Daughter of Mine by Megan Miranda

Sometimes the darkest secrets are buried the deepest . . .

When Hazel Sharp, daughter of Mirror Lake's longtime local detective, unexpectedly inherits her childhood home, she's warily drawn back to the town - and people - she left behind almost a decade earlier.

But Hazel's not the only relic of the past to return: a drought has descended on the region, and as the water level in the lake drops, long-hidden secrets begin to emerge, including evidence that may help finally explain the mystery of her mother's disappearance .

My thoughts:

Hazel returns home for her father's memorial.  She plans to attend and then get back to her business.  The family attorney tells her that the house has been left to her, and granted as the step-daughter, her brothers are confused, especially Colton. When things begin to rise to the surface literally, Hazel is drawn into the mystery of what really happened to her mother as well as to her best friend that has gone missing.  Pace begins slowly and picks up as the secrets are revealed with a reveal that I figured out Overall a good listen narrated very well by Ines del Castillo

*Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio for this review copy*

Beach House Summer by Sarah Morgan

 

When Joanna Whitman's ex-husband, one of California's most beloved celebrity chefs, dies in a car accident, she doesn't know what to feel. Their dysfunctional marriage held more secrets than she cares to remember, but when she discovers a young woman was with him in the crash--who's now in hospital, on her own, and pregnant --Joanna sees red. How dare he ruin yet another woman's life? More than anyone, Joanna knows the brutal spotlight this girl is going to find herself in...unless she can find a way for them both to disappear?

Ashley can't believe it when Joanna shows up in her hospital room and offers to spirit them both away for the summer to her secluded beach house on the Californian coast. Joanna should be hating her, not helping her. But orphaned and pregnant, Ashley can't turn Joanna down. Even though she knows that if Joanna ever discovers the real truth of why Ashley was in her ex's car, their tentative bond would never hold.

Together, they escape to the beach house, nestled high above the sleepy Californian town where Joanna grew up, and left without a backward glance. Joanna's only goal for the summer is privacy, but her return creates waves in the community, not least for the best friend she left behind. Both Joanna and Ashley are hiding secrets, but as they fall under the spell of their summer home - and draw on each other's courage - these unlikely friends realize that to seize the futures they want, they must step out of the shadows and into the sunshine.

When Joanna's ex-husband dies in a car accident she is surprised to be in the limelight once again. She wants to be done with it all. When the young woman who was in the car is identified she knows her instantly and knows that Ashley will need her help despite her wanting to hide away until the scandal dies down. The press wants to know who Ashley is and who is the father of her baby. Joanna invites her to her childhood home that is secluded despite leaving heartbroken over 20 years ago. Ashley is grateful and they soon begin to help each other move forward. A great story of friends, family, forgiveness and second chances.

Sarah Morgan is a USA Today and Sunday Times bestselling author of contemporary romance and women's fiction. She has sold more than 21 million copies of her books and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives with her family near London, England, where the rain frequently keeps her trapped in her office. Visit her at www.sarahmorgan.com











*Thanks to HQN/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Wrong Victim

 

A bomb explodes on a sunset charter cruise out of Friday Harbor at the height of tourist season and kills everyone on board. Now this fishing and boating community is in shock and asking who would commit such a heinous crime—the largest act of mass murder in the history of the San Juan Islands.

Was the explosion an act of domestic terrorism, or was one of the dead the primary target? That is the first question Special Agent Matt Costa, Detective Kara Quinn, and the rest of the FBI team need to answer, but they have few clues and no witnesses.

Accused of putting profits before people after leaking fuel endangered an environmentally sensitive preserve, the West End Charter company may itself have been the target. As Matt and his team get closer to answers, they find one of their own caught in the crosshairs of a determined killer.

Title

Book three in the Costa and Quinn series has the team arriving in the San Juan Islands after a boat bombing. As they investigate the intended victim(s) has them puzzled. Is it the charter company whose safety records have an environment group protesting or someone on board? Kate's presence on the team has raised some questions and her tactics rub one member the wrong way. Matt is caught in the middle and balances both members while using their investigative methods to solve this crime. When another bombing takes place the tension ramps up with fears of another one to follow. An entertaining, fast-paced read with great character development that has me looking forward to the next installment in this series.

ALLISON BRENNAN is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over thirty novels. She has been nominated for Best Paperback Original Thriller by International Thriller Writers and the Daphne du Maurier Award. A former consultant in the California State Legislature, Allison lives in Arizona with her husband, five kids and assorted pets.

* Thanks to HTP Books for this review copy*

Summer at the Cape

Summer at the Cape is the fourth original hardcover from New York Times, USA TODAY, and Publisher's Weekly bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne. With the emotional pull of Debbie Macomber, Barbara Delinsky, and Susan Wiggs, RaeAnne tells the story of the Porter sisters, Cami and Violet, who come together to mourn the death of Violet's twin, Lily. Over the course of the summer, the sisters must make peace with each other and also individually with their free-spirited, outspoken, activist mother who left their father two decades earlier.

As the older sister to identical twins Violet and Lily, Cami Porter had always been the odd sister out. The breach became even stronger when her parents split up—while the twins stayed in Cape Sanctuary with their free-spirited activist mother, Rosemary, fourteen-year-old Cami moved to L.A. with her by-the-book attorney father, Ted. Nearly twenty years later, when Cami gets the tragic news that Lily has drowned saving a child, Cami returns to her childhood home—her mother and Violet need her.

Lily had spent her entire life looking for something to be passionate about, and in leasing a property from neighbor Franklin Rafferty and setting up Coastal Pines Glamping, she was about to see her dream realized. Following her death, the sadness and grief Rosemary, Violet and Cami feel is compounded by Jon Rafferty, son of the neighbor whose land Lily had leased. Jon, who hadn't seen his father in years, is stunned to learn that his father is in the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease, and he worries that the Porter women took advantage of him. But Jon can see that the Porter family is in mourning, and agrees they can keep the land through the summer, and then they'll need to shut the glamping site down.

Then there's Violet—the child Lily saved, Ariana Mendoza, is the daughter of Violet's former high school sweetheart, Alex Mendoza. She could never forgive him way back when for cheating on her, but she is so grateful that his adorable little girl is okay. Alex still has feelings for Violet, but he is overcome with grief and gratitude at the same time for the loss of Lily, who died saving his child

Sisters Cami and Violet separated by their parent's divorce work their way back to each other after the death of their sister Lily (twin to Violet). While helping their mother bring Lily's glamping dream to fruition they all confront past hurts and find healing and forgiveness. A great book to take on vacation.

New York Times bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her stories have been described as "poignant and sweet" with "beautiful honest storytelling that goes straight to the heart." She loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website at www.raeannethayne.com.

*Thanks to HQN Books/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Summer Getaway by Susan Mallery

Robyn Caldwell’s family is driving her crazy. There’s Harlow, her daughter, who’s engaged to a man she’s only known a short time and is rapidly turning into bridezilla. And her son, Austin, who would rather work with his dad’s family charter boating business than go to college. Her friend, Mindy, who’s playing with fire by contemplating an affair with her tennis instructor. And let’s not forget her ex-husband whose bad behavior has just crossed the line yet again.

Robin needs some time to catch her breath and figure out what her next step should be. So when her beloved aunt Lillian asks her to come to Santa Barbara for an overdue visit, Robyn jumps at the chance. Her aunt Lillian is working on settling her affairs and a distant relative is staying with her that stands to inherit the house. Trouble is the last thing Robyn needs, but she refuses to let her aunt be taken advantage of.

While staying in her aunt’s beautiful, quirky mansion and spending time in the Santa Barbara sunshine with the woman who’s like a mother to her, Robyn will see herself—and the people she loves most—with a bit more clarity. And it will push her to take chances she hadn’t dreamed of before.

But life has a funny way of following you wherever you go. What began as an escape soon becomes an unforgettable adventure…and Robyn is ready to dive in, feet first.

Title

Single mom Robyn has some decisions to make to fulfill her divorce settlement. She has been putting these decision off far too long. The man she is dating turns out to be a jerk, her daughter is turning into bridezilla, her son's plans don't include college, her best friend is contemplating a decision that will ruin her life and to top it off her ex-husband is dating her daughter's future sister-in-law. Robyn has had enough and needs an escape.  When her Aunt Lillian invites her to come out and get a start on cataloging the antiques, Robyn jumps at the chance.  Maybe this time away will help her with the decisions.  Things are going well and then everyone follows her!!  A family drama that is filled with lots of emotions, new romance and reconciliations. 

SUSAN MALLERY is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship and romance. Library Journal says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations," and readers seem to agree—forty million copies of her books have been sold worldwide. Her warm, humorous stories make the world a happier place to live. Susan grew up in California and now lives in Seattle with her husband. She's passionate about animal welfare, especially that of the two Ragdoll cats and adorable poodle who think of her as Mom.

*Thanks to HQN Books/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Vineyard At Painted Moon

MacKenzie Dienes's life isn't perfect, but it's as close as she could ever hope to get. Her marriage to Rhys, her best friend's brother, is more friendship than true love. But passion is highly overrated, right? And she loves her job as the winemaker at Bel Apres, her in-laws' vineyard. So what if it's a family business and, even after decades of marriage and incredible professional success, she's still barred from the family business meetings? It's all enough...until one last night spent together leads to an incredibly honest—and painful—conversation. Rhys suggests that they divorce. They haven't had a marriage in a long time and, while he wants her to keep her job at Bel Apres, he doesn't think they should be married any longer.

Shocked, MacKenzie reels at the prospect of losing the only family she's ever really known...even though she knows deep in her heart that Rhys is right. But when MacKenzie discovers she's pregnant, walking away to begin a new life isn't so easy. She never could have anticipated the changes it would bring to the relationships she cherishes most: her relationship with Barbara, her mother-in-law and partner at Bel Apres, Stephanie, her sister-in-law and best friend, and Bel Apres, the company she's worked so hard to put on the map.

MacKenzie has always dreamed of creating a vineyard of her own, a chance to leave a legacy for her unborn child. So when the opportunity arises, she jumps at it and builds the Vineyard at Painted Moon. But following her dreams will come at a high price—one that MacKenzie isn't so sure she's willing to pay…

#1 NYT bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming, humorous novels about the relationships that define our lives―family, friendship, romance. She's known for putting nuanced characters in emotional situations that surprise readers to laughter. Beloved by millions, her books have been translated into 28 languages. Susan lives in Washington with her husband, two cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Visit her at https://susanmallery.com/

Susan Mallery is one of my go to authors knowing I will enjoy the read and this book is no exception.  Great characters that are met with some challenging life changes.  Some meet the challenges with courage despite being fearful or devastated, others not so much.  Plenty of hand clapping and head shaking moments that are relatable. Enjoyable setting in the world of vineyards and wine making. 

*Thanks to HQN/MIRA Books/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Third to Die by Allison Brennan

Detective Kara Quinn is visiting her hometown of Liberty Lake, Washington, after being placed on administrative leave by the LAPD, when she comes upon the mutilated body of a young nurse during an early morning jog. The manner of death is clearly ritualistic; she calls it in. Meanwhile back in DC, special agent in charge Mattias Costa is meticulously staffing his newly-minted Mobile Response Team. One of his first recruits is the brilliant FBI forensic psychologist Catherine Jones. When word reaches Matt that the Washington state murder appears to be the work of the Triple Killer--it will be the first case for the MRT. Jones has done the only profile on this serial killer, but she is reluctant to join the unit, still shaken by the death of her sister a year ago under circumstances for which she holds herself responsible. But only she holds the key to understanding the killer's obsessive pattern--three murder victims, three deep slashes a piece, each three days apart, each series beginning on a March 3rd--3/3, then a three-year hiatus before he strikes again.

This time they have a chance to stop him before he claims another victim strikes, but only if they can figure out who he is and where is is hiding.

Brennan's novel will launch a book-a-year series featuring a fabulous cast of recurring characters. It’s the story of a troubled female police detective and an ambitious FBI special agent who wind up at the center of a ticking-clock investigation into a diabolical serial killer; and the bond they forge in this crucible sets the stage for the future books in the series.

About the Author:
Allison Brennan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of three dozen thrillers and numerous short stories. She was nominated for Best Paperback Original Thriller by International Thriller Writers, has had multiple nominations and two Daphne du Maurier Awards, and is a five-time RITA finalist for Best Romantic Suspense. Allison believes life is too short to be bored, so she had five kids. Allison and her family live in Arizona.

A great beginning to a new series.  Fast paced as the team knows their time to catch the killer is limited. Lots of characters to get to know, but did not distract from the story.  The author always hooks me right from the start and delivers a page turning story.

Thanks to HarperCollins/Netgalley for this review copy

2019 Catch Up Thoughts

Rosewood Bay Series -  Fearless, Breathe and Freed by Carly Phillips (audios)

#1Fearless - Great start to a new series, Angela Dawe narrates.  #2Breathe - Second chance story narrated by Angela Dawe. #3 Fearless - A body guard begins to fall in love with client. Angela Dawe narrates. 

My Ex-Best Friend's Wedding by Wendy Wax

A fun story centered around a wedding dress. Kendra and Lauren are close until Lauren learns the secret her mother has kept. Lauren and Brianna were best of friends until Lauren felt betrayed. Brianna has her own feelings of betrayal.  A great story of second chances.

The Lemon Sisters by Jill Shalvis #3

Two sisters have lost touch with each other, both at a crossroads with decisions to be made. Brooke agrees to help out Mindy for a few days. She ends up back in her home town, the last place she thought she would return. Brooke faces her past and Mindy contemplates her future. Will they figure it out while restoring their relationship? A great read!

The Summer of Sunshine and Margot by Susan Mallery

Margot and Sunshine are determined not to follow in their family's footsteps. They twins but are the opposite of each other, and root for each other's success. Their stories are delightful and full of great secondary characters.

Things You Save In A Fire by Katherine Center

Cassie has worked hard to get where she is as a fire fighter. She receives an award and is being looked at for promotion. The presenter of the award cause Cassie to make a decision that changes the course of her life. Estranged from her mother Cassie is asked to help her out for a year. Cassie has no choice but to go to Boston and help her mother out and take a job at a small fire department. Cassie has not idea how her life will change in the coming months. A great story of starting over, reconciliation and forgiveness.

Deadfall by Linda Fairstein (audio) #19

Alexandra, Mike and Mercer have all suffered since their last case.  There is no time to rest and recover as they need to figure out who killed their mentor and set up Alex. Brilliantly narrated by Barbara Rosenblat

Her Last Goodbye by  Melina Leigh #2

Morgan Dane knows there is more to a young mother's disappearance than what everyone else things.  She investigates with the help of PI Lance Kruger.

Honeysuckle Summer by Sherryl Woods #7

An enjoyable story of a small town and its characters that tackle some serious issues.

The Fifth Doctrine by Karen Robards #3 (audio

Julia Whelan narrates this fast paced, action packed showdown between Bianca and those who trained her.

Rogue Spy by Joanna Bourne #5

Enjoyable story with two great characters. I did not realize it was the 5th book in the series and felt I was missing the background of relationships between the characters.