Brian Longo

"Dead Reckoning" by Linda Castillo is a gripping romantic thriller that showcases the author’s talent for weaving suspense, emotion, and complex characters into a fast-paced narrative. Published in 2005, this standalone novel diverges from Castillo’s well-known Kate Burkholder series, which is set in the Amish world, and instead delivers a story rooted in the high-stakes environment of legal prosecution and personal vendettas. The plot centers on Assistant District Attorney Kate Megason, a determined and skilled prosecutor preparing for the most significant case of her career—a double homicide captured on video, promising a seemingly straightforward conviction. However, as the trial approaches, Kate begins receiving chilling, anonymous threats that hint at a dark secret from her past. Eleven years earlier, Kate and her twin sister were brutally attacked, an assault that left her sister brain-damaged and the perpetrators uncaught. Kate survived, but the trauma has shaped her...

"Overkill" by Linda Castillo is a gripping romantic suspense novel that showcases the author’s talent for blending intense action with emotional depth. Published in 2007, this standalone work diverges from Castillo’s well-known Kate Burkholder series, which is set in the Amish community, and instead delivers a fast-paced thriller centered on a disgraced cop fighting to reclaim her life. The story follows Marty Hogan, a former Chicago police officer whose career implodes after a brutal case pushes her over the edge. Caught on video beating a suspect in a moment of rage, Marty loses her job and her sense of identity. With her reputation in tatters, she relocates to a small town in Texas, where the only police force willing to take a chance on her is led by Chief Clay Settlemeyer. Clay, a single father and ex-military cop, understands the weight of past mistakes and offers Marty a fresh start. However, her new beginning is quickly threatened when her former partner is savagely...

Sworn to Silence is a gripping crime thriller novel by Linda Castillo, first published in 2009. It marks the debut of her popular Kate Burkholder series, which blends mystery, suspense, and a deep dive into the world of the Amish. Set in the fictional small town of Painters Mill, Ohio, the story introduces readers to Kate Burkholder, a complex and compelling protagonist who serves as the town’s chief of police. Kate is a woman with a unique backstory: she was born and raised in the Amish community but left it behind after a traumatic event in her youth. Her insider knowledge of Amish culture, combined with her outsider status, makes her an intriguing bridge between two worlds. When a brutal murder occurs in Painters Mill, the peaceful town is shaken, and the crime bears eerie similarities to a series of unsolved killings from sixteen years earlier—killings that Kate has a personal connection to. As the body count rises, Kate is forced to confront her past while racing against time to...

"Invisible City" is the debut novel by Julia Dahl, a journalist turned author, published in 2014. It introduces readers to Rebekah Roberts, a young, determined stringer for a New York City tabloid who becomes entangled in a gripping murder mystery that hits close to home. The story blends crime fiction with a deep exploration of identity, family, and the secretive world of Brooklyn’s ultra-Orthodox Hasidic community. The novel opens with Rebekah, a recent college graduate, chasing stories in a declining newspaper industry. She’s assigned to cover the discovery of a naked, murdered woman found in a Gowanus scrapyard. The victim, Rivka Mendelssohn, is soon revealed to be a member of the Hasidic community, a group that operates with its own rules and wields significant influence over local authorities. To Rebekah’s shock, the NYPD allows the body to be buried without an autopsy, hinting at a cover-up driven by the community’s political clout. This ignites her journalistic inst...

The Ritual Bath is the debut novel by Faye Kellerman, first published in 1986, and it introduces readers to her iconic detective duo, Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus. This gripping mystery blends crime fiction with an exploration of cultural and religious themes, setting the stage for a long-running series that has captivated readers for decades. The story is set in a tight-knit Orthodox Jewish community in Los Angeles, where Rina Lazarus, a young widow and mikvah (ritual bath) attendant, becomes entangled in a chilling crime. When a brutal rape occurs at the mikvah—a sacred space where women perform a purification ritual—Rina’s quiet life is upended. Enter Peter Decker, a seasoned LAPD detective tasked with solving the case. Decker, a lapsed Baptist with a rugged exterior and a sharp mind, is immediately drawn to the intelligent and devout Rina, sparking a slow-burning connection that anchors the novel. Kellerman’s storytelling shines through her vivid portrayal of the Orthodox Jewi...

When the Bough Breaks is Jonathan Kellerman’s debut novel, first published in 1985, and it introduces readers to Dr. Alex Delaware, a child psychologist who becomes an amateur sleuth. The book kicks off what would become a long-running series, blending psychological depth with gritty crime drama. It’s a product of its time—think 1980s Los Angeles, with its mix of glitz, grime, and moral ambiguity—but its themes of trauma, power, and betrayal still hold up. The story centers on Alex Delaware, who’s semi-retired at 33 after burning out from years of working with troubled kids. He’s pulled back into the game when his friend, LAPD detective Milo Sturgis, asks for help with a brutal double murder case. The only witness is a seven-year-old girl named Melody Quinn, who’s traumatized and barely able to communicate. Alex, with his knack for getting through to kids, is brought in to coax out what she saw. But as he digs deeper, he uncovers a web of child abuse, corruption, and dark secrets tie...

"Blood on the Badge" is the gripping first installment in Mary Stone’s "A Villain’s Story" series, an FBI mystery thriller that dives deep into the complexities of justice, morality, and the shadows of a troubled past. Published in 2023, this novel introduces readers to Justice Hall, a 26-year-old rookie detective in the Elmaeder County Sheriff’s Office in East Texas. Justice is no ordinary cop—born Timothy Stewart, his life was irrevocably altered when the serial killer Justin Black, known as "The Disciple," murdered his family and groomed him as a child. Emerging from this trauma, Timothy reinvented himself as Justice Hall, a name that hauntingly echoes his tormentor’s, raising questions about whether it’s a mere coincidence or a lingering mark of his dark history. The story unfolds with Justice grappling with a high-stakes case: the disappearance of a senator’s son, a case his superiors want prioritized. But Justice has a chilling secret—the missing m...

"In the Lair of Legends" is an exhilarating debut novel by David Buzan, an award-winning author and optioned screenwriter known for his vivid storytelling and cinematic flair. Published by Black Rose Writing, this action-packed tale blends historical fiction, adventure, horror, and Western elements into a gripping narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Set in 1873 in the rugged Cascade Mountains of Oregon, the story follows Jolon Winterhawk, a Nez Perce warrior and the most highly decorated Native American in the history of the U.S. Cavalry, as he embarks on what should have been his final mission before retirement. Winterhawk, a combat veteran of the American Civil War, is tasked with escorting a military gold train through treacherous terrain. However, the mission quickly spirals into chaos when the train is ambushed by a band of traitorous soldiers led by the ruthless vigilante Ramón Cornadez, who aims to steal the gold for Mexico. ...

"Genoskwa" by Heath Stallcup is a gripping and action-packed novel that kicks off a series centered around a terrifying cryptid rooted in Iroquois legend. The Genoskwa, known as "ot ne yar hed" or "Stone Giant Man," is depicted as a larger, more aggressive cousin of the Sasquatch, infamous for its brutal strength and tendency to decapitate its foes. Stallcup weaves this folklore into a modern thriller, blending horror, suspense, and survival elements that keep readers on edge. The story begins with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force investigating a potential terrorist cell deep in the Catskill Mountains. What starts as a routine mission quickly spirals into chaos when the team encounters something far more sinister than human threats: the Genoskwa. The Albany field office agents find themselves outmatched by a creature that knows the terrain intimately, turning their investigation into a desperate fight for survival. The narrative thrives on its fast p...

"Rogue" by Luke Phillips is a gripping creature thriller that dives deep into the myths and mysteries surrounding Bigfoot, or Sasquatch, set against the rugged backdrop of Washington State’s mountains and forests. Published in 2023 by Black Beast Books, this novel blends horror, suspense, and cryptid lore into a fast-paced narrative that keeps readers on edge. The story centers on Nina Lee, a Forest Ranger tasked with investigating a series of missing persons cases in Mount Rainier National Park. What begins as routine work spirals into something far darker when reports of a killer bear and a string of brutal murders suggest a more sinister force at play. Nina’s father hints at a connection to their past, pointing to a vengeful presence tied to Sasquatch legend. This isn’t just a mindless monster tale—Phillips crafts a world where Sasquatch are portrayed as intelligent, tribal beings under government protection, yet one has gone rogue, turning the hunter into the hunted. ...

"Keep It in the Family" by John Marrs is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the dark secrets lurking within a seemingly ordinary family and their new home. Published in October 2022 by Thomas & Mercer, this chilling novel showcases Marrs’ signature style—twisty, unsettling, and packed with jaw-dropping revelations that keep readers hooked until the very end. The story centers on Mia and Finn, a young couple eager to transform a derelict house into their dream home. Living with Finn’s parents, Debbie and Dave, has strained their relationship, particularly Mia’s tense dynamic with her mother-in-law, Debbie. The discovery of an unexpected pregnancy adds urgency to their renovation plans, pushing them to create a space of their own. However, their excitement turns to horror when Mia uncovers a cryptic message carved into a skirting board: "I WILL SAVE THEM FROM THE ATTIC." This eerie clue leads them to a gruesome discovery in the attic—evidence tha...

"Saving Noah" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping and emotionally charged psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of human nature and the complexities of unconditional love. Published in 2017, the novel follows the unraveling of the Coates family after their teenage son, Noah, a seemingly perfect A-honor roll student and award-winning swimmer, confesses to molesting young girls during swim team practice. This shocking revelation shatters the family’s idyllic small-town life, thrusting them into a maelstrom of guilt, shame, and societal judgment. The story centers on Adrianne, Noah’s mother, who grapples with the horrific reality of her son’s actions while refusing to abandon him. Her unwavering maternal devotion stands in stark contrast to her husband, Lucas, who disowns Noah and forbids his return home after serving an 18-month sentence in a juvenile sexual rehabilitation center. As Noah re-enters society, the family faces further devastation—ostracism, bull...

The Perfect Child by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of adoption, family dynamics, and the dark side of human nature. Published in 2019, the novel has garnered attention for its unsettling narrative and exploration of psychological trauma. The story centers on Christopher and Hannah Bauer, a married couple eager to start a family. Christopher, a surgeon, encounters a six-year-old girl named Janie in the hospital where he works. Janie is a victim of severe abuse and neglect, abandoned and malnourished, with a haunting backstory that immediately tugs at Christopher’s heartstrings. Despite Hannah’s initial reservations—she’s a nurse and more pragmatic about the challenges ahead—the couple decides to take Janie in as foster parents, with hopes of eventually adopting her. What begins as an act of compassion quickly spirals into a nightmare as Janie’s disturbing behavior emerges, testing the limits of their marriage and sanity. Lucinda...

"When She Returned" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that dives deep into the complexities of family dynamics, trauma, and the unsettling power of cults. Published in 2019, this novel showcases Berry’s signature style—blending her background as a former clinical psychologist with a knack for crafting suspenseful, emotionally charged narratives. The story centers on Kate Bennett, a woman who vanishes without a trace from a Target parking lot, leaving behind her husband, Scott, and their young daughter, Abbi. Eleven years later, Kate reappears at a Montana gas station, clutching an infant and in a state of distress, sparking a media frenzy and upending the lives of her family. Scott, now remarried to Meredith, and Abbi, who has grown into a teenager with faint memories of her mother, are thrust into a whirlwind of confusion and hope. But Kate’s return is far from a joyful reunion. She’s a shadow of her former self—malnourished, psychologically scarred, an...

"The Best of Friends" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of friendship, family, and the devastating aftermath of a tragic event. Published on August 18, 2020, by Thomas & Mercer, the novel centers on three lifelong friends—Lindsey, Kendra, and Dani—who have grown up together in a wealthy Southern California suburb. Their bond extends to their teenage sons, Jacob, Sawyer, and Caleb, who are also close friends. The story begins with a shattering incident: a sleepover among the boys ends in catastrophe, leaving Sawyer dead from a gunshot wound, Jacob in a coma after a self-inflicted shot, and Caleb so traumatized that he’s unable or unwilling to speak. The narrative unfolds through the alternating perspectives of the three mothers, each grappling with grief, guilt, and a desperate need to uncover what happened that fateful night. As they investigate, the women confront unsettling questions: How could such a tragedy occur...

"The Secrets of Us" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of trauma, loyalty, and the haunting echoes of a troubled past. Published in June 2021 by Thomas & Mercer, the novel centers on foster sisters Krystal and Nichole, whose unbreakable bond is tested by a shocking event that unravels their carefully constructed lives. The story begins with a pulse-pounding premise: Nichole, who seemed to have found happiness as the wife of a successful architect, is suddenly committed to a psychiatric hospital after attempting to kill her husband, Aiden, in a house fire. She insists that the man she tried to burn alive isn’t her husband but an imposter. Krystal, now a respected lawyer, drops everything to defend her sister, driven by a fierce loyalty forged in their shared childhood struggles. As Krystal digs deeper, she’s forced to confront their dark history—secrets they buried long ago that threaten to resurface and destroy them b...

"Under Her Care" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family dynamics, maternal love, and the dark secrets that can unravel even the most seemingly perfect households. Published in 2022, this novel showcases Berry’s signature ability to weave unsettling narratives with her background as a former clinical psychologist specializing in childhood trauma, bringing authenticity and depth to her characters and their psychological struggles. The story unfolds in a small Alabama town on a humid summer day when the mayor’s wife, Annabelle Chapman, is found brutally murdered under a railroad bridge. Discovered at the scene is fourteen-year-old Mason Hill, a boy with autism, standing beside the body, covered in blood. Mason is the son of Genevieve Hill, a former Miss USA and a wealthy, well-connected figure known for her public devotion to her son. The townspeople quickly point fingers at Mason, assuming his presence and condition m...

"Missing Parts" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of family secrets, trauma, and the lengths one might go to protect their loved ones. Published in 2016, the novel follows Celeste, a woman who appears to have it all: a successful career, a devoted husband named David, and a four-year-old daughter, Rori. However, beneath this façade of perfection lies a fragile house of cards built on hidden truths from Celeste’s past. When Rori falls critically ill, the carefully constructed life Celeste has created begins to unravel, exposing secrets that threaten to destroy her marriage, family, and sanity. The story begins with Celeste’s determination to craft the ideal family, a goal rooted in her own childhood experience of being abandoned by her father and raised by a single mother. This backstory sets the stage for her intense need to maintain control over her life. However, as Rori’s health deteriorates, the pressure mounts, and ...

"Phantom Limb" by Lucinda Berry is a haunting and deeply psychological novel that delves into the complexities of trauma, memory, and the human psyche. Published in 2016, this character-driven story follows the lives of identical twin sisters, Emily and Elizabeth, who endure a nightmarish childhood marked by severe abuse and neglect. Locked in a bedroom for years by their alcoholic mother, the twins suffer unimaginable horrors—physical beatings, starvation, and exploitation—until they are rescued at age seven by a loving adoptive family, Bob and Dahlia. Despite this new beginning, the scars of their past prove too deep to fully heal, setting the stage for a gripping and emotional narrative. The story unfolds through Elizabeth’s perspective, picking up years later when she is a college student. She returns home to find her twin sister Emily dead by suicide, a devastating event that lands Elizabeth in a psychiatric hospital, strapped to a bed with fragmented memories. The las...

"Appetite for Innocence" is a dark psychological thriller by Lucinda Berry, a former clinical psychologist and USA Today bestselling author known for her gripping narratives rooted in trauma and human psychology. Published on April 11, 2017, by Rise Press, this novel delves into the harrowing experiences of two teenage girls, Ella and Sarah, who become victims of a serial rapist named John. The story unfolds through alternating perspectives and timelines—shifting between "Then" (their captivity) and "Now" (the aftermath)—offering a chilling exploration of survival, trauma, and the lingering effects of evil. The plot centers on John, a predator with a specific appetite: he targets virgins, stalking them through their social media updates and check-ins. Once captured, the girls are confined in a soundproof basement, where they are groomed until John deems them "ready." After he’s done with them, he discards them like trash—none escape alive. That...

The Quiet Tenant by Clémence Michallon is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the chilling dynamics of captivity, survival, and the unsettling facade of normalcy. Published in 2023, this debut novel has garnered attention for its tense narrative and complex character exploration, offering a fresh take on the serial killer trope. The story centers on Aidan Thomas, a seemingly unremarkable man living in a small town in upstate New York. To those around him—his neighbors, his teenage daughter Cecilia, and the community—he’s a quiet, polite widower and a hardworking restaurant owner. But beneath this carefully crafted exterior lies a dark secret: Aidan is a serial killer who has abducted and murdered multiple women. The novel’s twist lies in his current captive, referred to only as “Rachel,” whom he keeps locked in a shed on his property. When Aidan is forced to relocate after his wife’s death, he takes Rachel with him, presenting her to his daughter and the world as a new...

"Theme Music" by T. Marie Vandelly is a gripping debut novel that blends psychological thriller and horror elements into a chilling, unpredictable narrative. Published in 2019, it introduces readers to Dixie Wheeler, a woman haunted by a gruesome past she can barely remember. At just one year old, Dixie survived a horrific massacre when her father brutally murdered her mother and three brothers with an axe before taking his own life. Left as the sole survivor, she became infamously known as "Baby Blue," a nickname derived from the song playing in the aftermath of the slaughter. Twenty-five years later, Dixie is still grappling with the trauma and a longing to connect with the family she never truly knew. When her childhood home goes up for sale, she impulsively decides to buy it and move in, setting the stage for a descent into psychological turmoil and supernatural unease. The novel unfolds as Dixie attempts to reclaim her past by living in the house where the tr...

"Mary: An Awakening of Terror" is a debut horror novel by Nat Cassidy, published in July 2022 by Tor Nightfire. It follows the story of Mary, a quiet, middle-aged woman who has spent much of her life trying to remain unnoticed—unremarkable and invisible, even to herself. However, as she approaches perimenopause, strange and unsettling changes begin to take hold. Alongside physical symptoms like hot flashes and body aches, Mary experiences disturbing psychological shifts: she faints at the sight of her reflection, hears voices urging her toward violence, and finds herself auto-writing cryptic messages she doesn’t remember composing. The narrative kicks off when Mary, recently fired from her bookstore job in New York City, returns to her hometown of Arroyo, Arizona, to care for her ailing, abrasive aunt, Nadine. This move marks a turning point as her symptoms intensify, and she’s plagued by visions of mutilated, ghostly figures—specters tied to a dark history she can’t fully ...

"Suffer the Children" by Craig DiLouie is a haunting and emotionally charged horror novel that dives deep into the darkest corners of human instinct and parental love. Published in 2014, this apocalyptic tale introduces readers to a world shattered by Herod’s Syndrome, a mysterious and devastating illness that strikes without warning, killing every pre-pubescent child across the globe in a matter of hours. The initial blow is gut-wrenching enough, but DiLouie takes it further: three days later, the children return from the dead, seemingly normal—except for their insatiable need for human blood to stay "alive." What follows is a chilling exploration of desperation, morality, and the lengths to which people will go to hold onto those they love. The story centers on a handful of characters, primarily parents grappling with this nightmarish reality. Joan, a devoted stay-at-home mom, and her husband Doug, a working-class everyman, represent an everyday family torn apar...

"Bunker Dogs" by Gage Greenwood is a gripping horror novel that plunges readers into a nightmarish scenario blending psychological tension, supernatural terror, and a post-apocalyptic backdrop. Released in 2023, the story follows Cassie, a college student and occasional babysitter, whose routine night watching a young boy named James takes a dark turn when chaos erupts outside. Bombs explode in the distance, planes roar overhead, and phone alerts urge her to seek shelter. Fortunately, James reveals that his father has a bunker in the backyard—a supposed safe haven. However, once inside, Cassie discovers they’re not alone. Something sinister lurks within the bunker’s walls, turning their refuge into a claustrophobic trap. Greenwood crafts a tale that’s as much about internal struggle as it is about external threats. Cassie is a deeply flawed protagonist, haunted by trauma from her brother’s suicide and a fractured family life, which unfolds through well-timed flashbacks. The...

"Mine" by L.M. Kaplin is a gripping psychological thriller/horror novel that delves into the fractured mind of its protagonist, Chandler Henricks. Published in 2023, the story follows Chandler, a socially awkward near-recluse who despises his mundane existence. His days are spent observing his neighbors from the confines of his home, but his voyeuristic tendencies take a dark turn when he becomes fixated on Samantha, a woman living nearby. What begins as an unsettling obsession spirals into a chilling descent into madness, as Chandler’s distorted thoughts and desires drive him toward increasingly violent and delusional actions. The novel stands out for its exploration of mental instability, offering readers a front-row seat to Chandler’s unraveling psyche. His character is both pitiable and disturbing—initially relatable in his loneliness and social anxiety, yet shocking as his behavior escalates. The narrative builds tension effectively, blending moments of unease with bur...

"Perverted Little Freak" is a horror novel by Rick Wood, part of his Blood Splatter Books series, known for its extreme gore and provocative storytelling. Published in 2024, the book dives into the dark and twisted journey of Briony, a seemingly unremarkable teenage girl who undergoes a dramatic transformation after a traumatic encounter. Wood, a prolific horror and thriller author based in Cheltenham, crafts a narrative that blends graphic violence with psychological depth, appealing to fans of splatterpunk and extreme horror. The story begins with Briony, described as a dull, overlooked 18-year-old living a mundane life marked by teenage struggles like bullying and insecurity. She connects with a man named Adam online, drawn in by his apparent affection. However, when they meet, Adam reveals his true, sinister intentions, luring her to a hotel room where he assaults her. In a desperate act of self-defense, Briony kills him, an event that flips her world upside down. Sudde...

"The Devil's Debt" by Rick Wood is a gripping horror novel that blends dark supernatural elements with a twisted take on redemption and morality. Published as part of Wood’s Blood Splatter Books series, it delivers a fast-paced, gruesome, and emotionally charged story that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The plot centers on Brian, a self-absorbed and downtrodden man who dies on Christmas Eve, only to find himself face-to-face with the Devil. In a Faustian twist, the Devil offers Brian a deal: he can avoid Hell, keep his life, and gain immense wealth, but there’s a catch. Seven years later, the Devil will return to collect a debt—one life for each year Brian has lived in luxury. When the seven years are up, it’s Christmas Eve again, and the Devil comes calling. Brian must take seven lives within 24 hours or face an eternity of torment in Hell. What follows is a nightmarish descent as Brian grapples with his task, spiraling into a murder spree that tests his hu...

"Home Invasion" by Rick Wood is a gripping horror novel published in 2021 as part of his Blood Splatter Books series. Known for his intense and visceral storytelling, Wood delivers a fast-paced, gore-filled tale that dives deep into the home invasion subgenre of horror, blending brutal violence with psychological tension and unexpected twists. The story centers on Noah Clark, a lawyer who has recently decided to leave his career defending criminals to focus on spending more time with his family. However, his past comes back to haunt him in the form of Leon, a vengeful and rage-driven young man whose brother’s killer walked free thanks to Noah’s courtroom skills. Leon, accompanied by a small gang, breaks into Noah’s home with one goal: to exact ruthless, bloody revenge. He holds Noah’s family hostage, forcing Noah to watch as they endure slow, sadistic torture. Initially, Noah cooperates, hoping to protect his loved ones, but as the night progresses and Leon’s intentions bec...

Boyfriend by Sarina Bowen is a contemporary romance novel that blends humor, heart, and a touch of sports flair. Published in October 2023, it’s part of Bowen’s broader catalog of romance stories, often celebrated for their relatable characters and emotional depth. This standalone novel centers on Abbi, a hardworking barista with a no-nonsense attitude, and Weston, a charming hockey player who’s more than meets the eye. The story kicks off with a quirky meet-cute when Weston, strapped for cash, tries to barter a date for a coffee at Abbi’s shop. What starts as a playful exchange spirals into a fake-dating arrangement that, predictably yet delightfully, blurs the lines between pretense and real feelings. Bowen’s signature style shines through in Boyfriend. She crafts a slow-burn romance that balances witty banter with tender moments, making the evolution of Abbi and Weston’s relationship feel earned. Abbi is a standout—independent, sharp-tongued, and carrying just enough baggage to ma...

"Variation" by Rebecca Yarros is a contemporary romance novel that weaves a poignant tale of second chances, family secrets, and emotional healing. Published on November 19, 2024, by Montlake, this standalone story marks a return to Yarros’ roots in contemporary romance, showcasing her skill in crafting character-driven narratives filled with heart, tension, and steamy chemistry. Known for her #1 New York Times bestselling fantasy novel "Fourth Wing," Yarros brings her signature emotional depth to this tale, set against the evocative backdrop of Cape Cod. The story centers on Alessandra "Allie" Rousseau, an elite ballerina from a prestigious ballet dynasty, and Hudson Ellis, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. Their romance begins as teenagers during idyllic summers in Haven Cove, where Hudson saves Allie and one of her sisters from a leaky rowboat, sparking a deep friendship that teeters on the edge of something more. However, their budding relationship is sh...

"Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why It Matters, and How to Harness It" by Ethan Kross is a compelling exploration of the inner voice that shapes our thoughts, emotions, and actions. Published in January 2021 by Crown, this book blends cutting-edge psychological research with practical advice, offering readers a deep dive into the science of self-talk and its profound impact on our lives. Kross, a renowned psychologist and director of the University of Michigan’s Emotion & Self Control Laboratory, draws from his extensive research and real-world case studies to unpack why we talk to ourselves, how this internal dialogue can both help and hinder us, and what we can do to manage it effectively. The central premise of "Chatter" is that the voice in our head is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a unique human superpower that aids in problem-solving, self-reflection, and planning. On the other, it can spiral into what Kross calls "chatter"—a cycle o...

"Shift: Managing Your Emotions—So They Don’t Manage You" by Ethan Kross is a compelling exploration of how we can harness our emotions to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Published in February 2025, this book builds on Kross’s earlier work, "Chatter," and draws from his extensive research as a psychologist and director of the Emotion & Self Control Laboratory at the University of Michigan. Known for his ability to blend rigorous science with accessible storytelling, Kross offers a fresh perspective on emotions, challenging the idea that they are inherently "good" or "bad" and instead framing them as vital sources of information. The central premise of "Shift" is that emotions act like an internal guidance system, akin to an immune system, alerting us to our surroundings and helping us navigate life’s challenges. Whether it’s the anxiety of a looming deadline, the rage of a traffic jam, or the heartbreak of a breakup, Kross a...