This week I have recommendations ranging from Jinn and a Prince wandering the desert and searching for adventure to a romance writer becoming an accidental assassin for hire, and a Covid homebound millennial discovers the gentleman in the building across from her is a possible serial killer. Add in a newly discovered webtoon and there is a little bit of something for everyone. Come join me as I share all my favorite reads of the week!

If you want an homage to Middle Eastern fairytales

The Stardust Thief by Chelsea Abdullah

Inspired by stories from One Thousand and One Nights, this book weaves together the gripping tale of a legendary smuggler, a cowardly prince, and a dangerous quest across the desert to find a mythical magic lamp.

The Stardust Thief is the perfect homage to the classic Middle East fairytales while doing its own unique world-building. Every character is so layered and richly described that this world of Jinn and humans comes to life right before your eyes. A very well-done first novel of a trilogy that leaves me wanting more.

(You can use our Amazon associate link to purchase this book and support the blog! https://amzn.to/3lcAisj )

When you are craving something with Hitchcock vibes

The Man Across the Alley by Emilie Barage

Holly Harris and Luke Morris share more than a common outdoor patio. They also share sizzling chemistry and a habit of staring at the neighbors across the alley. What happens when they witness one of those neighbors acting suspiciously at the same time women start disappearing in the neighborhood?

I have a horrible confession to make. I only read the synopsis and was sold when it talked about True Crime blogs and a possible serial killer across the alley. The romance was a big surprise. A good surprise since I loved Holly and Luke’s falling in love while chasing a murderer. The Man Across the Alley was a solid use of the Rear Window trope. This happens to be one of my favorite suspense tropes and I recommend this book to fans of suspense and romance.

(You can use our Amazon associate link to purchase this book and support the blog! https://amzn.to/39qd8vz )

When you are craving a webtoon

Eleceed

Synopsis: Jiwoo is a kind-hearted young man who harnesses the lightning-quick reflexes of a cat to secretly make the world a better place – one saved little child or foster pet at a time. Kayden is a secret agent on the run, who finds himself stuck in the body of a…um…decidedly fat old fluffy cat. Together, armed with Jiwoo’s superpowers and Kayden’s uber-smarts, they’re out to fight those forces who would let evil rule this world. That is, if they can stand each other long enough to get the job done. (Webtoon Link HERE)

I just started this webtoon so there is still a lot to get through, but I am having so much fun that I felt I had to add it in. I am a huge fan of webtoons that combine kickass superpower fighting with sarcastic quirky humor. Eleceed is brilliantly giving me tons of both genres and I am 100% invested.

(You can use our Amazon associate link to purchase this book and support the blog! https://amzn.to/3LgA39V )

If you want a laugh-out-loud read…or two

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It & Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead by Elle Cosimano

If you have not checked out Elle Cosimano’s Finlay Donovan series yet, then you are missing something special. Finlay Donovan is your average overwhelmed divorced mother of two young children. Fighting for custody with her ex-husband, Finlay is suffering from writer’s block when she is accidentally mistaken for a hitman at the local Panera Bread. Hilarious hijinks ensue, and I dare you to not be in love with these characters by the end of chapter one. I just recently finished book 2 and the quality of quirkiness does not diminish as Finlay finds herself involved with the local mob. I can not recommend this series enough.

(You can use our Amazon associate link to purchase this book and support the blog!

Finlay Donovan is Killing It: https://amzn.to/39WWt33

Finlay Donovan Knocks ‘Em Dead: https://amzn.to/39tiVAR )

What books have caught your fancy lately? Leave your favorites in the comments, and be sure to come back next week to find out more great book recommendations. Also, if you want more of my book reviews, join me HERE on GoodReads or on Twitter at @AmberKmuse.

Til the next turn of the page,

Kmuse

Dramas With a Side of Kimchi