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Top Ten Tuesday: Seasonal Vibes
October 28, 2025
Top Ten Tuesday is a meme hosted by The Artsy Read Girl.
Each week features a book related topic to spotlight your Top Ten.
Topic:
Seasonal Vibes
Not going to lie, I'm not a Halloween person at all. I don't like jump scares. I look at things logically, and half the time I'm thinking that isn't real and the other time, I'm thinking that isn't scary, it's gross to be gross. Then on top of that dealing with kids that don't like to be scared and trying to keep them calm, I'm more of a Fall person then Halloween. Give me leaves, hot chocolate, the beautiful fall color pallet from August 1st to October 31st ...then it becomes Christmas!
One thing I do like about the Fall Season, it gets darker. It feels more cozy. Fuzzy blankets, fire places (sometimes, we're fighting to get out of the 90's and into fall weather right now), just the snuggliness of the season.
Despite the dislike for spooky stuff in general, I do like reading a decent gothic style read. I like the darker undertones or settings without the creepiness. I usually like to read a lot of light and happy contemporary romances, or intriguing historical fictions, or bright and captivating fantasy, but sometimes, a darker story is needed.
Some of these have already been featured recently, but they just fit so well for this topic, I had to showcase them again.
by Jessica DottaThis series has the classic gothic romance feel that leaves you hooked, needing to know what will happen and how in the heck, did that happen? This is a series I couldn't put down and I recommend to everyone. It leaves you with your jaw on the floor multiple times, never knowing what will be thrown at you next.
The Shepherd King Duologyby Rachel GilligThis series is set in a misty world. The mist is always there, it already has this ominous feel to the story with what is hidden in the mist. Add in the other aspects of mystery, it has a very interesting gothic feel.
by Elizabeth CamdenThis is a historical fiction book, rich in history. The backdrop of this story gives it that moody, kind of greyish, wiped out feeling. Then as the story unfolds and you see what this story is about and how it affects the people, and it to me gives off that gothic feel for me, even though not.
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by Jaime Jo WrightI will say, it's not just these 3 stories from Jaime Jo Wright, but all of her stories. Her books offer such a unique feel when you read them, it's hard not to get caught up in them. These are all duel time line mysteries with just a pinch of the spooky feel, without being spooky-spooky. The mystery is the driving force. It makes you question and the feel of the books really make them all the more fun.
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by Morgan L. BusseSteampunk, ominous mist, purges, sky pirates. It definitively has the more darker vibe, but without the grossness of a horror story this is an interesting sci-fi / mystery. This is a YA read of people surviving high up in the mountains away from a killer mist. The search is on, on how to cure the mist, so people can live freely again, but who wants it to continue?
by Tracy HigleyTracy Higley has written some fabulous ancient history based stories, this is one of them set in the rock city of Petra. This book set in a city of stone with an evil queen plotting, has a very dark feel about it. It's not spooky, but it has an intensity to it. The interesting setting and the ominous feel give it that feel of the season, without the spook.
by John FaubionMystery Thriller read all the way. It's a little older read, so the tech listed is already outdated, but the story was one that left me hooked. It is a creepy ready, because we know things like this have happened. Dateline previews have already shown that! This was such a nail biter at times and the villain is written in such a way, it makes you want to reach through the book.
by Lori LangdonThis is an atmospheric read, perfect for the season. Mystery/ thriller, who-done-it style. Mixed with some romance. This is one of those books that is perfect for the time of the year. It has that darker undertone, but not one that will jump out in your face and then laugh and run away. This is a build up, secrets are uncovered, it leaves you guessing till the reveal.
This week was a bit of a modge-podge of series and stand-alones.
What do you like to read this time of year?
Do you like to read atmospheric stories all year, do you like the atmosphere to fit the time of year for you?
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The Curious Realities Duology by Sara Ella (Mini Reviews)
March 10, 2025
Have you read these books yet?
What were your thoughts?
Have you read any other Sara Ella books? What would you recommend next?
Blog Blitz: Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch (JustRead Tour w/ Excerpt & Giveaway)
June 28, 2022
Welcome to the Blog Tour for Her Darkest Secret by Jessica R. Patch, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Title: Her Darkest Secret
Author: Jessica R. Patch
Publisher: Harlequin Love Inspired TRADE
Release Date: June 28, 2022
Genre: Christian, Psychological Thriller with a romance thread
When a cold-case serial killer returns, FBI special agent Fiona Kelly has one last chance to stop him before he claims the prize he’s always wanted—her.The sight of a goose feather at a murder scene modeled after a children’s poem is enough to make FBI special agent Fiona Kelly’s blood turn to ice. Almost two decades ago, a feather was left with her sister’s body—and with every subsequent victim of the Nursery Rhyme Killer. Now he’s back. Only this time, his latest gruesome murder is a message to the only one who ever got away: Fiona. Finding “Rhyme” is an obsession that’s fueled Fiona’s career—and destroyed her marriage to fellow FBI agent Asa Kodiak. Now Fiona and Asa have to put their past tensions aside and work together one last time. But Rhyme is watching, and catching this killer may force Fiona to reveal her biggest, darkest secret…the one only he knows.
PURCHASE LINKS*: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookDepository | IndieBound | BookBub
EXCERPT:
Rhyme easily blended in with the rest of the on looking crowd.
Asa Kodiak.
The name alone gave him a sour taste on his tongue, but things couldn’t have panned out any better. Kodiak’s new girlfriend was in charge of the crime scene. Not that it would have mattered who had been lead—Kodiak would have been called in once they saw Jenny’s body. Saw the feather.
Asa was right now seeing it. A million thoughts flying through his thick skull—one in particular.
Before the day was out, Kodiak would call for Fiona. Tell her he needed her back in Memphis towork the case, but she’d know that it was Rhyme who had actually beckoned her.It was time to come home.To him.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
CONNECT WITH JESSICA: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a signed paperback of Her Darkest Secret, Brain Games WHODUNIT: Solve Crime Scene Puzzles Book, & a Shine cross necklace!
Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight June 28, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on July 5, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.
Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.
Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!
*NOTE: This post contains affiliate links.
Review: To Disguise a Truth by Jen Turano
May 20, 2022
Author: Jen Turano
Publisher: Bethany House
Pages: 347
ISBN: 9780764235337
Publication Date: January 18th, 2022
About the Book:
When a man arrives at the Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency, anxious to hire them to find a missing heiress, Eunice Holbrooke realizes her past has finally caught up with her . . . and that she may no longer be able to hide under the disguise that has kept her safe for so long.
Arthur Livingston's goal in life is to make his mark on the world as a mining industrialist, but after the man who could help him achieve his goal is murdered, Arthur feels compelled to seek justice for the family--but he's left with more questions than answers after the eccentric Bleecker Street Inquiry Agency refuses to take on his case.
Desperate to conceal her real identity and avoid the irritatingly handsome Arthur, Eunice takes on a different case that requires her to go deep undercover and entangles her in one troublesome situation after another. When other secrets come to light, Eunice has no choice but to confront her past, hopeful that it will set her free but knowing it could very well place her life--and the lives of those she loves--in jeopardy.
My Thoughts:
I'm going to admit, I read this series completely out of order, but that is ok. This story works as a standalone as well. I've been wanting to read this one for a while and finally was able to. My eldest is a huge fan of Jen Turano, so it is a lot of fun to read her books together. We got the audio and dove right on in on our commute.
Eunice Holbrooke is a unique character. She has to have one of the strongest personalities to date of Jen Turano's books. She is one who is determined to keep her people safe. However, Ivan her bodyguard/ pretend brother is determined to keep her safe, which is a feat unto itself with Enice's determination to be more hands on and on the ground with her Inquiry Agency.
Author Livingstone is a man who you want to be weary at when first introduced to, but as you read more into who he is, the more you hope things work out. He is a gentleman determined to protect a woman he hasn't seen in years despite their history.
This story went all over and it was a thrill a minute. I love how this story featured Nellie Bly's research and offer a glimpse into this time. My daughter was horrified how women could have been treated during this time. Laws for women have come a long way for sure and opened up a good talking point.
Eunice was a delight to read about. Her story arc to me has been the most redeeming. She had to work through previous demons and fears and rely on faith. Her family situation was a very unique one and one that was completely out of her control. But when introduced her family it offered a whole new level into Eunice's character.
Safe to say, once this title was complete, me and my daughter dove into the first book of the series.
The narrator for this story did another wonderful job. It has been the same narrator for her other series as well, so it's a welcoming voice that reads to you.
Can't recommend this book enough.
5 out of 5
About the Author:
Thank you to the publisher, I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
The Story Hunter by Lindsay A. Franklin
November 1, 2021
Title: The Story Hunter
Author: Lindsay A. Franklin
Publisher: Enclave Publishing
Pages: 360
Length: 10 hrs, 30 mins
ISBN: 9781621841227
Publication Date: May 19th, 2020
About the Book:
Redeeming the past is a fatal quest.In the wake of a deadly coup, the capital city of Urian has descended into chaos. Heartbreak and bloodshed await Tanwen and her friends as they discover the unlikeliest leader now rules Tir.If they want to save the realm, Tannie and the Corsyth weavers must rescue Queen Braith and unmask the Master, ending the strife once and for all. But the success of their hunt depends upon an ally no one trusts.The Master has a new target in sight: fragile, trauma-scarred Digwyn, whose unique weaving ability could turn the tide of any war. When the desire for vengeance proves too powerful for Digwyn to resist, Tanwen must face a terrifying truth: the fate of Tir rests in the hands of a volatile, shattered girl.
My Thoughts:
What an adventure this trilogy has been! I'm sad that is over, but I honestly can't wait to see Lindsay A. Franklin will share with us next.
Action, adventure, conclusion. This book had so much. Even though this was the conclusion, it opened up the minds of a few more characters and their thoughts. I wasn't sure how it would work to open the perspective up to more, but goodness, it was needed to really flush out the depths of this story.
The extra eyes really allowed the character arc to pop, and I'm glad we had that with Brack. His arc has come a long way and this conclusion was so fitting. Tannie stayed strong and true through it all. Braith was as kind and sharp. Digwyn had me all over the place, sorry for her, aching for her, then questioning what was really going on. Mor has grown into a man of caring and compassion. All of these characters have grown and changed since book one. Following on their journey has been one I was sad to see end.
Through this fantasy world, the heartache, redemption, and love really play such an important part in this story. All are injured from this world, but there is true healing out there.
Lindsay has such a beautiful writing style and it flows.
I read this book with my daughter in the car. She loved it as well, she wanted the whole set for her birthday. She got it. This was a story that was really perfect for young teens and adults.
The audio of this book was captivating. The narrator and her voices add to the story and never distracted from it.
This was a great read and such a fulfilling conclusion.
4 out of 5
The Ballad of Song Birds and Snakes by Suzanne Collins
September 3, 2021
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 439
ISBN: 9781338635171
Publication Date: May 19th, 2020
About the Book:
It is the morning of the reaping that will kick off the tenth annual Hunger Games. In the Capital, eighteen-year-old Coriolanus Snow is preparing for his one shot at glory as a mentor in the Games. The once-mighty house of Snow has fallen on hard times, its fate hanging on the slender chance that Coriolanus will be able to outcharm, outwit, and outmaneuver his fellow students to mentor the winning tribute.The odds are against him. He's been given the humiliating assignment of mentoring the female tribute from District 12, the lowest of the low. Their fates are now completely intertwined -- every choice Coriolanus makes could lead to favor or failure, triumph or ruin. Inside the arena, it will be a fight to the death. Outside the arena, Coriolanus starts to feel for his doomed tribute... and must weigh his need to follow the rules against his desire to survive no matter what it takes.
My Thoughts:
I've enjoyed the Hunger Games since they came out years ago. I have read and re-read the series multiple times. However, they have sat on my shelves for the last couple of years as I've been reading other books as they have been delivered to the door. That changed when my daughter wanted to read them after we had finished Harry Potter. We made it through The Hunger Games Trilogy, she loved it! She wanted to read the prequel next, so we dove on in.
I think if we had read the prequel first, it would have definitly changed up the views on the series some, but since we were traveling back in time, it was interesting to see how Suzanne Collins was able to morph this well known story into something new.
I will admit, I read quite a few reviews on this story before reading it, I had to see what people were saying. I didn't agree with a lot of them. I actually enjoyed looking back on Snow's life. I like seeing what decisions led him to where he went. Granted I like villians too. Snow from the beginning is a guy who knows what he wants, and feel entitled to it. He is smart, he is cunning, and he knows he's good looking and willing to use that and whatever conections, real or fake he has created to get what he wants.
I actually enjoyed reading through him. It wasn't the action packed books that The Hunger Games were, but it was a tactical book. It was a thoughtful book. How can one person do as much as they did? When you have the mindset and fortitude, and desire, it can be done.
On the other side, we had Lucy Gray. She was an interesting character for sure, but I didn't like her as much as Snow. She wasn't an innocent girl. She was just as sneaky and underhanded as Snow, just in another way. She knew how to play to people and gain sympothy and attention.
When you brought the two together, they played well off of each other. Both had weakness and strengths. They each used them to their advantages. And the two of them made the Games into what we know of them.
Next, we have Sejanus, a classmate of Snow. Overly sympatheitc. He moved to the Capitol when was young, but never became Capitol. It was through his actions, that showed, changes that needed to happen with the tributes, but it was also the changes that he definitly wasn't thinking. He was thought of as district sympathizer. At the beginning I got what he was saying and thinking, however, as the story progressed, he leaned heavily to the extreme, and in all honesty, I agreed with Snow on how Sejanus was acting and where it would lead to. Sejanus focuesed too much on feelings and didn't use his brains to bring around the change he wanted.
I enjoyed this book. I kind of hope that there is another, I liked seeing how the ideas were built off of each other. The new characters that were introduced. There is so much more to this world that can be explored. I also get the ending was a play on the song, but I still want solid answers as well! Give me another book please!
4 out of 5
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