What happens when a confession reopens a nineteen-year-old murder case? Let me introduce you to a startling upcoming book release by Lori Duffy Foster: Spring Melt.

Spring Melt is set in the Adirondacks in the early 1920s and features Ella Devine, a quiet woman faced with a resurfacing reality she thought was buried nineteen years ago: the murder of Henry Roth, the only son of wealthy owners of the Roth Lumber Camp. Three loggers are charged with killing Roth after a confession reopens the previously closed case. Ella finds herself at a crossroads: either face head-on the traumatic event of her childhood or crawl back into the painful safety of her present life.

The narrative dives into the trial of the three lumberjacks, examining their motives, actions, and intent at the time of the murder, as well as their present reality and thoughts about what happened years ago. Spring Melt exposes the state of the jury system: its strengths, its ties to the wealthy of the Adirondack Mountains, and the corruption that flows from those connections.

Foster's background as a crime reporter shapes how Spring Melt is written. She shows both the past and present world of a rape survivor, exploring society's view of rape, the perpetrator, and the victim. Foster uses the Adirondack setting to depict the stark contrast between the elite who summer in the mountains and the working class that serves them.

Spring Melt is a tough read about a painful event that happened to a nine-year-old and followed her into adulthood. Though it's difficult material, readers can still enjoy the drama of the courtroom, the thrill of an unsolved murder case, and even find a rekindled trust in the jury system. Lori Duffy Foster crafted a beautiful but intense journey with Spring Melt. I received an advance review copy of this book via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.

 Cara Devlin is an author who doesn’t just hand you a story to read she takes you right into every bit of it. From the pangs of isolation and shame to the warmth of affection and care, The Daring Times of Fern Adair takes you on a full emotional journey.

It begins with Fern’s lonely, monotonous life until an unexpected meeting with ‘Mr. Black’a man shrouded in secrets changes everything. The story was so immersive that I honestly couldn’t put it down. The way Devlin captures 1925 Chicago the tension, the atmosphere, and the dangerous world of organized crime completely blew me away. It’s incredible how she can write historical fiction that feels so alive and real, There were times I had to pause because the book made me so emotional

Fern goes through so many stages of emotion, and you feel each one with her. This book is definitely one of the best historical fiction reads I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy this year. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

 

 I’m Back with Fresh ARC Reviews!

Hello book and tech4care friends
It’s been a little while since my last blog post, but I’m excited to be back with not just one but two ARC reviews! Both books are the first in their series, and each one pulled me in for very different reasons. Let’s dive in!

The Earl and the Enchantress by Paullett Golden

Book 1 of the Enchantress Series

From Lizabeth and Sebastian’s unforgettable “first date” to the final chapter, this book was a total page-turner. Their romance is woven with pain, resilience, tender moments, and, most importantly, love.

What I loved most was how Paullett Golden gives depth to every character not just the leads. It builds anticipation for the rest of the Enchantress series, making me eager to see who shines next.

Favorite Thought: Sebastian’s struggle to express his emotions vs. Lizabeth’s selfless drive to help others will love or the past win?

 My Rating: 5/5 A moving and beautifully immersive start to a historical romance series.

 

Shadow at the Morgue by Cara Devlin

Book 1 of the Spencer & Reid Mysteries

From the very first chapter, I was hooked. Leonora Spencer is such a fascinating character stubborn, courageous, and determined despite her past. She really stood out to me as a strong female lead.

Detective Inspector Reid added balance with his own mysterious presence. Together, they created a suspenseful dynamic that kept me guessing.

 Favorite Thought: The book kept me wondering: what secrets are Reid still hiding, and how will that affect Spencer as the series continues?

My Rating: 5/5Suspenseful, character-driven, and a strong start to the Spencer & Reid mysteries.

 

 Let’s Chat!

Do you enjoy historical romance or mystery more?

Which of these two books would you pick up first?

Have you read anything recently that totally hooked you?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

And don’t forget you can also find me sharing reviews on Goodreads and BookSirens.

Until next time, happy reading!!!!

 

 The Market of the Never-Setting Sun by E.F. Nordmed

Hello again, wonderful readers!

It’s been quite a journey returning to the blogging world  and my third ARC from BookSirens has taken me far beyond the familiar. This time, I stepped into a sci-fi world that’s ambitious, strange, and full of imagination. The Market of the Never-Setting Sun by E.F. Nordmed promised an interstellar adventure… and while I appreciated the creativity, I found myself longing for something more grounded.

 

My Honest Review of The Market of the Never-Setting Sun

Reading science fiction has always excited me  the strange worlds, the alien cultures, the bold “what ifs.” E.F. Nordmed clearly has a powerful imagination, and the book sets up a unique plot involving the main character’s relationship with both a mysterious corporation and a dwarf planet. The suspense was there, and the world-building was very detailed.

However, as the story progressed, I found myself confused more often than curious. The writing style felt very complex, and it often seemed like I was reading an academic thesis rather than a story meant to pull me in emotionally. The characters felt distant, and I struggled to feel a connection with any of them.

That made it hard to stay invested in what was happening  even though I really wanted to be. There was so much potential in the world and plot, but I think the emotional thread was missing for me.

 

What Could Be Better

If I could suggest anything to the author, it would be this: Try to build stronger emotional ties between the characters and the reader. Relatable feelings, clear motivations, or even world details that remind readers of things from their own lives could help make the story more immersive.

I believe E.F. Nordmed has a brilliant sci-fi vision  and with just a little more emotional connection, it could become something truly unforgettable.

 

 

On My Final Thoughts

The Market of the Never-Setting Sun is bold, intellectual science fiction best suited for readers who enjoy untangling complex worlds and don’t mind a little confusion along the way. While it wasn’t a personal favorite for me, I admire the ambition behind it and hope the author continues refining their storytelling voice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Finding My Way Through Historical Romance: Not Quite a Countess by Bliss Bennet

Hi again, dear readers

It feels so good to be back in the rhythm of reading and sharing and this time, I dove into a Georgian-era historical romance that had me both curious and conflicted. As my second RC from BookSirens, Not Quite a Countess by Bliss Bennet introduced me to the world of the Audacious Ladies of Audley series, and while the setting intrigued me, the journey wasn’t without its bumps. Let’s talk about it!

 

Not Quite a Countess  My Honest Review

From the very first chapter, the character Arabella Audley intrigued me. Who is she really? What are her intentions? Her entrance sets the tone for mystery and quiet manipulation, making me eager to understand her world. Then came Captain Rye, whose appearance brought a lively edge to the story  the kind that gives historical romance its signature tension.

There were sparks between the characters, and their back-and-forth gave me glimmers of that classic emotional tug-of-war that fans of historical romance will recognize. However, despite those strong moments, I personally struggled to stay fully connected to the story. It felt like I had missed something, and I suspect that’s because I hadn’t read the previous books in the series.

While Bliss Bennet does an excellent job staying true to historical accuracy, and her writing is thoughtful and carefully paced, this particular book didn’t quite grip me as I’d hoped. The plot moved slowly for me, and the emotional intensity I usually look for in romance felt a bit muted.

Still, I admire the author’s commitment to crafting complex characters and her vivid depiction of the Georgian period. There’s a clear intelligence behind the writing, and fans of layered, character-driven romance might find exactly what they’re looking for here  especially if they’re already familiar with the series.

Final Thoughts

Not Quite a Countess is a thoughtful, slower-paced historical romance with a strong focus on character and period details. While it wasn’t a perfect fit for me, I recognize the skill in Bliss Bennet’s storytelling and think this could be a rewarding read for fans of smart, subtle romantic fiction  especially those already invested in the Audacious Ladies of Audley world. All my opinions are mine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 A Powerful Return to Blogging  And a Powerful Story: Madam Rebelle by Amber Leigh

Hello techblog  lovers!
It’s been a little while since I’ve posted here (life happens, right?), but I’m so glad to be back  and I’m returning with something truly special. I recently joined the world of ARC reviewing through BookSirens, and my very first read was nothing short of incredible. Today, I want to share my heartfelt thoughts on a book that deeply moved me: Madam Rebelle by Amber Leigh  a sweeping historical novel set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied France.

 

 Madam Rebelle by Amber Leigh My Review

This story follows two unforgettable characters  Edmée and Christian  during a time of brutal war, fear, and resistance. Set during the French invasion by the Nazis, the novel powerfully explores struggles, grief, loss, and the aching cost of war, while also shining with themes of courage, trust, love, and resilience.

Amber Leigh takes readers on a rich emotional journey that blends historical depth with raw human feeling. I was completely drawn into the emotional weight of the story  there were moments filled with hope, fear, betrayal, and despair. Leigh’s dedication to historical accuracy shines through, but it’s her emotional storytelling that makes this novel stand out.

One of the most touching aspects for me was the unbreakable bond between Edmée and Christian, symbolized through their code  “The sun rises in the East.” It wasn’t just about romance; it was about loyalty, survival, and the kind of love that endures even in the darkest times. And the portrayal of chosen family   how love and support can come from outside bloodlines  was another beautiful layer in the narrative.

 Being my first ARC review I got for free from booksirens, I feel truly lucky that Madam Rebelle was my introduction to this world.

That said, I personally felt the ending could’ve offered a bit more detail or closure. After such an emotional build-up, I wished for a slightly more fleshed-out final chapter   just to linger in that world a bit longer.

On my final thoughts

Madam Rebelle is a thrilling, emotionally rich historical fiction that I won’t forget anytime soon. It’s a story that lingers   and if you love books that touch the heart while honoring the past, this one deserves a spot on your shelf.I got the book for free from booksirens and my  thought are all voluntary

 

 

Top 4 Free Symptom Checker Apps You Can Trust in 2025

You are not sure whether to go to the clinic? These free symptom checker apps use AI and expert knowledge to help you decide what to do next.

1. Ada: Check Your Health

Just answer a few questions and get a smart health report.

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2. WebMD Symptom Checker

Enter your symptoms and see possible causes, drug info, and more.

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3. Healthily: Self-Care App

Trusted by Nurses, doctors and NHS UK. Combines symptom checking with advice.
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4. Mayo Clinic App

From one of the best hospitals globally, full of reliable health tips.
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 Note: These apps are for guidance. If symptoms are serious, you should  see a healthcare provider, these are to work smarter not harder

 Do you have a favorite symptom checker we missed? Drop it in the comments ,your suggestion might help someone else. Don’t forget to follow the blog so you’ll never miss the next helpful post!