The One With All The Men // May Wrap-Up
Whilst looking back and wrapping up my May reads, I realised it was one with all the men. And in saying that, many men were dicks! Getting into the reviews…
The Seven Dials Mystery by Agatha Christie
Genre: Mystery
Tropes: Whodunnit / Amateur Sleuth
Pages: 304
Spice: None
Format: Hardback & Audio (Dual Read)
Book Synopsis:
“A healthy young man dies in his sleep, despite the ringing of seven separate alarm clocks…
Gerry Wade had proved himself to be a champion sleeper, so the other house guests decided to play a practical joke on him. Eight alarm clocks were set to go off, one after the other, starting at 6.30 a.m. But when morning arrived, one clock was missing, and the prank had backfired with tragic consequences.
For Jimmy Thesiger in particular, the words ‘Seven Dials’ were to take on a new and chilling significance…”
Spoiler-Free Review
I read The Seven Dials Mystery for Gavin’s Agatha Christie Solve-Along Book Club. While I think I probably should have read The Secret of Chimneys first because of the returning characters, it didn’t stop me from enjoying the story. This was my first time meeting Superintendent Battle, and he quickly became one of my favourite Christie characters. Even though he isn’t the central character, his calm, methodical approach makes him a real standout.
Bundle was a fantastic protagonist. Although her privileged upbringing occasionally makes her come across as a little spoiled or flippant, her determination, sharp wit, and natural detective instincts make her incredibly easy to root for. I also loved Bill, whose banter and interactions with Bundle added plenty of humour and charm throughout the novel.
The mystery itself kept me constantly second-guessing. Christie expertly balances clever red herrings with genuine clues. About two-thirds of the way through, I found myself wondering whether I was trying to solve the murders or uncover the truth behind the Seven Dials itself. While the resolution comes together quite quickly, I thoroughly enjoyed the final reveals and thought it was a satisfying conclusion. 4 Stars.
Spoiler Review
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• Agatha Christie really has a habit of wrapping everything up off the page! You get this fantastic cliffhanger, and then the next chapter is essentially someone explaining what happened. Rather than letting you experience the final deductions unfold. It’s something I’ve noticed in a few of her books now. It can be a little frustrating because I want to see those final moments play out. But despite that, I still thought this was a brilliant ending.
• Fairly early on, I had a feeling there were two people involved. My theory about *who* they were and how everything fit together was completely wrong. But I was pleased that I’d picked up on the possibility of multiple people being involved. I’m deliberately not saying who.Because even in a spoiler section I don’t want to completely ruin the whodunnit for anyone!
• Bill declaring his love for Bundle absolutely made me laugh. It was so unexpected, so chaotic, and so perfectly ‘Bill’. Their relationship was one of my favourite parts of the novel, and that moment suited both characters perfectly.
• Discovering what Seven Dials actually was, and learning who was involved, was one of my favourite reveals in the entire book. Looking back, all the clues and red herrings suddenly clicked into place. And I have to mention that Superintendent Battle being connected to Seven Dials was the perfect final touch.
The Daisy Chain Flower Shop by Laurie Gilmore
Genre: Romance
Tropes: Fake Relationship, Small Town, and He Falls First
Pages: 364
Spice: Moderate
Format: Paperback
Book Synopsis:
“The greatest love is the one you never expected to find
Daisy is fed up with being unlucky in love. And since Mayor Kelly declared her beloved flower shop cursed in one of his infamous visions, business has been slow.
Dream Harbour newcomer Elliot has been adjusting to small-town life following his own relationship turmoil. And until now he’s avoided the flower shop at all costs. If the mayor is correct, he doesn’t need any more bad luck in his life.
When he steps through the door of the Daisy Chain Flower Shop, he doesn’t expect it to be a life-changing moment. But as the petals blossom in the sunlight, might the unluckiest woman in Dream Harbour finally find that love comes when you’re least expecting it?”
Spoiler-Free Review
The Daisy Chain Flower Shop follows Daisy, a florist who believes her shop is cursed after every couple she creates wedding flowers for ends up separating. We also have Elliot, who unexpectedly becomes her fake boyfriend after rescuing her from an incredibly awkward encounter with her ex and his fiancée. I loved that both characters recognise their own insecurities and past experiences when it comes to love, making their friendship in this fake relationship feel genuine.
Daisy and Elliot have fantastic chemistry, with plenty of witty banter. Elliot has such lovable golden retriever energy that it’s impossible not to root for him. One of my favourite aspects of the story was the family history subplot. As Daisy investigates the supposed curse, she also uncovers more about her ancestors. This added an extra layer to the romance and tied beautifully into Dream Harbour’s history. As someone who enjoys genealogy, I especially appreciated this element. Combined with appearances from familiar faces and the notorious book club, this has become one of my favourite books in the Dream Harbour series. 4.5 Stars.
Spoiler Review
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• Daisy was such a wonderfully layered protagonist. Throughout the novel, you really see how much she cares. Not just about her flower shop, but about her family, the Dream Harbor community…and eventually herself. Watching her slowly let go of the idea that she was somehow “cursed” and realise that she deserved happiness was one of my favourite parts of the story. Her chemistry with Elliot was effortless from the beginning. And I loved that while he was completely head over heels for her, he still respected her boundaries and gave her the space she needed.
• Daisy’s ex is, quite simply, a dick. The opening scene with him and his fiancée ordering their wedding flowers was painful to read. And his behaviour throughout the novel only reinforced what an awful partner he had been. Elliot stepping in when Daisy impulsively introduced him as her boyfriend was the perfect start to their fake-dating relationship. I loved how naturally he committed to the role without ever making Daisy feel embarrassed.
• The family history reveal was my favourite part of the book. As Daisy uncovers the truth behind the supposed flower shop curse, she discovers that the legend had been twisted over time. Learning what really happened to her ancestor, and that the story was rooted in genuine love and heartbreaking circumstances rather than a supernatural curse, was such a satisfying twist. It tied together Daisy’s personal journey, her family’s history, and the romance beautifully. Making the ending feel both emotional and hopeful.
Murder By The Book by M. R. G. Davies
Genre: Mystery
Tropes: Book Shop Mystery, Amateur Sleuths, Whodunnit, and Small Town Community.
Pages: 384
Spice: None
Format: Kindle
Book Synopsis:
“Nothing is deadlier than angry readers… especially when you murder one of their own.
When the manager of The Quaint Bookshop is found slumped between the shelves, the four members of the shop’s reading group decide to put into action all the skills they’ve picked up from their favourite fictional detectives.
If anyone knows how to solve a killer of a crime, it’s a team of murder-mystery superfans. The police might be investigating, but the reading group are on the case…”
Spoiler-Free Review
Murder by the Book is a cosy mystery featuring one dead body, four amateur sleuths, and a book club unlike any other. Just as the tagline said. While the concept of a book club (sorry, reading group!) investigating a murder isn’t entirely new, I really enjoyed M.R.G. Davies’ take on it. Each member of the reading group brings a different background, personality, and perspective to the investigation. Making the mystery feel collaborative rather than centred on a single dominant detective. I especially enjoyed seeing everyone’s theories develop as the story unfolded. Which made it easy to play along and form my own suspicions.
The mystery itself kept me guessing, and although I had my own theory about how everything would come together… I didn’t predict the final reveal. Looking back, it felt like a classic cosy mystery ending where all the pieces click into place. This was an easy 4 Star read for me, and I’m already looking forward to seeing where Davies takes this delightful group of amateur sleuths in the next instalment.
Spoiler Review
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• I loved the reveal that Felicity had sent the mysterious packages to each member of the reading group. Whether she genuinely suspected her life was in danger or simply believed they were the right people to uncover the truth if anything happened to her, it was such a clever twist. It gave the investigation a much more personal feel and made the group feel chosen rather than just stumbling into the mystery.
• I was so glad Bella finally left her husband. He was an absolute dick he was. Constantly undermining her confidence, and it was wonderful to see her stand up for herself. Watching her grow in confidence throughout the novel was one of my favourite character arcs, and by the end she had really found her backbone.
• When Professor Stone became a suspect and his past was used against him, I genuinely felt for him. It was frustrating to see assumptions made because of his history, but I loved how he turned the situation to his advantage. By using his position as the prime suspect to gain the officers trust, he became an even more valuable part of the investigation. It was a clever twist that showed just how perceptive he really was.
And Now, Back To You by B.K. Borison
Genre: Romance
Tropes: Workplace Romance, Slow Burn, and Forced Proximity
Pages: 464
Spice: Moderate
Format: Paperback & Audio (Dual Read)
Book Synopsis:
“Jackson Clark likes life neat, predictable, and preferably viewed from the comfort of his radio booth.
Delilah Stewart prefers hers wild, spontaneous, and preferably in the eye of the storm, out in the field.
For years, the two have clashed like thunder and lightning, until they’re partnered against their will to cover the snowstorm of the century.
Eager to be taken seriously as a journalist, Delilah offers Jackson a deal. If he can help her ace this assignment, she’ll help him rediscover his long-lost fun side.”
But when other feelings start to enter the equation, can Jackson and Delilah weather the storm? Or does what happens in the mountains stay in the mountains?
Spoiler-Free Review
I absolutely loved And Now, Back To You. I honestly feel a little silly that it took me so long to pick it up because B.K. Borison has quickly become an author I know I can rely on for incredible romances.
After loving First-Time Caller, I was so excited to finally get Jackson’s story. I loved seeing those little glimpses of him in the first book, but getting to explore the other side of his friendship with Aiden. And how Aiden fits into Jackson’s family dynamic. It was such a great addition. It felt like we were getting the other half of a story we already knew.
Delilah was such a fun character. She is bubbly, determined, and passionate about her career. But she also has that people-pleasing side where she sometimes puts everyone else before herself. I loved seeing her grow throughout the story. Her chemistry with Jackson was undeniable, and their banter was one of my favourite parts. Their relationship felt natural, and I loved watching everything develop alongside the evolving storyline at the radio station. This was such a heartfelt, funny, and beautifully written romance. 5 Stars.
Spoiler Review
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• One of the most heartbreaking parts of this book was Jackson’s relationship with his mother. And how different it was compared to the relationship she had with his sisters. Watching one sister continue hoping their mother would become the parent they needed, only to be repeatedly disappointed, was difficult. The contrast between the love Jackson found with his sisters and the love he found with Delilah beautifully explored how love, whether romantic or familial, can look so different.
• Delilah’s storyline with her grandfather as equally emotional. Seeing him slowly lose his memories due to dementia was heartbreaking. Especially as someone who has experienced the impact of Alzheimer’s in my own family. I thought B.K. Borison handled this storyline with so much care. It wasn’t just there for sadness, but to show the love that shaped Delilah.
• The microphone mishap scene between Jackson and Delilah was everything. Their chemistry was undeniable, and it felt like the moment they just needed to admit they belonged together.
• Delilah’s boss was a dick. A running theme for my May reads. Men who are dicks. But I loved seeing her stand up for herself.
Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
Genre: Romance
Tropes: Childhood Best Friends, Returning Home and Slow Burn.
Pages: 416
Spice: Moderate
Format: Kindle & Audio (Dual Read)
Book Synopsis:
“Two best friends. Seven days in paradise. One last chance to fall in love or fall apart.
Frankie and George have been best friends since they were eight. They’ve always clashed and come back together. It’s what they do. Until now. On the eve of her wedding, Frankie doesn’t know where they stand or even if George will show up as her best man.
As she loses hope, in walks George. For one glorious evening, Frankie’s life is finally perfect. But it all comes crashing down when her fiancé dumps her the next morning, leaving only a note behind.
Crushed and confused, Frankie only wants to wallow. But George has a different idea. He wants her to go on her honeymoon. With him. For one week, to the lush rainforests and misty beaches of Tofino.
Frankie agrees, seeing the trip for what it really is: one last chance to repair their friendship. Even if it means unearthing secrets and long-buried feelings neither knows how to handle. Even if it means falling apart for good.“
Spoiler-Free Review
I recently read One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune and absolutely loved it. So, I was desperate to pick up another of her books. While Our Perfect Storm didn’t quite reach the same heights for me, I still really enjoyed it.
This is a classic friends-to-lovers story following Frankie and George. And while the direction of the romance was fairly predictable, it was still incredibly enjoyable. George’s reveal wasn’t a huge surprise to me. But I did enjoy seeing how everything unfolded and how their history shaped their relationship.
As always, Carley Fortune’s writing really shines when it comes to setting. She creates such vivid, beautiful locations without overwhelming the story with description. And Tofino felt like a place I immediately wanted to visit.
I also enjoyed the deeper character elements, especially Frankie’s complicated relationship with her mother. And how that influenced the way she viewed love and relationships. I’ve noticed this becoming a recurring theme in romance books I love, where the focus isn’t just on romantic relationships but also on the family relationships that shape us. Overall, this was another enjoyable Carley Fortune romance, 4 Stars.
Spoiler Review
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• Frankie’s whale story was such an unexpected and interesting part of the book. Especially how it connected to her relationship with her mum. I could understand her mum’s love for the whale and how much meaning it held. But it was difficult to understand how she could love her daughter so deeply, name her after something so important…and then still leave her behind for that same love. It was complicated, but it added so much depth to Frankie’s story.
• George really made the biggest mistake. His guardedness around his feelings for Frankie came at the worst possible time, and he wasn’t the friend she needed when she was struggling. Her soon-to-be husband was also a dick for not speaking up more, but George’s actions still hurt her deeply.
* I loved the ending. Seeing Frankie and George finally find their way back to each other, get married, and build their life together felt like the perfect full-circle moment.
May’s Reading Stats
As always, putting everything into TheStoryGraph App, I found…
I read 5 books.
A total of 1,917 pages.
100% of the books read were fiction.
Genre-wise, we have romance, contemporary, crime, classic and mystery.
My average rating for the month was 4.3. One of my lowest ratings this year.
60% were read in print.
40% were digitally read. I’ve now added a Kindle to my reading. It has been a lot better than previous e-reading experiences.
As mentioned in the April Wrap-Up, I will post a huge book haul list on June’s Reading Wrap-Up post.
And those are all the books I read this past May. Are there any here you also enjoyed?
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As always, thanks for reading…
