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.
Opal by Patricia Wolf
Opal was exactly what I needed to break up my reading list—a fast-paced mystery with just the right amount of grit. Atmospheric, suspenseful, and easy to devour in a few sittings, it delivered a classic whodunit with an Aussie twist. I picked it up for a long weekend and flew through it.
The Year of the Locust by Terry Hayes
An intense, globe-trotting thriller with cinematic flair. From the author of I Am Pilgrim, The Year of the Locust is a bold, high-stakes espionage story that had me hooked from the first chapter. Packed with twists, action, and just enough emotional depth to keep it grounded, this book was exactly the kind of fast-paced escape I’d been craving. If you're in the mood for a smart, sprawling spy novel, this one’s worth the wait.
The Beach Party by Nikki Smith
The Beach Party is one of those books that gently pulls you into a world of nostalgia, mixed with a healthy dose of suspense. Set against the sun-soaked backdrop of Mallorca, it’s a story that takes you back to the carefree 1980s while keeping you hooked in the present with a mystery that slowly unfolds. If you're looking to escape with some drama and tension but without diving into anything too heavy, this could be a great pick.
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.
Oracle by Thomas Olde Heuvelt
Oracle is a chilling dive into the unknown, blending sci-fi, horror, and mystery in a gripping tale about a ghost ship that mysteriously appears in a small field, with people vanishing around it. This was my first venture into the horror genre, and while I’m more of a murder mystery fan, I found Oracle to be an intriguing and satisfying introduction. The eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot kept me hooked, eagerly turning pages to see what would unfold next.