Category: Genres

Michael Cordy’s Manhattan Down is a riveting, edge-of-your-seat thriller that grips you from the very first page and doesn’t let go. Combining high-stakes drama, a chillingly plausible scenario, and relentless pacing, this novel is both a heart-pounding action story and a thought-provoking commentary on the fragility of our modern world.

Set against the sweltering backdrop of a climate crisis and the weighty symbolism of the 9/11 anniversary, Cordy weaves a tale of suspense and intrigue. The premise is utterly gripping: a mysterious event renders the entire population of Manhattan unconscious, except for two compelling protagonists—Samantha Rossi, a determined single mother, and Nick Lockwood, a damaged yet resilient NYPD detective. Their race against time to uncover the truth and protect what they hold dear is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling.

The atmospheric tension in Manhattan Down is palpable, and the twists keep coming, making it impossible to put the book down. This story feels tailor-made for the big screen or a binge-worthy streaming series.

A must-read for fans of tech thrillers, disaster dramas, and stories that keep you guessing until the very end. Bravo, Michael Cordy!

You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego is a neat homage to the classic locked-room murder mystery with a twist. What starts as a slightly over-the-top, gothic setup, a secluded island, a mysterious host, and a gathering of thriller writers, quickly grows into a compelling and layered narrative as the characters’ voices shine through.

The premise of six bestselling authors navigating a deadly game orchestrated by the enigmatic J.R. Alastor is both meta and engaging, especially as their own thriller-writing instincts come into play in a life-or-death scenario.

Though the conclusion veers toward the predictable for seasoned mystery readers, Pliego keeps things interesting by delivering a few unexpected turns as the threads come together. The pacing is brisk, the stakes are high, and the interplay between the characters adds a dynamic energy that keeps you turning the pages.

For fans of Agatha Christie-style mysteries and contemporary thrillers, this is a solid and entertaining read. It’s not flawless, but the blend of gothic flair, creative twists, and self-aware storytelling makes it a fun escape for mystery enthusiasts.

Ian Rankin’s Midnight and Blue once again proves why he reigns supreme as the master of Scottish Noir. John Rebus finds himself in an unthinkable position—on the inside of a prison, surrounded by the very criminals he spent his life locking away.

The story’s premise—a locked-room murder in a prison—is a tantalizing puzzle that only Rankin could craft with such precision and depth. Every character, from inmates to guards, carries a shadowy secret, making the stakes impossibly high. Rebus, stripped of his badge and safety net, is more compelling than ever as he navigates treacherous alliances and dangerous enemies.

What’s particularly exciting is the expanded roles of Siobhan Clarke and Christine Essom. These characters add new dimensions to the narrative, hinting at a promising future for the franchise. Rankin skillfully balances the old and the new, maintaining the essence of Rebus while evolving the story in fresh and unexpected ways.

With its taut pacing, vivid descriptions of Edinburgh’s darker side, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the final page, Midnight and Blue is a tour de force. Rankin delivers another unforgettable chapter in the Rebus saga, proving that old habits—and legendary detectives—truly die hard. An absolute must-read for fans and newcomers alike!

Tim Sullivan delivers another cleverly crafted and immensely engaging police procedural in The Bookseller. The story kicks off with the murder of a Bristol bookseller, plunging readers into a world of rivalry and dishonesty within the book trade. Sullivan expertly weaves layers of misdirection into the narrative, keeping the twists subtle yet gripping, and leaving readers constantly second-guessing.

Detective George Cross once again proves to be an outstanding lead character. His autism, paired with his unwavering dedication to logic and detail, makes him a truly unique and compelling protagonist. Sullivan portrays Cross with such depth and authenticity that it’s impossible not to feel a growing sense of fondness for him as the series progresses.

The supporting characters are equally engaging, adding richness and texture to the narrative. Sullivan’s ability to breathe life into even the minor players ensures that the story feels authentic and immersive.

For fans of the Cross series, The Bookseller is another triumph. Sullivan’s blend of intelligent plotting, emotional resonance, and keen observational detail has solidified this series as a firm favorite of mine. If you’re new to George Cross, this book is a perfect starting point (but starting at the beginning is even better)—and it’s guaranteed to leave you eager for more. Highly recommended!

Unputdownable Spy Thriller with Depth, Danger, and Unforgettable Twists

Henry Porter’s The Enigma Girl is a masterful blend of high-stakes intrigue and social commentary, cementing his reputation as a top-tier thriller writer.

Slim Parsons, the novel’s flawed protagonist, is all but burned. Her last undercover operation ended in chaos, with a life-and-death fight aboard a private jet that left her running from both her dangerous target and her superiors at MI5. Labeled as violent and borderline rogue, Slim’s career appears to be in tatters.

But when she’s asked to infiltrate a mysterious news site near Bletchley Park—a team descended from WWII codebreakers—she seizes the opportunity, bargaining for help in finding her missing brother. What seems like a career-ending demotion spirals into something far more dangerous: Operation Linesman intertwines with her haunted past, exposing corruption in the highest circles of government and MI5 itself. The tension builds to a heart-stopping crescendo as her former target resurfaces, threatening not only her mission but MI5’s very foundations.

Porter’s prose weaves Slim’s personal struggles seamlessly into a tightly plotted narrative of modern espionage. The exploration of systemic corruption, modern slavery, and the moral compromises of intelligence work adds depth, making this more than just a spy novel.

With its unpredictable twists, deeply human protagonist, and relentless pace, The Enigma Girl is utterly unputdownable. This is smart, socially conscious thriller writing at its finest—perfect for fans of espionage fiction with heart and bite. Highly recommended!

Michael Connelly once again proves why he’s one of the best crime writers in the business with The Waiting. This novel keeps you hooked from start to finish, blending sharp storytelling with fast-paced, intelligent crime-solving.

The spotlight falls on Ballard, Bosch, and Bosch’s daughter Maddie, creating a dynamic and compelling trio. The dual plot is masterfully crafted: an open-case review of a serial rapist intertwines seamlessly with Ballard’s accidental discovery of a terrorist cell plotting a catastrophic attack. The stakes are high, and Connelly keeps the tension tight, making it impossible to put the book down.

Connelly’s attention to detail and deep understanding of his characters shine through, particularly in Maddie’s development and the chemistry she shares with Ballard. It’s a thrill to see the next generation stepping up while still honoring the legacy of Bosch.

A smart, fast-paced crime novel that reminds us why Connelly’s name is synonymous with excellence in the genre. Highly recommended for both longtime fans and newcomers!

“A Very Bad Thing” by J.T. Ellison is a decent thriller with an intriguing premise and plenty of twists to keep readers engaged. However, the plot often feels farfetched and stretches credibility, which can make it difficult to fully immerse yourself in the story.

While the writing is sharp and the pacing brisk, the characters occasionally lack depth, and some of the twists feel more contrived than clever. The book has echoes of a modern-day Agatha Christie, but it doesn’t quite capture the same finesse or polish.

Overall, it’s an entertaining read for fans of the genre, but it falls short of being truly memorable or groundbreaking.

J.D. Redvale’s The Quantum Grail is a gripping rollercoaster ride that blends cutting-edge technology with relentless action. The story follows John Mitcham, a determined ex-Navy SEAL, and Nia Banks, a brilliant super-hacker, as they team up to rescue John’s kidnapped wife and prevent a devastating global threat.

The plot is packed with twists and turns that keep you guessing, and the unexpected ending delivers a satisfying punch. Redvale excels at crafting high-stakes scenarios and intense action sequences, making this book a true page-turner. The Quantum Grail is an exhilarating read that fans of techno-thrillers will love.

This story feels like it was made for the big screen, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it adapted into a blockbuster film. If you’re looking for a fast, engaging read with plenty of surprises, this one’s for you!

Review of Old Soul by Susan Barker
Susan Barker’s Old Soul is a dive into the dark and chilling world of a 200-year-old predator who feeds a tyrannical force. From the first page, Barker captures the reader with an eerie, foreboding tone that grips you and refuses to let go.

The story weaves through layers of mystery, each plot shift unraveling secrets that deepen the sense of unease. The protagonist’s morally ambiguous existence creates a fascinating tension, pulling readers into their internal conflict .

Barker’s prose is hauntingly poetic, painting vivid images of shadowy landscapes and sinister forces. The pacing is deliberate but never drags, allowing the mystery to build with each chapter. The plot twists are brilliantly executed, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. And what an ending it is—completely somewhat unexpected, yet it ties the narrative together with a chilling sense of inevitability.

Old Soul is a dark, mysterious, and unforgettable tale that lingers in the mind long after the last page.