Tag: Thriller

Monthly TBR – July 2026

Posted on July 4, 2026July 4, 2026 by fantasyst95

I’ve really had to reign myself in with my July TBR. A theme of every reading list I have set myself so far this year is that the list is a long one, and I don’t get to do every book on it.

My June TBR and the aim to complete the Goodreads spring reading challenge overwhelmed to me. That’s myself get stuck on lack of progress with a chunky book and fell off the wagon, so to speak.

So, I’ve had a word with myself to shorten this list as much as I can get away with. There were also practical reasons for that decision – I have some blog tour obligations later this month that I can’t skip out on. I cannot have a repeat of last month and let that get in the way of my promise to review these books.

July is a busy month at work, and typically I work overtime in the early days of the month. Leaning into audio allows me to read when still doing other things, from going to the gym or driving, or enjoying my crafty hobbies! I’m back into crochet lately, as well as cross-stitch!

So, what’s the theme for July’s TBR? Completing June carried forward June reads, revisiting my highly anticipated 2026 releases and three blog tour obligations at the end of this month into early August.

Let’s dive in!

Carryovers from June

The Pillars of the Earth

Goodreads

My first carryover from June to include in this July TVR is the read I made the most progress with of all my carryovers. Yes, I am talking about The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett. As of drafting this July TBR, I am X pages into this book. That sounds significant, but when you consider this book is 1070 pages long in total, you’ll easily see that I still have some way to go!

It’s this book that tripped me up in June. When I started it, I set out with the intention to read just over 40 pages a day. That would have seen me to the end of this book. However, I can’t always read every day. That means very quickly you can get behind, and I let this mindset get in my way of making the progress I could and ultimately I stopped reading this book towards the end of June.

However, now I have no deadline. I am enjoying this book, so it’s one I’m going to continue with my own time rather than pressurising myself. Whilst I would like to complete this for the end of July, anything goes!

Katabasis

Goodreads

This is the book I started at the end of June to get myself out of the rut caused by The Pillars of the Earth. I have enjoyed books by R.F. Kuang several times now. Babel, The Poppy War and Yellowface all grace my ‘read’ shelves. No doubt Katabasis will be among their number shortly.

I only made a token start to this book before the end of June. However, I enjoyed the set up of the storyline so far. I’ve also enjoyed other dark academia themed books earlier this year. Another notable mention in this genre is An Arcane Inheritance if you are looking for something of this ilk.

Fingers crossed it lives up to the hype I’ve heard and expect from R.F. Kuang and it can get me back into the reading groove!

Behind Closed Doors

Goodreads

My audiobook carryover into this July TBR is Behind Closed Doors. This is a relatively short book. I have only listened to this for around an hour for a couple of evenings so far, and that puts me about a third of the way into the book.

Again, I have enjoyed the set up for this one. There is definitely more to the story than meets the eye. It’s currently being portrayed as a fairly typical story of a man controlling a woman in a new marriage. But is that really the case? It seems an obvious set up. I’m either hoping for a complete role reversal or some kind of twist that flipped this on its head. Either that, or a revenge arc for Grace.

Reading Obligations

House of Twisted Shadows

Goodreads

A blog tour review opportunity came up for a book with a mystery and thriller leaning, but also ties to World War II. You know me, I love my historical fiction based on this time period! I’m excited to try a book from a different genre with this same leaning and ties to Nazi Germany.

I’ve got most of the months to pick up this book, as my review is due to take place on the 25th of July. Given that it’s an obligation though, I’m going to prioritise this book and hopefully read it sooner. I’m looking forward to picking this up and sharing my thoughts with you very soon!

A Painkiller to Die For

Goodreads

My next tour follows just three days after House of Twisted Shadows. So, I need to get my skates on. I’ve often said that having a reading deadline helps motivate me. Whilst that didn’t especially help me last month, this time it’s a bit different in that I would be letting somebody else down rather than just myself.

What drew me to A Painkiller to Die For is the book’s pharmaceutical leaning. It’s not a common topic I read about, so it had novelty factor. Not only that, but there is clearly some mystery aspect to the storyline. Are the characters all who they say they are?

Duel of Beasts

Goodreads

My final blog tour obligation on my July TBR is a medieval adventure set in Spain, of all places. Rachel was looking for people to take part in the tour, and I was intrigued.

It seems there’s some kind of religious aspect to this book. It’s not my typical setting of novel, but that’s precisely why I want to read it! I’m always trying to diversify the books and settings I pick up. Duel of Beasts definitely fits that bill!

2026 Releases

The Midnight Train

Goodreads

A couple of new releases on my 2026 highly anticipated releases list came out in April. However, with reading priorities and challenges to date, I’ve not yet got to them. It’s now time! This July’s TBR has lots of exciting new releases on it when you take into account my three blog tours.

I’ve come to love Matt Haig’s writing. However, I’m a little apprehensive of this book given I’ve read less favourable reviews of this latest book. Still, I won’t know for definite until I pick it up for myself. Nevertheless, I want to give it a go and see if I agree or have my own opinions…

The Language of Liars

Goodreads

This book is all about words, their power. It leans into my own personal love of language, and that’s why I’m not so quietly optimistic that this will go down well with me.

The sci-fi spy narrative is also a little unusual. I’ve read something similar before (Starsight) and really enjoyed it. It’s a bit of an unusual one, but all the same, I’m keen to get stuck into this one and see if it’s just as good.

Summary

I’ve got considerably fewer books on my July TBR, and I’m planning to pick up as many as I can in audio format to make the most of reading opportunities I have. I’m ready for a fresh start, and I’ve got plenty of new releases to dive into and get excited about!

What new release have you read recently?

Monthly Wrap-Up – June 2026

Posted on July 1, 2026July 1, 2026 by fantasyst95

Reading progress in June didn’t go the way I wanted. Whilst that is the theme of this monthly wrap-up, it isn’t all bad. The TBR I set myself in June was a tall order. I set out to try and complete the Goodreads Spring Reading Challenge, having only achieved half of the awards by the beginning of June. The TBR required long reads. Different reads. Too many, if I’m honest.

I knew it was going to be the most difficult TBR to complete yet. After a gamble on reading Somewhere Beyond the Sea didn’t pay off in qualifying for the Pride Month, it set me on the back foot. It only really carried on from there…

Less commiserating – let’s at least look at the books I did read. There is good news in this monthly wrap-up – I’m on track with my Throne of Glass readalong for the first time…. And I’ve just read book 4… Not only that, but a completed read and the discovery of a new author I want to read more from was probably the highlight of the month!

Books Read

Somewhere Beyond the Sea

Goodreads Link

My gamble with listening to Somewhere Beyond the Sea, so I could finish it in early June, didn’t quite go to plan. Well, I finished the book on the first of the month. That part was bob-on. My gamble that it qualified for the Pride Month award was scuppered though.

To be honest, there wasn’t anything I could have done here. I had a few books on my TBR that I felt could fit. As it happens, none of them were on the list. Regardless of what I picked, I wouldn’t have got it.

However, I have ticked a sequel off my TBR, so it’s not all doom and gloom! I really enjoyed this cozy, wholesome narrative!

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

Goodreads Link

My next carryover from May was a non-fiction about one of my favourite book and TV series of all-time – Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. I love reading about A Game of Thrones, be it the books themselves, the history, lore, or turns out, the drama of filming that which was not meant to be filmable!

I don’t envy Dan Weiss and David Benioff. They put a lot of pressure on themselves to deliver something we have never really seen on screen before. We are now 6+ years post release of the final, fateful series, and it’s hard to recall that this was a front-runner in terms of scope and size. Now, it feels like GoT set a bar that everyone else has to live up to. We love our epics!

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon is very much all about the behind-the-scenes action – the decision-making, the thoughts of actors and their roles, and the ways in which actors discovered their characters fates.

All in all, loved this read. There is very little ‘new’ I read about this series now. This hit the mark though!

Project Hail Mary

Goodreads Link

Mid-month, I finished listening to Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. I picked this book up as it contributed to two Goodreads Spring Reading Challenge awards – Summer Reading and Escapist reads. Whilst I picked it up more for the awards, it was the best decision I made!

The audiobook version of the book is phenomenal! It was a great listen, and the characterisation of Rocky wouldn’t have been the same on paper I don’t think. I loved Project Hail Mary so much that I immediately added Artemis and the Martian to my TBR.

What a happy result from a book that wasn’t necessarily a reading priority but for the challenge…

Queen of Shadows

Goodreads Link

I tried something different with my readalong book of the month in June. Instead of borrowing a digital copy of Queen of Shadows, like I did for every book in the series so far, I picked up an audiobook copy. An aspect. I struggled with in earlier books is the slower pace of setting the scene a the beginning of the book. In the hopes of getting past that, I hoped the audiobook would smooth this issue.

I’m pleased to say it did! The other reason I opted for audio was because I was more likely to listen throughout the month and match the pace of my readalong. I generally listen more slowly and consistently. On that front, the audiobook version of Queen of Shadows worked for me as well.

I’m looking forward to sharing my thoughts on this one over on my YouTube channel later this week. Then, I’ll continue in the same form, diving into Empire of Storms in audio format as well.

The Pillars of the Earth

Goodreads Link

The main downfall at the end of this month was the size of The Pillars of the Earth overwhelming me. I had set myself a target to read 42 pages a day to get through it. Was that achievable? Sure. However, once you get a little behind, it’s easy to fall off the wagon. That happened for me in June, and really that stalled my reading progress.

Am I still enjoying The Pillars of the Earth? Yes! It’s a slower read, sure. I can lean into that. I think my expectations to finish this book, as well as pick up three others before the end of the month was just a bit much. In the later half of June, that reality crept up on me.

I’m still plodding along with The Pillars of the Earth. My plans are to read this slowly alongside other faster-paced reads. Otherwise, I may just get stuck on it. It’s an interesting book so far, and I don’t want to waste the progress I’ve made so far by putting it down (even temporarily).

Katabasis

Goodreads Link

In the last couple of days of the month, I needed a change of pace. So, I picked up Katabasis. As expected, this book leans into the dark academia and fantasy magical realism that I wanted. I’ve enjoyed this before in Babel, by the same author. I loved that book, and felt it was the best pick-me-up to round off the month.

And that is true. However, I didn’t read a whole lot of the book before the end of June so there isn’t a huge update in this monthly wrap-up on where I’m up to. Nevertheless, I’ve got plenty of time in July to continue this read and really get into the gritty storyline I’m hoping for.

Behind Closed Doors

Goodreads Link

My last audiobook of the month that I started was Behind Closed Doors. It’s a pretty short book, but I only started it a few days before month-end.

Behind Closed Doors qualified for the Community Picks award. These books were in the mystery/thriller genre. Based on the rest of my TBR, it made for a refreshing change. That’s still the case! Looking ahead at books I need to read in the next few weeks, I’m going to enjoy listening to something a little different. It’s apparent from the off that something is off in this family dynamic. But, is it what we think it is?

Only time will tell!

Summary

My June TBR was a little unattainable, if I’m honest. However, if I don’t push myself, I tend to fall slack on reading as well. I suppose my take away from this monthly wrap-up is that I need to find the middle ground. Give myself a little challenge, but not so much that I don’t have time for bad days, or wanting to pick up other hobbies.

Thanks for reading today’s monthly wrap-up! How was your reading month in June? Did you complete any challenges, or discover any new favourite authors?

Monthly TBR – June 2026

Posted on June 5, 2026 by fantasyst95

My June monthly TBR is all about trying to complete the Goodreads Spring 2026 reading challenge. Yes, I’m having another stab at this quarterly challenge. Last time, I got to 9 after 12 achievements towards the winter challenge. Being so close, I knew I wanted to take a second stab at this.

If I’m being honest, do I think I’m going to achieve this? Perhaps not. In order to get the remaining eight achievements, I have a hefty monthly TBR to get through. I also hedged my bets on a Pride Month read, which is one of the prompts, which unfortunately did not qualify. Given I already have a hefty list, I’m unlikely to be able to pick up another Pride Month read before the end of June.

Nevertheless, I’m looking forward to the books on this monthly TBR. I already own a considerable number of these, and it’s going to be a productive month for hitting books on my reading list as opposed to working towards other reading commitments. I have 230 books on my reading list, so it will be refreshing to tick off a good chunk of these.

Carryovers from May/Reading Obligations

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

The first of two books I’ve carried over from May is Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon by James Hibberd. If you watched my monthly TBR video over on YouTube, you’ll see that this was one of four books I pulled out of my TBR jar to read last month. Incidentally, it was also the only book I managed to get to out of those picks. May’s TBR was equally ambitious for very different reasons. However, I’m glad I was able to start Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon.

I have been looking forward to this read because it’s based on the behind-the-scenes action of filming the Game of Thrones TV series. Not only has it given me serious nostalgia for the main series, but it’s given me the opportunity to learn more about the filming of the series that I’ve appreciated ever before. It’s an engaging read, a fun read as well as being insightful. I’m loving the commentary from both cast and crew on the overall production of the series, as well as insights from the author George R. R. Martin himself.

Am I fighting the urge to pick up A Game of Thrones again? Yes. Absolutely…

Project Hail Mary

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

My second carryover for May, albeit I made very little progress right at the end of the month, is Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir.

I started this book initially when sampling the audio to see if this was the format I wanted to read Project Hail Mary in. After purchasing the audiobook based on the few minutes sample I listened to, I then decided to stick with the first few chapters. It was enough to give me an idea of what the book was about and introduce the character and setting to get me excited to pick up the remainder of the book.

Now that I have finished the other audiobook I was listening to properly at the time, Project Hail Mary is my full-time listen as of this monthly TBR for June. And, with a bank holiday weekend here, I’ve got lots of time to enjoy getting stuck in properly.

Queen of Shadows

Goodreads

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I only had one book that fit the AAPI Heritage reading prompt. And you know what, I’m not mad, as it means I get to pick up another book by R.F. Kuang!

I have really come to love Rebecca‘s writing. Most recently, I picked up Yellowface at the beginning of this year. However, I have loved all the books more reminiscent of Katabasis, including the likes of Babel.

I was so excited to pick up a physical copy of this book that I picked it up going abroad last year, only to bring it all the way home. Could I have waited? Sure. Did I want to? Absolutely not!

Challenger

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

When reading Orbital by Samantha Harvey at the very top of the year, I got to touch upon the topic of the space shuttle Challenger and its tragic fate in that narrative. It was only touched on very briefly, but it sparked a reminder that I wanted to pick up Challenger by Adam Higginbotham to really learn what happened on that fateful day.

Thankfully, this book qualifies for the editor’s picks prompt for the spring challenge. Honestly, I had a few books that fit in this category, and it was hard to choose which one. However, partly down to the combination of already owning the book, as well as being passionate about the subject from a recent read, gave this book the edge to make it onto this monthly TBR.

Behind Closed Doors

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

Finally, given I already have some lengthy reading to get through, I picked the shortest book on my TBR for the community picks prompt.

Behind Closed Doors is a reasonably short mystery/thriller novel that I will hopefully devour! Given I’ve enjoyed books like this in audio format before, and the heavy weighting of physical books on this June TBR so far, I imagine I will pick this up in audio just to help get to it as well.

At just under 300 pages, this feels achievable!

Summary

So, ignoring the fact I currently have a gap to fill in another Pride Month pick, these are the books I plan to read towards the rest of the challenge prompts for the Goodreads Spring 2026 Reading Challenge. However, I do also have a couple of books on this list that don’t fit that prompt at all. Fire cannot kill a dragon and Queen of Shadows do not qualify for this challenge at all, but they are personal reads I’m invested in picking up in June.

Are you taking part in any reading challenges this month? Do you have any planned summer reading you are taking part in? Let me know in the comments what you’re planning to read this June.

Blog Tour Review: Witch Hunt – B.D. Spargo

Posted on June 4, 2026June 3, 2026 by fantasyst95

Witch Hunt captivated my attention for its thriller genre combined with the infamous background of Pendle Hill. I love witchcraft and leaning into the unpleasant history that goes along with the site was the perfect set up for this book.

And, the audiobook doesn’t disappoint on the atmosphere I anticipated. Whilst the plot is a little lighter touch on the history than perhaps I hoped or expected, it was an interesting touch all the same. Plus, the books surprised me in other ways. All in all, this was a fun listen and I’m glad I took the chance on a new book and author to me.

As always, thanks to Rachel and the author, B.D. Spargo for the opportunity to read and review Witch Hunt. Whilst I was provided a copy of the book for the purpose of giving my review, the thoughts expressed within this review are entirely my own.

Let’s go over the book details, synopsis, (and purchase links if you want to get a copy yourself), then I can get to the fun part of the review!

Witch Hunt – B.D. Spargo

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 396 or Audio Length: 10hrs

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Howfen Press

Original Publication Date: 31 May 2025

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Goodreads – Witch Hunt

Murder, witchcraft, and a race against time – welcome to Pendle Hill.

A young woman is found brutally murdered and mutilated at the foot of Pendle Hill and the local police are in no doubt who the killer is. Newly released from a psychiatric unit, Will Perkins has delusions that the victim is a witch. When DCI Liam Doyle and his team are brought in to investigate, the suspect is already in custody and the case apparently wrapped up. Except for one key detail – evidence.

Is it really possible the origins to this murder lie in Pendle’s infamous past?

Recently returned to work, DS Anna Morgan is battling her own demons. The physical wounds from her last case have healed, but the psychological trauma still haunts her. When another body turns up the investigation is blown wide open and Doyle has to face up to the horrifying possibility that he could have prevented this killing.
Can Doyle overcome his own doubts and track down the killer before they strike again? Will Morgan be able to conquer her fear before it destroys her?

Set in and around Lancashire’s legendary Pendle Hill, Witch Hunt is a gripping British crime thriller with dark humour and a nail-biting climax. This fast-paced novel, the second in the series featuring DCI Doyle and DS Morgan, will have listeners on the edge of their seats.

If you have enjoyed books by authors such as Val McDermid, MW Craven, JD Kirk and Alex Smith, you won’t want to miss Witch Hunt.

Purchase Links

UK Links:

https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/B0GV51STB8

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GV4XCNLT

USA Links:

https://www.audible.com/pd/B0GV5659QN

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GV59H5TQ

My Thoughts…

Plot

Whilst this is a second book of a wider series starring the protagonist, DCI Liam Doyle, I went into this book with no prior knowledge. However, that doesn’t matter in the slightest! Whether you choose to pick up Witch Hunt as a standalone or as part of the series, I feel sure you will enjoy the plot unravel as much as I did!

The storyline doesn’t pull its punches when it comes to the crimes that take place. Even from the opening pages, we are thrown into a dark narrative of accusation of witchcraft and a brutal murder. The story takes place in the backdrop of Pendle Hill, where horrendous witch trials and persecution took place. This is fitting for the story, and yet the book isn’t so dependent on knowledge of what took place there beyond the basics that the target audience of the book becomes so niche. If you enjoy police procedurals or thrillers, Witch Hunt is both an approachable and entertaining read.

The complexity of the mystery has us asking what we think we know throughout the book. I was guessing up until the very end.

As much as this book is full of high-stakes moments, there are also quiet moments where we are reminded of the humanity of the characters. Small, slice of life events like a parent/teacher meeting for Harry remind us that Liam Doyle,

Characters

If there is one aspect of this book I didn’t expect, it was that I love the representation of mental health throughout the narrative. From individuals exhibiting schizophrenic behaviour, to PTSD and children diagnosed with autism learning how to navigate their world, there’s a lot of positive rep in the book. The sensitivity with which these characters and their traits are incorporated into an engaging story is refreshing. Their diagnoses and behaviours aren’t their defining characteristics, even though at times they play a distinctly part in the wider narrative.

When I read the book, I wasn’t aware of the author’s personal history of working in mental health services. However, in hindsight, that makes complete sense. It shows in the way these characters are portrayed, and I love it! Had I read the previous book in the series, I believe some of the background of the characters would be fleshed out in more detail. However, readers of Witch Hunt don’t strictly need to read the first book for events to make sense. I certainly didn’t feel like I lost out any not having the backstory established in book 1.

Even without the backstory, we get to enjoy progression arcs for many of the characters featured. After Anna experiences a brutal attack, she has to confront her fears in a make or break moment for the case. Liam Doyle navigates a difficult dynamic with an ex-partner with whom he has a young son, Harry whilst also juggling the caseload of identifying and apprehending a serial killer.

Setting

Set in the shadow of the infamous Pendle Hill and its history, this is the perfect backdrop for the storyline that follows. Whilst the story and setting lean in to a grim portion of history, the storyline that takes place is far than outdated.

I must admit, I had hoped the witchcraft element of the storyline was going to prove a little stronger. That is entirely a personal preference, however. I love books featuring witches! Nevertheless, it is a clever book to tie together the topic of witchcraft and a brutal history with a more modern timeline.

Narrative Style

I listened to the audiobook version of this novel as part of the tour. I can confidently say that the narrative style would read as well as it comes across in audio format! The pacing at which the plot unravels it perfect for maintaining suspense up until the very moment of a twist or unveiling.

I can also attest that the audiobook is a greta way to experience the tale. The narration by Aubrey Parsons is very well done. It was refreshing to pick up a book go this genre in audio format for a change. It’s not one I pick up as often as others anyway. Even then, I tend to read thrillers. However, this particular book proves why books like Witch Hunt need to be less of an exception and more of a rule.

Summary

Witch Hunt is a fun, entertaining and engaging police procedural thriller that has us guessing until the end. I really enjoyed the historical backdrop of the book. My favourite part of all is the positive representation of mental health in the book.

Have you read Witch Hunt, or is it now on your TBR after today’s review?

Author Bio

Fast approaching fifty; without enough money for a sports car, BD Spargo decided to express his mid-life crises by turning to crime …

Thankfully for pretty much everyone this meant writing crime fiction rather than anything more nefarious. Originally from London, he spent his early career working in television and theatre including on the Ruth Rendall Mysteries broadcast on ITV.

A life changing accident necessitated retraining and a change of direction going on to work in mental health services. This culminated in ten years managing a groundbreaking forensic psychiatric service. He now lives in Lancashire with his family and is getting acclimatised to the rain.

Social Media Links –

Website: https://bdspargo.com

Facebook: http://facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557017745842

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BDSpargo

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/bdspargo.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bdspargo/

Book Review: Wizard and Glass – Stephen King

Posted on May 23, 2026 by fantasyst95

***Today’s review of Wizard and Glass contains an affiliate link to Amazon if you wish to purchase the book. If you follow this link, I will earn a small commission from that purchase at no cost to you.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the book based on this review, I would really appreciate you following this link and showing my content some support by making your purchase.***

Wizard and Glass wasn’t quite the book I expected it to be. So far in Stephen King’s The Dark Tower series, the narrative has been light on the context of the wider series. Hoping this would unravel later in all due time, I was okay with this. Well, unravel it did. If you’re interested in my thoughts on the earlier books of the series, you can find these here: –

The Gunslinger

The Drawing of the Three

The Waste Lands

I confess, Wizard and Glass wasn’t quite the books I anticipated, and I almost marked it down for it. Ultimately, it was an interesting book. However, if I’m honest I was a little disappointed Wizard and Glass came across as a bit of an info-dump book.

However, the book and narrative isn’t without its merits, and overall I rated the book four stars. Before we get into my thoughts in full detail, let’s cover the stats and synopsis…

Wizard and Glass – Stephen King

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 845

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Publication Date: 04 Nov 1997

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Purchase Link – Amazon UK

Goodreads – Wizard and Glass

Roland, Eddie, Susannah, Jake, and Jake’s pet bumbler survive Blaine the Mono’s final crash, only to find themselves stranded in an alternate version of Topeka, Kansas, one that has been ravaged by the superflu virus. While following the deserted I-70 toward a distant glass palace, they hear the atonal squalling of a thinny, a place where the fabric of existence has almost entirely worn away. While camping near the edge of the thinny, Roland tells his ka-tet a story about another thinny, one that he encountered when he was little more than a boy. Over the course of one long magical night, Roland transports us to the Mid-World of long-ago and a seaside town called Hambry, where Roland fell in love with a girl named Susan Delgado, and where he and his old tet-mates Alain and Cuthbert battled the forces of John Farson, the harrier who—with a little help from a seeing sphere called Maerlyn’s Grapefruit—ignited Mid-World’s final war.

My Thoughts

Plot

Whilst the overall setting and backstory of this book came across as a bit of an info-dump, I can’t actually fault the narrative in itself. This book wasn’t what I expected or hoped for. Instead of a continuation of the present day narrative we’ve enjoyed in books 1-3, very little actually happens in the present timeline in Wizard and Glass.

Instead, we are taken back to Roland’s youth for the entirety of this book. If not for the level of cohesive detail, and my inability to come up with a way this story could have been told in the detail it is any other way, I would have marked it down. There is so much to this book that I think it was necessary to do in this format. In the grand scheme of the series, the context this backstory provides is relevant to the wider plot and needed to be told. My dislike of the change of pace and plot-line is ultimately preferential and so I couldn’t in good faith by unfair on this point my marking down my review.

Wizard and Glass is an epic storyline. Hardly surprising for a Stephen King book, but especially in this wider world. Rather than following the established journey towards the Tower, we instead explore the backstory that set Roland on its path. That said, the plot is no less full of action and conflict that we’ve seen in earlier books. Rather, the setting of the book takes us back to what I would describe as a more authentic Western setting. Conflicts, when not handled with words, start with fists and end with bullets or flame. It’s dramatic, tense, and everything I’ve enjoyed in the series so far.

Characters

As well as the usual cast and crew we’ve come to know and love throughout The Dark Tower so far, we come to know many more in Wizard and Glass.

Despite almost starting again, and having a whole new cast to introduce and explore, this wasn’t overwhelming to read. Key character are brought into the narrative in good time, not all at once. Even though I went into this book with investment into a set of characters that barely feature in the story (Roland aside, of course), I was still able to relate and motivate myself to explore the new characters and their conclusions.

The small town community setting of this book is one I know all too well. I live on an island myself, and news, and people, get around. In this even smaller, somewhat isolated group, it’s not difficult to appreciate how difficult it is to keep secrets in a place like this. The conflict and tension of such a setting is engaging. Groups like this often develop their own senses of right and wrong, morality, things like that. For outsiders, it’s entirely skewed. That’s very much the case here, and I liked that. To what extermes will these people go to? Where are the boundaries, if they exist?

Setting

The benefit of a book which essentially addresses flashbacks is that we get to see a whole new setting within the wider world already established. It’s an opportunity to address history and take a look at the places, events and ultimately the backstory that shaped the more modern timeline.

In Wizard and Glass, we get to experience what I would describe as a book with closer fidelity to a Western style narrative. In earlier books, we’ve had elements of modern societies bleed into the narrative. Blane the mono, abandoned cities and the like morph the setting slightly to something more hybrid. However, in Wizard and Glass, the small town setting and close community brings us back to the book’s Western roots. The self-sustaining community, suspicious of outsiders, set in their ways and opinions and witchcraft especially feels authentic.

Whilst I’ve enjoyed the other books and their crossovers in setting (it’s a fantasy after all, not a pure Western), I got on well with Wizard and Glass leaning into this more authentic setting.

Narrative Style

For the most part, we spend the majority of our time in Wizard and Glass flashing back to the past. Whilst we get brief glimpses of present day and the group listening to Roland’s recount of his youth, not much happens here. Even still, these brief interludes help break up that dense, contextually relevant narrative and give Susannah and Eddie the opportunity to ‘ask questions’ to help reaffirm relevance to readers.

Despite being a chunky read, I read Wizard and Glass pretty quickly. In all, I think I was actively progressing with this book over a span of a couple of weeks. I did have to put it down temporarily to pick up some reading obligations. However, once those were out of the way I dived into the final 30% of the book with gusto.

For an epic fantasy, I’d say Kings books, Wizard and Glass included, aren’t difficult to read. There’s complexity in the depth of what is going on, sure, but not really in the language, tone or writing style of the book. Even references to phases and elements of ‘own language’ in the book are pretty self-explanatory.

Summary

Thanks for reading today’s Wizard and Glass review!

Have you read Wizard of Glass, or any other books in Stephen King’s The Dark Tower series? If not yet, pick up a copy of Wizard and Glass here, or start the adventure with The Dark Tower and let me know what you think of this Western-style fantasy.

My May 2026 TBR… It’s LONG!

Posted on May 4, 2026 by fantasyst95

When planning my May 2026 TBR, I knew I wanted a fresh start. After a lacklustre reading month in April (see my April wrap-up if you want the low-down on that…), I’m hoping a clean slate is the key to getting my reading groove back.

I have some reading obligations as well, so the deadlines will also go a long way to spurring me on. I have two blog tours, as well as kicking myself up the bum to get my Throne of Glass read-alongs back on track.

Beyond that, I’ve let my brand new, refreshed TBR Jar decide the rest! It pulled out some chunky books, and I confess I tossed one back as it tried to give me a 1,100 pager after already tossing me a couple of 700 pagers. The genres I’m reading this month span horror, thriller, historical fiction, non-fiction, as well as my favourite, fantasy. One epic fantasy sequel as well I’m excited to get to 🎊

Enough teasing, I’ll get stuck in with my obligations first, then I’ll highlight my TBR Jar picks.

Carryovers from April/Reading Obligations

Why We Get Sick

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

At the end of April, I started listening to the audiobook Why We Get Sick by Benjamin Bikman. I started this book as I have an interest in the subject, in particular the biological level of detail insulin resistance has on cells.

I didn’t have a book like this on my TBR. Rather, it’s a topic I have wanted to learn about personally. Leaning into a complete change and effectively scrapping my TBR, I hoped picking up a book totally unrelated to my April TBR would give me the fresh start I needed.

As of the end of April, it was working! In fact, this book features on my May 2026 TBR as I finished the book in May – yes – it’s already done 👍 It’s the best of starts I could hope for when it comes t my May TBR – long may it continue…

Crown of Midnight

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Amazon Purchase Link

Crown of Midnight is a carryover from my April TBR and my current read as of this May 2026 TBR.

My read-along for Sarah J Maas hasn’t gotten off to the best of starts. The fault is entirely mine – I’m not prioritising it enough. That changes this month. Not only am I immediately prioritising down of Midnight to catch up on my being behind, but I will be following up with the sequel immediately.

I’ll also plan ahead to set myself goals so that I DO actually read-along over the course of the month, as opposed to just playing catch up at the end which is what’s happened three times now. I’m going to go and do that on Storygraph and Fable after this post goes live. I’ll havens excuse then, right?!

Heir of Fire

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Amazon Purchase Link

As above, once Crown of Midnight is finished I’m jumping into the first part of Heir of Fire right away. Compared to the earlier books in the series, Heir of Fire is longer. Compare 400-and-something pages for those first two books to nearly 600 in Heir of Fire.

I can’t catch up with that too late. I need to keep on top of this one…

Watch this space and hold me accountable friends!

The Eagle Will Rise

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Amazon Purchase Link

The first of my blog tour obligations this month is The Eagle will Rise by M.J. Porter. I signed up to this tour as I’m a big fan of the author’s Eagle of Mercia Chronicles. We also have some character overlap in this book, although the circumstances are very different in this new series.

I’m excited to see where this takes us. I know what to expect in terms of writing style from M.J. Porter, and I’m keen to explore a new plot in a similar setting to that already established in Eagle of Mercia.

Will I enjoy this one as much as I hope? Only time will tell, but I am optimistic!

Witch Hunt

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Amazon Purchase Link

My second commitment is an audiobook tour. I don’t do these often, but I’m excited to get stuck in!

When it comes to listening to audiobooks, I’m typically slower than reading conventionally. So, with that in mind, I’m going to jump in the gap finishing When We Get Sick has created and start Witch Hunt now. My review obligation isn’t until early June. However, in order to listen to this book in sufficient time, I’ve popped it onto this May 2026 TBR.

What piqued my interest for this book? Its association with witchcraft and being set around Pendle Hull of course. It’s a take on the narrative I haven’t explored for a while. It’s also modern mystery/police procedural type book which is a change on what I’ve read and listened to lately. I’m keen to give this a try and let you know what I thought soon.

May 2026 TBR picks

Moving on, I then pulled four books out of my refreshed TBR Jar. I had filtered out around 30-40 books I had read or removed from my TBR, but then added the latest books that were not in the jar. The net effect was more to pull from the jar, but all up-to-date at least. The paper I used was different this time, so I can visually see old vs new entries. I aimed for two of each; that way I can target some older books, but also deliberately mix in some newer ones to keep things fresh.

Here’s what I pulled!

Don’t Fix Women: The Practical Path to Gender Equality at Work

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Amazon Purchase Link

The first book that came out of the jar was kind. It was one of the newer additions to the jar. At 266 pages, it fits well with the overall size of my TBR. Pity the next three books I pulled didn’t agree with the sentiment…

Don’t Fix Women is about fixing imbalances in the current workforce. Will this book have the most practical applications for me? Well, aside from being a women, I don’t have much in the way of power at my company. I’m not HR. However, I’ll advocate as much as I can and if I find practical advice here I think we could adopt, I’ll absolutely speak up.

It should make for an interesting read nonetheless. I do enjoy some feminist reading now and then!

The Great Hunt

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Amazon Purchase Link

The next book I pulled from the jar was also a new book to the jar. I started a read of Robert Jordan’s The Wheel of Time series with The Eye of the World in late 2024. It’s about time I got the sequel anyway, and the jar made that call for me.

The Great Hunt comes in at just over 700 pages. It’s not a short read, but it does lean into one of my favourite genres of all time – epic fantasy. I’m looking forward to jumping back to the life and fate of Rand al’Thor. If I had left it too mcc longer, I’d be trying to recall what happened in the first book and I would struggle to pick this up again. As much as this is a long read, I think it’s a bit of a blessing in disguise that it came out now.

Sleeping Beauties

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After pulling two ‘new’ reads, I then targeted slips that have been in my jar since I first put it together. Sleeping Beauties has been on my TBR since January 2018. I also have a copy on my bookshelves, but I’m not sure if I have owned it as long as that or not. The spine is pretty faded from exposure to the sun, so it’s quite possible!

Sleeping Beauties also comes in a fraction over 700 pages. Not a short read either, but one I’m excited to try. It’s also a bit feminist in nature, as well as overlapping with horror/thriller and fantasy for the plot line. A unique mix I’m keen to try!

Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon

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Amazon Purchase Link

This last book is actually the second draw from the jar. My first pick that came out was The Weird. Not problem, I thought initially, as I had a hunch it was a collection of short stories. That it is, but the whole volume comes in at 1,100 pages. No way was that going to be feasible. So, I’m being honest here and declaring that’s what the jar give me, but I tossed it back in so I could make a second draw.

That second draw was a far more approachable Fire Cannot Kill a Dragon. At 450 pages, this is still somewhat achievable. This May 2026 TBR already has a sizeable page count, so it’s debatable if I’ll get to this one. However, I’ll use access to audio copies of book where I can, maybe even library loans for books I don’t have.

I’m really motivated to pick this up as it’s about one of my favourite TV series (based on books) of all-time – A Game of Thrones! If that’s not incentive to get through the rest of my May 2026 TBR to finish here, then I don’t know what is.

That’s plenty enough to get on with for my May 2026 TBR. What are you reading?

Monthly TBR – April 2026

Posted on April 5, 2026 by fantasyst95

My monthly TBR for April is a little bit different. Normally, I have a set of books that I have in mind to pick up and I largely pick this myself. Sometimes that’s shaped by reading challenges, and that is still somewhat true for this month. However, half of this monthly TBR has been decided by a TBR jar.

If you want to go and watch me physically pull these out of the jar and share my initial reactions, I recorded this and published the video over on my new YouTube channel. Rather than rehash all the content, what I’m going to do is share a link to that video in this post, and for those of you who don’t want to go and watch that, I will provide a brief written summary of the books on my TBR below.

Carryovers from March/Reading Obligations

Storm of Mercia

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Amazon Purchase Link

Starting with a carryover that I was actively reading as at the change of month, I have already finished storm of Mercier by MJ Porter as I had a review obligation to share my thoughts on the book on the 2nd of April.

I’m not going to go into too much detail here, because my thoughts are already live on the Interwebs. You can check out my blog post here for more on this ninth instalment to this epic historical fiction series set in 10th century England.

The Astral Library

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Amazon Purchase Link

Another book I’m featuring because I did carry forward into April, but have already finished as of this April TBR post, is my audiobook lesson of the astral library.

I really enjoyed this contemporary fiction and a story that’s really about the power and magic of libraries. If you like the style of Matt Haig’s The Midnight Library, it offers a similar feel but a completely unique storyline.

1984 / Julia

In March, I started rereading 1984 by George Orwell. At just over 125 pages in, I had to put this down in order to fulfil my reading obligations for reviews for Rose Red and Storm of Mercia.

Now those are done, I’m keen to get back into my re-read of this dystopian fiction so I can then dabble in a retelling of the same world, Julia by Sandra Newman.

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

I always enjoy a Stephen King novel. In this particular case, Bag of Bones is a chunky Stephen King novel. At around 700 pages on its own, this monthly TBR promises to challenge me. I was going to say take me right up to the wire, but let’s be honest, it will take me into May…

The TBR jar did me dirty here!

Freakonomics

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I feel like this book could go one of two ways. It’s either going to be really interesting and tie together some unusual behaviours that impact our economy. Or, the synopsis hinting at this is a bit of a gimmick to get you to pick up the book and I’m going to be disappointed.

Only time will tell I’m intrigued to pick up this book and find out. Fingers crossed, I’m wrong in my suspicion and that this book turns out better than I think it might.

Onyx and Ivory

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Amazon Purchase Link

I’m glad a fantasy made it to this reading list and came out of the TBR jar. Honestly, I would’ve been surprised if it didn’t. I have a lot of fantasy on my list and by rights, the odds of one not being pulled out out of the jar would have been slim.

Onyx and Ivory is also a good pick for me right now as it leans into the romantic genre – what I’m trying to read more of anyway. I feel like this is the kind of topical/trendy book that I’m actively seeking to engage with fans of. Let’s hope I’m a fan as well!

Thanks for checking out my latest monthly TBR! What are you reading this April?

Goodreads

Amazon Purchase Link

The final audiobook to feature in this monthly wrap-up post is The Astral Library. Reading progress with The Astral Library has been pretty quick. It’s not an overlong read anyway, but the plot line is engaging and reminiscent of another of my favourite reads.

Reading a book about books, and featuring snapshots of well-known titles, makes for an entertaining change of angle. Dipping in and out of the margins of classics has been fun, but of course, it’s not over yet. As of this monthly wrap-up, I’ve got three hours of audio left. I’ve chipped away at this audiobook commuting and listening a little before bed. I can reasonably listen to an hour a day. So, I’m sure you can do the maths and come to the same conclusion that I’ll finish this one shortly!

Rose Red

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One of my final reads to feature in this monthly wrap-up is Rose Red by Sarah Biggerstaff. Progress with 1984 stalled as I needed to prioritise reading Rose Red for a social media blog tour.

This fairytale retelling was a fun foray into fantasy… again. It’s my favourite genre for a reason, and I always love going back to it. More than that, though, this Snow White inspired tale has elements of witchcraft, romance and challenging family dynamics. Whilst in principal the description of this book sounds suitable for YA, I wouldn’t say it is. It has elements of gore and violence that may be too much for a younger audience.

My favourite aspect of this book, however, is that Rose doesn’t find magic instinctive and she has to learn. Often, the hard way. I’m going to share more on this book in the near future. For now, know it’s a solid read.

Storm of Mercia

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Finally, in anticipation of a review due in just a couple of days, I started and made good progress with Storm of Mercia. On Sunday I made good headway into this ninth instalment of M.J. Porter’s Eagle of Mercia chronicles.

This historical fiction series is compulsively readable and I got back into this book very quickly. On Sunday, I read the first third of the book. Yesterday, another 10% just before bed. I’m hoping for a little more progress tonight before bed, though that may be a push taking into account when this monthly wrap-up post goes live.

I’m reviewing this book on Thursday, so I need to get my skates on. Needless to say, it’s my immediate priority…

Summary

Considering there were 11 books on my March TBR, I made a noble attempt and managed to progress with seven of these. I’ll take the unread books forward into April, so they aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Storm of Mercia is naturally going to be my priority, with 1984 returning to attention shortly after. In the coming days, I’ll release the rest of my monthly TBR for April. This month, the other books on my TBR aside from Crown of Midnight and my March carryovers were decided by a TBR jar. I’ve got an unusual mix, so there is something on the list for every reading mood! I hope you can check that out when it goes live later this week.

What was your favourite read of March? Have you read any of the books in today’s monthly wrap-up post?

Sunday Summary – 15th March 2026

Posted on March 15, 2026 by fantasyst95

Good evening all – I hope you’re looking forward to this latest Sunday Summary update. Whereas the last few weeks have been a little bit crazy, this week I’ve enjoyed some downtime. I’ve enjoyed a week off work with the other half, and we’ve made the most bit by doing as little as possible! Well, that’s not strictly true. We’ve enjoyed going out at leisure, and we made most of some great weather on Wednesday this week and went for walk on an 8 1/2 mile course. Needless to say, I felt that afterwards…

Although my downtime has taken priority this week, that’s not to say I’ve sacrificed content production. Here on the blog, I’ve still written and posted a book review of The House on the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune, as well as a First Lines Friday instalment. This week’s feature was by an author I read as recently as February… and she has a sizeable backlist I had to choose from. Can you guess who?

On YouTube, I’ve also published two videos with you this week. My first video of the week was a short list of fantasy series I want to start (or in some cases restart) in 2026. The second of my videos was also a review. This was for The Great Passage by Shion Muira which went live yesterday.

Books Read

Throne of Glass

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to finish my readalong of Thrones of Glass before the end of February. As of last week’s Sunday Summary, I was around 60% into the narrative. I made a real push to finish this book this week. With my plan to pick up the sequel, Crown of Midnight in March, I needed to finish this first book so I can move on.

Admittedly, I enjoyed this book more than I anticipated! For a book with romantic sub-plots, that aspect of the narrative didn’t dominate the plot and/or take away from the fantasy elements of the storyline. When you think Sarah J. Maas, you think romance. That’s what I went into the book expecting, but in reality the balance is far more suitable to my preference of not too much romance.

I’m glad I took my sister’s advice with this series to try this author with. It was the right choice, and I’m keen to get stuck in with this second book ASAP.

An Arcane Inheritance

As of last week’s Sunday Summary, I was only a few chapters into An Arcane Inheritance. Over the course of this week, progress has picked up a little and I listened to about 3 hours, or around 25% taking into account the x1.25 speed I’m listening to. Not bad, considering I’ve not really had as much solo time and therefore opportunity to listen. I’ve made up for the lack of solo commutes and gym listening time by instead listening before turning in at night. Overall, it’s worked reasonably well. I did have to go back a couple of chapters one night; I fell asleep unusually quickly that night…

Now I’m further into the book, I’ve got a better feel of the narrative direction and I like where it’s going. I’m intrigued by the magic, symbolism and occult vibes plaguing Ellory. There’s definitely a mystery to unravel here and I can’t wait to listen on to figure out more. As far as the dark academia genre experience is going, I’m loving revisiting the genre. The character dynamic between Ellory and Hudson is more tolerable than the early chapters. Well, at least a bit healthier. A bit…

1984

Whilst not strictly contributing to any breeding challenge books, 1984 is on my fixed reading list for 2026 as I set out in my 2026 resolutions. Not only that, but the companion book I want to read alongside it, Julia, does qualify for the Goodreads 2026 Winter challenge. Before I go into that retelling, I want to pick up 1984 and refresh myself on the original world as set out by George Orwell.

As of this Sunday Summary, I am currently 126 pages into the book. I’ve enjoyed reading all of the setup in the first section of the book to appreciate the detail and nuances of the dystopian world. When reading these books over a stretch of time, it’s easy to forget the details. That’s precisely why I wanted to pick up the original 1984 novel first before reading the retelling on my March TBR. Although this is my third read of the book, I’m not bored with revisiting the book. I had sizeable chunks of time between the re-reads so it doesn’t feel repetitive.

Wild Dark Shore

A priority read on this Sunday Summary was starting and finishing Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy.

I had a notification from Libby that my digital download of this library loan was due earlier today. By the time I looked at this notification, I had just over two days left to read the book. But, unfortunately I was unable to extend my loan. How dare other people want to read the same book as me and put a hold on it, right?! 😅

So, with all due haste, I started and finished this 298 page book in a relatively short time. Thankfully, this book and its mystery is very compulsively readable. Did I read it a little quicker than I would have in other circumstances? Probably yes. However, I was gripped by the storyline and having the deadline didn’t jeopardise my enjoyment of the book.

I have to say, this book wasn’t quite what I expected. However, it was also a little bit better. It was very cleverly written, which is what I expected. The storyline and The mystery were a bit of a different angle than I anticipated, but that’s okay! It was nice to be surprised and it helped overall with my wanting to pick up this book.

The good news is, reading Wild Dark Shore contributes to 2 Goodreads achievements this week. I’m now 8 out of 12 achievements in towards the Goodreads 2026 Winter challenge.

Books Discovered

Thankfully, this week I’ve ticked a couple of books off my list and there are no new additions. I’ve added quite a few books to the TBR of late. This week, I haven’t added anything new, so I’m making progress back towards the 200 books mark.

Interestingly, I caught a bit of a milestone when looking at my books recorded on Goodreads. According to my Goodreads records, I’ve got a total of 500 different books ‘Read’ 🎊🎉

Coming Up…

If you were salty with me for revelling in being off work this week, you can laugh now. I’m back to the daily grind in less than 12 hours, and it promises to be busy! Still, it’s no excuse and I won’t be slacking off of content creation…

Blog

On the blog next week, I’ll be taking a look at the longest of books nominated for the 2026 Booker Prize. The list was published last month, and reviewing whether each book is something I want to read or not. I’ve never paid much attention to this list before, so it could be fun. If there are enough books I want to read, maybe I’ll make a readalong or some kind of challenge to incorporate these into my reading list later this year.

On Friday, my usual Shelf Control feature will go live and share a non-fiction about one of my favourite tv series (based on books, obviously). It’s one I’ve been looking forward to getting to, so it’ll be fun to share this on Friday and get psyched to pick up the book!

YouTube

I’ve recorded two videos today that I’ll edit and push out next week. The first of these is my review of Throne of Glass. I wanted to document my thoughts on this first book of the series before I get stuck in to Crown of Midnight. That way, my view can’t be coloured by what I’ve ready later.

Later in the week, I’ve got a list of dystopian book recommendations if you enjoy books like 1984. In this video, I share what these dystopian books are about, as well as their similarities and differences compared to 1984. Hopefully in this video you can find a recommendation of a new book to pick up.

Summary

This Sunday Summary is a sizeable update. If you’re still with me – thanks for sticking around!

Have you read any of the books featured today? If not, what are you currently reading?

First Lines Friday – 13/03/2026

Posted on March 13, 2026 by fantasyst95

***Today’s First Lines Friday contains an affiliate link to Amazon if you wish to purchase the book. If you follow this link, I will earn a small commission from that purchase at no cost to you.

If you wish to obtain a copy of the book based on this review, I would really appreciate you following this link and showing my content some support by making your purchase.***

When I shared my plan for this First Lines Friday in my Sunday Summary, I challenged myself to feature an author I’ve read recently. This author featured on my February TBR.

Why not read the below opening lines and see if you can guess the author!

“Can you please tell us what happened, Mrs. Cass?” “Am I under arrest?”

“Why do you ask that?”

“I know what you found. I know what you must be thinking.”

“What do you think we found, Mrs. Cass?”

“A… a dead body.”

“And can you explain how this happened?”

“I…”

“Mrs. Cass?”

“Am I under arrest? Please just tell me.”

The Perfect Son – Freida McFadden

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 320

Audience: Adult

Publisher: Hollywood Upstairs Press

Publication Date: 08 Oct 2019

Goodreads – The Perfect Son

Amazon Purchase Link

All families have secrets. But some secrets are deadly.

Erika Cass has a perfect family and a perfect life. Until one quiet evening, two detectives show up at her front door.

“Mrs. Cass, we were hoping your son could answer a few questions about the girl who disappeared last night…”

A high school girl has vanished from their quiet neighbourhood, and the police suspect the worst. Erika’s teenage son, Liam, was the last person to see the girl alive.

Erika has always sensed something… different in her seemingly perfect oldest child. He’s charming, smart, and popular, but mothers have the best instincts. Erika knows there’s more to her son than meets the eye.

She wants to believe he’s innocent, but as the evidence mounts, she can’t deny the truth? Liam may have done the unthinkable.

My Thoughts…

When I planned this First Lines Friday, I knew I wanted to feature Freida McFadden. I was introduced to her through her Housemaid series. They’re highly popular books, but there is also a film on the first book now if you want to try her work that way.

In my Highly Anticipated Releases of 2026 video, I shared my first read and release of the year to look at was a Freida McFadden book. The title? Dear Debbie. This read went down every bit as well as I expected. My review will follow on YouTube soon, so if you want to look out for that, I’d suggest subscribing so you get notified when it comes out.

Needless to say, now I’ve read and loved the latest release by Freida, I’m free to explore her backlist. I sampled a few books before deciding on today’s First Lines Friday feature. All sounded good, but this one had the most gripping intro for the purpose of this post. I also looked at Never Lie and Want to Know a Secret. Over time, I plan to read all of these…

Have you read The Perfect Son or one of the MANY other reads by Freida McFadden?

Don’t forget, you can support me as a creator and follow this purchase link to get yourself a copy. 😊 If you want to read and discuss the book, let me know you want to buddy read!

Thanks for checking out today’s First Lines Friday, and I’ll see you in my next post!