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Wreck Your Heart
From award-winning author Lori Rader-Day, Wreck Your Heart is an engaging, “wisecracking and wonderful” crime novel with a big heart, about a country and midwestern singer out to catch her big break before family—or murder—wrecks everything.
Dahlia “Doll” Devine had the kind of hardscrabble beginning that could launch a thousand broken-hearted country songs, but now she’s the star of her own stage at McPhee’s Tavern. As part of Chicago’s—yes, Chicago’s—country music scene, Dahlia is an up-and-coming singer in spangles and boots of classic country tunes. Up and coming, that is, until her boyfriend Joey up and went, taking the rent money with him.
So Dahlia is back to square one, relying on Alex McPhee—again. Alex helped her out of a bad situation when she was a kid living rough with her mother. Now he’s part landlord, part band booster, all-around rescuer. It’s just that Dahlia wishes she didn’t keep giving him reasons to have to do it.
Just as Dahlia suspects she’s scraped rock bottom, the mother she hasn’t spoken to in twenty years shows up with something to say. The next morning, a distraught young woman arrives at the bar, asking after her missing mother—Dahlia's mother, too, even if the missing suburban PTA mom the girl describes sounds pretty different from the one who let Dahlia down all those years ago.
Though no one is using the word sister any time soon, Dahlia lets herself be drawn into reuniting the family that might have been hers. But when a body is discovered outside McPhee’s Tavern, the crime threatens not just the place Dahlia has made into a home, but everything she’s believed about her past, her dreams for the future, and the people she was just, maybe, beginning to let into her heart.
Dahlia “Doll” Devine had the kind of hardscrabble beginning that could launch a thousand broken-hearted country songs, but now she’s the star of her own stage at McPhee’s Tavern. As part of Chicago’s—yes, Chicago’s—country music scene, Dahlia is an up-and-coming singer in spangles and boots of classic country tunes. Up and coming, that is, until her boyfriend Joey up and went, taking the rent money with him.
So Dahlia is back to square one, relying on Alex McPhee—again. Alex helped her out of a bad situation when she was a kid living rough with her mother. Now he’s part landlord, part band booster, all-around rescuer. It’s just that Dahlia wishes she didn’t keep giving him reasons to have to do it.
Just as Dahlia suspects she’s scraped rock bottom, the mother she hasn’t spoken to in twenty years shows up with something to say. The next morning, a distraught young woman arrives at the bar, asking after her missing mother—Dahlia's mother, too, even if the missing suburban PTA mom the girl describes sounds pretty different from the one who let Dahlia down all those years ago.
Though no one is using the word sister any time soon, Dahlia lets herself be drawn into reuniting the family that might have been hers. But when a body is discovered outside McPhee’s Tavern, the crime threatens not just the place Dahlia has made into a home, but everything she’s believed about her past, her dreams for the future, and the people she was just, maybe, beginning to let into her heart.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2026
60 people are currently reading
12201 people want to read
About the author
Lori Rader-Day
15 books1,067 followersLORI RADER-DAY is the Edgar Award-nominated, Agatha, Anthony, and Mary Higgins Clark Award-winning author of Wreck Your Heart, The Death of Us, Death at Greenway, The Lucky One, Under a Dark Sky, The Day I Died, Little Pretty Things, and The Black Hour. Lori’s short fiction has appeared in Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine, Time Out Chicago, Good Housekeeping, and others. She lives in Chicago, where she is the co-chair of the mystery reader event Midwest Mystery Conference and teaches creative writing for Northwestern University. She is a former national president of Sisters in Crime. Visit her at LoriRaderDay.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
January 6, 2026
This is a well-written, entertaining, mystery novel. It has a likable, sympathetic female protagonist, murder, an engaging mystery, family drama, wit, a touch of humor, twists and turns, a bit of romance, and a satisfying conclusion. Many thanks to Ms. Rader-Day, NetGalley, and St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, from whom I received an advanced reader copy of this fantastic novel. This is my honest opinion.
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January 7, 2026
Book Riot’s Most Anticipated Books of 2026:
Dahlia “Doll” Devine puts all the pain of her childhood into her country music. Part of Chicago’s country music scene, Doll sings weekly at McPhee's Tavern, owned by her childhood rescuer and quasi-boss Alex McPhee. As an adult, things still aren't easy. After she's evicted from her apartment when her boyfriend absconds with the rent, she has to find a new living space and start over. When her estranged mother Marisa shows up wanting to talk to her, it's the last thing Doll wants. But the very next day, a young woman shows up looking for Marisa, and Doll realizes she has a half-sister. Doll reluctantly helps the woman track her mother down, and soon realizes that things may not have been what they seemed throughout her life. —Elisa Shoenberger
Dahlia “Doll” Devine puts all the pain of her childhood into her country music. Part of Chicago’s country music scene, Doll sings weekly at McPhee's Tavern, owned by her childhood rescuer and quasi-boss Alex McPhee. As an adult, things still aren't easy. After she's evicted from her apartment when her boyfriend absconds with the rent, she has to find a new living space and start over. When her estranged mother Marisa shows up wanting to talk to her, it's the last thing Doll wants. But the very next day, a young woman shows up looking for Marisa, and Doll realizes she has a half-sister. Doll reluctantly helps the woman track her mother down, and soon realizes that things may not have been what they seemed throughout her life. —Elisa Shoenberger
December 8, 2025
This audiobook was a lovely surprise for me to listen to this week. A big thanks to McMillan audio for bringing it across my radar, because this is not an author that I had been familiar with previously. It’s a raucous adventure, with a hot mess, female main character named Dahlia. She’s just been left by her boyfriend Joey of three years, who split with the rent money. She performs regularly at a dive bar on Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago, where she grew up. She hasn’t seen her mother since she was six years old.
She finds the tavern endearing, along with the barflies she all lovingly refers to as Jim. It’s owned by her pseudo father Alex McPhee. Soon there is a dead body, and her mother shows up out of the blue. Not only that but a woman who claims to be her mother‘s daughter, and hence, Dahlia’s half sister comes looking for her the next day.
I’m a big fan of mysteries, and I found this one to be a real breath of fresh air. I loved the setting of downtown Chicago, and the fact that the main character was not a suburban, middle-aged lady. Far from a police procedural, this book is way more country and rock ‘n’ roll. I was genuinely surprised at most of the twists which came at really great intervals. I went into this book with really low expectations, but figured I’d give it a chance because I liked the cover. This may just end up being one of my favorite mysteries this year.
I also thought the audio performance was excellent, I found the narrator to be very engaging and well acted. It was easy to follow on audio.
Thank you again to McMillan audio and NetGalley for the ALC. Book to be published January 5, 2026.
She finds the tavern endearing, along with the barflies she all lovingly refers to as Jim. It’s owned by her pseudo father Alex McPhee. Soon there is a dead body, and her mother shows up out of the blue. Not only that but a woman who claims to be her mother‘s daughter, and hence, Dahlia’s half sister comes looking for her the next day.
I’m a big fan of mysteries, and I found this one to be a real breath of fresh air. I loved the setting of downtown Chicago, and the fact that the main character was not a suburban, middle-aged lady. Far from a police procedural, this book is way more country and rock ‘n’ roll. I was genuinely surprised at most of the twists which came at really great intervals. I went into this book with really low expectations, but figured I’d give it a chance because I liked the cover. This may just end up being one of my favorite mysteries this year.
I also thought the audio performance was excellent, I found the narrator to be very engaging and well acted. It was easy to follow on audio.
Thank you again to McMillan audio and NetGalley for the ALC. Book to be published January 5, 2026.
January 12, 2026
Dahlia Devine, a country singer scraping by on the small stage at McPhee’s Tavern, finds herself back living in the apartment above the bar after her boyfriend disappears with the rent money. As if that blow weren’t enough, her estranged mother, Marisa, suddenly reappears after twenty years. Dahlia wants nothing to do with the woman who abandoned her at six years old, leaving Alex, the tavern’s owner, to raise her. But when Marisa vanishes just as abruptly as she arrived and a younger sister Dahlia never knew existed shows up looking for her Dahlia is pulled into a mystery she can’t ignore.
Wreck Your Heart blends a compelling mystery with Dahlia’s deeply personal journey toward understanding her past. Her abandonment issues and resentment toward Marisa felt painfully real, especially as the truth about Marisa’s relationship with her younger daughter comes to light.
There was a lot to unpack here, but it was an engrossing story. Dahlia was a flawed but likable character, and I cheered her on as she tried to untangle what happened to her mother, what was going on at the bar, and where her missing boyfriend fit into it all. I correctly guessed one twist, but another reveal genuinely surprised me. The finale was a wild, thrilling conclusion that tied everything together in a satisfying ending.
I alternated between an audio and e-copy and can recommend either version. While it took me a bit to get used to her pace, Loren Ezzo captured the essence of Dahlia’s character perfectly!
I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Wreck Your Heart blends a compelling mystery with Dahlia’s deeply personal journey toward understanding her past. Her abandonment issues and resentment toward Marisa felt painfully real, especially as the truth about Marisa’s relationship with her younger daughter comes to light.
There was a lot to unpack here, but it was an engrossing story. Dahlia was a flawed but likable character, and I cheered her on as she tried to untangle what happened to her mother, what was going on at the bar, and where her missing boyfriend fit into it all. I correctly guessed one twist, but another reveal genuinely surprised me. The finale was a wild, thrilling conclusion that tied everything together in a satisfying ending.
I alternated between an audio and e-copy and can recommend either version. While it took me a bit to get used to her pace, Loren Ezzo captured the essence of Dahlia’s character perfectly!
I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.
July 16, 2025
Wow, Wreck Your Heart is exactly what this book did to me. Dahlia Devine is tough and smart and trying to find her self and figure out her place in the world. Her journey is sometimes scary but that’s life. I would follow her and her creator Lori Rader-Day anywhere. Such a well written and incredible story.
November 28, 2025
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Jan. 6, 2025
She’s a little bit country, and a little bit crime fighter. Her entire life, Dahlia Devine has wanted to take over the Chicago country music scene. As the lead singer in an all-girl band, they play every Wednesday night, like clockwork, at McPhee’s Tavern, the bar her guardian, Alex McPhee, owns. When her boyfriend, Joey, leaves Dahlia alone, and without rent money, she ends up back living in the apartment above McPhee’s. While she is working in the bar one night, her estranged mother, Marisa, comes in and, when Dahlia refuses to speak with her, she leaves without a word. That, of course, isn’t the last of it and a few nights later, a young woman comes into the bar looking for Marisa, who disappeared after leaving McPhee’s that night. The woman claims Marisa is her mother, which puts Dahlia in an awkward spot, made only more awkward when the boyfriend she thought was missing is found, dead, behind the dumpster at McPhee’s. Is Marisa actually in danger, or has she just run away? Is Joey’s death and Marisa’s disappearance related and, if so, how and why?
Lori Rader-Day delivers a healthy dose of country, mixed with a murder mystery and a quest for gold, all wrapped up in a plaid package with cowboy boots in her new novel, “Wreck Your Heart”.
“Heart” is well-crafted from the very first page. Clever and unexpected, Rader-Day mixes the country music scene with the hunt for the secret loot of mob boss Al Capone and manages to create a thrilling, page-turning read.
Dahlia is the protagonist, a woman with a tragic upbringing, saved by country music and Alex McPhee, the owner of McPhee’s Tavern, who took over guardianship of Dahlia when she was very young. “Heart” is the story of Dahlia’s quest to find herself and the journey brings with it all of the bittersweet, heart-tugging emotion of a country song.
Joey’s murder and Marisa’s disappearance, are seemingly linked, but the “who-dunnit” of it all is not easy to guess. After engaging twists and turns, “Heart” finds its way to a believable, stunning conclusion, that manages to pull all the loose ends together.
Dahlia is spunky and relatable and she narrates “Heart” as if she is dictating it, addressing readers directly in parts. She is funny and smart and her guardian, Alex, manages to be the star of the book without even meaning to, hiding his neurotypical spice in the shadows, barely saying anything yet making his protective, introverted presence known.
“Heart” caught me completely off guard, as I did not think I would love this novel this much. I adore country music, and this genre of books is definitely on my “must read” list, but I think the book’s cover left me expecting a serious dose of hokey. In this case specifically, it is absolutely wrong to judge “Heart” by its cover. Rader-Day’s novel is refreshing, hilarious and emotional in all the right ways.
Expected publication date: Jan. 6, 2025
She’s a little bit country, and a little bit crime fighter. Her entire life, Dahlia Devine has wanted to take over the Chicago country music scene. As the lead singer in an all-girl band, they play every Wednesday night, like clockwork, at McPhee’s Tavern, the bar her guardian, Alex McPhee, owns. When her boyfriend, Joey, leaves Dahlia alone, and without rent money, she ends up back living in the apartment above McPhee’s. While she is working in the bar one night, her estranged mother, Marisa, comes in and, when Dahlia refuses to speak with her, she leaves without a word. That, of course, isn’t the last of it and a few nights later, a young woman comes into the bar looking for Marisa, who disappeared after leaving McPhee’s that night. The woman claims Marisa is her mother, which puts Dahlia in an awkward spot, made only more awkward when the boyfriend she thought was missing is found, dead, behind the dumpster at McPhee’s. Is Marisa actually in danger, or has she just run away? Is Joey’s death and Marisa’s disappearance related and, if so, how and why?
Lori Rader-Day delivers a healthy dose of country, mixed with a murder mystery and a quest for gold, all wrapped up in a plaid package with cowboy boots in her new novel, “Wreck Your Heart”.
“Heart” is well-crafted from the very first page. Clever and unexpected, Rader-Day mixes the country music scene with the hunt for the secret loot of mob boss Al Capone and manages to create a thrilling, page-turning read.
Dahlia is the protagonist, a woman with a tragic upbringing, saved by country music and Alex McPhee, the owner of McPhee’s Tavern, who took over guardianship of Dahlia when she was very young. “Heart” is the story of Dahlia’s quest to find herself and the journey brings with it all of the bittersweet, heart-tugging emotion of a country song.
Joey’s murder and Marisa’s disappearance, are seemingly linked, but the “who-dunnit” of it all is not easy to guess. After engaging twists and turns, “Heart” finds its way to a believable, stunning conclusion, that manages to pull all the loose ends together.
Dahlia is spunky and relatable and she narrates “Heart” as if she is dictating it, addressing readers directly in parts. She is funny and smart and her guardian, Alex, manages to be the star of the book without even meaning to, hiding his neurotypical spice in the shadows, barely saying anything yet making his protective, introverted presence known.
“Heart” caught me completely off guard, as I did not think I would love this novel this much. I adore country music, and this genre of books is definitely on my “must read” list, but I think the book’s cover left me expecting a serious dose of hokey. In this case specifically, it is absolutely wrong to judge “Heart” by its cover. Rader-Day’s novel is refreshing, hilarious and emotional in all the right ways.
December 15, 2025
The beginning wasn’t hooking me, but about 20% in I got invested, and then the last few chapters lost me. I enjoyed the overall plot but found everyone’s storylines a bit much to keep up with. I also found the main character difficult to root for at times. If the book description intrigues you, I’d say give it a shot. But if this one isn’t on your radar, I wouldn’t tell you to put it there.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC
January 10, 2026
"I guess I understood family, though. Family made itself out of whatever materials it found. Out of scraps, if necessary. Out of strays."
I stayed up well past midnight finishing Wreck Your Heart. I hit the point of no return around 85% and absolutely had to know what happened next. The plot was plotting, the mystery was mystery-ing, and I needed to know that Dahlia—and everyone else—was going to be okay.
I thought the author did an amazing job setting up this story, and I really enjoyed Dahlia as a character. As a product of the foster care system, she carries understandably jaded feelings toward the mother who was unable to care for her. Seeing her suddenly reappear after twenty years was jarring enough, but learning she also had a sister was something Dahlia was completely unprepared for. Even so, I felt her reactions were realistic, and she handled the situation with as much bravado as she could muster given the circumstances.
Dahlia struggles to let people in, whether in friendships or relationships. She prefers to live lightly and keep things carefree, believing that’s safer than risking disappointment or abandonment. Music is her passion and the anchor that’s held her together over the years, and Alex has been a steady presence in her life—one she’s starting to feel conflicted about relying on so heavily. Their dynamic is complicated, but I thought the author handled Alex’s neurospiciness incredibly well. It came through clearly in both his limited dialogue and his actions.
While Wreck Your Heart firmly centers on Dahlia, I also really enjoyed the supporting cast—Sicily, Alex, Oona, and the Jims all stood out. Dahlia herself was deeply relatable: someone who doesn’t fully understand what it means to love or be loved, but who is genuinely trying her best in a world that keeps pushing back against her fiery spirit. Her reactions and realizations felt earned, and I appreciated that she paid attention when things felt off—even if she sometimes had to convince herself to do so.
The twist at the end caught me completely off guard, and I was pleasantly surprised by how everything played out. I did feel the ending was just a bit rushed (a very minor complaint), and I would’ve loved more time spent fleshing out the predicament and how it was resolved. The epilogue was hopeful, but I found myself wanting a little more closure for Dahlia.
Those small things are the only reasons I’m giving this 4.5 stars instead of a full five—but I’ll be rounding it up on Goodreads. Definitely keep this one on your radar this year! (★★★★⋆)
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Any quotes I use are from an unpublished copy and may not reflect the finished product.
I stayed up well past midnight finishing Wreck Your Heart. I hit the point of no return around 85% and absolutely had to know what happened next. The plot was plotting, the mystery was mystery-ing, and I needed to know that Dahlia—and everyone else—was going to be okay.
I thought the author did an amazing job setting up this story, and I really enjoyed Dahlia as a character. As a product of the foster care system, she carries understandably jaded feelings toward the mother who was unable to care for her. Seeing her suddenly reappear after twenty years was jarring enough, but learning she also had a sister was something Dahlia was completely unprepared for. Even so, I felt her reactions were realistic, and she handled the situation with as much bravado as she could muster given the circumstances.
Dahlia struggles to let people in, whether in friendships or relationships. She prefers to live lightly and keep things carefree, believing that’s safer than risking disappointment or abandonment. Music is her passion and the anchor that’s held her together over the years, and Alex has been a steady presence in her life—one she’s starting to feel conflicted about relying on so heavily. Their dynamic is complicated, but I thought the author handled Alex’s neurospiciness incredibly well. It came through clearly in both his limited dialogue and his actions.
While Wreck Your Heart firmly centers on Dahlia, I also really enjoyed the supporting cast—Sicily, Alex, Oona, and the Jims all stood out. Dahlia herself was deeply relatable: someone who doesn’t fully understand what it means to love or be loved, but who is genuinely trying her best in a world that keeps pushing back against her fiery spirit. Her reactions and realizations felt earned, and I appreciated that she paid attention when things felt off—even if she sometimes had to convince herself to do so.
The twist at the end caught me completely off guard, and I was pleasantly surprised by how everything played out. I did feel the ending was just a bit rushed (a very minor complaint), and I would’ve loved more time spent fleshing out the predicament and how it was resolved. The epilogue was hopeful, but I found myself wanting a little more closure for Dahlia.
Those small things are the only reasons I’m giving this 4.5 stars instead of a full five—but I’ll be rounding it up on Goodreads. Definitely keep this one on your radar this year! (★★★★⋆)
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own. Any quotes I use are from an unpublished copy and may not reflect the finished product.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received this ALC from Macmillan Audio and the second I saw the cover, I was in. Like immediate interest. Then I read the synopsis and thought, yep, this is totally my kind of book. I was genuinely excited to jump in.
Now listen… I really wanted to love this one. I did. But for me, it just had way too much going on. There were so many moving parts and situations that I found myself getting confused instead of fully immersed. Some moments also felt a little far fetched, which pulled me out of the story more than once.
That being said, I have to talk about Dahlia because she was hands down my favorite character. She is such a badass. She speaks her mind, doesn’t sugarcoat anything, and I loved watching her grow as the story progressed. Her character development was honestly the highlight for me and kept me pushing through.
If you love mystery books that throw a lot at you and keep you guessing with constant twists and scenarios, I can definitely see you enjoying this. It just wasn’t a perfect fit for me, but I still think it’s worth giving a chance if that sounds like your vibe.
Now listen… I really wanted to love this one. I did. But for me, it just had way too much going on. There were so many moving parts and situations that I found myself getting confused instead of fully immersed. Some moments also felt a little far fetched, which pulled me out of the story more than once.
That being said, I have to talk about Dahlia because she was hands down my favorite character. She is such a badass. She speaks her mind, doesn’t sugarcoat anything, and I loved watching her grow as the story progressed. Her character development was honestly the highlight for me and kept me pushing through.
If you love mystery books that throw a lot at you and keep you guessing with constant twists and scenarios, I can definitely see you enjoying this. It just wasn’t a perfect fit for me, but I still think it’s worth giving a chance if that sounds like your vibe.
February 12, 2026
So when I read the first few chapters of this in the Minotaur Sampler I was unsure how I felt about Dahlia. Like,do I want to root for her? Is she too sorry for herself? Does she create problems for the people around her?
Turns out she's a real badass and even though she's down on her luck when the story starts she is still true to herself.
The mystery aspects of this (yes, aspects, plural) got sort of convoluted but it all comes together by the end. There was a LOT going on in this story but it kept me invested almost the entire time.
The narrator did a fantastic job with this one! The moments heavy with emotions really came through so strongly in the narration! I could feel Dahlia's pain through the telling! Fantastic!
Turns out she's a real badass and even though she's down on her luck when the story starts she is still true to herself.
The mystery aspects of this (yes, aspects, plural) got sort of convoluted but it all comes together by the end. There was a LOT going on in this story but it kept me invested almost the entire time.
The narrator did a fantastic job with this one! The moments heavy with emotions really came through so strongly in the narration! I could feel Dahlia's pain through the telling! Fantastic!
January 21, 2026
Is there any
December 10, 2025
I’ve been sitting with this review for a minute now, but better late then never!
The music sub-genre has gotten me again, and sadly, I’m still not a fan. I think this book had potential, but there were too many story lines to follow that we really lose sight of the original plot. It feels like this could have been separate short stories instead of one book. We get introduced to so many characters as well, but they’re not fully flushed out. I was a little flustered as well when a whole new plot point was added right at the end of the book for no reason. Way too much going on to fully get the point across.
The writing style also really wasn’t for me. The humor felt kind of forced and didn’t strike the landing for me, but more so pulled me out of the book. I think it will work well for others, but I didn’t enjoy it.
I also didn’t really like any of the characters beyond Sicily. She would have been a great main character to follow. The times I really enjoyed reading were when she was on page. She brought a lot to the table and was a good character!
Overall, this wasn’t for me. I think it could really go over well for new mystery readers, but just wasn’t what I was hoping for.
***Huge thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The music sub-genre has gotten me again, and sadly, I’m still not a fan. I think this book had potential, but there were too many story lines to follow that we really lose sight of the original plot. It feels like this could have been separate short stories instead of one book. We get introduced to so many characters as well, but they’re not fully flushed out. I was a little flustered as well when a whole new plot point was added right at the end of the book for no reason. Way too much going on to fully get the point across.
The writing style also really wasn’t for me. The humor felt kind of forced and didn’t strike the landing for me, but more so pulled me out of the book. I think it will work well for others, but I didn’t enjoy it.
I also didn’t really like any of the characters beyond Sicily. She would have been a great main character to follow. The times I really enjoyed reading were when she was on page. She brought a lot to the table and was a good character!
Overall, this wasn’t for me. I think it could really go over well for new mystery readers, but just wasn’t what I was hoping for.
***Huge thank you to NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 6, 2025
This novel is a fascinating look at the world of country music with all its heartaches-=-and murder! "Doll" sings and plays guitar at McPhee's Pub but when patron, Joey is discovered dead, rolled up in rags in the alley, all hell breaks loose as everyone had always liked him. It's a mystery, a family tale that involves blackmail and all sorts of crazy characters!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARX!
November 14, 2025
I ended up DNF'ing this book at 57%. I felt like more should have been happening at this point in the story. I didn't think this story carried enough umph for me to keep going. I had a hard time wanting to come back to this story. I felt like a lof of the same things were happening, and the story really wasn't going anywhere. I wasn't sure if the story was about a missing person (her mother), the mysterious landlord she grew up with, her murdered boyfriend, the weird place next door, her newfound sister, or her problems growing up with an absent addict parent. The plotlines were borderline too many, leaving you feeling unsatisfied with the progression. The humor fell a little short for me, but if the book didn't have a humorous main character, I probably would not have made it this far.
October 31, 2025
It's a character portrait of a broken female country western singer and the challenging life she's led. Add in an engaging mystery and that fab cover and you have a winner!
January 31, 2026
3 stars. This unfortunately didn’t work so great for me. I found Dahlia tough to like, the plot far too confusing and messy and the side characters not interesting enough to carry the story.
Dahlia Devine has been evicted from her apartment because her boyfriend disappeared with their rent money and now she has to rely on her friend and pseudo-dad Alex to get her back on her feet. However when her absentee mother shows up out of the blue and then disappears she has to work with her half sister to track her down.
The mother element confused me the most. It seemed disconnected from everything else and we get a heavy dose of Dahlia and her sister in the first half only to never hear from the sister again in the second half. This book really felt like two plots jammed together to make it work. I did appreciate the effort of showing how the story you buildings your ahead based on someone’s actions may be really far from reality. She does a beautiful job of having Dahlia re examine her childhood memories and having her realize that fundamental assumptions she made were deeply flawed. However it wasn’t enough to make me like this book any more.
Dahlia Devine has been evicted from her apartment because her boyfriend disappeared with their rent money and now she has to rely on her friend and pseudo-dad Alex to get her back on her feet. However when her absentee mother shows up out of the blue and then disappears she has to work with her half sister to track her down.
The mother element confused me the most. It seemed disconnected from everything else and we get a heavy dose of Dahlia and her sister in the first half only to never hear from the sister again in the second half. This book really felt like two plots jammed together to make it work. I did appreciate the effort of showing how the story you buildings your ahead based on someone’s actions may be really far from reality. She does a beautiful job of having Dahlia re examine her childhood memories and having her realize that fundamental assumptions she made were deeply flawed. However it wasn’t enough to make me like this book any more.
January 10, 2026
4.5⭐
An original unconventional female lead for a mystery, Dahlia Devine has hard-knocks kid essentially tattooed on her forehead. Abandoned by her addicted mother, she grew up in and out of foster care with the only constant in her life, Alex McPhee, who provided shelter and a stage to sing when she was out foster care. Now evicted with a missing boyfriend and rent money, she's back crashing above the bar when her mom waltzs back. From there, things go haywire. Slowly she grabs hold of your heart as she searches for missing people, discovers an alleged sibling and then a body as tries to keep her band from breaking up before they can get their big break. Well-plotted and clever mystery but the characters steal the show. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
An original unconventional female lead for a mystery, Dahlia Devine has hard-knocks kid essentially tattooed on her forehead. Abandoned by her addicted mother, she grew up in and out of foster care with the only constant in her life, Alex McPhee, who provided shelter and a stage to sing when she was out foster care. Now evicted with a missing boyfriend and rent money, she's back crashing above the bar when her mom waltzs back. From there, things go haywire. Slowly she grabs hold of your heart as she searches for missing people, discovers an alleged sibling and then a body as tries to keep her band from breaking up before they can get their big break. Well-plotted and clever mystery but the characters steal the show. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
November 18, 2025
I really enjoyed this mystery. Dahlia is a grounded character that is caught in strange events. She investigates to uncover the truth, but also to have the certainty that her « dad » is not involved. I really like the country singer life. But mostly through all this story, Dahlia was able to uncover what is most important to her which was nice to see. The mystery was well thought out and there were many plot twist that kept the story interesting. Overall, it’s a nice mystery story with an added emotional element !
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. Opinions are my own.
November 13, 2025
“Wreck Your Heart” by Lori Rader-Day is a moody atmospheric mystery. The story revolves around a woman with dreams of becoming a country music star but must first deal with all the consequences of her dysfunctional and tragic childhood. Her world starts to completely unravel when her mother suddenly reappears along with a sister she didn’t know existed after abandoning her 20 years ago.
The complex mystery is a small part of the story and what makes this book unique is that the characters are tough, vulnerable and heartbreaking. I found myself rooting for them the entire time. This novel is an entertaining and hopeful tale about surviving, family forgiveness, and starting over, it will wreck your heart in the best possible way!
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The complex mystery is a small part of the story and what makes this book unique is that the characters are tough, vulnerable and heartbreaking. I found myself rooting for them the entire time. This novel is an entertaining and hopeful tale about surviving, family forgiveness, and starting over, it will wreck your heart in the best possible way!
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 6, 2025
Dahlia "Doll" Devine tells this story in a sort of stream-of-consciousness way though, Thankfully, with punctuation. She's fallen on hard times. Her boyfriend Joey absconded with the rent money. Her landlord has locked her out after allowing her five minutes to gather her belongings which are packed into a black garbage bag. He phone is out of charge, and the charger must be in the apartment.
Doll finds herself back at McPhee's Tavern and back with Alex McPhee who has been rescuing her since she was a child. She's sharing an apartment with Oona and her two big dogs while she's trying to rebuild her life. The only consistency is her Wednesday night performances with her band on McPhee's stage.
But McPhee's is in danger of being sold out from under her with local real estate maven putting pressure on Alex to sell. Then her mother shows up. Doll hasn't seen her mother for twenty years. She left her with Alex and disappeared out of her life. Doll wound up in foster care but with frequent visits from Alex through the years. She has a lot of resentment about her mother which is exacerbated when a young woman shows up the day after Doll's mother comes and goes looking for her mother who just happens to be Doll's mother too.
Then Joey's body shows up in the alley behind McPhee's wrapped in curtains from their old apartment.
Doll has to find out who murdered Joey, track down her missing mother, and keep McPhee's from being sold if she wants a chance to get her life back on track.
This was an entertaining story. I enjoyed Doll's character. She prickly and needy and just recognizing that she has built her own family after thinking she was alone in the world.
Doll finds herself back at McPhee's Tavern and back with Alex McPhee who has been rescuing her since she was a child. She's sharing an apartment with Oona and her two big dogs while she's trying to rebuild her life. The only consistency is her Wednesday night performances with her band on McPhee's stage.
But McPhee's is in danger of being sold out from under her with local real estate maven putting pressure on Alex to sell. Then her mother shows up. Doll hasn't seen her mother for twenty years. She left her with Alex and disappeared out of her life. Doll wound up in foster care but with frequent visits from Alex through the years. She has a lot of resentment about her mother which is exacerbated when a young woman shows up the day after Doll's mother comes and goes looking for her mother who just happens to be Doll's mother too.
Then Joey's body shows up in the alley behind McPhee's wrapped in curtains from their old apartment.
Doll has to find out who murdered Joey, track down her missing mother, and keep McPhee's from being sold if she wants a chance to get her life back on track.
This was an entertaining story. I enjoyed Doll's character. She prickly and needy and just recognizing that she has built her own family after thinking she was alone in the world.
December 7, 2025
Mystery, music, and Chicago? If ever a book was written for me.
Dahlia is a mid-20s singer and guitar player who never learned to adult and never even really learned to people. She loses her boyfriend, her apartment, and her job - and that's only the start of the worst week she'll have.
I enjoyed the mystery, I enjoyed the people, and I always enjoy reading love letters to me city. Highly satisfying across the board.
I received a free electronic ARC of this book from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dahlia is a mid-20s singer and guitar player who never learned to adult and never even really learned to people. She loses her boyfriend, her apartment, and her job - and that's only the start of the worst week she'll have.
I enjoyed the mystery, I enjoyed the people, and I always enjoy reading love letters to me city. Highly satisfying across the board.
I received a free electronic ARC of this book from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2026
Doll Devine is the stage name Dahlia hides behind. Dahlia had a rough start in life when she was abandoned by her addict mother when she was just six years old. Dahlia’s rescuer, Alex McPhee, owns the bar where she performs as Doll with her bandmates. And Doll is having another rough go of it currently. Her boyfriend, Joey, has run off with the rent and she’s been evicted. So, she’s fallen back on Alex to help. She wishes she could get her act together and stop being so dependent.
And now her mother, the one she hasn’t seen in twenty years, is here at the bar and wants to talk. Well, too bad. Doll has a show to perform and zero desire to talk to the woman who abandoned her.
When the sister she didn’t know she had, comes looking for their mother the next day, Dahlia is drawn into a missing persons case. And when she discovers a dead body outside the bar, she knows things will never be the same for her.
This is a family drama *and* a mystery novel and I love it. Dahlia/Doll is a fantastic character- forthright, terrified of being close to anyone, funny and sarcastic, bruised. I genuinely love her. And all the numerous side characters!
Recommended for lovers of complex family dynamics, found family, old school country music, and mysteries.
I received this eARC via @netgalley and @minotaur_books. All thoughts are mine alone.
contemporary mystery | fiction | reading | books | Wreck Your Heart | Lori Rader-Day | book recs | book reviews | bookstagram
And now her mother, the one she hasn’t seen in twenty years, is here at the bar and wants to talk. Well, too bad. Doll has a show to perform and zero desire to talk to the woman who abandoned her.
When the sister she didn’t know she had, comes looking for their mother the next day, Dahlia is drawn into a missing persons case. And when she discovers a dead body outside the bar, she knows things will never be the same for her.
This is a family drama *and* a mystery novel and I love it. Dahlia/Doll is a fantastic character- forthright, terrified of being close to anyone, funny and sarcastic, bruised. I genuinely love her. And all the numerous side characters!
Recommended for lovers of complex family dynamics, found family, old school country music, and mysteries.
I received this eARC via @netgalley and @minotaur_books. All thoughts are mine alone.
contemporary mystery | fiction | reading | books | Wreck Your Heart | Lori Rader-Day | book recs | book reviews | bookstagram
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December 16, 2025This review is for the audio version of the book, narrated by Lauren Ezzo.
4/5
Dahlia (Doll) has had a rough life. Sent into the foster system and bounced around from family to family from the age of 6, she's grown up angry and unable to trust anyone but her friend and former foster father, Alex.
When a missing boyfriend, a lost job, and an eviction leave her without an income and a home, she winds up back at Alex's bar in Chicago. The bar has been her home, off and on, most of her life and it's where she and her band, Doll is a country singer, perform.
When an unexpected, and VERY unwelcome, guest shows up before one of her shows it sets her down a path of self reflection and forces her to come to terms with her past and her future.
This was a solid mystery. The plot was good and slightly unexpected, but the characters carried the show here.
Doll is exceedingly unlikable at the beginning of this book, and she knows it. She's very self aware of acting the way she does and just how unacceptable it is. Through some difficult lessons we watch her grow and come to terms with some of her flaws and accepting the flaws of those she loves.
As much as I was conflicted at the start, with just how abrasive Doll could be, she really did start to grow on me as she was forced to grow as well.
I definitely think this was worth the time to read.
4/5
Dahlia (Doll) has had a rough life. Sent into the foster system and bounced around from family to family from the age of 6, she's grown up angry and unable to trust anyone but her friend and former foster father, Alex.
When a missing boyfriend, a lost job, and an eviction leave her without an income and a home, she winds up back at Alex's bar in Chicago. The bar has been her home, off and on, most of her life and it's where she and her band, Doll is a country singer, perform.
When an unexpected, and VERY unwelcome, guest shows up before one of her shows it sets her down a path of self reflection and forces her to come to terms with her past and her future.
This was a solid mystery. The plot was good and slightly unexpected, but the characters carried the show here.
Doll is exceedingly unlikable at the beginning of this book, and she knows it. She's very self aware of acting the way she does and just how unacceptable it is. Through some difficult lessons we watch her grow and come to terms with some of her flaws and accepting the flaws of those she loves.
As much as I was conflicted at the start, with just how abrasive Doll could be, she really did start to grow on me as she was forced to grow as well.
I definitely think this was worth the time to read.
December 11, 2025
The cover definitely drew me into this mystery novel! I found Wreck Your Heart to be an entertaining read, fast-paced and full of humor. The drama (money, family, a missing person, murder…) kicks off almost immediately and doesn’t slow down. It’s a page turner for sure!
I loved the wisecracking, country-singing protagonist, Dahlia. She’s funny, spirited, and resilient, if a bit emotionally stunted thanks to a rough childhood. I thoroughly enjoyed her sarcastic first person narrative and her character growth.
And don’t be deterred if you’re not into country music; you don’t need to be a fan of the genre to enjoy this book! It’s a fun, quick read.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books for the ARC.
I loved the wisecracking, country-singing protagonist, Dahlia. She’s funny, spirited, and resilient, if a bit emotionally stunted thanks to a rough childhood. I thoroughly enjoyed her sarcastic first person narrative and her character growth.
And don’t be deterred if you’re not into country music; you don’t need to be a fan of the genre to enjoy this book! It’s a fun, quick read.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books for the ARC.
December 27, 2025
First off, the audiobook was so good. Lauren Ezzo did an amazing job bringing “Doll” to life and keeping a big cast of characters easy to follow.
The story started a little slow, but once I hit about the 20 percent mark I was fully in and didn’t want to stop listening. There are a bunch of mysteries unfolding at the same time, which kept things really interesting. I do wish some of them wrapped up earlier so we could go deeper into a few character motivations, especially with her bio mom and Alex.
Overall, this was a really solid mystery with a likable main character, family drama, twists, a touch of humor and romance, and a satisfying ending.
Thank you to Macmillan audio for an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story started a little slow, but once I hit about the 20 percent mark I was fully in and didn’t want to stop listening. There are a bunch of mysteries unfolding at the same time, which kept things really interesting. I do wish some of them wrapped up earlier so we could go deeper into a few character motivations, especially with her bio mom and Alex.
Overall, this was a really solid mystery with a likable main character, family drama, twists, a touch of humor and romance, and a satisfying ending.
Thank you to Macmillan audio for an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review.
did-not-finish
January 2, 2026Audiobook
DNF/No rating
A mix of murder mystery and family drama, Wreck Your Heart follows Dahlia “Doll” Devine. Doll is a hardened former foster kid trying to get by as a country singer at a local Chicago club. When her birth mother shows up after decades, and shortly after, her unknown half-sister, Doll must choose how she is going to move forward.
This is a decent story, but it didn't entirely work for me. Dahlia was a little too hard and cold in the beginning to fully relate to; however, I know many others will thoroughly enjoy this listen!
DNF/No rating
A mix of murder mystery and family drama, Wreck Your Heart follows Dahlia “Doll” Devine. Doll is a hardened former foster kid trying to get by as a country singer at a local Chicago club. When her birth mother shows up after decades, and shortly after, her unknown half-sister, Doll must choose how she is going to move forward.
This is a decent story, but it didn't entirely work for me. Dahlia was a little too hard and cold in the beginning to fully relate to; however, I know many others will thoroughly enjoy this listen!
January 19, 2026
In a long-ago life, I sang in a rockabilly band covering Patsy Cline, Wanda Jackson, and Janis Martin. So this book? It absolutely sang to me!
I really enjoyed Dahlia’s tough-as-nails but heart-of-gold personality. The story was great, made me wish I could head over to McPhee’s and enjoy the music. The mystery was zippy, and kept me guessing, with great red herrings thrown in.
Great read for these cold winter nights!
I really enjoyed Dahlia’s tough-as-nails but heart-of-gold personality. The story was great, made me wish I could head over to McPhee’s and enjoy the music. The mystery was zippy, and kept me guessing, with great red herrings thrown in.
Great read for these cold winter nights!
January 11, 2026
Wreck Your Heart by Lori Rader-Day stands out for its compelling character development as much as its suspense. Dahlia begins the novel immature and self-absorbed, often frustrating in her choices, but that’s exactly what makes her journey so satisfying. As she investigates her boyfriend’s murder, she’s forced to confront uncomfortable truths—not just about the crime, but about herself.
Watching Dahlia grow into someone more aware, accountable, and genuinely caring toward her friends and family is the heart of this story. The mystery unfolds alongside her emotional evolution, making the resolution feel earned on every level. Rader-Day skillfully blends psychological tension with meaningful character growth, creating a thriller that lingers after the final page.
A smart, engaging read that proves redemption arcs can be just as gripping as the mystery
Watching Dahlia grow into someone more aware, accountable, and genuinely caring toward her friends and family is the heart of this story. The mystery unfolds alongside her emotional evolution, making the resolution feel earned on every level. Rader-Day skillfully blends psychological tension with meaningful character growth, creating a thriller that lingers after the final page.
A smart, engaging read that proves redemption arcs can be just as gripping as the mystery
January 20, 2026
Title: Wreck Your Heart
By: Lori Rader Day
Pub. Day: Jan 6, 2026
Genre:
Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Family Drama
Red Flags:
Murder, Violence, Neglect, Childhood Abandonment, Emotional Trauma, Toxic Relationships, (At times the content can be heavier for those familiar with childhood abandonment.)
Recommended Ages:
15 and up
Memorable Quotes:
“These thick tavern walls have been quite the fortress,” Edith said, ”keeping people out, keeping people in.”
“My version of the story of my own life was wrecked, and if I couldn’t be sure of even my own experience, I didn’t know who I was. Maybe I wasn’t what I’d always thought I was, either.”
“Where did you get the name Devine?” she said. “I chose it,” I said. “That’s the great thing about being abandoned. You don’t have to cling to any labels your parents slapped on you.”
Summary/ Review:
Dahlia “Doll” Devine feels like her life is wrecked! After her boyfriend drains her finances and abruptly leaves, she finds herself returning to McPhee’s Tavern, leaning once again on the steady support of her dear friend, Alex McPhee. The longer Dahilia is home, the more secrets are uncovered. Will she discover the secrets of her past? And can she handle the long forbidden lies she was told by those who love her most?
This is a beautifully written mystery with the perfect blend of family drama. The plot is fast paced, engaging, and the unexpected twists of suspense continue to keep the reader engaged. I loved every part of this novel, and just when I thought I had it figured out, Wreck Your Heart twisted again! This is my first novel by Lori Rader-Day, but it won’t be my last. Her characters are created with perfect engaging depth, Rader-day effortlessly weaves the minor characters. The overall themes of forgiveness, hope and love have me still thinking about this novel, long after the last page. I highly recommend this novel!
Thank you to Lori Rader-Day, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity of an Advanced Readers Copy. I am voluntarily leaving my personal review.
#WreckYourHeart
#LoriRaderDay
#StMartinsPress
#Advancedreadercopies
#ReluctantReaderReads
#NetGalley
#ARC
By: Lori Rader Day
Pub. Day: Jan 6, 2026
Genre:
Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Family Drama
Red Flags:
Murder, Violence, Neglect, Childhood Abandonment, Emotional Trauma, Toxic Relationships, (At times the content can be heavier for those familiar with childhood abandonment.)
Recommended Ages:
15 and up
Memorable Quotes:
“These thick tavern walls have been quite the fortress,” Edith said, ”keeping people out, keeping people in.”
“My version of the story of my own life was wrecked, and if I couldn’t be sure of even my own experience, I didn’t know who I was. Maybe I wasn’t what I’d always thought I was, either.”
“Where did you get the name Devine?” she said. “I chose it,” I said. “That’s the great thing about being abandoned. You don’t have to cling to any labels your parents slapped on you.”
Summary/ Review:
Dahlia “Doll” Devine feels like her life is wrecked! After her boyfriend drains her finances and abruptly leaves, she finds herself returning to McPhee’s Tavern, leaning once again on the steady support of her dear friend, Alex McPhee. The longer Dahilia is home, the more secrets are uncovered. Will she discover the secrets of her past? And can she handle the long forbidden lies she was told by those who love her most?
This is a beautifully written mystery with the perfect blend of family drama. The plot is fast paced, engaging, and the unexpected twists of suspense continue to keep the reader engaged. I loved every part of this novel, and just when I thought I had it figured out, Wreck Your Heart twisted again! This is my first novel by Lori Rader-Day, but it won’t be my last. Her characters are created with perfect engaging depth, Rader-day effortlessly weaves the minor characters. The overall themes of forgiveness, hope and love have me still thinking about this novel, long after the last page. I highly recommend this novel!
Thank you to Lori Rader-Day, St. Martin’s Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity of an Advanced Readers Copy. I am voluntarily leaving my personal review.
#WreckYourHeart
#LoriRaderDay
#StMartinsPress
#Advancedreadercopies
#ReluctantReaderReads
#NetGalley
#ARC
January 15, 2026
Every time this overly introspective citizen detective told her band she would be right back, I cringed.
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