I’ve known an unfortunately non-zero number of couples in toxic relationships, but reading Samantha Downing’s scintillating new novel is probably the closest I’ll ever get to figuring out why a couple who are clearly bad for each other decide to stay together. The worst (or perhaps best?) part of this book is how I was…
For Your Own Good by USA Today bestselling author Samantha Downing is a sneaky thriller set at a prestigious private school, complete with interfering parents, overeager students, and one teacher who just wants to teach them all a lesson. Samantha Downing turns her keen eye for murder and mayhem—ribboned through with the social commentary that makes…
He Started It by Samantha Downing, author of the mega-hit My Lovely Wife, is the story of a family—not unlike your own—with a few more violent tendencies thrown in, all forced to participate in a precarious road trip to secure their inheritance from their recently deceased grandfather. If you think a long road trip with…
Hi there, reader! 2019 has been an incredible year for new crime fiction. From debut authors to returning favorites, serial killer thrillers to psychological suspense, this year has offered up a little something for everyone. I’m thrilled to share with Criminal Element readers my picks for the Best Crime Books of 2019 by Month—aka my…
Hello again, reader! It’s officially spring, and I’m thrilled to spotlight these five March books that you’ll want to check out. When I’m not reading or writing about crime fiction as Crime by the Book, I can often be found perusing Criminal Element’s fantastic selection of crime book reviews and features.
My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing is a wildly compulsive debut thriller about a couple whose 15-year marriage has finally gotten too interesting. Y’all, that was bananas. I read a lot of mystery novels, and I have done so since long before I started reviewing here for Criminal Element. Because of my deep familiarity with the…
