My Book Reviews

Category: Drama

  • The Journey Home by Conrad Jones

    The Journey Home by Conrad Jones

    The Journey Home

    The Journey Home by Conrad Jones Book 3

    Release: March 27, 2023
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Red Dragon Publishing LTD
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    The saga continues with Kalu in grave danger in London, while his son Beb flies into rebel-controlled Chad with his wife and baby. They’re trying to cross the border into Nigeria to find his long-lost sisters in Monguno. This story will drag you along at 100mph as each perilous journey unfolds and it exposes the  horror of each situation. Is this family cursed or can they find each other and a peaceful existence?
    “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 Home Review:

    “The Journey Home” is a satisfying conclusion to the series and equally as good as the first two books.

    While the second book was probably my favorite in the series, I enjoyed how the author concluded the series in this book. Once again, I loved the multiple storylines, where Jet targetting Kalu and Kissie on one end, Beb and Amira on a dangerous journey to go home, and Isime and Oke adjusting to their life back in Monguno. This book stood apart from the other two because of Oke and Isime. I adored the humor the author added to their dialogues and how lighthearted some of their conversations were, even amidst the chaos.

    Moreover, the author also adds a touch of adventure to each chapter. You think the horrors of the previous two books are over, but our characters are always on the lookout and encounter life-threatening situations. Beb and Amira’s story was also interesting, and I enjoyed Omar as the supporting lead. Similarly, Nazia’s storylines were heartbreaking, and seeing how raw the author described the scenes was shocking.

    The only reason why I didn’t enjoy this as much as book two was because of Kalu’s storyline. The earlier books were gripping because they tackled realistic situations that the characters faced, like amidst the Russo-Ukranian War or the challenges they faced in Africa, including a potential pandemic. However, the arc with Jet, while entertaining as it was, felt a tad fictional (like reading a James Bond novel) and didn’t resonate with the series’ theme. Nevertheless, I still enjoyed the storyline and found the scenes very entertaining.

    Overall, you must read the entire series in order because they are gripping, wonderful, and makes you appreciate life and family. It is one of my favorite series I have read this year!

    Book Tour Schedule

    The Journey Home

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

     

  • The Journey Back by Conrad Jones

    The Journey Back by Conrad Jones

    The Journey Back

    The Journey Back by Conrad Jones Book 2

    Release:June13,2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Red Dragon Publishing LTD
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    The Journey Back is the blistering sequel to The Journey. Kalu is a doctor, who escaped an extremist revolution in Nigeria. He tried to get his family across the Sahara to look for passage to the safety of Europe but they were duped by ruthless people traffickers and his wife and two daughters were lost at sea. Fast forward twenty-years and his daughter, Kissie is in Ukraine when Russian tanks cross the border and his family are in terrible danger again. What the reviewers are saying;

    “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 Back Review:

    This series is just so hard to put down! After reading the first book, I was excited to get my hands on “Journey Back” to see how the Sammi family saga continued.

    The author outdid himself in the plot, and I loved the multiple storylines. On the one hand, Kalu has an imposter as a son who has returned and is involved in shady activities, and you wonder how much torment Kalu cant take. On the other hand, we have Kissie, who has grown and has her life in danger in Chornobyl amidst the war between the Ukrainians and Russians. Then, we also learn that Oke and Isime are alive in Mongumo and at risk because of a new pandemic eradicating their friends and family. But what happened to Beb? Well, he has his storyline that is also gripping with family drama! The author wonderfully toggles between each arc and progresses it so beautifully!

    It’s hard to choose which storyline I liked because I enjoyed them all, although I loved Kalu and Kissie. I loved how the author portrayed the various emotions Kalu faces, knowing what happened to Beb. Similarly, the author makes the story relevant by adding elements of the Eusso-Ukranian War into the plot. He portrays the scenes so realistically that I felt like I was reading entries of a journalist who witnesses the tragedies happening there. I loved this book more than the first, and I don’t know how the author would top it off in the sequel. On a side note, Katouh was also sizzling as a supporting character, and I hope he is more prominent in the next book!

    Overall, “Journey Back” is a fantastic continuation, and if you haven’t read the Journey Novels series yet, you must check it out!

    Book Tour Schedule

    The Journey Home

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

     

  • The Journey by Conrad Jones

    The Journey by Conrad Jones

    The Journey

    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

    The Journey Home

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

     

  • Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer

    Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer

    Victor's Blessing

    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:

    Victor's Blessing

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Victor’s Blessing by Barbara Sontheimer Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

  • The Ugliest Man on the Mountain by Mark Laming

    The Ugliest Man on the Mountain by Mark Laming

    The Ugliest Man on the Mountain

    The Ugliest Man on the Mountain by Mark Laming

    Release: July 1st 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Blossom Spring Publishing
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon,

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    Amber McCarthy is a young woman with a high IQ and a well-paid job, but it is never enough for her and she seeks the thrill of planning and executing the perfect burglary.

    On meeting wealthy businessman, Kane, her life changes and she relishes the challenge to win his love.

    A new enemy at the door plays havoc with her plans and Kane moves to Andalusia.

    With just one last chance of rebuilding their relationship, Amber believes she has the answer.

    A thousand miles away in Spain, Kane has a shock in store for Amber that changes everything.

    Author Bio:

    My passion has always been writing and I am unable to imagine a day without putting the laptop through its paces. As a young boy I remember hiding in the wings of my father’s theatre in Harrogate, staring in awe at the actors rehearsing for a show that he had written. Irrefutably, a tiny slice of his magic, thankfully, rubbed off on me and became the catalyst for my storytelling.

    To date, four of my novels have seen the publishing and I am in the process of writing another one. I have written over two hundred short stories of which and BBC has broadcasted four of them. More recently I have become a regular contributor to a Dorset magazine group. My interests include horology and being grandfather to four colourful characters who continually test my mind and bank account!

    I got nomination for The People’s Book Prize 2019 for my novel ‘Shadow with Nowhere to Fall’. The patrons are Frederick Forsyth CBE and Founding Patron: Dame Beryl Bainbridge. The last couple of years have been a busy time for me with local BBC radio interviews. I have also been featured as a guest on the American Author’s Show.

    Finally, as many authors will confirm, it is a long and bumpy path getting published. If I had my time again, would I choose writing as my first love? You bet I would!

    Website | Facebook |  Twitter |Goodreads

    The Ugliest Man on the Mountain Review:

    There are many aspects that I enjoyed about the story. Firstly, I adored Amber and thought the author wrote her strengths nicely. Initially, she comes off as somewhat of a kleptomaniac. However, as the story progresses, you see her facing challenges and changing her life for the better. Some of my favorite moments were when she interacted with Liz or when she first met Toni.

    Similarly, I appreciated the focus on charity and how the author emphasizes it in the plot to help homeless people. Amber comes up with pretty innovative solutions to help with funding options with the storyline, and I liked how the author executed it. Moreover, the story includes some genuinely lovely people who don’t have any ill intentions, like Liz, James, and Toni. The book had a lot of cozy moments, which is a nice change from the

    The main criticism of the tale is the relationship between Kane and Amber. Their romance felt rushed, and I didn’t get why Amber kept going after Kane and was madly in love with him, even though they had just met a few times, half of which he was curt with her and quickly lost his temper. Also, Kane was a mixed bag for me. While I felt terrible for him on the one hand for what he goes through, on the other hand, I was not too fond of his attitude and the way he had high expectations of everyone. Frankly, I liked Jason more than Kane because Jason at least spiced up the story with his antics.

    Nevertheless, “The Ugliest Man on the Mountain” is a fun read if you are in the mood for a dramatic romance where both characters go through significant ups and downs and try to connect.

    Book Tour Schedule

    The Ugliest Man on the Mountain

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Ugliest Man on the Mountain by Mark Laming Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours..

     

     

  • The Mother I Never Had by Gary Goldstein

    The Mother I Never Had by Gary Goldstein

    The Mother I Never Had

    The Mother I Never Had by Gary Goldstein

    Release:October 11, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Hadleigh House Publishing
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    It’s tough enough for L.A. landscape designer Nate Cronin when his professor father, Jim, who raised him alone since birth, dies, leaving Nate an orphan at thirty years old. But when the provocative and mysterious Amy enters Nate’s life soon after, it sends him on a devastating journey to unravel the truth about his past, the veracity of Amy’s claims, and the history of the father he adored.

    At the same time, Nate must come to terms with his commitment to his longtime girlfriend, Jennifer, a dance instructor whose patience with the resistant Nate frays as she attempts to help him navigate the psychological minefield set off by Amy’s arrival.

    The Mother I Never Had asks readers to consider what they would do if they found themselves faced with a parent they never knew existed—and if they could accept the secrets and lies that kept her away for a lifetime

    About the Author:

    Gary Goldstein is an award-winning writer for film, TV, and the theatre with more than thirty produced screen and stage credits. The New York native and longtime L.A. resident has also been a contributing film reviewer and arts feature writer for the Los Angeles Times since 2007. His first novel, the romantic comedy The Last Birthday Party, won a 2022 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award for Excellence in Fiction.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads| LinkedIn| Amazon

    The Mother I Never Had Review:

    “The Mother I Never Had” is a heartfelt drama between a man and his mother that touched me.

    I enjoy reading stories that realistically portray family dynamics, and the author writes them beautifully. Nate shares beautiful chemistry with Amy as she returns to his life and tries to patch things up with him. The author writes their scenes dynamically, and you can understand Nate’s reactions as you would react similarly if in his shoes. I could relate to Amy and Nate, and my heart went to both of them. There are also times when both characters frustrated me because of their impulsive reactions that jeopardize their bond. I was thoroughly invested in both of them and wanted to see how the story turned out.

    Even the supporting characters are memorable, as I enjoyed the turbulent relationship between Nate and Jennifer and his friendship with Danny. Danny is one of my favorite characters because of how upfront he is with Nate about his decisions. Some of my favorite scenes were when Nate meets his grandparents and Robin or when he sees Amy’s photo in the book.

    Perhaps the only minor criticism I had was that the book staggered in some places, like the scene where Nate sees a psychic, or even Charla’s character, which I felt did not add much value. On a side note, I would have also liked more background on Jim and why he did what he did.

    Apart from that, “The Mother I Never Had” is a lovely tale you can read if you love emotional family dramas. I would love to read some of the author’s other books in the future.

    The Mother I Never Had

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Mother I Never Had by Gary Goldstein Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours. 

    Book Tour Schedule

  • Sands of Sirocco by Annabelle McCormack

    Sands of Sirocco by Annabelle McCormack

     

    Sands of Sirocco

    Sands of Sirocco by Annabelle McCormack

    Release: September 27th 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Annabelle McCormack
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, B&N

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    Egypt, 1917: British nurse Ginger Whitman thought she escaped the intrigue that devastated her family. The events that threatened her life on the desert sands of WWI Palestine. But when she’s drafted into an investigation for the Cairo Intelligence Department, she uncovers forces at work. A work to destroy the man she loves: intelligence officer Noah Benson.

    As an old enemy resurfaces, Ginger and Noah are pulled into a minefield of lies, greed, and political deception that threatens the stability of the British alliance. With an enemy that knows their secrets, no one they love is safe. But nothing is what it seems—and a far more nefarious foe may be toying with them both.

    Sands in Sirocco is the second novel in the Windswept WW1 Saga, a historical fiction series featuring a strong female protagonist. A story of spies, family drama, romance, and epic adventure, it is set in the British Middle Eastern front of the First World War. This novel contains violence and romantic, steamy moments.

    About the Author:

    heartfelt romance, and complex family dynamics with strong female protagonists to make things interesting. She graduated from the Johns Hopkins University’s M.A. in Writing Program. She’s a sucker for pizza (cheese, bread, and tomatoes are the perfect foods) and mangoes, loves baking and photography, and never wants to do laundry again. She lives in Maryland with her hilarious husband, where she serves as a snack bitch for her (lucky-they’re-cute) five children and three boxers.

    She’s half-Costa Rican and speaks fluent Spanish, so you can always drop her a line in either English or Spanish. Pura vida!

     Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Sands of Sirocco by Annabelle McCormack
    Review:

    “Sands of Sirocco” is a beautiful continuation to “The Windswept Saga,” and I could not put it down.

    I loved “Windswept” last year and was excited to read the continuation. The highlight of the tale is Noah and Ginger. No matter their obstacles, I loved how they sparked as individuals and came together romantically. The two have to deal with the conniving Stephen in the story, as Noah tries to locate Jack and Ginger tries to find out about the mysterious Freddy. Throw in other shady characters like Osborne and Lord Helter, and I could not turn away from the story. You don’t know the supporting character’s true intentions, and as we progress, you see how intricately the author has carved the backstory of the supporting cast to connect with the main. I love Ginger again in the tale because of the guilty conscious she faces for her earlier actions while trying to manage her new mission and her feelings for Noah.

    Moreover, the author adds many exciting adventures, from bomb threats to secret dealings, and our leads go through quite a lot in their journey. At the same time, you also have touching moments, like when Ginger chats with Lucy, or her new friend Jane, over their love of medicine. Moreover, I despised Stephen so much. He is ruthless and conniving and always seems two steps ahead; I wanted to see how Noah beats him at his game. Even Victoria surprised me in certain scenes and added a good dynamic to the Noah/Ginger storyline. The author adds so much that each chapter reveals detailed information, so you don’t get bored for even a minute.

    Overall, “Sands of Sirocco” is a fantastic continuation of the series, and I cannot wait to revisit these characters in the next book!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Sands of Sirocco

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Sands of Sirocco by Annabelle McCormack Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

  • BELIEVED by Michael James Emberger

    BELIEVED by Michael James Emberger

    Believed

    BELIEVED by Michael James Emberger

    Release: October 4, 2021
    Format: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook, Audiobook
    Publisher: Michael James Emberger
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, 

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    Kelsea Jones is like a lot of girls at the University of Northern Minnesota. She has a boyfriend, she works at a coffee shop, and she’s on the swim team. But she’s not a girl. She’s a mermaid.

    Trouble brews when star hockey player Chad Andersen takes an interest in her. She tries to avoid him, but he won’t leave her alone. A son of wealth and privilege, he takes what he wants, and he gets away with it. He wants Kelsea, she says no, and so he rapes her. Kelsea stands on a tail and two fins to fight the most painful trial of her life. Despite her trauma and a crisis of faith, she speaks the truth of what Chad did, but will she be believed?

    A note from the author:

    1 out of 4 college girls experiences rape or sexual assault. That breaks my heart. It’s a crime that has affected people I love, and it has to stop. This novel is my way of raising awareness and showing survivors that someone hears them.

    Believed is a product of my friendship with a survivor who is an author and advocate. She opened my eyes to a world of trauma and PTSD that had been largely invisible to me before I met her, and it was life-changing. I needed to share that with others. The burden on my heart was too great to not say something, and fiction is the method I know best to convey the thoughts, truths, pains, and struggles that I see.

    Sexual assault is not my story. I haven’t experienced it, I don’t live with the resulting trauma, and I do not wish to profit from the pain of survivors. This is a book for them. It’s a book for those who love them. It’s a book to encourage readers to think and to empathize and to consider the realities of so many whose lives have been affected by this crime. If you purchase a copy here, know that the prices are the minimum allowed. I make no royalty on print copies. If you would like to read for free, you can download the book at my website: michaeljamesemberger dot com/believed

    If you find value in this work, please consider donating to an organization that fights against sexual violence or offers support to survivors. Tell your family and friends about the book. Review it online. Let the survivors in your life know that you care, that you believe them, and that you are there for them

    About the Author:

    Michael James Emberger is an author of thrillers and suspense residing in Wilton, NH. He enjoys weaving narratives of conspiracy and misguided intentions around divisive topics. Where there is debate, there is always room for a villain with goals far out of alignment from either side. Michael is a graduate of Messiah College, where he studied Engineering and met his wife racing solar cars cross-country. When he’s not working on home renovations or writing, he enjoys visiting the ocean and exploring the majesty of God’s creation on the summits of New Hampshire’s mountains.

    Michael wrote Believed, a heartbreaking and inspirational tale of a Mermaid in college in Minnesota. It was the most difficult book he’s ever written, but also the most important. He’s made it available for free in audiobook and e-book formats, and he hopes it will encourage and inform.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

    BELIEVED Review:

    Wow! This book was riveting from the first page, and I found many elements to appreciate. For starters, I loved how creative the author told the story by incorporating mermaids and building a world where we live with them. How the author describes the characters is natural; you can easily connect with Kelsea and the other merfolk. Moreover, I also loved how the author took Hans Cristian Anderson as an example, built on his life, and incorporated the Anderson family in a negative light, which was so interesting.

    Secondly, the experiences that Kelsea goes through are gripping. The author portrays her emotions so well that your heart goes to her. I thought the author highlighted the theme of assault and the survivors powerfully. Moreover, there are also elements of faith and trust in a Higher power, which added beautifully to the plot. One of my favorite moments was when Kelsea wrote the Dark Potato story mirroring her life’s events. I was glued to the pages even in the second half and thought the author wrote the courtroom scenes grippingly.

    Thirdly, the cast of characters is also dynamic. I loved Kelsea in the lead and her emotions on dealing with the events and knowing who to trust. The plot will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride and immerse you as you root for Kelsea, especially when she goes through so much trauma. You see how lost she is and hope the choices she makes are right, even at times when it doesn’t feel worthy. Even the supporting characters, like Erin and Noah, made the story memorable. I particularly loved the moments she shared with her mother.

    Overall, “Believed” is a beautiful and powerful young adult novel that I recommend reading.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Believed

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the BELIEVED by Michael James Emberger Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. 

     

    Week One:
    Viviana MacKade-Excerpt 2-9-1-2022
    BookHounds-Guest Post/IG Post-9-2-2022
    A Dream Within A Dream-Guest Post/IG Post-9-3-2022

    Week Two:
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Excerpt 1/IG Post-9-4-2022
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt 2-9-5-2022
    Epic Book Society-Guest Post/IG Post-9-6-2022
    pick a good book-Excerpt 1/IG Post-9-7-2022
    @allyluvsbooksalatte -IG Spotlight-9-8-2022
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-9-9-2022
    A Blue Box Full of Books-IG Spotlight-9-10-2022

    Week Three:
    Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt 1/IG Post-9-11-2022
    Nerdophiles-Review/IG Post-9-12-2022
    Lady Hawkeye-Excerpt 2/IG Post-9-13-2022
    @jaimerockstarbooktours-IG Spotlight-9-14-2022
    Beersbooksandboos -Review/IG Post-9-15-2022
    Wanderingwitchreads-TikTok Review/IG Post-9-16-2022
    GryffindorBookishNerd -Review/IG Post-9-17-2022

    Week Four:
    OneMoreExclamation-Review/IG Post-9-18-2022
    Book Reviews by Taylor -Review/IG Post-9-19-2022
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    Books With A Chance of Traveling-Review/IG Post-9-21-2022
    The Momma Spot-Review/IG Post-9-22-2022
    I’m Shelf-ish-Review/IG Post-9-23-2022
    Brandi Danielle Davis -Review/IG Post-9-24-2022

    Week Five:
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  • Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey

    Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey

    Secrets of Our House

    Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey

    Release: February 8th 2022 
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    A thrilling domestic drama set against the power of the wilderness, Secrets of Our House is a deeply-felt novel of long-held secrets and the strength of family.

    Desi is the mastermind behind her dream getaway house. Nestled high into the mountains of North Carolina, it is a sleek place, a luxurious place, a dark place.

    A place full of secrets.

    Secrets about the man she longs for, a man who is not her husband. Secrets about the roots of her family that must never, ever, see the light of day. When Desi and her family arrive from Chicago to spend the summer in the mountains, the seeds for the tumultuous months to follow are planted–her marriage on the rocks, not knowing which way they’ll go. Her seventeen year-old daughter Jules, falling in love for the first time with a local boy–and forging a new path that will take her to uncharted places. And Carter–a man Desi knew long ago, before she expunged him from her life for good.

    All hurtling toward events none of them can undo.

    Engaging, propulsive, and with a dramatic, heart-pounding final act, Secrets of Our House is a dazzling novel, richly-drawn, that shows no matter how hard outside forces may shake you, the bonds of family are stronger than the harshest winds

    About the Author:

    Rea Frey is an award-winning author of several nonfiction books and the novels Not Her Daughter, Because You’re Mine, and Until I Find You.

    She is also the founder and CEO of Writeway, which teaches writers about the business of publishing—not just the craft.

    She lives in Nashville with her husband and daughter.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Secrets of Our House Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    The author sets the suspense and foreboding of the tale slowly yet effectively. As soon as you start reading about Desi, Jules, and Peter, you wonder what secrets are lurking in the corner that could jeopardize the family. On the one hand, an old flame, Carter returns, and on the other hand, Tommy enters the picture. Add to that, Desi has to meet Will’s family, and you see the various emotions she goes through. The author writes the drama so well that you don’t know what will happen to these characters.

    Secondly, the author writes the characters beautifully. Honestly, I was not too fond of Desi in the lead. She is overprotective towards Jules and does not let her live her life. Desi has her secrets and comes across as selfish, putting her feelings first with Peter and Jules. It’s not when things take a turn for the worse that she realizes how self-absorbed she has been. However, the author does add a few twists and shocking revelations that I did not expect. Some memorable moments in the story are when Ava gets attacked, when Desi meets Lenore, or reunites with Carter and brings him home.

    At the same time, I adored Jules, and for me, the story sparked because of her presence. I loved her feelings for Will, bravery, skills to survive in the wild, and complex feelings towards Desi. I would have also felt the betrayal she feels from Desi if Desi was my mother. Also, I enjoyed how the author wrote the dynamics between Desi, Jules, and Peter. Moreover, I felt the author didn’t fully utilize characters like Tommy, Haley, and Carter to add more oomph into the tale.

    Overall, “Secrets of Our House” is a dramatic tale that will hook you because of the characters.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Secrets of Our House

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

     

    Reading Girl Reviews-Feb. 6th
    David L Morgan-Feb. 6th
    Shooks Books-Feb. 7th
    Bookish Heidi-Feb 7th
    Love My Books 2020-Feb. 7th
    Reading Is My Cardio-Feb 8th
    Bookphile Belle-Feb. 8th
    Jayme Reads-Feb. 8th
      2 Babes And A Bookshelf-Feb. 8th
    Green Eyed Girl 0704-Feb. 9th
    Nurse Bookie-Feb. 9th
    Bookstagram N Yogapants-Feb. 10th
    Rajivs Reviews-Feb. 10th
    Hooked by Books-Feb. 10th
    Bryant Park Books-Feb 10th
    Reading With Mere-Feb. 11th
    Randi Reads-Feb. 11th
    Miss W Book Reviews-Feb. 13
    The Mary Reader-Feb. 14th
    Minsta Books-Feb. 15th
      Megs Book Club-Feb. 16th
    Jackie Loves Books-Feb. 17th
    Candid With Courtney –-Feb. 17th
    Books Love And Understanding-Feb. 18th
    Diaries Of A Bibliophile-Feb. 21st

  • Bird’s Eye View by Tk Ray

    Bird’s Eye View by Tk Ray

    Bird's Eye View

    Bird’s Eye View by Tk Ray

    Release: July 14th, 2020
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Tk Ray 
    Source: Pump up your Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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    A Bird’s Eye View is a twisted tale of deception with acts of love but under a cloud of a troubled teen’s painsn. Amongst the whispers of chilling prayers, there are no more traces of laughter and love. This once tight-knit family faces a rollercoaster of emotions and a call to healing. This blindsided attack leaves the family devastated and takes this family on a journey none of them could prepare for.

    “Write what hurts and watch it heal.” That is the mantra that has empowered the imagination and willpower to tell her story for the upcoming Author, TK Ray. Using colorful language and descriptive tone, Tk provides a safe space to unpack a beautiful and twisted tale based on a true story of real family dynamics.

    About the Author:

    TK Ray was born in San Diego, California, to a fifteen-year-old mother and fourteen-year-old father in the late eighties. Born to two young teens, TK found herself tainted by the statistics of becoming a teen mother herself. However, she found solace in the world of literature. And her own private journals became her voice when shyness took over. She began to understand the world more intuitively. And she birthed that intuition into an imagination that has fueled much of her writing. Much of her writing is personal. However, as the years have gone by, they have included poetry, music, obituaries, blog posts, and now literature.

    TK is a certified Holistic Health Practitioner and practicing Massage Therapist in southern California. She uses her knowledge in holistic health with her knowledge of her bachelor’s degree in health science to better serve her community in wellness and education. Her wellness blog embodies all of who she is. And she has expanded on her writing style to help others follow their passion, peace, and purpose. Tk’s writing style is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat as she paints a portrait of pain drawn out by the light in her own fighting spirit.

    Website | Facebook  | Goodreads

    Bird’s Eye View Review:

    “Bird’s Eye View” is one of those stories that starts slow but builds momentum along the way. The second half of the book is very gripping, and I could not put it down.

    The author described the characters wonderfully, where you feel like you are a part of the family as they face the horrible challenges and accusations. Mirabel, Tiffany, and Farell shine in their roles, and I rooted them throughout the tale. At the same time, I wouldn’t say I liked Carli to the core and was shocked at whatever she did. The second half of the book stuck to my hands as I could not put it down. I had to find out what happened to the family and how they would survive the trauma.

    Tiffany was my favorite character, and I thought the author portrayed her wonderfully. I also liked the way the author shifted perspectives between the characters. It was also creative of the author to end the chapter with letters that Mirabel writes, where we empathize with her feelings and the love she has for her family.

    However, the only criticism I have towards the story is that it started a bit awkwardly with Cara’s storyline, which did not add much value. Also, I would have liked closure on Carli’s character, as I despised her, and would have liked closure on the storyline. On a side note, there were also a few editing errors that I noticed.

    But apart from that, “Bird’s Eye View” was a fascinating story, which I feel could easily happen to someone in reality.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Bird's Eye View

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Bird’s Eye View by Tk Ray Blog Tour hosted by Pump up your Book Tours.