Showing posts with label murder. Show all posts

Thursday, November 21, 2024

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

Friday, June 7, 2024

Satan Rides Your Daughter Review Spotlight

Black Tide Book Tours and HellBound Books are back with a new anthology fellow horror lovers! Are you ready for something fresh, disturbing, and sure to be riveting? Well, then dive into Satan Rides Your Daughter!

Welcome to the book tour! We hope you enjoy your stay.

Satan Rides Your Daughter is a dynamic collection of hellish stories that depict scenes that, in some cases, will be hard pressed to be removed from your brain. From stories about a strange wicker basket that a boy's father brings back from the war overseas, to an "innocuous" looking goat statue that sits in a garden...that must NEVER be moved, to a "Groundhog Day" style story of a Mad Max style road race/battle.

Let's cut to the chase shall we? There's sure to be a story in here for everyone. Each story is unique, and while not all will be someone's cup of blood, there will be sure to be one that draws you in and pushes you to learn more about the particular author who wrote that story.

Satan Rides Your Daughter is an interesting collection of horror stories. The first one that we read centered around a young boy. His father has returned from the war (recent times) and you immediately get the sense that the war broke this man. I mean, he comes home, strips it off at his "Welcome Home" party and immediately burns it in front of everyone. Yep, cue jaw-drop moment for us for sure!

Talk about...wow! But what is curious are the items that he brought back with him. A wicker basket, a pipe, and a couple other strange items. You can't help but wonder...is there something special about them? Well, the focus of the story will shift to the basket. So make sure you pay attention. You can bet that the boy, the main character of this story, will.

One of my favorite aspects of this story, is how the author draws me in. The basket seems innocuous enough, but the child...he senses what we do not. He senses the evil emanating from that basket and it when it becomes too much? He leaves the room. But fate is a fical thing and it won't be long before the boy hits a snag...that should end his life.

Warren, the boy, ends up with a close encounter that leaves him in-debted. What is going to happen from there? Well, you'll jus have to read to find out! LOL!

The Pit and the Basket is an interesting story for sure, and for us, one of the standouts for this anthology. Our only poke of dissent towards it is some of the actions that Warren takes later on. He strikes a deal, but then we don't really get to find out the aftermath. He must become a murderer, but one particular murder is hinted at being particularly gruesome. We wanted details. Unfortunately, all we get is a reaction from a side character, and nothing more. It's rather disappointing.

Another story that really stuck out for us, is The Goat. No, not the Greatest of All Times. No, it's actually about a goat. Sorta. Curious? Good. LOL! When we first started reading this story, we really didn't know what to make of it.

It starts off sounding like the typical, "child left home, doesn't want to return because of....insert whatever reason they chalk up." Well, that's part of the story, but wait for it, because there's more.

For us, the backstory that comes is truly fascinating. It is definitely going to give some "Drag Me to Hell" vibes and we loved it! Of course, if you're hoping to know EVERYTHING that happens with the character in this story? Well, you're going to be left waiting. Okay, more like the author will encourage you to use your imagination and conjure up what you believe happens next.

Some of the stories moving forward are hit and miss for us. Some just don't draw us in, others the pacing leaves something to be desired. But the deeper you in...it's like that's where the meat shows up. The good stuff people! Brace yourself to be sucked in and then to be the one sucking these stories dry as you devour them whole and dig deeper to find the marrow...(as in learn more about the authors who wrote them).

There are some deliciously hellish stories to be found in this anthology, so if you're a fan of horror be sure to grab this collection and dive in!

4 out of 5 stars

Thanks to BlackTide Book Tours and HellBound books for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what comes next!

Black Tide Book Tours

June 4-7

In our spine-chilling homage to the late, great Dennis Wheatley and the inimitable Hammer Horror films spawned from his works, HellBound Books presents twenty superlatively satanic stories guaranteed to have you fearing for your very soul?

A whole host of Hell's denizens skulk within these pages, waiting with growing impatience for brave of heart - or the relentlessly foolhardy - to make their otherworldly acquaintance, so please, do venture inside.If you dare?

Featuring hellish tales from: L. G. Merrick, Henry Myllylä, Alan Derosby, A.K. McCarthy, Brian James Lewis, C. C. Parker, Chisto Healy, Leo J. Winters, R.C. Mulhare, Henry Myllylä, J.B. Toner, Glen Damien Campbell, Nathan Blake, Gerald Dean Rice, Ricki Whatley, Carlton Herzog, Len M. Ruth, Vivian Kasley, Carson Demmans, Mark Towse, and Alexander Marais

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Publisher

HellBound Books are the veritable tour de force in the independent publishing world — for eight years and counting, they have published novels, novellas, and bestselling anthologies of exemplary horror, bizarro, and all things dark — the type of tales from exciting new authors guaranteed to keep you wide awake in the small hours and checking the inky-black, coagulating shadows beneath your bed just one last time…
They are incredibly proud to be champions of the newest, brightest upcoming authors as well as home to more established writers. Their objective is to bring to you — wonderful readers — the very best in the dark genres. They are proud to say all HellBound books titles are available in traditional-sized paperback and ebook, along with a few very special hard cover books, too.

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

Tuesday, April 2, 2024

The Faithful Dark Review Spotlight

A Gothic Fantasy for Fans of Hannah Whitten and Caitlin Starling. Congratulations on such a spectacular release Cate Baumer!

Looking for an engaging fantasy novel with gothic elements? Then you're not going to want to miss out on The Faithful Dark. Imagine being born without a soul, and being made to believe that you are "worthless" because of it. Well, that is Csilla's bit in life. But she could have more

This story starts with Csilla, but it alternates POV between her and a couple other characters. It's a nice touch as it helps to keep readers engaged in the story. Csilla is the main focus of the story as it mostly revolves around her, but she's not alone. There is also Ilan, you're introduced to him pretty quickly. He's a ruthless Inquisitor, but when he fails to bring a murderer to justice...he gets demoted. Looks like those rumors and whispers weren't nothing, huh Ilan? Oops! LOL!

Csilla simply wants to belong, but apparently some people in this book see fit to remind her of how she came to be in their custody. Harsh much? So, it hurts to see her hurt behind cruel and insensitive words. She just wants to belong, but her "soullessness" is apparently going to be exploited to take out someone that the Church deems a heretic.

Yes, there are some religious elements to this book but it doesn't take over the entire story. It pops up where needed and then is allowed to fade into the background. So, readers who aren't fans of "religious" books...calm down and just read this book. It's really good! Plus, it's a murder mystery people! Who doesn't like to read those?

The fantasy element showcases itself in small bouts of magic. It's interesting to see it utilized to expose secrets and when someone is lying. Plus, it is the very magic that is protecting the city, but with every murder (and there have been a LOT) the magic weakens. What is the purpose behind it? Well, that's a secret you'll have to find out for yourself! Intrigued? We sure were!

This is a truly interesting story that brings in a nice twist with the supposed heretic. Of course, these characters are working against the clock and the big question that will dog Csilla and you will be...when Csilla learns the truth...what will she do with it?

This is a fantastic fantasy novel that will wrap you up in it's pages and keep you coming back for more. Don't miss out on The Faithful Dark.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Cate Baumer, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book! We look forward to what comes next!

The Faithful Dark (The Brilliant Soul Duology Book 1)

Publication Date: April 2, 2024

Genre: Gothic Fantasy/ New Adult

🖤Gothic Atmosphere
🖤Dark Religious Lore
🖤Murder Mystery
🖤Hot Priest
🖤Slow Burn/Enemies to Lovers
🖤Queer Cast

In a holy city where sins and blessings can be revealed through consecrated touch, Csilla – born without a soul – is worthless to the Church that raised her. But when a series of murders corrodes the magic that keeps the city safe, the Church elders see a use for her flaw: she can assassinate their prime suspect, a heretic with divine heritage.

The heretic, however, makes a counter-offer; clear his name and catch the real killer, without becoming a target herself, and he’ll use his power to get her a soul. When their investigation catches the attention of Ilan, a ruthless Inquisitor demoted for his failure to solve the case, he reluctantly offers his help in order to earn back his position. He’ll bring in the murderer— and failing that, Csilla and the heretic. But as the death toll rises and their hunt pits them against the Faith, Csilla will find that salvation comes at the cost of everything she believes in.

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Cate Baumer (she/her) is a fantasy writer who lived half her life in Japan but currently resides in the heart of Appalachia, a setting that inspires the lush and haunted worlds of her work. When not writing, she can be found exploring the woods on horseback, putting her degree in art history to use at museums and antique shops, or searching for the perfect cup of coffee.

Cate Baumer

Tour organized by @rrbooktours

Friday, March 1, 2024

Umbrate Review Spotlight

Welcome one and all to my stop on the book tour in association with Black Phoenix Book Tours for A.D. Jones's Umbrate! Are you a fan of fantasy novels? How about thrillers? Well, author A.D. Jones has got you covered! Packed with twists, turns, and so much drama, this book is sure to keep you glued!

Something new this way comes. Wonder what it is? It’s a book called Umbrate. Umbrate is a fantasy thriller novel by A.D. Jones that will draw you in and keep you glued to the pages to the very end.

Author Jones welcomes readers to a city called Dalton. Dalton is where Detective Vanic Bradley lives and works. Vanic is dealing with some tough days ahead of him. Work is driving him hard, but when a particular sting doesn’t go as planned, it sets up a nasty situation that he will have to fight to survive. Not just for himself, but for his young son as well.

Umbrate is an intriguing novel that lures you in first with it’s unique cover. You’ll see a character glancing back over his shoulder that you can safely conclude to be Detective Vanic Bradley. Behind him, you’ll see a dark shadowy figure that appears menacing and dangerous. The cover gives readers that this may be a story of an entity out for revenge or something just as sinister.

Umbrate begins with a prologue that takes readers many centuries back in time. You get a sneak peek at a band of characters who end up fighting for their lives against creatures that seem to step out of the night itself. They are swift, dangerous, deadly, and difficult to take down – these creatures. But they are not invincible. They can be killed, but it’s a hard-fought battle, and there are no guarantees, especially in close quarters, that you’ll come out alive.

Now, fast forward to the present day and this is where Detective Vanic Bradley makes his appearance. Umbrate appears to just focus on an average everyday situation for Vanic. He wakes up, greets the day, the woman he’s in love with, and goes into the job. On his desk is a mysterious little envelope that holds within it something seemingly innocuous – tickets to a couple of upcoming events. Vanic doesn’t think much of it and for the most part...neither will you. Well, unless you’re like the few of us who are immediately suspicious of unexpected gifts. LOL! Especially when you’re a cop and as the character notes...could be viewed as a bribe.

As the story progresses you’re going to learn quite a few things about Vanic. He has some deep-seated issues towards certain citizens of Dalton. To be fair though – he’s not the only one, and this will be noted in a way that will leave readers a bit curious, and mildly confused. Don’t worry though, it will become clearer...just later on in the story. So, just keep any questions you may develop close at hand because the answers are there. You just have to wait for them.

The story takes an interesting twist that brings in the drama when a sting goes awry. While one perp is caught, another manages to escape. Yikes, right?! Honestly, it’s to be expected, but while the escapee makes a threat of revenge, it takes a minute for things to begin to fall into place. It doesn’t happen in the way that you would typically expect to see play out. We’re not complaining now mind you! We like that this is handled in such a unique fashion.

Wondering where the elves and dwarves are? They are there in the story! They’re sprinkled here and there, but the author also has a couple come in and take center stage by being helpers to our hero. You’re absolutely going to love the nod that author Jones does to one of the most epic fantasy series in history, the LOTR. It is both humorous and awesome at the same time.

The thriller aspect of this fantasy novel really ramps up when a murder is committed and “tastefully” highlighted with a nice little sign just for our detective. Cue panic amongst the masses. Fun times ahead ladies and gentlemen! Compound the situation with Vanic’s son is with him and the tension just got ratcheted up to the next level with ease. Be prepared to be kept on the edge of your seat as you wonder – “What is going to happen next?” “Who is going to be next?” “Where is the author going with this book?” “Is it possible to put thisbook down...even for a minute?” Here’s the easy answer to that last question...no. LOL! The rest? Well, you’ll have to grab a copy of Umbrate to find out for yourself.

Author Jones does a really good job of keeping a reader engaged in the storyline. You’re going to find yourself on the edge of your seat as the danger plays out on the page. While Vanic races against the odds and the clock to find a killer, he has no idea that the odds are trying to stack against him. Author Jones hides in the pages that there is more going on in this book than meets the eye. You are absolutely going to love it.

Now, as you know, this is a fantasy thriller. Emphasis on the fantasy elements, and emphasis on the thriller. A quick question we’re sure you’re having...will there be murder? Ya know, since this is a thriller? The simple answer – yes. Anything overly graphic on the page? Eh, that depends on you the reader. For us? We love a good dose of gore. LOL! So, there are some areas with finer detail, but that’s not the case with every scene depicted in this book.

Umbrate is an interesting story packed with some interesting twists. You are also going to get some flashbacks to Vanic’s youth that will help you better understand some of his personal viewpoints. Readers are definitely going to appreciate how author Jones goes on to develop Vanic’s character over the story.

Umbrate brings a lot to the reader and keeps you entertained, overall, from the first chapter all the way to the end. We wish we could say that the prologue ties into the story, but it unfortunately doesn’t. The centuries separate them, and if there was a connection meant to be made...it’s a miss.

For our first time reading a fantasy thriller, we have to say that overall… we were more than thrilled with this book and look forward to more like it in the future. For readers who love urban fantasy novels, this one is worth checking out. Enjoy a good thriller that will keep you page-turning? Then this one fits the bill just as well! Don’t miss out and grab a copy of Umbrate today!

Pros:

Engaging storyline
Unique fantasy creature
Nice variety of characters
Good evolution of main character
Page-turner
Twists and surprises

Cons

The prologue doesn’t tie into the rest of the story
Some terms aren’t explained until much later in the story

4.5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, A.D. Jones, and Black Phoenix Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. We look forward to what comes next!

Umbrate

by A.D Jones

Black Phoenix Book Tours

February 27-March 01

Welcome to Dalton
Home to Humans, Dwarves, Elves and the shadowy Umbral Populace.

Detective Vanic Bradley works hard to keep the peace, coming down hard on the criminal underbelly of the city.

After putting his life on the line multiple times in recent weeks, all he wanted was a day off work to spend time with his son, and re-evaluate his place in the world - but forces beyond his control have other ideas.

For reasons unknown, he will find himself in a race against time as two hundred innocent citizens become collateral damage in a murderous plot centred around him.

Umbrate is the debut Urban Fantasy crime thriller by A.D Jones, that will offer up his take on a fantasy setting that should be welcomed by many readers, regardless of their genre tastes.

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the Author

A.D Jones lives in the North of England; where he spends his time favouring books over people and can be found writing or devouring said books to review online. He loves Cola, Twin Peaks, cult movies and all things horror. He dislikes the movie ‘The Karate Kid’ with a passion that burns brighter than the sun.

You can find him on Instagram - the_evergrowing_library

https://www.instagram.com/the_evergrowing_library

Thursday, January 11, 2024

The Red Trilogy Review Spotlight

Welcome one! Welcome all to the book tour for The Red Trilogy with Black Tide Book Tours! Love fairy tale retellings with teeth and a twist? Then this is the book that you're not going to want to miss! Keep reading for more details and where you can grab a copy!

Who's afraid of the big bad wolf? Well, you might be after reading this trilogy. LOL! The Red Trilogy by Paul Kane is a gripping, jaw-dropping trilogy set that is going to have you coming back for more. Before you even get past the prologue of book one your jaw is going to be on the floor, eyes bugging out of your head, and your mind is going to absolutely be whirring. Brace yourself, because you've been warned! LOL!

Red kicks things off with a jaw-dropping prologue that is literally going to have you thinking "WTH did I just read?!" Of course, you will hardly be deterred from delving deeper into this story as you eagerly dig deeper to find out what happens next.

It would seem that Paul Kane is an expert at making things appear to be one thing instead of what they truly are, because this book is packed with them. Ready to meet the FMC? Well, Rachel is a young woman who helps care for people in their homes. She's good at her job, she's just really forgetful of things. That's going to be land her in some bad situations in this book - which you'll see. However, it won't be entirely her fault. When you're being hunted...well, simply doing anything in this case is going to land you in trouble. LOL!

This book and the entire series are a collection of insane page-turners. At first, you'll think, ...where does the "fairy tale tie in?" Wait for it, my friend! Wait. For. It!! We thought the same thing when we started reading this book, but it's coming! The wonderful thing of it is that it continues to be tied into the story into book two. You start getting flashbacks, memories, and so much more. So, think that you're going to be putting this book down for a minute? Taking a breather for a minute? Ha! Guess again! LOL!

The Red Trilogy is packed with horrific goodness and we absolutely ate it up. Yes, we're a horror fan, and all you have to say is "I have a horror book...wanna check it out?" And we will come running! LOL!

This dark and deliciously evil twist on Little Red Riding Hood is to die for. You'll be trying to devour this book before it devours you. So many excellent twists, tons of surprises, and drama that won't let you down. Readers who are horror fans? This one's for you!

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Paul Kane, and Black Tide Phoenix Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book! I look forward to what comes next!

Black Tide Phoenix Book Tours

January 9-12

“Kane does an incredible job.”
(Cemetery Dance on RED)

“Gleefully gruesome… RED is wonderfully written.”
(Hellnotes)

“Paul Kane is a first-rate storyteller, never failing to marry his insights into the world and its anguish with the pleasures of phrases eloquently turned.” (Clive Barker – Bestselling author of The Hellbound Heart, Mr B. Gone and The Scarlet Gospels)

“Kane is adept at putting flesh on the bones: all the more horrifying, my dear, when he strips it off again.”(Alison Littlewood – Bestselling author of A Cold Season, The Hidden People, The Crow Garden and The Other Lives of Miss Emily White as A.J. Elwood)

“Get ready to take this journey through a very modern fairy tale. It has teeth, but not just at the end. These days, the path itself is full of dangers.” (Tim Lebbon – Bestselling and award-winning author of The Silence, Eden and The Last Storm)

“RED is bloody brilliant – clever, classy and bound to chill you to the bone!” (Horror World)

Evil takes on many forms – something Rachael Daniels, an innocent care worker, is about to find out… personally.

Something is roaming the streets of the city where she lives, something monstrous with a taste for sweet, red, human blood.

Something that can be anything it wants to be.

Soon, Rachael learns the hard way that not even the friendliest faces can be trusted.

As she makes her way across that city one night on an errand of mercy, she quickly discovers the terrifying creature will definitely have no such consideration for her…

Together in one book for the very first time ever, the RED trilogy is a modern, urban reworking of a classic fairy tale, which puts the horror spin on an old favourite.

Blood RED picks up straight away after the events of RED, the first installment, while Deep RED throws you into a nightmarish future scenario. If you dare to open these pages, you’ll face a terrifying journey into the unknown – courtesy of award-winning and #1 bestselling author, Paul Kane (the sellout Hooded Man, Monsters, Sherlock Holmes and the Servants of Hell, & Before)

Universal link for the book on Amazon

About the author

Paul Kane is an award-winning (including the British Fantasy Society’s Legends of FantasyCon Award), bestselling writer and editor based in Derbyshire, UK.

He is a former Special Publications Editor of the British Fantasy Society, has served as co-chair for the UK arm of the Horror Writers Association, and was co-chair of ChillerCon UK 2022 in Scarborough.

Paul’s work has been optioned for film and television, and his zombie story Dead Time was turned into an episode of the Lionsgate/NBC TV series Fear Itself, adapted by Steve Niles (30 Days of Night) and directed by Darren Lynn Bousman (SAW II-IV and Spiral).

His non-fiction books include The Hellraiser Films and Their Legacy, Voices in the Dark and Shadow Writer – The Non-Fiction. Vol. 1: Reviews and Vol. 2: Articles and Essays, plus his genre journalism has appeared in the likes of SFX, Fangoria, Dreamwatch, Gorezone and Rue Morgue. He also co-wrote the afterword to the latest edition of Stephen King’s Night Shift collection. He has been a Guest at Alt. Fiction five times, was a Guest at the first SFX Weekender, at Thought Bubble in 2011, Derbyshire Literary Festival and Off the Shelf in 2012, Monster Mash and Event Horizon in 2013, Edge-Lit in 2014, HorrorCon, HorrorFest and Grimm Up North in 2015, The Dublin Ghost Story Festival and Sledge-Lit in 2016, IMATS Olympia and Celluloid Screams in 2017, Black Library Live (Warhammer 40k) and The UK Ghost Story Festival in 2019, delivered the keynote speech at the 2021 WordCrafter conference, as well as being a panellist at FantasyCon and the World Fantasy Convention, and a fiction judge at the Sci-Fi London Film Festival.

https://www.shadow-writer.co.uk/

https://twitter.com/PaulKaneShadow

https://www.instagram.com/paul.kane.376/

HellBound Books Publishing

https://hellboundbookspublishing.com

https://www.instagram.com/hellboundbooks/

https://twitter.com/HellBoundBooks

https://tiktok.com/@hellboundbooks

Monday, January 8, 2024

Moonflower Review Spotlight

Moonflower by Angela Townsend is an engaging coming-of-age fantasy novel that details the story of a young woman as she looks to find her place in this world. Unknown to her, she has a future calling that she will be called on to answer in due time.

For now, settle in and discover young Natasha’s story as it unfolds a page at a time.

Moonflower is a fantasy novel, but when you start reading this book, you won’t get that sense. Don’t let that dissuade you from continuing this story. There is a point in discovering Natasha’s story the way that the author has chosen to detail it. You’re going to find yourself engaged and drawn in from the beginning as Natasha, as a small child, experiences great loss. She’s a child in Russia in the beginning of the story, but the story quickly transitions her to living in Seattle, Washington. An unwanted child shuffled from one family and group home to another. Until one day, all of that changes.

You’re given a glimpse of hope for Natasha in this book as she finally seems to have found a place to call home. Of course, nothing is perfect and that is only highlighted too well. The author expertly encourages your empathy towards Natasha. She seems to have found a nice place, but that is only on the face value of appearances. This new home, this new path will only be “happy” for a brief time before reality sets in...and this reality...it’s not a pretty one.

This is a fantasy novel, but it takes time before the fantasy element begins to unfold. For a good portion of this story the author focuses on Natasha’s life with her new “foster” mother. You’re given a glimpse into Natasha’s day-to-day life with someone who took them into her home. But was it for the right reasons? Author Townsend emphasizes a particular ugly element concerning the system, and that is sometimes people do the “right” thing for the wrong reasons. Other authors have emphasized the same things in their books, but Townsend helps to really highlight this aspect without taking it down a dark path when involving the boyfriends that are in and out.

While the characters aren’t the most dazzling, the storyline is interesting enough to keep readers engaged in what is going on with the characters themselves. It’s when Bambi’s (Natasha’s “foster” mother) latest boyfriend, Chuck, makes an appearance that the story begins to pick up steam. How is that you ask? Well, for starters, he actually sticks around longer than the rest do. He seems to encourage a change in the household and brings a sense of brightness and hope.

It’s not long after that the fantasy element begins to come into play. Natasha begins to learn more about her past than she ever knew. Secrets are coming to light, but not without a cost...a severe cost that will drive her to make a choice – stay...or find the answers she’s been looking for concerning her family and what exactly happened.

Gradually the author works in the fantasy aspect of this book a little bit at a time. Natasha is an interesting character. The author works to show her as resilient in the face of the things she is made to face from a small child moving forward. She has a destiny that is calling to her, but only she wants to do is discover her past, and her family. What she finds is something more...a lot more.

Moonflower is a standalone novel. Everything pretty much gets wrapped up at the end of this book, but there is definitely the potential for more. Personally, I feel that this story could have been drawn out to give readers more. More drama, more romance, more danger...just more of everything. Does that mean that the story feels rushed? Initially, it doesn’t come off as rushed. For the majority of the story, the storyline flows smoothly. The closer the book gets to the ending though things begin to take on a sense of the author looking to wrap things up with a nice neat little bow. However, there is the potential for more in the future if the author so chooses. We could revisit Natasha and peek into her life and see what is going on. The question would be, how exactly would that play out? We have a couple of ideas, but of course, that is not up to us.

For now, we bid goodbye to young Natasha and wish her well in her future.

4.5 out of 5 stars

Book can be found on Amazon

Monday, December 11, 2023

Season for Murder Review Spotlight

Welcome to the book tour for, Season for Murder! Book 3 in the "A FitzMorris Family Mystery" series! Readers who adore cozy mystery novels with fun and engaging characters are not going to want to miss out on this delightful novel!

A Season for Murder by Anna A. Armstrong is sure to be a favorite of yours before you even reach the end of this novel. Readers who are new to this author will find delight in every page, and a nice dose of humor sprinkled throughout. A killer is on the loose, but there will be no "discovering" who they are and guessing games. No, the killer is known from the beginning, instead it's a game of guessing..."how long will they run free before they are finally brought to justice?"

A Season for Murder is the first book that this reader has read by author Armstrong, but by the time I was halfway through this book I knew that I was officially a new fan. LOL!

A Season for Murder is an absolutely delightful novel set in a small town in England. You're dropped into a cemetary where a killer is plotting murder. And not just one...no, the killer has already committed one, and she intends to commit more if it will get her to her goal. Funnily enough, the goal benefits her by proxy! She craves approval, and status, and this...this goal will get her exactly that...in a round-about way.

There is so much drama to be found in this book and it is absolutely delightful. There are close calls with near deaths of characters, romance is brewing between multiple couples, and holiday gatherings to prepare for. Tristan, Vivian's godson, is coming home with an unexpected companion. Look out! Because Vivian is not going to be pleased and Tristan unwittingly adds a new name to her already lengthy list of people to give the "boot." Poor Emily deserves better than Tristan's attempts at thwarting his godmother concerning him getting married.

Of course, hilarity ensues in more situations than not. Some are truly hilarious and will have you literally laughing out loud. One in particular is when Vivian is told by Emily, Tristan's "fake fiance" that she's allergic to shellfish. Vivian, absolutely outraged, demands that Emily eat them anyways! One might be "naive" enough to chalk it up to "shock" but it's honestly jaw-droppingly hilarious. Look out folks! Vivian is unhinged and dangerous! LOL!

The storyline is well-written and will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. This book can be read as a standalone, so readers who haven't read the previous book will find that this novel is easy to read and enjoy on it's own. There are hints dropped here and there of previous incidents in the other books, but it doesn't take away from the enjoyability of this novel.

The characters, overall, are enjoyable. The characters that the author wants you to like or love are easily likeable. Dee is an especially enjoyable character. She's bright, energetic, easy-going, and very considerate of others. She's definitely someone you would love to have in your life. That's for sure! LOL! The characters that the author wants readers to dislike is absolutely spot on. Vivian comes off as a quiet evil. Of course, blatant evil gets found out quicker, so she does an excellent job at keeping her evil acts under wraps and playing "innocent" for as long as possible. Another character readers will love to hate will be Victoria. Young, beautiful, member of an influential family, she's got a thing for Tristan, and wastes no time working to humiliate poor Emily.

This book is an absolute delight from beginning to end. You won't be able to get enough of these characters. The author gives readers a satisfying ending for the present circumstances, while still leaving us eager for more of Cotswold. I know that this reader will be eagerly begging for more future books and adventures with Dee FitzMorris and her friends and family!

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, Anna A. Armstrong, and Literally PR for the opportunity to read and review this book! I look forward to what comes next!

Click here for a free preview of the book!

https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B0CKZ9MPLQ&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_CMBRTFK5A1SJX3M87AFW

Be sure to check out the other stops on this tour!

Monday, October 16, 2023

Maelstrom of Darkness Review Spotlight

I don’t know about you, but I love a great action thriller. Especially when the villain is an evil, up-to-no-good research lab! Check out Maelstrom of Darkness by D.W. Whitlock.

Maelstrom of Darkness is an intriguing thriller by D.W. Whitlock and is the second book in his Alex Schofield thriller series. Alex Schofield, the main character, starts off this book finding himself in quite the bind, but then he’s given an offer that he can’t turn down. It’s not like he really has a choice. Someone wants their pound of flesh from him, but he has this one opportunity to “get out of jail free.” The mission? Visit the Nocturne and find out the secrets being kept there. It’s a complex job, but that’s why they’re calling him in to handle it.

Maelstrom of Darkness starts off slow, and will have you wondering where exactly the author is going in the first couple chapters. Hang in there, the good part is coming. The author is setting the stage for Schofield and why he gets the tap for this particular job. His past is catching up to him, and not in a positive way.

This book is told from the third person POV, and focuses on more than just Schofield. Schofield is the main focus, but he’s not the only one so be prepared for shifts from him to others so that you get the full scope of the storyline as it unfolds.

The deeper that Maelstrom of Darkness goes, the more intrigued you will be by the storyline. Someone is scoping out the Nocturne, and the question becomes – who? And why? When they learn that Schofield has been called in why does this seem to signal to ramp things up? Is there a history between them?

Then there is young Harlow. She’s part of the cleaning crew for the Nocturne. She was just looking for a way to help support her family (not that they deserve it), but she’s finding herself embroiled in something much much bigger. If she’s not careful she’ll find herself in more trouble than she ever could have bargained for. She’s not prepared for what’s coming, but secrets are coming to light.

Author Whitlock weaves together science with politics seamlessly in this book. You get a beautifully blended concoction of science, politics, money, and thriller all together that draws you and before you know it – you’re halfway through the book eagerly devouring it.

Schofield is an intriguing character. He just wants his life back. All he wants is to be free of all the drama, all the b.s. that has drawn him in and forced him to make hard choices. With the events unfolding all around him...his wish is looking more and more like a pipe dream. Nothing is what it seems. Secrets are all around him, and you just have to question – who has the most to gain and the most to lose?

The layers of intrigue and suspense in this book are thick! There are some predictable elements, but instead of taking away from the story, they add to it. It’s expected that there will be some predictable aspects to this story. It takes real talent though for them to not detract from the story and annoy the reader. The author is successful in this respect.

For readers looking for an intriguing thriller, this book will be a must-read. It has a mildly rocky start as readers will question the context or the point of the beginning, but once this book gains its footing… Well, it’s off to the races and you won’t want to put this book down. If you’re like this reader, you’ll be eager for more Alex Schofield books and even be looking to check out book one in this series.

5 out of 5 stars

Thank you to the author, D.W. Whitlock, and R&R Book Tours for the opportunity to read and review this book. I look forward to what comes next!

Maelstrom of Darkness: Alex Schofield Book 2 (Darkness Series)

Publication Date: August 28, 2023

Genre: Thriller/ Action/ Adventure

A shadowy research facility. Far beyond oversight. Discovery has a price.

The Nocturne. A high-tech biological research facility representing the life’s work of visionary entrepreneur Clarissa St. Claire. Located deep within international waters, the facility is unregulated. Beyond oversight. Above the law. Their goal is simple: push the boundaries of science without the hindrance of regulation. But as dark rumors grow about the true nature of the research being conducted there, a powerful threat grows on the horizon.

Alex Schofield owes a debt, one that he can repay, but for a price. To escape his past, Schofield must visit the facility and discover if the research on the Nocturne really is the search for scientific truth, or is hiding a much darker secret. A secret that could change the future of humanity forever.

In this dark adventure thriller, D.W. Whitlock explores the high-stakes world of biological research and the potential risks to the future of humankind.

Available on Amazon

About the Author

D.W. Whitlock has been a storyteller for most of his life, starting with short stories scribbled
in crayon, animation flip-books, stop-motion and later CG animation for television and video
games. While pursuing a career in animation, writing has always been the first step, from
short descriptions to detailed backstories. As a life-long reader and book lover, crafting
thriller novels felt like the natural evolution of those first forays into writing. When not writing,
D.W. enjoys gaming, spending time with his family and Triumph Motorcycles.

DW Whitlock