Quick Disclaimer - this post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these, I may earn a small commission. Please see my "privacy policy" for more information.
Hi friends! Curious to find out what I've been reading this month? Well, check out my February 2025 book reviews! I've also made a new blog category "book reviews" where you can check out all my previous book reviews on asheycakes.
I'm currently up to 12 books read for 2025. My goal was 20-30 so I'm sure I can make that goal at this rate.
Previous 2025 Book Reviews
January 2025 Book Reviews (6 min read)
PIN IT
February 2025 Book Reviews
The Never Game - Jeffery Deaver: Okay, first thing's first, I liked the video game theme throughout this story. But the writing is really blunt and Colter seems like he's a bit more of a baddie than a nice guy compared to the TV show Tracker. So I still personally prefer the TV show but the storyline in this book was really really good. And it had GREAT character development, I really felt like I knew the main characters when we were introduced to them, and the backstory for one particular character was gold, especially when Colter thought that they were the perp. I also liked how the suspense was built up in this book.
The Man Who Died Twice - Richard Osman: I was worried when I started off this book because of how much I did struggle with the first one in the series BUT having said that, this one was a lot better. I don't know if it's because I already knew who the characters were, so it was easier to piece together and keep track of everyone, but it was written way better too. I also liked the little references to Jeffrey Deaver's books - it felt serendipitous. It also had a little bit of a James Bond feel (in a non-misogynist way) and I liked that about this one. It gave me a little bit more hope for Richard Osman's other books. It shows how you can develop as a writer. Although sometimes I wonder how he comes up with this sh*t. It is strange that they are all characters who are elderly but if it works, it works.
How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Successes in Relationships - Leil Lowndes: Yeah, tbh I did like the start of this book and it does have a lot of good advice in it but as the book went on, it felt like it was specifically written for people who were rich (idk how else to say it). And I get a lot of the psychology behind it like don't go for the food if you wanna network because it looks like you're busy but some of it just felt off. Like it forgets about people who might be neurodivergent and that people do have different types of personalities. However, I did like the idea of always taking or wearing something that fosters conversation e.g., worry beads, an out-there piece of jewelry, or a colourful hat - having something that a person can compliment you on or ask about is a really good idea. But in my overall "expert" opinion, this book was a lot and it felt judgemental to a degree.
The Visitor - Lee Child (Jack Reacher #4): The Visitor was A LOT better than book 3 (Tripwire) and I liked the strange mystery behind it. I also liked how we saw Reacher grappling with the thought of having a home base and settling down with Jodie. I really liked Jodie's character but I have a feeling we probably won't see her for a while. Or ever again, but who knows? This book had depth and was gripping me the whole way through. However, when the murderer was revealed, it felt like a bit of a let-down. I'm worried that if I do go into more detail it would be a spoiler but I'll just say this, it was giving major cult vibes throughout the storyline.
The Housemaid - Freida McFadden: I don't know why I keep doing this to myself. Yes, her stories are easy to read and have big twists you don't see coming at the end of the book BUT I can't help wanting more from the characters. I liked this book more than The Teacher (ugh, shudder) but when McFadden writes two different perspectives, it seems like it's the same character. I wish there were subtle differences and it didn't feel like Millie and Nina were the same person. The theme for Millie in this book was good BUT there is always so much s$x in her books that it's like oh come on, why? I think Freida McFadden books are the newest guilty pleasure.
My next books to read are Fairy Tale by Stephen King and The Goodbye Man by Jeffery Deaver so keep an eye out for those in my March or April 2025 book reviews!
What books are you reading at the moment?
Have you read any of these books, what did you think?
Let me know in the comments below!
Thanks for reading,
Much love,
Ash x
SAVE TO PINTEREST
Wow! You've read 12 books already? I haven't found the time to ready any book but hopefully I'll some time. I haven't read any of these books but I'll love to read The Never Game.
Interesting list of books you have in here. I read the housemaid a while back, I don't remember much of it. I like your reviews!
Interesting list of books, The Never Game is on my reading list now.
Oh, an interesting mix of books. The only one I've previously heard of is The Maid, but I haven't read that one yet. I will for sure be adding The Never Game to my TBR and may have to check out the other ones as well. Thanks for these great little reviews.
Great list!