I own book 1 of this series (The Silent Watcher), thanks to Amazon First Reads. I had No-Rush Rewards that were going to expire in the middle of the month, so I got myself book 2 of the series. I have not read a bad Victor Methos book and I am excited to get into this series next year.
Proof of Price: $0.00
What is the Sunday Salon? The Sunday Salon is a place to link up and share what we have been doing during the week. It’s also a great opportunity to visit other blogs and join in the conversations going on there. Hosted by Readerbuzz.
What is the Sunday Post? The Sunday Post is a blog news meme hosted by Caffeinated Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received. Share news about what is coming up on your blog for the week ahead. Join in weekly, bi-weekly or for a monthly wrap up.
Monday was uneventful. Kids are back at school. Parents went back home to North Carolina. Hubby and I went back to work. I barely had the energy to work today lol. When I got home from work I plopped my behind on the couch and did nothing.
Tuesday and Wednesday was also uneventful.
Thursday my husband goes bowling so I am just home with the dog. I had errands to run after work and by the time I got home I barely wanted to cook dinner. I finished an audiobook while in the car, and then I relaxed on the couch to read a book before going to bed.
Friday my husband worked late so I ended up straightening up the house after work, then played a video game to relax. I felt a reading slump hitting so I didn’t read or listen to anything before bed.
Saturday the hubby and I went to our friends Friendsmas party at their house. We had a good time!
Today we are gonna go to church, and then really nothing going on until Santa and Mrs. Claus comes through our neighborhood at night. We used to hear the police sirens nearing our street (Santa’s sleigh gets a police and fire truch escort through town) and the kids and I would throw on our winter coats and run to the corner to go see them. Now I take the dog to the corner, lol!
Currently:
The Woman On The Ledge has been on my TBR for a little bit now, and since I felt a slump coming on I borrowed it from Libby on a whim.
Just Finished:
I wanted to try a little whimsy Christmas book, and I found this one on Amazon Prime Reading.
If you’d like to be friends with me on Storygraph, this is my profile page.
I stopped using Goodreads and refuse to go back.
No TV this week.
Review: Friends and Liars by Kit Frick
Review: Warping Minds and Other Misdemeanors
WWW Wednesday
Monthly Wrap Up
The Sunday Salon #21
Last month I posted about the series I am currently in the middle of. This is a my short update about how that’s going so far. (Oops! I started new series since my last update lol)
As you fill in this spreadsheet with books currently reading or when you finish a book, in a separate tab this sheet populates. I freaking love it!
I will probably share where I am at with all of my series at the very end of the year, and make a plan for 2026 to tackle some of them. Around November I start making 2026 plans… not that I am rushing the year along, but I am a planner and like to be all set up before January hits.
Title: Warping Minds and Other Misdemeanors
Author: Annette Marie and Rob Jacobsen
Format: audiobook
Length: 6 hours 34 minutes
Rating: 3.5 stars
Publication Date: August 25, 2020
COYER Library Love
I liked the characters in this book, but something about the story won’t let me rate it above 3.5 stars. I think my mind is wanting to compare it to the other series that Annette Marie wrote, and while they are in the same universe, this one just has a different feel. It was not a bad story, and I will continue on with the read-along.
Title: This Is A Safe Space
Author: Lucinda Berry
Format: audiobook
Length: 3 hours 40 minutes
Rating: 4 stars
Publication Date: October 21, 2025
Audiobook Challenge, COYER, Library Love Challenge
This audiobook is a fast, razor-sharp psychological thriller that grabs you from the first page and never lets up. The full-cast narration takes it to another level, with realistic text message dings and voicemail audios. It’s immersive, emotional, and so vivid that it feels like you’re right inside the story. Smart, twisty, and impossible to stop listening to, it’s a standout thriller from start to finish.
I borrowed this audiobook from my library. Thanks Libby!
Welcome to WWW Wednesday! This meme was formerly hosted by MizB at A Daily Rhythm and revived on Taking on a World of Words.
The Three Ws are: What are you currently reading? What did you recently finish reading? What do you think you’ll read next?
Starting this month off with an ARC of Such A Clever Girl by Darby Kane.
I borrowed Malice from the library so I am gonna start it and see how it goes.
I am listening to Dark Arts and A Daiquiri for the Read-along I am participating in.
This wasn’t doing it for me in the slightest and I forced myself through it thinking it would get better. I will not be posting about this one on my blog.
These ARCs are slated to be read before the year is over. I always feel like December is a huge mood month for me but I want to try to get to these before the new year.
Don’t forget to link up with Taking On A World Of Words to share your WWW!
Title: Friends and Liars
Author: Kit Frick
Format: eBook
Length: 272 pages
Rating: 3 stars
Publication Date: December 2, 2025
COYER, Netgalley/Edelweiss
Friends and Liars delivers an intriguing premise—old friends reuniting under uneasy circumstances and long-buried secrets bubbling to the surface. While the suspense has its strong moments and the shifting timelines add some interest, the story doesn’t always maintain its momentum. Some character motivations feel a bit underdeveloped, and the twists, though satisfying enough, aren’t particularly surprising. Still, the writing is solid, the atmosphere is engaging, and the book offers an enjoyable, if not standout, thriller experience.
I received a complimentary e-copy. Thank you to Atria Books for allowing me to read this ARC through Edelweiss.
Good morning, readers! November overall was a good reading month for me. It slowed down at the end due to the holiday though… not mad at it.
One more month until 2026 – that’s CRAZY!
If you’re not following me on Storygraph, you should! This is my page. I stopped using Goodreads last year.
Also, I am trying to get more people liking my posts on Instagram. If you could follow me there, and maybe like a photo or two, I would also appreciate that :) I also follow back anyone who follows me.
What is the Sunday Salon? The Sunday Salon is a place to link up and share what we have been doing during the week. It’s also a great opportunity to visit other blogs and join in the conversations going on there. Hosted by Readerbuzz.
What is the Sunday Post? The Sunday Post is a blog news meme hosted by Caffeinated Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received. Share news about what is coming up on your blog for the week ahead. Join in weekly, bi-weekly or for a monthly wrap up.
Monday was uneventful. Pretty much went to work and came home to do some house chores so I could get everything ready for everyone staying at my house for the holiday.
Tuesday I woke up feeling like complete shit. I called out of work (which I rarely ever do). While I had a lot to get done I gave myself time to rest in between. Once dinnertime hit I started feeling crappy again so I gave up for the day. And then my husband arrived home with the kids so I made them a quick dinner and went to bed.
Wednesday my husband had off of work so we got everything done before company arrived. My parents arrived first, then my husband went to go pick up his brother and family. We had pizza for dinner and went to bed early.
Thanksgiving consists of Macy’s Day Parade, pancakes, smoking a turkey, throwing the sides in the oven and overeating. And of course family drama, haha!
Friday morning my husband drove his brother and family home after breakfast. The rest of us got naps in. Then leftovers for dinner.
Saturday my parents watched the dog and my family went to north Jersey for a concert (my husband bought tickets as my birthday gift this summer).
Today I skipped church and slept in. The kids go back to college tonight. Only two weeks until they’re home for winter break.
Currently:
Friends and Liars is an Edelweiss ARC which I hope to finish before the end of the month. I borrowed Five Total Strangers from Libby.
Just Finished:
If you’d like to be friends with me on Storygraph, this is my profile page.
I stopped using Goodreads and refuse to go back.
No TV this week.
Review: Friends and Liars by Kit Frick
Review: Warping Minds and Other Misdemeanors
WWW Wednesday
Monthly Wrap Up
The Sunday Salon #21
Good morning readers! These are all of the books that I acquired/received/borrowed onto my shelves, virtual and/or physical, for the entire month of September:
I borrowed all of these from Libby.
I borrowed this hefty paperback copy from my library.
I chose both of these as my First Reads choice for the month of November.
I signed up with Silver Dagger Book Tours for this Thanksgiving read. I should of read the description of the book better before requesting because this is definitely not my typical genre lol
I borrowed this hardcover copy from a book borrowing group I am involved in on Facebook.
I was gifted a physical copy of You Killed Me First by John Marrs. Thanks Cayla!
Acquired: 14
Total spent this month: $0.00
Total spent this year: $0.00
I absolutely LOVE using my library for all my books and audiobook needs. I do not have a lot of money to blow on a hobby, so I found a good way to support my community, my library and my reading habit! The library has a ton of resources and I always check there first for audiobooks I want to listen to or books I want to read. Libby is my friend and I have multiple library branches hooked up to my account for maximum borrowing.
I am also doing two library challenges for this year, so I thought it’d be fun to post monthly updates about my library stats.
One of my goals for this year was to save at least $1,000 while using the library! Woohoo!!!!
I started off the month strong with Sci Fi books, but then got swept up in reading my ARCs and Sci Fi’s got moved to the back burner.
I read two Sci Fi books and they were both great!
Title: The 11:59 Bomber
Author: Marshall Karp
Format: eBook
Length: 300 pages
Rating: 4 stars
Publication Date: November 25, 2025
Challenges: COYER, HRCYED 2.0, Netgalley/Edelweiss
The 11:59 Bomber is an absolute knockout—Marshall Karp delivers a fast-paced, clever, and wildly entertaining thriller that’s impossible to put down. The plot is sharply constructed, balancing high-stakes suspense with the humor and heart that make this series such a standout.
What truly elevates the book is the main cast. Karp’s characters have always been one of the strongest parts of the series, and they shine here more than ever. They’re vibrant, funny, deeply human, and endlessly engaging—exactly the kind of characters you can’t wait to follow into the next installment. Their chemistry and banter add warmth to even the most intense moments, making the story feel alive on every page.
If you’re already a fan of the NYPD Red series, The 11:59 Bomber is everything you’re hoping for and more. And if you’re new to Marshall Karp, this book is a fantastic place to see why his characters and storytelling have earned such a dedicated following. Highly recommended.
I received a complimentary e-copy. Thank you to Simon & Schuster for allowing me to read this ARC through Edelweiss.
Cozy up this season with the newest Pinegrove FD Romance book!
Thanksgiving Overruled
A Pinegrove FD Novel Book 3
by Libby Kay
Genre: Contemporary Small-Town Firefighter Sapphic Romance
Everyone wants to hear those three little words during the holidays…
Where’s the casserole?!
Winnie Kerr wants to utter another three-word phrase to her girlfriend, but Thanksgiving has other plans. After spending far too much time on work, this legal eagle decides an impromptu road trip to visit her sister is the perfect time to tell her girlfriend she loves her. What could go wrong during a few days away from work, right?
Mari Balogh has a problem, she’s madly in love with her girlfriend and cannot get those three little words off her tongue. After being burned before from her unsupportive family and a string of bad breakups, this paralegal is guarded. She happily agrees on a road trip to Pinegrove, eager for the space to profess her affections. How hard can it be, right?
From a little trespassing and a kitchen nightmare to a surly cat and a series of misunderstandings, the road to I love you is rife with hiccups. Can these two find their way to happily ever after? Or will their relationship go up in a puff of sweet potato casserole scented smoke?
But Pinegrove has proven that love is never overruled!
Return to small-town Pinegrove, Georgia, the romantic setting of Libby Kay’s endearing novels, When Sparks Fly and Old Flames, as well as the 2026 novel about another of the hunky firemen in town. Don’t miss any of the action or romance!
**NEW RELEASE!**
Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads
This is not my typical genre, but I thought this was a cute holiday novella. I could see this being made into a Hallmark TV holiday movie. All of the characters are likeable, and my favorite was a side character named Trevor.
Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading romance novels of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish her soul. Contemporary or Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily ever after—she’s in love!
When not surrounded by books, Libby can be found baking in her kitchen, binging true crime shows, or on the road with her husband, traveling as far as their bank account will allow.
Libby cohosts the Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli where they recommend romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers. Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!
Website * Facebook * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
Giveaway
$10 Amazon or Paypal
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
https://sdbook.promo/ThanksgivingOverruled
I received a complimentary e-copy from Silver Dagger Book Tours.
What is the Sunday Salon? The Sunday Salon is a place to link up and share what we have been doing during the week. It’s also a great opportunity to visit other blogs and join in the conversations going on there. Hosted by Readerbuzz.
What is the Sunday Post? The Sunday Post is a blog news meme hosted by Caffeinated Reviewer. It’s a chance to share news~ A post to recap the past week on your blog and showcase books and things we have received. Share news about what is coming up on your blog for the week ahead. Join in weekly, bi-weekly or for a monthly wrap up.
The kids were home this past weekend. We put up the Christmas tree and put the ornaments on it, and then half decorated the house (since I am hosting Thanksgiving and I didn’t wanna go too crazy – I am a one holiday at a time person). We put the tree up early so the dog gets used to it being in the living room, and pray he doesn’t mess with it lol.
Monday was uneventful. Pretty much went to work and came home to do some house chores.
I had off of work on Tuesday. I went grocery shopping for all the Thanksgiving food I need for the holiday. My parents had to make an unplanned trip up to NJ for a funeral so they came to stay with us for two days.
Wednesday my husband was at a work conference and staying overnight there. I went to work and came home, wiped out from a crazy work day. My parents went to the above mentioned funeral, and then when they got back we went out to dinner.
Thursday was my 21st wedding anniversary. Spent it with the dog since my husband was at the work conference. Life happens lol.
Friday was also uneventful.
Saturday started off with a lazy morning, which was nice for a change. Then my husband and I went to dinner for our wedding anniversary. We went to our favorite fancy Italian restaurant.
Today I went to church and am relaxing as much as possible because this upcoming week is gonna be chaos!
My reading has been less than usual this week….
Currently:
I borrowed Conceal Don’t Feel so I am making it a priority to finish before Thanksgiving. Friends and Liars is an Edelweiss ARC which I hope to finish before the end of the month. I borrowed This Is A Safe Space from Libby.
Just Finished:
Two ARCs and a First Reads backlog book.
If you’d like to be friends with me on Storygraph, this is my profile page.
I stopped using Goodreads and refuse to go back.
No TV this week.
Review: Thanksgiving Overruled by Libby Kay
Review: The 11:59 Bomber (NYPD Red 8) by Marshall Karp
My #SciFiMonth2025 Books I Read
Thanksgiving 2025
Library Stats and Savings For November 2025
The Sunday Salon #20
Title: The Kill Clause
Author: Lisa Unger
Format: eBook
Length: 68 pages
Rating: 4 stars
Publication Date: December 1, 2025
COYER, HRCYED 2.0
I really enjoyed this quick, twisty read! Lisa Unger manages to pack so much tension and emotion into such a short story. It has that perfect mix of suspense and dark humor that keeps you hooked from start to finish. The characters feel like real people, the pacing is on point, and the ending totally sticks with you. It’s a fast, satisfying thriller that shows just how good Unger is at what she does.
I received a free e-copy of this book. Thank you to Amazon First Reads.
Title: The Writer
Author: James Patterson & JD Barker
Format: audiobook
Length: 9 hours 30 minutes
Rating: 4 stars
Publication Date: March 17, 2025
Challenges: Audiobook, HRCYED 2.0, Library Love
The premise is irresistible: a famous true-crime author found standing over her husband’s dead body, covered in blood, claiming she didn’t do it. NYPD detective Declan Shaw quickly realizes nothing about this case is straightforward, and the more he digs, the more twisted it becomes. Every time I thought I had it figured out, another twist sent me in a completely different direction.
What I liked most was how the story blurs the line between truth and fiction. The idea of a writer whose life starts to resemble the crimes she writes about is fascinating — and a little unsettling. The pacing is classic Patterson: short chapters that make it almost impossible to stop reading. I flew through the book in just a couple of sittings.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers that keep you guessing right up to the final reveal, The Writer delivers exactly that. Fast, addictive, and loaded with twists — it’s the kind of book that reminds me why I love the genre.
I borrowed this audiobook from my library. Thank you to Libby! I own a hardcover copy of this book thanks to James Patterson Street Team.
Welcome to WWW Wednesday! This meme was formerly hosted by MizB at A Daily Rhythm and revived on Taking on a World of Words.
The Three Ws are: What are you currently reading? What did you recently finish reading? What do you think you’ll read next?
I am determined to make significant progress in Conceal Don’t Feel this week.
I am trying to squeeze in one more ARC in this month. I just started Friends and Liars yesterday.
I am listening to Good As Dead, a backlog book. It ticks off a couple of boxes for some challenges I am doing. I should be done with this one in a few days, I am flying through it.
My review of The Writer will be up on the blog tomorrow.
These books are slated to be read before the year is over. I always feel like December is a huge mood month for me but I want to try to get to these before the new year.
Don’t forget to link up with Taking On A World Of Words to share your WWW!
It’s a few days after the exact middle of the month, but I wanted to share how my reading been going for November. Nothing excited- mostly short and to the point post…
I finished 6 books so far, ranging from novellas to regular length of books. I’ve been listening less and physically reading more. I’ve read some sci-fi, some fantasy and of course my beloved thrillers lol.
My reading is going to slow down as I am focusing on holiday shananigans now. Lots to do before Thanksgiving as we host at my house every year and I am having family sleeping over.
I am making reading plans for next year already. Less ARCs and more library (even more than I already do!). And I am working on setting up a personal shelf goal/challenge.
I am doing well on challenges I am apart of too.
I am apart of a Facebook group for book challenges/reading. The group has 7.1K people in it and I am not too active on it as of late (because I’ve pulled back on social media a lot this year). Anyway, someone in the group messaged me and asked if I had an Amazon Wishlist I could send her way. Then she messaged me a little while later saying I have a package on it’s way.
I rarely get book mail, so thanks Carla! I’m so excited to share that she sent me….
Three women. Three smouldering secrets. Who will make it out alive?
It’s 5 November, and a woman awakens to a nightmare. Bound and gagged, she lies trapped in the heart of a towering bonfire. As the smoke thickens, panic sets in – she’s moments away from being engulfed in flames. How did it come to this?
Rewind eleven months: Margot, a faded TV star, and her long-suffering friend Anna watch as glamorous Liv and her flawless family move into their street. The three women soon fabricate the perfect pretence of friendship, but each harbours her own deadly secret – and newcomer Liv senses something is terribly wrong beneath the polished exteriors.
As cracks widen in the veneer of perfection and lies escalate out of control, tension ignites. Bonfire Night is approaching and someone is set to burn… But who will it be?
