Many thanks to the authors for a copy of this novella. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
3 short stories, that are guaranteed make a reader go crMany thanks to the authors for a copy of this novella. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
3 short stories, that are guaranteed make a reader go crazy. Each story has a professional person in a kind of fix coz of something happening around them.
Let me begin with The Nurse, honestly, 10 min into the story I was so angry and frustrated that I wanted to tear my hair out. Arggh…. I sincerely hope that these kinds of monsters do not survive in this world.
The Teacher is another story that left me feeling even worse than the main character in the story. The knowledge that such terrible abuse of power happens around us is the dilemma that gave me nightmares. It is inevitable to wish for something dreadful when the authorities refuse to listen to facts.
The 3rd story, The Gardener was an absolute eye-opener. It shows us that abuse can be two-ways and that it is not always the man who is the perpetrator.
Each of these stories, The Nurse, The Teacher, The Gardener are a prequel to the crime thriller The Burying Place by the author duo. This appetizer is surely not enough to whet our appetite so make sure you have the copy of the burying place else like me, you are gonna give those pillows a few punches before a feeling of calm can be achieved.
Ruth Ware’s short story SNOWFLAKES is a part of AMAZON’s HUSH collection. I love Ruth Ware, there’s no doubt that she’s one of the authors whose booksRuth Ware’s short story SNOWFLAKES is a part of AMAZON’s HUSH collection. I love Ruth Ware, there’s no doubt that she’s one of the authors whose books are auto-buy for me.
Snowflakes is Ruth Ware’s take on the political aspects affecting a family, and it was interesting to see how a father with his children strives to create a life in an island, albeit in a place that is lonely and desolate. But the children have each other and that’s what matters.
The truth once it is unveiled doesn’t surprise a reader much coz it is fairly easy to guess the direction of the story. There’s a sense of despair that hangs over the entire tale which doesn’t let up even at the end so much that I wished for a happier description to lift the mood.
It was Ruth Ware and probably, my fault, but I expected more punch in this short story.
After reading The House On The Hill by Irina Shapiro, I realized WHY o WHY this book kept popping up in few lists as a MUST-READ recommendation for meAfter reading The House On The Hill by Irina Shapiro, I realized WHY o WHY this book kept popping up in few lists as a MUST-READ recommendation for me. It had all the tropes that usually captures my interest, dual-time line, ghosts, romance and of course that cover image is enough of a sell, in my opinion. YES, of course, there’s numerous covers with a similar image of a woman with the background of a house but I do fall for it ALL THE TIME ...more
Many thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
At a time when one of the largest democracMany thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
At a time when one of the largest democracies in the world is struggling to hold to its socialism and equality to all, this book came across as more than an eye-opener. Here I am, reading about a corporation headed by a megalomaniac named Thorne intent on milking the psychic powers of young children, exploiting them and torturing them for his own benefit and a young girl Natalia fighting against the injustice of everything around her, in reality a young activist was being arrested or more like abducted from her hometown for her courage to speak up in our country.
Knight In Paper Armor is exemplary just coz it is so much rooted in the reality of NOW that parallels can be drawn from each incident happening in the story. Billy Jakobek tugs at one’s heartstrings for going thru the atrocity that is inflicted on him but still managing to retain an essence of goodness. Each and every character in the story has a charm that makes them endearing. Be it the 2 grandmothers, Natalia’s friend Felix, even Roseanna who is manipulated into things which she had no idea about, each of them plays a crucial role in taking the story forward.
The narrative shifts between Roseanna, Thorne, Billy and Natalia which gives the reader a clear picture of the turmoil and obsession that decides the fate of all. I am terribly impressed by Nicholas Conley’s writing as he has used actual incidents from the past and the present weaving a story in the fantasy dystopian genre but the highlight of the story is its YOUTH. In spite of the terrible hardships faced by the youngsters, there’s a sense of hope and belief amongst them in their strength and unity. For them, there’s no inequality based on any criteria, there’s no caste, no creed, no color that separates their thinking and it is this fact that remains in a reader’s mind after the final chapter is done.
Many thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book.
Trust me Guys YOU ARE IN FOR A RIDE with this one.
A paranormal roMany thanks to Book Sirens and the author for a chance to read and review this book.
Trust me Guys YOU ARE IN FOR A RIDE with this one.
A paranormal romance with suspense and mystery with some great characters, Blind Spot is perfect for fans of this genre. There’s also a touch of humor that gives off a good vibe while reading this story.
Tucker is an ex-cop who is dead set on drinking to his death. There’s enough trauma in his life, trying to come to terms with his brother’s death, that the only thing he wants is to be left alone, but Sydney Fallon has already seen this mysterious stranger in her dreams and is not happy about lettings things be.
The small town vibe with a quirky grandmother and a loyal friend adds a lovely allure to this romantic suspense. The demons carried by Tucker are not easy and one can’t help but feel sorry for Tucker as the reasons becomes known to the reader. It is not just the mystery surrounding the death of Garrett but Tucker also has to deal with a past traumatic case of a missing girl and both the threads are tied up wonderfully by the author with a good dose of burning the bed room sheets in between.
I loved Sydney’s character and her ability to deal with Tucker, always making the first move to take the relationship forward. There’s an excessive use of F word in the book which feels natural whilst reading but be warned, if you are one of those readers that feels it objectionable.
Many thanks to Net Galley, Oceanview Publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
FatalMany thanks to Net Galley, Oceanview Publishing and the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Fatal Intent, a debut novel by Dr. Tammy Euliano is a story that is gonna make you think, and think hard. A debatable topic of ending the life of a non-responsive patient is described with such sympathy that as a reader there were parts of the story that made me cry buckets.
DR. Kate Downey, is surprised to know the deaths of her patients after they have been released from surgery. A simple query to the practicing surgeon opens up a can of worms and when approached by Christian, the son of the deceased she has no choice but to check the possibilities of something seriously gone wrong. But Kate is herself not in a good place as she fights for the survival of her husband who has been in a vegetative state and moved to fulltime care facility. As Kate battles her brother-in law in keeping Greg alive, professional turmoil in the form of a vengeful student adds to her woes. The going is not all bleak as Kate finds support from her aunt, Christian and Jenna, a 4th year med student.
As the author is herself a practicing anaesthesiologist, the reader is given glimpses of how cases get handled by the team and the administerial and official policies involved in a hospital, and in spite of all the checks how the greedy ones still conduct their evil acts. As thrillers go, medical thrillers have always been a favourite of mine but honestly it has been a while since I got my hands on one. Fatal Intent has some emotionally charged moments with some brilliant writing that blew me away.
The villains are revealed early in the story as the reader plunges into the investigation concerning the deaths along with Kate but it is the climax with a numbing scene of ‘save or kill’ that left me torn to shreds.
Many thanks to the author for an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
OK I will just get this one point out of the way beforeMany thanks to the author for an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
OK I will just get this one point out of the way before anything else. Is there a magic wand that could be swished and flicked which will transport me to this beautiful house called Pine Tree House, minus the ghosts, of course!
Jean M Roberts novel that has plots of time slip romance weaving thru the historical time of 1690’s and also talking about a painful subject of physical abuse is brilliant. Dr. Abigail Coote is travelling on a deserved break to Portsmouth in New Hampshire after a traumatic event in her life. But her arrival is not all rest and no work that she had envisaged. The ghosts of the past are determined to achieve what they have been waiting for 300 years. As Abbey discovers the truth of her genealogy and her connection to Pine Tree House, the time travel allows her glimpses of the life of young Mary whose married life becomes one of terror.
The story alternates between the present and the 1690’s and the history of the Indian attacks, how the families survived the unrest of those times and the plight of the women to always play second fiddle to the men in their life. Irrespective of the change of times, Abbey discovers that other than the ways of life, nothing much has changed and that human emotions, jealousies, and vying for upmanship and superiority are the basic needs that control a man’s whim. Mary’s life under the brutal hands of her husband and her horrific experiences that continues with no end in sight was absolute pain to read.
The beautiful setting of the story is simply enthralling, so much that I wanted to be in Abbey’s place to enjoy the sights and sounds of New Hampshire. The switching of the time frames as Abbey travels to Mary’s time is quite seamless and the historical details that the author has scrupulously researched provide an authenticity to the enduring tale of love and redemption.
I know… I know… wrong time to read Christmas cheer novel, but I believe that Christmassy stories are the best books to be read whenever one feels the I know… I know… wrong time to read Christmas cheer novel, but I believe that Christmassy stories are the best books to be read whenever one feels the blues, and a story in the historical romance genre is the cherry on the top.
Benjamin, Duke of Silkridge is a man who wants nothing to do with Christmas. As if losing his mother during Xmas was not enough but his father also dies around the same time, but to add salt to the wound, 5 yrs before his only living relative, the maternal grandfather banishes him from Cressmouth and Benjamin wows to never return to the land of all year-round Christmas cheer. Noelle Pratchett, has no plans to fall for the Duke’s charms again but what she wants is not what she gets. As Benjamin and Noelle fight their attraction amidst the most cheerful place on the planet, the best laid plans definitely go awry.
Book # 1 in the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, this was way too sweet and sugary for my liking. I loved the character of Benjamin but the whole Cressmouth/Christmas endless cheer of course was too filmy. Maybe I need a good villain to spice up the plot. LOL!
A plotline with Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol story, Once Upon a Duke is a fun and quirky read that will definitely cheer you up.
Laura Spinella’s Ghost Gifts is one of those surpsring discovery that checked all the right boxes for me.
* Ghosts ✅ * RomancHa, what an exciting find!
Laura Spinella’s Ghost Gifts is one of those surpsring discovery that checked all the right boxes for me.
* Ghosts ✅ * Romance ✅ * Mystery ✅ * Cold case ✅
Sell me a book with a ghost, I will happily gobble it up within a day unconcerned about all the works that is waiting for me... Ghost Gifts has a lovely protagonist who has made peace with her extraordinary gift of being able to communicate with the dead, and found a job that serves her purpose. Aubrey Ellis does not to chase big headlines. She’s fine with her home realty beat covering houses that are on the market for the Surrey City Press. So, when the chief editor offers her a chance to work alongside investigative reporter Levi St. John, to delve into the truth of a skeleton discovered in a basement after 20 years, no one can understand her reluctance. When all the other reporters are scampering for getting the main lead, Aubrey wants nothing to do with the dead girl Missy who has been missing for years together.
The intriguing plot has a fascinating mix of suspense thru the voices of Missy ‘s adventures from 20 yrs. ago. The story gets the additional impetus of the past baggage of Levi that needs to be resolved and Aubrey’s gifts to be explored and believed by him. The romance between Aubrey and Levi develops slowly, there’s no insta-love or insta-connection between the two, in fact, there’s the gradual growth of 2 colleagues working together for the truth, then to friends, to finally understand the connection between them. The resolving of personal issues in both their lives goes on till about three-fourths of the book, so until the end there’s only ‘romance in the air’.
The relationship between Aubrey and her grandmother Charley has been explored lovingly. For a ghost story, the paranormal elements aren’t scary but the final chapter had me with heart in my mouth rushing towards the epilogue.
Thrilling and exciting, highly recommended for fans who love ghosts and mystery!
Many thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A contemporary romance, Love and Hate is aMany thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A contemporary romance, Love and Hate is also a story that reinforces the old adage about “thinking before acting”. A moment is all it takes for a decision to be made and it requires only a moment for that decision to leave a lasting effect.
Alia is grieving a lost love and is in Delhi, trying to find her own feet away from her parents who have no problem in giving all kinds of leeway for the boy in the family but has trouble thinking in the same lines for their daughter. Finding the love of her life was more about emphasizing the independence and the words of caution by her brother and her parents left no impact.
Alia and Vikrant are characterized so well, the depiction so real that I could imagine opening the door of my apartment and seeing 2 people exactly like that. As the story develops and Rahul is introduced, the readers along with Vikrant wonder about the truth of everything. Nothing is as it seems as the mystery linking the three of them unfolds. Equal parts romance and equal parts mystery, the author has beautifully interwoven the suspense within the plot.
Love and hate is a short story but it is definitely well-packaged. There were parts that I felt could use some editing works else the story flows smoothly.
Many thanks to Joe at Sunbury Press for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Dead On The Delta is book #5 in Many thanks to Joe at Sunbury Press for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Dead On The Delta is book #5 in the Alexa Williams series but is perfectly good to be read as a stand-alone. How can I say? Well of course I am reading book # 5 to begin with in the series and didn’t miss out on much except a few references here and there about some past incidents.
“That's the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet.” Jhumpa Lahiri, The Namesake
To say that I am beyond thrilled after reading the adventures of Alexa in Botswana would be an understatement. Books are magical simply coz of the journey they allow us to make without moving in an inch. Imagine going on a 3-4 hours safari without stepping a foot out of your house. Sherry Knowlton has captured the wilds of Botswana flawlessly so much that when Alexa and Reese along with their friend Mo watch the pride of Lions, I could see an image so vivid and bright that it was dazzling.
Alexa is on leave from her daily job as a lawyer and is helping out her boyfriend Reese in his project in Africa wild research. The crux of the story matter begins in the first few chapters, that of the massacre of elephants for their tusks. As Alexa, Reese and Mo discover to their horror, the scavengers are waiting for their meal and the scene is beyond gruesome and cruel. The greatest advantage of the writing is in creating the pitch perfect setting of the book as along with Alexa, one takes bumpy rides and feel the warmth of the sun. It is, however, not just the poaching and the endangering of the species that the readers are made aware of but there’s in depth discussion about the politics governing the Wildlife Conservation in Botswana.
The middle segment of the story with Alexa’s meeting and her voluntary activities were exhaustive in description and too tedious for my understanding. Alexa finds herself in a number of dangerous and life-threatening situations but her cool demeanor helps her carry forward. The mystery element of the book was not surprising as it is fairly easy to guess the poachers but the hostage situation at the end clearly elevated the ending to a thrilling one. The relationships with a sweet romance between Reese and Alexa and the attraction that Harry feels for Alexa was beautiful.
In all, Dead On The Delta is an exciting safari ride educating the readers about the wildlife and the danger to the animals. Looking forward to catch up with all the books in the series.
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India and Twitter.
I’m so behind my reading schedule that I had to go pick a totally random book out of the blue to calm myself, can you believe anything crazier than thI’m so behind my reading schedule that I had to go pick a totally random book out of the blue to calm myself, can you believe anything crazier than that?
Linda Howard has become my go to author of late. Being a huge fan of romantic suspense genre, I hadn’t read many books by this prolific author, so it is catch up time for me. After The Night, ahem, is a book that would probably set anyone’s pants on fire, it is kinda all weirded, all screwed up story with a alpha beta gamma hero to the hilt ogling a 14 yr old heroine, no seriously it was totally freakish. And of course, the less said about the caveman attitude, rough and tough bruising manhandling type of love being described, the better. But honestly, if you are a fan of such romance books with heroes who are jerks to the nth degree, surely you will love this book.
I loved it coz it was exactly the sort of reading break I was looking at and Linda Howard definitely knows to ramp up the heat with the sexual chemistry between the leads. ...more
Many Thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A fantasy novella, The Count’s Son by TobiMany Thanks to the author for a chance to read and review this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
A fantasy novella, The Count’s Son by Tobias Gavran has an attractive plot. Thomas is grieving the loss of his parents but after a night’s sleep, he wakes up in a place completely alien to him. In the alter universe, his parents are alive and magic rules the world.
With the help of an assistant Aliska, and his friend Tallovan, Thomas understands the daily grinds of this new place and a chance encounter with an alchemist opens his eyes to the truth of his identity. But danger soon follows as Thomas becomes Tom and accepts his fate.
The story is quite interesting and even though it’s a novella, the characters are detailed and I was able to connect to the turmoil faced by Thomas. There are areas like the history of the Wildlanders that required a little more detail into the story but overall, The Count’s Son is a fast paced uniquely plotted exciting adventure of Thomas.
The Governess Gambit is the prequel to The Duke’s Heist, the new The Wild Wynchesters series by Erica Ridley and what a delicious prelude the beginninThe Governess Gambit is the prequel to The Duke’s Heist, the new The Wild Wynchesters series by Erica Ridley and what a delicious prelude the beginning turned out to be.
With the colorful set of characters that the author has introduced in this prequel, I can’t wait for the release of book #1 next month.
Baron Vanderbean is a man with a heart of a gold. The six children he has adopted, each of them talented in their own ways helps Bean in multiple ways to achieve tasks that may seem impossible. This short story introduces Chole and her siblings and their rescue mission to save orphan children.
The Duke of Faircliffe is once again just introduced into the story and looking forward to the joyful tale of Chole and Faircliffe.
A huge shout to damppebbles Blog Tours for this opportunity to read and review Forgotten Lives by Ray Britain. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.A huge shout to damppebbles Blog Tours for this opportunity to read and review Forgotten Lives by Ray Britain. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Book #2 in the DCI Doug Stirling Series, Forgotten Lives is a thriller that has its focus on a variety of topics. Ranging from human trafficking to the plight of cost-cutting measures in the police force, the author Ray Britain has spaced out his thriller not just in UK but even taking it across the borders to France.
DCI Doug Stirling is roped in as a SIO of a crime investigation that at first glance offers no motive. Stirling’s team is soon roped in to understand a murder that has no rhyme or reason except for a small badge left on the scene. As the enquiries begin, bodies begin piling up and the pressure of the investigation that holds political ramifications takes a toll on the lives of each and every police officer involved.
This is not a thriller that grabs you by the throat from the first page, in fact for a thriller Forgotten Lives is quite sedate in its pace. The author gives a detailed picture of every step of the investigation as a vigilante killer begins to target sex offenders. DCI Stirling is a character that grows on a reader as we are given accounts of the sacrifices in his personal life too. The impeccable research by the author is clearly evident as there’s enough information about the cross-agency data collection and the sharing of the particulars among the different police forces that streamlines an enquiry.
Forgotten Lives needs to be given time to savour the minuscule titbits that has been intricately plotted into the story line that has no chapter titles. In fact, the separation of the story using TIME as marker accelerates the thrilling element leading to a stirring conclusion. My only wish was that there was a different epilogue scene than that was given coz the coldness of the female character was quite unappealing for me.
A solid 5 star read that can be read as stand-alone as I didn’t feel like missing out anything for not having read the first one in the series. Extremely well-written that feels as authentic as it can be, Doug Stirling is also a man coveted by most females in his vicinity a la James Bond style. In fact, most scenes in the book are perfect for a TV adaption as the scenes are etched crystal clear for the reader.
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.
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