What do you think?
Rate this book
Violets Are Blue: an addictive psychological thriller
Her perfect home. Her perfect man. How wrong can she be?
After a bitter divorce, criminal solicitor Laila moves to idyllic Violet Lane where she quickly falls for Max—her charming, piano-playing neighbor. They begin a wildly passionate affair and Laila feels she is really starting to live again.
But the tranquility of this close-knit community is shattered when Jackie, a young mother from across the street, goes missing. Her husband is the chief suspect and Laila agrees to act as his lawyer.
As she investigates Jackie’s disappearance, Laila discovers that this quiet street hides deadly secrets, and someone is watching her every move. Anonymous threats pull her ever deeper into a twisted web of deception.
Meanwhile, her intense relationship with Max is starting to feel like a runaway train. And Laila begins to wonder if her gorgeous new man may have a hidden dark side.
She desperately needs to uncover the truth. And when she does, Laila realises that she’s put herself in terrible danger, that she may lose everything – including her life.
Violets Are Blue - the dark and steamy psychological thriller from the best-selling author of The Visitors and Make Her Pay.
What readers are saying about Violets Are Blue:
“…steamy, scary, loving, and a whole lot more! …kept me reading and on my toes, not wanting to miss anything.” -Booksprout Reviewer
“Clever, twisty and spicy. …brave, brilliantly executed… that signature twist was present, and this one was deliciously dark and sinister.” -Carrie Reads Them All
“…so well written that I could not put it down.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…equally suspenseful and disturbing with a few jaw-dropping twists.” -Goodreads Reviewer
“The mystery was good and it was fun to try and figure out who the villain was. The ending was diabolical, I loved it!!” -Netgalley Reviewer
“So many red herrings with the cast of neighbours and I really got a lot wrong. I love all of Miranda Rijks’ books but I think this was my favourite. This is one not to be missed.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…sure to be a fan fave! It was equally suspenseful and disturbing with a few jaw-dropping twists.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…dark, suspenseful and unputdownable.” -Goodreads Reviewer
After a bitter divorce, criminal solicitor Laila moves to idyllic Violet Lane where she quickly falls for Max—her charming, piano-playing neighbor. They begin a wildly passionate affair and Laila feels she is really starting to live again.
But the tranquility of this close-knit community is shattered when Jackie, a young mother from across the street, goes missing. Her husband is the chief suspect and Laila agrees to act as his lawyer.
As she investigates Jackie’s disappearance, Laila discovers that this quiet street hides deadly secrets, and someone is watching her every move. Anonymous threats pull her ever deeper into a twisted web of deception.
Meanwhile, her intense relationship with Max is starting to feel like a runaway train. And Laila begins to wonder if her gorgeous new man may have a hidden dark side.
She desperately needs to uncover the truth. And when she does, Laila realises that she’s put herself in terrible danger, that she may lose everything – including her life.
Violets Are Blue - the dark and steamy psychological thriller from the best-selling author of The Visitors and Make Her Pay.
What readers are saying about Violets Are Blue:
“…steamy, scary, loving, and a whole lot more! …kept me reading and on my toes, not wanting to miss anything.” -Booksprout Reviewer
“Clever, twisty and spicy. …brave, brilliantly executed… that signature twist was present, and this one was deliciously dark and sinister.” -Carrie Reads Them All
“…so well written that I could not put it down.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…equally suspenseful and disturbing with a few jaw-dropping twists.” -Goodreads Reviewer
“The mystery was good and it was fun to try and figure out who the villain was. The ending was diabolical, I loved it!!” -Netgalley Reviewer
“So many red herrings with the cast of neighbours and I really got a lot wrong. I love all of Miranda Rijks’ books but I think this was my favourite. This is one not to be missed.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…sure to be a fan fave! It was equally suspenseful and disturbing with a few jaw-dropping twists.” -Netgalley Reviewer
“…dark, suspenseful and unputdownable.” -Goodreads Reviewer
276 pages, Hardcover
First published April 6, 2025
1168 people are currently reading
1153 people want to read
About the author
Miranda Rijks
42 books889 followersMiranda Rijks is the author of 26 psychological thrillers, many of which have been Amazon bestsellers. She lives in Sussex, England with her Dutch husband and black Labrador.
Her fast-paced, twisty thrillers are inspired by scary things that have happened to her or places she has visited.
Miranda turned to writing after recovering from Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. She's so grateful that she's now a full-time author and living the dream!
Visit www.mirandarijks.com to get her FREE novella, The Cheat, and the chance to name characters in her books.
Her fast-paced, twisty thrillers are inspired by scary things that have happened to her or places she has visited.
Miranda turned to writing after recovering from Ewing's Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. She's so grateful that she's now a full-time author and living the dream!
Visit www.mirandarijks.com to get her FREE novella, The Cheat, and the chance to name characters in her books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews
March 13, 2025
Miranda Rijks once again delivers a fast-paced unputdownable thriller. It's spicy, sinister and full of shocking twists that I never saw coming. There is a trigger warning for sexual content that is provided by the author. The sex scenes are vital and relevant to the plot and character development. This character-driven thriller is full of shifty characters who make questionable decisions. Laila, the main character, makes countless decisions that are contentious. I was constantly second-guessing who I thought was a villain and who I thought was a victim. Needless to say, this thriller kept me on my toes while being surprised by the numerous twists and turns. I enjoyed every sultry, suspenseful minute. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Thank you, Booksprout and Inkubator Books for my copy.
April 9, 2025
Well. Miranda, that was certainly different!!
I do enjoy this authors books, always a fast paced thrill ride and Violets are Blue was no different in that respect. No, this was one steamy read, with lots of scenes that appear in books that I don’t normally read. It was super spicy and intense but all in context with the story. It will make you blush 😳
Lalia has moved to Violet Lane for a new start. Her divorce is final at last and she is looking forward to her new life in the lane. She has a new job in town working as a criminal lawyer and is still close to her best friend. She soon finds herself embroiled in a hot affair with the gorgeous next door neighbour, Max. Things are full in from the start and she is happy. That is until a local woman from the lane goes missing and the finger seems to be pointed at her new boyfriend.
As always. Miranda had me turning those pages so fast to find out what would happen. Could Max be trusted? My opinion changed so many times. I did get frustrated with Laila with how fast she jumped into bed with him, fresh from her divorce and wanting a quiet life. But, if he was and handsome and persistent as he was portrayed then who could blame her 🤣
Another fun, twisty and addictive story. Publishing on April 6th. Thanks to Miranda for having me in her ARC team, always a pleasure.
I do enjoy this authors books, always a fast paced thrill ride and Violets are Blue was no different in that respect. No, this was one steamy read, with lots of scenes that appear in books that I don’t normally read. It was super spicy and intense but all in context with the story. It will make you blush 😳
Lalia has moved to Violet Lane for a new start. Her divorce is final at last and she is looking forward to her new life in the lane. She has a new job in town working as a criminal lawyer and is still close to her best friend. She soon finds herself embroiled in a hot affair with the gorgeous next door neighbour, Max. Things are full in from the start and she is happy. That is until a local woman from the lane goes missing and the finger seems to be pointed at her new boyfriend.
As always. Miranda had me turning those pages so fast to find out what would happen. Could Max be trusted? My opinion changed so many times. I did get frustrated with Laila with how fast she jumped into bed with him, fresh from her divorce and wanting a quiet life. But, if he was and handsome and persistent as he was portrayed then who could blame her 🤣
Another fun, twisty and addictive story. Publishing on April 6th. Thanks to Miranda for having me in her ARC team, always a pleasure.
April 24, 2025
Great domestic thriller with a sketchy neighborhood. All of my favorite things. Violets Are Blue was very fast paced and kept me engaged the entire time. This was more of romantic suspense than I had realized it would be but it did not bother me but I think it is important for readers going in to know that it is. The final twist got me in the end and totally threw me for a loop. This one was dark and twisted.
If you enjoy twisty domestic thrillers I highly recommend this author. This is my second book by Miranda Rijks and it did not disappoint.
If you enjoy twisty domestic thrillers I highly recommend this author. This is my second book by Miranda Rijks and it did not disappoint.
March 17, 2025
Another great thriller with a surprise ending (it was a surprise to me!) by Miranda Rijks. I love all her books. If you want a book you can’t put down, this is it! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this advance copy. To be published April 6, 2025.
June 24, 2025
3.5⭐️
March 14, 2025
Wow! Miranda Rijk's latest novel is a spicy thrill ride! If you're not a fan of the typical sappy romance, fear not—you’re in for a treat.
"Violets are Blue" follows Laila, newly divorced. She settles into a quaint house in a peaceful neighborhood, ready to let her heart heal. Everything changes when she meets her neighbor, Max. He’s a paramedic, he plays the piano, and he’s irresistibly handsome. He sounds hot! Despite her reservations, she finds herself drawn to him, unable to resist their electric chemistry. He’s stirring up feelings she thought she had put on hold, and he seems almost too perfect.
But tranquility turns into chaos. When Jackie, a neighbor across the street, goes missing, her husband becomes the prime suspect. Laila takes on the role of his lawyer, but as she digs into the investigation, she’s tangled up in a complex web. Mysterious threats begin to surface, drawing her even further into the chaos. As her connection with Max deepens, Laila starts to feel trapped. His stories are increasingly questionable. How well does she know him?
This tantalizing tale is unlike anything I’ve read from Miranda before, filled with suspense and unexpected twists that make it impossible to put down!
Thanks to Miranda Rijks and Inkubator Books for providing this ARC through Bookfunnel. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily.
#VioletsareBlue #MirandaRijks #InkubatorBooks #Bookfunnel #ARC #capcut #lefttoread #reader #read #honestreview #thriller #bookreviewer #thrillerbooklovers #thepulse #thrillerfriendsunite #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #lovetoread #lovebooks #booknerd #readaholic #bookstagrammer #booktok #bookish
"Violets are Blue" follows Laila, newly divorced. She settles into a quaint house in a peaceful neighborhood, ready to let her heart heal. Everything changes when she meets her neighbor, Max. He’s a paramedic, he plays the piano, and he’s irresistibly handsome. He sounds hot! Despite her reservations, she finds herself drawn to him, unable to resist their electric chemistry. He’s stirring up feelings she thought she had put on hold, and he seems almost too perfect.
But tranquility turns into chaos. When Jackie, a neighbor across the street, goes missing, her husband becomes the prime suspect. Laila takes on the role of his lawyer, but as she digs into the investigation, she’s tangled up in a complex web. Mysterious threats begin to surface, drawing her even further into the chaos. As her connection with Max deepens, Laila starts to feel trapped. His stories are increasingly questionable. How well does she know him?
This tantalizing tale is unlike anything I’ve read from Miranda before, filled with suspense and unexpected twists that make it impossible to put down!
Thanks to Miranda Rijks and Inkubator Books for providing this ARC through Bookfunnel. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily.
#VioletsareBlue #MirandaRijks #InkubatorBooks #Bookfunnel #ARC #capcut #lefttoread #reader #read #honestreview #thriller #bookreviewer #thrillerbooklovers #thepulse #thrillerfriendsunite #thrillerobsessedbookishclub #lovetoread #lovebooks #booknerd #readaholic #bookstagrammer #booktok #bookish
December 8, 2025
this was really gripping,
addictive and well written
but too conventional and
unnecessarily sexual for
my taste in thrillers. ;)
addictive and well written
but too conventional and
unnecessarily sexual for
my taste in thrillers. ;)
March 15, 2025
Likable characters, lots of suspense, a little spicy, definitely thrilling and plenty of suspicion to go around. This book was nearly impossible to put down. A fantastic read!
May 11, 2025
This is my third book by this author and will sadly be my last. There just always seems to be something missing and they are verging on a little boring
April 21, 2025
Miranda writes juicy addictive bingeable books and Violets Are Blue is in her signature style.
This one has a bit of steam but it was well done, perfectly placed and necessary to the story.
There were some good twists that were well executed.
I will definitely be first in line for her next book.
This one has a bit of steam but it was well done, perfectly placed and necessary to the story.
There were some good twists that were well executed.
I will definitely be first in line for her next book.
March 23, 2025
If you think you know suspense, think again! Violets Are Blue is a high-voltage thriller that will leave your heart racing and your mind reeling. Imagine stepping into a picture-perfect neighborhood, only to have its secrets explode like a thunderstorm. That’s exactly what awaits you on Violet Lane.
Laila is desperate for a fresh start, and Max, her devilishly charming neighbor, seems to be the answer to her prayers. But just as their chemistry reaches its peak, a young mother’s disappearance casts an ominous shadow. The twists come thick and fast, and with every revelation, you’ll find yourself questioning everyone’s motives—even your own instincts.
Miranda doesn’t just write thrillers—she orchestrates them, pushing every nerve to its breaking point. The tension is so sharp, you’ll feel it in your bones. And that ending? A knockout punch you’ll never see coming.
Brace yourself, because Violets Are Blue is electrifying, unrelenting, and utterly unforgettable. Do you dare to uncover the secrets of Violet Lane?
April 9, 2025
Thank you to @mirandarijksauthor @booksprout and @inkubatorbooks for the digital copy to review.
Oh I loved this one, it was a little different than her normal books as there was some spice in here, ok maybe more than a little, but it fit the story, and was done well so I did not mind one bit! This was a creepy fast paced domestic thriller with all kinds of suspense that had me guessing until the very end. I read this in a day, I could not put it down and I enjoyed it all the way through.
Oh I loved this one, it was a little different than her normal books as there was some spice in here, ok maybe more than a little, but it fit the story, and was done well so I did not mind one bit! This was a creepy fast paced domestic thriller with all kinds of suspense that had me guessing until the very end. I read this in a day, I could not put it down and I enjoyed it all the way through.
April 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It was a great idea for a story. If things are too good to be true then they most definitely are! It's a great moral. I loved the small town Sussex setting!
The book is perfectly written and flowed well enough. There were no plot holes or unanswered questions. Don't be put off by the fact there are stream scenes. They're very few and not overly graphic!
I liked the characters in the book. Laila was an intelligent lady and definitely did everything she could to keep her wits about her. Max is odd. He was very forward. I felt sorry for Finn, Jackie and Phyllis. Ludwig the Labrador was the best character even though he wasn't in it all that much.
The book is written in first person from Laila's point of view. It worked very well for the book as we got to live the story through her.
I highly recommend this book to all of you!
The book is perfectly written and flowed well enough. There were no plot holes or unanswered questions. Don't be put off by the fact there are stream scenes. They're very few and not overly graphic!
I liked the characters in the book. Laila was an intelligent lady and definitely did everything she could to keep her wits about her. Max is odd. He was very forward. I felt sorry for Finn, Jackie and Phyllis. Ludwig the Labrador was the best character even though he wasn't in it all that much.
The book is written in first person from Laila's point of view. It worked very well for the book as we got to live the story through her.
I highly recommend this book to all of you!
March 23, 2025
Always trust your gut. If something seems too good to be true, chances are it probably is.
This fast-paced, spicy thriller follows a middle-aged woman who has just bought her first house after a messy divorce. She moves into a small town where the neighbours appear to be very friendly and welcoming. However, are things truly as idyllic as they seem?
She suddenly falls for the hot, single man next door. But then, a neighbour is found murdered, and the neighbourhood is turned upside down. Strange things start happening, and she begins to wonder if the hot neighbour is as good as he seems. Is her life about to change for the worse?
This fast-paced, spicy thriller follows a middle-aged woman who has just bought her first house after a messy divorce. She moves into a small town where the neighbours appear to be very friendly and welcoming. However, are things truly as idyllic as they seem?
She suddenly falls for the hot, single man next door. But then, a neighbour is found murdered, and the neighbourhood is turned upside down. Strange things start happening, and she begins to wonder if the hot neighbour is as good as he seems. Is her life about to change for the worse?
April 12, 2025
Laila has just got through a terrible divorce. She moves to Violet Lane, and it seems like a great choice. She begins working in a new law firm and meets her neighbors, including Max, her next door neighbor. He’s handsome, plays the piano, and is a paramedic. They begin a passionate affair which turns into much more. Things are great. Until a neighbor goes missing. Now this once quiet street reveals all the secrets its been hiding. Laila starts to question who Max really is, and fears for her life as she begins receiving threats.
This book felt a little different for Rijks, but still a fantastic one! This is a thriller with a little romance and spice thrown in there, so definitely two genres that I love to read together. I really enjoy Rijks’ writing style. It flows so nicely, your attention is grabbed, the suspense builds up until there is an explosion of action and reveal. It’s really done very artfully!
While I had a slight suspicion as to who the suspect was regarding Jackie, I was thrown off time and time again. So really, I didn’t know for sure, and I kept questioning it. But then the twist at the end!!! I DID NOT see that coming at all!!!! I really loved Laila as a character. She was a true character and didn’t try to investigate things herself. She received letters, she brought them to the police, like a sensible person. I don’t know how many times in other books I want to scream at characters “go to the police!”
This is fast paced and a quick read. It’s out now so go get your copy!
This book felt a little different for Rijks, but still a fantastic one! This is a thriller with a little romance and spice thrown in there, so definitely two genres that I love to read together. I really enjoy Rijks’ writing style. It flows so nicely, your attention is grabbed, the suspense builds up until there is an explosion of action and reveal. It’s really done very artfully!
While I had a slight suspicion as to who the suspect was regarding Jackie, I was thrown off time and time again. So really, I didn’t know for sure, and I kept questioning it. But then the twist at the end!!! I DID NOT see that coming at all!!!! I really loved Laila as a character. She was a true character and didn’t try to investigate things herself. She received letters, she brought them to the police, like a sensible person. I don’t know how many times in other books I want to scream at characters “go to the police!”
This is fast paced and a quick read. It’s out now so go get your copy!
May 2, 2025
Violets Are Blue is a gripping, spicy psychological popcorn thriller that was completely and utterly unputdownable. As soon as I started it, I knew this was going to be a one sitting read. The storyline just grabbed me right off the bat, the pacing was fast and consistent without any dull moments. Keep in mind that yes this is a thriller but it is also surprisingly pretty spicy. It fit the storyline and was definitely necessary to it, so I didn't mind it one bit.
The plot moved quickly without any added fluff or slow moments, which really helped to keep me completely hooked to it. Rijks does a great job at making you question everyone, on making you go back and forth on your decisions constantly and I loved that. The twists and turns were great, placed at the right moment, the suspense was constantly building and kept me on my toes. I might've guessed one of the big twists but honestly it didn't hinder my enjoyment of the book!
Overall, this was a great popcorn thriller that I couldn't put down. An interesting and gripping storyline with some questionable characters. Perfect if you're looking for a one sitting bingeable thriller !
✨️Thank you to @mirandarijks for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The plot moved quickly without any added fluff or slow moments, which really helped to keep me completely hooked to it. Rijks does a great job at making you question everyone, on making you go back and forth on your decisions constantly and I loved that. The twists and turns were great, placed at the right moment, the suspense was constantly building and kept me on my toes. I might've guessed one of the big twists but honestly it didn't hinder my enjoyment of the book!
Overall, this was a great popcorn thriller that I couldn't put down. An interesting and gripping storyline with some questionable characters. Perfect if you're looking for a one sitting bingeable thriller !
✨️Thank you to @mirandarijks for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2025
Miranda Rijks has done it again! What a fantastic story with lots of spice thrown in for good measure. After her divorce, Laila starts afresh with a new home, a new job, and a new love life. But when a local woman goes missing, she finds herself mixed up in a tangled web. Pick this one up today! It’ll keep you guessing and wanting to read to the end to discover who the villain is in this delicious tale.
May 25, 2025
Shocking twists; riveting mystery. I was so invested in finding out who the culprit was, and I thought I had a good idea, but I was wrong. Nothing in this story was what it seemed.
June 19, 2025
I just read this book at random as it was a suggested next read and I really enjoyed it! Lil bit of spice and a great twist!
August 22, 2025
A quick affair, questions about the man she falls for too quickly. Very spicy
April 10, 2025
Review
Another fast paced book from Miranda. This book has a tiny bit of spice peppered through the pages and it was a fun addition.
I flew through this book and couldn't put it down, I was pleased for a day off work to binge read.
As with all of Miranda’s books I've been fortunate enough to read this is an instant 5⭐️ read, I just needed to know more. Absolutely brilliant.
Another fast paced book from Miranda. This book has a tiny bit of spice peppered through the pages and it was a fun addition.
I flew through this book and couldn't put it down, I was pleased for a day off work to binge read.
As with all of Miranda’s books I've been fortunate enough to read this is an instant 5⭐️ read, I just needed to know more. Absolutely brilliant.
March 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Another brilliantly addictive psychological thriller from Miranda. She warned me it had explicit s*x scenes it in, something different to her normal books but honestly they weren't too graphic. Not compared to some books I've read!
I'll admit, I did guess the majority of the twists but it didn't full my interest in reading. I really enjoyed reading this book even though I could have screamed at the MC for making such bad decisions!
Another brilliantly addictive psychological thriller from Miranda. She warned me it had explicit s*x scenes it in, something different to her normal books but honestly they weren't too graphic. Not compared to some books I've read!
I'll admit, I did guess the majority of the twists but it didn't full my interest in reading. I really enjoyed reading this book even though I could have screamed at the MC for making such bad decisions!
April 26, 2025
Her perfect home. Her perfect man. How wrong can she be...?
Well...that was different. I love Miranda's books with her fast-paced thrill-rides-a-minute and this was no different in that respect. But what did I just read? Lots of steamy sex scenes (granted, the author did warn us of the fact beforehand) but honestly did that turn the main character's brain to mush in the process?
Laila has just gone through a long drawn out divorce with ex-husband Jacob and has moved to Violet Lane for a fresh start. As a criminal lawyer working in the same firm as her ex, Laila had to leave her job and start afresh at a local firm where she is made more than welcome. She's barely unpacked the boxes when she receives an invitation to a BBQ to welcome her to the Lane at neighbour Phyllis' house on the weekend - the last thing she feels like doing. But she makes the effort and meets the rest of her neighbours.
When she first sees Max standing at the BBQ, a static of electricity runs through her. His eyes meets hers and she feels it again. It isn't long before her thoughts keep returning to the hunky paramedic next door watching him mow his lawn without a shirt, his muscles rippling.
Then Max comes knocking and it isn't long before Laila finds herself embroiled in a steamy affair with the gorgeous Adonis that is Max. She knows nothing about him but could trace every line of his stunning body. And the way he makes her feel sends her weak at the knees. Everything about him is perfect, and she soon finds herself falling for him.
But the tranquility of their little street soon turns into chaos when Laila returns home one day to find the place crawling with police. Young mother Jackie has gone missing and though her husband seems to be the police's prime suspect it isn't long before the finger is pointed in her new boyfriend's direction. Just how well does she really know Max?
In a long line of bad decisions, Laila makes another as she takes on the role as Finn's lawyer thus further tangling her in the complex web. Then threats are made towards her and her life placed in danger, thrusting her even closer to Max when she is beginning to question everything she thought she knew about him. Laila feels trapped and doesn't know who or what to believe.
It's hardly surprising. Laila has seemingly followed bad decisions with even worse ones since moving into Violet Lane. There were plenty of eye-rolling moments as I shook my head every time Laila opened her mouth or followed through with yet another bad decision. She was so blinded by sex that not even Ludwig's dislike of Max registered with her. But as soon as I saw his reaction, I knew he wasn't to be trusted. I just didn't like him. He made my skin crawl. But is he a killer? And can he really be trusted?
Not one of Miranda's better thrillers, it was readable with plenty of eye-rolling moments and a quick enough read that I did so in a few hours.
I would like to thank #MirandaRijks, #Netgalley and #InkubatorBooks for an ARC of #VioletsAreBlue in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Well...that was different. I love Miranda's books with her fast-paced thrill-rides-a-minute and this was no different in that respect. But what did I just read? Lots of steamy sex scenes (granted, the author did warn us of the fact beforehand) but honestly did that turn the main character's brain to mush in the process?
Laila has just gone through a long drawn out divorce with ex-husband Jacob and has moved to Violet Lane for a fresh start. As a criminal lawyer working in the same firm as her ex, Laila had to leave her job and start afresh at a local firm where she is made more than welcome. She's barely unpacked the boxes when she receives an invitation to a BBQ to welcome her to the Lane at neighbour Phyllis' house on the weekend - the last thing she feels like doing. But she makes the effort and meets the rest of her neighbours.
When she first sees Max standing at the BBQ, a static of electricity runs through her. His eyes meets hers and she feels it again. It isn't long before her thoughts keep returning to the hunky paramedic next door watching him mow his lawn without a shirt, his muscles rippling.
Then Max comes knocking and it isn't long before Laila finds herself embroiled in a steamy affair with the gorgeous Adonis that is Max. She knows nothing about him but could trace every line of his stunning body. And the way he makes her feel sends her weak at the knees. Everything about him is perfect, and she soon finds herself falling for him.
But the tranquility of their little street soon turns into chaos when Laila returns home one day to find the place crawling with police. Young mother Jackie has gone missing and though her husband seems to be the police's prime suspect it isn't long before the finger is pointed in her new boyfriend's direction. Just how well does she really know Max?
In a long line of bad decisions, Laila makes another as she takes on the role as Finn's lawyer thus further tangling her in the complex web. Then threats are made towards her and her life placed in danger, thrusting her even closer to Max when she is beginning to question everything she thought she knew about him. Laila feels trapped and doesn't know who or what to believe.
It's hardly surprising. Laila has seemingly followed bad decisions with even worse ones since moving into Violet Lane. There were plenty of eye-rolling moments as I shook my head every time Laila opened her mouth or followed through with yet another bad decision. She was so blinded by sex that not even Ludwig's dislike of Max registered with her. But as soon as I saw his reaction, I knew he wasn't to be trusted. I just didn't like him. He made my skin crawl. But is he a killer? And can he really be trusted?
Not one of Miranda's better thrillers, it was readable with plenty of eye-rolling moments and a quick enough read that I did so in a few hours.
I would like to thank #MirandaRijks, #Netgalley and #InkubatorBooks for an ARC of #VioletsAreBlue in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
January 5, 2026
Ehh. This was alright. I have a couple thoughts, though.
1. If Max has been accused of first having an affair with the missing/dead woman, THEN accused of being her killer - why aren't the police crawling all over him? Why has Laila never once seen a policeman confront him in any way? It's not until weeks later, after he's accused of another separate crime, that they even TRY to pin Jackie's death on him. Why? They literally found his DNA on Jackie's body - so why weren't they beating his door down after they released her husband from jail?
2. And how is it all the people on this street begin by admiring Max and saying good things about him, and then, inexplicably, they all suddenly have a problem with him, scowling and threatening to hit him and muttering under their breath about him, etc.? This change happens OVERNIGHT and with zero valid reason.
3. AND, how did nobody figure out that Laila and Max were seeing each other LONG before the neighbor woman caught them together in his bedroom? They're constantly with each other - constantly going out, she's met his friends in this town that feels too small for secrets - and nobody knows about them at all until a neighbor spies them through her window halfway through the book.
THEN everybody knows. Even her ex-husband who's barely in the picture. Who the hell told HIM of all people?!
4. The end of this book - while all very dramatic, was entirely preventable, if only our FMC wasn't a complete dumbass.
I suspect someone's a murderer - yes, of course it's logical to go to his house ALONE for tea. Perfect idea.
THEN when he grabs me and I clock him over the head with a sauce pan, it's the BEST IDEA EVER to just...stay in his house and conversate with the woman who's been living with him for the whole book, as if she wouldn't be in on it. Drinking tea she's made for me.
Survival skills of a gnat, I swear to god.
5. And the fact that the real killer (who I clocked about 30% of the way through), kills people they totally didn't need to...for no good reason. They say it's in an effort to frame Max - but Max's DNA was already on Jackie's body...he should already have been a prime suspect!
I dunno, man. The pieces were all there - but they were all put together wrong. Not enough work to actually make much of this as believable as I wanted it to be.
6. The other stuff going on - which is really background noise until the very end of the story - was also easy to figure out. Like why else are we even mentioning these other random, seemingly unrelated crimes, unless someone close to the MC is involved?
What I can't get my head around is why, if Laila never truly felt comfortable around Max did she friggin' MARRY the guy? Girl's real good at ignoring those gut instincts.
Anyway - I do think Max was written well for the kind of person he was. It felt accurate, and that's why I'm not overly upset at how Laila let herself get into such a serious relationship with him by the end of the story. I think Rijks did a good job making us feel uncomfortable around Max, but in so doing, sort of failed at the misdirection you need to have in this kind of story.
While I think this is a solid addition to the genre, I think with a little more careful reworking, this book could have been phenomenal.
1. If Max has been accused of first having an affair with the missing/dead woman, THEN accused of being her killer - why aren't the police crawling all over him? Why has Laila never once seen a policeman confront him in any way? It's not until weeks later, after he's accused of another separate crime, that they even TRY to pin Jackie's death on him. Why? They literally found his DNA on Jackie's body - so why weren't they beating his door down after they released her husband from jail?
2. And how is it all the people on this street begin by admiring Max and saying good things about him, and then, inexplicably, they all suddenly have a problem with him, scowling and threatening to hit him and muttering under their breath about him, etc.? This change happens OVERNIGHT and with zero valid reason.
3. AND, how did nobody figure out that Laila and Max were seeing each other LONG before the neighbor woman caught them together in his bedroom? They're constantly with each other - constantly going out, she's met his friends in this town that feels too small for secrets - and nobody knows about them at all until a neighbor spies them through her window halfway through the book.
THEN everybody knows. Even her ex-husband who's barely in the picture. Who the hell told HIM of all people?!
4. The end of this book - while all very dramatic, was entirely preventable, if only our FMC wasn't a complete dumbass.
I suspect someone's a murderer - yes, of course it's logical to go to his house ALONE for tea. Perfect idea.
THEN when he grabs me and I clock him over the head with a sauce pan, it's the BEST IDEA EVER to just...stay in his house and conversate with the woman who's been living with him for the whole book, as if she wouldn't be in on it. Drinking tea she's made for me.
Survival skills of a gnat, I swear to god.
5. And the fact that the real killer (who I clocked about 30% of the way through), kills people they totally didn't need to...for no good reason. They say it's in an effort to frame Max - but Max's DNA was already on Jackie's body...he should already have been a prime suspect!
I dunno, man. The pieces were all there - but they were all put together wrong. Not enough work to actually make much of this as believable as I wanted it to be.
6. The other stuff going on - which is really background noise until the very end of the story - was also easy to figure out. Like why else are we even mentioning these other random, seemingly unrelated crimes, unless someone close to the MC is involved?
What I can't get my head around is why, if Laila never truly felt comfortable around Max did she friggin' MARRY the guy? Girl's real good at ignoring those gut instincts.
Anyway - I do think Max was written well for the kind of person he was. It felt accurate, and that's why I'm not overly upset at how Laila let herself get into such a serious relationship with him by the end of the story. I think Rijks did a good job making us feel uncomfortable around Max, but in so doing, sort of failed at the misdirection you need to have in this kind of story.
While I think this is a solid addition to the genre, I think with a little more careful reworking, this book could have been phenomenal.
March 4, 2025
𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕-𝒊𝒇𝒔 𝒈𝒐 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒅, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒃𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝑽𝒊𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝑳𝒂𝒏𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒎𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆.
After an acrimonious divorce, criminal solicitor Laila is starting over at nearly 40. She leaves the law firm she worked at with her ex-husband, and because she left the house when she caught him in bed with someone else, she is also looking for a new home. She finds exactly what she's looking for on Violent Lane, a peaceful, close-knit community. The neighbors are quick to welcome her with a barbeque in her honor, and when she lays eyes on neighbor Max, feelings begin to stir within her that she thought were long dormant.
Against her better judgment, she begins a passionate affair with Max. But this bucolic setting turns ominous when the young mother across the street goes missing. As expected, her husband is the primary suspect, and Laila agrees to act as his lawyer. While she's investigating the woman's disappearance, disturbing anonymous notes begin appearing on her doorstep warning her about Max. And when she catches him in some half-truths, her suspicion grows. Who exactly has she been sharing a bed with?
This was Miranda's first attempt at spice in one of her thrillers, and she was kind enough to provide a content warning for those who need it. I thought it was brave, brilliantly executed, and a testament that one's sex life doesn't have to end when a marriage does. As always, that signature twist was present, and this one was deliciously dark and sinister. Thank you so much to the author, Booksprout, and Inkubator Books for the early copy. This title is expected to publish April 6, 2025.
After an acrimonious divorce, criminal solicitor Laila is starting over at nearly 40. She leaves the law firm she worked at with her ex-husband, and because she left the house when she caught him in bed with someone else, she is also looking for a new home. She finds exactly what she's looking for on Violent Lane, a peaceful, close-knit community. The neighbors are quick to welcome her with a barbeque in her honor, and when she lays eyes on neighbor Max, feelings begin to stir within her that she thought were long dormant.
Against her better judgment, she begins a passionate affair with Max. But this bucolic setting turns ominous when the young mother across the street goes missing. As expected, her husband is the primary suspect, and Laila agrees to act as his lawyer. While she's investigating the woman's disappearance, disturbing anonymous notes begin appearing on her doorstep warning her about Max. And when she catches him in some half-truths, her suspicion grows. Who exactly has she been sharing a bed with?
This was Miranda's first attempt at spice in one of her thrillers, and she was kind enough to provide a content warning for those who need it. I thought it was brave, brilliantly executed, and a testament that one's sex life doesn't have to end when a marriage does. As always, that signature twist was present, and this one was deliciously dark and sinister. Thank you so much to the author, Booksprout, and Inkubator Books for the early copy. This title is expected to publish April 6, 2025.
April 8, 2025
4.5 stars!!!
Laila, a criminal solicitor, moves to a picturesque neighborhood and falls for her charming neighbor Max. However, when a young mother goes missing, she begins to uncover dark secrets in the close-knit community. As she investigates, Laila realizes that her passionate relationship with Max may not be what it seems, and she is in danger of losing everything, including her life.
This book took a wild turn faster than a cheetah on Red Bull! I was on the edge of my seat, completely blindsided by the ending and major plot twist. As I flipped through the pages, I couldn't help but suspect everyone in the story - trust no one, am I right?
Laila, the main character, may have been a tad naive, but hey, love can make you do some crazy things. They say love is blind, and in Laila's case, it might as well have been wearing a blindfold. Despite that, she was a total boss - independent, smart, and curious enough to save her own skin when push came to shove.
The cozy cul-de-sac setting may seem safe and snug, but don't be fooled - nothing is as it appears in this book. The plot was cleverly crafted and executed flawlessly, keeping me glued to the pages like a magnet. I devoured this book in a single day, unable to flip through the twists and turns fast enough.
If you're a fan of playing detective, unraveling deceit, and uncovering deep, dark secrets, this book is must-read. I'll admit, it sparked a whole new level of paranoia in me - you never know what secrets people are hiding behind their smiles. Trust me, you won't be able to put this book down!
Thank you, Booksprout and Inkubator Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Laila, a criminal solicitor, moves to a picturesque neighborhood and falls for her charming neighbor Max. However, when a young mother goes missing, she begins to uncover dark secrets in the close-knit community. As she investigates, Laila realizes that her passionate relationship with Max may not be what it seems, and she is in danger of losing everything, including her life.
This book took a wild turn faster than a cheetah on Red Bull! I was on the edge of my seat, completely blindsided by the ending and major plot twist. As I flipped through the pages, I couldn't help but suspect everyone in the story - trust no one, am I right?
Laila, the main character, may have been a tad naive, but hey, love can make you do some crazy things. They say love is blind, and in Laila's case, it might as well have been wearing a blindfold. Despite that, she was a total boss - independent, smart, and curious enough to save her own skin when push came to shove.
The cozy cul-de-sac setting may seem safe and snug, but don't be fooled - nothing is as it appears in this book. The plot was cleverly crafted and executed flawlessly, keeping me glued to the pages like a magnet. I devoured this book in a single day, unable to flip through the twists and turns fast enough.
If you're a fan of playing detective, unraveling deceit, and uncovering deep, dark secrets, this book is must-read. I'll admit, it sparked a whole new level of paranoia in me - you never know what secrets people are hiding behind their smiles. Trust me, you won't be able to put this book down!
Thank you, Booksprout and Inkubator Books, for the digital ARC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 3, 2025
Laila is a criminal attorney who has moved into a small neighborhood after a bitter divorce. She's almost immediately invited to a neighbor's for drinks and a BBQ where she meets her charming neighbor Max. A whirlwind romance ensues, there's a murder in the neighborhood, and soon Laila is right in the middle when she is called to represent the suspect. And can we talk about the dog, Ludwig? A victim of Laila's divorce, she only gets to see him occasionally, but he gets a starring role!
Miranda Rijks is an auto-buy for me. I thought this was a fun and fast-paced story with a bit of spice that turns out to be integral to the plot.
Thanks to Inkubator Books and BookSprouts for an advance reader's copy.
Miranda Rijks is an auto-buy for me. I thought this was a fun and fast-paced story with a bit of spice that turns out to be integral to the plot.
Thanks to Inkubator Books and BookSprouts for an advance reader's copy.
April 6, 2025
Miranda Rijks' latest book, "Violets Are Blue," follows Laila, a woman seeking a fresh start after a painful divorce, as she relocates to the seemingly charming Violet Lane. Here, she finds solace and even love with her attractive neighbour, Max.
However, this tranquility is shattered when Jackie, another neighbour, mysteriously disappears.
As deadly secrets begin to surface, Laila's newfound sense of security crumbles, replaced by a growing unease and the chilling realization that she may not be safe, even within the walls of her own home.
Miranda has crafted a gripping read with some added spice and I was left questioning the motives of everyone on Violet Lane and eagerly anticipating the unraveling of the dark secrets that lie buried beneath its picturesque surface. I really was not expecting the final twist either!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
However, this tranquility is shattered when Jackie, another neighbour, mysteriously disappears.
As deadly secrets begin to surface, Laila's newfound sense of security crumbles, replaced by a growing unease and the chilling realization that she may not be safe, even within the walls of her own home.
Miranda has crafted a gripping read with some added spice and I was left questioning the motives of everyone on Violet Lane and eagerly anticipating the unraveling of the dark secrets that lie buried beneath its picturesque surface. I really was not expecting the final twist either!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2025
This was such a fun twisty read! Started out as more of a romance which I enjoyed. When Laila moves to Violet Lane after her divorce, she is looking for a fresh start. She then falls for her charming neighbor and that is when all hell breaks loose!
For fans of Freida, this one will be right up your alley!
For fans of Freida, this one will be right up your alley!
December 10, 2025
Well, that was a roller coaster of actions damn
I had so much fun with this book, and it really keeps you guessing, and nothing of what i guessed was right lol.
I did have some moments where i was yelling at the characters for some dumb decisions, but i enjoyed it alot and really flew through it, it was such a page turner.
I had so much fun with this book, and it really keeps you guessing, and nothing of what i guessed was right lol.
I did have some moments where i was yelling at the characters for some dumb decisions, but i enjoyed it alot and really flew through it, it was such a page turner.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 176 reviews