5/5 ⭐ | Untethered by Deborah L Staunton

Author Deborah L Staunton has created a powerful read unlike any other.  Comprised of short poetic stories, prose, and gut-wrenching memories “Untethered” weaves a heart breaking and profound read. 

Short, but not full of sweet, well written, and gripping, this debut is a whirlwind of emotions, memories, and a life lived.  “Untethered” doesn’t hold back but presents its most difficult moments of life in a way I’ve not yet seen compiled.  Enjoyable, yet difficult to read, I found myself sitting with the weight of her journey, celebrating the small “wins” along the way, and feeling all the heart break in between.

Taking the darker, harder parts of her life, Staunton gives readers a realistic, artistic, and therapeutic release.  From a childhood riddled with alcoholism, to the losses faced on her road to becoming a mother, and even the struggles of parenting her own ill child.  I felt seen, validated, embraced, and an entire range of emotions as I wound my way through the pages of Staunton’s life.

Wanting to reach through the book to hug the twelve-year-old facing more than she ever should have, to the mother feeling alone with her vacant womb, and the parent just trying to do their best.  Life is not easy, but Staunton bears all bringing us along for the brutally beautiful ride that is life.

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5/5 ⭐ | Bound by Possibilities (Larry Nodens Book 2) by Joab Stieglitz

Off the heels of our first introduction to Larry Nodens in book one, “Designed for Slaughter,” readers are dropped headfirst into another of Larry’s curious cases.  With an unidentified body found near the docks and another body found in the dumpsters of the Kadath Club, Nodens is sent in to investigate these odd deaths. 

Book two of the Larry Nodens series, “Bound by Possibilities,” offers readers more insight into the Overlord Authority.  The role they play in society, the rules they enforce and the beliefs, adherence, and promises their authority brings.  Larry’s daughter Dani also takes on an increased role in this read.  Her relationship with Farley deepens, as well as her Schola experiences, and choice in her future.  Dani begins to come into herself in this book, and her and Larry’s trust and father/daughter rapport is on full display. 

Just as readers settle into Larry Nodens’ life, the world in which he lives and the cases he encounters, they are yanked right back into author Joab Stieglitz’s comfort place.  Stieglitz brings new realms, complex beings, and a world in which our wildest dreams couldn’t even imagine to the page in “Bound by Possibilities.”  The familiarity we fall into with Larry gets derailed as he begins to unravel new possibilities. 

The Larry Nodens series is an impressive new chapter in Stieglitz’s belt as he brings his realms, imagination, and story arcs to the crime and investigative nature of Noden’s character.  Stieglitz has created an entire world around the Overlord Authority, but as Selection looms, body parts pile up, and Dani enters the Oracle’s sights, he begins to question it all, determined to unravel the possibilities within.

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5/5 ⭐ | Designed for Slaughter (Larry Nodens Book 1) by Joab Stieglitz

Larry Nodens is the relatable cop we’ve all come to love in the police action dramas we regularly see on TV.  But, in true Stieglitz fashion he adds a peppering of fantastical, out of this world type characters, as Nodens hunts down a serial killer.  But how do all these victims tie together?

Despite the science fiction aspects of “Designed for Slaughter,” it reads incredibly realistically.  With themes prevalent to the real world such as racism and feelings of otherness, as well as single-fatherhood and career stressors.  This first book in the Larry Nodens Series kicks off with a bang as it begins with otherwise unknown individuals in the lead up to their deaths as Larry and his team are sent in to investigate. 

Author Joab Stieglitz’s talent lies in his ability to create immersive and otherworldly scenery that draws the reader to the page, in an engrossing and engaging manner.  His ability to create immersive and all-encompassing worlds of reality, complete with a front cover map are impressive.  With characters that intrigue and excite, drive the plot, and keep the pages turning. “Designed for Slaughter” is a crime loving sci-fi investigation that will leave readers hungering for more from Larry and his team.

If you love criminal investigations with a spattering of science fiction and experimentation, this is the read for you!  Stieglitz has a knack for writing the supernatural and this latest series shows off his chops for thrilling crime investigations. Hats off to Larry Nodens and his trusty Shantak in this job well done. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Once Upon a Crime by Alan Brenham

In the wildest finale yet, “Once Upon a Crime” spins rhymes so wickedly readers will never guess who is behind it.  Author Alan Brenham is no stranger to high octane cases, twisted motives, and horrific crimes, but this book may take the cake.  With each fresh murder comes a taunting rhyme from “PG.” 

Detective Maddie Chase is navigating single parenting, a less than ideal ex-husband, and a serial killer on the loose.  As her personal life begins to weave into her professional world the stakes quickly heat up.  With a killer seemingly taunting her with rhymes, targeting depraved individuals, and leaving blood shed in their wake this engrossing read will haunt you to the very end. 

With Detective Chase’s daughter’s safety on the line, and her nanny’s life in the cross hairs, the pressure is on for justice to prevail.  Brenham creates such wholly captivating read your feelings become intertwined with the pages, the crimes, and the rhymes within. 

“Once Upon a Crime” will have you rethinking everything, from the strangers around you, to the relationships past and present.  Bringing fear to parents, anxiety to readers, terror to Detective Chase, and soon concern to the killer at large as Chase closes in.  A professional at police procedurals, suspenseful plots, and gripping psychological games, Brenham’s reads never disappoint.

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5/5 ⭐ | Cornered by Alan Brenham

Temple Police Detective Matt Brady is thrown headfirst into a make-or-break case of his career as time is quickly running out.  Women are going missing, at a rapid rate, as the town of Temple, TX is being rocked by a serial kidnapper.  But the leads are as dry as the Texas heat and the FBI is itching to take over if Detective Brady can’t solve this case soon.

Readers will have their heads on a swivel as women are disappearing right under the police’s nose.  With the bad guys always seemingly a step ahead, Detective Brady is struggling to bring the women home safely.  Is something more nefarious afoot, and who is the ringleader?

As a female, being on the constant look out for danger seems to come with the territory, but the snatchers and organization behind the kidnapping in “Cornered” bring a whole new sense of fear.  The interconnectedness of the criminal organization and plotting behind author Alan Brenham’s “Cornered” are as tight as they are shocking.  Brenham is an expert at creating an ending you won’t see coming, keeping you on the edge until the very last pages. 

As the plot thickens, Matt Brady’s determination to keep those around him safe and bring the victims home safe remains paramount. Readers consistently feel dropped squarely in the lives of Brenham’s characters and Brady is no different.  In signature Brenham fashion, the lead up to the finale takes a personal toll as the boundaries between work and life begin to blur and the safety of those around weighs heavily. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Just Have Faith by Jimmy Deas

With the first in the Mark Thomas Series under my belt, I found myself looking forward to diving in to “Just Have Faith” and catching up on what Mark had been up to since I last saw him.  This feeling perfectly describes the intricate and wholesome character creation that author Jimmy Deas has given us.  Quickly Mark Thomas feels more like a friend than fiction.  Giving the impression that you know him after just one book together, excited to see where life has taken him. 

This second book picks up several years later as Reverand Thomas creates roots with his wife, Gail, in the Greenwood Baptist Church, a small community church he’s led for the last three months.  Easily reading as a standalone but also seamlessly progressing from book one, “Ran Like Joseph.”  In this second book, Mark Thomas has grown, matured, and continues to face tests within his parish and town.  Up against a difficult parishioner, facing feelings of inadequacy, scandals, and difficult situations within the community, Rev. Thomas confronts the intricacies of his role.  Leaning on his wife, deepening relationships with the town, and always with the wisdom of God, Thomas navigates the good, joyful, tough, and testing of his ministry. 

Readers can tangibly begin to feel the fabric of the community and the ways in which Rev. Mark Thomas weaves within it.  From being a steady presence, to answering the call at all hours, standing steadfast in his values, and remaining dependable against constant demands, it is easy to see why even the most stubborn parishioners take to him.  Fall in love with Gail all over again as she begins taking on a more directly influential role as well, supporting his hard work, dedication, and fostering of church community. 

The Thomas family feels like old friends at this point, with powerfully directed sermons, wise wisdom, and a devotion that is unwavering.  “Just Have Faith” once again offers a front row pew into the life of a small-town pastor.  Deas is not afraid to show vulnerabilities in his characters, producing a genuine friend, and positive presence in readers’ lives.

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5/5 ⭐ | All Hope of Becoming Human by Lonnie Busch

Across the world strange phenomena is happening.  Bodies are being found with their heads severed clear off or split wide open with surgical precision.  Large cavities in the Earth seem to be opening, revealing large metallic objects buried within them.  In particular, one such location in Arizona near the four corners, is subject to a classified archeological study, under the close watchful eye of the United States military. 

Concurrently, Special Agent Demzey is investigating these odd occurrences and the beings seemingly behind them.  As part of a special government branch that explores the abnormal and mysterious.  Agent Demzey is no stranger to the paranormal, but even he is having trouble rationalizing what may be behind this. 

As the archeological dig site near the four corners is shut down due to tremors and safety concerns, assistant archologist, Rebecca Duccati seems oddly drawn back to it.  The hundreds of bones uncovered within, both humanoid and something else, as well as the unidentified metal object (UMO) leave her feeling a strange sort of attraction.  Risking it all, Dr. Duccati and Agent Demzey are determined to find answers.

We’ve all seen the movies and TV shows depicting aliens, other life forms, and extraterrestrial beings, but we’ve never seen anything like this.  From the United States to Japan, India, and beyond, the world is experiencing the unexplainable.  Chasms are opening up, superhuman beings are inflicting violence, and the media is feeding the public more lines regarding acts of terrorism.

Author Lonnie Busch delivers a post-apocalyptic, science fiction page-turner like you’ve never seen before.  Absolutely captivating, readers will find themselves simultaneously repulsed and fascinated, drawn in and ready to run for cover. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Beyond Dreamscape Conspiracy (Book 2 of Dreamscape Conspiracy) by Gary G. Wise

On the heels of disaster and catastrophe to their lab and Dream Weaver research in “Dreamscape Conspiracy” the second book in the Dreamscape Conspiracy series picks up where devastation left off. 

As Dr. Cara Williams’ team works to rebuild the Dreamscape technology, Dream Weaver project, and dream mapping research several new characters are brought into the mix, including the excitable and charming Zach Hightower.  However, despite the rebuilding and excitement around Dreamscape 3.0, Cara and the team are also faced with more trained assassins, as they struggle to fight the violence and body count continuing to stack up.  This second book ramps up the action, thrills, and suspense as Big Pharma seemingly takes on a new role in the progress and development of the Dream Weaver project.  Author Gary G. Wise gives readers romance, action, conspiracy, technology, and futuristic applications that electrify and inspire. 

Dr. Cara Williams and Russell Carter continue to be pulled by their dark pasts, as they desperately work to overcome the persistent obstacles they face on their way to success, and healing.  Giving readers characters we can root for, and others we remain wary of, one can’t help but feel like a member of the team as they fight to get the project back on track in this, “Beyond Dreamscape Conspiracy.”

The exhilarating and groundbreaking research continues in this follow up, book two of Dreamscape Conspiracy.  Russ continues to be a strong and ever-present member of the group, as Dr. Cara Williams becomes increasingly vulnerable and resilient to the hardships being faced.  Wise pens a riveting second book.

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5/5 ⭐ | Hidden Intentions (The Barry Marshall Series Book 2) by Alan Brenham

Cailey Marshall is no longer the child we saw in book one, “Game Piece.”  Maturing, becoming more independent, and well into middle school, this second book “Hidden Intentions” centers around an older Cailey.  Barry has positively adjusted his priorities and the Marshall family seems to be thriving. 

Until it is all ripped apart with the kidnapping of Cailey Marshall and the demands to kill Barry’s brother, Stuart, within seven days.  Author Alan Brenham leaves readers asking themselves, would you kill your own family to save your daughter? 

This tense game of cat and mouse, between the kidnappers and Marshall family pushes everyone’s emotions to the brink.  Revolving around Cailey, her captivity, and her captors, while simultaneously putting Barry and wife, Erin, at odds with their decisions, relationships, strength, and emotions are all tested within.

Brenham has a powerful ability to captivate and thrash readers with his plots, supporting cast of characters, and psychological turmoil.  From Erin’s parents to Barry’s brother, the runaways, and kidnappers, “Hidden Intentions” was a whirlwind of a ride. 

As a parent, I found myself struggling to come to grips with the scenario the Marshall family was facing.  Struggling to maintain independence from the police, while trying to do everything to get your daughter back.  Every parent’s worst nightmare is on full display in Brenham’s second book in The Barry Marshall Series.

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5/5 ⭐ | Blood at the Root by Ciahnan Darrell

Author Ciahnan Darrell is in a league of his own when it comes to writing powerful works of art.  After reading his debut, “A Lifetime of Men,” I knew he was no ordinary author.  The thought, prose, emotion, and multifaceted angles in which he approaches his characters are what makes Darrell stand out in his unique ability to craft a story. So, when his second book, “Blood at the Root” was released I knew it had the potential to be incredibly impactful.

In a time of racial unrest, inequalities, and brutality, Darrell’s latest book “Blood at the Root” is gripping.  What begins as a horribly grotesque, disturbing, and brutal video of white billionaire Christopher Fairchild, unravels into the impact of this video’s fallout.  From police, homeless, drug dealers, illegal immigrants, widows, parents, and more, the pieces that shift as a result of this video, the effects of the video’s widespread release are reactive and moving.

“Blood at the Root” is a timely, layered, powerful, and captivating read.  Spiraling through a multitude of characters and relationships as it all centers around this film, this event, this message.  Timely in its portrayal, powerful in its delivery, and memorable in its message, Ciahnan Darrell has created another unique masterpiece.

Between each character, readers are given a short break via “The Giggle House” comedy sketch.  Clearly voiced from the point of view of a black comedian talking about “wypipo” this “lighter” piece serves to break up the heavy events concurrently taking place throughout the read.  “The Giggle House” serves to inject a bit of comedy and humor in an otherwise dark, yet true glimpse of humanity.

Reading almost like a compilation of short stories orbiting around this seismic videography event, “Blood at the Root” is searingly intense and critically important.  

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5/5 ⭐ | Game Piece (The Barry Marshall Series Book 1) by Alan Brenham

Having grown up in a family of law enforcement the home life, marital stress, and dedication to the job are all too familiar.  Author Alan Brenham captures all this and more in this first book of The Barry Marshall Series, “Game Piece.”

Cancelled date nights, working weekends, late hours, and minimal time with young daughter, Cailey, are all too frequent in the Marshall household.  Barry Marshall’s wife, Erin, has had enough.  Pressuring him to take a teaching job, the stress of his work coupled with the murder of her uncle, ATF agent Sam Robbins, has Erin looking for every reason to get Barry in a safer career. 

Currently working what is quickly stacking up to be a serial killer on the loose, Barry is committed to stopping the murderer, once again at the expense of his family.  As deaths continue to stack up, Barry recognizes the victims.  Barry seems to be part of the killer’s game as he continues to phone him, plant clues, and taunt him over the phone.  While all this is occurring, Erin’s girl’s nights become more frequent, as pressure from her friends, and the stress of the killer comes to a head.

Brenham brilliantly captures the life of law enforcement families, the push and pull of saving others and maintaining a family balance.  The realities are glaringly on display as the Marshall family navigates the weight of Barry’s career. 

Barry Marshall makes for a relatable and frustrating main character.  Continuously choosing one at the expense of another.  “Game Piece,” and the killer’s game of murder, keeps readers on their toes as the hunt wears on.  Racing against the clock, Brenham’s Barry Marshall Series is an intense ride.    

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5/5 ⭐ | Dreamscape Conspiracy (Book 1 of Dreamscape Conspiracy Series) by Gary G. Wise

Dr. Cara Williams has dedicated the last three years of her life to capturing and mapping dreams as part of her Dream Weaver research.  Using Dreamscape technology and a Neuronet device, her team is able to record dream prints of a participant’s REM dreams and capture them for storage on their Dreamscape servers.  However, during the debrief of a participant’s dream Dr. Williams realizes subject DR-12’s dream is identical to that of CM-22, a disturbing one that test her faith and morality alike. 

The discovery of a lab accident incidentally uncovers the ability of their technology to transmit previously captured dreams into other subjects.  This finding has immense implications as Dr. Cara Williams seeks funding for Phase 2 with these new project applications.  But the capabilities for this research to treat psychological illnesses such as depression, PTSD, and more through the uploading of dreams, feelings, and emotions while a patient sleeps is a direct threat to those in the business of medicating illnesses.  The web of conspiracy that follows will leave readers at the edge of their seat as the implications, threats, and reverberating consequences unravel.

Author Gary G. Wise expertly pens a chilling science fiction-esque, thrill ride.  From the laboratory to the gun range, chili diner, and warehouses, “Dreamscape Conspiracy” is an exciting and thought-provoking adventure. Smart and driven Dr. Cara Williams, and ex-military, fifth year senior Russell Carter make for two intriguing characters. As the plot progresses, and these two unlikely main characters draw together, a David and Goliath story begins to emerge.

“Dreamscape Conspiracy” is just the beginning.  Wise has crafted an all too scary and realistic read in a time of big pharma.  But “you cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too” as readers are left pondering Dr. William’s choices, and the fate of this discovery (p. 214). 

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5/5 ⭐ | No More Lies (The Jason Scarsdale Series Book 3) by Alan Brenham

Seven years after their marriage, Jason Scarsdale and Dani Mueller have faced some tough times.  The death of Jason’s daughter, Shannon, has rocked them.  Jason has understandably struggled to carry on, and their marriage is facing a crossroads.  Using a trip to D.C. to save their floundering marriage with a second honeymoon, Dani’s world is shaken once again when Jason goes missing.

With an unrecognizable dead body and a detective with a vendetta against women, Dani is in the cross hairs as she tries to find Jason before they can put her away for his murder.  Hatchett, Malloy, Mueller, and Scarsdale, four unique characters drive the excitement and suspense of author Alan Brenham’s third novel in The Jason Scarsdale series.  Taking us across the pond, from D.C. to London as Dani hunts down leads, skips out on bail, and is determined to get to the bottom of Jason’s disappearance.

With the absence of Scarsdale in most of this book, understandably Dani is our lead narrator and main character.  I enjoyed this change of perspective as the plot continued to revolve entirely around Jason, but from the view of the suspect, widow, wife.  This unique point of view change at this juncture of the the series added an additional level of intrigue and excitement as we traversed the bumpy road of Dani’s innocence. 

Questioning motives, police procedure, and referencing Dani’s background as a defense attorney showed Brenham’s range for writing.  Stepping out of his law enforcement boots and using his criminal prosecutor and defense attorney experience, Brenham provides a realistic and twisted case across the continents.  Once again, an ending you won’t see coming, leaving readers anxious for a book four….

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5/5 ⭐ | An Audacious Woman: A Novel (The Audacious Series Book 1) by Corinne Cavanaugh

Anyone that knows me knows that “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” is one of my favorite books.  So, it is unsurprising that I LOVED “An Audacious Woman.”  The wealthy, older woman, eccentric in her wishes, with an exciting and adventurous life, on the precipice of history, looking to get things off her chest in old age – makes for an incredible read!

Eleanor Beaufort is an audacious 85-year-old woman.  Tired of managing the large Beaufort estate, with no heirs to take it over, she decides to host a contest to give away her fortune.  With an open call for contestants, she chooses five candidates to move into the large 20,000 square foot home on the Upper East Side of Manhattan.  Dating back to 1901, and valued at over $70 Million, this is quite the bequest to give away to a contest winner. 

Each of the five contestants must move into the house for 30 days as they undergo a series of challenges to test their ability and business plans for the future of the estate.  The first of which is decided upon, on the fly, as the rooftop balcony crumbles while they are touring it.  As the contest wears on we are given glimpses of the extraordinary life Eleanor has lived, from her activist lifestyle to the arts, social scene, and relationships.  Readers easily fall into author Corinne Cavanaugh’s writing as she crafts a woman you can’t help but marvel at.  Not one to let the men off the hook so easily, Eleanor holds steady to her values and has the inner dialog of a true feminist queen. 

“An Audacious Woman” was quick and enjoyable.  Rightly rocketing to the top of my 2024 favorites list, there is much to love about the characters within.  Cavanaugh has created a remarkable women’s fiction read in this humorous, unconventional, and inspiring novel.  As a bonus, end capping this story are book club questions from the author, sparking thought and discussion that appropriately accompany the various themes and situations that arise in this book. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Rampage (The Jason Scarsdale Series Book 2) by Alan Brenham

Mad Dog, Rastaman, and Runt are the villains that steal the show in the second book of The Jason Scarsdale Series.  Navigating the complexities of a long-distance relationship as Dani Mueller has returned to Germany, Jason Scarsdale is determined to make it work.  But a string of murders and robberies with an odd signature prevents Scarsdale from celebrating his daughter’s birthday in Germany with Dani as planned. 

Author Alan Brenham does an incredible job of emotionally investing readers into the plot.  I felt real anger and frustration towards both Dani and Jason as they traversed a difficult relationship hurdle.  The decisions they both independently made had me shaking my head and screaming at the book in front of me. 

Woven amongst this personal tug of war is the fierce and scary ex-con, Mad Dog, and his henchmen followers as they commit heinous acts around the city.  Leaving a trail of destruction in their wake, with little remorse, as reality seems to blur.  With the pressure on for Scarsdale to catch them before they can kill any more innocent people, his relationship seemingly begins to unwind. 

Brenham shows his true talent for character creation as he provides dualling points of view, putting readers in the head of both an irrational killer, ex-con, and sociopath, as well as Scarsdale’s personal and professionally focused mind.  Through Scarsdale’s struggles as he receives a new partner on the force, deals with his own relationships, and faces a ticking clock with killers on the loose, the suspense and action never stops on the pages of “Rampage.”   

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5/5 ⭐ | Ran Like Joseph by Jimmy Deas

Author Jimmy Deas has spent more than 40 years in ministry.  Drawing from this experience he has created Mark Thomas, a twenty-five-year-old minister who has taken a less than traditional route to end up at the Gentry Baptist Church in small town Florida.  From the Air Force to college, Thomas dreams of going to Seminary school. 

Just one and a half months into his first role as lead pastor, the small town of Gentry is rocked by the odd death of one of their own.  First to the scene, and witness to the events, Reverend Mark Thomas cradles Sammy Garber as he says his last words, “Ran” and “Joseph.”   A local farmer who also plays part-time law officer rushes Sammy and Mark to the nearest hospital, but it’s too late.  Called upon to lead his first funeral in a gripping affair, the town rallies behind the young pastor as he finds his place as one of their own. 

Sprinkled with courting, romance, insecurities, and small-town hospitality, this first book in the Mark Thomas novels has readers feeling right at home.  “Ran Like Joseph” will grip readers as they discover the trials and tribulations of small-town living and the true heart of ministry, helping others.  Feel like one of Gentry’s own as Reverend Thomas makes a lasting mark on all he embraces. 

God’s plan guides us all, but Reverend Mark Thomas’ path is an interesting and entertaining journey to behold. Deas has gifted us the pleasure of falling into Mark Thomas’ life as he matures, grows in his ministry, and guides the town through this unexpected death.  “Ran Like Joseph” will have you asking for more as Thomas makes a lasting impact far beyond the page.

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5/5 ⭐ | Gabriel’s Fire: Action Adventure, Romantic Suspense, Multicultural Interracial (The Men of Throne Enterprises Book 2) by Lotchie Burton & Yolanda Barber (Editor)

Naomi James prefers to work alone.  Making Seattle her home and her streets, she doesn’t need Gabriel Cummings watching out for her.  After the bad guys with deep pockets get away, she’s determined to stop the human trafficking at the source.  Having befriended homeless and runaway fifteen-year-old, Aaliyah, she’ll even settle for Gabe lurking around “protecting” her if it means stopping the kidnapping and selling of young girls.  Panicked and looking for her friend, Aaliyah must learn to trust the team at Thorne Enterprises, and their resources, if she’s ever going to get Carol back. 

From homeless shelters to drug addicts, back alleys to Pike’s Market “Gabriel’s Fire” is an extraordinary romantic suspense with the tension, passion, intrigue and action that author Lotchie Burton is so good at.  No stranger to hard hitting, steamy romances Burton shows readers once again her talent for creating sexy men and strong independent women. 

Traversing the complexities and psychological impacts of life after the military, while wading deep into the human trafficking crisis, this is anything but a lighthearted read.  However, the dialogue, plot, character development, and chase are as realistic as if you are sweating alongside them.  The gripping fear, panic, and chemistry radiates off the page.  Burton has created a swoon worthy fight we can all get behind as Gabe works to win the woman and protect the girls.

With twists you won’t see coming, Naomi grapples with giving up a life of loneliness, as the men of Thorne Enterprises swoop in, toys, tricks, and plans up their sleeves to stop trafficking from the top.   

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5/5 ⭐ | Whispering Winds of Appalachia by John Ellington

“[Whispering winds] are the voices of loved ones that have moved on, whose spirits live in the freedom of the mountain air” – pg. 214.

If you know anyone who has traversed the Appalachian, they will tell you the beauty of nature is unlike any other.  That feeling, that presence, is captured on the page.  Author John Ellington writes in such a beautiful and lyrical way that has readers yearning to slow down and enjoy both the words and imagery it conjures.  The beauty and thought-provoking nature of this read are an intoxicating combination.

At a young age, Chris’ parents purchased a farmhouse in the Appalachian Mountains.  Just adjacent to their property was Davis Milk, a dairy farm run by a single father and his similarly aged young son.  As the years wore on, Chris and Walker Davis became inseparable, along with Brook Palmer the third best friend in their trio.  That is until Paul Wright eventually brought the trio, and the rest of Transylvania County, North Carolina, to their knees.

“Whispering Winds of Appalachia” breathes new life into the beloved literary fiction genre.  Reminiscent of classics such as “To Kill a Mockingbird,” Ellington has crafted a true masterpiece with this debut.  Transport yourself to the beautiful Appalachian Mountain landscape as you become lost in the friendships, heartbreak, and social class struggles that rip through this small North Carolina town.

Ellington’s writing leaves readers longing for more as his characters, backdrop, and storyline reignite our love of literature. 

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5/5 ⭐ | The K-Frost Caper by James Blakley

“What good is being rich, if you can’t enjoy it in this life?” – pg. 137.

Author James Blakley has crafted an action packed, fast-paced thriller in the melting pot of Miami.  From the very first page readers’ adrenaline will be pumping as Luna Nightcrow wraps up a deadly and exhilarating Talisman insurance fraud, immediately giving readers access to the type of work, dedication, and thrills such a job entails.

Luna Nightcrow is quickly reengaged for her next investigation as Charmed Life Mutual receives an application for a dead man.  Kelvin Frost reemerges two and a half years later, seeking more insurance after having drowned in Mobile, Alabama.  Accident or fraudulent deceit?  Luna is on the case as she makes for an excellent independent insurance investigator.  Off to Miami to get to the bottom of this, Luna is given free run of the city.  Stumbling into a bigger scheme afoot, Nightcrow is determined to unravel the murder, museums, and life insurance mayhem.

Blakley pens a fun and intriguing side to insurance fraud.  Taking something often thought of as mundane, life insurance, and creating an exciting, whirlwind of special agent proportions with his Luna Nightcrow character and her insurance investigations.  With a side of romance and courting, I loved the female perspective that was added to this read as Luna navigated her present-day life and the incompatibility with love and children that it poses. There were a lot of nuanced themes at play in this entertaining and exhilarating jaunt from Oklahoma to Miami.

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5/5 ⭐ | Price of Justice (The Jason Scarsdale Series Book 1) by Alan Brenham

Author Alan Brenham stays true to his writings of strong female characters in this thrill ride through “Price of Justice.”  However, the tough Dani Mueller takes more of a supporting role as newly single father, Jason Scarsdale, navigates the murder of a child pedophile. 

No reader is mourning the death of recently acquitted, but seemingly guilty, Scott Lasiter.  However, Dani Mueller, previously Karla Engel, has some experience with child molesters and murderers being set free, sitting in the back of the court room as justice once again seems to fail a grieving mother.  Mueller, no stranger to taking matters into her own hands, is determined to serve Lasiter justice.  But it would seem someone has beat her to it.

What follows is an adrenaline-fueled investigation as Austin Police Detective Jason Scarsdale navigates a web of pedophiles, murderers, and single fatherhood.  As Dani becomes ever closer to Shannon Scarsdale, she worries her past will muddy the personal life of Shannon’s father, Jason, but she also needs to ensure the spotlight is off her in his most recent sex crimes, turned homicide, case.  What neither of them braced for was the depth, feelings, and web of lies this case would uncover.

Kicking off this series, “Price of Justice” gives readers Jason at his lowest, fresh off the loss of his wife and deep in the midst of a truly appalling case. Brenham is unafraid to question the wheels of justice, right and wrong, and the nuanced complexities of real-life characters as The Jason Scarsdale Series promises to be an exceptional ride. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Before the Storm: The Formative Years of America’s Last Great Band by Robert Boyd

In an age where the youth views vintage Nirvana t-shirts as a “clothing brand” rather than a band that left a lasting mark on the world, author Robert Boyd reminds us of their greatness.  Taking readers all the way through their beginning, their rise, and their lasting impact on the world, “Before the Storm” is like nothing you’ve read before.

This book is not just the story of Kurt Cobain.  Of course, Kurt having been the lead in Nirvana and one of its founding members is quite prevalent throughout this read, but it’s all those around him – the drummer, radio stations, town of Alberdeen, and the nuanced facts that make this an engrossing read.  With tidbits of everything scattered amongst this wholly encompassing book, Boyd has created a work of art that will last beyond the sounds of their famed, and even less so records. 

Still, in 2024, Kurt Cobain and Nirvana continue to make a lasting impact.  They not only remain popular and well played, but also served as a catalyst to more within the genre.  With humble beginnings, touring out of personal vans, the passion, dedication, and stubbornness of Cobain and Krist Novoselic truly stood out to me. From the small town of Alberdeen, Washington Cobain and Novoselic created a lasting legacy. 

Through all the money shortages, drug abuse, relationships, loss of drummers, broken equipment, near empty venues, and song writing, “Before the Storm” brings readers a young, yet talented, musician through the formation of one of America’s greatest bands.  Before there was ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ there was imaginary friend ‘Boddah,’ Ritalin, Mari Earl, and a slew of band names. 

Boyd details the less than idyllic years of Cobain, Nirvana, and the uprising of a new genre of music.  Whether you are a fan of the band or not, “Before the Storm” is an incredible read.  

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5/5 ⭐ | When Things Fall Apart (The Kit Hanover Series Book 1) by Alan Brenham

Native American Kit Hanover is looking forward to finally landing in homicide, after dreaming of solving homicides throughout the academy.  However, being partnered Detective Wade Shepard is less than ideal.  The constant Pocahontas slurs and references to her Indian bloodlines are making it difficult to remain professional as Shepard rudely takes the investigative lead. At every turn Detective Shepard seeks to throw up roadblocks.  From getting Kit transferred to undercover decoy work on the Vice Human Trafficking team, to cutting her out of the homicide case that takes a personal turn, every bit of this book has readers seething over Shepard’s action. 

Author Alan Brenham crafts a great villain as readers quickly take a liking to Kit Hanover and the barriers she faces in law enforcement, while maintaining a level of mystery and intrigue regarding some of Kit’s strong dislikes and aversions, all of which will hopefully continue to come out as the series progresses.  Brenham, not one to shy away from using unique main characters, once again brings us a strong, representative female to the main page.  Adopted from the Comanche Nation reservation at a young age, Kit Hanover brings a fresh perspective, while injecting some diversity into the law enforcement community.

“When Things Fall Apart” is a strong kick off for Brenham’s new Kit Hanover Series.  Onboarding readers to the Fort Worth Police Department, various players within, and the crimes the various departments investigate.  Providing a powerful introduction to Kit’s family dynamics and personalities, this book will have readers rooting for Kit to succeed.

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5/5 ⭐ | Never Say A Word (The Claire Deveraux Series Book 2) by Alan Brenham

Just a few short years from the dreadful death of her brother Boyd and Louvre murder, Claire Deveraux is once again thrust into a horrendous experience. Back with the second book of The Claire Deveraux Series, author Alan Brenham takes readers to Italy as yet another personal nightmare plays across the page.

Claire Deveraux continues to work for the U.S. Embassy, in her most recent escapades she is sent to Rome for a foreign conference where she once again puts her lip-reading skills to work.  However, what she doesn’t realize is that she’s captured the unhealthy attention of Franco Lazzari.  Lazzari, as he calls himself, kidnaps Claire from the conference convinced he is going to make her his wife.  What follows is the whirlwind investigation, emergence of Claire’s twin Megan from her Luxembourg convent, and the frightening events that follow.

Brenham is exceptional in his French and Italian scenery.  From the European train travel to the Italian countryside, return to Paris, and various rendezvous within, readers are expertly transported from their reading chair to the European culture.  With a unique main character in the deaf and talented Claire Deveraux, eyes are opened to the silence and loneliness that encompass her life.  “Never Say A Word” shines a light on the struggles of living deaf, from romance, to friendship, living alone, and situational awareness.  I loved that readers are given a front row seat to walk in Claire’s shoes as she openly navigates the terror of her situation, her desire for love, and the loneliness that often accompanies her.

“Never Say A Word” is an incredible continuance of The Claire Deveraux Series as Brenham brings back the beloved Claire and her twin Megan in this nightmarish foreign kidnapping thrill ride.

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5/5 ⭐ | Stone Cold (Book 2: A Cameron Stone Action Thriller) by Thomas LeBrun

Back on New York soil, with Edmond Raines very alive and presence now known, this second book in the Cameron Stone Action Thriller series does not fail to deliver once again.  Teaming up, this band of highly trained Close Protection Specialists and law enforcement, hope to finish what they started in book one, “Sticks and Stones.” 

Enter the Chinese Triad, rich billionaires, trained killers, close protection specialists gone rogue, and more.  The epic standoff finale is an immediate classic that will have readers loving every second of “Stone Cold,” as the best and most talented face off.  Forget the street fighting we’ve come to know in today’s thrilling reads, author Thomas LeBrun brings clean, honorable, and highly trained fighting to the forefront.  From the training, preparation, safety precautions, grandfather figures, gyms, shadow battles, and grand finale there is a lot of nostalgia, reminiscent of the martial arts we all grew up watching in “Karate Kid,” “Ip Man,” and more. 

Picking up right where book one left off, Cameron Stone is out for revenge, as Raines sees much of his younger self in Stone.  LeBrun brings to the page a wealth of knowledge and experience making “Stone Cold” a realistic and well-crafted read.  From the discovery of lost family, mentors, and loved ones, as well as the increasing presence of figures in the shadows, well-trained enemies, and thwarted plans, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat page after page. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Sticks and Stones (Book 1: A Cameron Stone Action Thriller) by Thomas LeBrun

Author Thomas LeBrun himself is no stranger to Close Protection Services.  Having spent his career protecting others, it is no surprise his characters are centered around this same profession.  A livelihood such as this is often lived in the shadows, training, staying knowledgeable, and protecting those that need you. “Sticks and Stones” is a thrilling read, no stranger to nefarious plots. 

I loved the dual stories going on within the pages of this quick and exciting read.  Beginning with Edmond Raines life and the fateful bombing that killed his wife, and likely young son, although a body was never found, in 1991.  And ending in Mount Sinai hospital, “Sticks and Stones” never lacked for action.  With an inside, and front row seat to the Close Protection Services, this book was an eye-opening thrill ride.

From Edmond Raines rediscovering himself after the devastating loss of his family, and Cameron Stone’s life in the protective services.  The expert knowledge, situational awareness, and LeBrun brings to the page make for a realistic page-turning read.  Housing a Grand Master, Tosh Yokahama, the young and talented Cameron Stone, and even Stone’s love interest, Sara, the characters within are diverse and harness skills unrivaled as they are put to the test.

From New York to Australia, Kazakhstan, and back, close protection specialists travel the world putting their lives on the line for those who hire them.  Cameron Stone and Edmond Raines kick the door wide open for readers to experience the action, danger, and situational encounters present in their line of work.  All while seeking to uncover the truth and protect those they love most.

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5/5 ⭐ | The Ascension Legacy: Book 5: Conquest & Conflict by Gary Richardson

Book One Review

Book Two Review

Book Three Review

Book Four Review

On the heels of big reveals, death, and battle comes the fifth book in The Ascension Legacy series, “Conquest & Conflict,” the very things being inflicted on the lands of Corsallis within the pages of this read. 

In author Gary Richardson’s latest of the series, the self-proclaimed King of the North begins to make advancements on neighboring territories.  Marching his troops into battle as he takes town after town.  Riorik and crew, having witnessed the troops forward march to Kern, race to warn the others, seeking assistance and resistance against the enemy’s advancements.  But can the territories get over their racial prejudice to overcome the power and strength of the army behind the self-appointed King of the North, otherwise known as The Dark Lord of Narsdin? 

Readers are taken back to noteworthy towns including Rishdel and Tyleco, but we also get our first real look at the forces of Mechii, Rhorm, and Dresdin.  Skepticism, fear, lack of empathy, and hunger for power guide the various leaders within to make the decisions found amidst “Conquest & Conflict” as the battles between good versus evil rage on. 

Despite the fantastical nature of the characters within, the underlying story, themes, and struggles housed in The Ascension Legacy series are extremely realistic.  Richardson feeds us important lessons through the stories contained amongst these pages.  Readers will find themselves rooting on Riorik and team, as dark forces advance. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Every Silent Thing (The Claire Deveraux Series Book 1) by Alan Brenham

Three French words, a flash drive, and a dead woman.  That’s more than Claire expected out of her day photographing the Louvre, but it’s the strong kick off to author Alan Brenham’s book “Every Silent Thing.”  And yet, that’s not even the most exciting part of this read.  It’s the family dynamics and messes her family members find themselves in that make this such a speedy read.

Claire Deveraux works for the U.S. Embassy in Paris, France.  Originally from Texas, she has an identical twin sister and twin brother, a family of adopted triplets.  Claire though, lives a life of silence.  Deaf, with the ability to lip read and sign, she lives every day extra aware in her silent surroundings.  Being hunted by the Louvre killer is enough for any single woman in a foreign country, but add to that the trouble her sister, Megan, finds herself in and Claire is increasingly in danger. 

From the other side of the world Megan watches her boyfriend get shot to death, stealing the heisted diamonds, and running from the murderers.  With nowhere else to turn, Megan buys a one-way ticket to France.  Dragging her identical twin into her decisions can prove to be a fatal flaw as she tries to outrun her mistakes.

I love a strong female lead.  Add in a disability and representation for those that are deaf or hard of hearing and “Every Silent Thing” was an instant draw.  Author Alan Brenham does a fantastic job opening readers’ eyes to the world Claire navigates, her communication frustrations and even the loneliness she feels being unable to communicate outside of text or pen to paper. Furthermore, I loved Brenham’s back and forth, chapter by chapter, from hunter to hunted.  This rotating point of view added to the intrigue, suspense, and thrill of the chase. 

As Claire tries to escape with her own life from the Louvre killer, Megan is in her own cat and mouse chase, while their brother Boyd works to keep the family together, all while their adopted father back in Texas fights his own battles with cancer.  The finale of this hunted thrill ride comes together in a way readers will never see coming. Brenham weaves so many important, realistic, challenging, and eye-opening dynamics into this first book of The Claire Deveraux Series, brace yourself as the series continues.

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5/5 ⭐ | Strength in Motion: The Next Chapter of Stroke by Terence Ang

Author Terence Ang opens up his life, his stroke experiences, and his ongoing battle post-stroke unlike anything before.  Failure is guaranteed, but it isn’t the end; it’s the getting back up and striving to continue that makes the winding road of recovery successful.

In Ang’s previous books, “A Cry In The Dark” and “Emerging From the Dark,” his artistic talents were on display as he navigated his stroke and recovery.  But, in his newest book “Strength in Motion” he uses the typewriter and a variety of photos and videos (via QR Code) to provide readers access like never before to the difficulties, journey, variety of recovery techniques, and even setbacks on his path to independence.

As a reader you are immersed in Ang’s world as you go with him from occupational therapy to personal trainer, Pilates and more.  Each is offered from the perspective of Ang, as well as insights and understanding from the trainer, doctor, or advocate’s perspective.  The first two reads in Ang’s arsenal walked readers through the medical and psychological side of a stroke.  “Strength in Motion” opens readers to the continued rehabilitation, in all the forms it takes, of Ang’s recovery process. 

Rehab isn’t just physical therapy and doctor’s appointments.  Rehab is a way to improve quality of life and assist in regaining some level of performance, independence, comfort in tasks, and much more.  There isn’t any one person in Terence’s life that provides the singular rehabilitation he desires or necessitates to reach his goals.  Terence maintains a whole host of trained and qualified individuals to provide him the tools, strategies, and training to continue progressing in his recovery.  Even when a fall sets him back, the team he surrounds himself with, both personally and as a source of rehabilitation, pick him back up and set him back on the right path. 

I loved that Ang gave us an upfront and personal view of his exercises, individuals supporting him, and what he’s accomplished as a result.  Once again, his work opens the door on stroke and stroke recovery to readers, advocates, others who’ve suffered or care for someone who’ve suffered a stroke. 

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5/5 ⭐ | The Ascension Legacy: Book 4: A Fallen Hero by Gary Richardson

Book 1 Review – The Shamed Ranger

Book 2 Review – A Legend Confirmed

Book 3 Review – A Hidden King Found

There is no shortage of action, intrigue, and reveals in this fourth book of The Ascension Legacy series. 

“The Ascension Legacy: Book 4: A Fallen Hero” is the most dramatic and action-packed of the series yet.  This read leads up to a grand finale of reveals and revelations, despite another two books promised in the series.  While our dynamic band of outcasts continues their journey to uncover more of the Ascension Armor, Riorik continues to have added motivations via his desire to find his missing father, the disgraced ranger that disappeared shortly before he was born. 

From the parting of Asbin, to Wuffred again going berserk, a magical mage face off, and an unlikely character following their every move, “A Fallen Hero” continues to spark the series flame and reader desire for more.  As Riorik and crew continue to traverse the kingdom of Corsallis, our mysterious master begins rallying his troops for Corsallis’ conquest and conquer.  The energy, fear, power, and tension leap off the page as it carries us into book 5, aptly named “Conquest & Conflict.” 

Author Gary Richardson begins to ingeniously unwind hidden identities in this fourth book, sparking reader intrigue and leading to yet more theories and possibilities, both for the reader and our unwitting band of misfits within.  Wargs, orcs, gnolls, humans, barbarians, dwarves, elves, and gnomes continue to grace the pages of this fantastical read, traversing the landscape across Corsallis.  Drawing readers in, shocking them through many turns, and energizing them as the series finale looms ever present.  

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5/5 ⭐ | The Ascension Legacy: Book 3: A Hidden King Found by Gary Richardson

The Ascension Legacy: Book 1: The Shamed Ranger by Gary Richardson – Review Here

The Ascension Legacy: Book 2: A Legend Confirmed by Gary Richardson – Review Here

The journey for the Ascension Armor carries on as our wanderers traverse through the lands in search of the armor of legends.  Riorik, Asbin, Wuffred, Nordahs and Ammudien make for quite the crew as they each bring with them their own skills, abilities, and talents.  Human, dwarf, gnome, and elves, together as cast-aways, drawn together through their hunt for the armor. 

Book three of the series “A Hidden King Found,” moves at a quick pace as author Gary Richardson weaves more of the mysterious master into the mix.  In this book, readers garner more of an understanding of the various players, political allies, and the alliances ongoing as big shifts start to be made.  Decisions undertaken in this third book start the unraveling that sets off the course of the kingdom and race for the Ascension Armor. 

With a full coat of armor and face always covered, this persistence in hiding his identity consummately sets off readers’ imaginations as the puppet master behind the scenes, our mysterious master.  Halfway through this series our elusive master, sprinkled throughout the first two books, finally begins to emerge as the curtain is pulled back on his plans. I found my mind racing every time he was present on the page, trying to guess his identity and motivations as his plan begins to take shape within this read.

From a clashing battle to mage magic, entering a town for critical help, and the continued character development of our main quintet, Richardson continues his expert winding of The Ascension Legacy series with “A Hidden King Found.”  I cannot wait to continue to see this series unfold as big moves are being made and legacies uncovered.

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5/5 ⭐ | The Ascension Legacy: Book 2: A Legend Confirmed by Gary Richardson

All the YA fantasy I grew up loving is reminiscent in this series.  Choose your guild then prove you’re capable, outcast main characters, a father’s mistakes, a band of misfits coming together while evil lurks around them.  It’s all there in author Gary Richardson’s fantastic series. 

Book two of The Ascension Legacy, “A Legend Confirmed” picks up right where book one dropped us.  While the character arcs from book one continue, Richardson expertly introduces us to new lovable characters as Hugh/Wuffred, Nordahs, and Riorik trek deeper into the woods, away from the city they’ve called home.

Asbin breathes life into our rag-tag and lovable group of ex-ranger guild cadets, metaphorically and literally in the case of Wuffred.  Each with their own story of being without a home and wondering the woods, they band together and set off to find the ruins Riorik’s father claims existed before he himself was never heard from again. 

Conversely, book two “A Legend Confirmed” heavily focuses on the orcs and gnolls journey.  While present in book one, these unique characters take on a life and personalities of their own in this read.  Previously moving on separate trajectories, these two stories remain parallel to each other, but blips of convergence begin to take shape as the story progresses. 

“The Ascension Legacy: Book 2: A Legend Confirmed” holds the reader’s attention as I found myself anticipating each group’s movements and progress toward their goal, ending with a brilliant epilogue! Richardson leaves you hungering to immediately dig into the next book as clashing begins and the mysterious master begins to take heed.

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5/5 ⭐ | The Ascension Legacy: Book 1: The Shamed Ranger by Gary Richardson

History has forced them apart.  Many generations ago four warriors set out together, known as the Ascendant Lords, among them was an elf, a human, a gnome, and a dwarf.  What they found and created, a mythical Ascension Armor, eventually led to anger, greed, and hate for the other races.

Within his own elven village of Rishdel, Riorik Leafwalker faces his own prejudices for the actions of his father many years ago.  Deemed a traitor, his father once a hero ranger of the guild tainted the Leafwalker name.  So much so that his own brother Kirin chose to study magic in the town of Mage rather than remaining at home and joining the ranger guild.

When Riorik becomes of age his decision to join the rangers is met with hostility.  He must successfully complete the required hunt to officially join the cadet ranks.  But what he discovers is that he is not the only cadet met with glares and distain, a human has also chosen the path of ranger.

Author Gary Richardson has crafted a mythical world in which the problems of fictional characters within are oft too reminiscent of real life.  With elements of choice, hatred, friendship, and legacy the races within face relatable and yet extraordinary dilemmas. 

Running concurrently to Riorik’s trajectory is the conquest of the gnolls and orcs seeking something their ‘Master’ deems of extreme value.  These parallel stories, slowly colliding together provide readers a well-rounded glimpse of the lands, the races, and their motivations. 

“The Ascension Legacy: Book 1: The Shamed Ranger” provides a strong start to a promising adventure.  Quickly snaring readers into its pages, Riorik is an enticing lead as his small band of friends try to prove their labels wrong.  I love where Richardson is taking this as “The Ascension Legacy: Book 2: A Legend Confirmed” is calling for more!

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5/5 ⭐ | False Summit: The Truth is Hard to Face… (A Tyler Zahn Novel Book 2) by Cam Torrens

Author Cam Torrens returns with his sophomore novel, “False Summit.”  After introducing readers to Tyler Zahn, flaws, skills, and all in his first book, “Stable,” he returns with more action-packed search and rescue.

Kristee Li, a real-life Wonder Woman in Z Man’s eyes.  Having done all the 14ers Colorado has to offer and a level of competence for the Arkansas River rivaling Yo-Yo Ma’s knowledge of the cello, Tyler ‘Z Man’ Zahn knows there’s no better person to respond to a Search and Rescue (SAR) call than Li herself.  So, when a call comes in for hikers missing on the Three Apostles trail, Zahn prioritizes his classes and stays behind to focus on his reserve deputy academy training instead.  However, when Kristee doesn’t return he can’t shake the feeling that there’s more to her disappearance. 

With alternating points of view from Tyler Zahn’s present predicament to Kristee Li in the lead up to her disappearance, readers begin to gather the unraveling pieces in Kristee’s life.  Suddenly, we are left wondering if maybe her disappearance wasn’t an accident at all, and Zahn seems to be the only one determined to find her as he unwaveringly seeks to uncover the truth. 

Bringing back beloved characters and introducing us to new, dubious personalities, Torrens’ newest in the Tyler Zahn series reads successfully as a standalone.  Guiding us through the ins and outs of SAR, as well as the friendships and relationships within, this adventure is a thrilling ride!  Cam Torrens uses his own expertise and knowledge to craft a realistic Buena Vista thriller.  Buckle up and grab your 24-hour pack because readers are sure to fly through Tyler Zahn’s latest adventure.

Click HERE to get your copy today!

5/5 ⭐ | Her Big Easy Hideaway: A Mystery Thriller Novel by Michael Merson

Author Michael Merson’s latest may be his best yet!  Filled with all the New Orleans hidden food gems, cartel wars, and a wife that’s faked her own death, this action packed read quickly flies off the page.

Diego Cruz went from reputable career to running the Reino de Reyes cartel.  Known as one of the most merciless killers, his brutality doesn’t stop with his enemies, beating his wife time and time again despite his declarations of love.  So, when her sister dies from a terminal cancer diagnosis, Alejandra takes her husband’s private jet to fly in, alone, for the funeral.  Using this moment as her escape, Alejandra’s plane goes down in a storm over the Gulf of Mexico, devastating the husband she’s left behind as she attempts to re-start her life, with her twin sister’s name.

Along Governor Nicholls Street in New Orleans tourists are sure to stop and admire the long forgotten, old mansion that remains there.  Alejandra, now Natalie Smith, is determined to bring the old mansion back to life.  It’s a tale as old as time as handsome contractor Beau Boudreaux takes on the job, catching Natalie’s eye and a piece of her heart in the process. 

This action-packed, cartel laced, love story brings with it brutality, seedy characters, misplaced loyalties, and hired gunmen.  From the streets of New Orleans to the skies of Florida, Mexico, and beyond “Her Big Easy Hideaway” spans thousands of miles as Diego Cruz spares no sympathies as he tracks down the thief of his millions.  Despite rival cartel Botas Negras moving in on his territory, Diego grieves his wife and his fortune, stopping at nothing to get to the bottom of it.

Merson holds a familiarity with the streets of New Orleans that is ever present throughout “Her Big Easy Hideaway.”  From the local restaurants to the architecture and businesses within the Quarter, the detail is extraordinary throughout.  He’s created a romance that readers root for as ‘Natalie’ and Beau’s lives begin to entangle.  Just as she’s settling into the new life she’s created, paranoia creeps in as her past begins to catch up to her. 

“Her Big Easy Hideaway” is an easy read to get sucked into, leaving readers hungering for more of Merson’s offerings.  His background in law enforcement and experience hunting down morally depraved individuals, on the wrong side of the law, lends well in crafting this realistically thrilling escape.

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5/5 ⭐ | The Poison Dart: A Debbie Bradley Mystery (Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries Book 2) by Geri L. Dreiling

The fierce, determined, and resilient Debbie Bradley is back for more in this second installment of the Debbie Bradley Crime Mysteries series.  “The Poison Dart” begins in a sadly relatable endemic, drug addiction.  When son of prominent St. Louis real estate family, Caleb Webb, passes away from a heroin and fentanyl overdose reporter Debbie Bradley picks up the story. 

Crafting Debbie Bradley with hints of her own background, author Geri L. Dreiling brings to the page a wealth of experience as both a lawyer and journalist herself.  “The Poison Dart” brings with it the tangled web of the cartel, drugs, and those who fall prey to their product.  Addiction doesn’t discriminate between rich and poor as Dreiling crafts an all to realistic fall into heroin and the conflicted suffering family and friends of addicts live with.

Like the poison dart frog, drugs have a toxic effect not only on the body, but on families and relationships too.  The jump from painkillers to heroin is a familiar tale as Debbie Bradley slowly unravels the story within.  Never one to shy away from danger, the characters, confessions, and breadcrumbs once again seem to follow her home.

“The Poison Dart” reads successfully as a standalone, providing enough back story and recap of Debbie’s highlights to ensure readers can jump right in on book two.  But fans of book one, “Crime Beat Girl,” will recognize the history between several of the supporting characters contained in these pages.  From Detective Flannery to Chase Laclede, editor Sam and her own sounding board and lawyer of a mother, Beth, all remain ever present within this second book.

Dreiling successfully intertwines her aptitude for law, reporting, and writing in this riveting read as Debbie Bradley returns to the page to break the story wide open once again.  With a talent for plot creation, patiently unwinding the threads of all angles, and never lacking for excitement, Dreiling is an author you will want to read time and time again.

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5/5 ⭐ | Beach Escape: A Gripping Suspense Filled Mystery (The Mystery Destination Series: Suspense Awaits Your Arrival) by Michael Merson

On the heels of a wild, deadly shoot out with three old ex-cons and the men who protected them during lock up, Shelby is granted her father’s remaining possessions.  Shelby hasn’t spoken to or seen her father in quite some time.  Working as a server at a Nevada diner while her boyfriend tries to make it big time in the golf scene, she’s stunned when a lawyer shows up and learns her father has not only left her his car and money, but an old beach house in Pensacola.  Rushing home to surprise her boyfriend with the news, Shelby soon hits the road for her new home…solo.

Unsure what she’s walking into, and unaware she’s being hunted by killers, the same ones who sought out her own father, Shelby’s road trip to Florida makes for a suspenseful read.  With contrasting forces simultaneously trying to kill her, and a mystery man protecting her, the road to her new beach house is bumpy and frightening. 

It isn’t all waves and sunshine once she arrives though as the house is in neglect and a team is assembling to finish her father’s legacy once and for all.  Author Michael Merson delivers once again with this thrilling adventure.  “Beach Escape” departs from The Myster Destination Series: Suspense Awaits Your Arrival’s pattern of air travel as Merson takes to the road in this latest read.  No stranger to the Florida sunshine this home along Pensacola beach brings the romantic suspense, blood, and action. 

“Beach Escape” brings readers a thrilling road trip, ripe with truck stops, new friends, and some shopping along the way.  Ever present in Merson’s repertoire are hired guns and electrifying hunts.  Bringing his law enforcement background and talent for writing once again in this gripping read.

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5/5 ⭐ | Reversing the Cataclysm: Book Three of the Thule Trilogy by Joab Stieglitz

Travels, adventure, and the Red Wizard are back as Anna sets off to reverse the cataclysm she set off in The Utgarda Trilogy. Aptly named, “Reversing the Cataclysm” is Anna’s driving force in this epic finale to the Thule Trilogy. 

Author Joab Stieglitz blows readers away with the creation of alter egos in the worlds within this trilogy.  With shifting alter egos present as a result of the Collective’s influence, Anna has her guard up on this journey.  From the reintroduction of Sif, Ganon, Govil, and many more, Dr. Anna Rykov must sort out her prior experiences from her present with each of these characters.  Embarking into unwelcome territory once again, the crew she’s assembled must set off to undo the cataclysmic events of Anna’s past.

Wrapping up this trilogy in fantastic fashion.  The action, the journey, the lively characters, and extreme beasts along the way make this yet another entertaining read from Stieglitz.  Throughout his series, both The Utgarda Trilogy, and this most recent The Thule Trilogy the growth of his writing, character development, and fantasy lands is on full display.  Transporting readers directly into his imaginations, these worlds are extremely detailed and understandable at every level, surface to the water, islands, woods and caverns, the scenery is outstanding.  From the crocodile-like beasts of Thule to the insects of Utgarda, the creativity and ingenuity of Stieglitz work is on full display.

“Reversing the Cataclysm” and Dr. Anna Rykov’s story ends in the best way, like a movie in blazing glory. Joab Stieglitz has created a masterpiece with this finale.

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5/5 ⭐ | One Hundred Words: A Collection of Short Stories by Michael E Smidts

“One Hundred Words” is so brilliant.  Named due to the length of each short story, one-hundred words, readers are quickly spun by the text and spit back out once again.  Such a unique and exhilarating reading experience, I can’t say I’ve ever experienced anything quite like it, in the best way possible!

Take stories such as “Time Cab: Mourning Rays,” in a present-day world where taxis are often left unused in a world of Ubers, author Michael E. Smidts presents the story of a taxi that can take you to destinations in time rather than simply present-day physical ones.  Imagine going to the past to see someone just one more time, even if they can’t see you, that’s the beauty of this short.  Other stories, such as “Consolation Prize,” feel so painfully truthful and dramatically real, you can’t help but react.  While yet more leave you wondering what’s happening in the fictional characters’ reality to warrant that response and reaction within Smidts’ story. 

There’s so much baked into these short stories you find yourself yearning to read them again, share them quickly with the person next to you, and keep thinking about the outcome long after the story has ended.  This is a compilation of short, short stories, with each never running longer than one page, it is a truly extraordinary collection.  Laid out in a style that ranges from a half page, to just shy of a full page, there is so much packed into so few words. 

The work of true talent to convey so much into such a short number of words, time and time again are what make this read so spectacular.  Each story is unique and yet captivating.  Smidts’ work is truly remarkable.  

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5/5 ⭐ | The Worlds I Know: Book Two of the Thule Trilogy by Joab Stieglitz

This second book, “The Worlds I Know” whisks readers straight from book one, “The Hunter in the Shadows,” as author Joab Stieglitz pivots to travel by sea.  Anna is bustled right out of her home onto an elegant ocean liner, setting her on her way to help the British understand their discovery.  This trek to northern England from her busy and lively home in Wellersburg, New York also means the potential promise of more Ogden Shroud, an exciting proposition for readers who became endeared to him in book one.

“The Worlds I Know” is aptly named as Dr. Anna Rykov treks across the pond to examine and explore oddities discovered in a mining survey, including hieroglyphics written in characters from Brian Teplow’s imaginary world.  How could imaginary creations of Brian Teplow’s mind cross over into the archaeology of the real world?  Anna sets off to find out. With this mining discovery as the portal between worlds, readers are shown the effects of Anna’s encounters in The Utgarda Trilogy and the lasting impacts of her experiences in the other realms. 

Stieglitz mind continues to play across the page as we are further ingratiated into the lasting effects of Brian Teplow’s imaginary world and the cataclysm that resulted from their prior embarking into the other realms.  Seamlessly playing off his earlier work, Stieglitz has embarked on creating an entirely engrossing fantasy world, this time entrapping Anna within.

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5/5 ⭐ | Key Getaway: A Mystery Thriller Novella (The Mystery Destination Series: Suspense Awaits Your Arrival) by Michael Merson

What begins as a sort of meet-cute when the flight attendant rudely moves Brooke’s seating for a last second flight addition, quickly turns into a suspenseful romance.  Defense attorney turned businessman Oliver “Ollie” Finch is on his way to return home to his beach rental company in the Florida Keys when Brooke is forced to vacate her prime seating for him. Escaping Pensacola for the Florida Keys with her best friend and business partner, Jenny, Brooke’s vacation is off to a bumpy start.  Hoping to relax with her current read about shipwrecks of the Caribbean, her new seating arrangement ensures little reading is had.  Hoping to leave the airport and the annoying man who stole her seat behind, she is less than thrilled when Ollie’s friend Luke hits it off with Jenny after running into each other at the hotel restaurant. Despite being courted by handsome businessmen, Luke and Ollie, Jenny and Brooke unsuspectingly get caught up in a sunken treasure heist and murder plot as their vacation turns deadly. 

Enticing readers with the promise of sunken ships from long ago, and long-lost treasures, readers are instantly gripped between these pages as author Michael Merson crafts a master plot that circles the drain to the very finale.   Readers’ intuition and hunches are flipped on their head just as they begin to navigate the twists.   I was instantly captivated as “Key Getaway” opens in the familiar hustle and bustle of airports.  As we are wound through various criminal points of view and treasure hunting dangers, the contrast between the innocence of Brooke and the seemingly nefarious practices of these otherwise strangers puts you right on edge.

“Key Getaway” transports readers to the beautiful beaches of the Florida Keys.  Set amongst pirates and lost treasures, this current day romantic suspense is full of thrills, chills and watching your back. 

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5/5 ⭐ | The Hunter in the Shadows: Book One of the Thule Trilogy by Joab Stieglitz

Author Joab Stieglitz has seamlessly taken reader favorite Dr. Anna Rykov straight out of his Utgarda series and made her the lead of this next series, The Thule Trilogy.  Kicking off with book one “The Hunter in the Shadows” readers are reintroduced to familiar names and characters such as Dr. Rykov, Eliezer Feldman, and Sobak, Anna’s fictional sister.  But we are also given new, intriguing, and mysterious characters such as Dr. Cornelius Lyton, Dr. Wolfram van Juntz, and my favorite Ogden Shroud. 

With her dog Cletus by her side, Anna sets off for Boston to eliminate the Xuxxaax on behalf of the Collective to rescue Sobak from capture.  Set in the period of the Great Depression, “The Hunter in the Shadows” takes on a more historical feel than Stieglitz prior work.  Showing the poverty and homelessness present in Boston immediately upon Dr. Rykov’s arrival and the lengths people will go to survive, readers are endeared to Anna as she uses her wealth and fortune to further her cause.

“The Hunter in the Shadows” felt more emotionally enduring than Stieglitz prior reads.  Firmly planting readers in familiar Boston soil, we encounter a more sensitive side of Anna, even glimpsing some romantic tension between our scholarly lead and a certain Boston resident she encounters.  Using the locals for assistance in her quest, Anna takes on a more relatable quality to readers, further cementing her as a favorable central character.

Anna’s work for the Longborough Foundation really spearheads this latest series as readers are promised more action, more fantastical creatures, and more ties to other realms.  Stieglitz imagination is vividly captured on the pages of this read.  Transporting readers right into the action, the chase, and the promise for more.

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5/5 ⭐ | Mountain Retreat: A Mystery Thriller Novella (The Mystery Destination Series: Suspense Awaits Your Arrival) by Michael Merson

The saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t just apply to home projects, in the case of “Mountain Retreat” the cheaper the hired gun, the more poorly the job gets done. But, unlike a home project, a woman’s life is at stake in this fast-paced and thrilling read.

An unsuspecting woman is tracked from baggage claim to her death, or so Jeff Doyle thought.  Ex-police officer, forced to resign over misconduct, didn’t quite finish the job.  Finding her alive and chasing her off a cliff into the South Platte River was supposed to be the end of it, again. But, off duty Deputy Brody Katz got more than he bargained for when he spots her at his fishing hole clinging to life.  With no memories, and no idea how she got there, Brody is the only one she trusts.  As more hired guns come in to finish the job, will Brody’s Mountain Retreat keep her safe until her identity and the killers’ motives come to life?  The clock is racing in this heart pounding crime thriller.

Author Michael Merson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the page.  Having served in the Army and as a Colorado Spring police officer his scenery and action sequences are authentic and realistic.  Challenging readers to uncover the truth before our Jane Doe’s time expires, Merson leads us on a thrilling fight to the finish.  Weaving romance and trust, with uncertainty and fear the emotions play off the page. 

Lacing romantic suspense with crime and thrills. Deputy Brody Katz and our Jane Doe, or Memory as she’d prefer to be called, make for great romantic leads as their personalities shine through in their dance to uncover the truth behind Memory’s identity.

Merson gives readers senators, bodyguards, old friends, and cartel as the financial injections continue to pile up in ensuring the job is completed.  “Mountain Retreat” embraces the good versus evil, the corrupt versus the kind, in this whirlwind of adventure and fight to the finish.

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5/5 ⭐ | Embracing The Shadows: Navigating a Family’s Mental Illness by Marlene Dunham

“Embracing The Shadows” shines a light on the mental illness landscape.  From the past to the present, and the impacts it has had, the research within oscillates from a medical standpoint, genealogical standpoint and that of the author’s own family. 

Author Marlene Dunham didn’t set out to simply entertain with her family’s story, but to educate and inform in a way that brings to light the conversations surrounding mental illness. Coming from a family with their own diagnosed mental illnesses, I was drawn to Marlene’s story.  “Embracing The Shadows” is laid out in such a way that provides background on the diseases within, as well as the history of treatments and their impacts.  Additionally, Dunham provides prospective from each of her surviving siblings as they reflect on their upbringing and lasting effects of living in a family with members suffering from mental illnesses.  Starting with the union of her mother and father, readers get a sense her father brought with him some baggage.  At one point it is detailed that even his psychiatrist told her mother to run prior to their union.  Regardless, the marriage took place and six children resulted over the years. 

From prolonged hospital stays to various medical treatments and the introduction of lithium, the ups and downs of her father’s manic periods and depression took its toll on the family.  As each sibling recounts their childhood, the love or lack thereof they felt, and the reverberating repercussions of living in a family with prevailing mental illness, readers are given a front row seat to the impacts it had on each of their lives.  Even our author recounts her own experiences incidentally joining a cult, which she traces back to likely stemming from her upbringing.

I related to Dunham’s story, her family and their fears and experiences.  Mental illness is rarely discussed in families, there is a negative stigma that can persist around it, but Dunham cracks the door open and allows for a dialogue to help embrace topics often kept in the shadows.  Providing both research and her own experiences Dunham has created a read that validates, verifies, and vindicates for all living with, or loving someone with mental illness.

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5/5 ⭐ | Unsettled: A Memoir by Laurie Woodford

Forty-eight years old, divorced and living in New York, author Laurie Woodford was having what some might call a mid-life crisis.  Hungry for adventure, tired of the same old, or in fact a mid-life crisis, whatever you call it, it was the catalyst to what became a laugh out loud hilarious memoir, “Unsettled.”

Prepare to cry from laughing, live vicariously, and gain perspective of the world through the travels laid across these pages.  With dating encounters that will have you belly laughing, like a gentleman with a wandering eye to the smooth, hairless complexion of someone entirely outside of Laurie’s self-described attraction to very hairy men.  To travel adventures like caring for a seventeen-year-old dog in exchange for a free place to lay your head, or to coming home early from work to construction workers using your fridge and unit as their own personal lunchroom, the stories within are truly entertaining.

Asia to South America, Mexico to Arkansas and Oklahoma, “Unsettled” packs the true realities of adventuring, dating in your fifties, and working in foreign countries.  Organized successively as a collection of experiences and events, author Laurie Woodford keeps readers coming back for more of her encounters and adventures.  Detailing the lonely, the learning, the challenges with time differences, and moving on, this memoir provides the good, the bad, and the hilarious of Woodford’s unsettled adventures.

Aptly named, and expertly presented, “Unsettled” is quite the memorable collection of travelling escapades.  Laurie’s hysterical antics and sidesplitting experiences made for an amusing and quick read.   

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5/5 ⭐ | First Things Last: Stories of Humor, Horror and Noir by Daniel Thompson

“First Things Last” is a collection of thirteen short stories.  Ranging from the short-short “When Tragedy Strikes” to the various episodes and chapters of “Famous Monsters.”  Author Daniel Thompson doesn’t shy away from any of the dark, twisted, head scratching exploits present in these various stories.  Tempting you to read through them twice as a nuanced and layered piece rears its head the second time around, these stories gnaw into your mind as you lose yourself to the story playing across the pages.

Short stories offer a chance for authors to flex their talents in creating plots, characters, and reader intrigue in a limited number of pages.  Thompson nailed this, and more, as he invited readers to critically reflect on his stories’ outcomes, think outside the box, and sit with the message and plot.  I found stories such as “Famous Monsters” and “Wolfenstock” playing in my head as if a movie on the screen, wholly engrossed and entirely entertained.  I loved the perspective and performance that teased across the page, from the desires and beliefs to the sport and depth each story was so entirely unique from the last.

See the world from a unique perspective, settle into the darkness, the horror, noir, and humor that Thompson has crafted amongst the stories preserved within. Drawing you in through his characters, their thoughts, desires, and reflections.  Whether a cloud, a killer, a movie star, or something else entirely, “First Things Last” draws readers in and captivates them story after story.

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5/5 ⭐ | Me and My Shadow: Memoirs of a Cancer Survivor by John Walker Pattison

Cancer affects those it encounters more than just physically.  There are emotional impacts, psychological impacts, and lifelong influences resulting from the disease. 

Author John Walker Pattison, born in 1957, admits to having a rather uneventful childhood.  While fun, happy, and full of life, nothing so newsworthy about his childhood would prompt a memoir.  Until 1975, at the age of eighteen when he begins experiencing bouts of fatigue.  So notable in fact that after climbing down into the cofferdams of a boat he is meant to be welding, he is found sleeping after missing lunch.  Time and time again his family doctor writes it off as something less life threatening, until he is admitted to the hospital with suspected appendicitis.  Tests, x-ray, pokes, and a series of investigations follows.  Resulting in our author being given no type of explanation, at least as far as he’s aware.  Learning later that his parents, in what they thought was an attempt to protect him, hid the truth of his cancer diagnosis. What follows is the toll this diagnosis took on him, his unrelenting love for Hawkwind and the unexpected support the Lakota Sioux Nation provided to him during his stage IV Hodgkin Lymphoma battle.

As a reader this memoir had a unique contribution to the field of cancer survivors.  Surviving stage IV lymphoma through the various treatments and long-term effects is an impressive and statistically unlikely event given his response to the treatment and options.  However, it’s the forty-seven-year survival, career pivot working thirty-two years as a nurse in cancer services, and his daughter also battling cancer at a young age that truly set this read apart from the rest.  The brutal honesty about his thoughts, psychological well-being, and treatment effects, open readers’ eyes to the gut-wrenching diagnosis of cancer and the guilt and responsibility that are placed on patient’s shoulders.   But the ongoing life he lives, dedication to the field of nursing in the same hospitals that treated him, and the comfort he found in Hawkwind and the Lakota Sioux Nation all these years later makes this a memorable read even after the last page is turned.

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5/5 ⭐ | The Other Realm: Book Three of the Utgarda Trilogy by Joab Stieglitz

“The Other Realm” wraps up The Utgarda Trilogy in an epic fashion.  As our three main characters, Anna, Harry, and Father O’Malley set off to release Brian Teplow from the sanatorium. Yet, they are surprised to find his return home isn’t as easy as they’d hoped.  This seemingly simple task takes a turn that ignites the trajectory of this book in an exciting and eventful way. 

Departing from the stateside approach we’ve become accustomed to with author Joab Stieglitz Utgarda Trilogy, book three introduces the Junazhi in more detail.  From the cans of brains and narration of Ambrose Bierce, readers enter a whole new plane of Stieglitz writing talent.  Within, Anna and Harry are thrust into the other realm where they traverse in captivity throughout most of this read. 

Alternating between Bierce and Fr. O’Malley watching the events play out stateside to Anna and Harry’s travels in the other realm, readers are kept on the edge of their seats as Brian Teplow’s imagination takes us for a wild adventure. Introducing new characters, playing with our minds through old characters, and fully plunging us into the world of suspenseful fantasy Stieglitz has created within.

While sadly “The Other Realm” wraps up the adventures of The Utgarda Trilogy, readers can end this trilogy buoyed by the fact that this isn’t the last we see of Dr. Anna Rykov.  Continuing with Anna’s adventures Stieglitz has taken this reader’s favorite character into a spin off series within The Thule Trilogy. Book one “The Hunter in the Shadows” promises to give us more of Dr. Rykov and the family she’s discovered in “The Other Realm.” 

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5/5 ⭐ | Unaccustomed to Grace by Lesley Pratt Bannatyne

Author Lesley Pratt Bannatyne has created an extraordinary collection of short stories housed within the pages of “Unaccustomed to Grace.”  From stories like “The Patron Saint of Bachelors and Toothaches” to “OMG Winn Handler Moved Next Door!” These fourteen stories are thought provoking, moving, and emotionally charged.  The beauty of Bannatyne’s work lies in her ability to fully grip the reader in the fifteen or so pages in which she has you wrapped in her story.  In that short time, readers let go of reality and fall victim to the captivating drama playing out in her words. 

The story “Waiting for Ivy” especially clung me, in a way that will likely stay with me forever.  In it, Marianne and Tim are waiting, this time they wait outside of an empty bank building among a throng of other parents praying the angels bring out their child. Tortured by hope they travel to wherever the next location is as they hold out for the possibility that the angels will bring out Ivy, who at twenty-nine weeks was stillborn.  Unable to move on, grasping to hope, “Waiting for Ivy” brings to light the desire, trauma, and wait for a baby that many couples dream of.

“Unaccustomed to Grace” begins as a collection of sadness, loss, death, dying, or missing.  Each is beautiful, if not for the tragedy and sadness, then for its thought-provoking emotion.  Not usually ending on a happy note, but feeling complete all the same, these stories are a perfect compilation.  The second half of which are full of vulnerability and again not quite hope, but not quite disparity either.

Unsurprisingly the awards, recognition, and love from both readers and judges alike have poured in for these various stories.  For the few pages of which each of these short stories has you, they hold on and make readers fall completely into the characters’ world, their fears, and their thoughts, until they are spit back out on the other side changed by the message within and the feelings they’ve provoked.

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5/5 ⭐ | Love Hard, Love Deep: A Second Chance, Case of Mistaken Identity, Romantic Suspense Romance (The Men of Throne Enterprises Book 1) by Lotchie Burton & Yolanda Barber (Editor)

Having read the prequel to Rick and Nylah’s story I felt right at home with author Lotchie Burton’s first book in The Men of Thorne Enterprises series. After leaving the Marines, Rick Thorne has taken his talents to the private sector.  With his best friends and loyal business partners right next to him he’s made a successful enterprise.  That is until the woman he’s spent the last three years getting over shows up in his office needing his help.

Nylah James has a lot of guilt and trauma surrounding the kidnapping of her twin sister when they were eight, having never seen or heard from her sister again after that fateful day. So, when she gets a playful text from a friend with a picture of a woman appearing to be her, at a place she’s never been, she feels her only option is to turn to Rick and reopen all the wounds and hurt unresolved over the last three years.

Transporting readers to Pike’s Market in Seattle, author Lotchie Burton draws you in.  From the strength and emotion of Rick Thorne to the regret and fear of Nylah James, the chemistry is palpable.  “Love Hard, Love Deep” does exactly that, showing readers the deep love these two have for one another despite the hard circumstances of their past and present.  

I LOVE the romantic suspense genre; the action and intrigue are there to engage and entertain while there remains a softer side blossoming through via the romance and relationships within.  Burton absolutely NAILS this as she keeps your heart racing from the twists and the lust emanating off several of the characters within.  Setting readers up for a fantastic rest of the series as we are introduced to several amusing personalities and strong women.

At the heart of “Love Hard, Love Deep” is a the very serious problem of human trafficking running rampant across the world, cocooned within this extraordinary story, showing the measures we’re willing to take for those we love. 

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5/5 ⭐ | Made to Be Broken (The Mystic Rampage Series Book 1) by Hugh Fritz

Everything we think we know about Genies is wrong! They’re real, but there is no bottle, three wishes is such an arbitrary number, and they actually live and walk amongst us, if they so choose.  They don’t have “masters” per se, but rather choose someone to grant wishes to, and only with their consent. 

Author Hugh Fritz has created an extraordinary read!  Set in Chicago, Darren became a member of the Slugs gang at a young age.  With a wife and child to care for though, he’s really backed away from gang activities.  Struggling to find work and refusing to partake in anything illegal he provides little to his family.  Hoping for his son to have a better life, Tyrell has made a great friend in Lucy as they spend afternoons at Soleil’s café, tucked at the end of a nature trail.

“Made to Be Broken” oscillates between three main characters.  Soleil, who owns a café and remains secluded in his simpler life.  Flarance, Soleil’s brother, who along with his sidekick Claire is determined to rid the world of bad guys, one by one, super charged weapons and all.  And Darren, who seeks a better future for his son Tyrell despite living in gang territory, at the mercy of its leader, Jordan.

As a way to earn cash and support his family, Darren often helps his friend Josh load antiques for deliveries.  However, in Josh’s absence one day he is persuaded to deliver an old desk.  Setting off in the rain, Darren’s van is struck by a distracted driver.  Responding to the scene is a power-hungry Officer Tymbir, who demands a search of the van and its contents.  Arresting Darren for the transport of drugs, Tyrell is visibly shaken as he learns of the news at Soleil’s café.  Seeing his closest friend upset Soleil lets Tyrell in on his biggest secret, igniting the trajectory of The Mystic Rampage Series.

The chain of events that spiral from Darren’s arrest, Soleil’s decisions, and Flarence’s use of free time make for an exciting read.  From enchantment, to spells, summoning, and the Council, Darren and Tyrell’s life will never be the same now that they know Soleil’s secret.   Fritz pens a fantastic finale, all the way down to the very last page, leaving readers thirsting for more!

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