Audiobook Review: Don't Look Close by Jaima Fixsen

 

Don't Look Close by Jaima Fixsen

Publication Date: August 18th 2026 by Recorded Books

Pages: 352

Audio Book Length: 11hrs 26min

Narrator: Libby McKnight

Source: Publisher

Rating: ★★★★

Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Libro.fm | Audible | Goodreads

My Thoughts:

Peter Simmons is finally being released from hospital after contracting polio and enduring a long rehabilitation. Unsure of what the future holds, he's looking forward to a fresh start in the quaint mining town where his sister Edie lives and works as a nurse. However, instead of picking him up, Edie calls to say she’s been taken in for questioning after her ex-husband was found murdered.

 

Peter’s a likeable kind of underdog hero. Dealing with mobility issues and adjusting to a new life, he finds himself trying to solve a murder and clear his sister's name. As a newcomer to town, he has to tread carefully while questioning Edie's friends and workmates. The police seem convinced they already have their culprit. Peter's photography skills prove surprisingly useful, helping both with the investigation and providing alibis as the body count continues to rise.

 

I liked both Peter and Edie, although I did think some of their decisions were a little haphazard at times. Edie is a strong character, especially for the era, having the courage to leave an emotionally abusive husband. Her nursing background also comes in handy throughout the story. Peter feels somewhat adrift at the beginning, but the situation he's thrown into gives him a renewed sense of purpose and something to work toward.

 

I really enjoyed Don't Look Close, a murder mystery set in the 1950s. It has the feel of a classic whodunit, with no shortage of suspects that kept me guessing. While this case is solved, the ending makes me wonder if there are more mysteries ahead for Peter.

 

I listened to an audio version and thought Libby McKnight did a good job bringing the characters to life. 

4 Stars

Book Description:

From USA Today bestselling author Jaima Fixsen comes a gripping crime novel perfect for fans of William Kent Kruger, following one man who would do anything for his sister, even if it means catching a serial killer …

If you look closely, you just may catch a killer.

When Peter Simmons calls his sister Edie from the polio rehabilitation ward, he expects to hear that she's on her way to get him. Instead, he learns her ex-husband has been murdered—and whispers around town have turned her into a prime suspect.

Determined to set things right, Peter checks himself out of the hospital and heads to Clairbeck, the rugged mining community Edie calls home. He can't walk or drive unassisted, but armed with his camera and a stubborn streak, he's intent on proving her innocence.

Clairbeck, however, is far from welcoming. Old grudges between miners and the establishment simmer, and even Edie's clinic isn't the safe haven it appears to be. As Peter observes—and then investigates—he starts to wonder … Is someone watching, waiting, and eliminating anyone who steps out of line?

In a town shrouded in secrets, Peter's eye for truth might be the only thing that stops a killer, unless he draws the killer's eye first …

New Release: Puffin in Bloom's Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

 Puffin in Bloom has just released a stunning new edition of Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen on August 4th, 2026 and it is so beautiful! A must for any Jane Austen fan!

I'm in love with Rifle Paper & Co.'s Anna Bond beautiful illustrations, sprayed edges and colorful edges for this special edition! Thank you to Penguin Random House for the gifted copy! (see photos below) Here's a bit about the new release:

Puffin in Bloom has just released a stunning new edition of Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen and it is so beautiful! Another one to add to my collection!

 

I'm in love with Rifle Paper & Co.'s Anna Bond beautiful illustrations, sprayed edges and colorful edges for this special edition! Thank you to Penguin Random House for the gifted copy! (See photos) Here's a bit about the new release:

 

Puffin in Bloom’s bestselling collection of Jane Austen classics continues with a gorgeous new edition of Sense and Sensibility (on sale August 4 ,2026). The deluxe hardcover arrives ahead of the highly anticipated film adaptation, out later this year and starring Daisy Edgar-Jones. This elevated copy transforms one of Austen’s beloved novels into a keepsake readers will truly treasure, with its gold foil detailing, colorful sprayed edges, full-color endpapers, and ribbon bookmark.

 

Rifle Paper Co. co-founder and artist Anna Bond has reimagined the cover with her signature flroals, offering a bright, modern take on the classic novel that feels as romantic as the story itself. At the center of Sense and Sensibility are sisters Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, whose very different approaches to love couldn’t be more at odds. Marianne falls fast and feels everything deeply. Elinor quietly carries her own heartbreak, guided by restraint and a strong sense of responsibility. As they navigate love, loss, and the pressures of society, Austen brings warmth and insight to a story that still resonates today.

 

Puffin in Bloom’s Sense and Sensibility: Deluxe Edition offers the perfect entry point for new readers and a fresh, beautifully packaged edition for longtime Austen fans.

 

Jane Austen was born on December 16, 1775, at Steventon near Basingstoke, the seventh child of the rector of the parish. She lived with her family at Steventon until they moved to Bath when her father retired in 1801. After his death in 1805, she moved around with her mother; in 1809, they settled in Chawton, near Alton, Hampshire. Here she remained, except for a few visits to London, until May 1817, when she moved to Winchester to be near her doctor. There she died on July 18, 1817.

 

Anna Bond is an artist, designer, and entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of Rifle Paper Co., a beloved stationery, accessories, and home brand based in Winter Park, Florida. Founded in 2009 with her husband Nathan, Rifle Paper Co. has organically grown from a small, apartment-based business to an industry-leading brand, carried in thousands of stores worldwide. Beyond her work at Rifle Paper Co., Anna is enjoys illustration, interior design, and most of all, trying to keep up with her five young children.

 

PUFFIN IN BLOOM’S SENSE & SENSIBILITY: DELUXE EDITION

by Jane Austen; Cover Illustration by Anna Bond

Puffin Books | $19.00 | Ages 12 and up

ISBN: 9798217320547| on sale August 4, 2026

 

Penguin Random House, the world’s largest trade book publisher, is dedicated to its mission of nourishing a universal passion for reading by connecting authors and their writing with readers everywhere. The company, which employs more than 10,000 people globally, was formed on July 1, 2013, by Bertelsmann and Pearson, who own 75 percent and 25 percent, respectively. With nearly 275 imprints and brands on six continents, Penguin Random House comprises adult and children’s fiction and nonfiction print and digital English- and Spanish-language trade book publishing businesses in more than 20 countries worldwide. With over 15,000 new titles, and more than 600 million print, audio and eBooks sold annually, Penguin Random House’s publishing lists include more than 80 Nobel Prize laureates and hundreds of the world’s mostwidely read authors.

Review: The One Who Walked Away by Karen Rose

 

The One Who Walked Away (Mendocino #1) by Karen Rose

Publication Date: August 11th 2026 by Berkley

Pages: 528

Source: Publisher

Rating: ★★★★

Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Libro.fm | Audible | Goodreads

My Thoughts:

Elle Randolph traded her career as a family law attorney in Florida for life as a bounty hunter after a terrible accident ended in tragedy. She left Florida and went to work as a bounty hunter with one of her close friends. Looking for a fugitive leads her to the small, picturesque town of Mendocino, California. When the innkeeper of the hotel they’re staying at is murdered it seems there’s more to the job than they first thought.

 

Detective Ronan Clarke isn’t thrilled to have two bounty hunters muddling his murder investigation, but he gradually forms a reluctant friendship with Elle, and an attraction begins to grow between them. Unlike her partner, Elle seems to have a strong moral compass and is more willing to share important information. Still, as the body count rises, it becomes clear that Elle may know more than she’s letting on.

 

The case grew increasingly intense as the killer became more desperate. At first, I wasn’t sure what their motives were, which kept me guessing throughout the story. I found myself worried not only for Elle but for anyone who crossed paths with her, especially as several clues seemed to point toward her being the murderer.

 

I loved the setting of Mendocino, a town I’ve visited many times. It was easy to picture the charming community and its breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean along the Northern California coast.

 

I was also happy with how the romance was handled. It fit naturally into the story without overshadowing the mystery, and given the dangerous circumstances, anything more prominent wouldn’t have felt believable.

 

I really enjoyed The One Who Walked Away, the first book in Karen Rose’s new series. I’m a big fan of her romantic suspense novels and always look forward to her latest releases. I was very satisfied with how everything came together and am hoping there are many more mysteries to come in this series!

4 Stars

Book Description:

A bounty hunter must outrun her past before it catches up to her in this pulse-pounding new standalone thriller

Bounty hunter Elle Randolph takes on every case she can, in an effort to outrun herself. Three years ago, she was the only one who walked away from a car crash that killed her husband and two others. Although she was cleared of any wrongdoing, she is fueled by guilt and dedicated to solving other people’s problems. But her running is over when she’s identified as a person of interest in a murder investigation.

Detective Ronan Clarke, a single dad for fifteen years, has been laser-focused on raising his daughter and serving the people of Mendocino County, California. He’s got everything under control—until a bounty hunter enters his jurisdiction, keeping secrets and bringing murder to his quiet town. The hunter is definitely involved in his current case, but exactly how is his question. Could she be his killer? As he unravels her secrets, he becomes increasingly troubled by what he finds. While Elle is forced to reexamine every painful memory of the life she left behind, Ronan grows more and more sure of her innocence. But can he trust himself to uncover the truth amid their growing attraction?

Sunday Post #349

 

The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated reviewer book blog, and is a post to recap my bookish and non-bookish things from the last week. I'm also linking up to The Sunday Salon hosted by Deb Nance @Readerbuzz.

Happy Sunday!

We had a beautiful week of weather. It cooled down to low 80s and the nights were in the 50s! So we enjoyed some time out on the front porch in the evenings. 

I've been deadheading and fertilizing. We harvested our onions, shallots, and carrots and planted seeds: lettuce, arugula, spinach, radishes, carrots, leeks, cilantro. Probably more I'm not thinking of. Our tomatoes, zucchini, summer squash, cucumber, basil and oregano are still producing more than we can keep up with. 

We went to the Nevada County Fair on Friday with my sister and BIL. This is in our town of Grass Valley, California. Not sure why it's called Nevada County when it's in California. I'm sure I could look it up, but I'm too lazy at the moment. It was fun and in an area with a lot of pine trees so it was cool. I enjoyed seeing all the animals and livestock and the flowers! I forgot to take pictures. 

Zinnias are such a great summer producer! I keep cutting and they keep coming!

Queen Anne's lace and Corn on our walk

1000 Piece Puzzle Completed: Harbor by the Sea by Galison

Puzzle 41 of 2026

1000 Piece Puzzle Completed: Beach Day by Werkshoppe

Puzzle 42 of 2026

Read:

Slaying Monsters For the Feeble by Annette Marie-4 Stars

Druid Vices and a Vodka by Annette Marie-4.5 Stars

Hunting Fiends For the Ill-Equipped by Annette Marie-4.5 Stars

Brimstone Hollow by Archer Sullivan-4 Stars

The One Who Walked Away by Karen Rose-4 Stars

I'm finally caught up for our read-along hosted by Anne @Books of My Heart! I hope to participate in the chat this coming Sunday. Things are getting intense with the series!

Received: 

Angel Heist by Brian Andrews & Jeffery Wilson

I'll Be Watching You (Angelhart Investigations #3) by Allison Brennan

Heart of Glass (Wonderland #2) by Jennifer Hillier

Thank you to Blackstone Publishing, Libro.fm, Hanover Square Press, Harlequin Audio, and Macmillan Audio!

How was your week?

Review: Brimstone Hollow by Archer Sullivan

 

Brimstone Hollow (Annie Gore #2) by Archer Sullivan

Publication Date: August 11th 2026 by Minotaur Books & Macmillan Audio

Pages: 304

Audio Book Length: 9hrs 43min

Narrator: Emily Pike Stewart

Source: Publishers

Rating: ★★★★

Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Libro.fm | Audible | Goodreads

My Thoughts:

When snake-handling preacher Ezra King is found dead from snake bites and then buried less than twenty-four hours later, his estranged daughter Katie becomes suspicious. She hires Annie to investigate. On the surface, it looks like a tragic accident involving dangerous animals, but Annie agrees to take a closer look. Being local and familiar with small-town Appalachian culture, she’s able to ask questions and gain trust in ways an outsider never could.

 

Ezra left behind a troubled past, found religion, and used his charismatic personality to become the preacher at Mount Zion. His tent revivals featured snakes. Yikes!

 

As Annie starts digging for answers, word quickly spreads around town. What seemed like a straightforward case soon turns suspicious, especially after Annie narrowly survives an attempt on her life.

 

Brimstone Hollow is the second book in the Annie Gore series. While this could be read as a standalone, each mystery is wrapped up, I’d still recommend starting with the first book to better understand Annie’s background and how she became a PI.

 

I enjoyed watching Annie quickly gain acceptance in Mount Zion by treating the locals with genuine respect. Several residents proved helpful, and the descriptions of food at the little hole-in-the-wall diner Annie discovered had my mouth watering. The story had plenty of twists, action, and layers. I appreciated Annie’s determination to get to the truth. I’m already looking forward to her next case!

 

I alternated between the audiobook and eBook and recommend either format. Emily Pike Stewart, who also narrated the previous installment, did another wonderful job. Her subtle Southern accent suited the story perfectly, and I enjoyed that she sang portions of the hymns featured in the book. Her performance definitely enhanced my enjoyment.

4 Stars

Book Description:

Following her powerful debut in The Witch’s Orchard, private investigator Annie Gore returns in Brimstone Hollow, bringing readers back to the mountains that author Archer Sullivan, a ninth generation Appalachian, knows so well.

There isn’t much that happens in the Appalachian Mountains that Private Investigator Annie Gore hasn’t seen. Before she joined the Air Force, she was born and raised in those rolling hills, and lately Annie's cases have called her away from her Louisville office and closer to the small towns of her youth than she ever anticipated. But when her newest client asks if she’s ever been to a snake-handling church, Annie knows she’s about to enter unknown territory.

Katie May has been estranged from her father―one of Appalachia’s last infamous snake handling preachers―for twenty years. But when Katie finds out he’s been fatally bitten, and a funeral was held within twenty-four hours, she questions whether someone deliberately rushed the process. Despite Annie’s doubts, she takes the case. After all, when she looks at Katie, she sees a version of herself: a girl who needs to understand her father in order to understand herself.

As she navigates the hidden hollers and dangerous secrets of this insular Eastern Kentucky town, Annie works fast, hoping to find the truth in record time for her client―and before too many memories from her own childhood surface. But it soon becomes apparent that someone wants Annie’s investigation to stop―by any means necessary.

Review: A Trade of Blood by Robert Jackson Bennett

 

A Trade of Blood (Ana and Din #3) by Robert Jackson Bennett

Publication Date: August 4th 2026 by Del Rey

Pages: 400

Source: Publisher 

Rating: ★★★★★

Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Libro.fm | Audible | Goodreads

My Thoughts:

Ana and Din are called into a murder investigation in hope of preventing a war between two gentry families. The daughter of one gentryclan, the Buravs has been brutally murdered and the suspect is from the other prominent clan, the Armentas. The evidence against Castus Armenta is strong and the custodi want to hang him, however there’s a lot suspect with the case.

 

As usual, Ana mostly sends Din out to gather information and then he reports back to her. His alterations making it so he can recall and report all details exactly. Ana gets out more with this case, though. There’s a lot of action and murders as they investigate, complicating things further. 

 

I enjoyed getting to know more of Din and Ana’s histories. Din has a surprise from his past show up and I hope this person will be part of the series in the future. 

I want to be a vegetarian after reading this story!

 

A Trade of Blood is the third book in the Ana and Din mysteries, and I recommend reading the series in order for background character information and relationships.

 

The series is original and imaginative! The mystery is set in a rich, fantastical world, with Ana and Din in a Sherlock Holmes/Watson or Hercule/Hastings sort of relationship. Ana is brilliant, with eccentricities that are hilarious and sometimes repulsive and she connects things by the thinnest of threads. Din is also a sharp thinker, (more so that Watson or Hastings) and the two of them are a formidable pair! Villains beware!

 

This installment was excellent; one I didn’t want to put down! And now I’m eager for the next one! 

5 Stars

Book Description:

Brilliant detective Ana Dolabra must prove a man's innocence to stop a civil war in the third book of the series that began with The Tainted Cup, named an Edgar, Hugo, and World Fantasy Award Finalist and one of the best books of the year (New York Times Book Review, NPR, Elle)—from the bestselling author of The Founders Trilogy.

In the canton of Sapirdad, two of the Empire’s most powerful families are moments away from going to war with each other, their hundreds of retainers gathered with swords drawn. If blood is spilt, the whole of the empire may be plunged into starvation and chaos.

To de-escalate matters, someone must do the impossible: prove that one family’s eldest son is innocent of a gruesome and unforgivable murder, despite the incontrovertible evidence against him.

It is with this undertaking that the great detective Ana Dolabra is tasked, her assistant Din at her side—and the two find themselves racing with great speed and little dignity to the scene.

As ever, the impossible proves little obstacle for the deadly combination of Ana’s intellect and Din’s keen eye, and mere hours after riding into the dusty town, Ana glimpses the greater pattern behind the crime. A deeper, subtler web of death is being woven in plain sight, by a mastermind with an ancient magical technology at his disposal.

But even Ana's uncanny insight is of little use when each new suspect she uncovers ends up dead--with each new killing calculated to bring tensions between the two rival clans past the boiling point. And as Din pursues their adversary through the canton's wild ranges, sprawling ranches, and reeking slaughterhouses, he finds his loyalties divided in unexpected ways.

Audiobook Review: The Missing Couple by Debra Webb

 

The Missing Couple by Debra Webb

Publication Date: July 28th 2026 by Harlequin Audio

Pages: 220

Audio Book Length: 6hrs 9min

Narrator: Megan Tusing

Source: Publisher

Rating: ★★★★

Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Libro.fm | Audible | Goodreads

My Thoughts:

Charly discovers that a newlywed couple hasn’t checked out of one of her cabins in her rustic retreat in the Alabama woods. It’s odd because they’ve left everything, even their cell phones.

 

Billie Jager, an investigator for the Colby Agency and the brother of Briana, the missing woman, comes immediately when Charly reveals the details of their disappearance. Charly and Billie work together as Charly has connections with her small town and Billie has the expertise to narrow down the suspect list. There’s a spark of attraction between them, but that goes on the back burner given the urgency of the situation.

 

The motive behind the abduction of Briana and Martin quickly becomes apparent and it seems the crime connects with past disappearances and there’s a few in town that keep popping up as they look into the circumstances of the missing persons. There was no shortage of suspects.

 

I listened to this audio straight through. I was on the edge worried for the missing couple and hoping they’d be found unharmed. I liked how well Charly and Billie worked together and the methodical way they searched for the truth. The ending was an exciting one filled with reveals and danger!

 

I listened to the audio version and I thought Megan Tusing did a wonderful job bringing these characters to life. She performed both male and female characters seamlessly with appropriate emotions enhancing my enjoyment of this exciting mystery!

4 Stars

Book Description:

In a small town...they uncover shocking secrets.


Charly Nix could lose everything when her rustic Alabama retreat is rocked by a missing persons scandal. When Colby agent Billie Jagger arrives to help Charly search for the newlywed couple who have disappeared, the stakes intensify when he reveals that it’s his beloved sister who’s missing. And he’ll stop at nothing to find her. But as he and Charly investigate, their solo MOs develop into a partnership with feelings neither expected. Most alarming, the couple’s disappearance may be related to decades of other unsolved crimes in the quiet small town. Can they rescue Briana and Martin — before they’re gone for good?