Jex Malone By. C.L. Gaber & V.C. Stanley

A new detective is in town and her name is Jex Malone.  Along with her fellow Drew-Ids, Jex seeks to solve the case that ripped her parent’s marriage apart.  The friends couldn’t be more different from one another; Jex is the sarcastically sassy one, Deva is the fashionista with funds, Cissy is the shy one, and Nat is the brains.  Together they create an unstoppable cold case-solving agency.

Jex has lived with her mother for most of her life, successfully escaping the court-mandated summers with her father.  The ignoring of court orders is swiftly put to an end with the threat of Jex’s mom having to do jail time.  So Jex gives into the courts and sets off for a summer with her father.  Jex Malone is a highly entertaining summer read, full of adventure, unlikely romance, and friendship. 

The Quick By, Lauren Owen

The Quick an intelligent mystery that left me genuinely surprised.  It’s a fiction novel that is refreshingly realistic.  I can’t wait to give this book to family and friends as a gift.  Taking place in Victorian London, this tale starts with a brother and sister.  James and Charlotte grow up close in their country home.  As they grow up James leaves for school, then London.  Leaving Charlotte to take care of their country home.  This novel has a realistic feel to it.  The realistic nature is what makes it so great.  I found the characters intriguing and had no trouble imagining the characters.  This novel is difficult to review without giving things away.  When the romance begins, just know that the book isn’t a romance novel.  If it were a romance novel, it would be a completely refreshing romance.  The Quick leans more towards the paranormal, secret society realm.

Before I Wake By, C.L. Taylor

Sue's daughter Charlotte lies in a coma after being struck by a bus.  Sue becomes convinced that Charlotte stepped in front of the bus on purpose.  But why?  Sue becomes obsessed about why her daughter to try to kill herself.  Following the clues, of what happened in the days leading up to her daughters accident, Sue attempts to pieces together what happened to cause her daughter to try to kill herself.  I really enjoyed this book, it's a visceral mystery.  A warning to women who have been in abusive relationships, if you are sensitive to the subject of domestic abuse do not read this book!  It will bring old emotions up.  C.L. Taylor presents the subject in a very realistic non-clique fashion.