Small Hearts by Bryan W. Dull - Book Review

Small Hearts by Bryan W. Dull

Synopsis:

Emily Sinclair is a teacher in seclusion, reeling from the loss of several of her third-grade students by the hands of a shooter that opened fire on several classrooms within Marie-Glen Elementary. While dealing with the anxiety of leaving her home and facing the people of the town, Emily is terrified by what is waiting for her outside that takes the shape of shadowy figures resembling her deceased students and the ghostly kids that she refers to as “the pales” that get closer to her with every step she takes. With her sanity in question, Emily seeks help from a psychiatrist, Paul Cusick, as she tells her story of being an educator of children that seemed unteachable to that fateful day in October. However, sometimes what we perceive as reality is skewed.

Review:

Small Hearts by Bryan W. Dull takes us on a skillfully written journey that’ll give you chills, and make you cry, but you’ll want to continue reading to the end. A surprising, amazing must-read story for paranormal, suspense and horror enthusiasts.

Emily Sinclair, a former educator now living as a recluse, is in a fitful state. She had no other choice but to leave the school after her third-grade students were shot at Marie-Glen Elementary. The anxiety of leaving and facing the people of the town inhabited her thoughts day and night. The nightmares torture her until her brain feels warped and unnatural unlikely to return to normal. Too tired to fight her way out, she gives into the darkness and sinks into the epitome of hell.  As her body is submerged into the dreamscape, she hears wailing, then the sound of small voices, and hearts she recognized. She feels the little hands pushing her up and out of the murky confines she’d sunk into. She pleads with them to stop, but their answer was no, she must go on. Standing she realized the landscape and her body had returned to normal. Yet, there was something out there tempting to obstruct the light. Who or what was blocking her way now?

You’ll lose yourself in the story hoping the now ghostly children from the school’s massacre will find peace and leave Emily alone. She needs to grieve and come to terms with the deaths of the children, and the loss of her reputation, and her fiancé. The twists and turns in Small Hearts are unexpected and make a meaningful contribution to the overall story. Yes, this is, primarily, a horror novel, with graphic storytelling; however, if readers will give this book a read, you, like me, will want to see this become a number one bestseller. Why? Someone needed to tell this story, and the author does an amazing job with sensitivity to this societal horror.

The author, Bryan W. Dull, boldly takes a present nightmare, albeit horror for society, and creates a story with unforgettable fictional characters. His provocative story based on true events sends a strong message about crime in our country and at the same time offers us hope for the future. Brilliantly written and a must-read adult horror fiction. Small Hearts by Bryan W. Dull is highly recommended by Artisan Book Reviews.
Book reviewed by CJ Bowen for Artisan Book Reviews

Don’t miss out on this excellent read! Purchase Small Hearts by Bryan W. Dull Today!

Learn more about author Bryan W. Dull by visiting his Featured Author page at Artisan Book Reviews' Author Spotlight page.

Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer

Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer

Synopsis:

It is the mid-twenty first century. The world is recovering from what scholars will refer to as the “Jihad War.”

Nations of the world united to bring a permanent end to radical terrorism. The unification of the nations has also given birth to the popular concept of a governing “World Union,” in which the United States intends to be a major player. The timing could not be any better. A presidential election year is on the horizon and a faceless rouge element is committed to having one of their own in the White House.

There were extreme losses of life and property in the concentrated battle theater of the Middle East.

The leading nations of the world emerged victorious over the oppressive extremists that threatened the civil and moral fabric of modern society. The high price of victory was unavoidable.

Nuclear weapons were used in order to bring the destructive war to an abrupt end.

The United States found itself as the sole military and financial leader of the world’s war against the radical terrorists. The war’s length lasted far beyond what had been predicted, diminishing many of the United States resources specifically, its wealth. Bringing the proud nation to the brink of bankruptcy.

Radiation from the nuclear weapons contaminated 85% of the water supply in the Middle East and large amounts were now being detected in the Atlantic Ocean.

A private and well-funded individual has been anticipating a catastrophe such as this, and has spun a web so delicate, its victims don’t realize they are trapped until it’s too late. She has assembled the best minds in order to develop a device that would instantly purify polluted and contaminated water.

However, this device is not being developed for humanitarian reasons. It is being developed for wealth and power. Not for an individual, but for a nation…the United States of America.

Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer is a 5 Star – Must read book which has received rave reviews from Amazon readers and reviewers.

Amazon Reviews:

5 Stars – Riveting…so compelling, I could not put it down.Engrossing and exciting story and very timely in our politically/environmentally charged world. Great characters to love and hate… This story is well written, and developed. It would make a GREAT movie. My only problem with this book is that it ENDED, as I wanted to read on and on. So for that reason, I am so looking forward to reading more in the next book….. Impatiently waiting. I highly recommend this book.

5 Stars – Nail Biting Page TurnerMr. Feinauer is a born story teller. He spins a thrilling tale seeped in dirty politics and bright young things who are biting off more than they can chew. However, it’s an exciting race of good vs. evil that will keep you guessing, page after page, until the very end. An absolute must-read for those who love reading action-packed thrillers, especially one as exciting and well written as Neptune‘s Chalice.

5 Stars – Magnificent concept and storyline.A great fictional story written in the not so distant future about a world saving device, the corruption at the highest levels of our government, and all the intrigue and murder surrounding it. A magnificent concept and story line that will leave you wanting more.

5 Stars – Neptune’s Chalice -Great plotInteresting plot. Intense throughout the book. Very detailed. Loved the characters. Not a boring moment. Can’t wait for second book!!

5 Stars – Loved it!Loved Neptune’s Chalice! I’ve been eagerly waiting on this novel and it did not disappoint. The story was well developed and easy to follow. Very intriguing. Loved the characters! I hated that it had to end. I wanted to keep reading. Hurry up Michael and write the next one! I think this would make an excellent movie. I already have the movie stars picked out. A must read!

5 Stars – Neptune’s Chalice – Awesome
Very intriguing! Looking forward to the next book!

5 Stars – The book that you won’t put down!Such an intense and involved story with very possible situations. Love the main characters! I surely hope there is a sequel!

Don’t miss out on this amazing read Purchase Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer Today!
 Watch Neptune’s Chalice – Book Trailer by Clicking Here & Scrolling Down a Bit

Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends Neptune’s Chalice by M.J. Feinauer

The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas

The Truth About Gretchen (Dancing Hills Series Book 2) by Alretha Thomas                                          Synopsis:

Gretchen Holloway, in her final year of graduate school, is in the throes of auditioning actors for her thesis film, inspired by a murdered young football star who has haunted her dreams for two years. Gretchen believes making the movie will be cathartic. But instead of freeing her, embarking upon the film production unleashes a sequence of events that lead Gretchen to conclude that she’s the reincarnation of the young man.

Regina Wilson has always wanted to be an actress. When her agent gets her an audition for a role in Gretchen’s film, which eerily mirrors one of the worst events of her life—the unsolved murder of her older brother, Robert—she’s hard-pressed to go through with it. Upon fleeing, she leaves behind a keepsake that features Robert’s photo. Gretchen sees the picture and recognizes Robert from her dreams. She tracks down Regina, and after being rebuffed and called crazy, Gretchen’s unexplainable knowledge of events in Robert’s life eventually convinces Regina that Gretchen is Robert reincarnated.

The two decide to have his case reopened, but their significant others are dead set against it, and the police, who believe that Robert’s death was gang-related, are less than cooperative. However, Gretchen is desperate to get justice for her former self, and Regina wants justice for her brother. The women piece together the final week of Robert’s life. And the deeper they delve into his past; one shocking revelation follows another, leaving them wondering who they can trust and if they’ll live long enough to find Robert’s killer and bring him to justice.

Chick Lit Cafe’s Review:

The Truth About Gretchen by award winning author, Alretha Thomas is an intriguing, captivating mystery unlike anything I have ever read. This is one of those rare books that must be made into a movie. Readers are in for a surprise with this suspense filled, mysterious and emotional book.

Gretchen Holloway has been cursed with recurring nightmares about a young man who has been murdered. She is a graduate film student, and feels a strong need to make a movie about her dreams and what she sees.  Regina Wilson’s brother, Robert, was murdered twenty-six years ago, and it has since gone unsolved. She is an actress about to audition for the leading role in Gretchen’s film, but she backs out at the last minute with the chilling feeling that the film strangely resembles her own brother’s murder. However, she mistakenly leaves something behind which Gretchen finds. This seemingly insignificant item bonds Gretchen and Regina together in an intriguing, momentous and spiritual way.

Alretha Thomas’ expressive writing style captivated me from the very first chapter. I quickly connected with Gretchen and Regina, as I felt their emotions, heard their thoughts and could picture the entire scene as they were driven to find Robert’s killer. With a powerful original premise and compelling storyline woven together beautifully, The Truth About Gretchen is the best book I have read in years. It is magnificently written in the first person of the two main characters. This story is a rollercoaster ride with many dirty players involved. With a depth rarely seen in mystery and suspense books, the author has created a one-of-a-kind story with remarkable, relatable and likable characters and compelling clues that all come to shape magnificently, drawing the reader further and further in at every turn of the page. The conclusion is astounding.

The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas is a welcome gift to all readers who love mysteries that go beyond the ordinary. But, instead delves into extraordinary unique elements that will keep them coming back for more from this noteworthy author. This is a 5 star must read book!

Purchase The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas

Visit Alretha Thomas’ Featured Author page on CLC’s Author Spotlight page.

Feast of Men: Story of a Woman's Heart - Ayn Dillard

Feast of Men: Story of a Woman’s Heart by Ayn Dillard

Synopsis:

A woman’s magical mysterious, nightmarish, adventurous journey through men on her quest to have a better understanding of the male energy on her search to find genuine and everlasting love. Just as life brings her the masculine offering of a chance for love, along with experiencing another aspect of herself in reflection – her heart is disappointed even broken. She then is given the opportunity to heal, as she becomes even more aware of the masculine energy and her relation to it, along with a deeper awareness of her imprints and beliefs. As she travels forward on her journey, the pieces come together, break and then come together again offering her the ability to become more aware and whole. What if Eve was leading Adam to the opportunity to experience all and every dimension of life? The feminine as it relates to masculine and masculine as it relates to feminine. Male and female rubbing souls against one another for the possibility and benefit of what love creates and heals. And this is exactly what God intended – in the full power of ‘his knowing’ – that only a woman would be able to entice a man to do so. God, after all created the serpent along with the opportunity for choice without which there would be no dark defining light challenges on earth.

Review:

The author, Ayn Dillard, has skillfully written a novel that bares the soul, incites the reader with the injustice and cruelty of a narcissistic father, as they join Natalie Duncan on her journey to release her past and find true love.

Natalie’s relationships have a tendency to build up her hopes, only to fall apart as the men who initially pursue her have not dealt with their individual struggles and issues. After three painful divorces, Natalie is ready to find genuine and lasting love. On her way home from visiting a wealthy playboy architect, she is swept off her feet by a handsome airline Captain. The events of the day magically draw them together with the promise of everything she has ever dreamed of. However her moral determination will not allow the relationship to progress until after he has legally left his unhappy marriage. Making this decision, leaves her feeling abandoned. While waiting for the outcome, on a whim she answers an ad and meets another man who appears to be a possible partner, until his personality unfolds and she finds herself questioning. Woven into her heart-felt psychological journey, she endures the cruel jibes of her father. Desiring his approval and affection, she is met with his disappointment and hostility. Added to this, is the betrayal by a prominent local businessman who employs her to write a book with him that turns into his unwanted sexual advances. Natalie proves to be an exceptional woman of strength and character who is dealt repeated cruel blows in her search to discover herself, heal from her family dynamics and achieve her dreams. The book culminates into a cliffhanger making the reader wonder how Natalie will be able to deal with all she has been dealt and which man will win her heart.

The author, Ayn Dillard, has written a moving and emotive novel that examines the human psyche. She described her own inner turmoil in such an intricate and personal way that it draws the reader into her journey to feel he depth of her emotions. The complex relationships are related in intimate detail which helps the reader to understand her need and search. This is a stunning piece of writing that really examines the soul and opens the heart and will leave every reader wondering about their own loves, dreams and desires. It’s not just about love and companionship, but about truth. It’s about the need to be desired and ultimately about understanding who you are and feeling comfortable with what you discover as energy frequencies try to align. The depth of this author’s affection, tenderness and sentiment are reflected perfectly in Natalie. Throughout this story the reader is led to empathize with her and to have the desire that she finds fulfillment and happiness though love.

FEAST OF MEN examines the intricacies of the female heart and mind juxtaposed against that of the male and emphasizes every human’s need for genuine love and understanding. You will not easily forget this novel or this author. This is a novel that truly has the heart and soul of the writer on every page.

Purchase Feast of Men: Story of a Woman’s Heart by Ayn Dillard today!

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk by Nadishka Aloysius – Children’s Book

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius

Synopsis:

If you and your family love CULTURAL DIVERSITY and TRAVEL then this is the book for you

Roo is a little Tuk Tuk. Join Roo as he recalls the many ups and downs of his life on the roads of Colombo (the commercial capital of Sri Lanka). From road races, to Polo tournaments, to animal rescues, this little vehicle has lived life to its fullest. Experience the joys and perils of Tuk Tuks on the streets, and learn many life lessons along the way with this courageous Tuk Tuk who is always ready to lend a helping hand and spread some cheer. You are never too little to make a difference…

Also known as tri-shaws or three wheelers, Tuk Tuks are a common sight in the eastern world. All foreign visitors are encouraged to ride a Tuk Tuk at least once when they visit Sri Lanka: but the recommendation also goes with a warning to HOLD ON TIGHT! 

All the incidents in this book are adapted from news stories and Facebook posts of real life Tuk Tuk drivers who are unafraid to be more than just a means of transportation. So, (I’d say ‘buckle your seatbelt’ but there are no seatbelts in Tuk Tuks…!), enjoy some of the sights and sounds of beautiful Colombo and its wonderful people as you read this book that also teaches you – you are never too little to make a difference!

*** Includes a JIGSAW PUZZLE for you to print and play*** 

Review:

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk by Nadishka Aloysius is a delightful story about an adorable little Tuk Tuk vehicle who reminisces about his life filled with adventure, excitement, fun and service through his love for helping others.

This is such a unique and charming picture book for young children. Before I read this wonderful book, I had the notion that “Tuk Tuk” was a cute word the author, Nadishka Aloysius cleverly came up with for the book in order to make it extra special and appealing to kids. I was amazed to discover that it is an actual vehicle used in Colombo, Sri Lanka to transport people. What a nice and surprising experience for children to enjoy a story filled with fun and adventure while learning something new. Roo is a little Tuk Tuk who has had an exciting and meaningful life full of interesting and fun experiences. Giving people rides and hauling books to help for charity are just some of the many important things Roo has had the pleasure of doing in his little Tuk Tuk life. Roo is red, sweet, kind and loves to help others. Now he is older and ready to rest and retire. What will become of Roo the little red Tuk Tuk who has spent a lifetime of service, whizzing around while helping and caring about others? Children will be delighted at the happy ending of this endearing, lovable and original picture book. Nadishka Aloysius has done a remarkable job of creating a wonderful imaginative story. She has written it so very young children will understand the meaningful narrative, and be thrilled with the storyline. The pictures, created by Illustrator, Privanka Fonseka are lively, vivid and captivating. I read Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk to my young granddaughters, ages 2, 3 and 5. They were excited and thrilled by all of the action, adventure, bright colors – and the sweet and engaging story of little Roo. They delighted in the colorful pictures, and loved all the many different sounds that Roo made while he buzzed around the city. Now, they want it read to them often, and this book has helped to further teach them the meaning and importance of caring about, and helping others.

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk is a must read book and story for all young children, and I am certain they will love totally love it! It is so special, adventuresome and delightful! Artisan Book Reviews recommends Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius to all parents, grandparents and caregivers for those special little ones in your life. And don’t forget, it comes with a cute jig saw puzzle for kids to have fun and play with, as well.

Purchase Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius today!

The Karma Book Club by Kayley Wood - Book Review

The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy by Kayley Wood 
Series: Club Series 
Genres: Emotional, Humorous, Romantic Comedy 
Format: Kindle 
Buy on Amazon 
Goodreads 
 

Synopsis:

Mia never felt the need to speak up for herself… not with three protective sisters (who always know what is best for her), an assertive boyfriend (Doug never minds speaking for her), and then there is her bestie, Kat, who has no problem stealing the attention for herself.

With a nervous bladder (which strikes at the worst possible times) and a fear of public speaking, Mia is comfortable with the way things are.

That is, until Mia comes home to find her things packed by the door and is told the news that her boyfriend and best friend fell in love.

Now homeless and anything but comfortable, Mia’s three sisters come to the rescue (as usual) by helping her land the perfect apartment, but a colossal mishap lands gorgeous, bad boy Logan on her doorstep with a key and a lease of his own.

In exchange for a free month’s stay, Logan agrees to help Mia find the voice and confidence she now desperately craves.

The plan? Mia will finally stand up for herself and give her exes what they deserve.

It’s not revenge. It’s Karma.

Mia’s one rule: No matter how charming, funny and sexy Logan Miller is, she cannot fall in love with him.

Logan’s one rule: No matter how adorable, sweet and sexy she is, Mia is off limits.

Are some rules made to be broken, or will Logan turn out to be what everyone warned her he was: someone who would only break her heart in the end?

An updated, professionally edited version. Although all books in the Club Series can be read as a standalone, it’s way more fun to read in order.

Purchase: The Karma Book Club by Kayley Wood today!

The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood

Book review:

The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood is a must read, 5 star romantic comedy with delightful characters, an exciting, funny and heartfelt narrative and convincing, addicting plot.

Mia watches her entire life crumble before her very eyes as her so-called “best friend” and her supposed trustworthy “boyfriend” sit her down on her favorite red couch (that she purchased) to break the heartbreaking (for her) news that they were in love and kicking her out of her own apartment. Shocked and numb to this appalling and shameful act of betrayal, Mia has nothing to say but her mind races with a million thoughts. One being how she had paid for the majority of everything in her apartment and now she is getting nothing, but practically kicked out onto the street. What wonderful friends she has. Good thing Mia also has her sisters who come to her rescue like she knew they would, in their own ways of course but each very resourceful.  They even found the perfect new apartment for her that would set her on a good start to a new life on her own minus the toxic people she was leaving behind and to keep in her past.

Logan has been couch surfing for the past few months after having a fall out with a rich and popular power couple that had already made sure his good name was tarnished. This seemed to be preventing Logan from obtaining a new job which led to his stay at his best buds pad that he shared with his very reluctant girlfriend. He needed a place of his own and a perfect apartment happened to be opening up as soon as the old tenant died, which was at any moment now, Logan was told by his friend. Leases are signed and moves are made. Mia finds Logan at her door with a pleasant misunderstanding. With an agreement of exchanging confidence boosting coaching sessions for free rent, Mia decides to keep things platonic between her and Logan, despite his gorgeous looks and dashing personality. But that doesn’t quite work out for Mia when sparks fly with Logan!

The Karma Book Club by Kayley Wood is hilariously funny and unique! A fun plot that keeps you guessing at every turn of the page! This book had me laughing out loud, along with experiencing many heartfelt emotions throughout this grand slam of a story! Kayley Wood has really delivered a fun-loving novel with charming characters and a delightful plotline to boot! She has a creative expressive voice and delightful writing style, drawing the reader in, engaging them with her outstanding narrative and plot. The Karma Book Club is a story which shows that even when life seems impossible and hopeless there is still a light at the end of the tunnel. Life has a funny way of working itself out and this is a perfect portrayal of such. What a great read! Chick Lit Cafédefinitely recommends The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood to all readers who enjoy original romantic comedies filled with down-to-earth emotion, relatable characters and packed with clever “LOL” humor.

~Reviewed by Beatrix Bloom for Chick Lit Café~

Purchase The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood today!

What readers are saying about The Karma Book Club

“I must say I am totally wowed by this author. I spent as much time laughing as I did crying at parts of this story.” – Amazon review

“Phenomenal. I laughed a lot with this one. Well done Kayley.” – Amazon review

“I don’t believe in Karma so I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy this book, but I did! So funny!” – Amazon review

“Logan stole my heart. Mia needed Logan for her to be the person she should be.” – Goodreads review

“I knew I liked Logan Miller! I was excited to read this one after The Virgin Club and I wasn’t disappointed. It was the right balance between fun and emotion and romance. – Goodreads review

Really love this series. Can’t wait until the next book is out. – Goodreads review
Check Out The Entire LOL Romantic Comedy “The Club Series” by Kayley Wood

When a Stranger Comes… by Karen S. Bell

When a Stranger Comes… by Karen S. Bell 

Synopsis:

2018 Readers’ Favorite Bronze Medal Winner!

A GRIPPING PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER FOR FANS OF KING AND KOONTZ!

“RIVETING”–Kirkus Reviews

What price would you pay for success?

A lightning bolt out-of the blue on an otherwise sunny afternoon, transports author Alexa Wainwright to an alternate universe where the characters from her novels are given the breadth of life. Having just made a vow that she would do whatever it took to once again achieve the international acclaim of her debut novel, Alexa doesn’t realize how ominously that vow would be tested. In this altered reality, she is introduced to media mogul King Blakemore who offers her an extremely lucrative book contract with guarantees that her work will become a best-selling blockbuster. Given his appearance, odd mannerisms, and aura of evil Alexa wonders if King Blakemore might be the Devil himself.

At first, she shrugs off her doubts about this peculiar publisher and very lucrative book deal offer because the temptation of riches and refound fame is too strong. But all too soon, Alexa realizes she’s trapped in an underworld of evil from which she desperately wants to escape. Her iron-clad book contract changes its wording whenever she thinks of a loophole, and King always seems one step ahead of her. Desperate to get her life back, she devises schemes to untether herself from this hellish existence to no avail. She laments the old adage, Be careful what you wish for.

Buy this book if you’re a reader who loves a page-turning, heart-stopping, psychological thriller with some magical realism thrown in.

Book Review:

When A Stranger Comes by Karen S. Bell is a riveting, must read psychological thriller with an original gripping plot and heart-pounding storyline and premise.

Author Alexa Wainwright wants nothing more than for her new novel to be a bestseller and regain her renowned international status that her debut novel once gave her. Thrown into an alternate reality, Alexa makes a deal with a bizarre publisher who promises her fortune and fame with her new novel. Despite her resistance and doubts about this strange acting and looking CEO of Trinity of Sixes, Alexa can’t resist the idea of her new book becoming a hit and somehow, unknowingly, signs the contract (a deal with the devil?) and gets herself into a deep trap of evil which she must escape. Her greed and desire drags her down into a dangerous evil world of psychological and twisted reality and into an inescapable nightmare.

When a Stranger Comes by Karen S Bell is filled with mysterious, thrilling and complicated psychological scenarios. The reader will be delighted, engaged and riveted while guessing what’s real and what’s not. The author takes the reader on a ride of twists and turns with every turn of the page. Reality blends with an imaginative, brilliantly conjured-up and well-written altered reality in this one-of-a-kind psychological thriller. A compelling read with a paranormal slant, Karen Bellpulls it all together with a clever storyline which takes readers on a journey they won’t forget. Be careful what you wish for and greed are aptly defined as the protagonist soon finds out. We discover that fame and fortune can be dangerous and is not for everyone. The characters are great and well developed, as I totally related to them and felt like I knew them.

When A Stranger Come by Karen S. Bell is a fabulous book and one that is original and different with is orderly dreamy plot and engaging storyline. Chick Lit Cafe recommends this fantastical, literary tale to all psychological thriller readers and beyond.

Purchase When A Stranger Come by Karen S. Bell today!

Cherokee Summer by Susan Antony - Book Review - 5 Stars

Cherokee Summer by Susan Antony

Synopsis:

When Ace leaves home to spend the summer in Cherokee, North Carolina the last thing she expects to find is a boyfriend until she meets Cherokee Tribe member John Spears. As Ace and John’s friendship blossoms, they find their life experiences mirror each other and they fall in love. Despite hurdles thrown by well-meaning family members and jealous frenemies, the star-crossed lovers remain committed to their mutual belief that the universe has drawn them together. However, when Ace sends John a strange text and then suddenly disappears, the two must rely on their trust in each other to save both their lives and their love.

Review:

Cherokee Summer by Susan Antony is a, must read, endearing of story of two young people that meet, become best friends, and fall deeply in love. These two sweet love birds are faced with obstacles, as they struggle within themselves, families, community and unexpected circumstances that stand to keep them from being together.

Spending the summer in Cherokee, NC with her family, Ace never thinks she’d meet someone special and fall in love. But fate steps in and she meets, John, a Cherokee tribe member and native North Carolinian. Despite their cultural differences, Ace and John are undeniably drawn to one another, and find a deep connection, friendship, and eventually love for each other. They both have many struggles within their families as both of their mothers are alcoholics. Various circumstances stand to destroy them as a couple or keep them apart. Ace and John must trust each other in order to allow their love flourish. They discover when they are together, they find a place of escape from their problems.

If that’s not enough, despite their efforts, things get more complicated, and the story changes gears and turns into an exciting action-charged adventure. Readers will be fully captivated and unable to put this book down, while quickly reading to find out what will happen next.

In Cherokee Summer by Susan Antony, the descriptive writing of the settings, objects, scenarios and character’s personalities, brought this book to vivid life. Antony’s expressive narration pulled me in from the very first chapter and had me fully interested, and absorbed, throughout the entire story. The characters have an authenticity and unique depth to them rarely seen in most contemporary romance novels. The way these characters dealt with alcoholism within their family was very intense, real, and relatable. I appreciated the cleanness of this story as the love between Ace and John is pure and innocent. The mix of modern day practices with the old world traditions within the Native American culture, which author, Susan Antony brought to Cherokee Summer is fascinating and rather brilliant. She is a very good story-teller and an excellent writer. This is the very first book I’ve read by her and it absolutely won’t be the last. Chick Lit Cafe highly recommends this wonderful young adult and clean contemporary romance story. Cherokee Summer by Susan Antony a definite 5 star, must-read, romance novel.

Purchase Cherokee Summer by Susan Antony today!

Murder She Wrote: Murder in Red by Jon Land

Murder She Wrote: Murder in Red by Jon Land

Synopsis:

In the latest entry in this USA Today bestselling series, Jessica loses a loved one to unnatural causes and sets her sights on the mysterious local hospital before more people wind up dead on arrival…

Jessica Fletcher’s favorite gin rummy partner, Mimi Van Dorn, checks into the brand-new Clifton Care Partners, a private hospital that’s just opened up shop in town, for a simple procedure—one that leads tragically, and inexplicably, to her death. Seeking justice in her inimitable fashion, Jessica decides to pursue her own investigation on the hospital and its shadowy business dealings.

On the trail of what initially appears to be medical malpractice, Jessica digs deeper and learns her friend was actually a victim of something far more sinister. Death is bad for business, but murder is even worse, and Jessica will find plenty of both as she races to bring down Clifton Care Partners before someone else flatlines…

Review:

Murder She Wrote: Murder in Red is written by Jon Land and is book number 49 in the Murder She Wrote series. Here we find the inimitable Jessica Fletcher becoming embroiled in mysteries and murders, conspiracies and fraud as the story grasps the reader and hauls them into its pages from the outset. When Jessica’s close friend dies unexpectedly, alarm bells start ringing in Jessica’s mind and she sets out on a mission to find answers to what turns out to be a mystery that continues to astound her (and the reader) until the very end. Unknown relatives, masquerading professionals, illegal activities and callous intentions of the very people who should be trusted are molded into a rip-roaring sleuth investigation that will have the reader on the edge of their seat and wanting more.

Jessica is determined and relentless in her search for the truth, even to the point of putting her own life on the line. She calls on her loyal and steadfast friends in Cabot Cove, lawmen, doctors and retired professionals to help her in her quest, and when a good friend from England is at risk Jessica will stop at nothing to unravel the mystery and bring the perpetrators to account for their actions. Add to this the hint of medical malpractice, strange disappearances, and betrayal of trust, and you have a memorable story that has the reader guessing to the very end.

In Murder in Red there are so many twists and turns in this story the reader is almost breathless and left wondering what will be uncovered on the next page, and it has to be said many of the twists are unforeseen, making this a really enjoyable and exciting read. The characters are so believable one could expect to travel to Cabot Cove and meet them in person. The writing is excellent, giving the reader a visual view of the settings and really bringing the story to life.

The author, Jon Land, has a true gift of not only conceiving a clever storyline and building strong characters but finding the perfect ‘voice’ of Jessica who tells her story in the first person and shares her thoughts and feelings with the reader throughout. Add to all this a little hint of a sense of humor and Murder in Red is just perfect. You won’t be able to stop reading and prepare to be surprised at the very end. Definitely not to be missed.

Chick Lit Café once again highly recommends exemplary author Jon Land, and his newest installment in the Murder She Wrote series, Murder in Red. A must read, 5 star mystery that readers will love and revel in.

Reviewed by Jane Finch for Chick Lit Café

Purchase Murder She Wrote series, Murder in Red by Jon Land today!

The Black Widows by Jane Finch - Book Review

The Black Widows by Jane Finch

Synopsis:

Another great mystery from bestselling author, Jane Finch! What makes a woman kill the man she has loved? Three women from different backgrounds, brought together by their determination to make a fortune from their unsuspecting husbands. Carefully selected, the men are lured into the widow’s trap, completely beguiled, until their ultimate disposal. The women meet regularly to discuss their progress and compare notes on new methods of termination. It seems they are invincible. A journey back in time gives the reader an insight into the women’s past and the reasons for their determination to seek revenge on the men they marry. But even in death, all is not as it seems.

Review:

The Black Widows by Jane Finch tells the story of three women, all from different backgrounds, whose husbands die in mysterious circumstances. Jessica, Caprice and Suzannah all meet regularly to discuss their marriages and their plans for disposal of their spouses. It all sounds gruesome and heartless, but sometimes all is not as it seems. The story takes a look into the past of the three women and their turbulent lives, giving a different perspective to their crimes and possibly providing a little empathy for them. It could be said this book is a peephole into the lives of compulsive psychological killers, or is there more to their stories than is seen on the surface? What could make a woman kill the man she has loved?

The Black Widows explores the minds of these women who lure their unsuspecting husbands into a honey trap. Their characters and motives are all different, yet they are united with one cause. Could that be revenge?  Like the spider weaving her web, the author spins three well-developed stories of love, loss, death, betrayal and triumph, although not necessarily in that order! As the book concludes you will be surprised by the ending, which is definitely not the one anticipated for these women whose lives have taken a direction they would never have imagined.

This book will surprise you because you may think you know what to expect, and then the story will take a twist that will make you gasp and be unable to stop reading. Is it possible to sympathize with a killer? Could their actions be justified? This thriller will have you rushing to get your affairs in order, suspecting the motives of even your best friend, and looking with suspicion at every grieving widow you see. Just when you think the story is over, the author provides historical articles with true crimes of passion and their outcomes Welcome to the world of adult fiction. If you enjoy stories like Fatal Attraction and Natural Born Killers, then this book is for you. Prepare for a roller coaster ride of emotions as you meet Jessica, Caprice and Suzannah who are The Black Widows.

Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends The Black Widows by Jane Finch to all enthusiastic mystery readers!

The author, Jane Finch, is a member of International Thriller Writers Inc.

Purchase The Black Widows by Jane Finch today!