Tag: Kay bratt

Chapters & Lattes, Monthly Reading

September Monthly Reads

Chapters & lattes

September was a good reading month. I finished three books, gave all three five stars, and started a fourth that already has me hooked. Grab your latte and let’s get into it.

Books I Finished

The Sky Beneath Her by Mary Ellen Taylor ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

From page one, I felt like I was right there with Tula Cassidy, carrying the weight of grief, guilt, and unfinished questions. She’s messy in the most relatable way, trying to rebuild her life while still tripping over the pieces of her past. Then there’s the historical storyline with Gertrude Werner, which is so vivid and tense that I kept catching myself holding my breath. Mary Ellen Taylor writes women with such tenderness and grit that you can’t help rooting for them.

What I loved most is how the book handles trauma and healing. It doesn’t rush it, and it doesn’t sugarcoat it. It lets these women find their strength in their own time, in their own way. And the ocean imagery? Gorgeous, haunting, and healing. It becomes a character all its own.

Link to full review: The Sky Beneath Her by Mary Ellen Taylor – Chapters & Lattes

Trust No One by Mary Burton ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This one is all about tension. Mary Burton doesn’t just ask “who did it?” She builds a creeping sense that nobody in the story is who they seem to be. The title is no exaggeration: you truly can’t trust anyone in this book, and that’s exactly what made it so addictive. I kept turning pages long past when I meant to stop.

Link to full review: Trust No One by Mary Burton Book review – Chapters & Lattes

It’s Only Love by Kay Bratt (Hart’s Ridge #17) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kay Bratt delivers another gripping, emotional mystery in the 17th installment of the Hart’s Ridge series. This time the story shifts gears. Taylor  takes a backseat, and her husband, PI Sam, steps into the spotlight during a trip to the Florida Gulf Coast.

When Walker Barrett arrives searching for the truth about his brother Wade’s mysterious disappearance, a case everyone else believes was a simple drowning, Sam and Taylor are pulled into a dangerous web of hidden betrayals, family secrets, and a trail of clues someone is desperate to keep buried. Seventeen books in, and this series still knows how to keep me hooked.

Link to full review: It’s Only Love by Kay Bratt Book Review – Chapters & Lattes

Currently Reading

Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate

I’ve just started this one, and so far I’m loving it. It caught my attention the moment I read what it was about, because part of the story takes place in the city where I was raised. It’s a fictional account inspired by the real-life Georgia Tann, who ran an illegal adoption operation in Memphis, Tennessee. Reading about a dark chapter of history set in streets I know so well is a little haunting, and I’m anxious to see where it goes. Review coming soon!

September Wrap-Up

Three five-star reads is a pretty great month. The theme of the month seems to be mysteries. I love a good mystery, and these did not disappoint. 

What did you read in September? Drop your recommendations in the comments, because my TBR is never full enough.

Chapters & Lattes, Cozy Mystery, Fiction, Romance

It’s Only Love by Kay Bratt Book Revew

Chapters & lattes

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“You ever find something out you wish you didn’t know”

Kay Bratt consistently delivers the kind of heartfelt, small-town mystery that keeps me returning to Hart’s Ridge. Seventeen books in, she still manages to create stories that feel fresh, emotional, and deeply engaging. Reconnecting with Sam and Taylor always feels like catching up with familiar friends.

Months after Wade Barrett’s unexplained disappearance, his brother Walker remains desperate for answers. Everyone else has accepted the official story of accidental drowning, but Walker can’t shake the feeling that something isn’t right.

When Sam and Taylor Gray step in to help, their investigation takes them away from Hart’s Ridge to a quiet coastal community where secrets linger beneath calm waters. As they retrace Wade’s final days, hidden truths begin to surface: emotional fractures, buried betrayals, and a trail that leads to a heartbreaking revelation.

This is a story about loyalty, love, and the quiet yet powerful ways grief shapes those left behind.

Kay Bratt never disappoints. I’m continually amazed at how she keeps readers invested after so many installments. In this book, I could truly feel Walker’s grief and determination as he searched for the truth about his brother. Sam takes center stage, and his unwavering commitment to uncovering answers gives the story a strong, steady heartbeat.

The pacing is perfect — never rushed, always rhythmic. The tension builds gradually, making it easy to keep turning the pages. While I found the ending somewhat predictable, I genuinely loved the journey the story took to reach it.

Bratt blends emotional depth with quiet moments, suspense, and a budding romance that adds warmth to the mystery. And as someone who always loves a good story with dogs, this one gives us two — a detail that made my heart happy.

If you enjoy stories filled with heart, emotion, determination, mysterious disappearances, a touch of romance, and loyal dogs, It’s Only Love is a book you’re going to love.

Kay Bratt continues to shine in this series, and this installment is another strong reminder of why Hart’s Ridge feels like home.

Click on the book cover to order the book from Amazon.

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!

Fiction, Women's Fiction

Collar me Crazy by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes

Title:| Collar my Crazy
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Dragonfly Cove Dog Park #2
Location: Dragonfly Cove, FL
Main Character: Emily
Other Characters: Kuno, Mari, Leslie
Pets: Daisy & Valor
Rating: 5

If you’re a fan of heartwarming tales and adore dogs, this book is a
must-read. Collar Me Crazy is the second installment in the Dragonfly Cove Dog Park series, and I’m absolutely loving the characters and their delightful canine companions.

Emily is navigating the challenges of being a first-time dog mom, uncertain if dog ownership is truly for her. With the assistance of a local policeman, Emily begins investigating a nearby pet store, uncovering unexpected discoveries beyond her wildest imagination and rescuing dogs from uncertain fates. You’ll adore Daisy, Emily’s mischievous Labrador, and you’ll definitely fall in love with Valor, a German Shepherd they saved from a dire situation.

The author’s ability to capture the essence of the human-dog bond is truly remarkable. Emily’s journey of self-discovery and personal growth, intertwined with the antics of her furry companion, Daisy, makes for a delightful and uplifting read. Whether you’re a dog lover or simply enjoy a well-crafted story, Collar My Crazy is a must-read that will leave you smiling and wanting more. Just take a look at the puppy’s face on the cover—who could possibly resist that? As a dog lover, this book truly tugged at my heartstrings.

‘Love is not running away or giving up, it’s staying and fighting”

Happy Reading

Be sure to check out the rest of the books in this series. This is a Novel Sequence which means that a different author writes each installment of the series.

Book 1: Pick of the Litter
Book 2: Collar Me Crazy by Kay Bratt
Book 3: Hearts Unleashed by Tammy L. Grace
Book 4: Back in the Pack by Barbara Hinske
Book 5: Loyal & True by Ev Bishop
Book 6: Coming Home to Heel by Jodi Allen Brice
Book 7: Unleashed Melody by Julie Carobini
Book 8: Teacher’s Pet by David Johnson
Book 9: A New Leash on Life by Patricia Sands

Happy Reading!


Cozy Mystery, Fiction

So This is Christmas by Kay Bratt

Chapters & lattes

Title: So This is Christmas
Author: Kay Bratt
Series: Hart’s Ridge #11
Main Character: Taylor Gray
Other Characters: Shane, Anna, Lucy, Cate, Jane, Willis, Seth, Erin, Raya, Ronnie, Missy Ann, Cecil, Ellis, Cotton
Pets: Taylor & Sam’s dog Diesel
Rating:5

So This Is Christmas by Kay Bratt is the eleventh installment in the Hart’s Ridge series, which is one of my  favorite  series.  Ms. Bratt has a remarkable talent for crafting stories that captivates readers, making it “cannot put down” book.

In this episode, Deputy Taylor Gray is spending a quieter holiday at home, recovering from illness and caring for her newborn daughter. However, the peace is disrupted on Christmas Eve when four bodies are found, leaving two children orphaned. Taylor is deeply conflicted between her wish to please her husband, Sam, who insists she stay out of the investigation, and her strong desire to be involved in solving this horrific crime. She must find a way to assist with the investigation without breaking her promise to Sam.

Amidst all the other events, the Gray family is also dealing with some sisterly drama.

The Hart’s Ridge series is set in the enchanting town of Hart’s Ridge. The characters are richly developed, and the plot is full of twists and turns that keep readers guessing.

Be sure to read the end where the author shares the true-life story that was the inspiration for this book.

Happy Reading!