A Good Girl's Guide To Murder by Holly Jackson

This book is one of my favourite reads of the year. It follows the story of Pippa Fitz-Amobi, a young girl researching a school project on a missing girl, Andie Bell, who disappeared five years ago. Her blood was found in the trunk of her deserted vehicle, leading to enough evidence to incriminate her boyfriend, Sal Singh. However, Sal was discovered dead from suicide.

Despite Andie's body never being found, Pippa remains hopeful that her investigation will reveal evidence proving Sal's innocence. She is convinced that the police made a mistake by prematurely closing the case. Her interviews with family and close friends revealed widespread speculation about the truth behind Andie Bell.

I was drawn to the concept of the protagonist being an amateur sleuth who keeps stumbling upon new information related to the two major tragedies that shaped her life.

The Winner by Teddy Wayne

Conor O'Toole, facing challenges in seeking an actual job and balancing bar exam studies, seized the chance to teach tennis in a gated community during the pandemic. A friend, John Price generously offered the use of his guesthouse in exchange for a tennis lesson. 

Little did he know, that teaching Catherine Remsen would lead to a flirtatious encounter. He also became acquainted with Emily, Catherine's daughter. Entangling himself with both a mother and her daughter seemed like a complicated situation from tennis to infidelity.

To be honest, I found myself getting a bit bored halfway through the book due to slow-paced but things became more complex and engaging as it progressed. It may not be a perfect murder mystery, but it's still quite thrilling. Without giving away any spoilers, I can guarantee that the culprit will be apprehended in time.

Thanks to @times.reads and @putrifariza for this uncorrected proof copy. My opinions are my own 💙 

*Available at all major bookstores in Singapore and Malaysia and their online stores 

The Mother Act by Heidi Reimer

Around two decades ago, Sadie Jones decided to leave her husband and daughter, Judith, to focus on her career as an actress and a provocative feminist. She insists her experience is valid and important to shape the direction of life. 

After several years, she tried to reconcile with her estranged daughter. She sees her daughter's organized life as mundane and has never felt like she belonged in social circles. The story unfolds through the alternating viewpoints of Sadie and Judith, delving into the complexities of their mother-daughter relationships as they revisit the past, ultimately leaving Judith deeply affected. At the same time, both characters are unlikeable but understandable. You know what I mean? Hehe. They were nothing alike temperamentally but difficult the same. The ending appeals to me. It's clear that both parenthood and relationships require a considerable amount of time, sacrifice, and understanding. 4 ⭐️ 

Thanks to @times.reads and @putrifariza for the review copy. My opinions are my own 💙 

*Available at all major bookstores in Singapore and Malaysia and their online stores