Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington (Splinter Effect #2)

Double Shadow by Andrew Ludington (Splinter Effect #2) (NetGalley ARC, pub 4/21) ⭐⭐⭐⭐This was a bit slow for the first 25% and then started to pick up and engaged me a lot more. A lot of the ancient history goes over my head but I like the descriptions and the character development, plus this book had some pretty exciting action in the final third. The two primary characters in the first book got a lot more development in this one and both become more likeable. I also enjoyed that some of the story included more modern times. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

My Dear You by Rachel Khong

My Dear You by Rachel Khong (NetGalley ARC, pub 4/7) Both of Khong's novels were 5 stars for me, but this short story collection veers off into speculative/dystopian fiction which is not my thing. The writing is great but the themes are strange and disturbing - not for me. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. 

A Far-Flung Life by M.L. Stedman

A Far-flung Life by M.L. Stedman (NetGalley ARC, pub 3/3) ⭐⭐⭐💫 Beautiful writing, interesting setting (Western Australia), and a good family drama, but just too dark for me and just too sweeping to hold my attention properly. It is definitely an uncomfortable read. Multiple content warnings. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

The Minotaur Sampler, Volume 20: New Books to Make Your Heart Race

The Minotaur Sampler, Volume 20: New Books to Make Your Heart Race - I read this sampler on a dark and stormy night which was the perfect backdrop. This collection offers multiple subgenre flavors with touches of espionage, historical fiction, and romance. Despite telling myself "I'll just take a peek but I do not need more books right now" I did indeed end up grabbing full ARCs of I, Spy by L.M. Kemp and The Anniversary by Alex Finlay, two authors who are new to me. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Beattie Cavendish and the Highland Hideaway by Mary-Jane Riley

Beattie Cavendish and the Highland Hideaway by Mary-Jane Riley - 4.5 stars This second book in the series charmed me even more than the first and I think as it continues I will become even more attached to the characters. This book featured a terrific sense of place in the chilly Scottish Highlands while expanding the character development of Beattie and Patrick. It also provided more of Beattie's backstory and featured her mysterious uncle. Definitely recommended for fans of historical mysteries. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!

Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson (NetGalley ARC, pub 2/10)

Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson (NetGalley ARC, pub 2/10) I appreciated the themes around the biracial babies of post-war Germany and the experiences of the three primary characters during the late 40s to late 60s. The story rotates between these three characters before they eventually intersect, but the split focus limits the character development. While some of the story is quite touching, many of the situations feel overly convenient and predictable so it felt somewhat simplistic at times. I think there could be a lot more depth with a tighter focus. It was fascinating to learn that this was largely based on a true story and I hope more of these stories will continue to be told. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

The Astral Library by Kate Quinn (NetGalley ARC, pub 2/17)

The Astral Library by Kate Quinn (NetGalley ARC, pub 2/17) ⭐⭐⭐⭐ This story started a little bit slow to me and I found the main character's backstory more tedious than sympathetic. But once we made it to the Astral Library the story picked up and I loved how imaginative it was. There were no huge surprises but I enjoyed the ride and the cast of supporting characters, especially The Librarian. A modern story for the timeless value of books and the sanctuary of libraries. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.