Betharad, the steward of Naerun, is about to be inaugurated at the Deliverance Ceremony. But she’s worried. Can she live up to the legacy her parents Betharad, the steward of Naerun, is about to be inaugurated at the Deliverance Ceremony. But she’s worried. Can she live up to the legacy her parents left behind? Before the ceremony can begin, chaos erupts, causing the death of a Councillor.
With the postponement of the ceremony, it is now up to Betharad, Marshal Kavilas and the other councillors to discover what happened and who’s behind this murder. Was it the strangers who were seen lurking around earlier that morning or someone more nefarious?
I was intrigued and enjoyed this story from the moment I started reading this fantasy. Well-written and with great world building, it was easy to follow along and visualize the scenes as described by the author. Though I didn’t read this book every day, it was easy to get back into the story whenever I picked it up again. There’s also a twist near the end that I was not suspecting.
I would have liked to have seen a little bit more of Betharad and Kavilas’ relationship. I don’t want to give too much away, but it is suggested at one point that the two spend some time together and not “talk shop”. According to the story, they had dinner together. I personally thought this would have been a nice scene to have experienced rather than be told it was a nice time through dialogue. In any case, there is a second book in this series which I’m interested in reading.
If you enjoy a well-written fantasy adventure, I recommend The Hungry Fire. ...more
Recycled Marriage by Rosemary Mairs is a compilation of short stories revolving around relationships. But if you’re hoping for some happily ever afterRecycled Marriage by Rosemary Mairs is a compilation of short stories revolving around relationships. But if you’re hoping for some happily ever after or comedic relief, you won’t find that here. There’s a bit of a darker side to these stories, some with tragic endings while others a little more shocking.
For the most part, I enjoyed the stories in this book. They are well written and compelling. There were a few however that I found confusing. I felt like pertinent information was left out in some stories in order to make it more mysterious but instead, it made the story unclear. I also think some dialogue tags would have made it easier to follow in a couple of the stories that were dialogue heavy. With that said, this is a good book with lots of interesting tales. ...more
Frank Reeves and Samantha Blake are hired by Raina Sanchez, the wife of rap star Bobby Sanchez a.k.a. Da Bess, who’s gone missing. Taking off on his oFrank Reeves and Samantha Blake are hired by Raina Sanchez, the wife of rap star Bobby Sanchez a.k.a. Da Bess, who’s gone missing. Taking off on his own isn’t unusual but after ten days with no word, Raina is worried. Frank takes on the case, leaving Samantha to the research and interviews. Afterall, she’s not a private investigator yet, and last time they worked a big case, she almost got herself killed.
The missing persons cases soon turns into a murder mystery when Reeves finds Bobby’s body in a hotel room with his tongue cut out. Now Reeves has to find out who did it and why before the murder is pinned on someone else.
Bad Rap is the second book in the Reeves and Blake Thriller. Much like the first, there is plenty of intrigue and action throughout the story, though PI Reeves takes the lead in this novel. It’s well written and fast paced.
In the novel, Blake and Reeves are working on another case prior to being hired by Raina. There seems to be some loose ends to that part of the story though the case is mentioned in the epilogue. However, I feel like it might come up again in a subsequent book. I also felt like the ending was a bit rushed, in particular how Reeves came to the conclusion who the murderer was. Despite that, this is an enjoyable read, and I do recommend this book to mystery and thriller fans. ...more
Laeticia, Ivan, and Francis, three individuals unknown to each other, embark on a ten-day vipassana course in Thailand. Ten days of silent meditation Laeticia, Ivan, and Francis, three individuals unknown to each other, embark on a ten-day vipassana course in Thailand. Ten days of silent meditation to reflect on their lives and hopefully restore peace within themselves.
Leonora Meriel pens a different kind of story in, And Breathe. Each chapter is devoted to one character and invites the reader to get inside that particular character’s head as they work through the ten-days of meditation. Readers are taken on a guided tour of what the character is feeling as they focus on their breath and body. But it is when their mind wanders and they ruminate on their past does the reader learn what brought them to this silent retreat in the first place.
I enjoyed this well written and intelligent read. While there’s quite a bit of narration, the style works for this novel. There’s enough action within the character’s heads, as well as some outside, to move the story at a decent pace. And the ending was completely unsuspected. ...more
The vivid nightmares that used to haunt Madie Hayes as a child have returned with a vengeance. But she’s determined to understand what they mean even The vivid nightmares that used to haunt Madie Hayes as a child have returned with a vengeance. But she’s determined to understand what they mean even if her stubbornness puts her in harms way.
Chelsea Grey is learning to trust again, and her rekindled relationship with her high-school sweetheart has moved to the next level. But an unexpected circumstance and her stubbornness threatens to alienate her from him at a time when she needs him most.
Storm Dreamer is the final book of The Crossing Trilogy. With new characters and old, this story did not disappoint. June V. Bourgo pens a wonderful story about two strong and independent women who find themselves in life-altering situations. Well written, this page turner leads to a satisfying ending.
While this book can definitely be read as a standalone, I recommend readers start with book 1 to get the full experience of this intriguing trilogy. ...more
Twelve-year-old Charlie and her older brother, Peterson, have mysteriously found themselves in another land after Peterson is hit by a car. A3.5 stars
Twelve-year-old Charlie and her older brother, Peterson, have mysteriously found themselves in another land after Peterson is hit by a car. As it turns out, Charlie has magical powers, something that many people have in the world they’ve found themselves in. Charlie soon learns that her powers may just be what her new magical friends need to help save them. And hopefully one of the magical beings will soon help the siblings to go home.
I appreciate the work the author put into this story. It is well written and has an interesting storyline. Dialogue is believable and there’s great detail in the world building. The beginning drew me in, but unfortunately, the middle of the book was where I found it difficult to stay interested. The extraneous information meant to paint a detailed picture of the fantastical world of Jorde pulled me from the story. And telling rather than showing kept me from enjoying it thoroughly. I will say, however, by the last few chapters, I felt the plot was back on track, and it had a satisfying ending for a story that continues on to the next book. ...more
For a year, Roxanne Fausch has been in hiding. Moving from one place to another to keep the scientists who experimented on her preternatural abilitiesFor a year, Roxanne Fausch has been in hiding. Moving from one place to another to keep the scientists who experimented on her preternatural abilities from finding her and locking her up again. As they draw close, Roxanne uses her abilities, ones she doesn’t fully understand, to fight them off. She has so many questions about her life. How could her mother have abandoned her at the facility? Why are they so interested in her powers? Who can she trust?
This is a fast past paranormal adventure story with a strong female protagonist and lots of surprises. Well written, the novel is action packed. Great world-building and strong characters make it an easy and fun read. I recommend this book to anyone who likes to read paranormal novels. ...more
Bullied by her step-father and the kids at school, the peace-loving, hippie wannabe Joy Chappelle escapes her reality by getting high. When she attendBullied by her step-father and the kids at school, the peace-loving, hippie wannabe Joy Chappelle escapes her reality by getting high. When she attends a concert on her own far from home, her fantastic adventure turns into a frightening nightmare.
I enjoyed this coming-of-age story by Laurie Woodward. It is well written with good mix of characters to love and hate. I felt sorry for Joy and despised those who treated her like dirt. It was easy to get lost in the story and root for this teenaged underdog, hoping she’d come out stronger for all her tribulations.
This was a good story, but I did find the ending abrupt, and I wanted more. It feels like Joy’s story is to be continued, and I hope so. Because I’d like to know what happens next. ...more
Samantha Blake has taken a job working for Private Investigator Frank Reeves. Though an office assistant, Sam dreams to be an investigator herself oneSamantha Blake has taken a job working for Private Investigator Frank Reeves. Though an office assistant, Sam dreams to be an investigator herself one day. And while most of the investigative work revolves around surveillance, Sam is happy her boss is giving her training in the field. But Sam will soon find herself caught up in something bigger and more dangerous than surveillance. When a serial killer decides to leave “trophies” of his victims at the office, Sam and Frank find themselves hunting a killer and hoping they’ll catch him before he kills again.
This is the second novel I’ve read by Robert Lalonde and it did not disappoint. Great descriptions made it easy to imagine the scenes depicted. Sam and Frank are well developed characters, with Sam’s abilities pleasantly surprising me. The antagonist in this novel is pure evil. The story had good pacing and had a satisfying ending.
Looking forward to reading more of the Reeves and Blake Novels. ...more
Set in the 1960s in the East end of London, the rivalry between the Larkins and the Saints has been going on for decades. As these two crime families Set in the 1960s in the East end of London, the rivalry between the Larkins and the Saints has been going on for decades. As these two crime families try to one-up each other, Chaz Larkin finds himself in the middle. Growing up with poor eyesight and a club foot, has made him the target of bullies not only from the Saints but even within his own family. All he wants is out, but will someone save him, or will he have to take matters into his own hands?
I really enjoyed this novel by Pete Adams, and I have to say, I learned a few new words too. The story is a combination of wit and seriousness. The action never stops and there are twists you won’t see coming.
I look forward to reading more in this series. ...more
Ralph Thyme has just found out he has an older sister, Olivia, who was adopted at birth. He hires a private investigator to track her down but not becRalph Thyme has just found out he has an older sister, Olivia, who was adopted at birth. He hires a private investigator to track her down but not because he wants to have a relationship with her but because he wants to kill her. Afterall Olivia stands to inherit half of their grandmother’s fortune, and Ralph wants it all to himself. After killing the wrong Olivia, Ralph develops a taste for murder and rape.
Detective Croft has a mystery to solve as murdered and mutilated bodies lead him on the hunt to catch a serial killer. But will he discover who is behind these gruesome killings and will Ralph Thyme find and kill his sister?
Sarah Stuart pens an interesting tale in Shattered Lives. I enjoyed this book and with every murder, hoped Ralph Thyme would soon be caught. He is despicable, though there are a couple of other characters who, while they didn’t commit murder, were just as heinous. The author did a fine job sketching out these evil characters.
I did find that it’s not the sort of story where you want your mind to wander for even a second, especially during dialogue. There are no dialogue tags which sometimes lead me to rereading a sentence or two in order to understand who was speaking, which ultimately slowed the pace. I also found the use of single quotation marks to indicate dialogue difficult to spot, as it seemed to blend in with the text at times, and I really had to pay attention.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers, give this one a try. But be aware that this story does include detailed descriptions of murder and rape and also deals with the trauma of pedophilia, and may be triggering for some readers. ...more
Anna has left her abusive boyfriend in Texas and moved in with her older brother, Jeff, a doctor in New Orleans. He’ll take care of her and get her baAnna has left her abusive boyfriend in Texas and moved in with her older brother, Jeff, a doctor in New Orleans. He’ll take care of her and get her back on her feet, even if it means agreeing to see a therapist and going back to school. Jeff isn’t going to support her forever, and she wants to pay him back for everything he’s done. And then there’s Jeff’s friend, Ethan, who’s also a doctor. He’s charming, sweet and sexy, the only problem is Anna’s brother doesn’t want her to get involved with him, though Anna doesn’t think it would ever happen anyway. She’s too plain and uneducated. But as Anna eases into a fresh start, something strange is going on. Is there anyone she can trust? And worst of all can she trust her own eyes?
This book hooked me on the first page, and I found it difficult to put down. Even I didn’t know who Anna could trust. Turning the page was like turning a corner, you just never knew who might be lurking, friend or foe.
Duplicity is fast-paced and easy to read psychological thriller, with just enough detail to set the scenes. Great dialogue captures the individual personalities of the characters. I particularly enjoyed reading Franny’s dialogue, a minor yet fun character.
If you enjoy psychological thrillers, this is a good one. ...more
Gordon Bickerstaff has done it again with this latest installment of The Lambeth Group Thrillers. This time the Lambeth Group, headed by Zoe Tampsin, Gordon Bickerstaff has done it again with this latest installment of The Lambeth Group Thrillers. This time the Lambeth Group, headed by Zoe Tampsin, is charged with the task of stopping suicide bombers. With the help of an informant, Zoe and her team track down the bombers, but something is amiss. Can Zoe trust the informant or is something else going on?
I’ve only read the last two books of the Lambeth Group Thrillers but will happily add the others to my TBR list. Bickerstaff’s great writing and attention to detail makes it easy to envision the scenes he depicts, and the characters are well written.
Extreme Prejudice is a thrilling story full of action, deception, and surprises. Spy thrillers aren’t a genre I read very often, but this author is making me a fan.
Dazed and Confused, Briony makes her way through Glasgow Central Station and heads to work. Nothing makes sense. She soon learns she’s been missing foDazed and Confused, Briony makes her way through Glasgow Central Station and heads to work. Nothing makes sense. She soon learns she’s been missing for the last five and a half days, and worse she has no recollections of where she’s been or what’s happened.
Author Zach Abrams weaves quite a tale in this psychological thriller, and I enjoyed every minute of it. And while I had my suspicions as to whom the culprit might be, the reasons behind it all was a mystery. There are a few twists, and this page turner quite literally had me stunned with a jaw dropping revelation in the last chapters of the book.
This novel has all the mystery, gaslighting, and jealousy that great psychological thrillers should have. Don’t miss out on 133 Hours....more
The adventure continues when Abby, Rory, and Finlay return to her time after finding her mother and escaping the caves. When they go home, they find tThe adventure continues when Abby, Rory, and Finlay return to her time after finding her mother and escaping the caves. When they go home, they find that Abby’s father is now missing and they are the only ones that can save him.
I enjoyed reading this second book of the trilogy. The characters are endearing and it’s fun to see Rory, a medieval teenager, learn about Abby’s present-day world. This is a great read for a YA audience (or anyone who likes to read YA). The story is well written and full of adventure with some interesting characters and twists. The world building is also well done, and I can easily picture the scenes in the book.
I look forward to reading the final book in the trilogy and to discovering the rest of the mystery surrounding Abby. ...more
Alan wakes up in bed beside a woman–his wife. Funny thing is, he remembers dating her in college many years ago and that’s it. Now they’re married andAlan wakes up in bed beside a woman–his wife. Funny thing is, he remembers dating her in college many years ago and that’s it. Now they’re married and have a six-year-old son, another mystery. To top it all off, he no longer looks like the 60-year-old man he remembers being. In fact, he’s a much younger version of himself. Can he learn from the mistakes of his past in this strange and altered reality?
A Second Chance to Get it Right is the fifth novel I’ve read by Author Ronald Bagliere. I truly enjoyed this story of Alan who is somehow getting a second chance at making the people he loves a priority. This tale runs the gamut of emotions. It’s funny, clever, tender and an overall joy to read. Bagliere knows how to take his readers on an intriguing journey and immerse them into his novels. A Second Chance to Get it Right is a satisfying read from beginning to end....more
Bullied most of her life, no one seemed to even notice, or care, when 16-year-old Pheobe disappeared after a party in 1966. But almost 20 years later,Bullied most of her life, no one seemed to even notice, or care, when 16-year-old Pheobe disappeared after a party in 1966. But almost 20 years later, she has caught everyone’s attention when she shows up at their high school reunion. And while it seems Pheobe is out for revenge, the truth will soon be revealed.
This is the first book I’ve read from Author Susan Wüthrich, and it did not disappoint. The story caught my attention in the first chapter. While it takes place within two different time periods, it was easy to follow. Well-crafted, Wüthrich brings her characters to life in this intriguing mystery. ...more
It’s 2035 and deadly storms are ravaging Arizona and quite likely the rest of Earth. But the Donovan’s have an escape. Their church group has built anIt’s 2035 and deadly storms are ravaging Arizona and quite likely the rest of Earth. But the Donovan’s have an escape. Their church group has built an underground bunker and that is where they plan to go for as long as possible. 22-year-old Shea has no plans on living underground with her parents, even though she’ll miss her little sister. On the day they are to leave, Shea’s father asks her to help find her older brother, Jace. Jace is an addict who can’t take care of himself and must go to Daeios. But time is ticking and another storm is on its way. In the eleventh hour, Shea finds her brother, unconscious and strung out. She gets him home in time for the family to leave and ends up going with them to their new underground home. Once at Daeios, it doesn’t take long for Shea to realize things aren’t as they seem. Will she survive living underground with her family? Will she survive living in Daeios: 140 Feet Down?
Daeios is author Colleen Eccles Penor’s debut novel and it’s a good one. The book hooked me right away with its interesting story line and fast pace. The main characters are likeable and the villains absolutely despicable. There’s even an unexpected twist or two.
I did find near the middle of the book that the story lagged. It was at a point where the main character is alone for a few days. For about three or four chapters, I think the author missed the opportunity to get the readers into the character’s head with showing rather than telling. However, after those few chapters, the story and pace pick up again with lots of action that will keep a reader turning the page.
I recommend this action packed post-apocalyptic sci-fi. However, there is some disturbing content so best for readers over 18 years. ...more
Dancing In The Wind: Journey To Freedom by Sandra Jackson is the exciting final installment of the EscaReviewed By Tammy Ruggles for Readers’ Favorite
Dancing In The Wind: Journey To Freedom by Sandra Jackson is the exciting final installment of the Escape trilogy, a medical drama with the main character April and her family going back to the origins of her nightmare. Impending winter, a virus, mysterious whispers, and feelings of claustrophobia created by a building all play into her feelings of physical and psychological entrapment. April's memories are positive and negative, but she has to find a way to deal with them or lose her mind completely. Things get even more interesting when she discovers that the narcissistic and ludicrous Cecil has been placing secrets inside her subconscious and created the virus. She relies on her parents to help her uncover the unknown, but it may not work. It's a race to see who will get to this information first: a person from her past or her parents? It's clear April is in jeopardy and yearns to be free, and you will be intrigued and immersed in her journey as she finds her way back to what is most important to her.
With a talent for scene-setting, descriptions, and tension-building, Jackson takes her readers and sets them right down inside the world and minds of her characters. Using first-person POV is a wise choice for the telling of this psychological drama. It brings you inside April's mind. The vivid imagery also solidifies the believability of the story, and you find yourself caring so much for what is happening to April and what the outcome will be. I like how the author describes her anxiety, as it creates empathy and connectedness with her audience. Her explanations of Butterflies, The Butterfly Flu, C.E.C.I.L., etc., give information to readers without a lot of info-dumping, allowing the story to flow and breathe without interruption. I appreciated the backstory scenes, making the tale well-rounded, and the energetic dialogue adds freshness. Suppose you're into psychological medical thrillers with exciting characters (Beth, Noah, Caleb, and others) and an intriguing plot with a supernatural twist and joyous moments, too. In that case, you will be an instant fan of Dancing In The Wind: Journey To Freedom by Sandra Jackson....more
When 17-year-old Benjamin finds an abandoned little girl, he takes her home to his foster parents for safety until they can find the mother. And so thWhen 17-year-old Benjamin finds an abandoned little girl, he takes her home to his foster parents for safety until they can find the mother. And so the mystery begins. Who is this little girl? Why did the mother leave her all alone? And more importantly, where is she?
This book started off strong for me. It is well written with very little typos, easy to read, fast paced, and has an interesting premise.
When Benjamin didn’t take the little girl to the police (he did think about it) my first thought was the story would be about him trying to prove his innocence. I was wrong. I’m a bit of a stickler for believability and while I really wanted to enjoy this story, there were just too many things I found unbelievable. I kept on reading because I wanted to know what happened to the mother and why she didn’t return for her daughter. But suddenly, and with no foreshadowing, the last twenty percent of the book turned into something darker with a supernatural twist. And the mystery I was following was no longer part of the story. ...more
Beth has a lot on her hands, running a vineyard and winery with her grandfather. Not only is she trying to keep the family business afloat, but her teBeth has a lot on her hands, running a vineyard and winery with her grandfather. Not only is she trying to keep the family business afloat, but her teenage son seems to find himself in trouble more often than not. And when a nearby business owner suddenly offers to buy her farm, Beth is more determined to make the business work. She’s not going anywhere. Besides, she’s rented out the guest house to a famous author for six months, and they could use the extra income. What Beth didn’t expect was to fall in love. But will a murder on the property ruin her chance for happiness?
This is the second book by Joy Lynn Goddard that I have read and it did not disappoint. The story has a nice flow and it is well written. There are a number of characters in this novel, each with a distinct personality and the author does a great job describing each one. There are also a few surprising twists which make the story even more interesting.
I am quickly becoming a Joy Lynn Goddard fan and recommend this novel. ...more
Miracles are everywhere; we just need to look around to find them. A chance encounter brings the main characters Chris and Jason together. Th4.5 stars
Miracles are everywhere; we just need to look around to find them. A chance encounter brings the main characters Chris and Jason together. Their love for each other is strong, but when tragedy strikes, will Chris be able to make it on her own?
Miracles Not Included is a sweet story about love, loss, and finding the strength to go on. This love story is a fast-paced, page turner with wonderful characters. I do wish this book was a bit longer as I found it a difficult to get emotionally invested in the characters despite the touching nature of the story.
This is the first book I’ve read by C.A. King and I look forward to reading more of her works. ...more
Growing up in the ghetto is tough. And when John’s mother sends him off to military school, he is left feeling like he isn’t wanted anymore and so begGrowing up in the ghetto is tough. And when John’s mother sends him off to military school, he is left feeling like he isn’t wanted anymore and so begins his journey into depression.
When the Rain Stops by John Callas is thought provoking, emotional, compelling and despite its serious nature, has a smattering of humour. The author interjects some insight as he tells his real-life story about his early years, the bullying he suffered, the injustices he witnessed, and his attempted suicide.
I noticed while reading this story that there were people who reached out to John, and showed him they cared in every step of his journey. I felt like they were true guardian angels for him, and while John couldn’t see it at first, there was always someone on his side, wanting to help. Thankfully, he came to this realization. He met people who showed him a different way of thinking, and he took that positive energy and turned his life around for the better.
This truly is an uplifting story and I believe this perspective may help someone who is struggling. ...more
Agnes Lockwood returns to the Millenium Hotel in Tyneside, her childhood home, after visiting her sons in Australia. While she was supposed to stay inAgnes Lockwood returns to the Millenium Hotel in Tyneside, her childhood home, after visiting her sons in Australia. While she was supposed to stay in Australia a few weeks longer she cuts her trip short. Tyneside has a hold on her and besides, she misses Alan. It was only a few short months ago, that she helped Alan, the detective chief inspector, solve a murder, a string of robberies, and was almost killed in the process. But on her first day back in town, Agnes makes a gruesome discovery while visiting the city park. She’s stumbled across a body, and it looks like Agnes once again finds herself in the middle of a crime scene.
I quite enjoyed this 2nd book of the Agnes Lockwood Mysteries by Eileen Thornton. The mystery was interesting and the twist near the end definitely caught me by surprise. I found both Agnes and Alan endearing. The author did a great job showing the chemistry between them as well as the duplicitous nature of the villains.
If you like straightforward mysteries with unsuspecting twists, you’ll enjoy Death on Tyneside ...more
When Tom hops on a train for London in July 2020, in the middle of a pandemic, he never thought in his wildest dreams that the traiRunning Behind Time
When Tom hops on a train for London in July 2020, in the middle of a pandemic, he never thought in his wildest dreams that the train would transport him to 1982. Believing the only way back to the 21st century is to travel on the same train for home, he catches the train hours later for the return trip. On board, he encounters Beth. A young woman on her way to visit her aunt. But when the train goes dark and she touches his arm, Beth inadvertently travels with Tom back to 2020. And getting her to believe the world is a different place than the one she left behind, is going to take some time.
This time-slip story by Jan Turk Petrie is a fun read. I found it well written and the storyline held my interest. There are some surprises along the way that I didn’t see coming. But one of the biggest surprises was the abrupt ending. It felt like there should be more, and it would be a lie to say I wasn’t a bit disappointed. I’m hoping there’s a second book in the works. If there is, perhaps the author should consider adding book 1 so readers understand the story continues. ...more
Retired operative, Zoe Tampsin, is back on the case when she learns her protégé has gone missing. Back with the Lambeth Group, Zoe and her team discovRetired operative, Zoe Tampsin, is back on the case when she learns her protégé has gone missing. Back with the Lambeth Group, Zoe and her team discover there’s a lot more to the story they’ve been told.
This is the first book I’ve read from Gordon Bickerstaff, but it won’t be the last. The Belgravia Sanction is the 8th book of the Lambeth Group Thrillers but is easily read as a standalone.
I was hooked on this story from the first line of this action-packed book. There was a lot to like about this novel from the great writing to the kick-ass team of powerful women. These ladies don’t take crap from anyone. Great world building made this story come to life, and it was easy to imagine.
If you like spy thrillers, action, and espionage, check-out The Belgravia Sanction. It will not disappoint....more
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