Nicole About Town

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The Quiet Game: A Novel by Greg Iles | REVIEW

This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

The Quiet Game: A NovelThe Quiet Game: A Novel by Greg Iles
Series: Penn Cage #1
Publication Date: August 30, 1999
Publisher: Dutton / Penguin Random House
Pages: 433
Goodreads
Source: Personal Copy
Genre: Fiction / Thrillers / Suspense
Rating: ★★★★
Synopsis:

When recently widowed Penn Cage leaves Houston with his young daughter and returns to his hometown seeking peace, he finds something very different. Natchez, Mississippi, is the jewel of the antebellum South, a city of old secrets and older money. Upon learning that his father is being blackmailed, Penn finds himself reopening the most highly charged murder case in the town's history, searching for the evidence that could bring down the judge who nearly destroyed his father years ago.

As the town closes ranks against him, Penn is joined by Caitlin Masters, a young newspaper publisher, on a deadly quest to find answers to one of the darkest chapters of American history, a quest that pits them against the FBI, a band of brothers still fiercely guarding the tainted legacy of J. Edgar Hoover. But Penn's most dangerous journey must be made alone--into the abiding mystery of his own past, into the mind and heart of a woman he lost twenty years ago, and who still has the power to save or destroy him.


REVIEW

I’m not exactly sure who introduced me to the Penn Cage series by Greg Iles, but I am truly grateful to them because this series has turned out to be amazing.

The Quiet Game is the first book in the Penn Cage series. I read it after the second book, The Turning Angel, which may be why I didn’t give it five stars. Comparing it to the second book influenced my rating. If you haven’t started this series yet, I recommend reading this one first. Reading the books out of order spoils the experience.

This book is incredibly raw. Penn Cage returns to his hometown after his wife’s death and discovers that his father is being blackmailed over a mistake from decades ago. The core of the story revolves around an unsolved car bombing and murder of a member of Natchez’s black community in 1968. The murder took place during a time of intense racial tension, and as Penn delves into the case, the tension resurfaces. Many people in the town know something, but for various reasons, they are unwilling to talk.

The case does get solved in the end, but it doesn’t have the typical resolution one would expect from a civil rights-era murder case. Additionally, Penn investigates the case not as a lawyer, despite being a former prosecutor. He investigates it driven by moral and personal reasons. It’s refreshing to see a character grappling with his decisions and attempting to balance his desire to help his father with his need to protect his daughter at all costs.

Warning* Like most books that address civil rights-era issues, the language in this book is strong and accurately reflects the atmosphere of the situation.

The Night Swim: A Novel by Megan Goldin | REVIEW

This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

The Night Swim: A NovelThe Night Swim: A Novel by Megan Goldin
Series: Rachell Krall #1
Publication Date: August 4, 2020
Publisher: St. Martin's Press / Macmillan
Pages: 352
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / Thrillers / Psychological
Rating: ★★★★
Synopsis:

In The Night Swim, a new thriller from Megan Goldin, author of the “gripping and unforgettable” (Harlen Coben) The Escape Room, a true crime podcast host covering a controversial trial finds herself drawn deep into a small town’s dark past and a brutal crime that took place there years before.
Ever since her true-crime podcast became an overnight sensation and set an innocent man free, Rachel Krall has become a household name—and the last hope for people seeking justice. But she’s used to being recognized for her voice, not her face. Which makes it all the more unsettling whenshe finds a note on her car windshield, addressed to her, begging for help.

The new season of Rachel's podcast has brought her to a small town being torn apart by a devastating rape trial. A local golden boy, a swimmer destined for Olympic greatness, has been accused of raping the beloved granddaughter of the police chief. Under pressure to make Season 3 a success, Rachel throws herself into her investigation—but the mysterious letters keep coming. Someone is following her, and she won’t stop until Rachel finds out what happened to her sister twenty-five years ago. Officially, Jenny Stills tragically drowned, but the letters insist she was murdered—and when Rachel starts asking questions, nobody in town wants to answer. The past and present start to collide as Rachel uncovers startling connections between the two cases—and a revelation that will change the course of the trial and the lives of everyone involved.

Electrifying and propulsive, The Night Swim asks: What is the price of a reputation? Can a small town ever right the wrongs of its past? And what really happened to Jenny?


REVIEW

“The Night Swim: A Novel” by Megan Goldin is not the first book I’ve read by her. In fact, I’ve had the pleasure of previously enjoying not just one, but two of her other captivating novels. One of them was “Stay Awake: A Novel,” which had an intriguing plot that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The other was “The Escape Room: A Novel,” a book that I found to be thoroughly enjoyable and engaging in every way. However, it is safe to say that “The Night Swim” surpasses even her previous works in terms of its impact and brilliance.

This thought-provoking, impactful, insightful, and gripping novel tells not just one, but two seemingly unrelated stories set in the same location. As the stories unfold, their interconnectedness and eerie similarities gradually become apparent, leaving the reader in awe of the author’s masterful storytelling. I found myself completely drawn into the narrative, eagerly agreeing with the main character, Rachel, and her astute observations, profound reflections, and thought-provoking explanations. Rachel is undeniably relatable, and although I cannot definitively say whether I found her likable or unlikable, her thoughts and motivations resonate deeply with the reader.

“The Night Swim: A Novel” fearlessly delves into heavy and important topics such as sexual assault, rape, and murder. It handles these sensitive subjects with utmost care and authenticity, portraying the divisive nature of these issues in a realistic and unflinching manner. The book’s ability to make the reader feel like they are reading a real-life news story rather than a work of fiction is truly remarkable. The rawness and authenticity with which these topics are addressed is both striking and commendable.

One of the standout aspects of this book is its portrayal of a true crime podcaster as the main character. This unique perspective adds an extra layer of intrigue and fascination to the story. In fact, as I immersed myself in the world of the book, I found myself wishing that the podcast and its host were real because I would definitely be an avid listener. Additionally, I must mention that the narration in the audiobook version of “The Night Swim” is nothing short of excellent, further enhancing the overall reading experience.

“The Night Swim: A Novel” is a masterpiece that should not be missed. With its captivating storytelling, profound exploration of important themes, and memorable characters, it is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

Harlem Shuffle: A Novel by Colson Whitehead | REVIEW

This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

Harlem Shuffle: A NovelHarlem Shuffle: A Novel by Colson Whitehead
Series: Ray Carney #1
Publication Date: September 14, 2021
Publisher: Doubleday / Penguin Random House
Pages: 336
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / Literary
Rating: ★★★★
Synopsis:

"Ray Carney was only slightly bent when it came to being crooked..." To his customers and neighbors on 125th street, Carney is an upstanding salesman of reasonably priced furniture, making a decent life for himself and his family. He and his wife Elizabeth are expecting their second child, and if her parents on Striver's Row don't approve of him or their cramped apartment across from the subway tracks, it's still home.

Few people know he descends from a line of uptown hoods and crooks, and that his façade of normalcy has more than a few cracks in it. Cracks that are getting bigger all the time.

Cash is tight, especially with all those installment-plan sofas, so if his cousin Freddie occasionally drops off the odd ring or necklace, Ray doesn't ask where it comes from. He knows a discreet jeweler downtown who doesn't ask questions, either.

Then Freddie falls in with a crew who plan to rob the Hotel Theresa—the "Waldorf of Harlem"—and volunteers Ray's services as the fence. The heist doesn't go as planned; they rarely do. Now Ray has a new clientele, one made up of shady cops, vicious local gangsters, two-bit pornographers, and other assorted Harlem lowlifes.

Thus begins the internal tussle between Ray the striver and Ray the crook. As Ray navigates this double life, he begins to see who actually pulls the strings in Harlem. Can Ray avoid getting killed, save his cousin, and grab his share of the big score, all while maintaining his reputation as the go-to source for all your quality home furniture needs?

Harlem Shuffle's ingenious story plays out in a beautifully recreated New York City of the early 1960s. It's a family saga masquerading as a crime novel, a hilarious morality play, a social novel about race and power, and ultimately a love letter to Harlem.

But mostly, it's a joy to read, another dazzling novel from the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award-winning Colson Whitehead.


REVIEW

I finally sat down to read “Harlem Shuffle: A Novel” by Colson Whitehead after having it on my shelf for months, eagerly anticipating the day when I would immerse myself in its pages. From the moment I cracked open the book, I was transported to the vibrant streets of post-war Harlem, a place brimming with life, culture, and contradiction.

As I delved deeper into the narrative, I found myself captivated by the intricate web of characters that Whitehead expertly weaved. Each character, with their unique quirks and aspirations, served as a mirror reflecting the shifting landscape of the city. Through their eyes, I witnessed the forces of change that swept through Harlem, transforming it from a haven of community and culture into a battleground of gentrification.

But it wasn’t just the story that drew me in; it was the enchanting prose that danced across the pages. Whitehead’s writing is a symphony of words, a lyrical masterpiece that effortlessly captures the essence of the era. The vivid descriptions transported me back in time, allowing me to see, hear, and feel the pulse of 1960s Harlem.

And yet, despite being set in the past, “Harlem Shuffle: A Novel” remains strikingly relevant to the present day. The themes of social change, inequality, and the struggle for identity resonate deeply, reminding us that the more things change, the more they stay the same. It is a testament to Whitehead’s skill as a storyteller that his novel transcends time, bridging the gap between then and now.

I can confidently say that “Harlem Shuffle: A Novel” is a literary masterpiece that deserves to be savoured and celebrated. It is a love letter to a bygone era, a testament to the resilience of a community, and a poignant exploration of the human condition. This book is a treasure, a timeless gem that will continue to captivate readers for generations to come.

All the Sinners Bleed: A Novel by S.A. Cosby | REVIEW

This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

All the Sinners Bleed: A NovelAll the Sinners Bleed: A Novel by S.A. Cosby
Publication Date: June 6, 2023
Publisher: Flatiron Books / Macmillan
Pages: 352
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / Thrillers / Crime
Rating: ★★★★★
Synopsis:

New York Times bestselling and LA Times Book Prize-winning author S. A. Cosby is back with a new novel about the first Black sheriff in a small Southern town , and his hunt for a killer.
After years of working as an FBI agent, Titus Crown returns home to Charon County, land of moonshine and corn bread, fistfights and honeysuckle. Seeing his hometown struggling with a bigoted police force inspires Titus to run for sheriff. He wins and becomes the first Black sheriff in the history of the county.

Then, a year to the day after his election, a young Black man is fatally shot by Titus’s deputies.

Titus pledges to follow the truth wherever it leads. But no one expected he would unearth a serial killer who has been hiding in plain sight, haunting the dirt lanes and woodland clearings of Charon.

Now Titus must pull off the impossible: stay true to his instincts, prevent outright panic, and investigate a shocking crime in a small town where everyone knows everyone yet secrets flourish—all while breaking up backroad bar fights and being forced to protect racist Confederate pride marchers.

For a Black man wearing a police uniform in the American South, that’s no easy feat. But Charon is Titus’s home and his heart, and he won’t let the darkness overtake it. Even as it threatens to consume him.


REVIEW

“All the Sinners Bleed: A Novel” by S.A. Crosby is not the first book I own by this author, but it is certainly the first one that I sat down and read from cover to cover. And let me tell you, it was an absolutely remarkable experience. From the very first line to the very last, this book had me hooked with its compelling storyline and gripping narrative. Every single event and detail that unfolded throughout the pages was not only captivating but also intricately connected to the overall story. There was a seamless cohesiveness in the way everything fit together, making each part feel essential and purposeful. It’s a rare feat in storytelling to have all the pieces come together so harmoniously, adding depth and substance to the narrative.

The story itself was gritty, engaging, and filled with intense moments that had me on the edge of my seat. It reminded me of watching an extended episode of Criminal Minds but with an even more raw and badass vibe. The main character, Titus Crowne, was flawlessly portrayed, with a realistic and pragmatic nature that made him relatable. He possessed a decent moral compass without being overly judgmental or sanctimonious, and every action he took or didn’t take had a clear and understandable reason behind it. It’s refreshing to come across a protagonist who feels so authentic and well-developed.

“All the Sinners Bleed: A Novel” by S.A. Crosby has undeniably earned its place on my shortlist for the book of the year. It’s a captivating and masterfully crafted work that deserves recognition for its exceptional storytelling and unforgettable characters. I eagerly anticipate diving into more books by this talented author and exploring the depths of their imagination.

She Started It: A Novel by Sian Gilbert | REVIEW

This book was provided by the publisher for review purposes. All opinions are my own.

She Started It: A NovelShe Started It: A Novel by Sian Gilbert
Publication Date: June 13, 2023
Publisher: William Morrow / HarperCollins
Pages: 352
Goodreads
Source: From the Publisher
Genre: Fiction / Thrillers / Suspense
Rating: ★★★★½
Synopsis:

A hot, twisty summer debut thriller about a group of young women whose Caribbean bachelorette party takes a sinister turn. It’s Lord of the Flies meets And Then There Were None...but with Instagram and too much prosecco.

The party of a lifetime is nothing like what they expected...

Annabel, Esther, Tanya, and Chloe are best friends—or were, as children. Despite drifting apart in adulthood, shared secrets have kept them bonded for better or worse, even as their childhood dreams haven’t quite turned out as they’d hoped. Then one day they receive a wholly unexpected—but not entirely unwelcome—invitation from another old friend. Poppy Greer has invited them all to her extravagant bachelorette party: a first-class plane ticket to three days of white sand, cocktails, and relaxation on a luxe private island in the Bahamas.

None of them has spoken to Poppy in years. But Poppy’s Instagram pics shows that the girl they used to consider the weakest link in their group has definitely made good—and made money. Curiosity gets the better of them. Besides, who can turn down a posh all-expenses-paid vacation on a Caribbean island?

The first-class flight and the island’s accommodations are just as opulent as expected...even if the scenic island proves more remote than they’d anticipated. Quite remote, in fact, with no cell service, and no other guests. The women quickly discover they’ve underestimated Poppy, and each other. As their darkest secrets are revealed, the tropical adventure morphs into a terrifying nightmare.

Endlessly twisty, sharply observant, and deliciously catty, She Started It is sure to shock readers until the very end.


REVIEW

Wow. To say that revenge is best-served cold is an understatement when it comes to She Started It: A Novel by Sian Gilbert. This book is far-fetched, unrealistic, and incredibly satisfying. It’s been a while since I wanted to applaud after finishing a book, especially one that tackles heavy topics like bullying and murder. But the petty part of me couldn’t help but cheer on ‘Poppy’ throughout the story.

All the women in this book are absolutely despicable. One would hope that we outgrow our obnoxious behaviour from high school, but not these women. If anything, they’ve become worse as they’ve grown older. They are rotten to the core, psychotic, and possibly sociopathic as well. They are horrible to others, horrible to each other, and horrible to themselves. I must admit that witnessing their downfall brought me joy.

There were plenty of twists throughout the story to keep even the most jaded mystery/thriller enthusiast satisfied. Only the fact that I had been awake since 4 a.m. prevented me from finishing this in one sitting. This would be a fantastic beach read this summer and should be added to everyone’s to-be-read list.

A huge thanks to Edelweiss, William Morrow, and HarperAudio for providing both the eGalley and the advanced audiobook version. The narration of the audiobook is excellent, and each narrator truly brought their characters to life.