The Secret by Andrew Child

Well, another story about a hero who puts himself in danger to save America. Jack Reacher is smart, strong, proficient in hand-to-hand combat and also has strong deduction skills and is known as an exceptional investigator. It began with secret government research that happened in India in 1969 that involved a program to make antidotes against chemical and biological weapons. The incident had caused a thousand death toll of innocent people. Of course, the American government could be embarrassed if the revelations were out.

Yet there are numbers of retired scientists who had worked in 1969 had been murdered. To stop the chaos, Reacher digs up another evidence of brewing up the sabotage. It is a standard cliche in the world of one's action-hero figure but a fun read. The Secret is the twenty-eighth book in the Jack Reacher series btw.

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