What We’re Reading at the HOH : Still Missing

I just finished the book Still Missing by Chevy Stevens and just had to share with someone. Since it’s like ten o’clock at night, I’ll share with you, my invisible friends.

Have you read anything by Chevy Stevens? Still Missing is apparently her debut novel, and I was quite impressed with it – impressed enough to open up a blog I haven’t written on in months.

It’s a powerful story. It’s actually a horrible story of things that go so very wrong. That’s what makes it so powerful. It’s disturbing while at the same time enticing. I couldn’t put it down tonight.

Without giving too much away (because it really needs to unfold as the author intended), the story is from a woman’s point of view as she is talking to her shrink. Why is she visiting a shrink? Because she was abducted and held by a very evil man for over a year.

We hear the story as she is able to tell it. And, because it’s from her point of view, there are always details that are just skimming the edges that you want to see, but can’t. She can’t acknowledge them yet, so you don’t get to see them either. The author’s insight into the psyche of a broken woman is powerful and engaging.

Now, I will say there is quite a bit of cussing in this book. But, if you had been through what Annie had been through, I would say curbing your tongue would not be a priority. And, what happens to her is not pleasant, so if you’re sensitive to that, I wouldn’t read it. However, if you watch as much crime drama as I do, then Still Missing is right up your alley.

If you’ve read it, I’d love to hear what you think! I just put her other novels on my library wish list. I can’t wait to get the next one.

There are affiliate links in this post, but nobody asked me to read this book, and all opinions are my own.

Book Review: The Tempus

So, my friend, Holly, wrote a book, The Tempus. I didn’t know she was writing a book. (Obviously, we’re not BFF’s or anything.) But, when I saw on her Facebook page that she had written a book, of course I wanted to support her. I purchased it immediately. And, it went from the Amazon box to my shelf.

I mean, let’s get real. I read for a living. So, when I read at home, it needs to be something that I know is going to be good, something that will take me somewhere, something that will help me escape.

The book sat on my shelf just waiting to be read. Then, I started to hear rumblings from others who had read it. “It’s really good. I can’t believe it’s her first novel.” was what I was told at every turn. Hmmmm… I thought. Maybe I should crack it open.

When Mags wanted to cuddle and read one night, I grabbed it and started reading. I got to chapter three, and put it down…quickly. Not because it wasn’t good. It was too good. I’d gotten only three chapters in (they’re not long), and my friend, Holly, had sucked me completely in…completely in. I knew if I went any farther I wasn’t putting it down that night, and I had work that needed to be done. So, it sat a few days more.

Then, I had several hours to spare (Well, not really spare. I carved them out for me.), and I let myself indulge in Holly’s book. And, it was an indulgence. I enjoyed every minute of it. EVERY MINUTE.

The character development was fabulous. I didn’t like them all, but I knew them all. The plot kept moving at a good pace. And, while it’s Young Adult Fiction, there wasn’t too much mushy stuff. Yes, there are guys and girls and they like each other, but there isn’t anything that would make me feel uncomfortable to let Mags read it. Oh, and there are bad guys and good guys, and good guys you think are bad guys, and bad guys you think are good guys, and all kinds of awesomeness at the end.

So, if you’re looking for a book to add to the spring and summer reading list, I’d consider this one. I’m pretty sure you won’t be disappointed.

And, no, Mags hasn’t read it yet. I haven’t let her. I know her too well. She’s going to want the sequel immediately. And, it’s not out yet. I’m hoping for an early copy… might have to become better friends with Holly.

You know you want to go get it right now. You know you do.

Disclosure: Holly didn’t ask me to write about her book. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it. Yes, the links are affiliate links.