During my time stuck at home while self-quarantined, I initially struggled with being able to sit down and read a book. For some reason, my mind was unable to relax and get lost in the pages. During this time, I chose to listen to books instead. I found it easier to follow a story while listening instead of trying to focus. These Audible books kept me company on my many walks and afternoons spent hunched over a jigsaw puzzle. Eventually, I was able to enjoy reading again (thanks to my neighbor who slipped me an advance copy of a book by one of my favorite mystery writers Camilla Lackberg). Below is a list of books that I either listened to or read the hardcover version while stuck at home during the quarantined time.
Eight Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson: A+
This is my kind of book! A murderer using a blog post entitled “Eight Perfect Murders” as his roadmap for killing. This short page-turner takes place in Boston where a mystery bookstore owner finds himself at the center of a murder investigation. After publishing a list of his favorite unsolvable murders (based on books by the best mystery writers of all time), he and an ambitious FBI agent try to track down a serial killer whose crimes appear eerily similar to those on the list. Fans of Agatha Christie, Donna Tartt, and Strangers on a Train will love all of the delicious mystery references. Read this in one day, soooo good.
The Golden Cage by Camilla Läckberg: A
Camilla Lackberg is one of my favorite mystery writers, so when my neighbor offered me an advance copy of her latest book, I jumped at the chance. The Golden Cage is out now, so you are in luck too. This story of revenge reminded me a little bit of The Count of Montecristo, but with a pinch of Gone Girl tossed in. “An exhilarating new novel from a global superstar–a sexy, over-the-top psychological thriller that tells the story of the scorned wife of a billionaire and her delicious plot to get her revenge and bring him to his knees.”
The Chestnut Man by Søren Sveistrup: A-
From the creator of the tv show The Killing, comes this debut about a serial killer who leaves rustic chestnut men at each crime scene. This was a typical thriller/whodunit and I am always down for that! “A pair of detectives must put aside their differences to piece together the Chestnut Man’s gruesome clues. No one is safe.”
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle: A-
This book was not what I expected. From the description on Goodreads, I thought it would be a cute romantic comedy (and it had its moments), but I did not anticipate the change in direction half way through. Ultimately, when I accepted this new path for the characters, I enjoyed it very much. “Brimming with joy and heartbreak, In Five Years is an unforgettable lie story that reminds us of the power of loyalty, friendship, and the unpredictable nature of destiny.”
Open Book by Jessica Simpson: A-
This book was great to listen to while I did puzzles and went on walks. Narrated by Simpson herself, this juicy memoir covers everything from her abuse as a tween, her relationships with Nick Lachey and John Mayer, and her battles with addiction. Open Book is Jessica Simpson using her voice, heart, soul, and humor to share things she’s never shared before. A guilty pleasure. As a bonus on the audio version, she sings some of her latest songs.
Long Bright River by Liz Moore: B+
I had such high hopes for this book. Every review I read raved about it and mentioned keywords that I always look for: mystery, thriller, page-turner. Luckily it was an easy read and before I knew it I was more than halfway through before I questioned if I liked it or not. It was a well-told story, transitioning between then and now, keeping the reader hooked. But, there was something lacking. That “something” that makes it an A read. I did enjoy the character development and the scenes as they played out in and around Philadelphia. However, it didn’t click with me. Maybe because I read it right after Eight Perfect Murders, which I loved. It’s definitely worth a read. Let me know how if you like it…
The Wives by Tarryn Fisher: B+
This one was a bit twisted as well. Sort of a sister-wife kind of story, it is both disturbing and compelling at the same time. Enter Thursday, our narrator. “Thursday’s husband, Seth, has two other wives. She’s never met them, and she doesn’t know anything about them. She agreed to this unusual arrangement because she’s so crazy about him. But one day, she finds something. Something that tells a very different – and horrifying – story about the man she married. What follows is one of the most twisted, shocking thrillers you’ll ever hear.” Ummmm, yep!
Darling Rose Gold by Stephanie Wrobel: B+
Ok, this one checks the box for “crazy”. Who doesn’t love a twisted mother/daughter story? Amazon: “For the first eighteen years of her life, Rose Gold Watts believed she was seriously ill. She was allergic to everything, used a wheelchair, and practically lived at the hospital. Neighbors did all they could, holding fundraisers and offering shoulders to cry on, but no matter how many doctors, tests, or surgeries, no one could figure out what was wrong with Rose Gold. Turns out her mom, Patty Watts, was just a really good liar.” Don’t worry, there is a twist! Interested yet?
The House Keeper by Natalie Barelli: B
Another Audible download. More puzzles, and more books to listen to. Again, I was hoping for something original here, but it was more of the same kind of “stalking for revenge” story. There were a few cool unexpected twists, and the NYC references were fun too. Not much to sink your teeth into, but entertaining nonetheless.
The Missing Sister by Elle Marr: B-
I downloaded this one on Audible and listened to it while I completed a few puzzles. It had so much potential with smart characters, an international missing person search, and a twist with a pair of identical twins. Despite its many twists and turns, it just didn’t deliver the punch I was hoping for. Still, it was entertaining to listen to.
Next up: Normal People by Sally Rooney, Writers & Lovers by Lily King, and Little Secrets by Jennifer Hillier.
How do I find these titles to recommend to you? I read a lot, but I also refer to trusted book reviews on Goodreads, the NY Times, and Kirkus. I belong to a book club with opinionated readers, and I live next door to a local bookstore insider who lends me advance copies! Basically, I do the legwork so you don’t have to. For more titles, browse previous Book Blast posts or visit my Amazon store. Keep reading!
