Many Thanks to the author for an ARC copy of The Night Sender. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Rose Woodburn is celebrating her 18th birthday bMany Thanks to the author for an ARC copy of The Night Sender. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Rose Woodburn is celebrating her 18th birthday but it’s a celebration with a difference coz at the stroke of midnight, she will be visited by a night sender, part creature part human who would help her lose her virginity and be ready for marriage without fear. The purpose is seemingly noble but why then are the girls of the court warned to be wary of these creatures and why is everything so shrouded in secrecy and mystery?
Rose’s enthusiasm and passion for life however makes her different from other girls in the court in the fictional place of Dover and it is this character that welcomes Roosha with openness and thereby demanding further exploration of her sensuality and womanhood.
The debut work by the author is exceedingly well-written with multiple themes coming into play. Rose’s journey of self-discovery and her growth in character from the childish and naïve young girl to the woman secure in her knowledge of her sensuality and about love and sacrifice was conveyed brilliantly. Rose’s relationship with her mother and also finally growing to trust her only friend Vivianna, the fights with her nemesis Savannah each segment of the story builds up the thrill ride for this 3-part series.
It is admirable that beneath the layers of this fantasy world, the author Christina Tsirkas has layered a very thoughtful tale of a woman’s struggle focussing on her marital rights and her freedom to choose. It is also a tale that shows the revengeful spirit of a wronged woman. The concept of how the night senders come into being was even more surprising. Roosha and his friend Avidan with their guilt-ridden lives and sentence of servitude evokes sympathy. The author has woven a magical story of passionate love and with images so clear-cut that the fantasy world becomes real for a reader. The sizzling chemistry between the leads adds to the hotness and the intimate scenes were quite erotic.
The story ends as a cliff-hanger at a very crucial point and I just can’t wait for book #2 to know the outcome of this forbidden love between Rose and Roosha.
New year reading actually began with this ghost story but since life, as such was a menace, took a break and resumed it later.
There’s reason why afterNew year reading actually began with this ghost story but since life, as such was a menace, took a break and resumed it later.
There’s reason why after reading The Witch Of Willow Hall, Hester Fox moved into the auto-buy authors list for me. I simply loved that book for its all perfect story-telling. Honestly, I was worried about The Widow Of Pale Harbor, thinking that my high expectation would spell disaster but THANK YOU Hester Fox for producing another sure-fire winner which combines equal parts mystery, intrigue, gothic and romance keeping the fan-girl in me happy.
Gabriel Stone is on a journey to save himself. Believing himself to be the reason for his wife’s death and guilt-ridden for not being the man she had hoped him to be, Gabriel only wishes to start anew in Pale Harbor. What he never expected is the claustrophobic and small-town mindset of all the people and how their superstitious beliefs have made a woman’s life living hell. Sophronia Carver is no witch but the the town believes her so and she’s doomed to reside in her castle without stepping a foot across its threshold.
There’s mischief underfoot in the small town as someone is hell-bent on using the dark stories of Edgar Allen Poe and instilling terror and frightening one and all as Sophronia becomes the perpetrator’s target.
The eerie atmospheric feel to the story was simply outstanding and the romance between Gabe and Sophy captivating. Tom as Gabe’s friend added the lightness to the dark and brooding story. The friendship between Gabe and Tom really lifts the spirits, there’s a sweet and loving touch to their relationship. It was however Helen’s character that I loved immensely. The use of spells and the severity in her approach to everything conveyed the frightening and sinister atmosphere to Castle Carver.
If you are a fan of gothic mysteries with lovely romance, then go ahead and just grab this book with both hands. You’re surely not going to be disappointed.
Many thanks to the author Ruchira Khanna for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What a quirky title for a sMany thanks to the author Ruchira Khanna for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What a quirky title for a story that conveys a hard topic of marriage, divorce and second chances.
This is one of those perfect books that showcases the cultural differences between an Indian household and probably the rest of the world. It is said in India, a girl marries not just a guy but his whole family and it is true in so many ways. The countless number of auntyji’s and uncleji’s that manage a girl’s life is simply staggering. Here, the story focuses on another aspect of a man’s nature, that of being unable to counter one’s mother even if the said person is the reason for the chaos and disruption in your life.
Ruchira Khanna writes brilliantly showing us Saru and her strength in dealing with a husband who is unable to cut his mom’s strings. It was humorous to see the wonderful ways she uses the sport of cricket to boost her spirits and score over her mother-in-law. Even a non-cricket fan wouldn’t have a problem following the game of life and cheering for Saru to bat for more runs. The support and strength of her own family was a lovely touch as it made for some sweet moments.
Following your dreams, second chances, finding one’s worth and guiding your daughter towards a safe place everything is so beautifully captured by the author.
For all fans who believe in love, go ahead and read this amazing tale of Saru and her batsmanship.
Have you been to a museum and wondered about the all the beautiful artifacts, about the stories that each item would say, if at all they had a voice? Have you been to a museum and wondered about the all the beautiful artifacts, about the stories that each item would say, if at all they had a voice? I have visited the Mysuru Palace (https://www.mysorepalace.gov.in/) in India umpteen number of times and each time the display has managed to bewitch me. The magnificent aura that those old palaces exude is frankly, beyond words.
House Of Shadows by Nicola Cornick is a book written with love for all fans of historical fiction. The story is so beautifully immersive and utterly compelling that Ashdown House burns bright for a reader. There are 3 parts in the book with actual historical facts interwoven so brilliantly that it feels like walking alongside each character in the story.
It was fascinating to read about the winter queen and her devoted cavalier and truthfully, the historical facts that make the story is even more spectacular and stranger that the story itself. Nicola Cornick has explained her passion for Ashdown House after having worked there and it is easy to see the allure that the rich history of the house holds for the author. To weave 3 strands of story with suspense and mystery adding to the intrigue, House of Shadows succeeds in keeping the reader mesmerised and entranced.
Each segment of the story, with Elizabeth in 1662, Lavinia in 1801 and Holly in the present is captivating as the Sistrin Pearl and the jewelled mirror binds these women across centuries with its cursed prophecies. The mystery of Holly’s missing brother and the ensuing drama which is the main point around which the story begins, in fact begs for attention as the story of Lavinia and the winter queen takes precedence. I loved the romance between Holly and Mark even though all that insta-love and bound for centuries connection had me rolling my eyes.
Absolutely enthralled with the flawless story-telling by Nicola Cornick!
Henry is having fun again and honestly there's so much joy reading this with my daughter. It was easy to make her understand the consequences of doingHenry is having fun again and honestly there's so much joy reading this with my daughter. It was easy to make her understand the consequences of doing anything in excess with the mischevious ways of Henry.
Excellent presentation and easy to read by children aged 5-6 with little help from parents....more
Darynda Jones in her acknowledgement thanks the readers for allowing Defiance, Annette, Ruthie and Roane into our lives but honestly dear Darynda, we Darynda Jones in her acknowledgement thanks the readers for allowing Defiance, Annette, Ruthie and Roane into our lives but honestly dear Darynda, we should be thanking YOU for providing us such a quirky and brilliant paranormal love story brimming with humor that had me rolling on the floor laughing.
It has been a long while that I have read a book which made me guffaw out loud, every aspect of this story leaving the fan girl in me happy. Right from page 1 where Dayne meets an all-purple clad house agent there was not a single sentence that didn’t make me laugh. I would have loved to have a grandmother like Ruthie in my life. In fact, I would have loved to have a best friend like Annette also in my life. Defiance Dayne is pushing 40 and in a terrible fix both personally and financially when a temperamental house called Percival is gifted to her. Wary and suspicious of everything, Dayne discovers her true identity of being a charmling, guided by her already dead grandmother Ruthie.
The story moves at a lovely pace with witchy events happening one after another alongside a very attractive and charming Roane who happens to take everything in his stride.
Betwixt is book # 1 in the Betwixt and Between series featuring an exquisite set of characters that for once I sincerely wished to binge-read the whole series. Surely looking forward to read the next two books.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Aria & Aries Publications and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.Many thanks to Net Galley, Aria & Aries Publications and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Ever since I had read Secrets of the Mist by Kate Ryder, I have been looking forward to her latest release. Firstly, that beautiful and enchanting cover image had hooked me from the start.
Secondly the serenity and tranquility that the author conveys thru her writing, I am so much in awe.
Thirdly, the story itself that talks about love offering second chances regardless of the hardships that one may face.
Cassandra has always been a loner who prefers her affinity to nature and animals in spending her days rather than be sociable. An accident that alters her life status finds her charmed and in love with David Ashcroft and living with him. 10 years later, questioning her loyalty to man who hardly values her, Cass takes up an all consuming job at Foxcombe Manor, helping out in all the ways that she can. Meeting Luke as the famed author Hunter Harcourt opens up all possibilities and life becomes free of pain and sadness soothing her weary soul.
Kate Ryder writes an immersive novel about Cass’s journey of self-discovery finding her feet, trusting her heart and acknowledging what is primarily more important in her life which was simply terrific. I loved each character in the book, Ginny and her family, Robyn who befriends Cass and provides a soulful connection, even the ghostly presence that evokes a feeling of melancholia.
I would have loved the final few chapters to a bit more detailed as after introducing Luke’s POV at the end, it would have been interesting to see the discussion between him and his wife Amanda. However, the story leaves the reader with a feeling of warmth and contentment like being cocooned inside a most cherished blanket which is in itself a lovely accomplishment.
Had my daughter smile all the way thru the reading of this wonderful book. Such a mischievous and fun loving horse. A book that is thoroughly entertaiHad my daughter smile all the way thru the reading of this wonderful book. Such a mischievous and fun loving horse. A book that is thoroughly entertaining for children aged 3-5 yrs.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Vanguard Press, FSB associates and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntaMany thanks to Net Galley, Vanguard Press, FSB associates and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A debut novel by Barry Eisenberg, Primal Calling embodies the emotional upheaval faced by a person in the search of a loved one. The whole traumatic experience in seeking out a parent or a child or a relative for years altogether to receive a spark of hope and then to find it all crashing down is somehow inconceivable for a human being. But in spite of this, there are success stories that inspire hope and a beacon of light for people attempting the same.
Jack Davies was just pottering around in the attic of his house to kill boredom when the discovery of his birth certificate reveals a devastating secret. His father’s name hitherto unknown was suddenly stark clear and the anonymous donor story that his mother had claimed was proven false. Thus, begins his long and arduous journey to search for the one-half of a parent who had birthed him. But Jack’s enquiries unearth deeper mysteries as his father’s job takes on a whole new cloak and dagger drama.
Barry Eisenberg writes an effortless story that connects to a reader in a meaningful way. A host of characters are introduced with enough backstory that each of them feels relatable. It was interesting to see how the story progresses from the discovery of a father to politics about oil companies in Russia, Germany and Saudi Arabia and the terrifying act that leaves another couple with unbearable grief.
Jack’s character was an absolute charm as the author clearly depicts the struggle, he faces in forgiving his mother for her deception but the sensible and sound advice from his newfound friend Cathy helps in opening his eyes to his mother’s choices. Linda’s reasoning honestly failed to convince me as a reader and also the angst and worry and gloomy prospect of failed leads in Jack’s search was not potent enough for me. The utter hopelessness of the situation that takes him a year, I thought could have been more compelling. But these are just minor points in a story that has been crafted brilliantly and is debut worth watching out for.
Many Thanks to the author for an ARC copy of the book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This is my 5th book by Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple andMany Thanks to the author for an ARC copy of the book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
This is my 5th book by Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple and am running out of words in admiration of her work. The meticulous research that went into reconstructing the era of treating diseases with the help of plants is extremely commendable. Like always, Maiden of The Grove rightly hits the mark. To talk about a sickness in a village that more or less has symptoms similar to what we are all terrified of currently, the dreaded pandemic that has halted and changed the course of life for many is itself an achievement.
Maiden Of The Grove, book # 2 in the Celtic Highland Maidens series explores the story of Aila Blogh, the second daughter of the Caledonii chieftain who is a wisewoman and healer of her village. Her guilt in not being able to cure a person suffering from fever and cough resulting in his death forces her to decide in learning more about the healing arts from another wisewoman and with this aim in pursuit, sets of in the dead of the night aided by her long-time friend and loyal companion Eian MacLaurin.
The story flows beautifully capturing the gruff Ulha who provides the warmth and maternal care that was sorely missing in Aila’s life disabusing her wrong notions of love and sacrifices. In fact, the parts of the story with Ulha teaching Aila and helping her to accept the facts of life was filled with so much joy that it brings a smile to a reader’s face. The way she opens her heart to love emerging strong and confident in her abilities when faced with challenges was a brilliant touch. The Highlands and the description of its scenic locales is definitely a treat for fans of historical romance.
Many Thanks to Net Galley, Text Publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
White ThroMany Thanks to Net Galley, Text Publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
White Throat is book #2 in the Clementine Jones series by Aussie author Sarah Thornton which can be read as a stand-alone. Clementine Jones is on a house-sitting gig in Piama when she becomes involved in helping out Helen who was a mother-figure to her when she was growing up. Helen is on a SAVE THE WHITE THROAT TURTLE mission running the Wildlife Association of The Great Sandy Straits along with a group of volunteers. But Helen’s death classified as a suicide by the Police, disturbs Clem as she hunts for the reason that caused the death of her Auntie Helen.
Clem is an accidental detective who has no formal training but who kind of blunders thru things some legal, but mostly illegal along with her friend Torrens. There are a number of suspects in Clem’s list as she uses her lawyerly skills to ferret out the truth. The Pandora’s box once opened reveals a resort development scheme, locals swindled of their hard-earned cash in one Ponzi scheme or another thus making Clem’s job tough to carry out. Meanwhile Torrens has his own past that comes calling in the form of a gunman.
Frist few pages into the story didn’t excite me much but as Clem begins her enquiries and things become murkier, White Throat became a thrill-ride. I loved the character of Clem who refuses to lie low and accept everything as is, she’s quite determined and loyal to seek out the truth. The story also takes us to the myriad turmoil that disturbs Clementine as she finds it difficult to return to Katinga where she was given an opportunity by the townspeople after her fall from grace.
The author has beautifully woven a complex tale of corporate development against environmental concerns with a brilliant murder mystery keeping everyone on their toes. Love to follow Clementine Jones as she heads off to another adventure.
Many Thanks to Dawn Hill Publications for a copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A contemporary romance by Kyra Radcliff, An UnliMany Thanks to Dawn Hill Publications for a copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A contemporary romance by Kyra Radcliff, An Unlikely Alliance has a billionaire masochist hero pitted against a strong and sensible heroine who is no shrinking violet.
As the mayor of Isle of Blissmore, Katherine James has no reason to kowtow to the obnoxious Tate Reilly but that’s exactly what she’s forced to do as she fights for her brother Keith’s wrongful imprisonment. As Tate forces her to work as his social secretary without being aware of her actual job status, Katherine is subjected to humiliation but once the adversaries take stock of each other and decide to be civil, flames begin to erupt as signs of attraction and desire makes itself known.
Kyra Radcliff writes stories that warms the cockles of one’s heart. An Uneasy Alliance is definitely a romance but there’s also a thread of sibling love that makes it a pleasure to read and enjoy. I loved the simple tit-for-tat game that Katherine forces upon Tate and what is more fun than having a handsome hero who is a billionaire but that he can also cook like a dream. In fact, most of books that I have read by the author has that theme of heroine not knowing the ABCD of cooking but it is the hero who is the master with pots and pans. The concept was a little hard to take in this book as in one scene it is shown that Katherine cannot even rustle up a decent sandwich even after being a caretaker of her brother.
The romance was stirring and the chemistry between the leads hot and potent. For toe-curling romance to cozy up during winter, An Uneasy Alliance is the perfect choice.
Many Thanks to Net Galley, Montlake Romance and the author for a chance to read and review this book.
Mary Burton surely knows to ramp the tension withMany Thanks to Net Galley, Montlake Romance and the author for a chance to read and review this book.
Mary Burton surely knows to ramp the tension with her romantic suspense novels. Near You is book #2 in Montana series which I strongly advise to read in order. The 2nd book in the series carry over from book #1 with the past history of Ann Bailey. Of course, it is no hardship to deduce the facts from the story but I think it would have helped immensely to know her trauma if I had read book 1.
Bryce McCabe is working in his ranch when he’s called for a case of homicide that shows signs of immense brutality and violence. In fact, the gruesome act of deforming the victim was hard to read and process. Ann as a forensic psychologist is called in to profile the killer and becomes involved in the accelerating murders that had so far gone unnoticed. Meanwhile Elijah Weston, recently released from prison, possess a secret that can unravel her recovering life after the events of the past year.
The voice of the killer and the journalist’s case notes interwoven thru the narration of the story adds to nail-biting suspense as Ann fights for her son’s life in addition to keeping herself safe. The writing is smooth and fast-paced which makes it easy to read especially as I had figured out the killer halfway into the book. I wish it was not so, coz the adrenaline rush that should have been the final race to finish was lost and devoid of that spike of thrill, Near You felt flat in parts.
I loved the relationship between Ann and her son Nate. The romance between Bryce and Ann was sweet and a delight to read. Near You is a solid thriller in the romantic suspense genre that is sure to leave the reader thoroughly entertained.
Many Thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What an incredibly written quagmire of a whoMany Thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What an incredibly written quagmire of a whodunnit this turned out to be.
Smita Bhattacharya’s book #1 Kiss Of Salt in Darya Nandkarni's Misadventures series is an exhilarating ride thru the enchanting locales of Goa, a place famously known as the Pearl Of the Orient.
Darya Nandkarni is on a mission to help her father clear out his brother’s house after his demise. Sea Swept, Constellation and Casa de Primavera; the 3 houses that are located in Heliconia Lane hidden away from prying eyes, is a location to die for. Darya arrives in Sea Swept hoping for rejuvenation and recovery after some trying and distraught time in her life. Sea Swept is however hardly the place of solace as Darya confronts the past of a missing Farideh, the wife of her uncle Paritosh. Soon Darya realizes that nothing is as it seems in Heliconia Lane as one mystery after another begins unfolding.
How to know what’s behind smiling faces? We think a smile means happiness…contentment, but it’s only an appearance, a cloak of pretence. Only a child smile when he’s really happy.
There’s romance, there’s suspense, there’s a cold-case investigation, there’s amateur sleuthing, and then there’s the final denouement in the climax a la Agatha Christie style that made this a thumping winner for me. Darya’s character has been so wonderfully etched, she’s flawed in so many ways like many of us trying to find our footing, but she shows grit and determination to untangle the myriad clues and secrets lurking under the surface of this placid waters. Interspersed with beautiful quotes from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, Kiss Of Salt is a book to be savored.
A gripping and brilliant whodunnit, there’s never a dull moment in the story as Darya follows her heart to bring the truth to light. The supporting characters adds an additional layer of enigma as the past of not just Farideh but that of Aaron also unravels.
Looking forward in delight to read all the books in the series.
Many Thanks to Net Galley, Lake Union publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
WendMany Thanks to Net Galley, Lake Union publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Wendy Webb is one of my favorite authors, most of the books that I have read have a gothic element with ghostly presence centered around the very beautiful and peaceful Lake Superior. Now tell me, what would a reader expect with a haunting in the title and that cover image?
So that is my BIGGEST problem with this book. I went in expecting something and ended up with an altogether different experience. The book is classified in the gothic fiction genre but this had more elements of time-travel or a bit of fantasy/sci-fi element in it.
NO..NO…Don’t get me wrong, Wendy Webb’s story that focuses on the trauma of losing someone you love after being their primary care-giver is essentially about the haunting of person by grief. The beautiful town of Wharton comes alive in this loving story of finding joy in simple things and the warmth and unconditional love from strangers. The author shows us the innumerable ways that a community join hands together to help a person suffering from Alzheimer’s, a dreaded disease that destroys not just the person suffering from it but traumatizes all the near and dear ones to insurmountable depths.
The ending did leave me perplexed as to the time scale of events unfolding but for the hopeful and touchy feeling that The Haunting Of Brynn Wilder left me with, this one gets 3.5 stars but I would definitely add an additional half star for the town of Wharton. I just loved the setting so much and would simply love to feel the tranquility that is so beautifully conveyed in this book.
Christine Feehan is an author I discovered in the past year. I have read a couple of them and loved the mysterious elements that keeps me engrossed. LChristine Feehan is an author I discovered in the past year. I have read a couple of them and loved the mysterious elements that keeps me engrossed. Lair of The Lion popped up as a recommendation of the tag ‘Beauty and The Beast’ and whoa, realized that I have read a lot of adapted retellings of the fairy tale.
Liar of the Lion is set in Italy and as such gave me joy coz the gothic element of the castle definitely adds to the menacing and intriguing aura in the story. Isabella is a strong heroine character who braves every hurdle in her path to meet the only DON, Don Nicolai DeMarco who can save her brother from the clutches of the evil man. Every emissary sent to meet the elusive don has had no success as the mountain passes are impossible to cross and Isabella has no choice but to take the arduous journey herself. Her arrival definitely causes a stir as Isabella senses the churning dread underneath the surface of all castle dwellers.
The erotic and sensuous romance was effectively done and the mystifying aspect of the lions inside the castle adds to the thrill factor. It was interesting to see the dilemma faced by Nicolai but the courage with which Isabella faces her destiny was impressive. All the supporting characters were wonderfully portrayed even though the whole heroine facing a danger and the hero rushing to save the day kept going on and on and I was waiting of the unravelling to happen soon coz the middle part of the book felt repetitious.
The culprit when revealed came out of nowhere and I was pleasantly surprised.
A solid read in the paranormal romance genre that was entertaining at best and I am going with 4 stars. ...more
Many Thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What a blessed find this boMany Thanks to BookSirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
What a blessed find this book turned out to be! I have no idea what it is about mystery wills, and unknown properties and a bleak past that always seem to pique my interest and The Aviculturist that comprises all these topics with a beautiful romance and a dash of suspense was simply too good to be devoured in a single sitting.
The title of the book had me stumped in the beginning but once the story unfolds with twists and turns of the past, it felt the perfect title. Lily is back to her childhood home after the death of her mother, to a place that has always haunted her, a place where she lost one half of her family. The secrets hidden by her mother makes her tasks difficult but she begins to find comfort in her old surroundings and seeing the aviary built by the groundsman Joe and the exotic birds and animals thriving there give rise to hope for her future.
This is a story of love that stands the tests of time and the author’s writing was so captivating that parts of Cornwall come alive. It is an exceptional work by a debut author as there’s a perfect mix of all the elements that appeals to a reader like me. There were instances where I thought the surprise element was a bit too much with the convoluted relationships and b’coz I did guess at all the secret threads, it failed to incite the necessary angst reading about Lily and Oliver.
A thrilling debut by Ann Smythe that has provided me with a new favorite author, I will surely be looking forward to read more.
A huge shout out to Blackthorn Book Tours for this grand opportunity to read and review Nothing Good Happens After Midnight. All opinions are expresseA huge shout out to Blackthorn Book Tours for this grand opportunity to read and review Nothing Good Happens After Midnight. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Phew…. Get Set Go for this fantabulous ride to the mix of suspense short stories that will take a reader thru the whole gamut of emotions.
Nothing Good Happens After Midnight is a Suspense Magazine Anthology by various authors with an introduction by Jeffery Deaver which provide succulent short eats or starters before one can pick a full-fledged novel by any of these authors.
12:01 AM BY ALAN JACOBSON: A serial killer is hours away from being lethally injected but Karen Vail, ace FBI profiler needs one last chance with him and save a kidnapped woman. What a start to the anthology. Racing against time with heart in the mouth suspense this one offered a perfect beginning.
CELL PHONE INTOLERANT BY KEVIN O’BRIEN: The title says it all, brilliant in its concept, had a surprising ending.
ALL ABOARD BY HANK PHILLIPPI RYAN: Overnight journey via train, reminiscent of Murder on the Orient Express, this one fell a little short for me coz of my huge expectation.
GONE FOREVER BY JOSEPH BADAL: Heart-breaking and a massacre that can cause nightmares, Gone Forever made my heart bleed.
NIGHT SHIFT BY LINWOOD BARCLAY: Wow, this was a doozy with a twisty end that I never saw coming. Working the nightshift is never gonna be the same again.
MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF DEATH BY HEATHER GRAHAM: What can I say, it is Heather Graham and she can do no wrong in my book. A group of friends on a dare, spending the night in a cemetery, obviously things should go bump in the night and it does spectacularly.
THE SIXTH DECOY BY PAUL KEMPRECOS: A former cop turned a charter fishing boat captain who also works as a pvt. Investigator is tasked to find a missing carved bird but the discovery leads to unforeseen paths. A thoroughly enjoyable tale of righting the scales.
A CREATIVE DEFENSE BY JEFFERY DEAVER: OK, now this one scared the living daylights of me. A sonatina and the effects of hypnotism, how crazy can it get? Brilliant.
AFTER MIDNIGHT BY RHYS BOWEN: Who is going to forget Cinderella and her midnight bargain, but Rhys Bowen has given a beautiful twist to this lovely fairy tale with THEN and NOW versions.
EASY PEASEY BY JOHN LESCROART: Want to be a part of the cool gang? Be careful of the prank you pull at midnight coz there are 1000 ways it can go wrong.
TONIC BY D. P. LYLE: Yes of course it’s a short story but this one will stay with me for a while simply coz of its sheer brilliance. Huh, to enjoy a “WHAT THE” expression at the end!
TONIGHT IS THE NIGHT BY SHANNON KIRK: A Snowstorm, a blizzard, a robot, and a killer on the loose bound with romance. Awesome!
ATM BY JON LAND: A fitting story to end the anthology leaving the reader with hopes and dreams. Touching!
I loved each story in this collection and highly recommend it for all mystery lovers who might discover a new author. Some of the authors in this anthology are familiar to me but I have discovered some new authors that am gonna watch out for.
I am probably in the minority for this book coz I was expecting a 5 star knock me out story and it left me wanting more. C’mon it is co-authored by LI I am probably in the minority for this book coz I was expecting a 5 star knock me out story and it left me wanting more. C’mon it is co-authored by LINDA HOWARD so what should there be, not to like. But sorry to say, this end of the world post apocalypse story just never worked for me as it should have. The dialogues and banter which I was expecting to be a cracker between the leads was kept to the minimum but the romance was slow-burn and super exciting.
Ben is a retired marine whose lonely existence high up in the mountains is exactly what he needs. He hates socializing and community existence and being responsible for anyone after being a witness to the horrors of army life. Sela is shy and extremely reticent to be in the forefront of anything even though she is capable of always doing what needs to be done. When a solar storm hits the world and everyone is plunged into unfathomable darkness, with Ben’s warning, Sela and her aunt rallies the whole community together to survive the loss of power for indefinite length of time. In a way this story kind of related to the pandemic situation we are currently facing with access to everything that we consider normal being shut down and it was hopeful to read about the survival techniques used by the people to fight against the odds. Of course, the going is not easy as the greed and selfishness and even hunger cause the rotters to bound out of the woods and attack the old and feeble.
The story definitely has its moments with a cantankerous aunt proving humor and I simply loved BEN, uh, excuse me but I am a huge fan of super brooding heroes who needs saving and I loved Sela’s quite strength and reliability to lead her people even though she prefers the background.
3.5 stars for this slow-burn romantic suspense.
This review is published in my blog rainnbooks.com, Amazon India, Goodreads and Twitter....more
Many Thanks to the author for a copy of this ARC. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Tracy Sumner is fast becoming my favorite author simply coz oMany Thanks to the author for a copy of this ARC. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Tracy Sumner is fast becoming my favorite author simply coz of the smile she brings on my face. How can one not smile when the first chapter has a heading that goes like this,
Where childhood adversaries argue over a swan
I read the chapter title and knew I was in for a treat and suffice to say, am impressed. Lady Camille Bellington has been in love with Tristan Tierney, the Duke of Mercer, her brother’s best friend ever since they were small. But Tristan has never shown any interest but just when she has safely accepted Viscount Ridley’s proposal to save her aunt’s manor house Tristan is back from war, torn and tortured suffering from nightmares and PTSD.
The meeting however rekindles all hidden emotions in Camille and the disinterested Duke suddenly sees what he has been missing in his life. The story that develops during the time of Christmas is sweet and adorable, the chemistry burning hot causing flamed cheeks.
Tracy Sumner has a way of writing that leaves me feeling happy and contented. Like a box of Swiss chocolates to be savored alone, Chasing The Duke is pure delight perfect for the holiday cheer. There are quite a few instances in the book that while reading I had to pause and appreciate the adroitness with which a simple scene has been made compelling with the play of words. Of course, I loved Camille’s aunt, Lady Isobel Fontaine who provided hilarity with her scheming and innuendo dialogues.
Highly recommended❤️❤️❤️
This review is published in my blog rainnbooks.com, medium.com, Amazon India, Goodreads and Twitter....more
Many Thanks to Net Galley, Random House UK, Vintage Publishing, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed vMany Thanks to Net Galley, Random House UK, Vintage Publishing, and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Snow glows white on the mountain tonight Not a footprint to be seen A kingdom of isolation And it looks like I'm the queen
Ever since I had read An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena, I have been waiting for a similar ‘all strangers inside a locked room thriller and ONE BY ONE, the latest from Ruth Ware is exactly that.
Like the oft repeated mantra in my blog, have a cuppa and enjoy this atmospheric thrill fest. An exclusive French chalet in St Antoine nestled between the Dame Blanche, is cut off from the outside world by the blinding snow and an avalanche. The guests, all employees of a social media company called Snoop had come for an out of office business and pleasure get-together. As Erin and Danny, the chalet caretakers discover to their horror that there’s nothing pleasurable about Snoop.
The wind is howling like this swirling storm inside
The story begins with an introduction to the ABOUT team of Snoop, all 9 of them including Liz an ex-employee and shareholder of the company. As the story unfolds thru Liz and Erin, the reader is given tantalizing glimpses of the mini-camps inside the company and the underneath resentments that explodes out of the cauldron.
Now we are ten Now we are nine Now we are eight
Very soon a partner is missing as the avalanche forces everyone in close proximity and with no means of communication to the rescue team, pointed fingers raising suspicion and discontentment. As the mystery deepens and becomes more darker, someone is picking one guest after another for reasons unknown.
Let the storm rage on
Ruth Ware’s writing is effortless and the claustrophobic terror is conveyed wonderfully even though half of the things regarding skating and techniques were totally Greek and Latin to me. Those were the parts that I really wanted to skip and kind of reduced the panicky intensity in the story. What I absolutely loved is that the story adds to the drama even after the murderer is unveiled. The reveal, honestly feels a tad underwhelming after all that build-up of pressure. However, the final few pages with skiing and chasing had my heart galloping at a breakneck speed.
Winter is almost here, many of the places in the world covered in a vison of white, and this book is the perfect pick for a snow-laden dark night, OK, even without any snow, like in India here, where the crazy weather is playing havoc with my reading thrill! LOL...more
Many Thanks to Net Galley, Quercus Books and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Are You a faMany Thanks to Net Galley, Quercus Books and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Are You a fan of Jane Eyre? If YES, please do read this book without any fail.
NOPE, this is definitely not a story in a similar vein and am really not comparing the two but the absolute aura of the bleakness of Teesbank Hall and its menacing and brooding ambience was perfect for that gothic chill reminiscent of reading a Jane Eyre novel.
Harriet is the governess who is escaping from a dreadful past but the future she’s looking forward to is like jumping out of the frying pan into the fire, literally. Her presence is unwelcome and none of the family members are endearing. Being a governess is also a laugh as Harriet realizes that her charge Eleanor is much more learned than her and her real task is to spy on the young girl and curtail her freedom.
What exactly are the secrets of Teesbank Hall with its loveless inhabitants brimming with hatred towards each other, rumors of deaths and madness circling around them, a sly and manipulative Eleanor, even the servants colluding to hide facts, Harriet finds herself tormented by more than loneliness in what seems to be the remotest part of the earth. It is only Henry the young master of the house who shows some kindness but the friendship also comes at a price.
The story is charged with a sense of disquiet and unease as Harriet’s curiosity give rise to more questions than answers. The gloom and doom foreboding causes a thrill in the reader’s mind as the story becomes more gripping and exciting. A powerful narrative that lures a reader in, The Deception Of Harriet Fleet has one twist after another being revealed leaving the reader in a state of high-pitched anxiety. There’s only the part of child’s murderer being discovered at the end that felt a little off-key but otherwise this was one outstanding Victorian gothic mystery. Highly recommended.
Loading...
