The Book Was Better

  In this second installment out of charming Story Lake, we find Hazel's agent/best friend, Zoey, and Cam's younger brother, Gage, fighting off an instant attraction that they know will end in disaster. Or will it?  Embracing the tropes of small-town-romance and opposites attract, Lucy scores once again (see what I did there?) and proves she's not only the master of Rom-Coms, but also of sibling relationships. With hilarious wit and not-too-much physical humor, Mistakes Were Made balances comedy with real depth. Zoey's relatable insecurity and scattered-ness and Gage's imperfect perfection set the perfect tone in a messy, loving family who is still overcoming true loss.  Zoey and Hazel's friendship is a terrific example of women cheering each other on, and the Bishop family continues to represent #familygoals with their comical banter and genuine affection.  Minus a few formatting issues with the e-book version, this one is a win.  Mistakes Were Made: ★★★★★

  I mean, is any woman really ever good enough for her mother-in-law? When Addison's MIL passes away, she vows to put her own feelings about the woman who never accepted her away, to focus on supporting her husband in his grief. But as family secrets and paranormal frights creep into the mix, can Addison hold her tongue?  Conradt's exquisite prose sets such a creepy mood that I just had to keep reading -- preferably with a light on. I loved the reverse symbolism of the crows and the undercurrent of draw-you-in suspense. My only hesitations were a few moments of over-psychoanalysis that made the plot drag at times.  Overall, this one is a keeper and I am thankful to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the advance read!  The Secret Attic: ★★★★3/4 

Most girls look forward to prom, but not Ruby. Since seeing the gruesome ghost of her dead self, she's a little busy investigating her own possible murder and the corrupt underbelly of her idyllic town.  It takes a lot to surprise me, but this one at least 25% shocked me. Part of that was due to some underdeveloped characters, but mostly it was really good plotting.  Parker's novel may be filled with teens, but they certainly know the meaning of "ride-or-die". For a YA read, there was surprising depth: from the friendships and familial bonds, to the themes of retaliation, greed, and embracing life. This was the perfect blend of suspense, a pinch of horror, rich figurative language, and just a touch of romance. Un-put-downable.  You're Dead to Me: ★★★★3/4