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If there is a flaw, it lies in the occasional exposition that explains what sharp dialogue already reveals.

A slightly leaner middle section would heighten impact.

Perfect for readers who enjoy intelligent cozy mysteries rich in art world intrigue, strong women, and moral depth.

5 end

Relationships unfold through dialogue and action rather than exposition, giving the story emotional realism.

Dayton’s writing style is confident, clear, and cinematic, with just enough flourish to paint vivid scenes without slowing the pace.

4

Dayton’s pacing keeps readers hooked, balancing intrigue with moments of humour and tenderness.

The characters are distinct and believable.

Sadie is clever and grounded, while supporting figures like Hugh and Daniel add texture and loyalty.

3

The novel follows Sadie Stewart, an artist and gallery owner, whose Valentine’s Day trip to New York spirals into a web of murder, forgery, and family secrets.

Well constructed, the plot weaves suspense with genuine warmth.

2

A Valentine to Die For by LB Dayton review

www.amazon.co.uk/Valentine-Di...

This novel delivers a lively and emotional, layered cozy mystery set in the polished, high-stakes world of art galleries and collectors.

1

It offers laughs, longing, and a satisfying payoff.

It’s a charming, resonant read that romance fans will adore.

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Wakefield’s writing style is engaging and cinematic, with sharp dialogue and vivid scene-setting that bring both characters and locations to life.

While the pacing is generally strong, tightening some middle chapters would maintain the momentum.

This is a feel-good romance with substance.

5

Avery is a standout heroine, resilient, relatable, and devoted to her brother.

Nash’s transformation from arrogant celebrity to a well-grounded man is equally interesting.

Benji adds a delightful dose of heart and humour.

4

What starts as a rocky introduction grows into a tender and believable romance built on trust, vulnerability, and second chances.

The plot is fresh yet familiar, capitalising on classic tropes like enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity without feeling too clichéd.

3

The story follows scandal-prone baseball star Nash Fontaine and independent server Avery Morrow, whose lives collide when Nash becomes a mentor to Avery’s younger brother, Benji.

2

A Players Guide to Catching Feelings by Ava Wakefield review

www.amazon.co.uk/Players-Guid...

This novel delivers a heartwarming and witty romance, blending swoon-worthy charm with genuine emotional depth.

1

For readers who enjoy layered romances, found-family dynamics, and a strong dash of humour with their heartache.

6 end

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Minor critiques are that the romantic tension could escalate faster in the early chapters, and a few emotional turns feel telegraphed.

However, these are small quibbles in a story that delivers on warmth, character growth, and emotional payoff.

5

The banter is snappy, the emotional beats land clean, and the writing balances sweetness with grounded, witty narration.

The setting, Lavender Lane, is a character in its own right, full of nosy charm and small-town texture.

4

The plot is well-paced, with Lily’s accidental lie (that Dean is her boyfriend) kicking off a spiralling mess of gossip, growth, and genuine connection.

The characters are lively and well drawn, with standout support from the meddling Sophie, the wise Margot, and the ever-faithful Scout the dog

3

At its centre is Lily, a burnt-out pastry chef returning home, and Dean, her broody neighbour with a surprising amount of emotional depth and practical flannel.

2

A Grump Next Door by Ava Sparrow review

www.amazon.co.uk/Grump-Next-D...

This novel is a charming, slow-burn, small-town romance that blends heart, humour, and a touch of chaos.

1

Readers who enjoy gothic tension, muted psychological depth, and stories that blur reality and imagination will find A Deadly Nightmare very rewarding.

5

The writing is disciplined and vivid.

Dayton uses strong verbs and sensory details to create scenes that linger.

The prose avoids excess yet remains rich, showing a clear command of craft. The pacing can slow in reflective passages, but never loses emotional focus.

4

Sadie’s growth from fear to acceptance drives the novel with muted strength.

Supporting figures (Hugh, JD, and Darya) add texture without distracting from the core conflict.

Each scene builds tension through silence, gesture, and imagery rather than exposition.

3

The story follows Sadie Stewart, a young painter drawn into a disturbing connection with a cursed painting linked to her late parents.

The plot is tight, layered, and charged, moving between dream and reality with precision and control.

The characters feel alive and human.

2

A Deadly Nightmare by LB Dayton review

www.amazon.co.uk/Deadly-Night...

This novel is an atmospheric psychological mystery that explores grief, legacy, and the haunting power of art.

1

If you enjoy food-centric sleuthing with a side of witty banter, this will be your new favourite series.

5 end

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The highlight is the climax, which weaponized the kitchen equipment in a way that feels both hilarious and satisfying.

This book is a perfect pick for fans of culinary mysteries, cozy thrillers, or readers who love “fish-out-of-water” travel narratives.

4

The plot is a page-turner, though it occasionally relies on coincidences that strain credibility, and Kat’s internal monologue often slips into “telling” rather than “showing” her mounting anxiety.

However, these are minor gripes in an otherwise addictive narrative.

3

Kat Calloway and her partner Bash are likeable, with a refreshing, authentic dynamic that grounds the high-stakes plot.

The mystery, centred on a fraudulent ghost-kitchen scheme and a missing chef, feels modern, relevant, and well-researched.

2

A Five Star Murder by LB Dayton review

www.amazon.co.uk/Five-Star-Mu...

This novel is a vibrant, fast-paced culinary mystery that captures the intensity of Manhattan’s restaurant scene.

1

Glasgow Council's City Property just gave arts groups at Trongate 103 weeks to accept a 4x rent hike or face lockout.

These charities help disabled people, host emerging artists, and fuel the city's culture.

This is how you hollow out a creative city.

#GlasgowArts

There are an awful lot of zeros in that number.

I expect there will be a zero in the number of benefactors for the poor too.