grisham

Pub. Date: Sept. 29, 2026

Paul and Chelsea’s dream honeymoon to Paris is brutally interrupted when they are kidnapped and held for ransom. It is an unimaginable nightmare for them and their families. As numerous international agencies become involved in the search for them, it is revealed that they are not the only young couple to have been kidnapped while honeymooning in Paris.

International suspense is not my usual genre of choice, but Grisham is such a talented storyteller that I couldn’t put this riveting narrative down. The fast-paced, short chapters and masterful plot kept me engaged from beginning to end.

While there are some descriptions of torture, if they trigger a warning for you, do what I do and skim over them. The ending did feel a bit abrupt, but after this tense and emotionally charged journey, it was acceptable.

Without giving away any spoilers, this book reminds us that even though they may be unrelated to you in your everyday life, your government’s actions have consequences.

Thanks to @NetGalley and @DoubledayBooks for the DRC.

*****Qotd: Are you someone whose social media is public or private? Do you post your comings and goings as they are occur or are you more circumspect?*****

#TheFrenchIllusion #JohnGrisham #JohnGrishamBooks #Suspense #Bookstagram

BestSellingAuthors AutobuyAuthors ThrillerThursday ThrillerReads GrishamFan InternationalThriller Paris Kidnapping by @shereadbookblog

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a month ago