Portrait of a Thief by Grace D. Li combines literary fiction with the beloved heist genre in a story of five college students who plan to steal back Chinese art from western museums. I found the book’s premise and anti-colonial messaging engaging, but I had some issues with the one-dimensional characters and the lack of excitement to the heist itself. The execution may not have lived up to my expectations, but this is still a clever read that tackles some important topics. Continue reading
The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain is an interesting mix of thriller and historical fiction that will both terrify you and give you pause. The book has dual timelines and narrators, which work well together to keep the story moving. This is an enjoyable and enlightening novel that will evoke many emotions. Continue reading
How to Hang a Witch by Adriana Mather is an atmospheric duology that I struggled to put down. Inspired by the author’s own family history, this series puts a modern spin on the Salem Witch Trials and the Titanic. The investigative elements in both books build suspense, and I found the main character easy to root for. I was especially impressed with the author’s skill in integrating the past and the present, making this a great series for fans of both contemporary and historical fiction. Continue reading
The Girl Who Knew Too Much by Tiffany Brooks is a treasure hunt with a twist. Depicting a reality show set on a deserted island that is rumoured to hold buried treasure, this one contains drama and a main character who is determined to reinvent herself. I especially enjoyed reading about the show’s entertaining challenges and the mysterious treasure markers. This is a unique contemporary that is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. Continue reading
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty is a dramatic mystery about a dysfunctional family that will keep you guessing. There are quite a few interesting themes throughout the book and the main character is lots of fun to read about. This is a perfect audiobook for those who love drama and a little mystery as well. Continue reading