The Book Was Better

  When Detective Seth Winslow takes a temporary assignment in a small Missouri town, it's a stark contrast to his time in New York. The locals take care of their own -- and keep each others' secrets. But it might just take an outside perspective to stop a serial killer who's targeting women with long blonde hair: women who look suspiciously like his key witness, Claire. Seth is sure there's something shady going on, but as he gets closer to the truth -- and to Claire -- he risks putting everything on the line.  This was pro-level, unputdownable writing. Seth was a flawed, but endearing hero. The setting was authentic and raw, and the level of depravity was bone-chilling. I appreciated Chief Wells' role and accountability. Like Seth, I also found Claire difficult not to like. While the mystery was not a hard one to solve, the depth and twists were unexpected and shocking.  Huge thank you to the author for taking me along for this pre-read ride!  Nowhere Good: ★★★★★

When Adrienne and her young daughter dash out the door and speed away from her abusive husband, she has only one place to go: home. But home hasn't been a safe harbor for Adrienne in quite some time, so she's not sure if she'll be accepted by her callous mother. While her welcome is less-than-welcoming, her sweet five year-old is readily accepted and she's able to start building a life again -- until she runs into her former best friend. Simon is everything she remembered and more, but can they put their rift aside and reveal their long-harbored feelings? Or will the danger that still awaits Adrienne put an end to any happily-ever-afters?  As cliche as it might sound, this book spoke to me. From the spiritual questioning to the heart-breaking violence and strained relationships. The emotional depth and surprising heaviness were well balanced with moments of sweet tenderness and undercurrent of a classic romance. The writing was eloquent, well-paced, and page-turning.  C...