Ready to get lost in a good book?
Here, you’ll find a variety of book reviews, reflections on my 30-book challenge for the year, and insights on how fiction can be an escape and a way to slow down. Whether you're exploring new genres, looking for your next read, or seeking inspiration to carve out time for yourself, this is the place for you. Take the Reading Escape Quiz and dive into more books and rediscover the joy of getting lost in a great story.
A Man of Honour by Simon Smith
Simon Smith’s A Man of Honour begins with a thrilling premise—the attempted assassination of Prince Albert in 1860s Australia. The first chapters draw you in with vivid descriptions and intriguing characters, but as the story progresses, the pacing slows, and the emotional stakes falter. While the writing remains strong, the lack of momentum leaves the story feeling more like a chore than an escape by the end. If you’re looking for a slow-burn historical tale focused on character development, this might still be worth your time. But for those after a faster, more immersive experience, it may not deliver.
Three Hours in Paris by Cara Black
Three Hours in Paris is a thrilling historical fiction novel that takes us into a high-stakes "what if" scenario—what if a female assassin had the chance to kill Hitler during World War II? Set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Paris, this action-packed story blends espionage, suspense, and thrilling plot twists.
The Darkest Sin by D.V. Bishop
The Darkest Sin is a historical murder mystery set in the 16th century in Florence, Italy. The story follows an investigation into a murder at a convent, where secrets and intrigue lurk beneath the surface. As someone who has explored Florence and even married in Siena, this book brought vivid memories to life. I could almost smell the cobblestones and imagine myself walking along the iconic Ponte Vecchio.