Book of Forbidden Words by Louise Fein #bookreview @wmmorrowbooks

Posted on February 12, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

1552, PARIS: The print­ing press is quickly spreading new ideas across Europe, threatening the power of church and state and unleashing a wave of book burning and heretic hunting. When frightened ex-nun Lysbette Angiers arrives at Charlotte Guillard’s famous printing shop with her manuscript, neither woman knows just how far the powerful elite will go to prevent the spread of Lysbette’s audacious ideas.

1952, NEW YORK: Milly Bennett is a lonely housewife struggling to find her way in her new neighborhood amidst the paranoid clamors of McCarthy’s America. She finds her life taking an unexpected turn when a relic from her past presents her with a 400-year-old manuscript to decipher, pulling her into a vortex of danger that threatens to shatter her world.

From the risky backstreets of sixteenth-century Paris to the unpredictable suburbs of mid-twentieth century New York, the stakes couldn’t be higher when, 400 years apart, Milly, Lysbette, and Charlotte each face a reality where the spread of ideas are feared and every effort is made to suppress them.


Dramatic and affecting, and inspired by the real-life encrypted Voynich manuscript, Book of Forbidden Words is both an engrossing story about a timeless struggle that echoes through the ages and a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who dare to let their words be heard.

Review

I have never read this author. How I have missed her, I will never know. I really enjoyed this book! I need to read her others soon!

1952, NEW YORK: Milly Bennett is a lonely housewife struggling to find her way in her new neighborhood amidst the paranoid clamors of McCarthy’s America. She finds her life taking an unexpected turn when a relic from her past presents her with a 400-year-old manuscript to decipher, pulling her into a vortex of danger that threatens to shatter her world.

I love a book which has an old, mysterious manuscript. Oh the possibilities are endless. And this author opens up all kinds of mysteries, murder and espionage in this tale. And, it is based on a real manuscript!!

This story follows Milly in 1952 and Lysbette in 1552. Both time periods are great, but I enjoyed Milly’s the best. And boy does she get herself in hot water. I mean, it is the McCarthy era.

Need a book full of historical mystery…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Our Beautiful Mess by Adele Parks @harlequinbooks

Posted on February 11, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

Number One bestseller Adele Parks returns with an explosive and deeply emotional family drama that explores the lengths a mother will go to protect her family, even if it risks exposing her past. Perfect for fans of Lisa Jewell and Lianne Moriarty.

Connie can’t wait to have all her daughters back home for Christmas. It’s not just the excitement of the girls being together under one roof; uni student Fran is bringing a new boyfriend to stay. The empty nest will once again be full of friends, family and young love.
Yet from the moment she sees Zac, Connie feels a deep unease. Zac reminds her of the worst mistake she has ever made: a man whose charm and good looks nearly destroyed her marriage. Then, Fran announces she’s pregnant.

Reeling from Fran’s news and terrified that her past might threaten her family’s future, Connie desperately tries to navigate a path forward. But there’s a much greater menace looming, because she’s not the only one who has something to hide. Someone in the house has another devastating secret. A deception which will put everyone Connie loves in shocking danger, and one of them will pay the ultimate price.

Review

Well, y’all! This is one big soap opera, and I’m here for it.

Connie can’t wait to have all her daughters back home for Christmas. It’s not just the excitement of the girls being together under one roof; uni student Fran is bringing a new boyfriend to stay. Yet from the moment she sees Zac, Connie feels a deep unease. Zac reminds her of the worst mistake she has ever made!

You talk about a family drama! This is full of secrets and big time mistakes. It is freaking twisted! And yes! My mouth fell open…and when you read it, you will know exactly what I am talking about. Should I have seen it coming, now that I look back, probably. But I love it when a book takes me by surprise.

I will say, I was not a fan of Fran. She is just a bit much and I wanted to slap her on more than one occasion. But she is a necessity in this book. Just read it to find out!

This is narrated by Kristin Atherton and Gary Turner. I have always enjoyed both of these narrators. I will say, I was not a fan of the voice for Fran. But, it could be that I just didn’t like her character and it bled over to the narrator!

Need a tale which will make you want to come through the pages…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Keeper of Lost Children By Sadeqa Johnson #bookreview #historicalfiction @simonbooks

Posted on February 10, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

In this new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The House of Eve, one American woman’s vision in post WWII Germany will tie together three people in an unexpected way.

Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American Officer, is living in Occupied Germany in the 1950s. After discovering a local orphanage filled with the abandoned mixed-race children of German women and Black American GI’s, Ethel feels compelled to help find these children homes.

Philadelphia born Ozzie Phillips volunteers for the recently desegregated army in 1948, eager to make his mark in the world. While serving in Manheim, Germany, he meets a local woman, Jelka, and the two embark on a relationship that will impact their lives forever.

In 1965 Maryland, Sophia Clark is given an opportunity to attend a prestigious all white boarding school and escape her heartless parents. While at the school, she discovers a secret that upends her world and sends her on a quest to unravel her own identity. 

Toggling between the lives of these three individuals, Keeper of Lost Children explores how one woman’s vision will change the course of countless lives, and demonstrates that love in its myriad of forms—familial, parental, and forbidden, even love of self—can be transcendent.

Review

Y’all! This book!

Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American Officer, is living in Occupied Germany in the 1950s. After discovering a local orphanage filled with the abandoned mixed-race children of German women and Black American GI’s, Ethel feels compelled to help find these children homes.

This book takes you on a ride you will not soon forget, especially Sophia’s story. Sophia’s tale will make you want to come through the pages and beat the heck out of someone. But Ethel’s tale makes you see the good in people. I love the way the author creates conundrums to help you see the difference in people.

This book is full of emotion, racism, love and it is full of history you never knew!

Need as emotional roller coaster…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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The Secret Courtesan by Kerry Chaput #bookreview #historicalfiction

Posted on February 9, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

For fans of Kate Quinn, a dual-timeline adventure novel of a historian who risks everything—including her life—to discover the truth about a female Renaissance sculptor unjustly erased by history.

Two determined women four hundred years apart. One mysterious statue. And a bombshell that could change history.

Art historian Mia is running out of time to prove her theory that the sculptor of an unearthed erotic statue was a courtesan erased from history—a scandal no one will believe. Chasing through Venice, she tracks down hidden details of Sofia, a powerful courtesan who seems to have left a trail of sex-fueled art buried across the city, but Mia’s now being followed, and even her boss might be in on the lie.

Meanwhile, in 1609, Sofia defies Venice’s unfair laws to create illicit art that could ruin her future. Her aspirations to become a great artist go up in flames when her patron’s wife steals her work and threatens her lover.

Four hundred years later, it’s up to Mia to discover the truth, but now she’s uncovered a world of art theft that could leave her ousted—or, worse, right in the crosshairs of the most powerful crime family in Italy, who will stop at nothing to force her to authenticate the famous statue. Mia’s only hope is to prove Sofia’s existence before everyone involved silences them both forever.

Review

I am in the minority on this book.

Two determined women four hundred years apart. One mysterious statue. And a bombshell that could change history.

There are so many places of brilliance in this novel. I loved the historical setting, the dual timelines, the strong women characters plus the premise behind this tale…I mean a secret woman artist in 1600 Venice…what is not to love. But, the pacing is a bit off. There are places that are bogged down in descriptions. And it has some repetitive issues as well. I also wanted more momentum between timelines.

Need a historical fiction tale that puts you on the hunt for the truth…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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Land of Dreams by Gian Sardar #bookreview #historicalfiction

Posted on February 6, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

In the 1930s, scandal, secret loves, and murder shatter a woman’s Hollywood dream in a gripping novel by the USA Today bestselling author of When the World Goes Quiet.

It’s 1933, and though the country is stuck in the Great Depression, movies are the ultimate escape. But Hollywood is skilled at selling lies, and nothing is as it seems.

Frankie Donnelly is scrappy, smart, and ambitious. Her knack for spinning any story into stellar publicity has made her an invaluable “fixer” at RCO Studios, where she works under the tutelage of powerful Nico Marconi. Frankie’s latest fix is the upcoming marriage of Hollywood royals Jack Sawyer and June Finney, and millions of fans can’t wait to see their favorite silver-screen lovers tie the knot. But Frankie knows the truth: The marriage is an artful cover for Jack and June’s darkest secrets.

When a shocking murder occurs, allegiances fracture, the tabloids go wild, and a devastated public is left reeling. Frankie uncovers new layers of scandal and deception and is forced to choose which Hollywood player to protect and who to destroy. Now, more than ever, the country needs a happy ending—but at what cost?

Review

I have been in sort of a funk. So I was not really expecting to like this book as much as I did. This is a unique historical fiction about old Hollywood and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

It’s 1933, and though the country is stuck in the Great Depression, movies are the ultimate escape. But Hollywood is skilled at selling lies, and nothing is as it seems. Frankie is a “fixer” for the RCO studios and she is perfect for this job. But when there is a murder???

Boy! What Hollywood used to do to protect the image of their stars!! And probably still does. But if you read any historical fiction about this era, you know what this entails…lies, coverups and more lies.

I enjoyed this tale following Frankie. And she has a few secrets of her own. Then there is Jack! Hollywood royalty! What is he hiding?! “ What a tangled web we weave when first we practiced to deceive!”

Excellent pacing and voices are provided by Rachel L. Jacobs!

Need an old Hollywood tale full of lies and deceptions…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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The Vermilion Sea by Megan Chance #bookreview

Posted on February 5, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

From the author of Glamorous Notions comes a harrowing tale set aboard a yacht in the 1920s, where luxury borders on lunacy and mysteries of the deep blur the lines between science and the occult.

The Great War may be over, but brilliant scientist Billie McKennan continues the fight to be taken seriously. When a deliberate omission wins her a marine biologist position aboard an expedition funded by a wealthy eccentric, she quickly discovers she’s not the only one keeping secrets.

The opulent Eurybia sets sail for the Gulf of California with a handful of well-to-do passengers and talented scientists on board. To Billie’s surprise, her ex-husband counts among them. The true mission of the voyage comes into question when a mysterious specimen is captured. And then science unexpectedly gives way to wild rumors and superstition.

Soon, a sinister force takes hold of the vessel—and everyone on it. Billie must reconcile her beliefs with the reality of what she encounters in the vermilion sea. But how much is she willing to sacrifice in order to survive?

Review

The Great War may be over, but brilliant scientist Billie McKennan continues the fight to be taken seriously. When a deliberate omission wins her a marine biologist position aboard an expedition funded by a wealthy eccentric, she quickly discovers she’s not the only one keeping secrets.

I do not have a lot of luck with this author. But I decided to give her another try. I am glad I did! This book may be strange but it is a good one.

This story definitely takes you on a wild ride. I mean…is it a monster, is it a ghost or is it something completely different?? And Billie, I really liked her. She is in one heck of a situation and she keeps her wits about her for most of it. And believe me when I tell you, I would have lost it!

Karen Peakes is the narrator. I enjoy her work. And she did a very good job with this one!

Need a strange tale to get through your day…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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This Book Made Me Think Of You by Libby Page #bookreview @berkleypub

Posted on February 4, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

When Tilly Nightingale receives a call telling her there’s a birthday gift from her husband waiting for her at her local bookshop, it couldn’t come as more of a shock. Partly because she can’t remember the last time she read a book for pleasure. But mainly because Joe died five months ago….

When she goes to pick up the present, Alfie, the bookshop owner with kind eyes, explains the gift—twelve carefully chosen books with handwritten letters from Joe, one for each month, to help her turn the page on her first year without him.

At first Tilly can’t imagine sinking into a fictional world, but Joe’s tender words convince her to try, and something remarkable happens—Tilly becomes immersed in the pages, and a new chapter begins to unfold in her own life. Monthly trips to the bookstore—and heartfelt conversations with Alfie—give Tilly the comfort she craves and the courage to set out on a series of reading-inspired adventures that take her around the world. But as she begins to share her journey with

Review

When Tilly Nightingale receives a call telling her there’s a birthday gift from her husband waiting for her at her local bookshop, it couldn’t come as more of a shock. Partly because she can’t remember the last time she read a book for pleasure. But mainly because Joe died five months ago….

Wow! What a fabulous idea. Joe left a book a month for his wife for a whole year after he died. He knew she would be having some major issues dealing with her grief. This gave her a reason to get out and get on with her life. And what adventures Tilly experienced because of these books! Tilly is an introvert and these books help her through the grieving process and it shows what love Joe really had for her.

This book is heart warming and so enjoyable. It made me smile…especially when she went camping in Scotland!

Need a tale to warm your book lovers soul…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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What Tomorrow Will Be by Julianne MacLean #bookreview

Posted on February 3, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

From USA Today bestselling author Julianne MacLean comes a captivating tale of a life caught between the past and the present…and a true love unbound by space and time.

Some loves never die. But only one will shape her future…

At nineteen, Sienna MacKay believed she had it all—a promising career ahead of her and a young love destined to last forever. But a tragic accident shatters that idyllic existence, leaving her with a heartbreaking loss.

Years later, Sienna has rebuilt her life. She’s a successful designer, a devoted mother, and a woman who has dared to love again—with Nate, a passionate, rising-star chef. But as Nate drifts further into ambition, cracks surface in their once-bright marriage. A stormy confrontation ends in disaster, and Sienna becomes caught between two worlds—her near-perfect past and her more complicated present—where she must ask herself: What is the price of true love…and is she willing to pay?

Set on the majestic, rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, What Tomorrow Will Be is a magical, emotional novel about first love, second chances, and finding the courage to stay…or the will to go.

Review

Sienna has rebuilt her life. She’s a successful designer, a devoted mother, and a woman who has dared to love again—with Nate, a passionate, rising-star chef. But as Nate drifts further into ambition, cracks surface in their once-bright marriage. A stormy confrontation ends in disaster, and Sienna becomes caught between two worlds—her near-perfect past and her more complicated present—where she must ask herself: What is the price of true love…and is she willing to pay?

I sometimes have a bit of trouble with this author. Her books are a bit too sweet for me. But y’all! I really enjoyed this one.

Sienna is the one who stole the show for me. I loved her story. She has a big tragedy in her past and she lost someone very close to her. But she overcomes and then tragedy strikes again. This leads her to realize quite a few things.

I did wish for more about Nova Scotia. But these characters and their life choices keep you very much entertained! And possibly realize a few things about yourself.

The narrators, Devon Sorvari, Graham Halstead, Andrea Emmes did a very good job!

Need a book about life, marriage and second chances…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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It’s Not Her by Mary Kubica #bookreview @harlequinbooks

Posted on February 2, 2026 by fredreeca

Overview

A gripping thrill ride.” —Jeneva Rose
“Tantalizing, terrifying and all too real.” —Shari Lapena
“Cancel your plans, you won’t be able to put this one down.” —Chris Whitaker
“Wickedly smart and incredibly twisted.” —Ashley Elston
“Terrifying.” —Megan Miranda

Two families at a secluded lake resort are at the center of a chilling crime in this twisty thriller from the bestselling author of Local Woman Missing

A scream shatters the silence…
Courtney Gray’s peaceful vacation turns into a nightmare when she discovers her brother and sister-in-law dead in their lakeside cottage. Her niece Reese is missing. Her nephew Wyatt is asleep upstairs—unharmed.

A town full of secrets…
As police swarm the quiet resort, dark truths about Courtney’s family—and the town itself—begin to surface. Is Reese a victim… or the killer?

A truth no one saw coming…
With everyone hiding something, Courtney races to uncover the terrible mystery. But the closer she gets, the harder it is to know who—or what—to trust.

Review

Mary Kubica has done it again!

A scream shatters the silence…
Courtney Gray’s peaceful vacation turns into a nightmare when she discovers her brother and sister-in-law dead in their lakeside cottage. Her niece Reese is missing. Her nephew Wyatt is asleep upstairs—unharmed.

Talk about twisted! Talk about lots of suspects! Talk about secrets! This book is full of them all! And devil no! I had none of it pegged!

This book definitely takes you on a wild ride. There is a past crime of a young girl missing. There is a double murder with a young girl missing in present day! Are they related? Is it a family member? What? Who?

I love how this author created such viable suspects. This really had me guessing and I love a good guessing game!

This is narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya, Brittany Pressley, and Gary Tiedemann. What a great team!

Need a story to keep you guessing…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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The Unwritten Rules of Magic by Harper Ross #bookreview @stmartinspress

Posted on January 30, 2026 by fredreeca

For fans of The Midnight Library and In Five Years, The Unwritten Rules of Magic is a spellbinding novel that blends magic and memory in an unforgettable journey through love, grief, and the hidden cost of perfection across three generations of women.

Emerson Clarke can’t remember a time when she felt in control. Her father—a celebrated author—was a chaotic force until he got Alzheimer’s. Her mother turned to gin. And recently, her teen daughter has shut her out without explanation. If only she could arrange reality the same way she controls the stories she ghostwrites, life could be perfect.

Or so she thinks.

After her father’s funeral, Emerson steals his vintage typewriter—the one he’d forbidden anyone to touch—and tests its keys by typing out a frivolous wish. When it comes true the very next day, she tries another. Then, those words also spring to life. Suddenly, she becomes obsessed with using the typewriter to rewrite happiness for herself and her daughter.

But the more she shapes her real-life, the more she uncovers disturbing truths about her family’s history and the unexpected cost of every story-come-true. She should destroy the typewriter, yet when her daughter’s secret finally emerges, Emerson is torn between paying the price for bending fate and embracing the uncertainty of an unscripted life.

Review

Be careful what you wish for!

After her father’s funeral, Emerson steals his vintage typewriter—the one he’d forbidden anyone to touch—and tests its keys by typing out a frivolous wish. When it comes true the very next day, she tries another. But the more she shapes her real-life, the more she uncovers disturbing truths about her family’s history and the unexpected cost of every story-come-true.

This is a good story. It is about life, grief forgiveness and the love of family!

I enjoyed Emerson. She is struggling to cope with life after her father dies and the secrets he left behind. Then there is her mother and her alcoholism. After a wish on the typewriter, Emerson soon discovers she better be careful what she wishes for. No wonder her dad kept this typewriter locked up.

Y’all! This book is very good. It really makes you think…what would you wish for and how would you word it? I enjoyed this guessing game and the outcomes! Very unique.

Need a story that may call attention to a few things…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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