Tag: Hart's Ridge

Monthly Reading

Monthly Reads August 2026

Chapters & lattes

Definitely a 5 Star Month ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

August turned out to be such a satisfying reading month. I didn’t go into it with a theme, but somehow my stack ended up full of emotional journeys, small-town secrets, and the kind of character relationships that make me want to curl up with a latte and keep reading. Here’s a look at everything I read this month—and what I thought about each one.

🩷Piece by Piece — Rachel Hanna ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This was the perfect book to start my month. Rachel Hanna consistently delivers gentle, heartfelt Southern charm, and Piece by Piece was no exception. It’s emotional in a quiet way—the kind that truly sneaks up on you. I loved watching the characters rebuild, reconnect, and discover strength in the small moments. It felt like a warm hug in book form.

💛 Working Class Hero — Kay Bratt ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kay Bratt writes characters who feel real—flawed, hopeful, and resilient—and Working Class Hero is a beautiful testament to that skill. This story, rich with grit and heart, had me rooting for its characters from the very first chapter. It’s an honest, grounded read that resonates long after the final page.

🛻 Trailer Trash — Denise Grover Swank ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This book surprised me with its emotional depth. Trailer Trash finally opens up Neely Kate’s past in a way that allowed me to understand her so much more deeply. While the beginning is a little slow, once it settles in, the story becomes vulnerable, powerful, and full of heart. And Jed’s quiet, steady support? Absolutely perfect. This one was a standout for me.

🌾 In High Cotton — Denise Grover Swank ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I really enjoyed this one. It has that perfect mix of mystery and heart that Denise Grover Swank does so well. I adore Jed and Neely Kate together—their dynamic is supportive, gentle, and full of unspoken connection. And Neely Kate’s relationship with her newly discovered half-brother Joe? I loved every bit of it. My only tiny pet peeve: she refers to a gun’s magazine as a clip. It’s a magazine. But even with that little hiccup, this was such a great read.

💵 Dirty Money — Denise Grover Swank ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This one kept me turning pages. The stakes feel higher, the tension tighter, and Neely Kate’s growth really shines. I loved seeing her step into her own strength while still holding onto the relationships that matter most. It’s fast-paced, engaging, and a great continuation of her story.

☕ Final Thoughts

August was full of small-town heartfelt moments, emotional growth, and captivating mysteries. From Rachel Hanna’s gentle storytelling to Denise Grover Swank’s character-driven suspense, this month’s reads were exactly what I needed.

I’m already excited for September — hopefully for more cozy nights, more good stories, and maybe a few surprises along the way.

If you’ve read any of these, I’d love to hear your thoughts. If not, perhaps one will find its way onto your TBR.

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Romance, Women's Fiction

Working Class Hero by Kay Bratt Book Review

Chapters & lattes

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I’ll be honest—I went into Working Class Hero expecting the mystery to be the main event, and it wasn’t, not really. The setup is there: a house fire in Hart’s Ridge, a young pregnant woman dead, a case that looks closed until Sheriff Taylor Gray starts pulling at the threads. But if you’re looking for twists and misdirection, this one plays it pretty straight. I kept waiting for a rug-pull moment that never came, and by the end, I realized the mystery wasn’t really the point of this book.

Where Working Class Hero truly excels is in its emotional depth. This is Kay Bratt at her best, delivering the signature “emotional wallop” for which she’s known, and it profoundly affected me. I teared up more than once. The story leans heavily into sentiment, family, and the quiet weight of small-town history, creating a genuinely moving experience that resonated with me long after I finished the book.

No, it’s not the most gripping whodunit in the Hart’s Ridge series. But I didn’t care, because its emotional core is so strong. Sixteen books in, Bratt still knows exactly how to make you feel something.

5/5 stars — not for the mystery, but for the heart. If you love this series for its characters and emotions as much as its cases, you’ll love this one too.

I highly recommend this series. I suggest starting with the first book in the Hart’s Ridge Series to fully grasp the history and emotional journey of Taylor and her family.

Have you read this series? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Cozy Mystery

Ticket to Ride by Kay Bratt Book Review

Chapters & lattes

Title: Ticket to Ride
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #15
Location: Hart’s Ridge, GA
Main Character: Taylor
Other Characters: Sam, Shane Tula, Waylon, Alice,
Pets: Diesel
Rating: 5

I loved this book just as much as the others in the series. I’ve been hooked on this series since the first book.

What an intense and suspenseful book! I couldn’t put it down. Whenever I wasn’t reading, I found myself thinking about it. I stayed up far too late just to see how it would end. I have loved all the books written by Kay Bratt, and this one is no exception.

In this installment, a young woman has gone missing on her way to rehab. As Taylor investigates this mystery, another young girl, who is close to the family, also vanishes. Taylor and Sam are frantically searching for both missing girls.  As they investigate further, they reveal unsettling patterns, hidden motives, and a network of individuals who are not what they appear to be.

 Meanwhile, a sister and brother are on the run, as the sister tries to protect her brother from being sent to prison for a crime he didn’t commit.

Ticket to Ride has it all: a mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat, heart, and a strong family bond that will do anything to protect those they love. It will keep you turning pages long after you should be sleeping.

If you have read this series, share your thoughts in the comments.

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Tell Me Why by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes

Title: Tell Me Why
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #14
Location: Hart’s Ridge, GA
Main Character: Taylor, Shane, Tula
Other Characters: Anna, Jo, Cate, Lucy, Deputy Penner, Cecil, Earl, Sheriff Dawkins, Lana, Helene, Waylon, Lorine, Dixie, Curtis
Rating: 5

This is the 14th book in the Hart’s Ridge series. You might expect the story to become stale after so many installments, but Kay Bratt has a remarkable talent for introducing new ideas that keep the narrative fresh and engaging. Tell Me Why is a story that lingers in your mind long after you finish reading. From the very first chapter, I was immersed in a world of resilience, love, and the quiet strength of women who refuse to be defined by their hardships.

A burned car with a body inside is discovered on the outskirts of town, prompting former cop turned private investigator Taylor Gray to investigation. When it becomes clear that the victim is a close family friend, Taylor is determined to uncover the truth and identify those responsible. As she joins forces with her former partner Shane, their investigation leads them through a thrilling series of twists and turns, culminating in a surprise ending that ties all the pieces together.

Tell Me Why is a rare story that resonates deeply and stays with you. Kay Bratt portrays emotions with remarkable honesty, allowing readers to connect with the characters almost instantly. I embraced their flaws and became fully invested in their journeys.

If you enjoy a story featuring a strong female lead, a complicated family dynamic where members prioritize each other, and an engaging mystery filled with twists and turns leading up to a thrilling climax, you will love this series. I recommend reading the series in order so you can really get to know the Gray family with the other recurring characters.

If you have read any of the books in this series, please share your thoughts.

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Mystery, Women's Fiction

Now & Then by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes

Title: Now & Then
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #13
Location: Indiana & Hart’s Ridge
Main Character: Taylor, Sam, Anna
Other Characters: Janelle, Clem, Ed, Julie, Shelly, Thatcher, Jack, Rosana, Vernelle, Kelsey, Pete
Rating: 5

I have loved this series and its characters since the very first book, and this episode is no exception. Now and Then is the 13th installment of the Hart’s Ridge series.

This book swept me back into the world of Hart’s Ridge with the emotional depth I’ve come to expect from Kay Bratt. Taylor’s transition into private investigations felt seamless, and her pursuit of justice in a long-buried case was compelling and intricately layered. The pacing kept me engaged without feeling rushed, and I appreciated the gradual unveiling of twists that were both surprising and well-earned.

Janelle is Sam’s aunt, and her husband was convicted of murder ten years ago. She is convinced of his innocence and believes he did not commit this heinous crime. Recently, Sam and his wife Taylor have launched their private investigation business, and Janelle seeks their help to prove her husband’s innocence and uncover the real killer. The story takes several twists and turns as they work to determine whether Clem truly committed the crime.

In a subplot, we revisit Taylor’s sister, Anna. Since her divorce, Anna has faced numerous challenges and has worked diligently to rebuild her life for herself and her children. Her storyline adds tension and emotional depth to the narrative. Her determination to clear her name amid complicated accusations—especially those tied to her ex-husband’s powerful family—is compelling. I admire her resilience and the quiet strength she consistently demonstrates.

Kay Bratt excels at creating compelling female leads who balance vulnerability with determination. I appreciate the recurring family themes, emphasizing that even in difficult times, family always comes first and stays united. I couldn’t put this book down and stayed up late to finish it.

This book reminded me why I keep returning to this series: its emotional depth, compelling storytelling, and unwavering sense of justice. I highly recommend this installment to anyone who enjoys a mystery with heart.

Although this series can be read in out of order, I highly recommend beginning with book one so you can get to know the characters and their backstories.

Anyone who enjoys a compelling mystery featuring a strong female lead, brimming with heart and determination, will love this series.

Most of Ms. Bratt’s stories are inspired by real-life events, so be sure to read the end to discover the true experiences that this book is based on.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Every Little Thing by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes

Title: Every Little Thing
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #12
Location: Cabo San Luca, Mexico & Hart’s Ridge
Main Character: Taylor, Lucy
Other Characters: Sam, Cate, Ellis, Gia, Madison, Brady
Rating: 4 stars

Every Little Thing is the twelfth installment in the Hart’s Ridge Series, which I have thoroughly enjoyed since the first book. This episode offers a captivating mix of suspense and emotional drama, making it an engaging read. However, although it contains strong moments, some elements could have been even more impactful.

In this book, we alternate between Taylor’s story of a kidnapping in Mexico and Lucy’s journey of self-discovery.

Taylor’s investigation in Mexico stands out as one of the book’s highlights, filled with intrigue and tension as she seeks to unravel the mystery of the missing bride and her friend. However, the resolution of the kidnapping storyline lacks impact. A more intense climax, featuring unexpected twists—such as a shocking revelation or a high-stakes rescue—could have heightened the suspense and provided a more gripping conclusion.

Lucy’s personal journey, while meaningful, did not engage me as much as the rest of the book. At times, her storyline felt disconnected, and its pacing didn’t align with the urgency of the central plot. A stronger link between her narrative and the primary mystery could have made her arc more compelling, but as it stood, I found myself less interested in Lucy’s story.

Despite these elements, Bratt’s storytelling and character development remain strong, making the novel a valuable addition to the Hart’s Ridge series. It is an engaging read with emotional depth. While some moments could have been more impactful, it still earns a solid four.

Buy on Amazon!

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Romance

Starting Over by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes
  • Starting Over
  • Author: Kay Bratt
  • Series: Hart’s Ridge #8
  • Genre: Cozy Mystery, Romance
  • Takes Place: Hart’s Ridge GA
  • Main Character: Taylor
  • Other Characters: Sam, Cate, Sutton, Alice, Shane, Caleb, Corbin
  • Pets: Diesel along with several rescue animals
  • Stars: 5

This is another great read by Kay Bratt and the 8th book in her Hart’s Ridge Series.

We return to visit the Gray’s once more in this story about family dynamics, romance, secrets, helping where needed, balancing a busy life with family and of course, Mysteries.

A kidnapping rocks the town of Hart’s Ridge when Lydia, the wife of a local sheriff deputy, goes missing from the local Walmart. Deputy Taylor Gray along with the local Sheriffs Department and the FBI are on the case to find this missing woman. This takes Taylor away from her fiance, Sam, as he is dealing with some family struggles of his own.

Cate is struggling with her romantic life and recovering from a gunshot wound she received at the end of book #7. We meet a new character, Sutton, who has been accused of embezzlement. She moves in with Cate to help with her recovery and has secrets of her own.

Most of the book revolves around the search for Lydia and Sutton’s secret. Two great mysteries that will keep you guessing throughout the book.

I love this series. It pulls the reader in and it is a ‘can’t put down’ read. The characters are all 3-dimensional with distinct personalities. I love their strength and no matter their struggles, they always have each others backs. I recommend reading the books in order so you can get to know the Gray family fall in love with them as I have.

Be sure to read the Author’s note at the end of the book. The kidnapping in the book was based on a real life kidnapping. Parts of it were altered a bit but her inspiration came from an actual event.

Although I enjoyed this book immensely, I did have one issue with the ending. I felt like there was no closure. I don’t want to spoil it so I won’t say more. This was supposed to be the last book in the Hart’s Ridge series but due to popular demand, there will be a 9th book. I am so glad we get to visit with the Gray’s one more time. I am looking forward to book 9.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Hello Goodbye by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes
  • Title: Hello Goodbye
  • Author: Kay Bratt
  • Series: Hart’s Ridge #7
  • Genre: Cozy Mystery
  • Takes Place:  Hart’s Ridge
  • Main Character: Taylor, Sam, Shane
  • Other Characters: Larson, Marc, Abby, Jo, Lucy, Anna, Alice, Judith, Cecil, Jackson, Fair, Blanche, Abby, Larson
  • Pets: Diesel
  • Stars: 5

This is book 7 of the Hart’s Ridge series and I loved it, just the others. This is a great series.

The protagonist of the story is Deputy Taylor Gray. Taylor and her sisters went through foster care most of their lives. Taylor basically raised her sisters after her mother supposedly burned to death in a fire with her baby brother.In this installment there is a double homicide. The Swansons who have 3 adopted kids kids, are discovered brutally murdered. We first met this family when we Taylor called to Their home after Marc’s parents refused to let him in due to missed curfew. While Marc is the prime suspect in the homicide, he is currently in a behavior health facility. Is it possible that he may have broken out and gone and killed his parents? There are several suspects but who could have done this heinous crime? Taylor and Shane are on the case to find out who could have brutally murdered this couple and left their kids without parents.

As Taylor is dealing with a double homicide her relationship with fiance Sam could be rocky due to them finding out he may have a 12 year old daughter that he didn’t know about (we found that out at the end of the last book).

Sam is also trying help Taylor close a case that is very personal to her. She has a lead but will she finally be able to put an end to this case so she can move on with the rest of her life . And as if this isn’t enough, there is another tragedy to the story that you won’t see coming.

There are several stories going on so Taylor has her hands full. This is definitely a page turner that you will have trouble putting it down. Be ready to curl up and engross yourself in this well written mystery with twists and turns until the surprise ending.

Cozy Mystery, Fiction

Nobody Told Me by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes
  • Title: Nobody Told Me
  • Author: Kay Bratt
  • Series: Hart’s Ridge #6
  • Genre: Cozy Mystery
  • Takes Place:  Hart’s Ridge
  • Main Character: Taylor, Lucy
  • Other Characters: Jarret, Shane, Sam, Anna, Cate
  • Pets: Dogs Diesel & Ginger along with some other Rescues at the farm
  • Stars: 5

This is book six in Kay Bratt’s Hart’s Ridge series. I have loved this series from the very beginning. I just love the Gray sisters and their family dynamic. Even though they have their problems, they are always going to stand up for each other.

In this installment, the focus is more on Taylor & Lucy. We find out more about Lucy’s troubled past which she is trying to escape. Some things are happening that Lucy is blamed for, but Shane believes something else is going on, so he investigates. Is Lucy’s past about to catch up with her!!

The small town in rocked by the news of a local teen’s disappearance, who was later found dead. It is assumed he was drinking and wandered into the lake and drowned, but could there have been foul play!! Deputy Taylor Gray is determined to find out. Lucy’s dog, Ginger, also has a bit of a starring role.

As usual, the author takes us on a fast-paced roller coaster ride to solve these mysteries with an ending I didn’t see coming. And who doesn’t love a book with dogs!! I definitely recommend this series. Even though you can read these books as a standalone, it’s better to read them in order, as the series mentions many characters, and you get to know the Gray girls. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

The author usually takes her stories from real life. She explains in a note at the end of the book about the real life Jarrett and how he was the inspiration for this story in the book.

Happy Reading!

Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Mystery

Instant Karma by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes
  • Title: Instant Karma
  • Author: Kay Bratt
  • Series: Hart’s Ridge, GA
  • Genre: Small town mystery
  • Takes Place:  Hart’s Ridge
  • Main Character: Faire, Brian, Taylor, Jo, Corbin, Della Ray
  • Other Characters: Cate, Anna, Eldon
  • Pets: Dog named Diesel and a bird named Baby
  • Stars: 5

This is the 5th book in the Hart’s Ridge Series and it does not disappoint. I loved this book from beginning to end. It kept me engaged and I just had to know how it all turned out.

Faire, a widow in the community, decides to take in a boarder because she is having financial difficulties. Brian, her new border, at first seemed like a really nice guy. Do things really look as they do? How is Faire going to handle this border? What mysteries does he possess? Will Faire lose her home?

Meanwhile, we learn more about Jo’s story. Struggling to be a single mom, Jo just wants what is best for her son. Kyle has some behavior issues, so Jo signs him up for theater. He is not thrilled, to say the least. He ends up doing the best he can and wows everyone, especially Jo. A couple of guys from Jo’s past show up in her life, so she has some decisions to make

Taylor’s family has established an animal rescue, under Cate’s leadership. Even though Taylor is less involved than the others because she is a local police deputy, the entire family is involved.

Taylor stopped seeing Sam until she could deal with some demons from her past that she is battling.

This is a story of family, love, forgiveness, community, and supporting others. It is heartwarming and there is a mystery to solve. I think you will love this book as much as I did.

Happy Reading,