Blog Archives
Buried Bones
Buried Bones is a slow-burn mystery wrapped in emotional complexity and carried by a deeply human cast of characters. It follows Maggie Anderson, a retired prosecutor who stumbles into the murder case of Audrey Stillman in a small Utah town. When the victim’s ex-husband, Ben, is immediately seen as the likely killer by locals, Maggie is pulled into a vigilante-charged atmosphere that drags her back to her prosecutorial past—and her ghosts. As she digs deeper, with a small, tight-knit investigative team, what unfolds is not just a whodunit but a layered tale of justice, loss, love, and second chances.
What I loved most about this book was Maggie herself. She’s 75, sharp, wounded, and resilient in a way that doesn’t feel performative or glamorized. The writing lets her age show—not in weakness, but in wisdom. When she confronts the vigilante threats against Ben in the opening diner scene, I felt her pulse pounding as mine did. That moment set the tone: this is a mystery where justice is messy and personal, not clean-cut or formulaic. I especially appreciated how Moore doesn’t just give Maggie a case to solve—she gives her something to heal. That backstory about the wrongly accused Trevor broke me. It’s one of the rawest, most emotional moments I’ve read in a mystery novel in a long time.
I also found the writing charmingly old-school in a way that works for this story. The pacing is deliberate—some might call it slow, but for me, it mirrored the dusty, insular Utah setting perfectly. There’s a quiet beauty to how Moore describes Maggie’s time at the cabin with Robert, Gwen, and Peter. The lavender garden behind the cabin where Audrey’s body was found sticks in my mind—it was eerie, yes, but also strangely peaceful. And then there’s the ghostlike vision Maggie has of Audrey in her old home—subtle, quick, and never overplayed. That scene gave me chills. Moore walks a fine line between realism and something just a little more haunting, and she does it well.
In early exposition scenes characters sometimes explain themselves a bit too neatly. And while I enjoyed the romantic undercurrent between Maggie and Robert, it leaned a little Hallmark for me at times. Still, the emotional honesty always pulled it back. When Maggie finally lets herself be vulnerable with Robert after sharing her past failures, I teared up. It felt earned. Real. Not just romance for the sake of it, but something deeper—companionship that comes from surviving life’s worst parts and still choosing connection.
Buried Bones isn’t just a mystery—it’s a story about reclaiming faith in yourself when you’re not sure you deserve it. It’s for readers who want their crime fiction to have heart, for people who don’t need nonstop action but crave characters who feel like real people. If you liked Louise Penny or early Sue Grafton, or if you’ve ever wanted to see what happens when justice is served by someone who’s lost faith in the system, then this book is for you. I’m so glad I read it.
Pages: 428 | ASIN : B0F2SHXVV4
The Tangled Mane
Charlie Tyler’s The Tangled Mane is a tangled web of mystery, trauma, and resilience, bouncing between two timelines to tell the interconnected stories of Mikey and Cally. Mikey’s childhood is one of neglect, hunger, and a deep, unwavering bond with his sister, Lucy. Their lives are spent navigating the bleak reality of Hazelton Towers, dreaming of escape, and finding solace in small kindnesses, a tattered copy of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a stolen moment with a caged lion they call Aslan, or the rare indulgence of a cheap hotdog. In the present, Cally is an undercover investigator at an elite country club, caught up in a case of theft that takes a dark turn when a wealthy bride-to-be is found dead in her bathtub. As these two stories unfold, the past and present inch closer together, revealing long-buried secrets and shocking connections.
Mikey’s chapters, set in 2004, broke my heart. His voice is a mixture of innocence and desperation, a kid who finds magic in the smallest things while surviving a childhood no one should have to endure. Lucy, his older sister, is his rock and his protector, and their dynamic is beautifully written. Tyler doesn’t sugarcoat their reality, the grimy flat, the mother who cares more about drugs than her kids, the men who come and go. And then there’s Aslan, the lion in a cage, who mirrors Mikey’s own trapped existence. Every time Mikey sneaks him scraps of food or strokes his matted mane through the bars, I found myself hoping against hope that this boy would one day escape his own cage.
On the other hand, Cally’s chapters felt like stepping into a different world. If Mikey’s life is about survival, Cally’s is about intrigue. Her job at The Phoenix, a club catering to the rich and powerful, seems glamorous on the surface, but beneath the expensive champagne and designer suits, something sinister lurks. The death of Luella, the spoiled influencer-bride, is chilling, and Cally’s sharp, no-nonsense attitude makes her an engaging protagonist. I loved her banter with Dan, her detective fiancé, even when he annoyed her (which was often). And the little details like her regrettable pixie cut and her deep-seated love for hot chocolate made her feel like someone I could be friends with.
What ties this novel together is the way the past and present slowly converge. Tyler drops breadcrumbs throughout the story, each clue tightening the tension. By the time I started seeing how Mikey and Cally’s lives might be linked, I was flipping pages at lightning speed. And the final reveal? Gut-wrenching. The book makes you question how much of our past defines our future, how trauma shapes us, and whether escape is ever truly possible. It’s dark, yes, but it’s also about love, the love between siblings, the bonds we make in the unlikeliest places, and the quiet hope that even in the worst circumstances, there’s still a way out.
I’d recommend The Tangled Mane to anyone who loves a gripping mystery with deep emotional stakes. If you’re into crime thrillers with heart, this one’s for you. It’s not a light read, it hits hard and lingers long after the final page but that’s what makes it brilliant.
Pages: 274 | ASIN : B0DP1886LH
Murder in Monte Carlo
Kathryn Lane’s Murder in Monte Carlo delivers an electrifying blend of intrigue, adventure, and high-stakes sleuthing. At its center is Nikki Garcia, a sharp and resourceful private investigator, whose latest mission draws her into a thrilling chase across international waters. Partnering with her husband, Eduardo, Nikki aims to track down a mastermind behind a series of audacious art thefts. The couple’s pursuit of justice is intertwined with the allure of a luxury cruise, balancing intense investigative work with moments of opulence and leisure. What begins as a seemingly straightforward investigation swiftly unravels into a labyrinth of deception. The case grows more intricate with each discovery, leading Nikki and Eduardo through a whirlwind of surprises and perilous encounters. Lane masterfully keeps readers on edge, weaving a narrative rich with unexpected twists and escalating stakes.
This sixth installment in the Nikki Garcia series stands firmly on its own, making it accessible to both newcomers and long-time fans. Lane’s talent for crafting compelling mysteries shines brightly here, blending a fast-paced plot with the charm of European settings. Her descriptive prose vividly captures the grandeur and mystique of the locations, immersing readers in a world of sophistication and danger.
One of the book’s standout elements is Lane’s evident passion for art, which adds authenticity and depth to the story. The art thefts central to the plot are more than just a narrative device; they are enriched by Lane’s detailed knowledge, enhancing the tension and stakes. Despite its many strengths, Murder in Monte Carlo leaves some room for improvement. I feel that the rapid pacing, while exhilarating, somewhat limits the opportunity for character development. Nikki and Eduardo’s personalities are intriguing but feel underexplored. I believe more nuanced backstories or emotional depth could have elevated the narrative, allowing readers to connect more deeply with the protagonists.
Murder in Monte Carlo is a dynamic and engaging addition to the cozy mystery genre. Its clever plot, vibrant settings, and gripping twists ensure it is a page-turner from start to finish. Lane’s storytelling prowess leaves readers eager to see where Nikki Garcia’s adventures will lead next.
Pages: 294 | ASIN : B0DJCH3WQ1
Killing Buddhas
Craig Allen Heath’s Killing Buddhas is a philosophical mystery that blends small-town drama with existential intrigue. Set in the eccentric town of Eden Ridge, the novel introduces a cast of flawed, layered characters navigating their personal struggles amidst a backdrop of suspense. From the troubled pastor Alan Wright to the enigmatic philosopher Branden Frank, each figure contributes to a narrative that keeps readers guessing.
Alan Wright, the local pastor, is a man at war with himself. His hidden past and struggle with faith, loss, and the weight of leadership make him a deeply human character. Many readers will see reflections of their own internal battles in his journey. Branden Frank, the philosopher with magnetic charm, exudes an allure that captivates the town, yet an undercurrent of arrogance and emotional detachment leaves a lingering unease. Heath skillfully crafts him as both fascinating and unsettling, keeping readers intrigued by his contradictions. Zack Featherstone, a teenager ensnared by family secrets, embodies the universal search for identity and purpose. His confusion and aspirations make him relatable, a character who feels both real and poignant.
Heath’s strength lies in giving his characters moments of raw vulnerability and unexpected resilience, though at times the reader might yearn for deeper psychological exploration. I feel the dialogue, while often thought-provoking, occasionally veers into territory that feels somewhat overly crafted, pulling the reader out of the flow. However, the camaraderie among the amateur sleuths known as the Little Red Hens offers genuine, refreshing moments of connection. Their interactions bring warmth and levity, balancing the novel’s heavier themes. The ending leaves some threads unresolved, inviting contemplation but potentially frustrating readers who crave definitive closure. Yet this ambiguity aligns with the book’s philosophical undertones, challenging readers to grapple with their own interpretations.
Killing Buddhas captures the imperfections of humanity through its complex characters and unpredictable plot. It’s a story about faith, identity, and the messy beauty of being human. For those who appreciate nuanced storytelling with a touch of mystery and a dash of philosophy, this book is a thought-provoking read that lingers long after the final page.
Pages: 392 | ASIN : B0DK7X3ZHL
A Perilous Premiere
Gail Meath’s Perilous Premiere masterfully captures the glitz and grit of the 1930s Hollywood film industry, blending a spellbinding murder mystery with a rich historical backdrop. The story begins with a heart-stopping tragedy: Vivian, a fashion designer and boutique owner, witnesses her husband’s shocking murder just days before their first anniversary. Six months later, as she finally starts to believe justice has been served, fresh evidence shatters her fragile peace, revealing that the real killer still roams free. Determined to find the truth, Vivian follows a trail of elusive leads. As shocking revelations come to light, Vivian uncovers her husband’s shadowy secrets, including a link to a set of stolen, highly coveted coins that have painted a target on her back. Now, ruthless killers will stop at nothing to retrieve the coins.
Meath’s narrative flows with relentless pace and captivating tension. Her portrayal of 1930s Hollywood is vibrant yet sinister, highlighting the industry’s glamorous facade and the murky underbelly of power and deception. The plot, intricately woven and fast-moving, grips the reader from start to finish. While I believe the character development could have been more nuanced, it does not detract from the novel’s intense and thrilling storyline. Vivian and Preston’s evolving dynamic leaves much to anticipate in future installments, and there is plenty of promise for richer character arcs in upcoming books.
Meath deftly weaves historical facts into the fiction, making the story both enlightening and immersive. Her commitment to historical accuracy is underscored in a thoughtful disclaimer, enhancing the novel’s appeal to history enthusiasts.
Perilous Premiere is a dazzling opening to the Stone & Steel Mystery series, offering a thrilling dive into a bygone era brimming with suspense, secrets, and high-stakes drama.
Pages: 200 | ASIN : B0CZS3J93M
Animal Traffickers
Cans of Cola Just Don’t Cry follows a writer living in the Florida Keys who is researching a cold case from her childhood when she discovers a baby chimpanzee locked in a crate on her dock. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
The setting had to be somewhere on the water, a place where a boat could drop off a delivery, so I chose the Florida Keys, which are beautiful. The main character has just bought a house that was idle for several years. She doesn’t know her dock has been used as a drop-off point for animal traffickers. Ha, surprise, surprise!
I enjoyed the depth of the main character, Nola. What was your process to bring that character to life?
That was easy. Nola is a lot like me. She’s intrigued by a cold case from her past, where she witnessed some very suspicious behavior from one of her neighbors. He was in it up to his neck. I once saw some very unusual activities, possibly criminal, though probably not, taking place as I rode past the home of one of my family’s acquaintances, so I know what it’s like to have a strange situation kind of take hold of you and not really let you go. It’s always fun to wonder just what the heck was going on there!
I found the title of this book interesting and not at all what I was expecting for a cozy mystery. How did you decide on the title of this novel?
The title just came to me one day after I saw a documentary on how animal traffickers smuggle these poor baby chimpanzees in crates. It showed this tiny, tiny creature, crawling around and making little “eek eek” noises like it was crying or whimpering. I thought, what if the box with the chimp is left in the wrong place, for the wrong person to find, and she hears it crying? That’s when it came to me: Cans of Cola Just Don’t Cry!
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’ve got two more books in the works at the moment, both cozy mysteries. Well, maybe one of them is a little less cozy than the other. One is set during World War II in my parents’ old hometown, Elizabeth, New Jersey. The other I actually just started writing just this afternoon. I’m not sure where I’ll set it yet, but it’s going to involve a murder at a wedding and a lot of wacky relatives.
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Who is responsible for smuggling the poor chimp into Florida? How will these elusive criminals get caught? And on top of all else, can Nola solve that old cold case from when she was a kid that’s been haunting her for fifty solid years?
Robin’s Way
Robin’s Way offers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative centered on 28-year-old Reverend Robin Topham. As a female clergy member in contemporary UK society, Robin faces a maze of challenges that push her to the limits of her faith and personal values. With courage and determination, she defies scrutiny from those who question her evolving sexuality while dedicating herself to the perilous mission of helping women trapped in human trafficking. Robin’s unwavering resolve drives her to risk her own safety time and again, fiercely protecting and rescuing those in need. At the same time, she navigates the internal struggles of maintaining celibacy and virtue, adding a deeply human layer to her complex character.
Kate Robins and Artemis Taylor have penned an eye-opening story. It sheds light on the double standards imposed on women and the unique struggles faced by queer individuals, especially when intersected with religious expectations. The authors don’t shy away from hard truths, providing a critical lens on the societal norms that still challenge gender and sexual identity today.
The writing is exceptional and gripped me from the first page. The narrative dives deep into Robin’s world, blending action with introspection. I initially anticipated the book would delve more extensively into the harrowing stories of the women Robin is dedicated to saving from human trafficking. While these themes are present, they often take a backseat to Robin’s journey of self-discovery and sexual identity. The focus on this exploration is both meaningful and essential but, at times, I think it felt overemphasized. I felt the intensity of these discussions overshadowed other aspects of the story, though that could come down to personal preference.
The characters are brilliantly crafted. Robin Topham stands out as an intelligent, perceptive, and fiercely determined protagonist. Her resilience and willingness to confront her inner turmoil make her both admirable and relatable. The supporting cast adds vibrancy to the narrative with each character uniquely contributing to Robin’s world and her ongoing struggles.
The novel ends with an excellent setup for future books, and I’m already eager to follow Robin’s continuing journey. The groundwork for further installments is laid beautifully, and I’m curious to see the challenges she will face next and the strength she will draw upon. Robin’s Way is a thought-provoking and well-crafted story that leaves readers invested in Robin’s path and eager for more.
Pages: 342 | ASIN : B0DJ1R17HM
Starving For Some Excitement
The Devil’s Den—A Phoenix Thriller Vol. 1 follows a young woman looking for a fresh start in New York who gets herself into danger with a serial killer as she seeks revenge for her missing roommate. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I’m an avid reader whose favorite genres are mysteries and thrillers. However, after a while, the concepts and plots of the books I read became redundant. I started craving for something new and realized I couldn’t have been the only one who felt this way. After fantasizing about the kind of story I’d love to read, I grabbed my laptop and started writing it instead.
Phoenix is a complex character who keeps readers in suspense, unable to anticipate her next move. What inspired the main character’s traits and dialogue?
Phoenix’s character is a fusion of some of my favorite heroines – fictional and literal. She needed to be fiery and fearless, but also vulnerable. She needed to be extraordinary in some traits yet fractured in others so as to connect with the reader. These qualities often reveal themselves in her internal dialogue, as well as her external dialogue. Phoenix’s attributes are what makes her, and other heroines, unforgettable.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Starving for some excitement, I wanted this novel to explore two themes I felt I hadn’t come across in a while: the fine line between madness and genius, and the price of revenge. However, I am curious to know if the readers’ interpretations of the book’s themes differ from what I intended.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
This is most certainly the beginning of a greater story. The next novel will be released in early-to-mid 2025. I intend for this particular series to be a trilogy; however, throughout my creative process, the number of books this series has could change. Nonetheless, the readers can expect major character development and shocking revelations. As they continue this journey with me, they’ll be grinding their teeth and ceaselessly turning the pages.
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LITERARY TITAN 