I compiled a list of the most captivating 2023 book releases that personally caught my attention. As usual, the majority of these books fall into the genres of mysteries, thrillers, and some speculative fiction, making them a must-read for enthusiasts of these genres.
Before diving into the details, I feel compelled to draw attention to my selection of books with the most stunning cover art. The earthy tones and exquisite flower illustrations featured on these four books truly resonate with my personal aesthetic preferences.
Now, let's explore the sequels that have piqued my interest the most. Having enjoyed the first installments especially the Rivers of London series and Rachel Krall series, I am eagerly anticipating their continuations.
In this enchanting tale, illustrations from a mysterious book of fairy tales drawn in the late 1800s come to life, wreaking havoc in the modern era. These illustrations were originally painted by the elusive Victorian artist Jeter Day, who vanished into an enchanted forest after being spirited away by tree nymphs. Now, the spell has been unintentionally broken by Olympia and Chelsea, the daughters of the river goddess Mama Thames. Jeter, twisted by his time with the nymphs, returns to our world filled with bitterness and resentment, yearning to reclaim his lost life. With Peter and Nightingale occupied with another case, it falls upon sisters Olympia and Chelsea, aided by the Foxes, to confront Jeter and save the day from his vengeful wrath.
When retired FBI Agent Patrick Henderson reports an incident using the code phrase ‘X-Ray Sierra India’, the operator is baffled. The message is passed up the chain until it reaches FBI Special Agent Kimberley Reynolds, who ventures into the snowbound Northern Wisconsin. Upon arrival, she discovers a devastated town flattened by a tornado, with no trace of Henderson. As the situation becomes increasingly bizarre, with strange sightings, missing evidence, and escalating snowfall cutting off the town, Reynolds unravels a chilling mystery. Following the clues, she delves into a cursed expedition into the frozen wilderness, tracing the origins of an American nightmare that continues to haunt the present day.
Within the walls of a seaside manor, a curse still lingers, haunting the life of one sister. Despite yearning for adventure beyond the shores of Salann, seventeen-year-old Verity Thaumas remains trapped at Highmoor Estate with her older sister, Camille. When their sister Mercy brings news that the Duchess of Bloem seeks Verity's artistic talent to paint a portrait of her son, Alexander, Verity seizes the opportunity. However, Camille forbids it, forcing Verity to confront a long-held secret: she can still see ghosts, unbeknownst to herself. Overwhelmed, Verity flees Highmoor and finds herself in Bloem, where she becomes enchanted by the enchanting landscape and the charismatic Alexander Laurent. As a blossoming romance takes hold, Verity's dreams turn into nightmares, revealing the sinister underbelly that lurks beneath Bloem's deceptively charming facade.
Author and single mom Finlay Donovan finds herself in yet another mess. While saving her ex-husband's life, she accidentally destroys a luxury car that belongs to the Russian mob, who graciously purchase it for her. However, this act of kindness comes with a price—Finlay now owes them a favor. The incarcerated mob boss, Feliks, tasks Finlay with the mission of identifying a contract killer before the police do, and the killer may be a law enforcement officer. With the pressure of a looming book deadline and Feliks' influence, Finlay and her partner-in-crime, Vero, decide to get involved by joining a citizen's police academy led by the attractive cop Nick. As they undergo firearm training and forensic classes, the duo uses their time at the academy to uncover the true identity of the contract killer, aiming to free themselves from the clutches of the mob. Along the way, they must navigate spies, confront Vero's past, and balance the challenges of parenthood.
More than four decades after readers were introduced to Nancy and her children, a thrilling sequel unfolds. Melissa, a lawyer turned successful podcaster, finds herself married to a man who tragically lost his first wife, leaving him and their young daughter, Riley, behind. As Melissa and her brother, Mike, help their mother, Nancy, relocate to the picturesque Hamptons, a new crisis arises when Melissa's stepdaughter goes missing. Drawing on their own past abduction experience, Melissa and Mike are propelled into a race against time to find Riley and protect her from the same trauma they still carry with them—or something even worse.
As Terence Bailey's release from prison for breaking and entering draws near, suspicion looms over him for the murders of six women. Unexpectedly, hot young influencer Maddison Logan pays him a visit, only to vanish hours later. The police fear she's been kidnapped, and they turn to Rachel Krall, a true crime podcaster, for help in finding the missing influencer. With little to go on, Rachel goes undercover at a popular influencer conference, BuzzCon, where she uncovers a world of fierce rivalry that might have turned deadly. As the investigation deepens, the FBI discovers the possibility of an accomplice to Bailey, and Rachel finds herself a target of a dangerous obsession.
In the elegant world of the Regency Grand Hotel, Molly Gray stands out as the esteemed Head Maid, renowned for her impeccable cleaning skills and proper etiquette. However, her picture-perfect life takes a dark turn when the world-famous mystery author, J.D. Grimthorpe, is found dead on the hotel's tea room floor. As Detective Stark investigates the murder, suspicions abound, and Molly's past connections with Grimthorpe come into question. With the hotel's reputation on the line, Molly is determined to unearth the killer's identity. The secrets of her childhood and the enigmatic Grimthorpe mansion intertwine, and Molly must race against time to solve the chilling murder mystery that threatens to expose the Regency Grand's hidden shadows.
Below, I present my priority reads among the books published in 2023.
When Amanda Bailey, a true-crime author, stumbles upon a safe deposit box containing research material for her next book, she uncovers the shocking story of the Alperton Angels, a cult-like group involved in a chilling plot. As Amanda and rival author Oliver Menzies search for the truth behind the Angels' dark deeds, they must confront a reality far more sinister than anyone ever imagined. The quest for the long-lost Alperton baby will take them on a suspenseful journey with unexpected turns, revealing a story that will challenge everything they thought they knew. Prepare for a thrilling ride with no easy answers and a gripping finale.
In Episode Thirteen of the hit reality TV show Fade to Black, husband and wife team Matt and Claire Kirklin lead their expert ghost hunting crew to the infamous Paranormal Research Foundation. Armed with cutting-edge equipment, they aim to uncover the mansion's haunting secrets and prove the existence of the afterlife. However, as they delve deeper into the dark history of the mansion and its eerie experiments, they realize that their scientific quest might have dire consequences. Told through fragments of tapes, journals, and correspondence, this gripping story unveils the chilling events that unfolded during Episode Thirteen, leaving the team in a horrifying reality they never expected.
In Clifford Island, Willow Stone embarks on a haunting journey to unravel the mystery behind her son's enigmatic connection to the eerie island. As she arrives on Clifford, she discovers a peculiar community "trapped" in 1994, adhering to strange rules and fixations. The island holds chilling secrets, and Willow's quest for answers becomes entwined with the rebellious high schooler, Lily Becker, who seeks to expose the islanders' beliefs as a facade. When Willow suddenly disappears, her brother Harper arrives to unveil the sinister truth behind Clifford's enigmatic allure, risking everything to expose the island's darkest secrets and escape with his life.
Roach's life at the Spines bookstore takes a thrilling turn when Laura, a fascinating children's bookseller, joins the team. Roach, a dedicated true crime enthusiast, is captivated by Laura's enigmatic personality. However, Laura keeps her distance, leading Roach to dig deeper into her colleague's past, unveiling a traumatic family history. As Roach's obsession intensifies, she begins to suspect that she stumbled upon her very own true crime story. The lines between curiosity and danger blur, and Roach must navigate a treacherous path to uncover the truth, finding herself entangled in a real-life mystery she never anticipated.
When Sam Montgomery visits her mother's house in North Carolina, she senses something unsettling. The once cozy and cluttered home has transformed into an eerie and sterile place. Her mother's paranoia and strange behavior raise concerns, and Sam discovers unsettling clues, including a jar of teeth and circling vultures in the garden. Determined to uncover the truth, Sam embarks on a journey that unearths long-buried secrets, but she soon realizes that some secrets should remain buried. With atmospheric prose and a chilling atmosphere, this suspenseful novel will keep readers captivated until the final, spine-tingling revelation.
Six aspiring bakers have the opportunity of a lifetime as they compete in Bake Week at the prestigious Grafton Manor. The contestants are determined to win the coveted Golden Spoon, but for Betsy Martin, the beloved host of the show, the competition holds even more significance. Grafton Manor is her family's legacy, and Bake Week is her life's passion. However, as the competition progresses, mysterious acts of sabotage occur, escalating into a sinister turn when a body is found. With the ultimate prize at stake, it becomes evident that one contestant is willing to resort to murder in pursuit of The Golden Spoon.
Five aspiring writers are chosen for a prestigious writing retreat hosted by the enigmatic Roza Vallo, a renowned feminist horror author. Among them is Alex, a struggling writer eager for a chance to revive her career. Excitement turns to fear as the group realizes they must complete an entire novel during their stay, with the winner receiving a life-changing publishing deal. However, their dreams quickly turn into a nightmare as the women start dying one by one. Trapped and terrified, Alex must confront her own demons and finish her novel if she hopes to survive the deadly retreat at Blackbriar Estate.
Mike Brink is a puzzle constructor with acquired savant syndrome, granting him unparalleled puzzle-solving abilities. His isolated world changes when he meets Jess Price, a woman imprisoned for murder and silent since her arrest. When Price presents a mysterious puzzle, Brink's fascination turns into an obsession with unraveling the truth behind her silence. As the quest unfolds, Brink delves into a web of enigmas, including the ancient God Puzzle, leading him through prisons, historical cities, and hidden libraries. But as powerful forces come into play, Brink realizes that the stakes are higher than he ever imagined, and the future of humanity itself hangs in the balance. This tantalizing, addictive thriller explores the connections between humankind, technology, and the mysteries of the universe.
Claire's worst nightmares become reality when she arrives at an isolated summer camp to find it destroyed and devoid of survivors, except for herself and two other latecomers, Reyva and Mariana. As they stumble upon a lifeless body in the woods, they come to a chilling realization: they are being hunted. Something sinister lurks in the shadows, refusing to let them escape. Now, Claire and her companions must confront their deepest fears and fight to survive in a gripping tale of suspense and terror.
Magnolia, a nineteen-year-old facing financial struggles and the haunting memories of her past, is offered a life-changing opportunity by a mysterious stranger named Cotton. He promises her a lucrative job at his family's funeral home, which seems like the answer to her problems. However, as Magnolia delves deeper into Cotton's world, she realizes that there's more to this arrangement than meets the eye. This sharp social commentary sheds light on the aftermath of the American plantation and the challenges of being a poor, Black woman in the conservative southern society, delivering a compelling tale of survival, strength, and the pursuit of a better life.
In the comfort of her apartment, twenty-six-year-old Rory leads a secluded life, finding solace in her work at her aunt's PI business and in observing the homeless men across the road, whom she endows with imagined histories. With only her loyal dog Buster for company, she cherishes the quiet nights on the rooftop, contemplating the stars. However, when one of the homeless men is murdered on the night before New Year's Eve, Rory's sanctuary is shattered, and her life takes an unexpected turn. As police investigations, new neighbors, haunting memories from her past, and new possibilities collide, Rory is faced with a critical decision: to remain locked away in her safe haven or confront the dangers lurking beyond her front door.
Meet sixty-year-old Vera Wong, an enthusiastic tea connoisseur who finds joy in savoring a delightful cup of Wulong while discreetly investigating her son's love life on the internet. However, her peaceful routine takes a dramatic turn when she wakes up to discover a dead body in her beloved tea shop. With a determination stronger than a robust Longjing brew, Vera takes it upon herself to unravel the mystery behind the murder, convinced she can do a better job than the police. Armed with her keen instincts and a mother's intuition, she sets out to catch the culprit, for nobody uncovers secrets quite like a resourceful Chinese mother with time on her hands. Brace yourself for a delightful tale of mystery and humor as this amateur sleuth spills the tea in her pursuit of justice.
Set in 1983, Kit McDeere takes on the role of a home-health aide at the decaying Hope's End to care for Lenora, an elderly woman left mute by a series of strokes. Lenora communicates through an old typewriter, and one night, she makes a startling offer—to reveal everything. As Kit delves into the past, assisting Lenora in recounting the events leading to the Hope family massacre, it becomes evident that there are hidden layers to the story. However, as new revelations about her predecessor's abrupt departure surface, Kit begins to question Lenora's honesty and the true nature of the seemingly harmless woman she cares for. Unravel the chilling secrets in this gripping tale, where the line between trust and danger blurs, leaving Kit to navigate the dark truths within the walls of Hope's End.
In a 1920s-themed party at Ashwood Manor, seven friends indulge in the glitz and glamour until the night takes a chilling turn when Kassidy's boyfriend is found murdered. Izzy Morales, along with her friends, becomes a prime suspect in the investigation. As tensions rise, secrets unravel, and trust is put to the test, everyone must endure intense interrogations to uncover the truth behind the deadly game. Locked in the estate, innocence becomes the most coveted luxury, and the killer's identity must be revealed before it's too late. Step into this suspenseful whodunit, where the line between friends and foes blurs, and each clue brings them closer to the shocking truth.
This ia a captivating novel that intertwines the lives of three extraordinary women spanning five centuries. In 2019, Kate seeks refuge in Weyward Cottage, escaping an abusive partner and uncovering a hidden secret from her great aunt's past, tied to the witch-hunts of the 17th century. Altha, in 1619, faces trial for a murder she didn't commit, using her unique magical knowledge to fight for her freedom. Meanwhile, during World War II in 1942, Violet longs for a better life and yearns to understand her mother's mysterious past. Through rich storytelling and the transformative power of nature, Emilia Hart weaves a tale of female resilience, connecting the lives of these women in a mesmerizing narrative.
Lou, a happily married mother, finds herself in a chilling predicament. She was once the victim of a local serial killer but has miraculously been brought back to life through a government project. As she adjusts to her old life and connects with other female victims, she becomes haunted by questions surrounding her death and the trustworthiness of those around her. While she tries to care for her child, love her husband, and maintain her job, Lou must also unravel the mysteries surrounding her own murder. With dark humor, a gripping pace, and unexpected twists, "My Murder" offers a unique and thrilling take on the classic thriller genre.
Whew. That was a lot!
Before diving into the details, I feel compelled to draw attention to my selection of books with the most stunning cover art. The earthy tones and exquisite flower illustrations featured on these four books truly resonate with my personal aesthetic preferences.
Now, let's explore the sequels that have piqued my interest the most. Having enjoyed the first installments especially the Rivers of London series and Rachel Krall series, I am eagerly anticipating their continuations.
1. Deadly Ever After by Ben Aaronovitch
Release date, January 17, 2023In this enchanting tale, illustrations from a mysterious book of fairy tales drawn in the late 1800s come to life, wreaking havoc in the modern era. These illustrations were originally painted by the elusive Victorian artist Jeter Day, who vanished into an enchanted forest after being spirited away by tree nymphs. Now, the spell has been unintentionally broken by Olympia and Chelsea, the daughters of the river goddess Mama Thames. Jeter, twisted by his time with the nymphs, returns to our world filled with bitterness and resentment, yearning to reclaim his lost life. With Peter and Nightingale occupied with another case, it falls upon sisters Olympia and Chelsea, aided by the Foxes, to confront Jeter and save the day from his vengeful wrath.
2. Winter's Gifts by Ben Aaronovitch
Release date, June 8, 2023When retired FBI Agent Patrick Henderson reports an incident using the code phrase ‘X-Ray Sierra India’, the operator is baffled. The message is passed up the chain until it reaches FBI Special Agent Kimberley Reynolds, who ventures into the snowbound Northern Wisconsin. Upon arrival, she discovers a devastated town flattened by a tornado, with no trace of Henderson. As the situation becomes increasingly bizarre, with strange sightings, missing evidence, and escalating snowfall cutting off the town, Reynolds unravels a chilling mystery. Following the clues, she delves into a cursed expedition into the frozen wilderness, tracing the origins of an American nightmare that continues to haunt the present day.
3. House of Roots and Ruin by Erin A. Craig
Release date, July 25, 2023Within the walls of a seaside manor, a curse still lingers, haunting the life of one sister. Despite yearning for adventure beyond the shores of Salann, seventeen-year-old Verity Thaumas remains trapped at Highmoor Estate with her older sister, Camille. When their sister Mercy brings news that the Duchess of Bloem seeks Verity's artistic talent to paint a portrait of her son, Alexander, Verity seizes the opportunity. However, Camille forbids it, forcing Verity to confront a long-held secret: she can still see ghosts, unbeknownst to herself. Overwhelmed, Verity flees Highmoor and finds herself in Bloem, where she becomes enchanted by the enchanting landscape and the charismatic Alexander Laurent. As a blossoming romance takes hold, Verity's dreams turn into nightmares, revealing the sinister underbelly that lurks beneath Bloem's deceptively charming facade.
4. Finlay Donovan Jumps the Gun by Elle Cosimano
Release date, January 31, 2023Author and single mom Finlay Donovan finds herself in yet another mess. While saving her ex-husband's life, she accidentally destroys a luxury car that belongs to the Russian mob, who graciously purchase it for her. However, this act of kindness comes with a price—Finlay now owes them a favor. The incarcerated mob boss, Feliks, tasks Finlay with the mission of identifying a contract killer before the police do, and the killer may be a law enforcement officer. With the pressure of a looming book deadline and Feliks' influence, Finlay and her partner-in-crime, Vero, decide to get involved by joining a citizen's police academy led by the attractive cop Nick. As they undergo firearm training and forensic classes, the duo uses their time at the academy to uncover the true identity of the contract killer, aiming to free themselves from the clutches of the mob. Along the way, they must navigate spies, confront Vero's past, and balance the challenges of parenthood.
5. Where Are the Children Now? by Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke
Release date, April 18, 2023More than four decades after readers were introduced to Nancy and her children, a thrilling sequel unfolds. Melissa, a lawyer turned successful podcaster, finds herself married to a man who tragically lost his first wife, leaving him and their young daughter, Riley, behind. As Melissa and her brother, Mike, help their mother, Nancy, relocate to the picturesque Hamptons, a new crisis arises when Melissa's stepdaughter goes missing. Drawing on their own past abduction experience, Melissa and Mike are propelled into a race against time to find Riley and protect her from the same trauma they still carry with them—or something even worse.
6. Dark Corners by Megan Goldin
Release date, August 8, 2023As Terence Bailey's release from prison for breaking and entering draws near, suspicion looms over him for the murders of six women. Unexpectedly, hot young influencer Maddison Logan pays him a visit, only to vanish hours later. The police fear she's been kidnapped, and they turn to Rachel Krall, a true crime podcaster, for help in finding the missing influencer. With little to go on, Rachel goes undercover at a popular influencer conference, BuzzCon, where she uncovers a world of fierce rivalry that might have turned deadly. As the investigation deepens, the FBI discovers the possibility of an accomplice to Bailey, and Rachel finds herself a target of a dangerous obsession.
7. The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose
Release date, November 28, 2023In the elegant world of the Regency Grand Hotel, Molly Gray stands out as the esteemed Head Maid, renowned for her impeccable cleaning skills and proper etiquette. However, her picture-perfect life takes a dark turn when the world-famous mystery author, J.D. Grimthorpe, is found dead on the hotel's tea room floor. As Detective Stark investigates the murder, suspicions abound, and Molly's past connections with Grimthorpe come into question. With the hotel's reputation on the line, Molly is determined to unearth the killer's identity. The secrets of her childhood and the enigmatic Grimthorpe mansion intertwine, and Molly must race against time to solve the chilling murder mystery that threatens to expose the Regency Grand's hidden shadows.
Below, I present my priority reads among the books published in 2023.
8. The Mysterious Case of the Alperton Angels by Janice Hallett
Release date, January 19, 2023When Amanda Bailey, a true-crime author, stumbles upon a safe deposit box containing research material for her next book, she uncovers the shocking story of the Alperton Angels, a cult-like group involved in a chilling plot. As Amanda and rival author Oliver Menzies search for the truth behind the Angels' dark deeds, they must confront a reality far more sinister than anyone ever imagined. The quest for the long-lost Alperton baby will take them on a suspenseful journey with unexpected turns, revealing a story that will challenge everything they thought they knew. Prepare for a thrilling ride with no easy answers and a gripping finale.
9. Episode Thirteen by Craig DiLouie
Release date, January 24, 2023In Episode Thirteen of the hit reality TV show Fade to Black, husband and wife team Matt and Claire Kirklin lead their expert ghost hunting crew to the infamous Paranormal Research Foundation. Armed with cutting-edge equipment, they aim to uncover the mansion's haunting secrets and prove the existence of the afterlife. However, as they delve deeper into the dark history of the mansion and its eerie experiments, they realize that their scientific quest might have dire consequences. Told through fragments of tapes, journals, and correspondence, this gripping story unveils the chilling events that unfolded during Episode Thirteen, leaving the team in a horrifying reality they never expected.
10. Dead Eleven by Jimmy Juliano
Release date, January 24, 2023In Clifford Island, Willow Stone embarks on a haunting journey to unravel the mystery behind her son's enigmatic connection to the eerie island. As she arrives on Clifford, she discovers a peculiar community "trapped" in 1994, adhering to strange rules and fixations. The island holds chilling secrets, and Willow's quest for answers becomes entwined with the rebellious high schooler, Lily Becker, who seeks to expose the islanders' beliefs as a facade. When Willow suddenly disappears, her brother Harper arrives to unveil the sinister truth behind Clifford's enigmatic allure, risking everything to expose the island's darkest secrets and escape with his life.
11. Death of a Bookseller by Alice Slater
Release date, April 25, 2023Roach's life at the Spines bookstore takes a thrilling turn when Laura, a fascinating children's bookseller, joins the team. Roach, a dedicated true crime enthusiast, is captivated by Laura's enigmatic personality. However, Laura keeps her distance, leading Roach to dig deeper into her colleague's past, unveiling a traumatic family history. As Roach's obsession intensifies, she begins to suspect that she stumbled upon her very own true crime story. The lines between curiosity and danger blur, and Roach must navigate a treacherous path to uncover the truth, finding herself entangled in a real-life mystery she never anticipated.
12. A House with Good Bones by T. Kingfisher
Release date, March 28, 2023When Sam Montgomery visits her mother's house in North Carolina, she senses something unsettling. The once cozy and cluttered home has transformed into an eerie and sterile place. Her mother's paranoia and strange behavior raise concerns, and Sam discovers unsettling clues, including a jar of teeth and circling vultures in the garden. Determined to uncover the truth, Sam embarks on a journey that unearths long-buried secrets, but she soon realizes that some secrets should remain buried. With atmospheric prose and a chilling atmosphere, this suspenseful novel will keep readers captivated until the final, spine-tingling revelation.
13. The Golden Spoon by Jessa Maxwell
Release date, March 7, 2023Six aspiring bakers have the opportunity of a lifetime as they compete in Bake Week at the prestigious Grafton Manor. The contestants are determined to win the coveted Golden Spoon, but for Betsy Martin, the beloved host of the show, the competition holds even more significance. Grafton Manor is her family's legacy, and Bake Week is her life's passion. However, as the competition progresses, mysterious acts of sabotage occur, escalating into a sinister turn when a body is found. With the ultimate prize at stake, it becomes evident that one contestant is willing to resort to murder in pursuit of The Golden Spoon.
14. The Writing Retreat by Julia Bartz
Release date, February 21, 2023Five aspiring writers are chosen for a prestigious writing retreat hosted by the enigmatic Roza Vallo, a renowned feminist horror author. Among them is Alex, a struggling writer eager for a chance to revive her career. Excitement turns to fear as the group realizes they must complete an entire novel during their stay, with the winner receiving a life-changing publishing deal. However, their dreams quickly turn into a nightmare as the women start dying one by one. Trapped and terrified, Alex must confront her own demons and finish her novel if she hopes to survive the deadly retreat at Blackbriar Estate.
15. The Puzzle Master by Danielle Trussoni
Release date, June 13, 2023Mike Brink is a puzzle constructor with acquired savant syndrome, granting him unparalleled puzzle-solving abilities. His isolated world changes when he meets Jess Price, a woman imprisoned for murder and silent since her arrest. When Price presents a mysterious puzzle, Brink's fascination turns into an obsession with unraveling the truth behind her silence. As the quest unfolds, Brink delves into a web of enigmas, including the ancient God Puzzle, leading him through prisons, historical cities, and hidden libraries. But as powerful forces come into play, Brink realizes that the stakes are higher than he ever imagined, and the future of humanity itself hangs in the balance. This tantalizing, addictive thriller explores the connections between humankind, technology, and the mysteries of the universe.
16. The Lake House by Sarah Beth Durst
Release date, April 25, 2023Claire's worst nightmares become reality when she arrives at an isolated summer camp to find it destroyed and devoid of survivors, except for herself and two other latecomers, Reyva and Mariana. As they stumble upon a lifeless body in the woods, they come to a chilling realization: they are being hunted. Something sinister lurks in the shadows, refusing to let them escape. Now, Claire and her companions must confront their deepest fears and fight to survive in a gripping tale of suspense and terror.
17. House of Cotton by Monica Brashears
Release date, April 4, 2023Magnolia, a nineteen-year-old facing financial struggles and the haunting memories of her past, is offered a life-changing opportunity by a mysterious stranger named Cotton. He promises her a lucrative job at his family's funeral home, which seems like the answer to her problems. However, as Magnolia delves deeper into Cotton's world, she realizes that there's more to this arrangement than meets the eye. This sharp social commentary sheds light on the aftermath of the American plantation and the challenges of being a poor, Black woman in the conservative southern society, delivering a compelling tale of survival, strength, and the pursuit of a better life.
18. Apartment 303 by Kelli Hawkins
Release date, March 8, 2023In the comfort of her apartment, twenty-six-year-old Rory leads a secluded life, finding solace in her work at her aunt's PI business and in observing the homeless men across the road, whom she endows with imagined histories. With only her loyal dog Buster for company, she cherishes the quiet nights on the rooftop, contemplating the stars. However, when one of the homeless men is murdered on the night before New Year's Eve, Rory's sanctuary is shattered, and her life takes an unexpected turn. As police investigations, new neighbors, haunting memories from her past, and new possibilities collide, Rory is faced with a critical decision: to remain locked away in her safe haven or confront the dangers lurking beyond her front door.
19. Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers by Jesse Q. Sutanto
Release date, March 14, 2023Meet sixty-year-old Vera Wong, an enthusiastic tea connoisseur who finds joy in savoring a delightful cup of Wulong while discreetly investigating her son's love life on the internet. However, her peaceful routine takes a dramatic turn when she wakes up to discover a dead body in her beloved tea shop. With a determination stronger than a robust Longjing brew, Vera takes it upon herself to unravel the mystery behind the murder, convinced she can do a better job than the police. Armed with her keen instincts and a mother's intuition, she sets out to catch the culprit, for nobody uncovers secrets quite like a resourceful Chinese mother with time on her hands. Brace yourself for a delightful tale of mystery and humor as this amateur sleuth spills the tea in her pursuit of justice.
20. The Only One Left by Riley Sager
Release date, June 20, 2023Set in 1983, Kit McDeere takes on the role of a home-health aide at the decaying Hope's End to care for Lenora, an elderly woman left mute by a series of strokes. Lenora communicates through an old typewriter, and one night, she makes a startling offer—to reveal everything. As Kit delves into the past, assisting Lenora in recounting the events leading to the Hope family massacre, it becomes evident that there are hidden layers to the story. However, as new revelations about her predecessor's abrupt departure surface, Kit begins to question Lenora's honesty and the true nature of the seemingly harmless woman she cares for. Unravel the chilling secrets in this gripping tale, where the line between trust and danger blurs, leaving Kit to navigate the dark truths within the walls of Hope's End.
21. Suddenly a Murder by Lauren Muñoz
Release date, September 5, 2023In a 1920s-themed party at Ashwood Manor, seven friends indulge in the glitz and glamour until the night takes a chilling turn when Kassidy's boyfriend is found murdered. Izzy Morales, along with her friends, becomes a prime suspect in the investigation. As tensions rise, secrets unravel, and trust is put to the test, everyone must endure intense interrogations to uncover the truth behind the deadly game. Locked in the estate, innocence becomes the most coveted luxury, and the killer's identity must be revealed before it's too late. Step into this suspenseful whodunit, where the line between friends and foes blurs, and each clue brings them closer to the shocking truth.
22. Weyward by Emilia Hart
Release date, February 2, 2023This ia a captivating novel that intertwines the lives of three extraordinary women spanning five centuries. In 2019, Kate seeks refuge in Weyward Cottage, escaping an abusive partner and uncovering a hidden secret from her great aunt's past, tied to the witch-hunts of the 17th century. Altha, in 1619, faces trial for a murder she didn't commit, using her unique magical knowledge to fight for her freedom. Meanwhile, during World War II in 1942, Violet longs for a better life and yearns to understand her mother's mysterious past. Through rich storytelling and the transformative power of nature, Emilia Hart weaves a tale of female resilience, connecting the lives of these women in a mesmerizing narrative.
23. My Murder by Katie Williams
Release date, June 6, 2023Lou, a happily married mother, finds herself in a chilling predicament. She was once the victim of a local serial killer but has miraculously been brought back to life through a government project. As she adjusts to her old life and connects with other female victims, she becomes haunted by questions surrounding her death and the trustworthiness of those around her. While she tries to care for her child, love her husband, and maintain her job, Lou must also unravel the mysteries surrounding her own murder. With dark humor, a gripping pace, and unexpected twists, "My Murder" offers a unique and thrilling take on the classic thriller genre.
Whew. That was a lot!
Stay tuned for Part 2
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