Maria Savva's Blog - Posts Tagged "tim-baker"
Book Review: Living the Dream - Tim Baker
Living the Dream by Tim BakerMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book had me hooked from the start and kept me interested throughout. It's a fun and fast-paced read with lots of surprising twists and turns. The characters all seemed very real which made it easy to sympathise with them, even if they were baddies!
The book revolves around a series of strange recurring dreams that many of the characters have been having. The dreams seem to point to an event involving some kind of crime with money involved, and there are familiar faces in the dreams that the characters keep seeing.
Most of the main characters are going through some kind of crisis where they feel that they need to change their lives.
Every chapter brings new surprises and there's lots of suspense and action.
I think the ending brought everything together brilliantly. It's a complex tale involving many different characters and the author did a fantastic job with it. This would make a great movie!
Highly recommended.
View all my reviews
Book Review: No Good Deed, by Tim Baker
No Good Deed by Tim BakerMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
When I first started reading this book I didn't know that it was the sequel to Living the Dream, but when I realised that it was I was very pleased. I enjoyed the first book in the series and all the characters were so great that it was nice to revisit them in 'No Good Deed'.
In this story, the hapless Kurt seems to have finally made something of himself. He even has a love interest. However, his luck soon runs out when he inadvertently gets involved in a dangerous chain of events.
We meet some new characters in this book who are just as charismatic as the old favourites from 'Living The Dream'. Al is homeless but he has a plan to get back on his feet in style. Unfortunately, there are a couple of gangsters who have other ideas.
It's a fun, fast-paced read, with lots of edge-of-your-seat action scenes. The only slight criticism I have is that the dream scenes didn't really add much to the novel. In 'Living The Dream' they were great because they were part and parcel of the story. In this book, however, I found that I just wanted the dreams scenes to end so I could get back to the action. I'm still giving it 5 stars, though, because it's a brilliant story and deserves to be read.
View all my reviews
Favourite reads of 2015, so far...
It's already June. Oh well, they say time flies when you're having fun, so I must have been having a lot of fun :)
I thought I would take the opportunity for a mid-year look back at some of my favourite reads of 2015.
In no particular order, here are a few I'd recommend if you're currently searching for your next read.
Eli's Coming by Darcia Helle
Excerpt from my review: "...a supernatural thriller with elements of fantasy and suspense. [...] When we meet Eli he is at a kind of crossroads in his life because he has found love but there is a dark secret that he is keeping and something that could threaten his new love and also his own life. The secret is slowly and steadily revealed as the story unfolds and his past comes back to find him.
I really enjoyed Eli's Coming. The dark fantasy element is fascinating. I'm pleased that this is the first in the series and am looking forward to the next book!"
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/Elis-Coming-Cha...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elis-Coming-C...
Living the Dream by Tim Baker
Excerpt from my review: "This book had me hooked from the start and kept me interested throughout. It's a fun and fast-paced read with lots of surprising twists and turns. [...] The book revolves around a series of strange recurring dreams that many of the characters have been having. [...] It's a complex tale involving many different characters and the author did a fantastic job with it. This would make a great movie!"
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/Living-Dream-Ti...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Dream-...
Easy Target by Jenny Hilborne
Excerpt from my review: "This is book two in a series, but I had not read book one and still enjoyed it immensely. I like the fast-paced style of the author's writing. [...] In this novel, Lucinda Fitchett or "Fitch" as she is known, has no recollection of events one evening after waking up in her own flat not sure how she got there after a night out. She has a very troubled past and is wary when contacted by someone who says he knows what happened to her. Fitch is determined to find out the truth [...] an action packed crime thriller that will keep you guessing until the end."
Amazon links:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Target-I...
US: http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Target-Ins...
Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One
Excerpt from my review: "First in a series, in this 'weird' story, we're introduced to Henry Darling and follow him on his first adventure. [...] It kept me hooked from the start and it's wonderfully imaginative. Henry has been through an experience that changed him and now he collects oddities. His wife and his unlikely friend Brett are his companions and helpers. This is a truly unique story from a talented writer. [...] If you haven't read any of this author's work, 'Weird' would be a great place to start."
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00R...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
The Cestus Concern by Mat Nastos
Excerpt from my review: "This is a fantastic book. It kept me hooked from the start. I loved the humourous interaction between Mal and his best friend Zuz.
Mal wakes up to find he's a cyborg and has no memory of the past 11 months of his life. In his quest to find out the truth he has to battle many government agents and man-made adversaries. It's a rollercoaster ride from page 1 with scene after scene of action packed adventure."
Amazon links:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Cestus-Co...
US: http://www.amazon.com/The-Cestus-Conc...
Dreams of a Calico Mouse: The Poems of Dorien Grey
Excerpt from my review: "Dorien Grey's "Dreams of a Calico Mouse" is the perfect example of the type of modern poetry that I enjoy. It's almost storytelling but in verse, and it contains heartfelt messages. The themes in this collection include: love, old age, regret, and dreams. A couple of the poems made me chuckle, and then there were a couple of them that nearly made me cry. All of them kept me interested and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book. This is an accomplished collection of all types of poetry including some haiku."
Amazon links:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J...
Odin's Eye
Excerpt from my review: "Maria Haskins' writing definitely fits into the literary fiction genre. These are stories that are to be savoured. There is a depth to the tales that can only be fully appreciated by taking time to really read and digest every sentence, every nuance. Each sentence is skillfully crafted. [...] All the stories are science fiction and are set in the near or distant future. They are set on different planets, different worlds. The characters are so well depicted and seem like real people telling their tale. We see things through their eyes, we feel their fear and sense their concerns. [...] The stand out story for me was 'Lost and Found', a tale about an astronaut, who is the only survivor after a crash, waiting to be rescued. That one is just perfect, in my opinion. It would make a great movie or short film."
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/Odins-Eye-Maria...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Odins-Eye-Mar...
I thought I would take the opportunity for a mid-year look back at some of my favourite reads of 2015.
In no particular order, here are a few I'd recommend if you're currently searching for your next read.
Eli's Coming by Darcia Helle
Excerpt from my review: "...a supernatural thriller with elements of fantasy and suspense. [...] When we meet Eli he is at a kind of crossroads in his life because he has found love but there is a dark secret that he is keeping and something that could threaten his new love and also his own life. The secret is slowly and steadily revealed as the story unfolds and his past comes back to find him.
I really enjoyed Eli's Coming. The dark fantasy element is fascinating. I'm pleased that this is the first in the series and am looking forward to the next book!"
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/Elis-Coming-Cha...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elis-Coming-C...
Living the Dream by Tim Baker
Excerpt from my review: "This book had me hooked from the start and kept me interested throughout. It's a fun and fast-paced read with lots of surprising twists and turns. [...] The book revolves around a series of strange recurring dreams that many of the characters have been having. [...] It's a complex tale involving many different characters and the author did a fantastic job with it. This would make a great movie!"
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/Living-Dream-Ti...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Dream-...
Easy Target by Jenny Hilborne
Excerpt from my review: "This is book two in a series, but I had not read book one and still enjoyed it immensely. I like the fast-paced style of the author's writing. [...] In this novel, Lucinda Fitchett or "Fitch" as she is known, has no recollection of events one evening after waking up in her own flat not sure how she got there after a night out. She has a very troubled past and is wary when contacted by someone who says he knows what happened to her. Fitch is determined to find out the truth [...] an action packed crime thriller that will keep you guessing until the end."
Amazon links:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Target-I...
US: http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Target-Ins...
Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One
Excerpt from my review: "First in a series, in this 'weird' story, we're introduced to Henry Darling and follow him on his first adventure. [...] It kept me hooked from the start and it's wonderfully imaginative. Henry has been through an experience that changed him and now he collects oddities. His wife and his unlikely friend Brett are his companions and helpers. This is a truly unique story from a talented writer. [...] If you haven't read any of this author's work, 'Weird' would be a great place to start."
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00R...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
The Cestus Concern by Mat Nastos
Excerpt from my review: "This is a fantastic book. It kept me hooked from the start. I loved the humourous interaction between Mal and his best friend Zuz.
Mal wakes up to find he's a cyborg and has no memory of the past 11 months of his life. In his quest to find out the truth he has to battle many government agents and man-made adversaries. It's a rollercoaster ride from page 1 with scene after scene of action packed adventure."
Amazon links:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Cestus-Co...
US: http://www.amazon.com/The-Cestus-Conc...
Dreams of a Calico Mouse: The Poems of Dorien Grey
Excerpt from my review: "Dorien Grey's "Dreams of a Calico Mouse" is the perfect example of the type of modern poetry that I enjoy. It's almost storytelling but in verse, and it contains heartfelt messages. The themes in this collection include: love, old age, regret, and dreams. A couple of the poems made me chuckle, and then there were a couple of them that nearly made me cry. All of them kept me interested and I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book. This is an accomplished collection of all types of poetry including some haiku."
Amazon links:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...
US: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00J...
Odin's Eye
Excerpt from my review: "Maria Haskins' writing definitely fits into the literary fiction genre. These are stories that are to be savoured. There is a depth to the tales that can only be fully appreciated by taking time to really read and digest every sentence, every nuance. Each sentence is skillfully crafted. [...] All the stories are science fiction and are set in the near or distant future. They are set on different planets, different worlds. The characters are so well depicted and seem like real people telling their tale. We see things through their eyes, we feel their fear and sense their concerns. [...] The stand out story for me was 'Lost and Found', a tale about an astronaut, who is the only survivor after a crash, waiting to be rescued. That one is just perfect, in my opinion. It would make a great movie or short film."
Amazon links:
US: http://www.amazon.com/Odins-Eye-Maria...
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Odins-Eye-Mar...
Some of my favourite reads from 2015
I've discovered some talented authors this year and also read some new books by some of my favourite authors.
In no particular order, here are some of my favourite books from this year:
(they may not all have been published in 2015 but are books that I read this year)
Eli's Coming, by Darcia Helle
From one of my favourite authors, the first in a series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elis-Coming-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Elis-Coming-Cha...
The Smell Of Paprika, by James Everington
I enjoyed the first four books in this series. It's a weird fantasy tale. There are strange characters and even stranger goings-on. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series, and would definitely recommend the stories.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Quarantined-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Quarantined-Cit...
Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Another series I have enjoyed this year. I'm looking forward to more "weird" stories about Henry Ian Darling :)
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Henry-D...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Weird-Henry-Dar...
The Cestus Concern, by Mat Nastos
Again, this is the first book in a series. I am looking forward to finding time to reading more by this author.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cestus-Concer...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Cestus-Concern-...
Living the Dream, by Tim Baker
I read the first two books from this series this year and enjoyed them. I have some other books by this author on my Kindle and am looking forward to reading more of his work.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Dream-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Living-Dream-Ti...
Dreams of a Calico Mouse: The Poems of Dorien Grey
If you like poetry, I'd highly recommend this collection.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dreams-Calico...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Calico-M...
Those Pesky Rabbits, by Ciara Flood
If you're looking for a good book to read to children, this one's great. My nieces and nephew (age range 4 years - 8 years) absolutely love the book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Those-Pesky-R...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Those-Pesky-Rab...
Odin's Eye, by Maria Haskins
This is one of the new authors I discovered this year. She also writes poetry and has a new collection which I'm reading at the moment. She's joining us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Odins-Eye-Mar...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Odins-Eye-Maria...
Daddy's Glove, by Thomma Lyn Grindstaff
I've read quite a few of Thomma Lyn Grindstaff short stories this year and enjoyed them all. This is another author that I've invited to join us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddys-Glove-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Daddys-Glove-Th...
Easy Target, by Jenny Hilborne
An engaging, suspenseful thriller. Although the second book in the series, I enjoyed reading it even though I haven't yet read the first one.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Target-J...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Target-Jen...
------------------------------------
Those are my top picks of 2015.
I must also mention the two Mind's Eye series books that were released this year.
Triptychs and Tales From The Cacao Tree.
I contributed short stories to those anthologies. There are stories from many talented writers, including Darcia Helle , Julie Elizabeth Powell,Lisette Brodey, Eden Baylee, Jason McIntyre, and J. Michael Radcliffe. There are also poems from Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade. Well worth reading.
Triptychs:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Triptychs-Minds...
Tales From The Cacao Tree
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tales-From-Ca...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-From-Caca...
In no particular order, here are some of my favourite books from this year:
(they may not all have been published in 2015 but are books that I read this year)
Eli's Coming, by Darcia Helle
From one of my favourite authors, the first in a series. I'm looking forward to the next book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Elis-Coming-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Elis-Coming-Cha...
The Smell Of Paprika, by James Everington
I enjoyed the first four books in this series. It's a weird fantasy tale. There are strange characters and even stranger goings-on. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series, and would definitely recommend the stories.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Quarantined-C...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Quarantined-Cit...
Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Another series I have enjoyed this year. I'm looking forward to more "weird" stories about Henry Ian Darling :)
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Weird-Henry-D...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Weird-Henry-Dar...
The Cestus Concern, by Mat Nastos
Again, this is the first book in a series. I am looking forward to finding time to reading more by this author.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cestus-Concer...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Cestus-Concern-...
Living the Dream, by Tim Baker
I read the first two books from this series this year and enjoyed them. I have some other books by this author on my Kindle and am looking forward to reading more of his work.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Dream-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Living-Dream-Ti...
Dreams of a Calico Mouse: The Poems of Dorien Grey
If you like poetry, I'd highly recommend this collection.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dreams-Calico...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Calico-M...
Those Pesky Rabbits, by Ciara Flood
If you're looking for a good book to read to children, this one's great. My nieces and nephew (age range 4 years - 8 years) absolutely love the book.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Those-Pesky-R...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Those-Pesky-Rab...
Odin's Eye, by Maria Haskins
This is one of the new authors I discovered this year. She also writes poetry and has a new collection which I'm reading at the moment. She's joining us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Odins-Eye-Mar...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Odins-Eye-Maria...
Daddy's Glove, by Thomma Lyn Grindstaff
I've read quite a few of Thomma Lyn Grindstaff short stories this year and enjoyed them all. This is another author that I've invited to join us for book 5 of the Mind's Eye series.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Daddys-Glove-...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Daddys-Glove-Th...
Easy Target, by Jenny Hilborne
An engaging, suspenseful thriller. Although the second book in the series, I enjoyed reading it even though I haven't yet read the first one.
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Easy-Target-J...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Easy-Target-Jen...
------------------------------------
Those are my top picks of 2015.
I must also mention the two Mind's Eye series books that were released this year.
Triptychs and Tales From The Cacao Tree.
I contributed short stories to those anthologies. There are stories from many talented writers, including Darcia Helle , Julie Elizabeth Powell,Lisette Brodey, Eden Baylee, Jason McIntyre, and J. Michael Radcliffe. There are also poems from Ben Ditmars and Helle Gade. Well worth reading.
Triptychs:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Triptychs-Min...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Triptychs-Minds...
Tales From The Cacao Tree
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tales-From-Ca...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Tales-From-Caca...
Free book: Eyewitness Blues, by Tim Baker
Eyewitness Blues, by one of my favourite authors Tim Baker, is available free for Kindle at Amazon (worldwide) this weekend!
I've read a couple of Tim's books and loved them (Living the Dream and No Good deed), I'm also currently reading his latest novel Full Circle. I'm about halfway through and really enjoying it. This author writes witty, fast-paced, crime fiction. I think he's a gifted writer and definitely one you should check out.
Here's more about the free book:
"Martin Aquino has been dealt a rotten hand in life—from the bottom of a stacked deck. In a flash of inspiration Martin decides the witness protection program is exactly what he needs if he’s ever going to have a quiet, normal life. Martin didn’t exactly witness the murder, but he knows who pulled the trigger – so reporting it to the law and using it as his ticket into the program isn’t wrong. Is it? Unfortunately, when mob boss Don Gammino learns that his right-hand man has been named as a murder suspect he decides to teach Martin a new tune. A chance for escape comes to him from an unexpected source, and he takes it—all the way to Flagler Beach, Florida where he gets his first taste in years of the life he’s been longing for. However, in keeping with is life in Rhode Island, his new life isn't without its complications. Now his only protection from Gammino and his goon squad is in the form of a wheelchair-bound bookie and an ex-Navy SEAL, named Ike, with a penchant for bending the rules. Martin’s in a tropical paradise surrounded by people but he still feels alone in the world. Life isn’t easy when you have the Eyewitness Blues."
Grab your free copy:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Eyewitness-Bl...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Eyewitness-Blue...
Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon FR: http://www.amazon.fr/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon DE: http://www.amazon.de/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon IT: http://www.amazon.it/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon ES: http://www.amazon.es/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon MX: http://www.amazon.com.mx/Eyewitness-B...
Amazon BR: http://www.amazon.com.br/Eyewitness-B...
Amazon IN: http://www.amazon.in/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/Eyewitness-B...
Amazon NL: http://www.amazon.nl/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon JP: http://www.amazon.co.jp/Eyewitness-Bl...
I've read a couple of Tim's books and loved them (Living the Dream and No Good deed), I'm also currently reading his latest novel Full Circle. I'm about halfway through and really enjoying it. This author writes witty, fast-paced, crime fiction. I think he's a gifted writer and definitely one you should check out.
Here's more about the free book:
"Martin Aquino has been dealt a rotten hand in life—from the bottom of a stacked deck. In a flash of inspiration Martin decides the witness protection program is exactly what he needs if he’s ever going to have a quiet, normal life. Martin didn’t exactly witness the murder, but he knows who pulled the trigger – so reporting it to the law and using it as his ticket into the program isn’t wrong. Is it? Unfortunately, when mob boss Don Gammino learns that his right-hand man has been named as a murder suspect he decides to teach Martin a new tune. A chance for escape comes to him from an unexpected source, and he takes it—all the way to Flagler Beach, Florida where he gets his first taste in years of the life he’s been longing for. However, in keeping with is life in Rhode Island, his new life isn't without its complications. Now his only protection from Gammino and his goon squad is in the form of a wheelchair-bound bookie and an ex-Navy SEAL, named Ike, with a penchant for bending the rules. Martin’s in a tropical paradise surrounded by people but he still feels alone in the world. Life isn’t easy when you have the Eyewitness Blues."
Grab your free copy:
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Eyewitness-Bl...
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Eyewitness-Blue...
Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon FR: http://www.amazon.fr/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon DE: http://www.amazon.de/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon IT: http://www.amazon.it/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon ES: http://www.amazon.es/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon MX: http://www.amazon.com.mx/Eyewitness-B...
Amazon BR: http://www.amazon.com.br/Eyewitness-B...
Amazon IN: http://www.amazon.in/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon AU: http://www.amazon.com.au/Eyewitness-B...
Amazon NL: http://www.amazon.nl/Eyewitness-Blues...
Amazon JP: http://www.amazon.co.jp/Eyewitness-Bl...
Book review: Full Circle, by Tim Baker
Full Circle by Tim BakerMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Full Circle is an entertaining read. It's the kind of book that could be described as a 'page turner'. It's fast-paced and full of interesting characters. I'm a big fan of this author's writing. Having read Living the Dream and No Good Deed, I was looking forward to finding time to read another of his books. He is a gifted storyteller whose writing flows effortlessly, creating realistic characters and suspenseful plots that are always full of exciting twists and turns. There's always plenty of humour in his books as well, which makes them fun to read.
Full Circle is all about karma and how what goes around comes around. There's lots of action and suspense. When you pick up the book be prepared to become hooked within the first few pages. I found that I was looking forward to finding out what happened to each of the characters.
The main character is Joe Moretti, a successful and unscrupulous businessman. Despite his flaws, he's an intriguing man. We follow his story and meet other characters whose stories are somehow connected to his. The chapters are written so that we see the same action from different perspectives. At first, I thought that would become repetitive and involve too much of the same information being duplicated. However, as the story progressed, I came to see that the style was very effective in relaying very important information that was central to the storyline and it all came together very well at the end.
This is quite a complex story, yet told as if it were a simple tale. There are many intricate elements to the story that all revolve around the main theme of cause and effect and how an individual's actions influences their future.
Tim Baker is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. I'm looking forward to reading more of his books.
View all my reviews
Book Review: Eyewitness Blues, by Tim Baker
Eyewitness Blues by Tim BakerMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. Having read No Good deed and Living the Dream, I was looking forward to reading this one. Tim Baker is a brilliant writer. His novels are always full of humour and plenty of twists and turns. "Eyewitness Blues" is another action-packed book that is entertaining and contains the inspired and thought-provoking prose that I have come to expect from this author.
We follow the hapless Martin Aquino in this crime-fuelled adventure. He travels to Flagler Beach in Florida, and there we meet some of the characters from Tim Baker's earlier novels, including Ike. Ike is a larger than life character who regularly appears in this author's books. There's a bonus short story at the end of the book, which is taken from a collection of short stories that feature Ike.
There are so many interesting and realistic characters in "Eyewitness Blues". It will have you on the edge of your seat.
Tim Baker's novels are always engrossing and compelling, and "Eyewitness Blues" is no exception. It's a fun read that also has a deeper meaning. It's always wonderful when you find a writer who knows how to weave compulsive and entertaining tales that also contain important observations about life and human nature.
View all my reviews
National Book Lovers Day 2016
August 9th is National Book Lovers Day.
To celebrate, I've picked 10 of my favourite books (by independent authors). I hope you will read at least one of them. If you do, and if you like the book/s, please think about leaving a review on Goodreads or Amazon, or anywhere else. Reviews help authors. Without authors there would be no books and there would be no National Book Lovers Day.
So, for all you bibliophiles out there, here are some suggested reads.
1. Darcia Helle's - Eli's Coming
I could have picked any one of Darcia Helle's books. She's a very talented author and I'd recommend all her books. Eli's Coming is her latest novel. It's a supernatural thriller with elements of dark fantasy and suspense, full of thrills, humour, and believable characters.
2. The Guardian's Apprentice, by J. Michael Radcliffe.
I'm a big fan of J. Michael Radcliffe's books. He is a brilliant fantasy author. If you like dark fantasy, with dragons, other worlds, magic, etc. I'd highly recommend any of his books.
3. Living the Dream, by Tim Baker
I've read a few of Tim Baker's books and have enjoyed them all. He is a talented writer whose books are skillfully written, full of suspense, adventure, and humour. He's one of my favourite authors and I always know that when I pick up a Tim Baker book I'm going to enjoy it.
4. Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
As with all the authors I've mentioned so far, I could have chosen any one of Julie Elizabeth Powell's books to recommend. She's a prolific writer who has a boundless imagination and always surprises me with her books. She's very inventive and creative with her writing, experimenting with all sorts of genres. "Weird" is her latest series of books, which is excellent.
5. Odin's Eye, by Maria Haskins
If you're a science fiction fan you'll love Maria Haskins' short story collection. Maria is a very talented author. She also writes poetry. With Maria's writing, I can always tell how much effort has gone into making sure every sentence says exactly the right thing, and her writing evokes imagery and emotion. It's a joy to read.
6. Nocturnal Embers, by Helle Gade
If you like poetry, you'll love Helle Gade's books. Her poetry is from the heart and full of passion. I'd recommend any one of her collections of poetry.
7. You Wish..., by Terry Tyler
Terry Tyler is another one of those talented authors who always produces quality fiction. Whenever I pick up one of her books, I know that I'll get lost in the story. "You Wish" was the first one of her books that I read and it made me a fan.
8. Crooked Moon, by Lisette Brodey
Again, I could have picked any one of Lisette Brodey's books. She is another author who likes to experiment with different styles and genres. I've enjoyed all of her books. "Crooked Moon" is a favourite of mine.
9. What Tim Knows, and other stories, by Wendy Janes
I recently discovered this author's writing and am glad I did. She writes beautifully, and this short story collection is full of realistic characters and true-to-life tales that will make you think.
10. Rock'n'Roll Suicide, By Geoffrey D. West
A great crime thriller. This book is the first in a series, and I would highly recommend the whole series. Geoffrey West also writes great short stories.
Please feel free to recommend any of your favourite books by independent authors, in the comments below :)
To celebrate, I've picked 10 of my favourite books (by independent authors). I hope you will read at least one of them. If you do, and if you like the book/s, please think about leaving a review on Goodreads or Amazon, or anywhere else. Reviews help authors. Without authors there would be no books and there would be no National Book Lovers Day.
So, for all you bibliophiles out there, here are some suggested reads.
1. Darcia Helle's - Eli's Coming
I could have picked any one of Darcia Helle's books. She's a very talented author and I'd recommend all her books. Eli's Coming is her latest novel. It's a supernatural thriller with elements of dark fantasy and suspense, full of thrills, humour, and believable characters.
2. The Guardian's Apprentice, by J. Michael Radcliffe.
I'm a big fan of J. Michael Radcliffe's books. He is a brilliant fantasy author. If you like dark fantasy, with dragons, other worlds, magic, etc. I'd highly recommend any of his books.
3. Living the Dream, by Tim Baker
I've read a few of Tim Baker's books and have enjoyed them all. He is a talented writer whose books are skillfully written, full of suspense, adventure, and humour. He's one of my favourite authors and I always know that when I pick up a Tim Baker book I'm going to enjoy it.
4. Weird: A Henry Ian Darling Oddity Missive One, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
As with all the authors I've mentioned so far, I could have chosen any one of Julie Elizabeth Powell's books to recommend. She's a prolific writer who has a boundless imagination and always surprises me with her books. She's very inventive and creative with her writing, experimenting with all sorts of genres. "Weird" is her latest series of books, which is excellent.
5. Odin's Eye, by Maria Haskins
If you're a science fiction fan you'll love Maria Haskins' short story collection. Maria is a very talented author. She also writes poetry. With Maria's writing, I can always tell how much effort has gone into making sure every sentence says exactly the right thing, and her writing evokes imagery and emotion. It's a joy to read.
6. Nocturnal Embers, by Helle Gade
If you like poetry, you'll love Helle Gade's books. Her poetry is from the heart and full of passion. I'd recommend any one of her collections of poetry.
7. You Wish..., by Terry Tyler
Terry Tyler is another one of those talented authors who always produces quality fiction. Whenever I pick up one of her books, I know that I'll get lost in the story. "You Wish" was the first one of her books that I read and it made me a fan.
8. Crooked Moon, by Lisette Brodey
Again, I could have picked any one of Lisette Brodey's books. She is another author who likes to experiment with different styles and genres. I've enjoyed all of her books. "Crooked Moon" is a favourite of mine.
9. What Tim Knows, and other stories, by Wendy Janes
I recently discovered this author's writing and am glad I did. She writes beautifully, and this short story collection is full of realistic characters and true-to-life tales that will make you think.
10. Rock'n'Roll Suicide, By Geoffrey D. West
A great crime thriller. This book is the first in a series, and I would highly recommend the whole series. Geoffrey West also writes great short stories.
Please feel free to recommend any of your favourite books by independent authors, in the comments below :)
Some great new releases I've heard about
There have been lots of new books coming out lately, and I've been downloading them all onto my Kindle in the hope that I'll get a chance to read them!
Here are a few that I've heard about recently that I think will be awesome reads:
Blood in the Water, by Tim Baker
About the book:
Bob “Oscar” Oscarson thinks he may have struck it rich when he finds a 300-year-old Spanish coin while SCUBA diving.
When he and his partner, Nik, begin researching the coin, they learn it has a very mysterious history…one that may end up costing them their lives.
To be safe they enlist the help of Nik’s friend Ike – an ex-Navy SEAL with a penchant for bending the rules – to protect their interests.
Meanwhile, Flagler Beach P.I. Steve Salem and his partner Val Casey are investigating the disappearance of a retired architect from Rhode Island. The case goes from routine to deadly when they cross paths with a high-powered politician harboring a secret he’ll kill to protect.
They’re all about to learn that digging up the past can be deadly.
I've read a few of Tim Baker's books and always look forward to new releases by this author. I love his writing style. His stories are always full of suspense, humour, and intrigue. I've already started reading "Blood in the Water" and am enjoying it.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blood-Water-...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Water-Ti...
**********************************
Sleeping With Earth, by Ben Ditmars
About the book:
Nature calls from the depths of itself, heating embers of a flame lost to global warming and withering romance. Hear voices find their truth as weeds tangle with free-verse and haiku poetry.
Ben Ditmars is a talented poet. He's contributed many poems to the Mind's Eye series of books that I'm involved in. His poetry is always passionate and from the heart. In this collection he has taken his inspiration from environmental issues.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sleeping-Ear...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Sleeping-Earth...
************************************
The Devil You Know, by Terry Tyler
About the book:
Every serial killer is someone's friend, spouse, lover or child....
Young women are being murdered in the Lincolnshire town of Lyndford, where five people fear someone close to them might be the monster the police are searching for.
One of them is right.
Juliet sees an expert's profile of the average serial killer and realises that her abusive husband, Paul, ticks all the boxes.
Maisie thinks her mum's new boyfriend seems too good to be true. Is she the only person who can see through Gary's friendly, sensitive façade?
Tamsin is besotted with her office crush, Jake. Then love turns to suspicion...
Steve is used to his childhood friend, Dan, being a loud mouthed Lothario with little respect for the truth. But is a new influence in his life leading him down a more sinister path?
Dorothy's beloved son, Orlando, is keeping a secret from her—a chilling discovery forces her to confront her worst fears.
THE DEVIL YOU KNOW is a character-driven psychological drama that will keep you guessing until the very end.
I've read a few of Terry Tyler's books and always enjoy her stories. Her books are always full of twists and turns and true-to-life characters. This new one sounds like a great read.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Devil-You-Kn...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Devil-You-Know...
**********************************
The Quarantined City, by James Everington
About the book:
The Quarantined City: sealed off from the outside world, with only the sight of the ocean to remind its inhabitants of life beyond. No one knows why the city has been quarantined and conspiracy theories abound.
But for Fellows life continues largely as before. He walks the streets, hunts out rare books; the sun continues to shine and the gulls circle above.
There’s the small matter of the ghost haunting his house, but Fellows doesn’t let himself think of that.
But when he tracks down a story by the reclusive writer known as Boursier, his old certainties fade as he becomes aware that the secrets of the city, the ghostly child, and the quarantine itself, might be more connected than he thinks...
This book was originally released last year as a serial. I read the first three or four parts and really enjoyed it. The book has now been released as a complete novel and I'm looking forward to finding time to finish reading it. It's a very engrossing tale that keeps you guessing.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Quarantined-...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Quarantined-Ci...
*************************************
Weapon Of Choice (Crime & Mystery Box Set Vol.1): 8 Complete Novels & Novellas from your Favorite Crime & Mystery Authors featuring A Murderer's Heart, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Volume 1 includes:
Chasing the Storm — Martin Molsted
Wired For Sound — Cherime MacFarlane
A Murderer's Heart — Julie Elizabeth Powell
Dream Noir and Other Tales — Sean P.Gallatin
The Eyes Die Last — Teri Riggs
A Shot in the Bark — C. A. Newsome
Teach Me To Prey — Samantha Jacobey
Lost Plane — Jami Brumfield
and
Weapon of Choice (Crime & Mystery Box Set Vol. 2): 8 Complete Novels & Novellas from your Favorite Crime & Mystery Authors featuring Dirty Business, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Volume 2 includes:
Blood is Heavier — Ella Medler
Binding Contracts — Holly Barbo
The Perfect Spirit — Traci Hayden
The Hundred Year Wait — Amelia Price
Vengeful Legal Deal — Kendra Hale
Love Lost — Maria DeSouza
Deadly Dating Games — Joanie Chevalier
Dirty Business — Julie Elizabeth Powell
Box set description:
WEAPON OF CHOICE is an astounding collection of crime and mystery stories, suspenseful, ingenious and captivating, with original features that will lead your imagination on a wild adventure. Over TWO volumes, you can find 16 new worlds to explore, 16 mysteries to investigate, 16 new sets of characters to root for.
I'm a big fan of Julie Elizabeth Powell's writing. Two of her books feature in this collection. I've read both and would highly recommend them if you like crime fiction or murder/mystery.
These box sets are great value at just 99c/99p each. Well worth checking out.
Purchase links:
Volume 1:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Volume 2:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weapon-Choic...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Weapon-Choice-...
**************************************
A pre-order that will be released on the 10th of December: Stuff the Turkey, by Tara Ford
About the book:
Susie Satchel has it all. A new job, her own flat and a long-term boyfriend. She’s even got a new hair-style and a pair of to-die-for boots to wear as the festive period approaches. She is going to live her dream this year and have the best Christmas ever, if it’s the last thing she does. Cosy, quiet and sparkly are her three favourite words for the holidays and she is determined to make sure that her Christmas is just that.
However, it seems that the great universe has other ideas for Susie as things don’t quite go as planned – starting with the work’s Christmas do which, to the amusement of others, turns into a farce at her expense.
Will Susie get through Christmas with a smile on her face or will her world, including the Christmas tree, come tumbling down around her?
I enjoyed Tara Ford's book Calling All Dentists. I like her writing style, which is full of humour and insightful observation. If you're looking for a festive read, I think this one will be good.
Pre-order links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stuff-Turkey...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Stuff-Turkey-T...
************************************
I hope you'll find a book or two to enjoy from the above recommendations :)
Here are a few that I've heard about recently that I think will be awesome reads:
Blood in the Water, by Tim Baker
About the book:
Bob “Oscar” Oscarson thinks he may have struck it rich when he finds a 300-year-old Spanish coin while SCUBA diving.
When he and his partner, Nik, begin researching the coin, they learn it has a very mysterious history…one that may end up costing them their lives.
To be safe they enlist the help of Nik’s friend Ike – an ex-Navy SEAL with a penchant for bending the rules – to protect their interests.
Meanwhile, Flagler Beach P.I. Steve Salem and his partner Val Casey are investigating the disappearance of a retired architect from Rhode Island. The case goes from routine to deadly when they cross paths with a high-powered politician harboring a secret he’ll kill to protect.
They’re all about to learn that digging up the past can be deadly.
I've read a few of Tim Baker's books and always look forward to new releases by this author. I love his writing style. His stories are always full of suspense, humour, and intrigue. I've already started reading "Blood in the Water" and am enjoying it.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blood-Water-...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Blood-Water-Ti...
**********************************
Sleeping With Earth, by Ben Ditmars
About the book:
Nature calls from the depths of itself, heating embers of a flame lost to global warming and withering romance. Hear voices find their truth as weeds tangle with free-verse and haiku poetry.
Ben Ditmars is a talented poet. He's contributed many poems to the Mind's Eye series of books that I'm involved in. His poetry is always passionate and from the heart. In this collection he has taken his inspiration from environmental issues.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sleeping-Ear...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Sleeping-Earth...
************************************
The Devil You Know, by Terry Tyler
About the book:
Every serial killer is someone's friend, spouse, lover or child....
Young women are being murdered in the Lincolnshire town of Lyndford, where five people fear someone close to them might be the monster the police are searching for.
One of them is right.
Juliet sees an expert's profile of the average serial killer and realises that her abusive husband, Paul, ticks all the boxes.
Maisie thinks her mum's new boyfriend seems too good to be true. Is she the only person who can see through Gary's friendly, sensitive façade?
Tamsin is besotted with her office crush, Jake. Then love turns to suspicion...
Steve is used to his childhood friend, Dan, being a loud mouthed Lothario with little respect for the truth. But is a new influence in his life leading him down a more sinister path?
Dorothy's beloved son, Orlando, is keeping a secret from her—a chilling discovery forces her to confront her worst fears.
THE DEVIL YOU KNOW is a character-driven psychological drama that will keep you guessing until the very end.
I've read a few of Terry Tyler's books and always enjoy her stories. Her books are always full of twists and turns and true-to-life characters. This new one sounds like a great read.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Devil-You-Kn...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Devil-You-Know...
**********************************
The Quarantined City, by James Everington
About the book:
The Quarantined City: sealed off from the outside world, with only the sight of the ocean to remind its inhabitants of life beyond. No one knows why the city has been quarantined and conspiracy theories abound.
But for Fellows life continues largely as before. He walks the streets, hunts out rare books; the sun continues to shine and the gulls circle above.
There’s the small matter of the ghost haunting his house, but Fellows doesn’t let himself think of that.
But when he tracks down a story by the reclusive writer known as Boursier, his old certainties fade as he becomes aware that the secrets of the city, the ghostly child, and the quarantine itself, might be more connected than he thinks...
This book was originally released last year as a serial. I read the first three or four parts and really enjoyed it. The book has now been released as a complete novel and I'm looking forward to finding time to finish reading it. It's a very engrossing tale that keeps you guessing.
Purchase links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Quarantined-...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Quarantined-Ci...
*************************************
Weapon Of Choice (Crime & Mystery Box Set Vol.1): 8 Complete Novels & Novellas from your Favorite Crime & Mystery Authors featuring A Murderer's Heart, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Volume 1 includes:
Chasing the Storm — Martin Molsted
Wired For Sound — Cherime MacFarlane
A Murderer's Heart — Julie Elizabeth Powell
Dream Noir and Other Tales — Sean P.Gallatin
The Eyes Die Last — Teri Riggs
A Shot in the Bark — C. A. Newsome
Teach Me To Prey — Samantha Jacobey
Lost Plane — Jami Brumfield
and
Weapon of Choice (Crime & Mystery Box Set Vol. 2): 8 Complete Novels & Novellas from your Favorite Crime & Mystery Authors featuring Dirty Business, by Julie Elizabeth Powell
Volume 2 includes:
Blood is Heavier — Ella Medler
Binding Contracts — Holly Barbo
The Perfect Spirit — Traci Hayden
The Hundred Year Wait — Amelia Price
Vengeful Legal Deal — Kendra Hale
Love Lost — Maria DeSouza
Deadly Dating Games — Joanie Chevalier
Dirty Business — Julie Elizabeth Powell
Box set description:
WEAPON OF CHOICE is an astounding collection of crime and mystery stories, suspenseful, ingenious and captivating, with original features that will lead your imagination on a wild adventure. Over TWO volumes, you can find 16 new worlds to explore, 16 mysteries to investigate, 16 new sets of characters to root for.
I'm a big fan of Julie Elizabeth Powell's writing. Two of her books feature in this collection. I've read both and would highly recommend them if you like crime fiction or murder/mystery.
These box sets are great value at just 99c/99p each. Well worth checking out.
Purchase links:
Volume 1:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01...
Volume 2:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Weapon-Choic...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Weapon-Choice-...
**************************************
A pre-order that will be released on the 10th of December: Stuff the Turkey, by Tara Ford
About the book:
Susie Satchel has it all. A new job, her own flat and a long-term boyfriend. She’s even got a new hair-style and a pair of to-die-for boots to wear as the festive period approaches. She is going to live her dream this year and have the best Christmas ever, if it’s the last thing she does. Cosy, quiet and sparkly are her three favourite words for the holidays and she is determined to make sure that her Christmas is just that.
However, it seems that the great universe has other ideas for Susie as things don’t quite go as planned – starting with the work’s Christmas do which, to the amusement of others, turns into a farce at her expense.
Will Susie get through Christmas with a smile on her face or will her world, including the Christmas tree, come tumbling down around her?
I enjoyed Tara Ford's book Calling All Dentists. I like her writing style, which is full of humour and insightful observation. If you're looking for a festive read, I think this one will be good.
Pre-order links:
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stuff-Turkey...
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Stuff-Turkey-T...
************************************
I hope you'll find a book or two to enjoy from the above recommendations :)
Book Review: Blood in the Water, by Tim Baker
Blood in the Water by Tim BakerMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great read from this talented author. Tim Baker's novels always have plenty of suspense, adventure, and humour. Blood in the Water is no exception.
I've read a few books by this author and it's like reading a series—even though there is no continuing story as such—because he sets his stories on Flagler Beach in Florida and many of the same characters pop up in each of his novels.
I enjoyed this story. It's a fast-paced read that makes you want to turn the pages to find out what happens. The ending made me wonder if there might be a sequel; it was very thought-provoking and rounded the story off nicely but with enough intrigue to start me thinking about what could happen next. An entertaining read with a complex but easy to follow storyline.
A 300-year-old Spanish coin found at sea begins the adventure, which takes many dangerous twists and turns. There is also the parallel story of a murder investigation. An engrossing story that kept me interested.
View all my reviews
