Friday, March 22, 2024

One Dead, Two to Go by Elena Hartwell Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received this book as a gift.

This is book one in the Eddie Shoes series. And who can resist a book with the opening line of: Call me Eddie Shoes.

Eddie Shoes is a private investigator in Bellingham, Washington, with her own practice. This is an entertaining tale of a case that involves Kendra Hallings and all the drama that goes with her. You will meet colorful characters like Chava, Eddie’s mom, who is a firecracker and basically inserts herself into Eddie’s life … and home, much to Eddie’s surprise.

You will meet Mr. Hallings, Chance Parker and his partner Kate (there’s a history between Chance and Eddie). You’ll also meet the not so upstanding Karl Turner. And we meet Eduardo, Eddie’s estranged father. I have never read/met such colorful characters. All of them together are quite entertaining.

The thing that I like about Eddie is her random thoughts in even the most serious of situations. She can be facing, literally, an extremely serious situation and make light of it with her humor. I found myself chuckling quite a bit while turning these pages. Eddie seems to be the sort of PI who takes on seemingly ‘simple’ cases, but they turn out to be much more than she anticipated. If you like a good chuckle, a well-paced read full of humor, with some romantic tension thrown in, pick this one up.

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/One-Dead-Eddie-Shoes-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0CGMRQF99/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=wYfau&content-id=amzn1.sym.cf86ec3a-68a6-43e9-8115-04171136930a&pf_rd_p=cf86ec3a-68a6-43e9-8115-04171136930a&pf_rd_r=131-3104865-4758931&pd_rd_wg=Ce3tt&pd_rd_r=0e90287a-bda0-4710-9a37-84d00d484616&ref_=aufs_ap_sc_dsk

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/one-dead-two-to-go-elena-hartwell/1122755079?ean=9781504089364

 

Find Ms. Hartwell:

Website: https://www.elenahartwell.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElenaTaylorAuthor

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/elena-hartwell

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3975429.Elena_Hartwell

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Elena_TaylorAut

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenataylorauthor/

 

Interested in your own book tour?

Partners in Crime: https://www.partnersincrimetours.net/

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Friday, March 15, 2024

Struck Dead by Andrea Kane Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received this book as a gift.

Forensic Instincts is an organization that delves into criminal investigations – like a PI company, sometimes skirting the law and definitely making the detectives in this story a bit irked at their antics, especially when it comes to not sharing information. This story centers around what happened to Mr. Hillington and why and is coupled with the underlying story of what really happened to Mr. Vicario. And, to keep things interesting, who is going after Casey.

The characters we meet are Casey and Hutch (Casey is the owner of FI, and Hutch is FBI). Ryan, Patrick, Claire (she is an intriguing character), Marc, Emma, and Yoda. The two police detectives, Lorraine and Burt, who have opposite personalities so they complement each other. Angela Case, Mr. Hillington’s lawyer. The rest of the Hillington family, the Vicario family, and the secret family.

Having never “met” these characters, I was still able to pick up on their different personality quirks. Each of these folks have different talents that they use throughout their investigations. I was intrigued with Claire as she is a claircognizant, meaning she gets visions. She adds an intriguing element/perspective to this tale. I was especially taken with Yoda. Yoda is basically a Siri, an Alexa, the internet with a voice request. Yoda has also apparently taken on a human aspect, or so it seems. I also enjoyed reading about all the backstories, even the minor ones, that make the characters all the more relatable.

This is book 10 in this series and I suspect there will be more. If you like police procedurals that run in a series, pick this one up. Short chapters, quick read, well-developed characters. I don’t think you have to read them in order to get a sense of the characters. I suspect FI will be taking on another investigation soon … irritating the two detectives even more on their next adventure, especially since they’re going to be adding a new team member. You’ll have to read the book to find out who that is.

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Struck-Dead-Andrea-Kane-ebook/dp/B0CJ7JDTBP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=C7BGFLPFW3RY&keywords=struck+dead+andrea+kane&qid=1705848832&sprefix=struck+dead%2Caps%2C292&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/struck-dead-andrea-kane/1143781976?ean=9781682320631

 

Find Ms. Kane:

Website: https://www.andreakane.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAndreaKane/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/andrea-kane

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/62844

Twitter: https://twitter.com/andrea_kane

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorandreakane

 

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Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Becoming Madam Secretary by Stephanie Dray New Release and Book Review


 

Happy Release Day - March 12, 2024!

She took on titans, battled generals, and changed the world as we know it…

New York Times 
bestselling author Stephanie Dray returns with a captivating and dramatic new novel about an American heroine Frances Perkins.

Raised on tales of her revolutionary ancestors, Frances Perkins arrives in New York City at the turn of the century, armed with her trusty parasol and an unyielding determination to make a difference.

When she’s not working with children in the crowded tenements in Hell’s Kitchen, Frances throws herself into the social scene in Greenwich Village, befriending an eclectic group of politicians, artists, and activists, including the millionaire socialite Mary Harriman Rumsey, the flirtatious budding author Sinclair Lewis, and the brilliant but troubled reformer Paul Wilson, with whom she falls deeply in love.

But when Frances meets a young lawyer named Franklin Delano Roosevelt at a tea dance, sparks fly in all the wrong directions. She thinks he’s a rich, arrogant dilettante who gets by on a handsome face and a famous name. He thinks she’s a priggish bluestocking and insufferable do-gooder. Neither knows it yet, but over the next twenty years, they will form a historic partnership that will carry them both to the White House.

Frances is destined to rise in a political world dominated by men, facing down the Great Depression as FDR’s most trusted lieutenant—even as she struggles to balance the demands of a public career with marriage and motherhood. And when vicious political attacks mount and personal tragedies threaten to derail her ambitions, she must decide what she’s willing to do—and what she’s willing to sacrifice—to save a nation.


My Review:

I am not a history buff by any means. And, I usually do not like reading in the historical genre. To me, a historical read needs to be interesting to hold my attention. I don’t like books that are filled with so many facts and figures that my mind spins.

I found myself to be quite invested in the tale of Miss Frances Perkins whom I have never heard of until now. This book documents her personal life as well as her life in the political world, which was quite unheard of back in the early 1900s. This book really sets a tone for the time period and brings to life Miss Perkins and her struggles.

To say I really enjoyed the reading of this tale would be an understatement. I was able to get a ‘real feel’ of Miss Perkins and her personality, her struggles with the political world and her home life. I liked the fact that her husband’s illness was handled delicately and with discretion as was appropriate to the time. I even enjoyed reading about her reactions when she would be offered a job because, again, it was unheard of for a woman to be in the political realm in the time period.

We have Miss Perkins to thank for a lot of things that women are entitled to in this day and age. Read it … you won’t be disappointed.

Monday, March 11, 2024

Kaleidoscope of Secrets by Sandy Clements Book Review


 

Do you like stories with strong women characters? This one has two very strong women in Mia and Nikki.

Do you like stories that discover a long-lost buried family secret? This one has that covered!

What about a backstory of a childhood friendship that lasted over the years? Covered.

And … what about just a bit of back-and-forth romance? That’s here too.

How about a couple of bad guys? Check that one off as well.

I didn’t realize how much I appreciated a strong female main character or two. This is something that appealed to me as I was turning the pages. I like Mia’s character as she comes across as meek and mild, maybe even a bit standoffish, until she comes face-to-face with Nikki.

Nikki, the other main female character, is on the opposite end of the spectrum to Mia. I think this provides an excellent contrast in these two characters.

There are a whole host of characters that make this a colorful read. Their personalities really pop off the pages. Join Mia as she goes through a kaleidoscope of emotions as she uncovers a couple of long-lost, deeply buried secrets that she was not expecting. And the twist? That was totally unexpected.

Friday, March 1, 2024

One Wrong Move by Dani Pettrey Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received this book as a gift.

This was my first introduction to this author. The basis of this story is twofold. There is the story of Christian and Andi trying to figure out who was behind two heists that this tale centers around. And, there is also the intertwining story of Hunter (who happens to be Andi’s best friend) and Deckard (who happens to be Christian’s brother) who are trying to unravel what really happened leading up to Andi’s banishment from the FBI.

The other entertaining characters in this tale include Riley who is Christian and Deckard’s sister. Greyson, who used to own the PI business that Deckard bought from him. I enjoyed reading the banter that happens between Riley and Greyson, made me think that there was something more to their relationship. They are quite an entertaining pair.

I also enjoyed reading the small yet significant underlying backstories which included the siblings’ stories of their less-than-desirable upbringing and how they got to where they are as adults. There is Andi’s story with the FBI and her failed relationships. And Hunter … we all need a best friend like Hunter, one who stands by our side no matter what. I liked and appreciated the fact that Christian and Deckard were able to show their vulnerability which is rare for male characters. I think it added just a little more realism to this tale. As well, each of these characters call upon their faith to get them through the worst of times and the best of times. There are also some romantic notions thrown in just to keep things interesting. I would not hesitate to read this author’s work again. I enjoyed her writing style and how she dropped tidbits of information throughout these pages. And, we can’t forget the bad guy and how he ties into all these backstories.

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/One-Wrong-Move-Investigator-Thriller/dp/0764238485/ref=sr_1_1?crid=P2UVDLKF2CHE&keywords=one+wrong+move+dani+pettrey&qid=1705848543&sprefix=one+wrong+move%2Caps%2C334&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/one-wrong-move-dani-pettrey/1143717375?ean=9780764238482

 

Find Ms. Pettrey:

Website: https://www.danipettrey.com/#owm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DaniPettrey#owm

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/dani-pettrey#owm

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5275947.Dani_Pettrey#owm

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authordanipettrey/

 

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Monday, February 26, 2024

Voices in Blood by G.B. Reese Book Review


 

I received this book as a gift.

A rundown of the characters:

John – the dad. He’s not a nice man and what he did to his children, or at least tried to do, while it made for some interesting reading, it’s not for the faint of heart.

JP – the mild-mannered oldest son. JP is full of conflict between his dad’s beliefs and his own.

Jack – the middle child. He’s the quiet one. The one who gets overlooked.

Julien – the third child, the one who was molded.

Sophia – the mom. Sophia has her own story to tell.

The Panel – the voices.

Cap – the neighbor. We all need someone like Cap in our life. Cap is what I would call a beacon, of sorts, for JP.

This book is dark, probably one of the darkest I’ve ever read, and yet the bizarre family dynamics kept me turning the pages. I have to put trigger warnings on this one – there is a lot of abuse, mental illness, and quite a gruesome scene. If you are squeamish be prepared. In the end, I am left wondering what the final chapter of this family’s story will be.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

The Day I Died by Lori Rader-Day Book Review


 

The premise of this tale is Aiden Ransey gone missing. It turned out to be quite a bit more than I was expecting. This is also the tale of Anna Winger running from her past. There were hints that were continually scattered through the first part of this book which left me wondering what happened in Anna’s past to make her run. I kept wanting to know the answer.

Anna also has a son, Joshua. I was intrigued with Anna and Joshua’s story in that Anna didn’t seem to know how to reach Josh, after all he was just beginning his teenage years. Enter a homework assignment about a family tree. Enter Anna not knowing how to answer his questions.

Also intriguing to me was the fact that Anna didn’t want anyone looking too closely at her for fear of them finding out about her past which would make her want to run again.

This is also a story of hope and forgiveness, a story of family, a story of finally being able to feel safe. After a couple of false starts, I’m glad I was finally able to sit down and give this one a read.

Tuesday, February 20, 2024

8 Down by Kimberley Woodhouse New Release and Book Review


 

Help me congratulate Kimberley Woodhouse on her new release! Here’s the blurb -

8 more lives at stake.

Investigator Carrie Kintz is new blood with the Alaska Bureau of Investigation in Anchorage. But with a serial killer on the loose, there's no easing into the job. It's sink or swim. The only clues to help law enforcement stop this madman are the taunts he drops into crossword puzzles across the country--always in the same 8 DOWN position.

Carrie is desperate to prove her worth to the force and the community by catching the killer. But when she discovers signs that these deaths are just the tip of the iceberg in a frighteningly elaborate cyberattack, it's time to admit she needs help.


Calling in security specialist Scott Patteson for his expertise seems like the right move--until Carrie realizes that he may be a dangerous distraction for her heart. With her faith fading in the face of horror and uncertainty and her career in danger of ending, this is no time for flirtation.

But with a killer who is determined to prove that he's smarter than everyone else, it may be impossible to fight both the madman and their feelings for each other . . .




 

I received this book as a gift.

Alaskan Cyber Hunters book two. If you are into books about cybercrimes intermixed with a tiny bit of politics, the ABI not wanting to relinquish their case to the FBI, a wee bit of romance intermixed with some faith, this series is for you! I would recommend this series be read in order to get a feel for the characters, as well as to understand mentions of 26 Below throughout these pages and its aftereffects.

Carrie finds herself navigating her way through being the lead investigator on her first big case – something she thought she wasn’t ready for, but she had an incredible team on her side. She had to deal with her feelings of inadequacy of doing the job and doing it well enough to catch the bad guy; she had to deal with a tragedy none of them were expecting; she also found herself dealing with her feelings for Scott. There are a whole host of characters intermixed with this particular case that help round out this story.

I found this tale of intrigue to be quite fast paced, as well as a bit intense at times with Carrie Kintz and her team’s efforts to track down the bad guy. There is no secret who the bad guy is in this tale. The trick to this read was trying to figure out who the bad guy’s minions were and the roles they played. I thought I had it figured out by the very subtle clues I thought I was picking up; I was incorrect in my presumptions.


Tuesday, February 6, 2024

One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan New Release


 

Help me congratulate Hank on her newest release!

Here’s the blurb:

A heart-racing new psychological thriller from USA Today bestselling and multiple award-winning author, Hank Phillippi Ryan.

Words have the power to change lives, and no one knows that better than crisis management expert Arden Ward. But she's in big trouble—she's accused of having an affair with a client. It's not true! She would never do such a thing! But she gets the blame—and now she's about to be fired.

Arden is granted two weeks to save her career and her reputation. And then she meets Cordelia Bannister.

Cordelia needs help for her husband Ned, a successful Boston real estate mogul. Though he was recently acquitted in a fatal drunk driving accident, his reputation has been ruined, and the fallout is devastating not only to the Bannisters' lives, but the lives of their two young children.

Arden devotes her final days on the job to helping this shattered family, but soon, revelations about what really happened the night of the accident begin to emerge. And then—another car crash throws Ned back into the spotlight.

This case is Arden’s last chance to protect her own future and clear her name—and the Bannister kids may be in danger! But the more she tries to untangle the truth, the more one disturbing question haunts her—what if she’s protecting a killer?

Everyone believes that words can never hurt them, but Arden knows the reality. Sometimes one wrong word can kill.

Friday, February 2, 2024

Cold Threat by Nancy Mehl Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are tangling with another case in Cold Threat, which is an absolutely perfect title for this tale that involves snowy weather. The premise of this tale is Tony and River going to help Tony’s dad solve a case that has been on his mind for the past twenty-four years … the one that he never solved, at least to his liking, the one that stayed with him.

There are several things I like about this series, not to mention the writing style. I really like the characters, their personalities really start to come through even in the first book, Cold Pursuit. In book two, they have remained consistent which is something I appreciate in a series. River is still struggling to come to terms with her mom’s illness and their relationship. She is also still trying to figure out what to do with her feelings for Tony, not to mention the struggle she has with her faith. Coupled with her relationship with her brother and trying to forgive her father.

Tony remains River’s partner in their PI business, but he also has to confront his feelings for River. Taking River with him to help his dad not only introduces River to his mom, dad, and sister, Aimee, but also, I think, makes him realize what River really does mean to him. Tony’s mom and sister also have to face the truth when it comes to River; it makes for a good inner story within the main story.

I enjoyed the fact that the author pulled in snippets from what happened in book one, which I feel is important in order to understand some of the thoughts that River and Tony have, and it enhances their relatability in that they just didn’t let their last case go, so to speak, it was too traumatic for both of them for different reasons.

If you like a good police procedural series, I highly recommend this one. I expect quite a few loose ends will be tied up in book three and I am hopeful to get my hands on a copy to see what River and Tony get up to next.

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Threat-Profiler-Thriller-Romantic/dp/0764240463/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2ZYIQHQCJNQF2&keywords=nancy+mehl+books&qid=1705074663&sprefix=nancy+mehl%2Caps%2C192&sr=8-5

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cold-threat-nancy-mehl/1143717361?ean=9780764240461

 

Find Ms. Mehl:

Website: https://nancymehl.com/#CP

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Nancy-Mehl-Fan-Page/100063707132606/#cp

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nancy-mehl#cp

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/630286.Nancy_Mehl#cp

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NancyMehl1#CP

 

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Thursday, February 1, 2024

The Traitors by C.A. Lynch New Release and Review


 

Help me congratulate Carissa on her newest release! Here's the blurb - 

The brand new locked-room thriller for fans of Ruth Ware and Freida McFadden.

You are cordially invited to the Beechwood Castle for a night you’ll never forget…

Six people find a thick cream envelope on their doorstep. Inside is an invitation to spend 24 hours in a crumbling manor house and be in with the chance to win a portion of one million dollars. The catch: Beechwood Castle was the site of one of the most horrific murders in modern history.

The smell of blood, decay and death still hangs heavy in the air.

Six people walk into the house. One of them is an imposter, all of them are traitors, which of them will survive the night?

 



I had an opportunity to read an early copy of this book and oh my goodness. I knew I was in ‘trouble’ when I started this one at lunch one day and decided to put it aside until I could devote more than 30 minutes to this read. And when I did, I devoured this one because I wanted to know what happened, who did it, and the why behind it all.

The premise of this tale is some folks from Rock Hill suddenly received mysterious invitations to spend the night at Beechwood Castle. The prize? One-sixth of a million dollars. Who could resist, right?

Staci – a true crime podcaster. Jan her co-host, incorporating makeup into said podcast.

Lolly – the only one who survived the past horror that happened so long ago at Beechwood Castle.

Cornelius – an architect by trade, but also a failed marriage in his future.

Penelope – an author who folks are beginning to ignore. Her husband, Robert.

Bonnie – out of prison for a while now, trying to stay on a clean path.

Rad – one of the police officers who was called to the crime scene all those many years ago when he was a rookie.

The Hostess, Mary Beth Penner – she was just hired for the job and had no clue what was going on.

This book is one of the darkest and creepiest that this author has written. Beechwood Castle reminded me of another of her books, The Secrets of Cedar Farm, with its hidden passages. I

Each of these characters are tied together not only because of their invitations, but because of their flawed natures. The person who brought them together knew that they would go to great lengths to win the additional prize. Each of these folks also have some deeper secrets than the ones on the surface. If you are looking for a creepy, dark read, I would highly recommend you give this one a shot. And the whodunit? That was a shock and not one I was expecting. I kept thinking I had it figured out and I was wrong every time.


A Moth to Flame by Joe Clifford New Release


 

Help me congratulate Joe Clifford on his newest release! Here’s the blurb:

Spanning twenty-five years, A MOTH TO FLAME tells the story of two sisters, Lydia—and Jessica Barrett, who is found, dead, at the bottom of a ravine in 1991 after attending a protest in a support of a recently fired, popular teacher.

Twenty-five years later, Lydia, who suffers from nyctophobia (a fear of the night), is a coroner’s investigator on the graveyard shift in Los Angeles. A promotion awaits. Her mentor Maureen Gearon is grooming Lydia to take over as county medical examiner. If Lydia can conquer her fear of the dark.

Early one morning Lydia encounters a woman, whose neck has been broken like her sister’s. Checking a missed voicemail, Lydia hears a message from the dead woman who claims to have information about Jess.

While researching her sister’s accident, Lydia stumbles upon a true-crime YouTube channel, Night Shade, hosted by a former classmate, Shane Ellet, who maintains Jess’ death wasn’t an accident; it was murder. Caught in a web of lies and deception are Cam Rawls, Jess’ ex-boyfriend and current hometown sheriff; Brad Pearce, the handsome, young English teacher who was sexually involved with students; and a recovering addict, Mark Burns, employed by Richard Fontaine, Mom Gloria’s new boyfriend and general contractor. As Lydia grows closer to the truth, the Sand Wildfire breaks out, encroaching, and threatening to burn everything to the ground. Will Lydia learn the truth in time?

In the modern vein of authors such as Thomas Harris, Jeffrey Deaver, Paula Hawkins, and Tana French, A MOTH TO FLAME tells the story of a woman in a man’s world, set against the illusion of perfect suburban lives that are anything but, populated with the scariest monsters of all: the ones right in front of our faces that we cannot see through the dark.


Friday, January 26, 2024

Broadcast Blues by R.G. Belsky Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

‘It’s News To Me’ is the book that introduced me to the main character, Clare Carlson, so when the opportunity presented itself to read ‘Broadcast Blues’ I took it.

This is Wendy Kyle’s story and what happened to her. Of course, Clare gets a hold of this story and, because she has such dogged determination, she keeps pursuing it until she gets to the truth. This is one of the reasons I like Clare’s character. She is relentless in her pursuit of the truth. She will not stop until she gets to the answer, even to her own detriment.

I also like Clare because she has personal issues to deal with. Susan Endicott, Clare’s boss, is still around and they still don’t get along. Clare still calls upon her three ex-husbands from time to time. Lucy (Linda now), Clare’s daughter, and she are trying to build a relationship. Clare is a character who has a very dry sense of humor, but her response to situations is spot on, making her a very relatable and very consistent character.

This may be a series, but each one can be read as a standalone and the reader will have a good ‘feel’ for the characters. One of the hardest things to do, I think, in a series is maintaining character consistency through their voices. This is one series that has nailed that perfectly. I look forward to more of Clare’s adventures.

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Broadcast-Blues-Clare-Carlson-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0C1P6CP9M/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1GAE36QY4YS23&keywords=broadcast+blues+r+g+belsky&qid=1705074849&sprefix=broadcast+blues%2Caps%2C304&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/broadcast-blues-r-g-belsky/1143315394?ean=9781608095322

 

Find Mr. Belsky:

Website: https://www.rgbelsky.com/#news

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RGBelsky#news

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/r-g-belsky#news

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7382095.R_G_Belsky#new

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DickBel#news

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dickbelsky/

 

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Thursday, January 11, 2024

Hunted by Proxy by Manning Wolfe New Release


 

Help me congratulate Manning Wolfe on her newest book release! Here’s the blurb –

Can attorney Quinton Bell hang on to his new life, as he hides in plain sight, in this lawyer-on-the-run suspense thriller?


Hunted By Proxy takes readers on a heart-pounding ride through the life of a criminal defense attorney whose world was wiped out by the very client he tried to save.

Quinton establishes a new life and law practice in Houston and thinks he’s outrun the dangerous adversaries who chased him there. As he begins to relax, he receives a cryptic message that shatters his illusion of safety. He’s threatened by a diabolical and relentless pursuer. But who?

Quinton is trapped in a quagmire of deception, betrayal, and unlikely alliances. With each passing moment, the noose tightens, and he must draw on every ounce of wit to outsmart those who still want him exposed, or worse, dead.

Will Quinton find a way out, or will he forever be a target in a deadly game of cat and mouse?

Hunted By Proxy is the second gripping installment in the edgy Proxy Legal Thriller Series. If you like memorable characters, smart gritty action, and jaw-dropping twists, then you’ll love Manning Wolfe’s fast-paced page-turner. Best read in order.


Monday, January 8, 2024

Third Time's The Charm by Michale Mohr Book Review


 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

This tale has some interesting characters whose lives collide in ways they didn’t expect.

Melinda – a physical therapist turned amateur investigator. Melinda is also dating Tom who is a police detective. Melinda’s antics at trying to step in and help, especially when her son’s friend is involved, makes Tom shake his head, but also makes him worry for Melinda. Tom’s boss, Lansing, also shakes his head at her antics, but they both realize that she uncovers details that they may have missed. Melinda sometimes finds herself in situations and is unaware of how to get herself out of them because, after all, she’s not a detective.

Dominic – Mr. Gallo is the thief in this tale. However, he’s a thief of a different kind. He has a conscience. He definitely knows right from wrong and, after meeting Melinda and Tom and some of their friends, he starts to change his way of thinking. Definitely not your average thief. His wife, Lisa.

James Walsh – this story’s bad guy.

Indie – Melinda’s best friend and her husband, Fred.

There are also some minor characters that help shape this story. Jason, Melinda’s son. Jeff, one of the victims in this tale, and his wife, Grace. Janice, the receptionist at the physical therapy office. There is also a hint of a political aspect involving Mayor Preston. And thrown into the mix just to keep things interesting is Officer Billings.

Melinda is definitely the star of this show. She provided quite a chuckle in her not-so-stellar investigative efforts. All of these characters intertwine together with their backstories and antics to make for an entertaining, quick read. It will be interesting to see what Melinda gets involved in next.


Wednesday, January 3, 2024

All Her Little Secrets by Wanda M. Morris Book Review


 

I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style and the depiction of Ellice, as well as the other characters intermixed in Ellice’s story. It is, however, sad to think that things like what happened to Ellice really happen in today’s world.

Ellice, while a strong Black woman, found herself in quite the pickle over what happened to Michael. There’s a backstory to Ellice and Michael’s relationship that weaves this story together. The other characters that you’ll find in this tale only help to enhance her story.

What I really enjoyed about this book is the writing style. While there is an underlying message, the author does not come across as pointing the finger, so to speak, or putting anyone at fault for the prejudices Ellice suffered. Rather, it seems that this book is based on experience and the message is very subtle. I will definitely read this author’s work in the future.

The Wrong Good Deed by Caroline B. Cooney Book Review


 

I’ve had this title sitting on my shelf for quite a while and decided to give it a read. I have to say I really enjoyed Clemmie and Muffin’s story. I mean … who could resist character names like Muffin and Clemmie?

Each of these ladies had their own pasts that were coming back to give them some trouble. Muffin finally opened up and told Clemmie about what she did back in the 1960s, which Clemmie had a hard time understanding. Clemmie herself had her own secret that she kept buried and didn’t even tell Muffin about. These events were only triggered by a rare sighting on Muffin’s part. A random act that had her scared.

Clemmie and Muffin came across in this tale as so lifelike, so realistic, even though they are characters in a book. I like the fact that I could feel Muffin’s fear. I was shocked and saddened a bit by what happened to Muffin. Clemmie … I don’t even know how to explain her character, but the author drops random ‘Clemmie thoughts,’ if you will, that are so spot on I felt myself relating to her so much. These thoughts seemingly came out of nowhere and added just that little bit more to this story.

Muffin’s history seemed pretty spot-on to what happened back in the 1960s. She’s quite an intriguing character herself.

And the title of the book? That is spot-on as well. If you like a little bit of history that comes crashing into the present, with a bit of humor tossed in for good measure, give this one a read.

Tuesday, December 26, 2023

Best Friends Forever by Shannon Hollinger Book Review


 

I received this book as a gift.

I don’t know why this author has not been on my auto buy list; she will be now. This is one of the BEST books I have read in 2023. It has everything I want in a book of this genre, and the caliber of the writing? Excellent.

Emma and Kate were best friends growing up. Lily is Kate’s little sister. Their high school group consisted of Mel, Becca, Jeff, Jimmy, Emma, and Kate. Kate also befriended one of the homeless men of their town, Brad, which is something folks didn’t understand. There is Mrs. Daley, Emma’s mom. And, of course, Kate’s own mom. There is also Ms. Lynn, the neighbor, who came by to keep Kate’s mom company most days, but even Ms. Lynn had a secret. Kate left home ten years ago because of something that happened and didn’t think she’d return, but a phone call brought her back home. The longer Kate stayed, the more she began to uncover the truth of what happened all those years ago, and the truth?

This tale is pretty twisted - entwining and uncovering everyone’s backstories. I sort of figured out the whodunnit but not entirely and I wasn’t sure of the reasoning. The characters, while imperfect, have a depth to them; their personalities jump off the pages. All the underlying smaller stories just add more to this tale. I would not hesitate to read more of this author’s work, and she is definitely on my auto buy list now. Give this one a read; I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.


Friday, December 1, 2023

Face of Greed by James L'Etoile Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Who is looking for a new police procedural and new characters? Here it is! Welcome to the new character of Emily Hunter and her partner, Javier Medina.

Emily is the sort of detective who is like a dog with a bone, even if following the scent leads her down the wrong path a time or two and finds her overstepping that path, sort of like breaking the rules. This makes Javier cringe at times.

The thing about Emily is that she is relatable. Emily’s mom has dementia and lives with Emily. The way her mom’s dementia is portrayed is so spot on. This is one of those diseases that is hard to explain, hard to understand, but the author has nailed his description.

I enjoyed this tale because of Emily’s character as well as Javier. And Emily’s mom. Javier’s mom, Lucinda, is also an important character in this tale; she helped Emily understand her mom’s decision just a bit more. There is also “Officer Booty Bandit,” gotta love that nickname!

It is going to be interesting to follow Emily through her career. I suspect she and Javier will continue to follow the paths less traveled to get to the answers. This is the kind of police procedural I enjoy reading because of the underlying backstories and the relatability of the characters and how they all tie together in the end. A bit of a love interest peppered in doesn’t hurt, either.

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Greed-Detective-Emily-Hunter-Mystery/dp/1608095878/ref=sr_1_1?crid=JYYAVYELCAXZ&keywords=face+of+greed+by+james+l%27etoile&qid=1695653701&sprefix=face+of+gree%2Caps%2C147&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/face-of-greed-james-letoile/1142808027?ean=9781608095872

 

Find James L’Etoile:

Website: https://jamesletoile.com/#deaddrop

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJamesLetoile/#deaddrop

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/james-l-etoile#deaddrop

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7076886.James_L_Etoile#deaddrop

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JamesLEtoile#deaaddrop

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjamesletoile/

 

Interested in your own book tour?

Partners in Crime: https://www.partnersincrimetours.net/

 

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Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Chloe Cates is Missing by Mandy McHugh Book Review


 

Here is yet another good book of 2023. I really enjoyed this one. It is pretty twisted. My kind of read.

In this tale we are introduced to Jennifer who has turned her daughter, Abigail (Abby), into Chloe. Jennifer is a bored homemaker who wanted something to do so she decided to start a blog which evolved into CC and Me. It took off more than ever anticipated, making Chloe a star in her own right.

I enjoyed the way this story unfolded in the voices of Jennifer, Emilina, Abby through her journal writing, Jackson (the dad who seems pretty clueless).

If you’re looking for a read that will make you go a-ha in the end, pick this one up. I am looking forward to reading more from this author.


Monday, November 20, 2023

Calico by Lee Goldberg Book Review


 

This was certainly a different take on a mystery, especially when Beth McCade found herself investigating a strange death that tied into the 1800s. Just exactly how she wasn’t sure but she was determined to find out even if she was ousted to the tiny town of Barstow. I’m sure there’s a bigger story there. You have to love the name of the bar in this town – Pour Decisions.

Enter Owen Slader. Imagine his surprise when he found himself ‘stuck’ in the 1800s and didn’t know how he got there other than a ‘rip in time’ that he was either fortunate enough or unfortunate enough to slip through.

The description of Owen living back in the 1800s, but being careful not to do anything that would hurt his future, was quite intriguing. How it all tied together in the end was even more interesting as Owen and his wife back in the 1800s wrote out explicit details for future generations. Definitely a different twist on things and one that you’re sure to enjoy if you are into time-travel and an old-time western tales.

Sunday, November 19, 2023

The CoWorker by Freida McFadden Book Review


 

I have heard a lot about this author and had never had the opportunity to read anything by her until now. I was reading this book thinking ho-hum these coworkers … then boom! The twist came in and now I understand why folks enjoy her writing so much. She will soon become one of my go-to authors for the twists she throws in when you least expect them.

In this tale of coworkers, we are introduced to Dawn Schiff. Dawn is one of those sorts of people who flies under the radar. There is more to her than meets the eye. There is Natalie Farrell … the pretty one, the one who has the friends, the one who has it all, the one who is the most successful at the company. Dawn just wants to be Nat’s friend.

How it all ties together … you’ll have to read the book to find out, but this is one twisted tale of coworkers. Will they keep their secrets? I don’t know if they will, but I did sort of figure out part of the whodunit, just not the reasons behind the why.

Friday, November 17, 2023

Girl on Trial by Kathleen Fine Blog Tour and Book Review


 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

This is my first introduction to this author … she has taken on some very heavy topics. She has written about these topics in such a way as to not place blame on anyone, which I appreciate.

This book is about Emily Keller, a 16-year-old teen, who is what you would call poor, or at least not well off. All Emily wants to do is fit in at school. She meets Hannah. Hannah is portrayed as a well-off girl, but there is so much more to Hannah than you might think. I cannot imagine being a teen in today’s world or a parent to a teen.

Mr. Thomas. I don’t even know what to say about Mr. Thomas. He was not a nice man, but an important character to this tale. His family includes his wife and two young daughters.

Miss Jelly. You have to like Miss Jelly. She’s the grandmother every kid wants.

Debbie, Emily’s mom. Debbie has her own set of issues. Nate is Emily’s twin brother who provides Emily with a strong sense of support; he quietly knows what’s going on without saying anything. Steph, a true friend to Emily. Topper and Chuck. Valerie. Charlie. Mindy. Judge Wilson. All of these characters help make this a colorful tale.

This book is about choices, about growing up, about the things that can happen when you make the wrong choices, but, again, it is written in such a way as to not place blame on anyone.

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Trial-Kathleen-Fine/dp/0744306833/ref=sr_1_1?crid=25P8Y7QTYG7MB&keywords=girl+on+trial+kathleen+fine&qid=1694387680&s=books&sprefix=girl+on+trial%2Cstripbooks%2C235&sr=1-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/girl-on-trial-kathleen-fine/1143087238?ean=9780744306835

 

Find Ms. Fine:

Website: https://www.kathleenfineauthor.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fine.kathleen

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/4056666470

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22857193.Kathleen_Fine

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kathleenfine

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathleenfineauthor/

 

Interested in your own book tour?

Partners in Crime: https://www.partnersincrimetours.net/

Need a proofreader? I’ve got you covered - https://www.melissaproofs.com/