Tag: Thriller

Three More SAW Chapters Hit 4K UHD This Fall: Release Dates and Extras Revealed

Saw V steelbook. Photo: Lionsgate, used with permission.

Digital Release: SAW V, SAW VI & SAW VII Coming to 4K UHD

Want to play a game? Lionsgate is bringing three chapters of the iconic SAW franchise to 4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital with the individual releases of SAW V, SAW VI, and SAW VII. (EG PR, 2026)

(Note: Available for pre-order now!)

The three films continue Jigsaw’s twisted legacy, with Detective Hoffman taking center stage as a new series of deadly games unfolds. Each release includes both the theatrical and extended/unrated versions, along with legacy bonus content and brand-new Blu-ray features created specifically for these releases.

1. SAW V – November 10, 2026

  • Synopsis: FBI Agent Peter Strahm investigates the murders committed by the Jigsaw Killer, but as he digs deeper, he realizes that the crimes are part of a larger, more intricate plot. Meanwhile, Jigsaw’s accomplice, Mark Hoffman, has been promoted to lieutenant and is tasked with leading the investigation into the Jigsaw murders. As Strahm gets closer to the truth, he becomes the target of Jigsaw’s traps.

New Blu-ray Exclusive Featurettes

  • Establishing Shot with Director David Hackl
  • Everybody Deserves a Chance: David Hackl on SAW V

Legacy Special Features

  • Audio Commentary with Director David Hackl and First Assistant Director Steve Webb (Extended Version)
  • Audio Commentary with Producers Mark Burg and Oren Koules and Executive Producers Peter Block and Jason Constantine (Extended Version)
  • Audio Commentary with Director David Hackl and First Assistant Director Steve Webb
  • Audio Commentary with Producers Mark Burg and Oren Koules and Executive Producers Peter Block and Jason Constantine
  • “The Pendulum Trap” Featurette
  • “The Cube Trap” Featurette
  • “The Coffin Trap” Featurette
  • “The Fatal Five” Featurette
  • “Slicing the Cube: Editing the Cube Trap” Featurette
  • Behind the Scenes of SAW V
  • B-roll Footage
  • Cast & Crew Interviews
  • Theatrical Trailers
  • TV Spots

2. SAW VI – November 10, 2026

  • Synopsis: Insurance executive William Easton must complete a series of deadly “games” set up by Hoffman in order to rescue his employees and family. Meanwhile, the FBI comes to suspect that Agent Peter Strahm—framed by Hoffman as being Jigsaw’s successor—was not actually an accomplice, prompting them to re-open the investigation and drawing Hoffman into motion to protect his secret identity.

New Blu-ray Exclusive Featurette

  • The Murders Continue: Kevin Greutert on SAW VI

Legacy Special Features

  • Audio Commentary with Director Kevin Greutert and Writers Marcus Dunstan and Patrick Melton (Extended Version)
  • Audio Commentary with Producer Mark Burg and Executive Producers Peter Block and Jason Constantine (Extended Version)
  • Jigsaw Revealed
  • The Traps of SAW VI
  • A Killer Maze: Making SAW: Game Over
  • Music Videos:
    • “Your Soul Is Mine”
    • “Ghost in the Mirror”
    • “In Ashes They Shall Reap”
    • “Genocide/SAW VI Remix”
  • Trailers (2)
  • TV Spots
  • Nurse Featurette
  • Tobin Bell Featurette
  • Cast & Crew Interviews
  • Behind the Scenes (B-Roll)
  • Tobin Bell Responds to Fan Questions
  • Behind the Scenes: Director’s Diaries
Photo: Lionsgate

3. SAW VII – November 10, 2026

  • Synopsis: Author Bobby Dagen, who falsely claimed to be a survivor of one of Jigsaw’s games to become a local celebrity, finds himself trapped in a real game where he must save his wife. Meanwhile, John Kramer’s ex-wife, Jill Tuck, informs internal affairs that rogue detective Mark Hoffman is the man responsible for the recent Jigsaw games.

New Blu-ray Exclusive Featurette

  • Will You Survive Until the End? Director Kevin Greutert on SAW VII

Legacy Special Features

  • Producers’ Audio Commentary – Unrated Cut
  • Writers’ Audio Commentary – Unrated Cut
  • Deleted and Extended Scenes
  • 52 Ways to Die
  • Music Videos:
    • “Goliath”
    • “Cocaine Chest Pains”
    • “Pass Out”
    • “Hageshisa to, Kono Mune no Naka de Karamitsuita Shakunetsu no Yami”
    • “Full of Regret”
  • Behind the Scenes (B-roll)
  • Cast and Crew Interviews
  • Theatrical Trailers
Photo: Lionsgate

Ghost Light Movie Review: Mystery and Conspiracies Behind the Curtain

Ghost Light is available on digital and on demand. Photo: One Tree Entertainment, used with permission.

Movie Review: Ghost Light Delivers Theatrical Suspense

| Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Crime

One Tree Entertainment unveils Ghost Light, a gripping new feature that blends supernatural unease with a razor‑sharp crime mystery, unfolding between the courtroom and the dim corridors of a historic theater. Recently released on September 29, it’s available on digital and on demand – Rent/Buy on Amazon Prime Video. (One Tree Entertainment, 2026)

Movie Overview & Details

  • Synopsis: After her playwright husband Thomas passes away, actress Marion Neal finds herself involved in a lawsuit over the playhouse where she works and resides. As strange occurrences begin to take place, the hidden truth emerges regarding an intricate web of interwoven conspiracies and villainous agendas involving the attorneys, her loved ones, and the theater troupe.
  • Written & Directed By: Amir Faress
  • Starring:
    • Lisa Blake Richards (Rolling Thunder)
    • Cindy Dolenc (La Femme Nikita, The River Murders)
    • Laur Allen (The Young and the Restless, The Vigilante, Christmas at the Ranch)
  • Rating: PG-13
  • Runtime: 1 hr. 22 min

Review

If you think theater drama is strictly reserved for what happens on stage, think again. The psychological thriller Ghost Light turns a simple real estate dispute into a dark, twisty web of tension that will keep you guessing until the final curtain call.

The film stars veteran actress Marion Neal as a woman involved in a bitter lawsuit over the rights to her beloved playhouse, Necromancy Theatre. The Fisher brothers are suing her to force a sale of the playhouse and are trying to collect on years of back rent since the Neals never paid rent on the apartment above the theater. At the center of the suit is a document they signed stating the Neals could live rent-free in exchange for Nathan forgiving the millions embezzled from the company.

As the pressure mounts, Marion must navigate a world where trust becomes increasingly difficult and appearances can be dangerously misleading. Her struggle is not simply about protecting a theater; it becomes a fight to uncover the truth and stand against those determined to manipulate the situation for their own benefit. The narrative takes a surprising twist when Marion collapses on stage on opening night of her play ‘Séance,’ and that’s when the unraveling truly begins.

Character Spotlight: Marion Neal’s Fierce Resilience

Marion Neal is an incredible heroine: fiercely protective, emotionally vulnerable, but above all, relentlessly sharp. Her bond with the playhouse isn’t just about property, it’s her identity and legacy. As shadowy figures pull the strings behind the scenes, watching Marion navigate her transition from poised artist to investigator makes for a grounded emotional anchor.

Themes: Illusion, Power, and the “Ghost Light”

Ghost Light shines brightest in its thematic depth:

  • Illusion vs. Reality: The film consistently blurs the line between theatrical performance and actual deception.
  • Power & Corruption: It exposes how greedy people manipulate narratives to strip creators of their autonomy.
  • The Ghost Light Motif: The solitary bulb left on an empty stage at the end becomes a haunting symbol of lingering hope and truths that refuse to stay buried.

The Verdict

Packed with atmospheric tension and clever plotting, Ghost Light is a suspenseful tribute to the dark heart of the theater world. Its theatrical setting gives the story a distinctive atmosphere, while Marion’s fight for justice provides an emotional anchor. For fans of conspiracy-driven dramas, this film promises an unsettling journey into the shadows where ambition and deception collide.

“May the ghost light never falter and ward off all spirits.”

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.
Photo: One Tree Entertainment

**Thank you to One Tree Entertainment for the screener link for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

The Strangers: Chapter 2 and Chapter 3 Arrive on 4K & Digital

The Strangers Chapter 2 and Chapter 3. Photo: Lionsgate, used with permission.

🚨 Digital Release Alert: The Strangers: Chapter 2 & Chapter 3 Available Now!

Horror fans, rejoice! Lionsgate has officially brought the thrilling continuation and conclusion of The Strangers trilogy straight to your home screens. Both The Strangers: Chapter 2 and The Strangers: Chapter 3 are now available on 4K & Digital. (EG PR, 2026)

Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled marathon as Maya (Madelaine Petsch) fights for survival against the relentless, masked killers. Here is everything you need to know about both releases.

🔪 The Strangers: Chapter 2

Synopsis

The Strangers are back – more brutal and relentless than ever. When they learn that one of their victims, Maya (Madelaine Petsch), is still alive, they return to finish what they’ve started. With nowhere to run and no one to trust, Maya must survive another horrific chapter of terror as The Strangers, driven by a senseless, unceasing purpose, pursue her, more than willing to kill anyone who stands in their way.

Film & Release Details

  • U.S. Release Date: October 13, 2026 (4K + Digital)
  • Genre: Horror
  • Rating: R for Bloody Violence and Language
  • Running Time: 98 minutes
  • Year of Production: 2025

Cast & Crew

  • Cast: Madelaine Petsch, Gabriel Basso, Ema Horvath
  • Directed by: Renny Harlin
  • Written by: Alan R. Cohen & Alan Freedland
  • Based on Characters Created by: Bryan Bertino
  • Produced by: Courtney Solomon, p.g.a., Mark Canton, p.g.a., Christopher Milburn, Gary Raskin, Alastair Burlingham, Charlie Dombek

Technical Specs

  • Format: 16×9 (2.39:1) Presentation
  • Audio: English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio
  • Subtitles: Spanish, French
  • Closed-Captioned: No

Special Features

  • Heart of a Killer: Making The Strangers – Chapter 2 (19:05)
  • Q&A with Cast & Crew (42:52)
  • Theatrical Trailer

🩸 The Strangers: Chapter 3

Synopsis

In the final film of The Strangers trilogy, Maya (Madelaine Petsch) faces the masked killers one last time in a brutal, full-circle reckoning of survival and revenge.

Film & Release Details

  • U.S. Release Date: October 13, 2026 (4K + Digital)
  • Genre: Horror
  • Rating: R for Strong Bloody Violence and Language
  • Running Time: 91 minutes
  • Year of Production: 2026

Cast & Crew

  • Cast: Madelaine Petsch, Gabriel Basso, Ema Horvath
  • Directed by: Renny Harlin
  • Written by: Alan R. Cohen & Alan Freedland
  • Based on Characters Created by: Bryan Bertino
  • Produced by: Courtney Solomon, p.g.a., Mark Canton, p.g.a., Christopher Milburn, Gary Raskin, Alastair Burlingham, Charlie Dombek, Madelaine Petsch

Technical Specs

  • Format: 16×9 (2.39:1) Presentation
  • Audio: English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio
  • Subtitles: Spanish, French
  • Closed-Captioned: No

Special Features

  • Theatrical Trailer

Copyright & Legal Information:

The Strangers ― Chapter 2 © 2025 Strangers Franchise Productions I, LLC & Hasbula Productions, AIE. The Strangers ― Chapter 3 © 2025 Strangers Franchise Productions I, LLC & Hasbula Productions, AIE. Artwork & Supplementary Materials ®, ™ & © 2026 Lions Gate Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

New Horror Movie Based on Josh Malerman’s Best Selling Book

Other Mommy starring Jessica Chastain is now in theaters. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book-to-Movie Adaptation: Incidents Around the House

By Josh Malerman

The Book

A young girl’s troubled family is haunted by an entity she calls “Other Mommy” in this chilling tale from the bestselling author of Bird Box.

LOCUS AWARD FINALIST • BRAM STOKER AWARD NOMINEE

Synopsis

To eight-year-old Bela, her family is her world. There’s Mommy, Daddo, and Grandma Ruth. But there is also Other Mommy, a malevolent entity who asks her every day:

“Can I go inside your heart?”

When horrifying incidents around the house signal that Other Mommy is growing tired of asking Bela the question over and over, Bela understands that unless she says yes, her family will soon pay.

Other Mommy is getting restless, stronger, bolder. Only the bonds of family can keep Bela safe, but other incidents show cracks in her parents’ marriage. The safety Bela relies on is about to unravel and Other Mommy needs an answer.

Incidents Around the House is a chilling, wholly unique tale of true horror about a family as haunted as their home.

About the Author

Josh Malerman is a New York Times bestselling author and one of two singer-songwriters for the rock band The High Strung. His debut novel, Bird Box, inspired the hit Netflix film of the same name. His other novels include Daphne, Pearl, Spin a Black Yarn, and Malorie (the sequel to Bird Box).

The Movie (Other Mommy)

Now playing in theaters, Incidents Around the House comes to the big screen under the title Other Mommy, starring Jessica Chastain.

Synopsis

Bela, an 8-year-old girl living in a home fraught with marital tension, confronts a sinister entity that emerges from her closet. The presence, whom she calls “Other Mommy,” becomes increasingly threatening to both her and her family.

Movie Details

  • Director: Rob Savage
  • Writers: Nathan Elson, Josh Malerman
  • Cast: Jessica Chastain, Dichen Lachman, Karen Allen
  • Genre: Psychological horror, Supernatural horror, Thriller
  • Rating: R (for some bloody violence and language)
  • Run Time: 1 hr. 33 min.
Photo: IMDb

Book Review: ‘Jigsaw’ by Jonathan Kellerman (Alex Delaware #41)

‘Jigsaw’ is the latest Alex Delaware novel by Jonathan Kellerman. Photo: Penguin Random House

Book Review: Jigsaw (An Alex Delaware Novel)

By Jonathan Kellerman

Format: Audiobook

The Story

After not hearing from him in over a month, LAPD Homicide Lieutenant Milo Sturgis shows up at psychologist Alex Delaware’s place looking worn out and overworked. He’s stuck on an “easy” case that suddenly turned into a mind-bending whodunit.

When a young woman is found dead at her kitchen table, the initial evidence points directly to an ex-boyfriend with a criminal record. But Milo knows better than to trust an obvious answer, so he turns to Alex, his best friend and long-term consultant on “those cases,” the ones that are different, to help unravel an investigation that refuses to fit together.

Then comes a second grisly discovery: an elderly woman found frozen and mutilated inside a deep freeze. When Milo learns her identity, he’s stunned because she’s someone from his past. Complicating matters further, her home is an extreme hoarder’s den, virtually impassable due to years of accumulated trash and seemingly meaningless objects. Except for the envelopes of cash stashed among the garbage.

As Alex and Milo dig deeper into the seemingly unrelated crimes, they discover shocking links between the victims, unraveling a complex, multi-layered mystery that tests both Milo’s investigative acumen and Alex’s psychological insight.

About Alex Delaware

Alex Delaware made his debut in Jonathan Kellerman’s 1985 detective novel When the Bough Breaks. A forensic psychologist who originally worked in pediatric psychology, Alex frequently consults for the LAPD alongside his close friend, Lt. Milo Sturgis, who appears in every installment of the series.

  • Series Context: Jigsaw marks book 41 in the long-running mystery series.
  • Fun Fact: The series inspired an upcoming streaming adaptation on Prime Video, which is currently in development.

Get your copy of Jigsaw today!

Review

I like the Alex Delaware novels because they involve psychological themes and the author is a psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, just like Alex. This gives them an authentic voice that I find intriguing. With Jigsaw, Jonathan Kellerman delivers another gripping psychological mystery that takes what looks like an open-and-shut homicide and twists it into something far more intricate.

Milo and Alex remain the beating heart of the narrative. Their long-standing friendship gives their professional partnership genuine warmth and authenticity, while their contrasting investigative styles keep the pacing sharp and engaging.

Character Analysis

  • Dr. Alex Delaware: The analytical anchor of the story. Relying on keen psychological insight rather than brute force, Alex’s primary role is decoding the hidden motives behind irrational behavior—from a calculating killer leaving subtle clues to the complex profile of a severe hoarder. His calm, observant demeanor balances the darker, more visceral aspects of the crimes.
  • Lieutenant Milo Sturgis: Driven, cynical, yet fiercely loyal, Milo brings grit and procedural muscle to the duo. Because this case hits exceptionally close to home, the personal connection introduces a rare layer of emotional vulnerability to his hardened LAPD persona, significantly raising the emotional stakes.

Core Themes

  • Deception vs. Hidden Reality: The narrative repeatedly contrasts surface appearances with deeper truths. A seemingly straightforward domestic homicide unravels into a layered mystery, reminding us how easily initial evidence can mask darker realities.
  • Psychological Decay and Hoarding: Beyond serving as a physical obstacle, the hoarder’s den acts as a powerful metaphor for hidden trauma, obsession, and emotional isolation. The physical clutter directly mirrors the tangled mental state of the victim and the labyrinthine nature of the crime itself.
  • The Interconnectedness of Disparate Lives: Kellerman explores the hidden webs connecting seemingly unrelated individuals, illustrating how past relationships, secret transactions, and forgotten histories cross paths—reinforcing the idea that no crime occurs in a vacuum.

Final Verdict

Jigsaw is a fast-paced thriller that expertly fits every piece together for a shocking final reveal. Set against a vivid, noir-infused Los Angeles backdrop, Kellerman captures the city’s unique ambience with sharp, haunting detail. Delaware’s nuanced behavioral analysis balances Sturgis’s street-smart instincts, delivering the exact cerebral punch long-time fans crave.

It’s a deeply satisfying read for anyone who enjoys psychological depth paired with classic detective work, proving once again why the Delaware-Sturgis dynamic remains a gold standard in crime fiction.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

About the Author

Jonathan Kellerman is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than three dozen crime novels, including the Alex Delaware series, The Butcher’s Theater, Billy Straight, The Conspiracy Club, Twisted, True Detectives, and The Murderer’s Daughter.

He co-authored Double Homicide and Capital Crimes with his wife, bestselling novelist Faye Kellerman, and The Golem of Hollywood and The Golem of Paris with his son, bestselling novelist Jesse Kellerman. He is also the author of two children’s books and several nonfiction works, including Savage Spawn: Reflections on Violent Children and With Strings Attached: The Art and Beauty of Vintage Guitars. He has won the Goldwyn, Edgar, and Anthony awards.

Colleen Hoover’s ‘Verity’ Comes to the Big Screen

Verity is now playing in theaters nationwide. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book lovers, the wait is finally over! Colleen Hoover’s bestselling psychological thriller Verity has officially made its way to the big screen, and fans of the book are sure to have plenty to talk about.

With Dakota Johnson as Lowen Ashleigh, Anne Hathaway as the mysterious Verity Crawford, and Josh Hartnett as Jeremy, the adaptation brings Hoover’s dark, unsettling story to life. As Lowen begins ghostwriting Verity’s books, she uncovers a chilling manuscript that reveals shocking secrets about the Crawford family. Twisty, suspenseful, and deliciously disturbing, Verity is one book-to-movie adaptation readers have been eagerly waiting to see.

Now the big question: will the movie leave us just as stunned as the book?

Verity is now playing in theaters nationwide.

Quick Movie Details

AttributeDetail
GenrePsychological Thriller, Crime, Drama, Mystery
RatingRated R (sexual content, nudity, language, violence, and bloody images)
Runtime1 hour 57 minutes

Book Synopsis

Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish. Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity’s notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. (Barnes & Noble, 2026)

What Lowen doesn’t expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read, page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity’s recollection of the night her family was forever altered. Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents could devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen’s feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife’s words.

After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue loving her.

About the Author

Colleen Hoover is the #1 New York Times and international bestselling author of twenty-five novels and novellas. Her work spans across New Adult and Young Adult contemporary romance as well as psychological thrillers. Colleen is also a scriptwriter, producer, and co-founder of the production company HeartBones Entertainment. (Colleen Hoover, 2026)

Photo: IMDb

New Digital Releases: Shadow Force & Battle Cabin

Battle Cabin is one of two movies being released in digital this September 29. Photo: Lionsgate, used with permission.

Digital Release Alert

Movie night just got an upgrade! Two action-packed thrillers are heading to digital platforms on September 29, 2026. Whether you are in the mood for a post-apocalyptic survival story or a high-stakes espionage chase, here is everything you need to know about this week’s biggest releases from Lionsgate. (EG PR, 2026)

🏕️ Battle Cabin

  • Release Date: September 29, 2026 (Digital)
  • Genre: Action, Thriller
  • Rating: R (for violence and some language)
  • Runtime: 100 minutes

Synopsis

In the wake of a massive global attack, the world has become a brutal, lawless landscape where electricity, government, and civility are distant memories. When Kellan is forced to venture outside his secure homestead to save his wife, he is met by a wave of murderous thieves with a connection to his past. His family’s survival now depends on a brilliant battle plan and an unlikely alliance with a hardened warrior.

Cast & Crew

  • Starring: Josh McKenzie, Delaney Tabron, Michael Hurst, Kali Kopae, Rama Marrow, Nell Fisher, Marshall Napier
  • Directed By: Aaron Falvey
  • Written By: Justin Eade

Technical Specs: Audio: English Dolby Digital 5.1 | Subtitles: English SDH, French, Latin American Spanish | CC: Yes

Where to Stream: Fandango at Home, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and Google Play.

🕶️ Shadow Force

  • Release Date: September 29, 2026 (4K, Digital)
  • Genre: Action, Thriller
  • Rating: R (for violence, and language throughout)
  • Runtime: 104 minutes

Synopsis

Kyrah (Kerry Washington) and Issac (Golden Globe nominee Omar Sy) were once the leaders of a multinational special forces group called Shadow Force. They broke the rules by falling in love, and in order to protect their son, they go underground. With a large bounty on their heads, and the vengeful Shadow Force hot on their trail, one family’s fight becomes an all-out war.

Cast & Crew

  • Starring: Kerry Washington, Omar Sy, Mark Strong, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Jahleel Kamara
  • Directed By: Joe Carnahan
  • Written By: Leon Chills and Joe Carnahan

Special Features

  • Shadow Force: Declassified — Audio Commentary with Writer-Director Joe Carnahan and Editor Kevin Hale
  • Making Shadow Force — Ain’t Nothing to F*** With
  • International Waters: The Locations Behind Shadow Force
  • Isla Gunfight: Final Battle Breakdown
  • Couples Therapy: Stunts and Weapons Training
  • Theatrical Trailer

Buy 4K Blu-ray

Technical Specs: Format: 16×9 (2.39:1) Presentation in Dolby Vision | Audio: English Dolby Atmos, English Descriptive Audio, French 5.1 Dolby Audio | Subtitles: Spanish, English, English SDH, French | CC: No

Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play, Fandango, Apple TV

‘Ironwood’ Review: Detective Stilwell and Renée Ballard Team Up in Catalina

‘Ironwood’ is the second book in Michael Connelly’s Catalina series featuring Detective Stilwell. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Review: Ironwood: A Catalina Novel
Author: Michael Connelly
Format: Audiobook
Previous Book In Series: Nightshade

The Story

Detective Sergeant Stilwell knows that his posting on Catalina Island is no paradise, but to most residents, it seems blissfully separated by twenty-two miles of ocean from the troubles of Los Angeles County. But now, a threat is coming to his safe haven. (Barnes & Noble, 2026)

It begins with Stilwell and his deputies watching a plane land in the middle of the night at the Airport in the Sky, a remote airstrip in the mountains. The operation starts going sideways the moment a duffel bag of drugs is dropped and the deputies move in. Stilwell chases the fleeing pickup man into the mountainside brush, but shots are fired on the runway and the plane flies off.

Because of the internal inquiry that follows, Stilwell is benched until he is cleared of responsibility for the failed operation. Determined to find out who brought deadly violence to his island, he begins a secret investigation into the drug deal gone wrong.

To fill his time while under orders to remain in the sheriff’s substation, he begins organizing the lost-and-found bin. He uncovers a valuable, unclaimed backpack and traces it to a woman who disappeared while hiking on the island four years ago. Why was the pack only recently turned in? This discovery sparks an off-the-books investigation that bridges the mainland and the island, drawing in LAPD Open-Unsolved Unit Detective Renée Ballard.

Stilwell and Ballard work the case from both sides of the channel, soon realizing they are on the trail of a criminal who enjoys taunting the authorities. Frustrated at being shut out of an investigation on his own island, Stilwell risks his already shaky standing in the department to pursue a case whose reach is far wider than he ever imagined.

Review

With the second book in the Catalina series, Michael Connelly takes readers away from the familiar streets of Los Angeles and drops them straight onto Catalina Island. In Ironwood, paradise proves to be far more dangerous than it appears.

Detective Sergeant Stilwell is experienced, stubborn, and deeply committed to protecting the island he calls home. His persistence is inspiring, and his willingness to risk his career when he knows something isn’t right makes him a compelling protagonist.

Connelly excels at exploring the illusion of safety. Catalina may be separated from the mainland, but distance cannot keep violence, corruption, or greed at bay. The underlying themes – loyalty, justice, corruption, and the blurry line between following the rules and doing what is right-elevate the story’s suspense.

The introduction of Renée Ballard adds another strong dimension to the narrative. Stilwell is a principled, island-bound lawman fighting to protect his jurisdiction, while Ballard brings the perspective of an experienced mainland cold-case detective. As they unravel the trail left by a cruel criminal, Connelly blends local island logistics with procedural grit.

Overall, Ironwood is a suspenseful, atmospheric mystery packed with complex characters and tight twists. Connelly demonstrates once again why he remains a master of procedural thrillers and cross-jurisdictional dynamics. Rich with realistic detective work, Ironwood is a stellar addition to his universe and a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

“It was as if he liked dropping these hints. That he gets off on it. It’s the I’m-smarter-than-you complex. Most serials have it. It’s the fulfillment of hiding in plain sight.”

Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

About the Author

Michael Connelly is the author of forty-one previous novels, including New York Times bestsellers The Proving Ground, Nightshade, and The Waiting. His books. which feature the Harry Bosch, Lincoln Lawyer, Renée Ballard, and Catalina series, have sold more than 92 million copies worldwide. A former newspaper reporter and award-winning journalist, Connelly is also the executive producer of four hit television series: Bosch, Bosch: Legacy, The Lincoln Lawyer, and Ballard.

Dean Koontz’ ‘The City’ Review: A Coming-of-Age Thriller

‘The City’ by Dean Koontz is a poignant combination of music and mystery.

Book Review: The City by Dean Koontz

Synopsis

The City centers around Jonah Kirk, a young piano prodigy whose extraordinary musical talent allows him to recognize the hidden pulse of the metropolis surrounding him. Joined by his brilliant best friend, Malcolm, Jonah embarks on a journey that balances the sheer wonder of creation against profound mortal danger.

His remarkable family, tested by the extremes of evil and bound by the depths of love, is on a collision course with a band of killers about to unleash anarchy. Along the way, he finds two unlikely allies: Mr. Yoshioka, an everyday hero strengthened by his past, and Miss Pearl, a woman of mystery who holds the key to the future.

These are the people of The City—a place where enchantment and malice interweave, courage and honor are found in the most unexpected quarters, and the way forward lies buried deep inside the heart. Their unforgettable story is a riveting, soul-stirring saga that speaks to everyone.

Review

Dean Koontz’s The City is a captivating blend of suspense, fantasy, music, and coming-of-age drama. Some books simply tell a good story, while others take you somewhere and make you feel as though you’ve become part of the characters’ lives. The City is that kind of book.

Jonah is an engaging protagonist because despite his extraordinary musical talent, he’s not invincible. He still feels like a kid trying to understand the complicated world of adults. His friendship with Malcolm and his sister Amalia provide emotional depth and demonstrate the importance of loyalty and companionship.

The narrative is told through Jonah’s first-person point of view as he reflects on his experiences as a young boy and how they shaped his future. The prose is haunting and poetic:

“But fear can lead people to do things they would never contemplate in placid times. Fear can blind us, but so can anger.”

Family is another powerful part the novel. Jonah’s multi-generational family faces unimaginable danger, but their love for one another becomes a primary source of strength. That devotion is put to the ultimate test and the senseless cruelty of Fiona Cassidy and her conspirators contrasts sharply with Jonah’s warmth.

The mysterious Miss Pearl, who moves in and out of Jonah’s life, remains an enigmatic figure. Her knowledge and insights suggest a larger destiny awaiting Jonah, while the city itself functions as a living character, brilliantly illuminated by light and dark magic, where fate, music, and moral choices intersect.

The novel explores timeless themes:

  • Good versus evil and moral choice
  • Courage, sacrifice, and enduring friendship
  • The power of love and discovering your true purpose

The way music is woven into the story stands out in particular; it represents creativity, beauty, and the ability of the human spirit to rise above darkness.

Koontz combines suspense with heart. It’s mysterious, sometimes frightening, but also surprisingly tender. Ultimately, it’s a story about finding courage within yourself and discovering that even in the darkest circumstances, love and hope can still light the way.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The City is a supernatural thriller about growing up, discovering one’s purpose, and finding strength through love and courage. It suggests that the way forward through hardship lies buried deep within the human heart. Readers who appreciate a mix of mystery, suspense, and literary fiction will find it both entertaining and deeply heartwarming.

“Outside the wind blew cold and the sun shone bright. On that bustling street, among those many big trucks and busy people, with the city all around for miles and miles, I felt terribly small, and worse than small. Suddenly I felt alone.”

Rating: 4 out of 5.

About The Author

Dean Koontz is an American author of suspense thriller that frequently incorporate elements of horror, fantasy, science fiction, mystery, and satire. Many of his books have appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list, with fourteen hardcovers and sixteen paperbacks reaching the number-one position. He has published over 105 novels and a number of novellas and collections of short stories, and has sold over 500 million copies of his work. He has been acknowledged as “America’s most popular suspense novelist” by Rolling Stone and as one of today’s most celebrated and successful writers.

Post-WWI Trauma Meets Classic Detective Noir: ‘No Saints Only Killers’ Review

‘No Saints Only Killers’ by Luke Deckard is 1920s post-war nor at its finest. Photo: Paste Creative Book Tours, used with permission.

Book Review: No Saints Only Killers by Luke Deckard

Part of Paste Creative Book Tours

The Story

Logan Bishop is an American war-damaged private investigator living in London in 1922. On a cold Monday morning, he returns to his modest home to find a postcard in the mail from his estranged father, Reverend Daniel Bishop of Chicago. He’s in town and needs to meet up with Logan to talk about important matters.

Logan hasn’t heard from him in over a decade, and for good reason. Daniel was abusive to Logan throughout his childhood and Logan equates contacting him with being back at war. Reluctantly, he calls the hotel room. Daniel sounds desperate and paranoid, pleading for Logan’s help with an urgent matter. But before he can explain, the line goes dead after what sounds like a violent confrontation.

Before slipping into a coma, Daniel leaves Logan with a desperate plea: find Greta Matas, a woman tied to his past, before she’s killed.

Logan heads to Edinburgh in search of answers, but from the moment he arrives, nothing adds up:

  • Greta is missing.
  • Her son is wanted for murder and on the run.
  • Logan is being watched—by the police, by gangsters, and by men who will do anything to keep the truth buried.

As Logan encounters police officers, gangsters, and dangerous secrets, his investigation becomes both a hunt for the truth and a search for personal redemption… provided he doesn’t end up dead first.

Photo: Paste Creative Book Tours

Get your copy of ‘No Saints Only Killers’ today!

Review

Set against the backdrop of 1922 London and Edinburgh, No Saints Only Killers delivers a sharp and atmospheric slice of post-World War I noir. The novel follows Logan Bishop as he is forced out of his isolated routines by the brutal attack on his estranged father, launching him into a deadly, fog-shrouded investigation to find a missing woman from his father’s past.

Character Analysis

Logan Bishop is a complex and deeply flawed protagonist who embodies classic hardboiled detective tropes while remaining grounded and human. As a former military sniper struggling with severe shell shock and a crippling morphine addiction, Logan’s willingness to pursue the mysterious Greta Matas reveals a stubborn sense of loyalty beneath his damaged exterior. His troubled relationship with his father gives the story personal stakes, driving Logan into dangerous territory despite his instincts to stay hidden.

Core Themes

  • Trauma and Disillusionment: The shadow of the Great War hangs over every chapter, illustrating the psychological scars left on a generation trying to numb their pain in the early years of the Jazz Age.
  • Systemic Corruption: The narrative explores the dark underbelly of 1920s Britain, exposing a world where institutions offer no salvation and power rests in the hands of ruthlessly corrupt forces.
  • Moral Ambiguity: True to its title, the novel demonstrates that in a broken society, absolute virtue is an illusion and everyone is navigating varying shades of grey.

“‘You want compassion?’ I wanted to laugh. ‘There are no saints in this world, only killers.’”

Style & Tone

In true noir fashion, the story is told entirely through Logan’s first-person perspective. It’s fast-paced, easy to read, and packed with plot twists around every corner. The prose balances gritty edge with vivid, poetic language:

“Two teardrops landed on the table and exploded. I crushed my eyes shut and inhaled as I pushed Tim and the hate I had for myself to the back of my mind.”

Final Verdict

Overall, No Saints Only Killers by Luke Deckard expertly combines historical mystery and postwar trauma, successfully transplanting gritty American noir into 1920s Britain. With its complex protagonist, high stakes, and dark atmosphere, readers who enjoy historical crime fiction and hard-boiled detectives will find this one hard to put down.

“Maybe I was a sucker for her pretty face. Maybe my motivation was shallow. I don’t know. I wanted to believe her. I also wanted to believe that maybe there was something between us, which possibly made me ignorant, or foolish.”

Rating: 5 out of 5.

About the Author

Luke Deckard is the author of No Saints Only Killers, which was shortlisted for the Amazon New Voices Awards and a finalist at Bloody Scotland’s Pitch Perfect. He is the co-host of the CINEMA SLEUTHS podcast, a reviewer for Get Your Comic On, and a creative writing mentor at the University of Westminster.

Photo: Paste Creative Book Tours

**Thank you to Stephanie Caruso, Paste Creative Book Tours, and Luke Deckard for the gifted copy for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.