Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice by Laura M. Drake Review Spotlight

 Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice is the first book in author Laura M. Drake’s Whisper Hollow Mysteries series. Looking for a fun clean cozy mystery novel perfect for fall? Look no further than this novel.

Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice kicks things off with an eye-catching cover. It’s a beautiful scene laid out for the eye to devour. Top to bottom you have golden leaves clinging to tree branches while leaves that are variety of colors drift down. Below is a beautiful depiction of a block of Whisper Hollow that we will become very familiar with through this novel. You’ll see three storefronts with Whispering Pages, Harper’s store, and center stage.

On either side of Whispering Pages are two other storefronts. Neighbors of Harper’s that you’ll meet as the story unfolds. In the forefront is a black cat taking a nap on a book with a coffee drink sitting nearby on a pile of leaves. The cover gives a sense of coziness and invites readers to pick the book up and dive into what awaits inside.

Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice is a cozy mystery novel that takes readers to Whisper Hollow. Here is where we meet Harper. She’s looking to start over after a bad break-up from her now ex-fiance. Harper has taken over her deceased grandmother’s bookstore. A bookstore in a small town sounds rather ideal. However, Harper can’t escape drama and trouble...even here.

Mr. James owns the building that Whispering Pages is housed in. Mr. James? Well, he is making frequent stops at Whispering Pages. He’s not there for a book or just to make sure that business is good. Whether business is good or not, he wants Harper to know that he wants her out. Sounds like trouble brewing, right?

Well, trouble absolutely breaks out when Mr. James...winds up dead...in Whispering Pages. Harper quickly becomes suspect #1 thanks to her employee, Kyle. Dang it Kyle! LOL! Of course, we all know that Harper didn’t do it. Why would she? Yeah, she and Mr. James spoke the day before the murder. Yeah, he was pressuring her to break the lease. But that doesn’t mean that she did it! Turns out...there are more suspects waiting to be added to the pool.

As Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice unfolds author Drake introduces a variety of characters one at a time. Harper has a murder to solve but on top of that mystery? Is another mystery! The mystery of her Nana’s missing money! That particular mystery paired with the murder will have Harper making the rounds and analyzing suspects. Expect her to...get things wrong...a time or two.

Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice is an engaging cozy mystery that immediately draws you in. Set around the time for Halloween this story gives readers a small town feel with enough of a nod to the upcoming holiday to make sure you remember it’s there.

Harper is portrayed as a flawed character. She’s still hung up on her ex, Tate. She’s an introvert running a book store, and she’s sworn off dating. Cue up two handsome brothers who just so happen to work next door and whom her Nana took a liking to before she passed away. Sounds like an interesting recipe brewing, right?

Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice is a well-orchestrated whodunit cozy mystery. Author Drake keeps readers engaged in the storyline as Harper suspects and accuses a person or two in her quest to solve this case.

All Harper wants is to make her Nana’s bookshop successful and to find some peace. Finding out who the killer is isn’t going to be easy. Especially when Harper basically suspects almost every one of having done the deed. Some of her suspicions will be merited, evidence...is key...and that is one thing she’s lacking.

Readers who love “nerd” nods will absolutely love this book. The black cat on the cover? Yeah, she’s a “side” character of the story. But what readers will love will be the nod to a specific character from a famous movie. Harper is a “nerd” and readers will enjoy the random quotes and mentions linked to specific movies and books throughout. They definitely made us smile.

Not going to mince words here – Harper did get on our nerves a time or two. The whole situation with her ex? We didn’t get why she refused to just do the basic – block and delete his number. Why cling to that when he hurt her so badly? Don’t worry – you’re going to get some backstory on that drama-rama.

The big reveal of the killer...is okay. If you’re hoping for something big and dramatic, you’re going to find yourself disappointed. All in all though, it makes sense why there is a lack of drama.

As Murder with a Hint of Pumpkin Spice draws to a close it teases readers of what a potential future will be like in Whispering Hollow. Will the next book see romance in Harper’s future? Will Harper’s ex make an appearance despite her trying to cut him out of her life? It’ll be interesting for sure to see where things go from here.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Trick or Treat - A Halloween Review Spotlight

Trick or Treat is a thrilling erotic horror novel. Prepare yourself for lots of twisted and dark themes and elements. If gore, violence, death and kinky steamy sex aren’t your thing...then don’t read this book.

Trick or Treat by K.M. Rogness is sure to make many a reader pause and stop to check it out with a cover that has the five main characters depicted on the cover. Up near the top are four men with different colored masks covering their faces. Who are they? Well, you’ll have to read the book to find out. Below them with her hair swirling all around her is a young woman...their intended victim. But will she become something more before it’s all said and done?

Trick or Treat takes place around Halloween in Salem, MA. Scarlett and her four friends have just graduated college. It’s their celebration night and they intend to just go out, have a good time, get high, and just see where the night takes them. What they have no way of knowing is that this Halloween? Will be one that they will never forget...for as long as they live.

Trick or Treat is told from the first person POV of Scarlett’s primarily. She is the main character of this story and experiences every terrifying moment that unfolds. It all starts with an “accidental” death and progresses to some truly delicious extremes.

Scarlett won’t be the sole character that author Rogness focuses on. Remember the four masked men on the cover? Each of them will get the spotlight in this story as well. But watch out, these men? They’re some dangerous individuals and they take great pleasure in creating fear, tormenting their victims, and enjoying themselves to the fullest.

Trick or Treat starts out innocently enough. Five friends, hanging out, getting high in a cemetery, believing that the future is bright and ahead of them. Things turn foolish when a weapon gets pulled out and they start horsing around. What they have no way of knowing is that they’re also being watched by a group of dark and deadly predators.

Author Rogness loves shock value and it shows in this book. One minute Scarlett and her friends are having a good time, the next...one of her friends is dead and on the ground. Cue jaw-drop, especially with how the friend is killed. It seems almost impossible for it to happen the way that it does. You’ll probably have your suspicions, but will struggle to connect the dots.

Piece by piece, Trick or Treat is going to unfold into a dark and twisted story that will keep you page-turning to find out what happens next. Scarlett and her remaining friends, instead of reporting the accident, simply bury their friend there in the cemetery. We get it… to an extent. They’re all high, scared, and feel guilty. This really pushes the story into “I Know What You Did Last Summer” territory...except you’re getting a group of serial killers looking to have some fun.

Prepare yourself for some seriously steamy scenes in this book. These scenes are not just steamy, they are twisted and delicious. Some, for some readers, will be highly extreme, but you won’t be able to tell me that you didn’t get hot and bothered when you read them. One thing is for sure, no matter how dark and “disturbing” this book gets...you’re going to be hard pressed to put it down.

Trick or Treat takes place over the course of a year from one Halloween to the next. Does that mean that it all takes place on two different Halloweens? Come on now, where would the fun be in that? No, Trick or Treat literally unfolds over the course of a year plus.

This book is packed with twists and turns as the POV shifts between Scarlett and the four killers who are stalking her. Of course, they aren’t just “playing” games with Scarlett and her friends. No, there will be innocents taken along the way. Some of the POVs when it comes to the guys will focus on these “side” kills, but only a certain number.

Trick or Treat is a twisted game of cat and mouse, and when the “cat” catches the “mouse” well, they have more than a little fun playing with her. You can’t help wondering – “How is this all going to play out?” Will the guys do exactly what they say they will which is kill Scarlett when they’re done with her? Or will we get a bit of reverse Stockholm syndrome?

Our only real complaint concerning this story is that as bloodthirsty as the guys are we don’t get as much as one would expect from them. Trick or Treat focuses heavily on their obsession with Scarlett and her friends, but Scarlett especially. It would have been nice to read about the fall out of one of their more gruesome scenes, especially when this is when they take Scarlett. The story overall is packed with a good detail, but there are some areas that needed it and just don’t get the attention that could have made this book beyond perfect.

We hope that you like twisted endings, because that is exactly what you’re going to get with this book. Prepare for some surprise revelations that will make your jaw drop and have you thinking “Wow! That totally makes sense.” Trust us, you won’t be the only one thinking this. Trick or Treat comes to quite the epic conclusion. Granted you’re not getting anything definitive, so be prepared to use your imagination of how you think it will all end.

Trick or Treat is a real treat for readers who enjoy erotic horror. This twisted page-turner is one that you will not be putting down once you start reading. One thing is for sure – Trick or Treat brings the horror and the steamy that’s going to either have you needing a cold shower or some quality alone time. We know which direction we’re leaning. LOL!

Love horror? Read Trick or Treat. Love kinky steamy deliciousness? Read Trick or Treat. Looking for a delicious Halloween story to curl up with? Trick or Treat is the book for you. So don’t miss out and be sure to indulge.

The Godsblood Tragedy Review Spotlight

 The Godsblood Tragedy is a gripping fantasy novel with some sci-fi/steampunk elements that readers are not going to want to miss. The Godsblood Tragedy is Passage One of the Divine Godsqueen Coda and from page one you just know that this book and series is going to be epic.

The Godsblood Tragedy kicks things off with a cover that absolutely grabs the eye and holds your attention. A massive city dominates the cover of The Godsblood Tragedy. Everywhere you look you see lights, soaring towers, and tiers of the city on full display. Whispers of mist and clouds float all around. In the foreground, a woman stands with glowing tattoos on her left arm.

She’s standing facing this city of industry and full of danger. Soaring in the sky is dragon or vvyern. It flies unchallenged while small ships sail through the air, monitoring the populace. All of these elements come together to pique the interest of readers. To call to them to pick this book up and dive in to see what it’s all about.

The Godsblood Tragedy is the first book by Bill Adams in his Divine Godsqueen Coda. This epic fantasy novel blends together magic and technology into a unique story that will pull you in from the first chapter. Here you will meet a variety of characters who will be the focal of this book as each embarks on their own personal quests and vendettas.

The first character that you will encounter in The Godsblood Tragedy is Ashe. Of course, in this first chapter, she’s essentially nameless. She is an orphan looking to discover who she is and find her family. She goes from being called “Stray Cat” to Ashe once she lands in the desert city of Drenth. There she finds chaos is brewing and erupting. But this place will be her home, so she finds a place to call “home” and settles in.

As The Godsblood Tragedy gets underway, you “officially” meet Ashe. She’s in a bit of trouble, but she’s on a quest, so trouble tends to find you along the way. What she doesn’t expect to find is more questions than answers. Something happens on this “job” that she’s taken on and it rings the bell of trouble yet to come. Of course, the situation she’s in? It just keeps getting more complicated by the minute.

Author Adams shifts the story from Ashe to his next character in mind – Cadrianna. This character will absolutely spark readers' interest. It’s all in the eyes...same with Ashe. Same, but dynamically different. It will fuel your intrigue and have you digging deeper to learn more. But Cadrianna bears more uniqueness beyond her eyes...she carries a daemon blade. This blade is so unique it’s insanely cool. LOL! Bonded with a daemon it apparently also has a wicked sharp sense of humor and wit.

Trust us on this one...you’ll snort more than once when Stix is in a scene and has something snarky to say. Safe to say that Cadrianna isn’t always interesting in engaging with her blade. But, of course, author Adams has to make this blade something truly unique. Don’t worry, we’ll leave that tidbit for you readers to discover for yourselves.

Each chapter in The Godsblood Tragedy alternates between characters that you will be introduced to one at a time. One will be especially surprising when you learn about their past. Why do we say this? Because he’s supposed to be dead!!! Were we given a heads-up about this little tidbit of information? Honestly? Yes. Did our jaw still drop when we read the revelation? Absolutely. LOL!

The deeper readers go into The Godsblood Tragedy the more you will be drawn into the lives and fights of the main cast of characters. Each has their own agenda that they are moving towards. Lojen is one such fascinating character. A drakken without his horns he’s on a quest to reclaim what was stolen from him. A quest to reclaim tinged with a quest for revenge. Will he be able to balance the two against themselves?

Each chapter focuses on the specific character of that particular moment, but then ramping up the drama when their paths clash with the other characters. One thing you can expect from this book is a ton of drama that amplifies this book to the next level.

Wanting to know what the characters look like? Using your imagination only taking you so far? Well, you’re in luck, because author Adams gives readers images of the four main characters of this story. In the (physical) book author Adams includes character plates to give readers a better idea of what the characters look like.

The Godsblood Tragedy is an epic fantasy novel that will absolutely slam-dunk its way into your top favorite reads for 2024. Twists, dragons, drama, romance, secrets and so much more are tucked away in this novel’s pages. Once you start reading this book you’ll be hard-pressed to want to put it down. So, we recommend clearing your schedule, grabbing some snacks, and getting comfortable. This book is worth every second you will dedicate to it.

Hate cliffhangers? Well, this book ends on one, but it’s one that will have the hair on your head standing up with excitement and anticipation for where author Adams is taking this series next. We can’t wait to discover the rest of this story and where author Adams takes the characters from here!

5 out of 5 stars

The Godsblood Tragedy: Passage One of the Divine Godsqueen Coda

An orphan, without a trueborn name, returns to the city of her birth to uncover her past. Hounded by the servants of the Dark God and dying from the poisonous mist that covers the land, her path leads to one of the magical seals protecting the holy ruin of Eminence.

A father, murdered and reborn, aims to bring down the floating fortress hovering over his homeland. Burdened by loss, he’s willing to sacrifice his soul to free his city and get revenge for the destruction of his family.

A mother, captured and bonded to a daemon, kills in the name of the Dark God so she can free her tortured daughter. Relentless in her vengeance, she hunts the one person who could end her suffering: the man who would destroy her vile master.

A drake, the banished hatchling of a failed advisor, seeks his father’s stolen horns. Untested, he desires to right his father’s wrongs in the eyes of the gods and restore his family’s honor.

As all converge in the occupied desert city where the world’s fuel source is mined, one family’s bond will be tested. Old betrayals will resurface, anger and resentment will flourish, but one thing remains clear: blood rules all.

About the Author

When not writing, Bill is a product manager for a company that tests food using analytical chemistry and microbiology.

During his collegiate days at the turn of the century, he began to develop his passion for writing, especially within the epic fantasy genre about unlikely heroes. It was there, Bill began to formulate the story that would eventually become Ashe’s unwanted journey and The Divine Godsqueen Coda.

Aside from writing, Bill loves movies and reading, especially SFF B-movies. He likes to know all the useless trivia, like who played who, and what the stories were behind the curtain. He is a master at Scene It. Bill’s few other hobbies include soccer, a good whiskey, a slice of pizza, and growing a beard. It is the little things he enjoys most.

Bill currently lives in the greater Chicago, IL area with his wife and young son.

Thanks to the author, Bill Adams and Indie Book Tours for the opportunity to participate in this tour! We hope you enjoyed our stop! Be sure to grab your copy of this amazing book! We look forward to what comes next! 

 

Forgotten Ashes Review Spotlight

 Forgotten Ashes is the first book in the Iolite Academy series by Kathryn Covens, and readers who love upper YA fantasy romance novels will absolutely devour this book.

Forgotten Ashes draws readers in with a gorgeous cover. Swirling branches and briar dance around the cover of this book. Gates of iron stand proudly in the center of the cover, rising up through a sliver of the moon. Beneath, swirl licks of flames as they rise up around the gates while embers dance higher into the air. Forgotten Ashes has a truly stunning cover that grabs the eye and makes one curious as to the story that lies inside.

Forgotten Ashes is book one in the Iolite Academy series. Author Covens has imagined a world of shifters, demons, witches, and other creatures. Get ready to meet a young woman by the name of Briar. There is something truly unique about Briar, and only a select few know her secret. To know the truth about her? It’s a dangerous thing, and it will mean the end of Briar. Why? Because she’s not supposed to even be alive.

Things are shifting in Briar’s world, and it’s not a good thing. As the Beta to her pack’s Luna. She’s earned her place, but not everyone is taking it in stride. A certain Enforcer is holding onto a tight grudge, and it’s causing some ripples of trouble. Sooner rather than later these ripples will impact everything.

But first things first, yes? Briar is getting ready to head to the Iolite Academy where she is supposed to take her place as Luna. Her packmate, Grayson is already there as the Alpha. Things between them? Oy vey. They are not what they used to be. You’ll find out really fast what caused a shift between them.

Forgotten Ashes is a page-turner of a novel, so when do you start this book? Buckle up. Settle in. Make sure you have some drinks and snacks because you’re not going to want to put this book down once you start reading it.

Forgotten Ashes starts out outside of Iolite Academy, but once it shifts there that is where the drama really ramps up. The tension and drama between Briar and Grayson is everything. They are packmates, so you’d think that he would be supportive of her. Nope! This guy undermines her at every turn! It will drive you absolutely crazy! But it will also have you digging deeper into this book to find out what Briar will do.

Typically when authors say “feisty female” they mean a female character who thinks that being overly sassy, mouthy, and brash. Let’s be real...for this reader, we absolutely HATE those types of female MCs. They typically detract from the storyline and have us (we personally) rolling our eyes every time she opens her mouth. LOL! Briar, thankfully is a truly unique character in that she is balanced, fun, and has just enough strength and sass to give some spice to the story.

Author Covens...you did that. Pat yourself on the back. Briar is a fun character. She’s strong when she has to be, but she also has a softer side. She stands up for those who are under her protection. We love her sense of humor and how she chooses to handle various situations. Honestly, she does better than we would have when it comes to Grayson’s constant undermining.

There are moments where she finally reaches her limits and we are not ashamed to say...we cheered her on. LOL! Another character that readers are absolutely going to love is Kenna. Girlfriend is a stick of dynamite in the best way. We worried that she’d be that “mean girl” character, but the friendship that sparks up between her and Briar is everything.

Get ready to laugh quite a bit when Kenna is on the scene. She is so out of the box you’re going to be “Team Kenna and Briar” before you know it. It’s rather funny since Kenna is the one that Briar is going to have to fight to obtain the title of Luna at the Academy. The knee-jerk reaction is to want to “hate” the person Briar is going to have to go up against, but Kenna is one shifter you’re going to love.

The drama isn’t contained to just the Academy grounds though. Though of course, you’re going to find a fae (teacher) you’re going to want to smack into another world, and that’s on top of the bs going on with Grayson.

Grayson is one of the most infuriating characters in this book. Author Covens does this delicate dance with him though. One minute you want to smack him for being a jerk to our girl Briar, and then you see those sparks of romance trying to kick up. You don’t know whether you want the sparks to take hold and ignite, or if you want Briar to just give him the cold shoulder or pull a Ceelo Green and say “F--- You!” LOL!

Forgotten Ashes is told from a dual POV. The story focuses heavily on Briar (The Rose) and then a second character, who you get to guess about (The Moon). Initially, we thought that it was one character, but then...it didn’t make sense when certain details were laid out. Author Covens does this to keep us on our toes. We’re sure of it. LOL! But then it appears to shift more solidly into one character’s direction and settle there.

Are there new sparks of a potential future romance building? Can we hope? Dare we hope? Well, we’re going to hope because...well, what’s the harm in it, right? Right!?! LOL! Things are sounding like maybe, so we’re going to just cling to it, and sit tight for book two...yeah.

Things aren’t supposed to exist anymore and proving that they do. The secret that Briar is clinging to is becoming more and more in danger, and with that so is her life. The future is becoming more and more uncertain. With one exposure Briar’s life will soon be under threat.

Forgotten Ashes ends on a cliffhanger that will have you howling for book two. Trust us on this one...we’re ready to get down on our knees and beg author Covens for book two...because we need it now!!

Forgotten Ashes blends fantasy, small glimpses of romance, dynamic characters, intrigue, and more than a little suspense. Nothing is what it seems and this book is an absolute feast. Readers who enjoy all of the above...grab this book and dive in! You will not be disappointed.  

5 out of 5 stars

Pick up your copy today! 

Amazon US 

 

Hell's Beginning Review Spotlight

 

Welcome to my stop on Black Tide's Book Tour for Hell's Beginning by John T.M. Herres. Hell's Beginning is one of those spine chillers that will have you biting your tongue the next time you think about trying to get in the last word. You just never know...that person could be a killer you just barely escaped. 

 Hell’s Beginnings by John T.M. Herres is an 80s slasher film that meets the modern era with a supernatural twist. We hope you’re not squeamish because this book? Yeah, it’s bloody. You’re going to love it.

Hell’s Beginnings is a stand-alone horror novel by author John T.M. Herres. This book lures readers of horror in with a cover that is sure to pique many an interest. You’ll first notice an individual standing in the rain. He’s wearing a gray hoodie with the hood pulled to hide his face. His hands appear empty, but that doesn’t mean that you should underestimate this guy by any means. This character appears innocuous enough, but what lies deep within him makes him more than a force to be reckoned with.

Hell’s Beginning starts off in a rather dramatic fashion. Someone has already been taken captive, and she’s found herself in a bad way. You’re going to be thinking “Well, do we get to find out how she got to be in the predicament she’s in?” The answer? Of course, you will! What you’ll learn? That maybe...just maybe...she should have kept her mouth shut. But...alas, pride is a terrible sin...and this case? It seals her fate in the worst way possible.

Hell’s Beginning doesn’t take long to throw a lot of gore and horror in your face. You’re going to be taken along for the ride as this mysterious main character abducts Sharon and hauls her off to force her to experience unthinkable terrors. Of course, it wouldn’t be much of a story if we didn’t get some backstory on Sharon as well.

The first half of the story focuses heavily on this mysterious bad guy who is out to have his pound of flesh. You get the sense that there is a true darkness about him, but author Herres does an excellent job of keeping the true depths hidden in shadows. It’s not until later on in the story that you’re going to get a glimpse.

Readers who enjoy gorey horror are going to devour this book. The first half especially is heavy on the gore factor. The first half of Hell’s Beginning reads much like one would expect an 80s or even 90s slasher horror movie to play out.

In Hell’s Beginning, you’re getting the woman who unwittingly provokes a killer. You wonder exactly how it is all going to play out for her. Is it going to be a long drawn-out torture session? Or does author Herres have something more insidious in store for us readers? And Sharon, too, of course. Well, one thing is for sure and that is that heads are going to roll.

Hell’s Beginning brings the horror in spades as the chapters transition between the killer (still shrouded in mystery) and other characters who will soon find themselves trapped in his orbit. The killer in Hell’s Beginning is literally an equal-opportunity killer. Author Herres throws all the fresh meat into the grinder and turns a few chapters in this book into a literal free-for-all.

To be fair and honest with you, there is some content in this book that even we were taken aback by. Why and what was it? Well, it wasn’t the gore or the violence. No, it was when a young underage girl gets drawn into the mix and appears to be heading toward a sexual situation with a much older guy. Those particular scenes were flirting with disaster by dancing the line, but author Herres keeps things relatively above board...barely.

Are there other sexual situations in this book? Yes, but they all happen off-page. You’re given a hint that something is about to transpire, but you’ll have to use your imagination for those scenes.

Just when you think that Hell’s Beginning is going to be just a full-blown slasher story, author Herres says “Sit tight. There’s more.”

We know what you’re thinking...more? What more could there be? The body count is mounting, the final two are here. Where can the story go from here? Well, wait for it. Hell’s Beginning is going to take a twist that you’re not going to see coming, but it is absolutely going to glue you to the pages.

Hell’s Beginning starts out slasher style, but it morphs into something more that helps to better explain why the killer is an “equal opportunist” when it comes to those encroaching on his temporary lair.

The pace of Hell’s Beginning, even from the beginning, is pretty good. It moves at a decent pace and will keep readers engaged to find out who’s going to make it and who won’t. But when the big reveal comes along the storyline really begins to pick up the pace. It transitions into a race against the clock in more ways than one.

Also, author Herres begins to weave in more of a supernatural twist to help guide the characters in this story, because without that guidance? Well, things could have gotten a lot worse. For sure Hell’s Beginning is packed with twists, turns, surprises, and drama that you won’t see coming.

Pros:

• Engaging storyline
• Twisted
• Slasher movie vibes
• Interesting characters

Cons:

• The sexual angle with the underage girl

4.5 out of 5 stars

Black Tide Book Tours

August 6-9

SPINE-CHILLING ABDUCTION HORROR AT ITS VERY FINEST!

When a stranger arrives in Charity Falls, Utah, he has one intent: get a drink and some rest before hitting the road again. An altercation with a lush brings back dark memories, and the woman's final taunt tips him over the edge. He abducts and drags her off to an abandoned farm.

There, he introduces her to pain and suffering, on a journey into her darkest nightmares, and his bloodthirsty fantasy. However, the farm isn't as secluded as he had hoped, and he is forced to deal with several others who have wandered too close to his lair.

When just two innocents remain, only a battle of survival will decide who will walk away.But, the killer strikes again, and only one who has been close to the horrors will know what must be done. Someone must put an end to the reign of terror that has begun.

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Author

John T. M. Herres was born May 26, 1965, to a military family.

His father served in the Air Force, and the family moved around a great deal during John's younger years – which meant a constant change of circumstances.

John tries to use these experiences to add richness and realism to his writing.

Influenced by such authors as Robert E. Howard, Stephen King, Dean R. Koontz, and James Patterson, his genre of choice became action/fantasy-adventure populated by barbarians inspired by Conan, et al, set in rich, exotic landscapes, though he dabbles in other genres.

John's writing has emerged and matured into works with three-dimensional characters, action sequences that read like a movie scene with great visuals for the reader, and plot lines that pull the reader deep into both the action and the psyche of his heroes.

John has written several poems and is dabbling with a sci-fi story, as well as some short stories in the horror genre.

Having lived in the Great state of Texas a majority of his life, he currently resides in Mississippi. His works-in-progress include "Tales of The Barbarian" and "Challenge of The Velah" which he is hoping to have published at some point.

Recently, a few of his writings have been accepted for publication by J Ellington Ashton and HellBound Books.

He also has self-published a poetry book through Xlibris (warning), available on Amazon and other online retailers. On his Amazon Author page one will find links to several Anthologies that include some of his short stories.

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=John-T.-M.-Herres

Publisher's Social Media

https://hellboundbookspublishing.com/
https://twitter.com/HellBoundBooks
https://www.instagram.com/hellboundbooks

The Blood Prince Review Spotlight

 

 The Blood Prince is the first book in Ayla Marie’s YA fantasy series, and readers who enjoy gripping storylines with engaging characters are not going to want to miss out on this book.

The Blood Prince cover lures readers in with a simplistic cover. In the top right and bottom left corners draping across this book’s cover appears to be a length of red fabric. Tucked into the bottom of it appears to be a ring or some other piece of jewelry. In between these fabric pieces are gray and dried-out leaves. Are these symbols of things that we will find in the story? Guess we’ll have to see.

As The Blood Prince begins to unfold readers are immediately introduced to Leo as he’s on a job. He’s on the prowl to fulfill his latest hit. His name is known and feared by many, but not his true name – Leo. No, his “street name” was given to him because of his eyes “The Blood Prince.” Loving the fact that we get the tie-in to the title so quickly in the story.

He’s a successful killer, so you’d think that his skills are in high demand. Well, they are, but he’s kept on a leash. All he wants is to be able to live in peace with his siblings, but that’s not to be the case. Due to his secret, and the fact that his kind and others like him are “outlawed” by the king, he lives with the threat of death hanging over his head all the time.

If it weren’t for that one fact he’d probably be able to demand more pay for what he does. However, instead, he finds himself exploited and taken advantage of by the man who “hires” him as a mercenary/hitman. It’s heartbreaking to know the kind of squalor that he and his siblings are forced to live in.

With all of them living their lives as best that they can with only each other, things seem fine. Until they’re not. Author Marie is going to set up a scene with the siblings in town, and you are immediately going to know that something is about to go wrong. It doesn’t take long for things to go left (as we knew they would) and chaos erupts.

Their fragile peace? Shattered and destroyed forever. But The Blood Prince just keeps getting better. Because now is the time that secrets are coming to light. The truth about who Leo is coming out little by little, but the big reveals? Those are later on in the story.

The Blood Prince focuses heavily on Leo as he is the main character and focus of the story. But you get scenes that include his siblings, and when they find a new place...it shifts to his siblings. Cael is one of the other characters who will gain the spotlight when tragedy strikes the family. What is it exactly? Well, it’s something major to create a “forced” shift to another character in the story. Curious? LOL! Then grab this book!

Moving forward The Blood Prince does continue to shift POV between three characters. It’s nice to get some new ones, though I would have liked a few chapters with the younger sister of Elana’s. She would have brought some freshness to the story in the form of her kindness. However, as it is we get to see Elana evolve and develop. Unfortunately, we’ll also see the devolution of the relationship between the siblings as one appears to lose himself to “brainwashing.”

The Blood Prince is an engaging YA fantasy novel that gives readers just enough details to keep them engaged without taking it to the point of being too much for younger readers. There is violence in this story, but it’s not overdone or overly bloody. You get just enough to stimulate your imagination to piece together images of what is going on.

Readers are going to enjoy how realistic the characters are and how truly engaged in the story you will become with each turn of the page. The deeper the story goes the more intrigued you will become at why certain characters are treated better than others. There is history there, and some of it has been twisted, but the truth will win out. We get the backstory in certain places, and we get a bit of a history lesson as well. The more that is revealed in The Blood Prince, the more you’re going to become eager to discover what takes place in book two.

The Blood Prince is going to end on a cliffhanger. Readers who don’t like cliffhangers...it’s okay! LOL! It will just make sure that this book sticks with you so that you go grab book two! LOL!

The Blood Prince is a fantasy novel for readers who like fantasy novels, but lean more towards low fantasy. This is an engaging story, and you’ll look forward to all the twists, turns, revelations, and what comes next.

Pros:

• Page-turner
• Engaging
• Interesting characters
• Dynamic situations

Cons:

• None of merit

The Street Between the Pines Review Spotlight

 My fellow readers of horror. We are here today to present you quite a treat in connection with Black Tide Book Tours. When it’s Black Tide you just know that it’s going to be good. Welcome to the book tour for, The Street Between the Pines.  

 The Street Between the Pines is that book that will have your jaw on the floor, your eyes bugging out of your head, and your mind absolutely blown. Yes, The Street Between the Pines is that good.

The Street Between the Pines by J.J. Alo is a mind-blowingly good horror thriller that will keep you glued to the pages until the very end of this book. Brace yourself for a wild ride of thrills, danger, destruction, and more than one close call with death. Well, for Curtis at least. Not everyone in this story will be so fortunate.

The Street Between the Pines quickly grabs your attention with its cryptic cover decked out in night vision colors of green, white, and black. The first thing that is going to catch your eye is the image of a bat-faced creature. It appears to be looming over everything as it sits between two towering pine trees. Waiting for unsuspecting prey to come it’s way to be mercilessly devoured. Their last moments were filled with terror.

As your eyes travel downward through the trees you’ll next notice vehicles parked on either side of the road. Are these vehicles abandoned? Or are they simply parked there waiting for their owners? Some of whom may never return to drive them again. Perched on one vehicle on the left-hand side of the cover you’ll notice a cat. While walking the road you’ll see a man holding a shotgun. 

Grab your copy today: Amazon || GoodReads ||
BookBub ||  Barnes & Noble ||
Amazon AU || Amazon UK

Who is this man you ask? Well, you’ll have gained a clue from the blurb, but that’s just a single clue as to what awaits you deep inside these pages.

The Street Between the Pines is a thrilling horror novel packed with suspense, drama, and tons of twists. Your mind is going to want to go off in one direction concerning what begins to unfold from the prologue, but just be patient. The truth will be revealed and when it is...it will blow your mind!

The Street Between the Pines starts out innocently enough. An elderly man, Frank, is at home, waiting for his wife to return. The news is reporting a storm heading up to Connecticut and the Northeast. Frank is watching the game and has no idea that danger is making its way closer to his house. Strange things begin to take place. Little by little author Alo lures you in with each turn of the page. The anticipation builds and just when this wave is about to crest and break...BAM! Author Alo shifts the story to who will be the main focus of this story – Curtis.

You’re probably going to splutter a bit because you’re going to want to know what happens next, but you’re going to have to wait. It’s coming. Don’t worry. LOL! While The Street Between the Pines focuses mostly on Curtis, author Alo deviates here and there to other characters in the story. We’ll get to see some of the neighbors as they discover strange happenings in their neighborhood.

Stray cats aren’t an unusual phenomenon, but they become one when their numbers mysteriously increase. They’re seen leaving the scene of a crime. They are found lounging out in the middle of the road. Curtis even takes a moment to help one that gets injured during an explosion. Will this good deed come back to reward him at a later time? Guess you’ll have to discover that answer for yourself.

As you read this novel you’ll learn quite a bit about Curtis. Due to some past mistakes, life has gotten to be pretty hard for him. Not just him though, his wife and child as well. Money is tight, the job is demanding, he’s rarely home, and now they’ve been getting letters about “imminent domain.” Talk about a pressure cooker in a situation. Any more and things will probably explode…

Blood Lust Review Spotlight

 Happy release week and congrats to author A.B. Cynthe on the release of Blood Lust! The perfect thing to kick off Shark Week!

 Love a good horror novel with a healthy dose of steamy? Then look no further than Blood Lust by AB. Cynthe.

Blood Lust is a dark paranormal style horror novel that will keep readers coming back for more. Whether you’re coming back for more of the story or the author...does it really matter? LOL! Because at the end of the day, you’re going to be a fan of author Cynthe if you already aren’t.

Blood Lust is a standalone erotic horror story that details the crossing of paths of two killers. Delilah is a dangerous little flower looking to see who she can lure in. Author Cynthe presents her as an innocent young woman looking to have some fun on the beach. But Delilah has a particular agenda in mind, and it won’t be long before she puts it into play.

Of course, Delilah isn’t the only dangerous creature afoot in this story. We’re getting ourselves a delicious “shark daddy.” Handsome, hung, and vicious he’s a threat to any who dare come near what he claims as his. Regardless of the fact that he doesn’t get as much attention and focus as Delilah he brings a nice amount of drama to the story.

Blood Lust alternates POV between Delilah and Reef, but focuses mostly on Delilah since she’s the one who dwells on land. Compared to Reef, she probably also has the higher body count, too. Honestly, her chapters bring a nice amount of drama and tension to the story since most of it does take place on land. The human engagement pushes the story forward as we get shark attacks, and murders. It’s a nice combination since you never know which is going to happen next.

Blood Lust is a deliciously dark story. It’s a real page-turner that will keep you coming back for more and leave you with a little wicked smile at the end. In it’s own way, Blood Lust get a bloody little HEA.

5 out of 5 stars

                                                                            Blood Lust

Publication Date: July 22, 2024

Genre: Erotic Horror

🦈Dark Romance
🖤Erotica
🦈Jaws Retelling
🖤HORROR
🦈Odaxelagnia
🖤Primal Play
🦈Blood Play
🖤Serial Killers
🦈Obsession
🖤Summer Romance
🦈70's Aesthetic

The summer of ‘76 would forever be remembered as a season stained with crimson and fear.

The blistering sun brought waves of tourists to the peaceful town of Golden Coast, its sandy beaches beckoning with promises of a perfect summer. Beneath its idyllic allure and carefree crowds lurked two twisted killers, their murderous desires simmering just beneath the surface. While one left her signature kiss of death on her victims, the other stalked silently in the shadows by the sea. As fate would have it, their paths would soon collide, igniting a fiery and deadly dance that would consume the innocent town in a lustful haze of bloodshed and terror.

This is a dark romance/horror retelling of Jaws with serial killers. Please check triggers prior to reading.

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

Tenebrion Review Spotlight

Welcome one and all to the book tour for Tenebrion! Love a good horror story with gore, demons, and some seriously twisted elements? Then this is the book for you! Keep reading.

It's that time of year again. It's time for the annual Terrorfest competition, and everyone is piling up into the theater to see what the contestants thought up to try and win this year's contest. Some are excited, some are bored, and some are just ready for it all to be over with. But something dark overshadows this year's contest.

Death...

One of the teams didn't make it. Their final moments? Captured on film. It's evidence in an investigation, but that's not going to stop one of the hosts for Terrorfest from showing what he found on the film that he got. Horror is about to be unleashed...

Tenebrion is a horror novel by James H. Longmore. This story details a group of indie filmmakers looking to create a short film that could be their big breakout moment. Or are they? Could it be that someone in the group has something more in mind? 

Tenebrion has a slow start. This book is slow getting going, but once it gains steam and momentum you can expect a novel that will keep you glued to the pages to find out how not just how it all goes down, but what will happen to the characters you meet at the beginning. 

Page by page Tenebrion unfolds as the characters in this book go to an old abandoned school. This is a place of terrible tragedy. It's almost like a magnet for death and destruction. Countless lives have been lost and so, for Dave Priestley this is the place to come to for his epic film idea. 

Tenebrion goes for Blair Witch but in book form. You're getting the set up and the calm before the storm. But all is not as it seems. Author Longmore gives readers little glimpses into another's mind. This creature is plotting the mayhem that will befall these innocent lives. But first it will break them and break them down. 

The title ties into the story rather quickly which is really nice, and then it is tied even tighter to the storyline in multiple places to re-emphasize just who and what this story is about. It's absolutely fantastic. 

While this book has a slow start and takes time to find it's stride, it is a true page-turner. The author works just hard enough to keep your interest piqued. Once you're hooked though? Good luck putting this book down. You're going to be eagerly page-turning to find out what fresh horror awaits these characters. What will they be made to endure before the bloody end?

Tenebrion showcases how this author allowed his imagination to run absolutely wild. You think that you know where this story is going and then you get a surprise element or twist thrown at you. One thing is for sure and that is you're not going to be bored reading this book. 

You will be eagerly looking for more by this author and devouring everything in your path. Tenebrion is darkly delicious and a must read for readers who enjoy a tasty horror novel that will be sure to worm it's way deep into your mind. 

We dare you to read it in the dark...before you go to bed... 

Sweet dreams...if you do. LOL

5 out of 5 stars

Black Tide Book Tours

July 2-5

"The Devil is in the detail..."

Amateur filmmakers inadvertently invoke a demon when they break into an abandoned school to perform and film an authentic Black Mass for their entry into a short movie competition.

Dave Priestley and his crew film in Watsonville elementary school – the site of a horrific tragedy nine years before.

Tenebrion – the malevolent demon of darkness – makes preparations of its own within the dark recesses of Hell. The demon requires a specific set of circumstances and sacrifices to rend a fissure between the worlds and set free its brethren; it has manipulated humans for centuries to put things into place, and the moviemakers are the unfortunate, final pieces of its nefarious puzzle.

Priestley, ever the stickler for authenticity and detail, accidentally sets free the denizen of Hell.

While Priestley and his skeptical friends attempt to return Tenebrion to the pit of Hades, it hunts them all down – one by one – for inclusion in its hellish gateway.

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Author

James hails originally from Yorkshire, England having relocated with his family to Houston, Texas in 2010. He was honored to become a US citizen in 2022. He has an honors degree in Zoology and a background in sales, marketing, and business. James is an Affiliate Member of the Horror Writers Association.

An accomplished, published author (and publisher in his role as co-founder partner in HellBound Books Publishing LLC), and ghostwriter of popular fiction, James writes across an incredibly wide range of genres and subjects in novel, shorts story, and screenplay formats. To date, he has four novels, five novellas, and a whole slew of short stories published by various publishers (many can be found in his first collection, Blood and Kisses). He also runs and co-hosts the popular ppodcast/radio show (The New Panic Room), which is used to promote HellBound Books and indie authors, artists, audiobook narrators, and publishers of all genres.

James has been working full time as a freelance ghostwriter (and editor) for over a decade. He is quite the chameleon when it comes to writing: James is able to adapt to a wide range of styles and genres, is incredibly thorough in his research (he's renowned for his details, which bring stories leaping from the page!), extensive vocabulary, and he always keeps the client's "voice" when ghostwriting. Clients love him - especially with that Northern British accent (as an ex-pat, James is most proficient at writing in both UK and US styles – he also has clients in Australia who love his style!) and enthusiasm for every writing project he takes on.

https://www.jameslongmore.com
https://twitter.com/james_longmore
https://www.facebook.com/jameshlongmore1
https://mybook.to/jameshlongmore

Publisher's Social Media

https://hellboundbookspublishing.com/
https://twitter.com/HellBoundBooks
https://www.instagram.com/hellboundbooks