AUDIOBOOK REVIEW - Secrets You Can’t Keep

Title:  Secrets You Can’t Keep 

Author:  Debra Webb

Publisher:  Thomas & Mercer

Series:  Vera Boyett #3

Genre:   Mystery & Thrillers

Format:  Audio ALC and Kindle ARC

Narrator:  Elise Arsenault

Length:  11 hrs and 8 mins

No. of Pages:   315

Date of Publication:   December 9, 2025

My Rating:   4 Stars

DESCRIPTION:

From USA Today bestselling author Debra Webb comes crime analyst Vera Boyett’s next case—a triple homicide that tears a small town apart…and an accident that could do worse to her family.

A cabin in the woods. Three dead, one in critical condition. Property owned by not just any Tennessee local, but one of the richest men in the country.

Vera Boyett isn’t quite sure what it means. But that’s why Sheriff Gray “Bent” Benton called to figure it out. Criminal analysis is what she does best. Even when the town is in panicked shambles, even when the case is more delicate than most…and even when it’s not the only case on her plate.

Vera’s family is caught in a deadly mess of its own. And while her pregnant sister seems an unlikely culprit, each new detail seems to point to her guilt. Desperate to protect her, Vera vows to find out what really happened.

As evidence emerges in both cases, Vera and Bent work to unravel a dangerous web of secrets to get to the truth. But their investigations reveal more than they ever expected…

Link to shop the series

MY THOUGHTS:

Vera Boyett, who had been called to the scene of a gruesome triple murder, soon discovers that one of her sisters, Luna, might be involved in the crime. Luna, along with her sister Eve, had found contentment in their lives and relationships, and Vera had often envied their happiness. However, Vera soon realizes that things are not always as they seem. 

Every now and again I think about whether or not a book is character given or is it plot driven. In this book, I think it is definitely character driven because of the familiar connection between Vera and her sister Luna. Then there is the connection between Vera and Ben and the possibility of where their relationship might go. With the other friendships and relationships that show strength in the story, it was easy to connect to the characters. 

While it seems as this might be the final book in a series I have really enjoyed, I will be continuing to read books by Debra Webb.

Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Debra Webb is the award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of more than 130 novels, including reader favorites the Faces of Evil, the Colby Agency, and the Shades of Death series. With more than four million books sold in numerous languages and countries, Debra's love of storytelling goes back to her childhood on a farm in Alabama. Visit Debra at www.DebraWebb.com

or write to her at PO Box 176, Madison, AL 35758.

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BLOG TOUR - Murder on a Frosty Night

DESCRIPTION:

Wrapping presents and singing at midnight mass on a frosty night… Lady Swift is determined to enjoy Christmas at home this year, until another body turns up!

Winter 1925. Eleanor and Hugh are decking the halls for their first married Christmas together when butler Clifford arrives with a mysterious telegram. A lucrative case awaits their new detective agency… but in the most remote county in England. The note insists they must be there by midnight to accept the job.

After a snowy journey, they arrive at the tiny hamlet of Yorelow to find their client, Osmund Unwin, dead in the churchyard as midnight mass ends. They realise they are now in the absurd situation of having to solve the murder of their client – who they never met – to solve a case they know nothing about and officially never accepted!

There is very little festive goodwill to go around, as it seems half the village had a grudge against the rich man. Was it one of the Frisham sisters, owners of the tavern and rumoured to be in a love triangle with Unwin? Or perhaps his maid, who never had a nice thing to say about him?

When another body is found in the ruins of the castle overlooking the town, Eleanor is baffled. Clearly there’s more to this nightmare before Christmas than the gang first thought…

A totally unputdownable historical murder mystery set in an English village at Christmas, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, T.E. Kinsey and Catherine Coles!

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Title:   Murder on a Frosty Night

Author:  Verity Bright

Series:  Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery #24
Publisher:  Bookouture    

Genre:   Cozy Mystery

Format:  Kindle ARC 

No. of Pages:  335

Date of Publication:  December 8, 2025

My Rating:   5 Stars

MY THOUGHTS: 

A seven-hour drive brings Lady Eleanor Swift, her husband Hugh Seldon, and their ever-reliable butler Clifford to the remote village of Yorelow. They’ve come at the request of a new client, eager to take on an early case under the banner of their newly established Byron Detective Agency. With half of their fee already paid, they’re ready to get to work—until they arrive and make a startling discovery: their would-be client and host is already dead.

The location itself is unforgettable. Known as the “Devil’s Porringer,” this strange geological formation resembles a vast punchbowl carved out by centuries of water erosion. To Ellie, it feels like a village frozen in time—quiet, isolated, and tucked inside a steep, circular hollow. It’s the perfect backdrop for a mystery, and the trio wastes no time diving in.

Naturally, they’re not alone. Ellie’s loyal dog Gladstone is at her side, and fans of the series will be pleased to know that her beloved ladies—and Kofi—also make appearances as the investigation unfolds.

What becomes clear quickly is that the crime occurred before they even reached the village, leaving them not only to untangle a murder but also to solve a perplexing riddle tied to the victim. The frosty holiday season and the picturesque snowfall lend an enchanting charm to the tension-filled atmosphere.

I’ve loved this series from the very beginning, and this installment is no exception. With its wintry setting and ever-endearing characters, Murder on a Frosty Night is yet another delightful mystery that keeps you guessing right to the end.

Thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Verity Bright is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing partnership that has spanned a quarter of a century. Starting out writing high-end travel articles and books, they published everything from self-improvement to humour, before embarking on their first historical mystery. They are the authors of the fabulous Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series, set in the 1920s.

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BLOG TOUR - Golden Girls on the Run

Title:  Golden Girls on the Run

Author:  Judy Leigh

Publisher:  Boldwood Books

Genre:   Women’s Fiction

Format:  Kindle ARC

No. of Pages:   351

Date of Publication:   December 6, 2025

My Rating:   4 Stars

DESCRIPTION:

Thelma and Louise meets The Golden Girls in the BRAND NEW laugh-out-loud, relatable read from MILLION COPY bestseller Judy Leigh! Perfect for fans of Dawn French and Caroline James! 🍷✨❤️

 Age is just a number. Trouble is a lifestyle.

When octogenarian sisters-in-law Sadie and Bronagh find themselves at the centre of a scandalous (and slightly explosive) bake-off fiasco, there’s only one thing to do – steal Sadie’s grandson’s gleaming red Ferrari and make a run for it.

Sadie is the practical one, all cardigans and contingency plans. Bronagh treats rules as loose suggestions – especially if mischief or wine is involved.

What begins as a quick getaway across Ireland soon spirals into a wild, cross-country adventure filled with fake identities, unexpected friendships, and more than a few brushes with the law.

Sadie and Bronagh may be on the run, but what they find at the journey’s end might just be what they were missing all along…

A heartwarming, hilarious tale of rebellion, rediscovery, and the true meaning of family.

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/GoldenGirlsRun

MY THOUGHTS:

From Ballywick, Ireland, to parts unknown, it appears that Sadie and Bronagh have a destination. However, reaching their destination is only a part of their journey. With a touch of fun, a hint of sneakiness, and a dose of honesty, this trip strengthens the best friend relationship between sisters-in-law Sadie and Bronagh. Their exciting and exhausting trip is in Sadie’s grandson’s Ferrari, and they go from` spinning wheels to spinning tales at every stop.

I thoroughly enjoyed Golden Girls on the Run after reading The Vintage Village Bake Off. As I was about to read Judy Leigh’s latest book, a note from the author preceded the story, introducing readers to several of the characters. These include Robert and his sisters, Bunty and Hattie. I’m glad I read the previous book because I enjoyed getting to know these characters. 

This latest book introduces Sadie and Bronagh, our octogenarians who are the main protagonists in this story. These books are written as standalone novels, but if you enjoy character connection and continuity, you might want to read the previously mentioned book. It is a delightful read and definitely worth the time.

I adored all the characters in this book, particularly the friendship between Sadie and Bronagh. Despite being widowed, they exude youthful energy that radiates through the pages. I also enjoyed the people they encounter along the way and the villagers in Devon who welcome them at their destination. While the book contains a fair amount of humor, it also includes serious moments that provide levity.

While Judy Leigh is a new name for me, both books were truly a delight. Now I very much look forward to reading her backlist.

Many thanks to Boldwood Books, Rachel’s Random Resources and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Judy Leigh is the bestselling author of Five French Hens, A Grand Old Time and The Age of Misadventure and the doyenne of the ‘it’s never too late’ genre of women’s fiction. She has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @judyleighuk

Twitter: @JudyLeighWriter

Instagram: @judyrleigh

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JudyLeighNews

Bookbub profile: @judyrleigh 

BLOG TOUR - Mystery at Mistletoe Place

DESCRIPTION:

Mistletoe, mulled wine… and murder? When a party turns fatal, Eve Mallow is on the case! 

Arthur’s Boatyard is a jewel in the crown of Saxford St Peter, a famous firm that’s been fixing barges and boats for a hundred years. But their centenary celebration shows it’s not all plain sailing… The owner, Anthony Mottram, seems to be at daggers drawn with half the village. So when he turns up dead in his own workshop, Eve Mallow knows she needs to chart her path carefully if she’s to find his killer.

Accompanied by her stalwart sidekick, dachshund Gus, Eve sets out on decidedly choppy waters. Why did Anthony’s sister send him to the boatyard the night he died? Where has his ex-girlfriend vanished to? And what is his best friend and business partner hiding?

With her only clues a scarf, a scrap of paper and the smell of perfume, Eve must navigate an ocean of suspects who all have reasons to lie. But when the new owner of the boatyard is murdered, she knows she’s sailing close to the wind. Despite all the mince pies and the carol singing, someone is feeling far from festive. Can Eve make it through the storm and land her suspect, or will she be left dead in the water?

A completely charming and gripping English cozy mystery, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Emylia Hall and J.R. Ellis.

BUY LINK:

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Title:   Mystery at Hideaway House

Author:  Clare Chase

Series:  An Eve Mallow Mystery Book #15

Publisher:  Bookouture 

Genre:   Cozy Mystery 

Format:  Kindle ARC

No. of Pages:  338

Date of Publication: December 1, 2025

My Rating:  5 Stars 

MY THOUGHTS:

Mystery at Mistletoe Place is another thrilling installment in Clare Chase’s captivating series, which never fails to deliver. Arthur’s Yard will soon be celebrating its centennial celebration. The festivities are barely underway when the owner of the boatyard is soon found murdered. The event proves stressful to Eve Mallow, journalist, obituary writer and an excellent amateur detective, as it doesn’t take long for her follow her intuition that the victim was a result of murder. 

When it comes to writing obituaries, Eve liked to learn full histories of her subjects. As she begins digging deep into Arthur’s life, there are some things that just don’t add up. On the surface, Arthur seemed well-liked. But things just weren’t ringing true, as a gnarled web of secrets begin to unfold. This makes getting solid information about Arthur near to impossible for Eve. 

Obituary aside, Eve makes it her aim to find out who is hiding what, and of course, who killed Arthur. With her characteristic flair, Clare Chase puts Eve in the driver’s seat, guiding her through a complex web of clues and revelations. Before long, pieces of a very complicated puzzle begin to fall into place. Eve may be missing her husband Robin as he is away, but her best friend Viv and her adorable dachshund Gus are right there by her side. 

Can Eve solve Arthur’s murder, write a comprehensive obituary, and still find time to get ready for the holidays? We hope so, as Eve, Robin, and their friends deserve a relaxing holiday. In the meantime, readers eagerly anticipate the sixteenth book in the series.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Clare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations.

Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder on the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.

Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.

As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s books.

You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com

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BLOG TOUR - Murder at the Scottish Ball

DESCRIPTION:

Holly wreaths, eggnog by a roaring fire and… A body by the Christmas tree? Opal Laplume is on the case!

December 1934. Spending the holidays in a Scottish castle has made Opal Laplume’s festive wishes come true. Sir Blair’s Christmas Eve ball is legendary, and Opal dons her finest gown for an exquisite night of bubbles, baubles, and tartan kilts. But the festivities come to a screeching halt when their gracious host is electrocuted by some faulty Christmas lights.

The mood soon turns from festive to frosty when Opal discovers that what seemed like a tragic accident was in fact a deadly sabotage. Everyone has something to hide. Sir Blair’s marriage was crumbling like a piece of Scottish shortbread. Did his wife take ‘til death do us part’ too far? The butler was promised a large sum from Sir Blair’s will. Did he want an early Christmas bonus? And who is the ghostly figure playing bagpipes in the tower at night?

Just as the killer proves as difficult to find as the Loch Ness Monster, one of the guests is found smothered in their bedroom. Opal soon discovers Sir Blair was hiding a deadly secret on a small island off the rugged Scottish coast. Can she find the key to the mystery there, before the entire party perishes? Or will this Christmas be her last? 

An addictive and twisty Golden Age murder mystery set in the Scottish Highlands. Fans of Agatha Christie. T.E. Kinsey and Verity Bright won’t be able to put this down!

BUY LINKS: 

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Title:  Murder at the Scottish Ball 

Author:  Millicent Binks 

Series:   An Opal Laplume Mystery Book 3

Publisher:  Bookouture 

Genre:  Cozy Mystery 

Format:  Kindle ARC

No. of Pages:  269

Date of Publication:   November 28, 2025

My Rating:   5 Stars

MY THOUGHTS:

Opal Laplume is very much looking forward to her family’s Christmas travel plans. They’ll be spending the holidays at an elegant Scottish castle and attending the much-anticipated Scottish Ball. Opal couldn’t be more excited. What promises to be a warm, festive gathering quickly turns chilling, however, when their host, Sir Seamus Blair, is found dead—electrocuted by the castle’s Christmas lights.

At first, everyone assumes it was a tragic accident caused by faulty wiring. But as the layers of the story unfold, it becomes clear that something far more sinister is at play. Opal, who has a knack for solving mysteries—though not without putting herself in danger—can’t resist the urge to investigate. Despite her family’s concerns and her own haunting memories from a previous case, she’s determined to uncover the truth behind Sir Seamus‘s death. But will her curiosity once again put her life at risk?

I loved the eerie, atmospheric feel of this story. Millicent Binks masterfully blends cozy mystery charm with a touch of Gothic suspense. The Scottish castle setting—with its snow-covered hills, flickering candlelight, and shadowy corridors—creates the perfect backdrop for a holiday murder. As the author describes, it’s an “airy Gothic atmosphere”—moody yet elegant, dark yet full of seasonal sparkle.

Opal, a delightful heroine, is clever, determined, and wonderfully relatable. Her inner strength shines through even as danger looms. The brisk pacing, cleverly planted clues, and satisfying yet surprising resolution make this a perfect read for mystery lovers who relish a touch of the macabre wrapped in holiday warmth. It’s a festive whodunit that keeps you guessing until the very end.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Millicent Binks is a writer, former costume designer and burlesque performer. Her work includes a column for  The Evening Standard  and a cover story for  The Sunday Times Magazine that was optioned for TV by NBCUniversal. Her first book series, featuring English milliner and amateur sleuth Opal Laplume, is set in Paris, Hollywood and Scotland. She enjoys writing in libraries and cafes all over London with her laptop or occasionally writes while lounging at home on the settee with her two cats Tarquin and Madame de Pompadot.

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