Book Review - House of Shadows (House of Shadows, #1) by Darcy Coates

 

Sophie has grown up in a privileged world. However, that all changes when a disaster bankrupts her family. As Sophie tries to come terms with news, an unexpected solution appears. A wealthy stranger, Mr. Argenton, asks for her hand in marriage. Sophie knows if she marries Mr. Argenton it will save her family's fortune and from scandal. Sophie is torn because she knows she will have to leave her family and live in Northwood, a vast and dark mansion that is hours away from civilization.

She struggles with her new life as the mistress of the cold and desolate mansion. Her new relatives are distant and cold, while Mr. Argenton is keeping secrets. Sophie feels that there is something wrong with the house and it feels unnatural.

She hears a piano play during the middle of the night but, no one in the house plays. The house drips blood from the ceiling and she feels a dark and cold presence. Sophie begins to learn that the house is haunted and the house doesn't like intruders.

Sophie feels trapped at Northwood and she is desperate to escape. She wants to leave but, she is unable to leave Mr. Argenton behind. She finds herself drawn to him and suspects he feels the same way about her. However, she knows that the secrets that Mr. Argenton keep might cost her life.

I have quite a few of the author's novels and I have enjoyed them. This book is part of a series and it was an interesting read. However, I had a hard time liking Sophie. I felt like the character was weak and pathetic and she turns hysterical over everything. When Sophie finally grew a backbone, it was unrealistic and out of character for her. I thought it was unrealistic how quickly Sophie fell in love with Mr. Argenton when they mostly kept their distance and she knew he was keeping secrets.  I didn't understand why Sophie kept the odd behaviors of her husband's family a secret when he was nothing but understanding towards her.

Book Review - The Escape Room by Megan Goldin

Photo Credit - Amazon

The world of finance can be lucrative and cutthroat, especially when you are on top of your game.  Vincent, Jules, Sylvie, and Sam are successful in their field and have garnered a few enemies while making their way to the top. With their successful lifestyle, they have many options afforded to them because of their status and success.

The team is invited to participate in an escape the room style team building activity. With budget cuts and layoff looming around them,  they are excited to prove themselves. However, when the lights go off, the doors refuse to open, and with temperatures rising, it becomes clear that this is no ordinary game. 

With rising tempers and personalities clash, they realize they have to put their differences aside if they want to survive. As the game begins, the team realizes their darkest secrets will be revealed. Are they willing to pay the price for their horrendous actions? What are they willing to do to escape their prison?

The author beautifully illustrated how greed can corrupt human nature. I was astonished at the things the characters did to get what they wanted. I found the ending satisfying but, it did leave a few questions unanswered.  The story kept readings guessing who could have planned such an elaborate scheme to get their revenge. The novel was an engrossing read and I can't wait to read more by the author.

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Book Review - I Draw on Cats by A.R. Coffelt

Photo Credit - Amazon

Ask anyone who has even been near a cat and they can tell you they are mysterious, independent, and confusing creatures. In this 48 detachable page activity book is filled with pictures of  full colored photos of cats where you can connect the dots to discover a fun doodle. The pages has a slight gloss and using a marker would probably the better option. Fun book but I feel its a bit expensive for what it is -- but I can see how this can be a fun conversation starter on a coffee table.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy in exchange for my honest opinion**