Monday, May 30, 2016

Book Review: Blood Defense

Blood Defense by Marcia Clark
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer

A decorated LAPD detective is accused of murdering an actress who is considered to be “America’s Sweetheart”. Samantha Brinkman, an ambitious defense attorney, recognizes the media attention and potential clients that will come her way if she takes the case. She soon launches her own investigation in a quest for the truth and discovers that her client harbors a few secrets. His uncontrollable anger issues make her doubt his claim of innocence. She also learns things about herself and her personal life that rock her normally steady foundation.

This book is fast-paced without skimping on suspense or details. Each chapter is a satisfying read that makes you want to turn the page to see what happens next. The mystery is wrapped up in a satisfying way but there is also a few items that help set up for a sequel. I do so hope there is a sequel. The characters are well-developed and I would love to see where they go.

I received a free uncorrected proof copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my review. Even being an uncorrected proof I was only able to spot two errors and they were minor.


This is definitely worth a read. As always, if you have read it or will read it in the future, let me know in the comments.

Friday, May 27, 2016

Book Review: Death At A Fixer-Upper

Death At A Fixer-Upper by Sarah T. Hobart
A Home Sweet Home Mystery
Random House Publishing Group - Alibi

From the first line of the first chapter, I was hooked. Sam Turner is a single mother who is trying to build a future for her and her son. She’s working at a real estate agent as well as dealing with life’s ups and downs. Well, maybe a few more than a normal life.

She takes on showing a house that has a slew of problems attached to it. The crumbling house has a tenant who may or may not have murdered the previous owner. There’s rumors of the house being haunted. After a few scares in the home, dead bodies start popping up. Unfortunately the bodies can all be connected with Sam. Add in a police investigation and her life is turned upside down.

This book was a fast-paced read that was enjoyable from beginning to end. The characters are fun and there is plenty of humor and suspense and mystery to be found. I actually laughed out loud a few times. This book was definitely one that you could enjoy on a beach or on the couch under your favorite blanket.

I received a free copy of this book from the Houseparty.com ChatterBox program in exchange for my review and completing a short survey. #RHMysteryPack #Sponsored


Head over to Housparty.com and you can apply to become a ChatterBox for the monthly Random House Mystery Packs.

If you have read this book, please feel free to leave me your impressions in the comments.

Friday, May 20, 2016

Welcome!

Welcome to Shining Star Reviews! While our primary focus will probably lean towards books, we will also be reviewing other products.

Feel free to disagree in the comments but please keep it civilized.

We hope you enjoy your time here.