My Book Reviews

Category: Book Reviews

This section categories all the posts that I have written for my book reviews.

Creatures of Chaos by Ashley Brandt

Creatures of Chaos by Ashley Brandt

Release: March 08, 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishing
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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Life in Justice-Peace just got a little more interesting.

Casey Allen has a green thumb. Max Kinkaid is the high school football star. Debbie’s in a band. Parker is a serial-dater, and Finch is the science- whiz turned prankster. When these unlikely friends are forced to collaborate on a group project, they discover their talents go beyond their high school personas.

Casey can call the plants, growing and twisting them to her satisfaction. Nicholas Finch commands the animals, and Parker Watts can summon the fiercest of storms. Max Kinkaid has dominion over the four winds, and Debbie Fairfield can rock your world, literally!

Are these five an evolved species of human or the legacies of the gods?

Hunted by greedy scientists, these clever teens combine their extraordinary gifts to gain their freedom…but it will cost them the only lives they’ve ever known!

About the Author:

Ashley Brandt is a Paramedic and an author living in North Texas. When she isn’t reading or writing, Ashley enjoys hiking, swimming and photography. Ashley is a coffee addict and spends as much time at the bookstore as possible.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Creatures of Chaos Review:

“Creatures of Chaos” is a fun start to the “Chaos” series, and I enjoyed the concept.

Firstly, I loved how creative the author got with the tale, and I felt I was reading a mix of “Stranger Things” meets “One Tree Hill.” The author does a lovely job of blending young adult drama with paranormal elements, and it was fun to see how our protagonists tackled their newfound powers. Each character stands out with their unique personality and ability, and it was a treat to see how they reacted to the situation and the villain who also learns of it and targets them.

Secondly, I liked Casey in the lead and her dynamics with Max, Debbie, Parker, and Finch. Moments that stood out from the story are when she bonds with Max over the Venus Flytrap or her conflicted relationship with Debbie. The author also added elements from Greek Mythology elements to the tale, and it was fun to see how it affected our characters.

Moreover, there is never a dull moment because so much happens in each chapter. Even if you skip a sentence, you miss something important. The author packed a lot into this novella, and I wondered what would happen next.

However, on that topic, my only criticism of the story is that the book needed to be longer and faster. It would have been interesting if the author added more details to the world-building or how the teens got their powers. The pacing is usually fast; hence, we didn’t get time to invest in the characters, including the villain.

Apart from that, I enjoyed “Creatures of Chaos” and am keen on reading the next book in the series to find the next adventure that awaits our group.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Creatures of Chaos by Ashley Brandt Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.

April 29, 2023
The Journey by Conrad Jones

The Journey by Conrad Jones Book 1

Release: February24,2018
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Red Dragon Publishing LTD
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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The Journey is a must-read thriller. The gripping story of a young boy and his family, driven from their home by war and indiscriminate violence. Like millions of others, they attempt the treacherous journey across their war-torn continent, trying to reach the safety of Europe. The truth is, Europe doesn’t want them and thousands die every month at the hands of thieves and profiteering men to whom life is cheap. The story is fast-paced, at times heart-breaking but it will pull you along at 100 miles an hour. It will make you think and it will make you question your perception of refugees.
Most of all it will make you ask if your family was in peril, what would you do

“If you’re looking for something to open your eyes, break your heart, and look to take action to promote change, start with The Journey.” Tiffany Hall – Beyond The Stars
“I have never read a book before where I have had to stop reading because I couldn’t cope with the emotions the book engendered in me but the author writes so powerfully that I HAD to finish it.” Joanna Lanum – Guest Reviewer
“Such an intense, chilling and eye-opening novel which is guaranteed to leave you utterly speechless.” Kaisha Holloway – The Writing Garnet
“The plot line is superb and the characters are brilliant and really help carry the story forward.” Donna Maguire – Donnas Book Blog
“It had me captivated until the end. An easy, fast-paced read!” Gemma Myers – Between The Pages Book Club

About the Author:

Conrad Jones spent 12 years working for the biggest quick service restaurant brand in the world.

On March 20th 1993 the IRA terrorist organization bombed the shopping center outside the restaurant he was managing that day. The experience fueled an interest in the root causes of extremist terrorists and the reasoning why its perpetrators feel justified in taking innocent lives. That incident sparked the story of ‘Soft Target’.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

The Journey Review:

There are books you read that make you appreciate your life because you read the turmoils that the characters go through, knowing this happens in reality. I loved Kalu and his family in the story and was rooting for them to escape danger. Kalu does everything to protect his family, and some scenes just broke my heart because of how people took advantage of him. He has a beautiful relationship with Esse, and his children, Beb, Kissie, Oke, and Isime. Each of them goes through some ordeal, and I liked Beb and how he initially wanted to grow up so fast before he witnessed the horrors. The supporting cast is also memorable; I loved Alice, and my heart went to her.

The author’s strong point is being bold and gentle with the storylines and not sugarcoating them for the reader. Some memorable moments were when Beb goes to save the woman when Kalu sees what happens to Beb, or the exciting climax where you wonder what would happen to the family. Moreover, the author also writes the landscape so realistically. You see how horrible and selfish even people like the shopkeeper become when water becomes an expensive commodity, and people use any advantage to make a quick buck. The story also ends in a shocking way that makes you immediately want to pick up the next book to discover what happens to these characters.

Overall, “The Journey” is a fascinating start to the series, and I wonder how the author would top it up in the continuation.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Journey Home by Conrad Jones Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.

April 29, 2023
It Happened on Saturday by Sydney Dunlap

It Happened on Saturday by Sydney Dunlap

Release: February 21, 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Jolly Fish Press
Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound

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Thirteen-year-old Julia would much rather work with horses at the rescue barn than worry about things like dating and makeup. But when her BFF meets a boy at camp, Julia’s determined not to get left behind. After a makeover from her older sister, she posts a picture of herself online and gets a comment from Tyler—a seemingly nice kid who lives across town. As they DM more and more, Julia’s sure that Tyler understands her in a way her family never has. Even better, their relationship earns her tons of attention at school.

Then Julia finds out Tyler’s true plan, and her world is turned upside down. She fiercely guards her secret, but could her silence allow her friends to fall into the same trap?

In this timely, heartfelt debut, author Sydney Dunlap tells a story of a middle-school girl who narrowly escapes becoming a victim of human trafficking and must find her way toward hope and healing after this traumatic event.

About the Author:

Sydney Dunlap is a former elementary school teacher who has worked with at-risk youth in a variety of settings, and she enjoys reading and writing heartfelt, hopeful fiction that expands young readers’ awareness of tough topics. She is a published poet and has also written for a newspaper.

A lifelong animal lover, Sydney lives with her family in a home where the dogs and cats outnumber the people.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook

It Happened on Saturday Review:

Click to view on Instagram

Firstly, this book is one that all tweens and young adults should read. The author has beautifully showcased the dangers of human trafficking and how even someone knowledgeable can be impressionable at that age and trust anyone. Moreover, this is not just a book for teens; anyone of any age can feel inspired by reading, as trafficking could happen to anyone if they fall for the wrong person.

Julia is excellent in the role, and I loved how the author portrayed her realistically. Even after the incident, you see how self-conscious and guilty Julia feels for putting herself in that situation and how society can ostracise her even though she is the victim. Another reason why I enjoyed this story is that the author also gives valuable tips on how to deal with stress and anxiety. I loved reading about the therapy sessions that Julia attends and found them helpful to implement in my life.

The author also wrote the supporting cast well. I enjoyed Julia’s bond with Nori and how she feels like the third wheel when Nori finds someone new. Even with characters like Maria and Gabi, it was interesting to see how Julia tested fresh waters when she searched for new friends. I also loved the complex relationship between Julia and her parents and how she has trouble bonding with her mother for various reasons. One of my favorite moments was when her father talked to her about his past experiences, and they connected.

Overall, “It Happened on Saturday” is a realistic middle-grade fiction, and I recommend everyone check this out.

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the It Happened on Saturday by Sydney Dunlap Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours.

Book Tour Schedule

February 20th
ReadandReviews-Review

February 21st
Stuck in Fiction – Interview
Jen Jen Reviews-Review

February 22nd
Boys’ Mom Reads!-Review
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review

February 23rd
Kait Plus Books-Interview
Confessions of a YA Reader-Promotional Post

February 24th
deepireads-Top 5 Reasons to Read It Happened on Saturday & Mood Board
Unconventional Quirky Bibliophile-Promotional Post

February 25th
The Book Dutchesses-Interview
Paiges of Novels-Review

February 26th
The Nutty Bookworm Reads Alot-Review

February 25, 2023
Oscar of the Bismarck by Frances Y Evan

Oscar of the Bismarck by Frances Y Evan

Release: 9th December 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishing
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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Oscar the cat served on the German warship, Bismarck, as well as several British ships during World War II.
When they built new battleship Bismarck ,launched and commissioned, Oscar is there to witness it all. Crew soon accepts Oscar and he becomes the ship’s mascot as they embark on their mission.

Narrated from Oscar the cat’s point of view, he describes life at sea, the battles and the fate of his shipmates, as well as his own personal challenge to outwit, hunt and capture an elusive, sneaky, grey cat with little black ears!

A wonderfully emotional and uplifting story, told from a very different perspective!

About the Author:

England was Frances’s childhood home. She emigrated to the United States with her family as a teenager many years ago.
Frances has been a storyteller for as long as she can remember with her first audience consisting of neighborhood playmates sitting on the curb listening to her tall tales.

She has visited numerous organizations, upon request, to speak about The Forgotten Flag, her first published work, and continues to visit classrooms at local schools to meet students who have read the book as part of their American History curriculum.

Frances worked for twelve years at Staples High School in Connecticut in the English and Social Studies Departments which provided the perfect environment to inspire her love of history and writing. She has self-published several books, The Brass Bell, The Curse of the Shark’s Tooth, and Oscar of the Bismarck which are young adult stories, as well as St. Katherine’s Dock: Target Tower Bridge adult historical fiction. While working at the school, she prepared presentations for teachers to enhance their curriculum and subject matter when it pertained to British history. These have included the Elizabethan Era to better understand the time of Shakespeare, the Victorian Era to portray the time of Charles Dickens, and World War II – the British Homefront.
When her mother passed away several years ago, she decided that her story must be told. Vera’s Story: Hidden Scars of War tells the tale of a not so ordinary, ordinary woman whose memories of war were never far below the surface.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

Oscar of the Bismarck Review:

“Oscar of the Bismarck” is a short but beautiful historical adventure that takes us back to significant events of World War II, and I enjoyed it.

Firstly, let me preface by saying that I didn’t know much about the German Battleship Bismarck before reading the tale. After reading the book, I researched the same, and I admire the author for adding the details to the story with a personal touch that made you feel like you were with the crew on the ship. The story is never dull as the author adds the pivotal battles that the battleship endured against the British. Some exciting moments that stood out were when Hitler appeared, or we met Kommandant Lindemann.

Secondly, I loved the way the author also told the story from various perspectives, one mainly from a cat! Oscar is adorable and seems to understand what the German crew tells him. Even though his mission is to get rid of the mice and a particular rat on the ship, he takes his job seriously and feels like he is also fighting his battles like the others. I loved the concept of Oscar in the tale and thought the author executed it beautifully. Moreover, I loved Oscar’s relationship with Steffan, and one of my favorite scenes is when Steffan takes him back home for Christmas and Oscar meets the family. The author captures Steffan’s ambitions and emotions so nicely that gave the book a nice touch.

Overall, “Oscar of the Bismarck” is a lovely book, and even though I am not a cat person, I fell in love with Oscar.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Oscar of the Bismarck by Frances Y Evan Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.

February 4, 2023
Ragman by JG Faherty

Ragman by JG Faherty

Release: 10th January 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Flame Tree Press
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads

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If you love a great horror tale with ancient mummies, a deluded priest and two oddball cops, then you’re in for a treat…

In 1882, a group of British soldiers plunder an Egyptian temple and kill the high priest. The priest vows revenge. And he is finally revived in the present day.

He finds the great-grandson of the man who killed him. But they form an uneasy partnership to get back all the stolen artifacts. And they also send all the descendants of the other soldiers to the Underworld.

Two police officers, former partners who had a falling out, must put aside their differences as they go from trying to solve gruesome, unexplained murders to risking their lives to stop the supernatural mummy the priest has called forth.

About the Author:

A life-long resident of New York’s haunted Hudson Valley, JG Faherty has been a finalist for both the Bram Stoker Award® (THE CURE, GHOSTS OF CORONADO BAY) and ITW Thriller Award (THE BURNING TIME), and he is the author of 8 novels, 11 novellas, and more than 75 short stories.

He writes adult and YA horror, science fiction, paranormal romance, and urban fantasy.

He grew up enthralled with the horror movies and books of the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s, and as a child his favorite playground was a 17th-century cemetery. Which explains a lot.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |Goodreads

Ragman Review:

I always enjoyed Egyptian mythology and horror, and “Ragman” perfectly blended the two. From the get-go, I knew the story would not bore me as a new monster unleashes in New York City. The author also adds adventure, mystery, and drama into this fast-paced thriller, where you don’t know who the next victim would be on the Ushabti’s target list. Each chapter had something shocking happening, and I wondered how far the author would go regarding the kill count. I loved the premise of the Egyptian priests, incantations, and protection spells and felt each chapter had something new and exciting.

Moreover, I enjoyed the drama between Dan, Tom, Joanna, and Stacey. In the beginning, they are hostile and uncomfortable with one another, and you wonder what happened. The author slowly reveals the incidents while showing how they must get through their differences to work on the case. I loved Tom and Dan’s relationship and thought they worked so well. Stacey is also great in her research on Egyptian mythology, while Joanna adds her flair to the drama, especially in her conversations with Beth. There are multiple villains in the story, and it was fun to see how they all had their agendas. Chad got on my nerves, while Peter frightened me with how far he would go to execute his plans. The author also takes the story to a thrilling climax where some scenes, particularly with Dan, blew my mind.

Overall, “Ragman” is a great mystery, thriller, and fantasy horror with Egyptian mythology, and I enjoyed reading it!

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Ragman by JG Faherty Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours.

February 4, 2023
Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer
Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer

Release: November 15, 2022
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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In the fragile balance of life, there is one birth, one death, one time to tell those you love a final farewell…

Victor Gant’s life is abundant with blessings. Although his mother was an Osage Indian slave, he is a valuable member of the French and German community of Ste. Genevieve, Missouri. As the town blacksmith he makes a proper living for himself and beloved sister. All Victor’s dreams come true when he marries the only woman that had ever caught his eye.

But blessings can be fleeting. When the Civil War erupts in 1861, Victor will have to make choices. Torn between doing what’s best for his family or following his conscience, between keeping promises or following his heart…to finally bestowing an agonizing blessing of his own.

Victor’s Blessing is a journey from the patent offices of Washington, D.C. to the battle of Wilderness to the infamous Andersonville prison, where in order for Victor to keep one promise, another must be broken.

About the Author:

Barbara Sontheimer has a B.A. from a little college in the bootheel of Missouri and spent 15 years researching and writing Victor’s Blessing while raising 3 children. A fascination with the everyday life of the people not battles was the driving force. One of her greatest hopes for her novel is that someone turns out the light a bit too late on a work night, or (like she did) occasionally hid from her kids in the laundry room to finish a chapter. Barbara is married and lives in Lake Ozark, Missouri.

Website | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon

Victor’s Blessing Review:

“Victor’s Blessing” is a beautiful historical romance drama that will touch your heart.

I was skeptical about picking up this book because of its sheer size. The length is twice the average book, and I hoped the story would retain my interest. The story immediately drew me in with its drama between the three main characters, Ethan, Celena, and Victor. There is so much between these three, and I could not put it down! I was curious to see how their relationships transpired over the events they encountered, whether in business or War.

While the book title says Victor, Ethan was the person who connected to me. Ethan is, in some ways, the most complex character I have read as of late because my feelings for him fluctuated so much. Sometimes, I despised him for his relationship with Penelope, but at other times, my heart went out to him for not having the one person he desired. While I read the tale, I wondered if his friendship with Victor would stay strong. However, my favorite character in the story was Penelope. I adored all her hardships, particularly with Abigail and Ethan, and was rooting for her throughout. Even though she appears only for a portion of the story, she significantly impacted me. The author also addressed her mental health issues realistically, and some scenes shocked me, like the burning of her clothes.

The author also touches on key moments of history, like the Camp Jackson affair and the incidents of the Civil War, and blends them into the plot. Even the supporting cast, like Laurence, Yvonne, and Carlene, was memorable (I thought Carlene’s complaints about Mason were hilarious).

Overall, “Victor’s Blessing” is a touching historical drama that will make you fall in love with its characters.

Tour Schedule:

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.
- Pages and Pups-Dec. 8th
- Reading Is My Remedy-Dec. 20th
- Rozier Reads and Wine-Jan. 5th
- Christina Luvs 2 Read-Jan. 14th
- A Court Of spines n pages-Jan. 15th
- Novels N Latte-Jan. 15th
- Just Another Mother With Books-Jan. 15th
- Rajivs Reviews-Jan. 16th
- Subakka Bookstuff-Jan. 20th
- CMT Loves Wine and Books-Jan. 23rd
- Books And Beabulls-Jan. 30th
- Books and Coffee MX-Jan. 31st
January 16, 2023
A Reservoir Man by L.J. Ambrosio

A Reservoir Man by L.J. Ambrosio

Release: May 3, 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Film Valor
Source: Rockstar Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads , Kindle

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Everywhere Michael turns he sees a Reservoir Man.

Born with a birth defect leaving a scar on his lip, Michael’s endless trials of survival include sexual assault, The Vietnam War, an arrest in Spain, Hollywood scandal, the AIDS outbreak, 9/11 and beyond.

If only Michael could find the one thing he values most, his freedom. Michael’s coming-of-age is tarnished by many but the courage to live his truth may just keep Michael one step ahead…or will he succumb to the embraces of a Reservoir Man?

A Reservoir Man, critics have hailed this explosive and timely work as

“a must-read coming-of-age story of 2022.”

Twists and turns further pull the reader in to Michael’s action-packed tale, with powerful themes, from betrayal and family to secrets and identity.

“Be sure not to blink because you just might miss a pivotal moment in Michael’s rousing, larger-than-life story.” — R.C. Gibson, Indiestoday(dot)com.

“This book is a dream, a gamble, a utopia, even.” — Kalyan Panja, Bookmarkks.

About the Author:

Louis J. Ambrosio ran one of the most nurturing bi-coastal talent agencies in Los Angeles and New York. He started his career as a theatrical producer, running two major regional theaters for eight seasons. Ambrosio taught at 7 Universities. Ambrosio also distinguished himself as an award-winning film producer and novelist over the course of his impressive career.
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Tumblr | YouTube | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

A Reservoir Man Review:

“Reservoir Man” was a beautiful biography-like tale of a man who deals with his sexuality and tries to find a bigger purpose in life as he grows up in the 60 and 70s.

I enjoyed reading about Michael’s life and how the author portrayed the details of his life. Even though this is a fiction tale, I felt I read the biography of someone I would know in reality. Michael is a complex character who tries to find something more meaningful. He always has a helpful nature but gets disappointed when people see him as an object of desire. I also felt the author portrayed the gay culture of the 60s and 70s realistically, where we see the ‘Reservoir’ men trying to date each other while also living dual lives. There are many exciting subplots, and I particularly enjoyed the corporate feud with Gail. Some moments also had me glued to the pages, like the shocking incident of what happens to Michael in Spain and how he needs Nick’s help to get him out of the predicament.

Speaking of Nick, some of the supporting cast are also memorable. I particularly liked Michael’s relationship with Nick and Wade, as the author made them a staple for quite a few chapters. Michael also shares a lovely bond with Frances. However, his bond with Susan was my favorite, and I loved how she was by his side.

My only criticism is how there are quite a few unnecessary side casts and details. For instance, we would read about some characters who Michael encounters briefly, only to see them disappear a few paragraphs later.

Nevertheless, “A Reservoir Man” is a lovely coming-of-age story where we, a man, endure emotional hardships in his search for solace, and I liked it a lot!

Giveaway Details:

1 winner will receive a finished copy of A RESERVOIR MAN, US Only. Ends January 24^th, midnight EST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on A Reservoir Man by L.J. Ambrosio Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

Book Tour Schedule

Week One:

Mythical Books-Guest Post or Excerpt/IG Post-1-9-2023
Lady Hawkeye-Guest Post or Excerpt /IG Post-1-9-2023
#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt /IG Post-1-10-2023
Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post or Excerpt /IG Post-1-10-2023
Two Chicks on Books-Guest Post orExcerpt-1-11-2023
A Dream Within A Dream-Guest Post or Excerpt -1-11-2023
Review Thick And Thin-Review/IG Post-1-12-2023
Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-1-12-2023
@flying_through_books-IG Review-1-13-2023
Quirky Night Owl-Review -1-13-2023

Week Two:
Jeff_of_allmedia-IG Post-1-16-2023
Lifestyle of Me-Review-1-16-2023
the book near me-Review/IG Post-1-17-2023
@froggyreadteach-IG Review-1-17-2023
Pick a good book-Review/IG Post-1-18-2023
@carlysunshinebooks-IG Review/LFL Drop Pic-1-18-2023
@secretrhs05 -IG Review-1-19-2023
Books and Zebras -IG Review-1-19-2023
The Momma Spot-Review/IG Post-1-20-2023
OneMoreExclamation-Review/IG Post-1-20-2023

January 12, 2023
Her Husband’s Lies by T.J. Brearton

Her Husband’s Lies by T.J. Brearton

Release: December 15th 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Joffe Books
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon
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A GRIPPING PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER FROM THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF GONE. Callie has a great life, living in a ten-acre home in the Adirondacks with her husband, Abel. Their son is away at college and Callie, a writer, is content living a relatively secluded life. Then Abel skids off the road into an icy lake. No one heard anything. No one saw anything. But Abel remains in a coma in a Vermont hospital. Things seem bad but they’re about to get even worse. Now Callie is getting calls from a woman who claims to know more about the accident. Callie is skeptical, though a few things do line up, and she’s always wondered why her husband was where he was at the time of the accident. Then every spouse’s worst nightmare: police tell Callie her husband is a suspect in the disappearance of two teenage girls. Callie will do whatever it takes to clear his name. But is she really ready for the truth about her husband . . . ?

About the Author:
T.J. Brearton is a bestselling novelist and screenwriter. He is the author of the novels Gone and Dead Gone, both of which have ranked among Amazon Kindle’s top 100. His Titan trilogy has been an international best-seller. With Ted Magee, Brearton wrote Bare Knuckle, a martial arts film, and wrote and directed Breathe, about amateur MMA fighter Lane Buzzell on an undefeated streak. He has written more than a dozen novels, mostly crime thrillers, including one paranormal mystery, and published short fiction in numerous literary journals. He lives in the Adirondack Mountains of New York with his wife and three children where he writes full time, takes out the trash, and competes with his kids for his wife’s attention. T.J.’s latest psychological thriller, HER PERFECT SECRET, won the Next Generation Indie award for Suspense in 2022. Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Her Husband’s Lies Review:

Firstly, I enjoyed the premise of the story and the way the author described it. A man in a coma, a wife searching for answers, and a psychic giving clues in bits and pieces. The story grabbed my attention right from the beginning. While the pacing is slow, I liked how it adds to the suspense and makes the tale atmospheric.

Callie was fun in the lead. Yes, she sometimes got on my nerves because of some bad decisions, like going to Nathan’s house alone and doing things before confronting Footman. But I enjoyed how she searched for answers about Abel’s life. On the other hand, Althea was my favorite character. The author wrote her so well that we see how conflicted she gets over her abilities, and she sometimes doesn’t trust them. I enjoyed the concept of alternative memory and how the author described it. The supporting cast, like Footman and Cormac, also added nicely.

Quite a few moments also had me at the edge of my seat, like Callie finding herself trapped when they go to the cabin or when she gets uncomfortable in Nathan’s house. The author writes the suspense well, and you get quite a few red herrings and twists you don’t see coming. I also liked how the story sets the premise for a continuation, which I would love to pick up if we have a continuation! The side story of the missing girls also blended well.

Perhaps the only downside is how some subplots didn’t have any progression, like Cynthia, and some characters disappear in the background in the latter half.

Overall, I immensely enjoyed “Her Husband’s Lies” and hope the author writes a sequel.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Her Husband’s Lies by T.J. Brearton Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours,

December 17, 2022
The Family Trap by Lorna Dounaeva

The Family Trap by Lorna Dounaeva

Release: December 4th 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Inkubator
Source: Zooloos Book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon
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Prudence welcomed Zoe into her home. Now she’s fighting to survive. Two simple words shatter Prudence Ahern’s world – “I’m pregnant.” Her son Nathan is only eighteen when his new girlfriend Zoe drops that little bombshell. Prudence feels she has to support her son and asks Zoe to move in with them. Right from the start, Prudence knows something isn’t right. When Nathan is around, Zoe is sweet and funny but as soon as it’s just the two of them, she becomes menacing and sullen. Worse still, Prudence becomes the victim of a series of increasingly dangerous accidents which begin soon after Zoe moves in. She tries to warn her son that something is wrong with Zoe, but he refuses to listen, so it’s left to Prudence to figure out what’s going on. Who is the mysterious Zoe? What exactly does she want from them? And whose child is she really carrying? Filled with shocking twists and diabolical secrets, The Family Trap will keep you up all night. If you loved Gone Girl, The Silent Patient and The Girl on the Train, you will devour this utterly addictive thriller.

About the Author:
Lorna Dounaeva has a Masters in European Studies and used to work at the Home Office before turning to crime fiction. She lives in Godalming, Surrey with her husband, three children and a crafty cat. Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

The Family Trap Review:

“The Family Trap” is a unique suspense thriller with a distinctive concept that I enjoyed reading.

Firstly, I enjoyed the premise of this thriller. It surrounds the dynamic between a mother and her son’s girlfriend as the girlfriend gets pregnant and moves in. I liked the tense dynamic between Prudence and Zoe. Prudence feels protective towards her son Nathan when Zoe enters their lives. Zoe creeped me out immediately, especially with the weird emails she sent to her father. The author adds a few quick twists and shocking deaths that I did not anticipate. Some surprising moments in the tale are the incident in the nursery when Prudence is present or when we find out what happens to Bob.

Prudence is my favorite in the story, and I admired how she managed to give Zoe multiple chances, even though she suspected her of foul play. Even the supporting characters like Heidi and Alana were memorable. Heidi also got on my nerves as she took Zoe’s side more than Prudence’s, even though she is supposed to be Prudence’s close friend. The author makes all the characters memorable because they behave and do things you don’t necessarily approve of, but you understand their intentions.

Perhaps the only minor criticism was how the story went on a different tangent toward the climax. While I liked how the author gave a twisted ending, looking back, it did not justify why some of the characters behaved that way.

Overall, “The Family Trap” starts slowly but has a fast-paced second half with a surprising ending, making it worth reading.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Family Trap by Lorna Dounaeva Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours,

December 17, 2022
I’m Following You by Emily Shiner

I’m Following You by Emily Shiner

Release: December 11, 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Inkubator books
Source: Zooloos book Tours
Find it at: Goodreads

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Amanda has the perfect life. But someone wants to end it.

Amanda loves her life. She’s a highly respected doctor, and she lives in a beautiful home in the best neighborhood in town.

But her perfect life begins to crumble when she notices a woman in a red car following her. Then this mysterious person begins an increasingly disturbing campaign – stalking Amanda, even invading her home and office.

Amanda is terrified and feels as if she is under siege. As far as she knows she has no enemies. So who is this strange woman? And what does she want?

As the interloper’s behavior becomes more and more threatening, the conflict between the two women moves inexorably towards a fateful confrontation.

When dangerous secrets and shocking lies are revealed, there’s no turning back. One of them will pay the ultimate price.

About the Author:

Emily Shiner always dreamed of becoming an author but first served her time as a banker and a teacher. After a lifetime of devouring stacks of thrillers, she decided to try her hand at writing them herself. Now she gets to live out her dream of writing novels and sharing her stories with people around the world. She lives in the Appalachian Mountains and loves hiking with her husband, daughter, and their two dogs.

Website | Facebook | Tiktok | Instagram |Goodreads

I’m Following You Review:

I have read a few of the author’s other psychological thrillers, and I liked how she writes each chapter to keep you guessing about each character’s intentions. In this book, I kept wondering if Collette was right about Amanda or if Amanda was hiding something. The author nicely paces the story with concise chapters, where you know something is off with one of them and try to guess the possibilities of what could happen. The ending surprised me completely, and it made the story worth reading.

The two main characters balance each other nicely. Frankly, I liked Collette even though she does some weird stuff with Amanda to mess up her mind. You know she is yearning for the loss of Arabella and tries to make her life better by going to grief counseling. The author also added interesting passages with the concepts they talk about during grief counseling, like intrusive thoughts and your subconscious communicating with you. On the other hand, Amanda got on my nerves because of how scatterbrained she came across. She is supposed to be this intelligent doctor, yet she doesn’t consider installing security cameras when she suspects someone is following her. She does nothing except wait like a target for her mystery person to attack her, which irked me.

However, the story could have been better. It started strong and ended well, and while it had exciting moments, it staggered in the middle. For a while, nothing happens much except for how Collette does something to scare Amanda and then tells Jackson about it on a loop. The story could have been trimmed in certain places and added more twists.

But “I’m Following You” is a fun, guilty pleasure read and worth checking out if you like short psychological thrillers with surprising, twisty endings.

Book Tour Schedule

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on I’m Following You by Emily Shiner Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos book Tours.

December 17, 2022