Net Galley Book Reviews: August 8th

We’re back at it with another batch of NetGalley reviews. I recently read two books. One is a romance and one is a thriller (reviewed in that order).  I would recommend them both, so if you like these genres, try them out: 

1. August Lane by Regina Black

Rating: 3.3 Stars

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing  

Publication date: July 29th, 2025

I enjoyed this one. The plot itself was intriguing, and the storyline was captivating. It was unique and refreshing. This is more of an emotional romance than a cozy one. I liked the narrators; they did a good job of expressing the emotions in the novel. The male narrator executed humorous scenes very well, and I found myself laughing a ton throughout the book.

There were a few things that I had trouble with as I listened to this one, though. The timelines jumped around a lot, and sometimes I wasn’t sure which one we were in. I’m not sure if that’s because the author didn’t specify that in the chapter titles or if the audio didn’t clarify, but it was a little difficult to keep track of, and it took me out of the story at times. Also, the relationship development between the two love interests felt rushed. I know they had history, but I don’t feel like they worked through their past.

I will most likely reread this as a physical copy and see if I’d change my rating at all. I did enjoy the core of the story, and I hope the author continues writing this series. The characters and the atmosphere were very entertaining.

Thank you, NetGalley and Hachette Audio, for early access to this audiobook in exchange for an honest and free review.

2. Breakneck Bay by Faith Gardner

Rating: 5 Stars

Publisher: Mirror House Press

Publication date: July 24th, 2025

If you’re looking for something that will keep you on the edge of your seat and have you guessing until the very last page, pick this thriller up immediately. It’s perfect for any season, but reading it in the summer will maximize your thrills. 

We follow Kit while she works at Breakneck Bay, a water park notoriously known for its accidents, injuries, and even a deadly tragedy. Throughout the book, Kit is forced to face the fact that Breakneck Bay isn’t the only dangerous thing she’s going to come close to this summer. Her husband, Mitch, might not be who he says. Or is there someone else pulling the strings?

This book is creepy and suspenseful. Perfect for fans of Freida McFadden and Jeneva Rose. Worth the read. It’s on the shorter side, but it’s the perfect length for what it’s meant to be. No complaints. Pick this one up!

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and Mirror House Press for early access to this book in exchange for a free review.

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Make sure to follow me on GoodReads for real-time updates as to what I’m reading :) 

Tori Wils (Author of The War of Unsaid Things) 

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