"Not a Happy Family"

 "Not a Happy Family" by Shari Lapena 

Money, Money, Money.

Fred and Sheila Merton have lots of it. Just look at their

magnificent home in the exclusive Brecken Hill estates in

upstate New York. Fred's shrewd acumen for business has

afforded him the life of luxury. 

But behind the scenes, the walls of this splendid home would

tell a story of a dysfunctional family with a vindictive, often cruel

patriarch, and a detached mother who couldn't be bothered with 

the monumental task of raising three very different children,

all longing for unconditional love.

The annual, obligatory Easter dinner this year with Fred, Sheila, their 

grown children and significant others, is especially contentious. And 

that night, after all the angry goodbyes, an unknown intruder bludgeons

Fred and Sheila to death, in what police describe as a vicious and 

brutal crime. Clearly someone hated the Mertons with a passion. 

The grieving children, of course, are overwhelmed with shock and

sorrow. But are they really? As recipients of a sizable inheritance, it

isn't long before investigators target each, or all of them, as prime 

suspects in their parents' violent demise. The millions coming their 

way would certainly solve insurmountable problems, but first the 

police have to prove it. 

The Merton family is about as unhappy as a family can be. And it's

been that way for a long time. Just ask Irena, the loyal housekeeper

and nanny who quietly observes every little thing that goes on.

She knows exactly what each child has endured throughout their 

childhoods. As adults, they're all hiding tawdry, salacious secrets, but who 

actually had the motive and means to carry out such a cold-hearted, 

dastardly deed? Then again, maybe the kids weren't the only ones

about to become filthy rich. 

Expect to be thrown off the trail time and time again, until the last

few pages in this fun, one sitting, whodunit with a divinely, delicious

ending.

"We Are the Brennans"

"We Are the Brennans" by Tracey Lange 

Potent secrets and lies by omission threaten to tear apart

a close-knit Irish Catholic family, when one of them returns

to face her painful past. 

Sunday Brennan's decision to drive after an alcohol-fueled

night of partying, forces her to call on the only person who

just might come to her rescue, brother, Denny. Quite a

favor to ask since Sunday suddenly moved five years ago

to Southern California with a flimsy story about a job 

opportunity, leaving her entire family in shock along with

jilted fiance, Kyle. Little do they know, the promise of a

new and exciting life on the West Coast, was only a flimsy

excuse to escape from something she never wanted revealed.  

Denny doesn't hesitate to fly cross country to her hospital bed,

bringing his sister back to the only home she's ever really known

in West Manor, New York. And it's here, where her bruised and 

battered injuries slowly heal, that Sunday is forced to revisit the 

half-truths and shame she's endured for so long. 

In many ways, it's like time has stood still for the Brennan family

since Sunday abruptly left her parents, siblings, and extended 

family to supposedly follow her dream of becoming a writer.

Denny's dealing with a recent separation from a wife and child he

adores, while preparing to open a second family pub with Kyle, who

moved on with a new wife and son after Sunday left him broken-

hearted. Their father Mickey, now old and frail, still rules with a

silent hand, and Shane, the sibling with special needs, is simply

thrilled to have his beloved sister back home.

As the bittersweet homecoming evolves, Sunday becomes more 

determined to start over, even if it means enduring the resentment

that her family has fostered over the last few years. She soon

realizes that they need her support as much as she craves the

closeness they once shared. Financial woes, brought on by Denny,

along with a dangerous scoundrel from way back when, are just a

few of the obstacles standing in the way of Sunday's redemption.

Their survival as a family is dependent on finally exposing agonizing

memories that have festered for so long. 

With a vast array of vulnerable characters that are certain to make 

you feel all sorts of emotions, this passionate drama about family 

loyalty, reminds us that it's never too late to forgive and make amends 

when it involves the people you love. 

 

 

"The Last Commandment"

"The Last Commandment" by Scott Shepherd 

 

It's Christmas in London, but the anticipation and sparkle of the season 

escapes Scotland Yard detective, Austin Grant. Unfulfilled dreams and

regrets haunt him every day since his treasured wife, Allison, died of 

cancer. 

After the New Year, the respected Commander will retire from a distinguished 

career that often took him away from his family. What's left, are bittersweet

memories with pride in a job well done. Austin knows he made a difference

with a devoted wife always by his side. But the unexplained, strained 

relationship he now has with his only daughter, Rachel, a shrewd, investigative

reporter living in New York City, continues to puzzle him, considering the 

closeness they once shared.  

Before he leaves a stellar career behind, dire news brings him back to the 

center of a hideous crime spree. An elusive, serial killer has randomly 

murdered three, innocent victims in London. The assassin then crosses the

sea to viciously take the life of a priest inside the magnificent St. Patrick's

Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan. And the details of his demise, just like

the others, are chilling.  

The disturbed killer leaves a distinctive calling card. Each victim has a set

of  Roman numerals gruesomely etched into their foreheads corresponding 

to an offense against one of the Ten Commandments. Four down, six to go. 

It's a race against time to warn potential targets that a devious mind is intent

on eliminating sinners one by one with The Holy Bible as witness to the crimes. 

When travels take Austin to New York City, he meets another capable cop, 

John Frankel, who's introduced to a certain hot-shot reporter close to 

Austin's heart. As Rachel becomes a vital part of the investigation, the wall

of the father/daughter estrangement begins to crumble. An incredulous truth,

lurking behind painful secrets, puts everyone in peril, as a deranged individual 

inches closer to the end goal.  

Accomplished screenwriter, Scott Shepherd, scores a hit with his debut novel,

creating dynamic characters, and heart-pounding scenarios. Centered around

a vulnerable, but likeable cop, the protagonist is someone that fans will 

undoubtedly want to follow in future adventures. Brisk chapters, gory but 

addictive, and an enticing plot (with a touch of romance), make this mystery 

thriller a welcome addition to your reading list. 

Check it out when it's released on July 13th. 

 

 

 

 

"The Plot"

"The Plot" by Jean Hanff Korelitz

There was a time when Jacob Finch Bonner basked in the

spotlight of penning a popular novel that earned him the

honor of being called an up-and-coming, promising, new author. 

But writers are only as good as their next book in progress.

Jacob hit writer's block a long time ago, and now finds himself 

teaching in the MFA program of  a mediocre college in northern

Vermont, living the monotonous life of a has-been, always hoping

inspiration will strike him when he least expects it.  

His job is to guide and mentor students who aspire to excel in his 

creative writing class. He reads and critiques their submissions,

then encourages others to provide honest, constructive advice. 

Most days, Jacob can barely do what his paycheck requires, but he's

good at pretending, and a smiling face pays the rent.

Then arrogant Evan Parker arrives for the requisite meeting with his

once illustrious professor, scoffing at any help Jacob gives him, insisting

that his novel-to-be has a plot that will sell millions and make him

famous. 

When Jacob finally reads the rough draft, he knows Evan is right. How could

an amateur with a lousy attitude and raw talent come up with a winner like this?

And so Jacob waits for the book to be published, but it never happens, spurring

him to find out why. A little research reveals that Evan Parker met an untimely

death, undoubtedly taking that incredible story with him to his grave. 

So, three years later, Jacob takes the story and makes it his own. Crib brings him

a level of success he always dreamed of, with packed book signings, radio

interviews, and adulation from fellow writers. When a silver-haired beauty later 

becomes his wife, life seems to be pretty close to perfection. He justifies what he's

done by telling himself that he, and he alone, took a fascinating story and turned 

it into a tale that millions are flocking to read. 

But then comes the day when Jacob receives a cryptic message saying 

"You are a thief", that suddenly changes everything. He continues to enjoy fame,

and the whirlwind of meeting admiring fans, while experiencing the pressure to 

grind out another hit release. A persisting, nagging feeling that the past is catching 

up to him just won't go away. Secretly, he begins to delve into the tumultuous life 

of Evan Parker in an attempt to learn who is behind what appears to be extortion. 

And as the pieces begin to fall into place, a chilling discovery turns Jacob's 

uneasiness into terrifying fear. 

This gripping thriller takes the reader on a suspense-filled ride that is truly hard

to put down, especially as the "Plot" begins to slowly unravel with its brilliantly

shrewd twists and turns. It's an incredibly good summer read. 

Kirkus Reviews predicts this one will be flying off the shelves, and I couldn't agree

more. 

 

"The Soulmate Equation"

"The Soulmate Equation" by Christina Lauren

Meet Jess Davis, a soon-to-be thirty, lonely, single mom with a harried

lifestyle. She's been self-sufficient for a long time now, ever since her parents

shirked family responsibilities years ago. But that doesn't stop her partying

mother from showing up at her doorstep for a hand-out now and then. And the

father of her child? He opted to leave, too, as soon as Jess decided to keep

the baby. 

Needless to say, there's little room for romance in Jess's life. In fact, with her 

dubious track record for meeting eligible men, she's not even sure she wants

to try. 

Yet Jess is grateful for so many things in her mundane life. The doting grandparents

that raised her, are now lovingly involved in doing the same with her 

seven-year-old, precocious daughter, Juno. Then there's the flexibility of her

freelance job that showcases what a genius Jess is with data and statistics.

And what would she do without quirky best friend, Fizzy, a successful romance

novelist who finds inspiration from the challenges Jess faces every day? Fizzy 

constantly encourages Jess to venture outside of her protective bubble of laundry,

school projects, and ballet lessons. 

Maybe that's why Jess agrees to be a part of GeneticAlly, a new match-making app 

that pairs prospective partners based on DNA results. Cold, scientific facts have a

certain logical appeal for a numbers guru like Jess. 

Imagine her surprise, when the test results show that Jess and the smug, aloof,

and incredibly attractive founder of the company, Dr. River Pena, 

are an unheard of 98% compatibility match. Considering Jess doesn't like the man

from previous encounters with him at the local coffee shop, it's a hard sell to 

explore a possible budding relationship with him. But when the company offers

to pay her a hefty amount of money to get to know him better, she reluctantly

agrees, fully aware of the growing attraction between them. 

This is another fun-filled, charming selection from a duo that knows how to

write romance with humor and style. Smoldering and steamy with many genuinely

tender moments, the reader will undoubtedly finish this love story with a satisfying

smile. 

 

"The Summer of Lost and Found"

"The Summer of Lost and Found" by Mary Alice Monroe 

Resilient, strong, and determined aptly describe the Rutledge

family. With their fierce sense of commitment and loyalty

to one another, they've survived many challenges and setbacks 

over the years. 

But, like so many others, that toughness of spirit will be tested

in ways they never imagined, as a global pandemic spreads havoc 

around the world. 

For Linnea Rutledge, being furloughed from her dream job at 

the South Carolina Aquarium is a huge disappointment, and a

financial nightmare. It means giving up her privacy to look for 

a roommate to share expenses at Primrose Cottage, a home filled

with  rich, Rutledge history that she cherishes and adores. Emotions 

run high when Linnea discovers that John, the man who rejected

her after an impulsive move to California, is now living next door under 

quarantine with his mother. Their relationship ended with some 

soul-searching on her part, so why is Linnea finding his clever 

overtures to rekindle their romance, increasingly hard to ignore? 

To complicate things, Linnea's new British love interest, Gordon,

is set to return to the Isle of Palms after spending time in England.

Sparks are about to ignite, as Linnea finds herself in an unanticipated

love triangle, with both men vying for her affections. Fearful of making 

the wrong decision only adds to the uncertainty in her already

tumultuous life. 

As always, her Aunt Cara is a solid, soothing source of comfort.

But Cara is facing troubles of her own. Husband David is stricken

with Covid, and must remain in quarantine within their home, 

leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness for Cara. She fears

what exposure could mean for her immune-compromised young

daughter. Her strong marriage is showing the strain of living together,

yet so far apart.  

With a little ingenuity and creativity, this small circle of friends and family

finally unite to overcome the obstacles only a crisis like the pandemic can

bring. 

Mary Alice Monroe's signature style of writing is evident in every chapter of

her newest release. Whether it be the return of the sea turtles, heart-

wrenching family drama, sprinkles of humor, or environmental awareness, 

the message of the healing power of love, always comes shining through.

But this time, the author writes of forgiveness, compassion, and hope

in a more self-reflective, introspective way. We welcome the next Rutledge

generation as they take center stage in this current, compelling story 

showcasing warm, familiar characters we know so well.

"The Newcomer"

"The Newcomer" by Mary Kay Andrews 

Letty Carnahan feels like a fugitive on the run, and that's 

exactly what she is.

It was just hours ago, that Letty found the body of her sister, Tanya,

sprawled on the floor of her swanky New York City townhouse, dead 

from a brutal blow to the head. Panic and fear sets in as Letty vividly

recalls Tanya's recent, uncanny instructions, "if something happens

to me, promise me you'll take Maya and run". Tanya implied that her 

demise would be at the hands of an ex-boyfriend, Evan Wingfield, an

unsavory character with tons of money and power, a man Letty knows 

all too well. 

Wary of Evan's retaliation, and scared that she could be considered 

a suspect, Letty hurriedly leaves NYC with her innocent, precious 

cargo in tow, four-year-old, niece Maya. Letty's eyes are constantly 

checking the rear-view mirror of the battered, cramped Kia that's

taking them to a far away destination where anonymity might save their

lives. 

The duo are headed South, to sunny Florida, after finding a tattered

magazine article featuring The Murmuring Surf Motel, a place Letty thinks

holds the clues to Tanya's former life. Armed with Tanya's hidden "go-bag" 

of cash, and her sister's monstrous, diamond ring, Letty sets out on a 

risky, perilous trip, hoping to stay one step ahead of those who are determined

to find her. 

Despite the yellow "No Vacancy" sign outside the dated motel that surely 

has seen better days, Letty pulls into the parking lot, and manages to talk

her way into staying. At first, the snow-bird regulars find the newcomer to be 

mysterious and offbeat. But in a matter of time, Letty and Maya ingratiate 

themselves with the senior citizens, and become part of this lovable, motley

community.

And all the while, Letty continues to investigate the agonizing murder of her sister,

hoping to find enough evidence to uncover the real killer, before her own world

comes crashing down. Complications arise when Letty finds herself fiercely 

attracted to Joe, a local cop, who just happens to be the son of the motel owner. 

His mission is to find out the real story behind Letty's puzzling arrival, and the

truth about what she's clearly hiding from the authorities. 

Will Joe betray her confidence and turn her in, or will he find it impossible to

deny the growing chemistry he feels when he's around Letty?

A summer without a Mary Kay Andrews beach read is hard to imagine. Luckily, 

her fans won't have to wait long, until this May 4th intriguing, romantic escapade 

is released, just in time for those balmy, leisurely days of relaxation we've all

been waiting for.....