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Lingering Literature
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Lingering Literature
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About

My Most Recent Read: You Shouldn’t Have Come Here

Author: Jeneva Rose

Genre: Thriller/Suspense

My Rating: 4.5/5

Review:

Alright guys, this book was a no-brainer choice for me. I’m not sure if any of you have read The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose — but if you have, you already know she’s an incredible storyteller. Of course, Jeneva wrote this one too, and once again, she did not disappoint.

Jeneva Rose has rightfully earned her reputation as the “queen of twists”, and this book is a perfect example of why. Whenever I read one of her novels, I spend the entire time trying to predict what the twist will be, and I’m never even close. Her surprises aren’t just shocking or unexpected — they’re genuinely so twisted (hence, why we call them plot twists). What’s even more impressive is that her writing itself is so captivating that the twists aren’t the only thing holding the story up. The book stands out as a phenomenal entry in the psychological thriller genre because it feels so real and grounded. Her style actually reminds me a bit of Karin Slaughter’s, though not quite as dark — which, honestly, I appreciate sometimes.

As for the story, it’s set in Wyoming, where a woman named Grace escapes her hectic life in New York and books an Airbnb hosted by a quiet country man named Calvin. From the very start, something about Calvin and the Airbnb feels a little off, but the author does such a brilliant job of convincing you everything is fine that you start to question your own instincts as a reader. It’s such a unique and immersive reading experience.

I won’t say more because I don’t want to spoil a single twist, but trust me — read this book. It’s tense, addictive, and full of surprises you’ll never see coming.

Book: These Silent Woods

Author: Kimi Cunningham Grant

Genre: Suspense/Survival

My Rating: 5/5

Review:

To be honest, I didn’t expect to enjoy These Silent Woods as much as I did. I initially bought it simply because it was a few dollars off at a bookstore, and from the description on the back cover, it seemed like something I wouldn’t normally reach for. Even after purchasing it, it sat on my shelf for quite some time—I just couldn’t convince myself to start a story narrated by a male protagonist. What I failed to consider, though, was that the author, Kimi Cunningham Grant, is a woman, and in my experience, female authors tend to craft male characters who are far more nuanced, empathetic, and respectful. Too often, the male authors I’ve read (not all, of course) portray their male leads as overly hardened, prideful, or subtly sexist.

Anyway, this book is absolutely gorgeous. Grant captures the Appalachian winter so vividly that I could almost believe she wrote the entire novel while tucked away in a snow-covered cabin herself. The bond between the father and daughter is especially touching—tender, rare, and familial. It felt like reading about the ultimate “girl dad,” one who is both fiercely protective and profoundly gentle, and it warmed my heart in ways I didn’t expect.

Beyond its emotional depth, the novel carries a quiet spirituality and sense of redemption. Early on, I suspected that Grant might be a follower of Christ, though that isn’t explicitly revealed until near the end, when a single Bible verse ties everything together. The subtle thread of faith running throughout the story made it all the more powerful. By the final pages, I found myself deeply moved—the novel is heartbreaking, yet also healing and full of grace.

Book: Love, Mom

Author: Iliana Xander

Genre: Thriller/Suspense

My Rating: 4/5

Review:

I’m so glad I picked up Love, Mom by Iliana Xander! I randomly found it while wandering around Barnes & Noble in Spokane, WA, and wow—I did not expect to get this hooked.

Even though it’s labeled a thriller, it felt more like a mystery to me. It wasn’t super dark or twisty like some thrillers I’ve read recently, but it still kept me on edge the whole time. The suspense just builds—in a quiet, sneaky way.

To give you a bit more background, the story is told through standard chapters, but also a significant series of letters written by the main character Mackenzie’s mother—letters Mackenzie receives after her mother has passed away. Most of them were written while her mom was pregnant with her, but what makes them so compelling is the tone. They sound nothing like the mother Mackenzie knew growing up. The woman in the letters feels like a completely different person, which makes you (and the main character) start to question everything Mackenzie thought she knew about her.

I highly recommend this book if you want something that keeps you thinking but doesn’t totally wreck your brain or make you scared to walk to the bathroom in the middle of the night like some thrillers do.

TW: Multiple mentions of SA

Book: The Children of Jocasta

Author: Natalie Haynes

Genre/ Greek Mythology/Historical Fiction

My Rating: 4/5

Review:

I absolutely adored this book. That said, it did take me a couple of weeks to really get into it. At first, it felt similar to many other classical myth retellings I’ve read — and I’ve read quite a few — so I was worried it might fall into the same familiar rhythms as The Song of Achilles or The Silence of the Girls. Don’t get me wrong, I loved those novels, but with The Children of Jocasta, I was hoping for something with a distinct kind of feminine perspective, especially since it centers on Jocasta. I’m so glad I stuck with it. Haynes brings Thebes to life with such vivid, sensory detail that I could practically feel the heat and smell the dust rising off the streets. I’m also a sucker for dual narratives, and this one really delivers. The shift between timelines is seamless, and the tone — rich with mythic resonance — remains consistent throughout. It’s beautifully done.

**I would not recommend this book to anyone that does not do well reading about darker emotional aspects like existential weight**

Book: Pretty Girls

Author: Karin Slaughter

Genre: Psychological Thriller

My Rating: 4.5/5

Review:

Oh this book…Incredibly well written. Karin Slaughter is a phenomenal author, and she definitely doesn’t hold back when it comes to creating disturbing, unforgettable antagonists. While I was reading the last few chapters, my watch actually alerted me that my heart rate had hit 160 bpm — which is what it normally hits during a serious workout — and that’s all I’ll say about that, because you really need to experience it for yourself. Lately, I’ve been getting more into psychological thrillers, especially as I’ve gotten older (probably because I’m less scared of the dark now — lol), and this one absolutely knocked my socks off. What truly got under my skin wasn’t just the suspense or the violence — it was realizing that there are people in the world who are actually capable of the kind of cruelty portrayed in this story. That made it genuinely unsettling… almost sickening. And that’s the only reason I docked half a point: it was almost too real. Too dark. But wow — what a ride.

** TW: There is sexual violence, misogyny, and descriptions of human trafficking in this book**

Book: Medusa’s Sisters

Author: Lauren J.A. Bear

Genre: Greek Mythology

My Rating: 5/5

Review:

If you don’t know this about me already, I’m a diehard fan of ancient myths — especially Greek mythology. I love the themes of fate and destiny, the layered storytelling, the endless retellings, and the fresh perspectives that modern authors bring to these ancient tales. I love it all. What made Medusa’s Sisters especially captivating for me was how beautifully it portrayed the complexity of sisterhood. It captured not only the joy and deep bond between the sisters, but also the raw, frustrating moments — and still showed how fiercely loyal they remain to one another, no matter what they face. That emotional honesty really stuck with me, especially since I have a sister - my best friend in the entire world on both good days and bad. This book was both beautiful and so unique for reasons such as that. I had never read a story that gave so much depth and attention to Medusa’s Gorgon sisters, who are very often overlooked or flattened into monsters in most versions of the myth. Here, they’re brought to life as intelligent, courageous, and emotionally rich characters. FANTASTIC!

**If you know the original story of Medusa, you know what is coming in this book (there is one depiction of r*pe.) Besides that, there is no reason that anyone should not want to read this book. I would recommend it to anyone**

Book: Never Lie

Author: Freida McFadden

Genre: Suspense/Mystery/Thriller

Rating: 5/5

Review:

FREIDA! What a ride! This was my first novel by her, and I am absolutely blown away. It’s clear from the very first chapter that she knows exactly how to craft a gripping story. The plot is a whirlwind of twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Just when I thought I had figured out where the story was headed, Freida would throw in another jaw-dropping twist that left me questioning everything I thought I knew. Seriously, it’s almost as if she’s playing a game with you, constantly keeping you on your toes and proving you wrong—sometimes in the most delightfully rude way, haha!

The pacing is incredible. It’s fast, it’s gripping, and it’s practically impossible to put down once you start. I found myself so immersed in the story that I devoured the entire book in one sitting. The writing is clear and accessible, making it easy to read in general and get lost in the plot without feeling confused by overly complex details. In short, this book is unputdownable—an absolute page-turner that I highly recommend to anyone looking for an exciting, unpredictable read. I can’t wait to dive into more of her work!

**TW: Liars (lol)**

Book: The Invisible Life of Addie Larue

Author: V.E. Schwab

Genre: Historical Fantasy (Kind of)

Rating: 6/5

Review:

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue is probably in my “Top 5” for the best books I have ever read. I do not think I have read a book that is as mind-boggling as this one. I loved the characters and Addie is so resourceful and strong. I don’t always like fantasy, but the premise alone drew me into purchasing this book: “a woman cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets, living through centuries in the shadows of history.” I mean, come on! Who wouldn't want to read that?

I am not exaggerating when I say that every sentence of this book felt intentional, there was not one detail that I thought of as irrelevant or used to fill space. I wanted to hear it all. What really blew me away was how Schwab balances themes of identity, memory, and the choices we make - and literally, each sentence reflected that. Addie’s struggle with being forgotten, with not leaving a mark on the world, felt universal, but it was also deeply unique to her. And then there’s the unexpected twist of a love story that grows out of her curse—a relationship that’s both heartbreaking and hopeful. Also, the author does such a wonderful job of exploring the idea of what it means to truly live, and what it means to be remembered. The ending? I won’t spoil anything, but let’s just say it was the kind of conclusion that left me staring at the wall. I thought about this book long after I finished reading it. It’s one of those books that stays with you, making you reflect on life, love, and the choices that define who we are.

**TW: This book will probbaly make you cry**

Book: Archer’s Voice

Author: Mia Sheridan

Genre: Romance

Rating; 5/5

Review:

Stunning. Heartbreaking. Romantic. Sweet. ALL OF THE ABOVE. I adored this book. From the very first page, I was drawn into the quiet, beautiful world of Archer Hale. There’s something so raw and tender about his story—his struggles, his silence, and his deep, unspoken pain. Mia Sheridan has such a magical way of weaving emotion into her writing, and she brought Archer to life in a way that felt both heartbreaking and inspiring.

But what truly sets this story apart is the way it highlights not only Archer’s healing but also Bree’s. Bree is just as compelling, and I found her just as layered and complex as Archer. She’s a woman who’s suffered her own losses and struggles, and when she moves to the small town of Pelion (the town in Maine where this book is based in), she’s looking for a fresh start—something she doesn’t expect to find in Archer. Bree is brave, strong, and compassionate, and it’s her patience and understanding that ultimately help Archer begin to heal.

Archer and Bree are characters who I thought about long after I finished the book. They are complex, vulnerable, and so incredibly strong in ways that are impossible to describe without reading it for yourself. Also, the pacing of the book is perfect, the romance is heartfelt without feeling rushed, and the emotional payoff is absolutely worth it. It’s one of those books that you don’t just read—you experience it. It gets under your skin in the best possible way and leaves you with a full heart.

If you’re looking for a beautiful, moving story about love, healing, and second chances, Archer’s Voice is a must-read. I truly cannot recommend it enough.

**Not intended for readers under 18, at all**

Book: When She Returned

Author: Lucinda Berry

Genre: Psychological Suspense

Rating: 3/5

Review:

Ugh. This book. Okay, don’t get me wrong, I LOVE Lucinda Berry, she is phenomenal, and her background and career as a clinical psychologist speaks through her novels, and she is brilliant, but I do want to touch on this one.

I had no idea what to expect when I picked this one up. I’ve loved all of Lucinda Berry’s other books, but this one? It left me genuinely infuriated with the characters — and I mean that as both a compliment and a complaint.

Here’s what I’ll tell you: this book is about a woman who gets drawn into a cult and abandons her family in the process. Was she brainwashed? Yes. Did I feel bad for her? Also yes. But she was unbearable at times. Still, my rage was nothing compared to what I felt toward the cult leader. That man stressed me out so badly I had to put the book down, walk laps around the ferry to Bellingham, WA, and hunt down a Coke Zero just to calm my nerves. (That’s how serious it was.)

All that to say: Lucinda Berry clearly nailed the writing. It takes serious talent to make me feel that emotionally wrecked over fictional people. So, 5/5 for the writing — no question. But my personal rating? 3/5, because the sheer amount of anger this book pulled out of me almost made me regret reading it. Almost.

**TW: Bad things happen in cults**

Book: The Way I Used to Be

Author: Amber Smith

Genre:

Rating: 5/5

Review:

The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith is one of those books that completely shook me to my core in the best way. Honestly, I don’t even know where to start—this book is just so powerful and raw. It’s one of those stories that hits you right in the gut and doesn’t let go. I went into it not really knowing what to expect, and I was absolutely blown away by how much it affected me.

The story follows Eden, a high schooler who experiences something no one should ever have to go through, and the way Amber Smith writes about it is heartbreaking, but so moving. What I think hit me the hardest is how real the aftermath of trauma is. Eden doesn’t just “get over it”—it affects everything, from her relationships to her mental health to how she views herself. Amber Smith doesn’t shy away from showing how complicated and messy the healing process is, and that really resonated with me. It helped me confirm and really understand that recovery isn’t linear.

This book isn’t easy to read, but it’s worth it. It’s a reminder that healing takes time, and it’s messy—but it’s possible. The Way I Used to Be is a story that stays with you long after you’ve finished it, and I honestly can’t recommend it enough.

**Not Intended for Readers Under 18**

Book: The Nightingale

Author: Kristin Hannah

Genre: Historical Fiction (includes MANY nonfictional events — it’s inspired by a true story)

My Rating: 10/5 (yes, those numbers are placed correctly)

Review:

Okay sooo… I actually read this almost 3 years ago, but I wanted to touch on it because I still think about it to this day. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah almost became a DNF for me. I’m being real—around the 100-page mark, I was so close to putting it down. I just wasn’t getting into it like I thought I would, and I kept thinking, “Why is my mom obsessed with Kristin Hannah books?”

BUT. I am so glad I kept going because if I had stopped, I would’ve missed out on one of the most powerful, beautifully written books I’ve ever read. This may actually be the best book I have read so far in my lifetime.

Once things started clicking for me, I was in. The way Kristin Hannah writes is just next-level. It’s so emotional and descriptive, but not in a way that feels heavy. Like, I could actually picture every little thing—the dusty French countryside roads, the quiet tension in the air, and the fear that just sits in the background of every moment. And don’t even get me started on the characters. Vianne and Isabelle are such complete opposites, but I loved how their stories unfolded in these totally different but equally heartbreaking ways.

There’s one scene I legit cannot stop thinking about—when Isabelle is hiking through the freaking Alps with a group of Jewish children, trying to get them to safety. Like?? She’s exhausted, freezing, and literally risking everything. The way it’s written—you feel every breath, every step, every ounce of fear and courage. I had chills. And tears. And then more chills because I swear I could hear the crunch of hiking on snow as I was reading.

By the time I finished, I was upset that it was over but also relieved for the characters. It’s not just a war story—it’s about love, resilience, sisterhood, and doing what’s right even when it would be so much easier, and far less terrifying, to do what is wrong.

So if you’re like me and struggling to get into it at first: don’t give up. Seriously. Push through those early pages. Totally worth it. This one will stay with me for a long time.

TW: Obviously, most things that occur in WWII come up in this book: Brutality, sa, antisemitism, etc.

Book: The Perfect Child

Author: Lucinda Berry

Genre: Psychological Thriller

Rating: 5/5

Review:

Okay, so The Perfect Child by Lucinda Berry? Yeah…Absolutely not (but 110% - read it). I went into this thinking, "Oh, cool, a psychological thriller, I love those!" Well, let me tell you—this book has absolutely haunted me. I’m sitting here questioning every child I’ve ever met, wondering if they’re secretly plotting my demise. I feel like I needed two weeks just to recover from the ending. By the end of the book, you’re sitting there, mouth agape (don’t get lock-jaw), trying to figure out what just happened.

Seriously though, as much as this book had me checking under my bed and around corners for a little girl named Janie, this book was so well written — I could not put it down. There was so much tension and suspense and I had the constant feeling of “something is coming and I am not prepared for it.” And I was right, I was not prepared for any of the twists in this book. They did not just shock me, they made me genuinely scared, but also in awe of how the author makes everything come together in the most twisted and insane way possible.

In conclusion, The Perfect Child is a terrifying, heart-pounding read that I couldn’t put down. If you love psychological thrillers and you’re ready to have your nerves shredded while also being completely hooked by a masterful plot, this is your book. But... be prepared for some serious heart palpitations. And maybe don’t read it late at night unless you want to spend the next few hours questioning every child you see. But despite all the terror, and locking my door before bed…afraid Janie would make her way to my home in Alaska, or Utah, I couldn’t have loved it more.

**TW: Child Psychopaths**

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