Book Review: Witness 8

Title: Witness 8

Author: Steve Cavanagh

Publisher: Atria Books

Publication Date: March 11, 2025

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Steve Cavanagh's "Witness 8" is a gripping addition to the Eddie Flynn series, showcasing the author's talent for crafting intricate legal thrillers. This eighth installment follows Eddie Flynn, a former con artist turned defense attorney, as he takes on another seemingly hopeless case.

The plot centers around John Jackson, accused of murder with damning evidence against him. Complicating matters is Ruby Johnson, a former Manhattan elite now working as a maid.Ruby's involvement as a witness to a murder adds a twisted dimension to the plot, as her intentions are far from straightforward. The chapters written from Ruby's perspective provide a chilling insight into her psyche and motivations.

While Eddie grapples with defending his client, he must also contend with a hit placed on his own life, corrupt NYPD officers, and the shooting of his long-time friend and mentor, Harry. These multiple threads weave together to create a tapestry of tension and suspense that keeps the pages turning.

Cavanagh's trademark twists and surprises are in full force here, continually challenging readers' assumptions and keeping them guessing until the very end. The author's ability to balance the courtroom drama with high-stakes action showcases his versatility as a writer.

"Witness 8" is a testament to Cavanagh's understanding of the legal thriller genre. It's a riveting, multi-layered thriller that combines psychological depth with breakneck pacing, making it a must-read for fans of crime fiction and an excellent entry point for newcomers to the series.

A big thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: The Business Trip

Title: The Business Trip

Author: Jessie Garcia

Publisher: St Martin's Press

Publication Date: January 14, 2025

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Jessie Garcia's debut thriller "The Business Trip" is a gripping, page-turning adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. This masterfully crafted novel follows the mysterious disappearance of two women, Stephanie and Jasmine, whose paths unexpectedly intertwine during a fateful business trip journey.

Garcia's storytelling prowess shines through her unique narrative structure, presenting the story from various character perspectives and in non-chronological parts. This approach adds layers of complexity to the plot, keeping readers guessing throughout.

The novel's pacing is relentless, with each chapter building tension and drawing readers deeper into the enigma surrounding Trent McCarthy and the two missing women. Garcia expertly weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of suspense that spans from Madison to San Diego, Atlanta, and eventually Mexico.

One of the book's strongest aspects is its unpredictability. Just when readers think they've figured out the puzzle, Garcia delivers a stunning twist in the final section that reshapes the entire narrative. This unexpected turn of events showcases the author's skill in crafting a truly surprising and satisfying conclusion.

"The Business Trip" marks Jessie Garcia as a promising talent in the thriller genre. With its addictive storyline, relatable characters, and masterful manipulation of reader expectations, this novel is highly recommended for fans of psychological thrillers and mystery enthusiasts alike.

A big thank you to St Martin's Press and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: To Die For

Title: To Die For

Author: David Baldacci

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing

Publication Date: November 12, 2025

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

David Baldacci delivers another explosive page-turner with "To Die For," the third installment in the Travis Devine series. This
high-octane thriller takes readers on a coast-to-coast adventure, from Washington D.C. to Seattle, in a non-stop action ride that will keep you glued to your seat.

Travis Devine, our resourceful protagonist, returns with his usual knack for accomplishing any mission. This time, however, he's tasked with what seems like a straightforward assignment: escorting twelve-year-old orphan Betsy Odom to meet her uncle in Seattle. But as any Baldacci fan knows, nothing is ever simple in his world of intrigue and danger.

One of the strengths of "To Die For" is Baldacci's ability to balance high-stakes action with character development. The relationship between Devine and Betsy adds depth to the story, while the looming confrontation with the girl on the train adds an extra layer of tension throughout.

As Devine digs deeper into the circumstances surrounding Betsy's parents' deaths, he uncovers a conspiracy far more extensive than he could have imagined. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the very end. Baldacci's masterful storytelling shines as he weaves together multiple threads, including the return of the enigmatic "girl on the train" - a nemesis whose backstory is finally explored, completing her character arc in a satisfying way.

For those who enjoy roller-coaster rides filled with twists, turns, and heart-pounding action, "To Die For" delivers in spades. With crisp prose and relentless pacing, this is a stellar addition to the 6:20 Man series and leaves readers eagerly anticipating Devine's next adventure.

A big thank you to Grand Cental Publishing and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: The Second Fifty

Title: The Second Fifty

Author: Debra Whitman

Publisher: W.W. Norton and Company

Publication Date: September 10, 2024

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Debra Whitman's "The Second Fifty" offers a compelling and comprehensive guide to navigating life after 50, drawing from her experience as AARP's chief public policy officer and former staff director for the Senate Special Committee on Aging. The book addresses eight crucial questions about longevity, health, work, finances, housing, and end-of-life considerations. This organization allows readers to easily focus on areas most relevant to their current situation, making the book both accessible and practical.

What sets "The Second Fifty" apart from other retirement-focused books is its holistic approach. While many similar works primarily emphasize financial planning, Whitman broadens the scope to include often overlooked aspects such as housing choices, work considerations, and death preparation. This comprehensive view provides readers with a more complete picture of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Whitman's writing style is engaging and relatable, blending personal stories from across the country with groundbreaking research and policy insights. This combination of anecdotal evidence and hard data creates a well-rounded exploration of each topic. The author not only identifies challenges but also offers practical advice and potential solutions, making this book both informative and actionable.

One of the book's strengths is its focus on societal inequalities, highlighting key disparities between white and Black/Hispanic populations, as well as between rich and poor. This attention to social issues adds depth to the discussion and emphasizes the need for broader societal changes to support an aging population.

For readers approaching retirement or already in their later years, "The Second Fifty" serves as an invaluable resource. It prompts important self-reflection and planning, while also advocating for community and policy changes that could benefit all in their later years.

A big thank you to WW Norton and Company and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: Nemesis

Title: Nemesis

Author: Gregg Hurwitz

Publisher: St Martins Press

Publication Date: February 21, 2025

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Gregg Hurwitz delivers another pulse-pounding installment in the Orphan X series with "Nemesis," the tenth book, pitting Evan Smoak against his closest ally. This bold move creates a tension-filled narrative exploring the limits of friendship and honor.

Unlike previous entries, "Nemesis" doesn't focus on a typical Nowhere Man mission. Instead, Evan finds himself embroiled in a personal vendetta, seeking justice for murdered Mexican immigrants while simultaneously confronting his former best friend, Tommy Stojack. This departure from the usual formula allows Hurwitz to delve deeper into Evan's psyche, showcasing his character's growth as he grapples with newfound emotions during his mission.

The novel shines in its action sequences, particularly the ambush in Tommy's workshop and a spectacular old-fashioned shootout in a Western town. These set pieces demonstrate Hurwitz's skill in crafting visceral, edge-of-your-seat moments.

"Nemesis" also explores the consequences of rigid adherence to principles, as Evan's unwavering commitment to his assassin's Ten Commandments puts him at odds with the concept of friendship. This conflict adds a layer of moral complexity to the narrative, elevating it beyond a simple thriller.

While the focus is primarily on Evan, the novel also showcases growth in supporting characters, particularly Joey, who learns hard lessons about the consequences of trying to fit in. 

Overall, "Nemesis" is a solid addition to the Orphan X series, offering high-stakes action, complex character development, and a fresh twist on the established formula. Fans of Evan Smoak will find plenty to appreciate, even as it pushes the boundaries of what they've come to expect from the series.

A big thank you to St Martins Press and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: Confident AI

Title: Confident AI

Author: Andy Pardoe

Publisher: Kogan Page

Publication Date: July 3, 2024

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars

Andy Pardoe's "Confident AI" aims to demystify artificial intelligence for readers seeking to understand and engage with this ubiquitous technology. Drawing from his extensive experience in the AI industry, Pardoe provides a guide to navigating the AI landscape, covering fundamentals and exploring career opportunities in the field.

While the book offers a broad overview of AI, it falls short in several areas. The writing style is dry and repetitive, which will challenge readers looking for a more engaging narrative. It disappoints in its lack of pragmatic discussion about AI applications in business contexts. I was hoping for practical insights on integrating AI into business operations and I found the focus on different careers and roles less useful. The best chapter was on governance, ethics, and safety in AI, addressing crucial aspects often overlooked in technical discussions.

Despite its shortcomings, the book provides a comprehensive look at the AI industry, which may benefit those new to the field. It could serve as a starting point for readers looking to enter the AI space, though those seeking a more engaging or practical guide to AI implementation should plan to look elsewhere.

A big thank you to Kogan Page and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: How to Retire

Title: How to Retire

Author: Christine Benz

Publisher: Harriman House

Publication Date: September 17, 2024

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Christine Benz's "How to Retire" offers a comprehensive look at the multifaceted aspects of retirement planning through interviews with 20 thought leaders in the field. This anthology-style approach provides readers with a wide array of expert insights, covering everything from financial strategies to quality-of-life considerations.

The book's structure, featuring 20 chapters each dedicated to a different expert, allows for a broad exploration of retirement topics. While this format provides diverse perspectives, it may leave some readers wanting more depth in certain areas and less in others. The financial aspects of retirement are particularly well-covered, with in-depth discussions on retirement income styles, spending changes, and portfolio management.

Benz doesn't neglect the non-financial aspects of retirement, touching on subjects like optimizing happiness, nurturing relationships, and living without regrets. However, these "softer" topics receive less attention compared to the financial planning elements, which might disappoint readers seeking a more balanced approach.

One of the book's strengths is its practical focus, with each chapter concluding with valuable "takeaways" that summarize key points. These summaries serve as excellent quick-reference guides for readers looking to revisit specific advice.

While some chapters can be slow-paced and dry due to the nature of the subject matter, the variety of topics covered—from visualizing retirement lifestyle to maximizing social security and managing health concerns—keeps the overall reading experience engaging.

This book is recommended for individuals seeking a well-rounded understanding of retirement planning, particularly those interested in the financial aspects of this life transition. The expert insights and practical takeaways make it a worthwhile read for anyone looking to approach retirement with confidence and wisdom.

A big thank you to Harriman House and NetGalley for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Book Review: A Random Kill

Title: A Random Kill

Author: Andrew Barrett

Publisher: The Ink Foundry

Publication Date: October 4, 2024

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Andrew Barrett delivers a knockout debut in the DS Regan Carter series with "A Random Kill," a gripping police procedural that introduces a compelling new protagonist. DS Regan Carter, a fiery and rebellious red-headed detective, finds herself thrust into the Major Crime Unit, facing her greatest fear: death.

The plot ignites with seemingly random events - a colleague's death and a brutal murder-kidnapping - that quickly escalate into a high-stakes battle with organized crime. Barrett's masterful pacing builds tension throughout, leading to a climax that leaves readers breathless and eager for more.

Set in the same universe as Barrett's Eddie Collins series, "A Random Kill" benefits from cameo appearances that add depth and humor. The contrast between Eddie's sarcasm and Regan's impulsive energy creates a dynamic that enriches the narrative.

Barrett's skill in character development shines, particularly in his nuanced portrayal of Regan's complexities and her struggle to integrate into a new team. The result is a protagonist who is both flawed and irresistibly engaging.

For fans of police procedurals featuring strong female leads, "A Random Kill" is an absolute must-read. It sets a rock-solid foundation for what promises to be an outstanding series in the crime thriller genre. Barrett has crafted a tale that grabs hold from the first page and doesn't let go until the final, satisfying twist.

A big thank you to the author for providing an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.