Realistic Fiction Archives - Rajiv's Reviews

We’re Like Family Here: A Psychological Thriller by Jack Dane

Rajiv — Fri, 08 May 2026 09:05:12 +0000

Office Drama with a Sharp Bite

Whenever Jack Dane drops something new, I clear my schedule. Having devoured most of his catalog, I tore through We’re Like Family Here in a single sitting – though this one left me with slightly mixed feelings compared to his usual intensity.

What Works:

The trio of protagonists anchors the story effectively. Brian, Michelle, and Ashley each bring distinct energy to the office politics, and Dane writes their intersections with precision. Brian emerges as genuinely despicable – the sleazy boss you love to hate, whose every move feels authentically gross. Michelle generates surprising sympathy despite her own questionable choices; you understand her resentment even when her actions raise red flags. Ashley is the average newbie who Brian hires, but also brings an air of mystery with her. The workplace backdrop itself intrigues, with corporate maneuvering providing fertile ground for tension.

Moreover, the ending delivers Dane’s signature punch. The twist caught me completely off guard, recontextualizing earlier interactions in ways that make the reread tempting. These moments of genuine surprise remain Dane’s greatest strength as a storyteller.

What Falls Short:

The plot feels almost too straightforward by Dane’s standards. Where his previous works layer multiple reveals and shifting allegiances, this one essentially offers two major twists and limited complexity between them. The pacing also drags accordingly – entire chapters focus on Ashley anticipating her job or Michelle stewing in resentment without advancing momentum. More exciting incidents or substantive subplots would have tightened the experience considerably.

Character backstory also feels thin. Michelle’s family dynamics hint at depth (particularly regarding John) but Trevor remains somewhat opaque. Additional exploration here would have enriched her motivations and emotional stakes. Ultimately, the material might have functioned better as an expanded short story rather than a full novel; the length occasionally strains against the actual content available.

Verdict:

We’re Like Family Here remains an enjoyable read despite its relative simplicity. Strong character work, authentic office toxicity, and that knockout ending demonstrate Dane’s continued skill. It simply lacks the density and relentless momentum that define his best efforts. Existing fans will appreciate the familiar voice; newcomers might better appreciate his tighter thrillers first.

Perfect for:

Jack Dane devotees, workplace drama enthusiasts, and readers who enjoy morally compromised characters navigating professional minefields.

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Master of Murder by Christopher Pike

Rajiv — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 14:54:44 +0000

Clever Concept, Uneven Execution

I wanted to love this more than I actually did. While Master of Murder has an interesting setup, it never quite comes together the way classic Pike usually does.

What Works:
Marvin’s relationship with Ann genuinely carries the book. It’s heartfelt and grounded in a way that makes you care despite everything else. I also enjoyed how Pike weaves Marvin’s investigation of Harry alongside his fictional Mystery of Silver Lake series; that parallel structure creates the most engaging layers of the story. Moreover, Shelly and Triad round things out nicely as supporting characters, adding texture without overwhelming the central mystery.

What Falls Short:
The pacing drags significantly through the first half. You’re waiting for things to actually happen. Moreover, at times, the premise itself strains credibility; Marvin being a secret bestselling author managing complex finances without anyone discovering it feels more convenient than believable. Also, the second half gets convoluted fast, especially the climax where too many threads tangle together messily.
Most frustrating, Marvin becomes genuinely difficult to root for. His actions toward the end feel so out of character that you lose sympathy just when the story needs it most. It’s hard to invest when the protagonist’s choices don’t align with who he seemed to be.

Verdict:
Master of Murder isn’t bad, but it’s simply average by Pike standards. The meta-mystery concept intrigues and Ann’s storyline resonates emotionally, but sluggish pacing, shaky logic, and a protagonist who loses his way prevent this from joining his better works. Worth reading for completists, though newcomers should start elsewhere in his catalog.

Perfect for:
Christopher Pike fans, meta-mystery enthusiasts, and readers who enjoy fiction-within-fiction structures.

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The Caretaker by Emily Shiner

Rajiv — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 12:09:59 +0000

The Caretaker Review:

Slow Burn That Never Ignites

When I picked up The Caretaker, I wanted a psychological thriller with genuine surprises. Instead, the book was a predictable and a pretty tame story that promises twists it never delivers.

What Falls Short:
The advertised “killer twist” in the book cover proves nonexistent. The central mystery reveals itself immediately, reducing the reading experience to waiting for characters to comprehend what readers already know. This feels misleading given the cover promises.

Moreover, I found myself disliking both Tim and Amy who are the main characters. Tim proves deeply unlikable through untrustworthy behavior, yet Amy’s continued tolerance lacks credible motivation. Also, the pacing drags considerably throughout, with minimal atmospheric threat. Dialogue also grows repetitive as the characters revisit identical conversations whenever items shift or disappear, creating frustration rather than mounting dread.

What Works:
The story finally finds some momentum near the climax. Actual suspense emerges about what will happen to the characters, and the ending sequence delivers the tension the rest of the book lacks. I also found myself rooting for Paul more than anyone else. I genuinely felt bad for what happened to him and his family, which provided the only real emotional connection I had.

Verdict:
The Caretaker fails as a thriller. The lack of mystery, frustrating characters, and repetitive structure make it a chore until the final stretch. That decent climax isn’t worth the investment for most readers. Skip this unless you’re extremely patient or deeply committed to domestic suspense regardless of quality.

Perfect for:
Readers who don’t mind knowing the secret early and domestic drama enthusiasts.

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The Other Couple by Jack Dane

Rajiv — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 08:06:15 +0000

The Other Couple by Jack Dane

Release: March 28, 2025
Format: Ebook
Publisher: ‎ Back Alley Press
Source: Amazon
Find it at: Amazon , GoodReads

It was supposed to be a nice family weekend. If only it had been.

When new parents Lainey and David arrive at their rental cabin late at night, they get a surprise to find another couple already there. Looks like there was a double-booking…right?

As the weekend progresses and the house’s dark past comes to light, the pair begin to wonder if it was coincidence at all.

Another young family had lived there prior.They had a young son, too. All of them vanished.

Then Lainey discovers a journal, and what it reveals about the past moves her from wondering to flat-out worry.

Deep in the forest in all isolation, Lainey and David will need to tread very carefully with the other couple if they want to survive the weekend.

Fans of Freida McFadden, Daniel Hurst, and Kiersten Modglin will love this twist-filled psychological thriller that will have you turning pages late into the night.

About the Author:

Jack Dane is the author of twisted psychological thrillers, many of which are set in New York City, where he lives. When not writing, Jack enjoys getting lost in the Park, going to jazz clubs, and people watching for new ideas.

Website Goodreads , Amazon

The Other Couple Review:

This is the fifth book I’ve read by Jack Dane, and I can confidently say it’s one of my favorites. Dane takes a seemingly simple premise and turns it into a tense, claustrophobic psychological thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish.

David and Lainey, along with their young son Jonah, head out on vacation .They discover that their booking got double-booked. Enter Kyle and Heather, another couple who also claim the cabin. With a storm rolling in and the road blocked, the two families are forced to share the isolated space. What begins as an awkward inconvenience quickly spirals into something far more unsettling. And David and Lainey realize their new cabin-mates aren’t what they seem.

I loved the composition of the story within such a small cast—just four adults and a child—yet it never once felt dull. On the contrary, the intimate setup heightened the tension. The atmosphere was eerie and oppressive, and I found myself holding my breath alongside Lainey as she tried to make sense of the increasingly bizarre behavior of Kyle and Heather. Jonah added a touch of innocence that made the stakes feel even higher.

The journal entries sprinkled throughout the book were another clever touch, deepening the mystery and keeping me guessing. While I did anticipate part of the twist—likely because I’ve read my fair share of thrillers—the execution was still satisfying and added to the chilling atmosphere.

Dane excels at creating characters that feel real, and Lainey’s emotional journey was particularly vivid. This book had me feeling as if I were right there in that cabin, with the walls closing in.

A gripping, atmospheric thriller—easily one of my top Jack Dane reads. ★★★★½

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The Wild Things by London Clarke

Rajiv — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 06:37:16 +0000

The Wild Things by London Clarke

Release: February 25, 2025
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Carfax Abbey Publishing
Source: NetGalley
Find it at: Amazon , GoodReads

True crime writer Kendall Casey has always been drawn to dark stories, but her latest project leads her to a neighborhood shrouded in secrets. Located in the North Carolina mountains, The Cove is a community in which the neighbors are far from harmonious. The Guffs are openly despised, while the charming entertainers, the Robinettes, are adored by all.

When Kendall’s wayward sister arrives unexpectedly and vows that she’s changed, Kendall reluctantly agrees to let her stay. But as the Robinettes welcome her sister into their inner circle, Kendall’s peaceful life unravels into a series of terrifying paranormal encounters, and simmering neighborhood tensions ignite into dangerous feuds. The closer Kendall gets to uncovering the truth, the more she suspects the Robinettes are hiding something sinister.

As neighborhood tensions boil over and terrifying visions haunt her nights, Kendall finds herself closer than ever to a dark truth lurking just below the surface. But some secrets are better left buried . . . and Kendall may not survive unearthing this one.

About the Author:

London Clarke is an award-winning, Amazon-bestselling author known for her supernatural thrillers and gothic suspense novels. She has written several series, including the Legacy of Darkness series, the Dunmoor series, and the Neighborhood Nightmares series. Some of her popular titles include “The Meadows,” “Whickering Place,” “Nocturne House,” and “Wildfell”.

You can find more information about her and her works on her . If you’re a fan of gothic suspense, her books might be right up your alley!

Goodreads

The Wild Things Review:

The Wild Things is an intriguing and eerie thriller that keeps readers hooked with its unpredictable twists and a touch of supernatural elements.

I liked Kendall as the protagonist. Kendall’s reactions to the various neighborhood dynamics were fun to watch as they revealed more about her character and the community she inhabits. The eerie moments, such as the scene with the trees full of shoes or Oli’s encounter with Kendall in the woods, add a chilling atmosphere reminiscent of classic thrillers.

One of the standout aspects of the book for me is the complex relationship between Kendall and Sam. Their “will they, won’t they” dynamic adds depth to the story, making their connection relatable and suspenseful.

Supporting characters like Marla, particularly Holly, also bring a lot to the table. Holly’s late arrival in the story adds a sense of intrigue, and her character arc is one I couldn’t put down. Even the subplot involving Eliana is engaging, adding layers to the overall plot and keeping things fresh.

Moreover, the slight hint of supernatural aspects is woven seamlessly into the narrative, mainly the mysterious girl Kendall keeps seeing.

However, there are a few drawbacks—For instance, the story’s focus shifts from Georgia to Blair and Flip. While Georgia is a compelling antagonist, she fades into the background later in the book. Also, the ending felt convoluted, with new characters and explanations that came out of nowhere. I think that the author could have tied these loose ends better.

Overall, The Wild Things is a solid thriller, full of suspense and unexpected twists. However, it could have benefited from a more precise resolution. It’s a book that keeps you questioning until the very end.

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We Still Belong by Christine Day

Rajiv — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:01:20 +0000

We Still Belong by Christine Day

Release: August 1, 2023

Format: Ebook
Publisher: Heartdrum
Source: NetGalley
Find it at: Amazon , GoodReads

A thoughtful and heartfelt middle grade novel by American Indian Youth Literature Honor–winning author Christine Day (Upper Skagit). This is about a girl whose hopeful plans for Indigenous Peoples’ Day (and plans to ask her crush to the school dance) go all wrong. However, she finds herself surrounded by the love of her Indigenous family and community at an intertribal powwow.

Wesley is proud of the poem she wrote for Indigenous Peoples’ Day. But the reaction from a teacher makes her wonder if expressing herself is important enough. And due to the specific tribal laws of her family’s Nation, Wesley is unable to enroll in the Upper Skagit tribe and is left feeling “not Native enough.” Through the course of the novel, with the help of her family and friends, she comes to embrace her own place within the Native community.

About the Author:

Christine Day (Upper Skagit) grew up in Seattle, nestled between the sea, the mountains, and the pages of her favorite books. Her debut novel, I CAN MAKE THIS PROMISE (Harper), was a best book of the year from Kirkus, School Library Journal, NPR, and the Chicago Public Library, as well as an American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor Book. Her second novel was THE SEA IN WINTER (Harper/Heartdrum). She also wrote the forthcoming SHE PERSISTED: MARIA TALLCHIEF (Philomel), an early reader biography in a new series inspired by Chelsea Clinton’s bestselling picture book. Christine lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband.

Her work is represented by Suzie Townsend at New Leaf Literary & Media, Inc

Website | Goodreads

We Still Belong Review:

Firstly, parts of this book struck me as philosophical and profound. Sometimes, we feel disconnected from the fast-paced world, wondering if we fit in. I appreciated Wesley as the protagonist, who initially feels out of place but gradually becomes more confident and learns to love herself, refusing to let people like Mr. Holt affect her. The story takes place in just one to two days, but you fall in love with Wesley during this time. The relationship between Wesley and her grandfather is particularly endearing, showcasing a mutual exchange of wisdom—her grandfather gets involved with Gemmakitty’s gaming. At the same time, Wesley seeks to understand more about her heritage and community. Additionally, I loved Hanan as a secondary character; despite occasional arguments, she consistently motivates Wesley during tough times, and their friendship is strong and uplifting.

Secondly, the book’s exploration of blood quantum laws and membership guidelines within the context of Indian Country was not only fascinating but also educational. It sparked my curiosity, leading me to delve deeper into the world of Indigenous Nations and Tribal governments. The author’s portrayal of Indigenous People was authentic and insightful, shedding light on the culture.

Thirdly, the story’s absence of traditional antagonists was a breath of fresh air. Instead, we are presented with a cast of realistic and likable characters, making the story feel like a slice of real life.

My only criticism is that the story sometimes felt overcrowded. Characters like Ella and Skye come and go without making a lasting impact. For instance, Ella, though likable, didn’t significantly influence Wesley’s journey. Focusing more on essential friends like Hanan and Ryan and delving deeper into Wesley’s self-reflection could have strengthened the narrative.

Overall, “We Still Belong” is a charming middle-grade book worth reading.

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Wishing Upon the Same Stars by Jacquetta Nammar Feldman

Rajiv — Sun, 02 Jul 2023 04:09:33 +0000

Wishing Upon the Same Stars by Jacquetta Nammar Feldman

Release: February 1, 2022
Format: Ebook
Publisher: HarperCollins
Source: Amazon
Find it at: Goodreads, Kindle

This coming-of-age middle grade debut novel follows an Arab American girl named Yasmeen as she moves to San Antonio with her family and navigates finding friendship–and herself.

When twelve-year-old Yasmeen Khoury moves with her family to San Antonio, all she wants to do is fit in. But her classmates in Texas are nothing like her friends in the predominantly Arab neighborhood back in Detroit where she grew up. Almost immediately, Yasmeen feels like the odd girl out. And as she faces middle school mean girls and tries to make new friends, she feels more alone than ever before.

Then Yasmeen meets her neighbor, Ayelet Cohen, a first-generation Israeli American. As the two girls grow closer, Yasmeen is grateful to know someone who understands what it feels like when your parents’ idea of home is half a world away.

Then Yasmeen’s grandmother moves in after her home in Jerusalem is destroyed. Now Yasmeen and Ayelet must grapple with how much closer the events of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are than they’d realized. Yasmeen begins to develop her own understandings of home, heritage, and most importantly, herself. Can the two girls learn there’s more that brings them together than might tear them apart . And that peace begins with them?

About the Author:

Jacquetta Nammar Feldman loves writing poetry and stories of all kinds. When she’s not curled up with a book or typing at her computer, she can be found hiking the beautiful hills of Austin, Texas. She earned her bachelor of science in advertising from the University of Texas at Austin, and she’s currently a candidate for a master of fine arts in Writing for Children and Young Adults at the Vermont College of Fine Arts.

Website | Goodreads

Wishing Upon the Same Stars Review:

Firstly, I was captivated by the author’s portrayal of the complex emotions experienced by Yasmeen after her move to San Antonio. The author skillfully crafts scenes that depict Yasmeen’s internal struggle as she navigates a fractured friendship, the pressure to maintain a façade, and her yearning for acceptance in a diverse community. The novel effectively delves into themes of identity, assimilation, and the challenges of maintaining relationships amidst cultural differences, creating a seamless blend of these elements in a compelling middle-grade story.

Secondly, I found Yasmeen to be a remarkable protagonist. Her aspirations to bridge the gap between different cultures and languages resonated deeply with me. Throughout the book, she encounters bullying from the unpleasant Hallie and the Sapphires, experiences her first crush with Carlos, grapples with a complicated relationship with Waverly, and, most notably, forms a special bond with Ayelet.

Speaking of which, the author skillfully explores the multifaceted dynamics between Ayelet and Yasmeen. The author depicts the tensions arising from their families’ differences due to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict authentically. I admire the author’s adept handling of this subject matter, highlighting the notion that even parents can be fallible and that sometimes one must stand their ground to do what feels right.

Some of the most memorable moments in the story include witnessing the San Antonio Rodeo and Yasmeen’s discovery of her place in the Math Lab. Additionally, I also adored Sitti, who added depth and warmth to the narrative. Even Sarah was notable during the Spelling Bee scenes.

Overall, “Wishing Upon the Same Stars” is a beautiful middle-grade novel that exemplifies the importance of supporting and celebrating each other’s accomplishments, regardless of our diverse upbringings and backgrounds. This book truly enchanted me, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

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The Journey Home by Conrad Jones

Rajiv — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 05:20:27 +0000

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

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

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

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The Journey Back by Conrad Jones

Rajiv — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 19:22:39 +0000

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

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.

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

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

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The Journey by Conrad Jones

Rajiv — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 16:44:21 +0000

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

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

About the Author:

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

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.

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