Cold But Not Forgotten by RJ Waters

Cold But Not Forgotten by Rj Waters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cold But Not Forgotten by RJ Waters is a great mystery with that small town feel. The main character, Lieutenant Carson, a rural Nevada detective happens upon a woman's dead body while he's out at a shooting range. Even though she is covered in blood, there are no obvious wounds, and the mystery begins. Carson delves into the case of the dead woman, someone who was well liked it seems. There's a lot going on in the story, from the husband having an affair to a widowed neighbor. Everyone seems to have secrets and a reason to kill. The writing is down to earth, the small town vibe is engaging, and the mystery itself is seemingly unsolvable. This along with a solid plot and believable characters make for a fun and fast paced read. Highly recommend.

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Finding Her Place (The Foundling's Path-Part 2) by Jemima Brigges

Finding her Place: (The Foundling's Path - Part 2) by Jemima Brigges
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding her Place – (The Foundling’s Path – Part 2) – (Linmore Series – Book 6) by Jemima Brigges is set in the Post-Napoleonic Regency era of 1817 and is a beautifully written tale. While it might be helpful to read this series in order, this book certainly stands well on its own. Nell Walcote is an endearing character as she finds her place in the world. The plot itself revolves around hidden things, secrets, and bringing those secrets to light propels the plot and story forward. The more entangled relationships and circumstances become, the more there is to uncover. The dialogue is perfect in this book as well, the author expertly keeping it within the tone of the time frame, yet it manages to capture emotion and compels the reader to keep reading. This book falls into the regency historical fiction genre, and the author writes with a confidant tone and one you will fall in love with. Great characters, interesting history, and a strong plot make this book a must read. Highly recommend.

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The Pandarus File by Kyle Keyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Panderus File by Kyle Keyes is a great mystery novel by this prolific author. The book gets off to a quick start, there is no deviating from the grit of the story here. Keyes is adept at pulling the reader right into the story. Going back and forth between the 1950's and the early 2000's, this book is mostly written from the point of view of the murder suspect. However, she may not be the most reliable person in the novel, and off we go into this mesmerizing novel. Of course there is subterfuge, murder, and chaos as only Keyes can write it, and you are left wanting more of this writing and this crazy story as it races to the end. Filled with detail, clues, and the seductive use of clever language, this book is one that you shouldn't miss. Highly recommend for a one of a kind read.

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Lost in the Crowd by M.J. Santley

Lost in the Crowd by M.J. Santley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lost in the Crowd by M.J. Santley is one of the more original biographies out there. Witty, intelligent, full of self deprecating humor, and overflowing with poetry, this biography is truly original and highlights the author's life. Santley has a crazy gift with his writing, although he seems to think of himself as an idiot. You get a feel for his life in northern Britain, with all of his wanderings, and his witticisms along the way. This is a refreshing discourse, as the author tells us about his life, at once positive, sometimes meandering, but always entertaining. Highly recommend for a window into the author's world. Good stuff.

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Quantum Roots II : Worm Holes by Kyle Keyes

Quantum Roots II: Worm Holes by Kyle Keyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Quantum Roots II: Worm Holes by Kyle Keyes is a strange, quirky, and thoroughly entertaining book that bounces off the first in the series, Quantum Roots. Quite a bit of violence pervades this book, but if you can get past that, this is an easy read amazingly, and often funny. The interactions between the characters are off the charts sometimes, making them quirky, and kind of relatable. Written in pretty simple language, the plot is pretty easy to grasp, and the pace moves along nicely. If you have an avid interest in worm holes, quarks, etc. this is certainly a book you will enjoy. It is fun to ponder such things especially within the confines of science fiction, where you know it isn't real. The historical nature of the book combined with quantum physics make this truly a one of a kind read. Highly recommend for a different and offbeat book.


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Hometown Girl Memories by Kirsten Fullmer

Hometown Girl Memories by Kirsten Fullmer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hometown Girl Memories (Hometown Series Book 6) by Kirsten Fullmer is a beautifully written story and being the sixth in the series, stands well on it's own. It may be beneficial however to read the previous selections in the series to get a real foundation for the stories. This is a small town story, featuring likable and relatable characters like Tara, and Winnie, each with their own set of unique problems and challenges. A letter arrives for Winnie, who is elderly, and this pulls her back to her younger days in the 1960's, and it basically opens up a lot of memories for her. Tara has her own issues, dealing with work, a young daughter, and a complicated relationship. All of these elements combine to create a finely written novel, one that has a classic tone, a romance contained within, and well fleshed out, thoughtful characters. This book will definitely pull at your heartstrings as you realize how often the past can affect the present. Highly recommend.

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Night of the Rat by Tanya Thompson

Night of the Rat by Tanya Thompson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Night of the Rat by Tanya Thompson is a amalgamation of dark comedy and satire. Though the opening scene is rather dark, grisly, and disturbing, as a rat enter his death throes, the rest of the book bounces along in a bizarre way. This makes you either laugh or cry, as you enter this strange world of Silas and T. They're animal lovers, yet they must dispose of rats who have taken over, simply because the cats are not doing their jobs. This is dark and twisted comedic writing, and one of two things will happen; you will be drawn to it or baffled by it, either way it's hard to remain neutral about the story or the talent of the author. Highly recommend for a fun and enticing short read.

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The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell

I absolutely loved this book. I usually read a couple books a week, but this one had my full attention. Lisa Jewell is my new favorite author. The way this story evolved and changed through the various narrators perspectives was flawless. Each person was interesting and added to the unease of the story. Well done! Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy.

Crossroads and the Himalayan Crystals by C. Toni Graham

Crossroads and the Himalayan Crystals by C. Toni Graham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Crossroads and the Himalayan Crystals by C. Toni Graham, is geared toward the YA and teen crowd but still may appeal to anyone older as well. You will thoroughly enjoy this fantasy tale as you follow a group of friends, Jake, Conner, Seneca, and Shayna. These kids are well fleshed out characters, each with their respective flaws, some more than other, but all are good kids. When they are transported into another realm, the story changes rapidly. On a school assignment, they are transported to a place called Fionia, where there is an abundance of magic creatures. While a lovely and mystical place, it is dangerous too. This book is a great combination of fantasy, mystery and adventure. The plot keeps you engaged due to its fast pace, the setting is beautiful, and the characters are ones you will get attached to as well. Great book and highly recommend.

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False Step by Victoria Helen Stone

False Step by Victoria Helen Stone. I enjoyed this book, I liked that the characters felt real. Veronica was a normal person with an ordinary job, and so was her husband Johnny. This is so refreshing, as most couples in novels today, are either filthy rich with an abusive husband, and the wife is clueless, or the wife has this amazing career. This book was notably different, and felt very real and realistic. I liked that they had their squabbles and their marriage was realistically portrayed. The affairs were a little over the top, especially Veronica's, she was totally smitten, but of course that truly mattered to the suspension of disbelief on her part. The plot was good, and though I figured out the twist, the writing still propelled me to read until the end. Overall, a good book and one that I recommend.

Blood Upon the Sands (An Evan Davis Tale Book 2) by Sheldon Charles

Blood Upon the Sands by Sheldon Charles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blood Upon The Sands (An Evan Davis Tale Book 2) by Sheldon Charles capitalizes on the author's personal experiences. As a decorated Air Force veteran who has traveled extensively, he infuses his novels with depth and knowledge of foreign lands. This novel is no exception, and as the follow up novel to book one in the series, once again you are in for a treat. Once more, Evan Davis the lead character, a former Air Force officer, who now writes freelance, must face new challenges as he is embedded with Kuwaiti officers to get a better cultural understanding of the region. He is there to build up the nation, to dispel any misconceptions about the area, but of course, encounters much more and becomes involved in a deadly scenario. Great characters, plenty of tension, beautiful descriptions of the region, as well as a solid mystery showcase the author's many writing talents. A gripping novel that moves at a fast pace, yet evokes a mysterious undertone to the area, this novel is highly recommended. Not to be missed, and a great addition to the series.

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Serandes: Corporation City by Frederick S. Blackmon

Serandes: Corporation City by Frederick S. Blackmon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Serandes: Corporation City by Frederick S. Blackmon is such a fun book to read. Right from the start you get the sense of foreboding and trouble coming. The year is 2075. The city is Serandes. The writing is so descriptive, you feel you are there as the author opens the book with a harrowing scene of two men running down an alley. Their backgrounds are fully described, and you feel you know them. Fine writing indeed. This is the world of work, battle, scheme, or be eaten alive, and everyone except the elites must work and work hard. This is the underground, where rivals battle for control and more. A fascinating look at the deterioration of society when its value is based on consumerism, wealth, and corporate power. A rebel force is led by Tatem Montgomery and Shariff McDowell, men who have escaped the corporate culture, and become renegades if only for survival. But of course there is more, as powerful people are hell bent on control of the city. An amazing book that will keep you reading until the end. Looking forward to more from this author. Well done.

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The Rumor by Lesley Kara

The Rumor by Lesley Kara
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Rumor by Lesley Kara takes the domestic thriller to a new level. This is a twisty, sometimes heart wrenching book with well developed characters. Joanne is a single mom in a small town, working as a realtor. When a rumor sprouts up in her small circle of friends, the results are devastating. It involves not only her, but members of her family. Plenty of tension, emotion, and a fast pace make this story very readable. The ending is spot on, and you will likely have to re-read it to make sure you didn't just imagine it. Loved this book from beginning to the end. Highly recommend. Thanks to Netgalley.com for an advance copy.

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Balanced Accountability: 3 Leadership Secrets to Win Hearts and Maximize Performance by Hernani Alves

Balanced Accountability: 3 Leadership Secrets to Win Hearts and Maximize Performance by Hernani Alves
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Balanced Accountability: 3 Leadership Secrets to Win Hearts and Maximize Performance by Hernani Alves is a great business book that captures what leaders need to know and do to motivate their team to help them succeed. The way the book opens with a personal history of how the author's father made him accountable, when Hernani failed to milk cow No. 1 is simply charming, yet very important to the tone and tenor of the book. Accountability is in the forefront, leading to better character, and most importantly taking responsibility for your efforts and actions. Most businesses want an atmosphere with open communication, honest collaboration, low turnover, and maximum performance, but few achieve all of these lofty goals. This book is a road map to achieve those things in your own business, because as the author states, "Because our employees copy us, we need to hold ourselves accountable before we can do the same for them. We need to make ourselves better, so we can lead by example." How you lead affects how your employees perform and follow, whether good or bad. Highly recommend for a fantastic book with a powerful message about leadership and growing a positive organization.

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From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream by Janice S. Ellis

From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream by Janice S. Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From Liberty to Magnolia: In Search of the American Dream by Janice S. Ellis is the author's personal memoir of her life. As an African American woman in the time of the burgeoning civil rights movement, Ellis has a strong tale to tell. From her early days growing up on a farm in Mississippi to becoming a successful business woman, this is an inspirational tale that will inspire and motivate just about anyone. Having witnessed so many injustices, she strove to make the best of her situation, and endeavored to succeed and prosper in spite of the social climate of her past and even today. This is a thought provoking first hand account of what it was like to grow up in the south as a black female. Eye opening and entertaining at once, the level of detail the author provides is astounding. An enjoyable read that is highly recommended for something that will educate and expand your mind.

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Saving Sindia (Samantha Jamison Mystery Book 10) by Peggy A. Edelheit

Saving Sindia by Peggy A. Edelheit
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Saving Sindia (Samantha Jamison Mystery Book 10) by Peggy A. Edelheit is yet another great entry into this fantastic series. Samantha, or Sam, is embroiled in another interesting mystery, as she attempts to get some much needed rest and relaxation. Yet, a retreat to the beach doesn't exactly go as planned for Sam. Instead of relaxing she is compelled to explore the mystery of the Sindia, a shipwrecked sailing ship just off the coast of New Jersey. This story is fast paced, with a strong plot, yet the author manages to convey a deeper sense to Sam, a more reflective nature to the lead character, which truly sets this book apart from the others in the series. Sam is much more contemplative in this story, as she remembers her childhood. That aspect, along with an intriguing historical mystery based on fact makes for fascinating, riveting reading. Edelheit has done it again in creating a story that you can't put down until the end. Highly recommend and certainly looking forward to more from this author.

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Steal His Heart, Save Your Life by Jen Wilding

Steal His Heart, Save Your Life (just not in that order): The "Still-Single" Woman's Guide to the Subconscious Art of Attracting a Man by Jen Wilding
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Steal His Heart, Save Your Life (just not in that order): The "Still-Single" Woman's Guide to the Subconscious Art of Attracting a Man by Jen Wilding showcases the author's varied background and influences. Not only is she an author, she is a personal development coach, and a hypnosis practitioner. She has helped many people get their respective acts together when it comes to living their best lives. In this book, she addresses the need of single women to get it together, focus on themselves, and then look for an appropriate partner. The writing is direct and straightforward, albeit with a sense of humor. Generally speaking the author believes that we attract those who reflect our life. In some ways these relationships exist to teach us a lesson on a spiritual level. Overall, a well written book that covers a lot of ground from making peace with the past to loving without fear. Concrete examples and scenarios fill the book making it easier to recognize your role in relationships as well. Highly recommend for some keen insights into the dating world.

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The Crowlands by T.M. Creedy

The Crowlands by T.M. Creedy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Crowlands by T.M. Creedy solidifies this author's stature in the world of mysteries and ghost stories. Sara is struggling to make ends meet, mostly due to her gambling addiction. That is, until she meets a young woman who needs to rent a room for a few days. A murder, assuming another's identity and ghosts round out this story that pulls you in right from the beginning few pages. The writing is descriptive, there is great scene setting, and the pace of the plot moves along at a good clip. You can't help but root for Sara as she finagles her way into a house-watching job in Australia, while her pockets are full of mysterious cash. A previous incarnation in the house is trying to make itself known, with plenty of mystery and strange happenings. Sara is left alone to figure out what is happening. Just a fantastic book with superb writing and well defined characters, highly recommend and looking forward to more from this author.

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Finger of an Angel by Panayotis Cacoyannis

Finger of an Angel by Panayotis Cacoyannis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finger of an Angel by Panayotis Cacoyannis introduces us to Lily the sixty year old protagonist who goes on a spiritual journey. Blending realism with time travel and mind bending experiences, the author takes us down an interesting road. As Lily shares her sexual encounters in the woods, cavorting with men, drinking her bloody marys and freaking out about flies, we rally behind her to make sense of her life. There is a fine line between fiction and reality in all of our lives, Lily just seems to lurk in the in between spaces more. Maybe this is how she copes with tragic loss that has infused her life. This is mystical and magical writing, the author well versed in keeping the reader on his or her toes. When you think logically things should veer one way in the story, they go another. Wholly unique and a challenging read, this book is highly recommended.

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A Passover in Peshawar (A Charlotte Holmes Mystery Book 2) by AM Sardar

A Passover in Peshawar by AM Sardar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Passover in Peshawar (A Charlotte Holmes Mystery Book 2) by AM Sardar is an elegantly written book that sets the stage nicely for this follow up to the first entry in the series, A Christmas in Calcutta (A Charlotte Holmes Mystery Book 1). As Charlotte Holmes and her would be sidekick Dr. Watan take on a new mystery, they become embroiled in controversy and danger. Not only has Dr. Watan found a new companion in a wife who has a horribly disfigured son, Charlotte has problems of her own. This story is a continuing intriguing amalgamation of the classic detective story featuring
a new kind of Sherlock Holmes with a fun vibe, uniquely formed characters and a fascinating and well rounded mystery. The setting is unusual, the plot is complex, and the characters themselves are both charming and intelligent. Highly recommend this book for a refreshing take on the classic historical British mystery.

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How to save the dragon: Instrument book for teaching impulse control to children by Madeleine Matthews

How to save the dragon: Instrument book for teaching impulse control to children by Madeleine Matthews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

How to save the dragon: Instrument book for teaching impulse control to children by Madeleine Matthews is a useful tool when it comes to teaching children about impulse control. The book revolves around a fictional story with two characters, Wrinkles and Flappy, and describes the differences between acting on impulse and emotion, and using thoughtful reflection to make basic decisions. While this book is geared toward children it may also be useful for adults when guiding their children to make healthy decisions. There are plenty of worksheets toward the back of the book that will help in that endeavor. The illustrations are nicely done and reflect the thoughtfulness put into the book. Some of the content may be too complicated for children to understand, and while imparting a useful and helpful message, a child will certainly need an adult to guide them through this book while discussing its content.

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You got that P.h.D.? by Bobby Marhamat

You got that P.h.D.? by Bobby Marhamat
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You got that P.h.D.? by Bobby Marhamat lays out a plan that will take your business to the next level. With an ample amount of business success behind him, Marhamat knows what he is talking about in this excellent book. He takes the reader through the stages of creating a business plan that actually works. The overall theme of the P.h.D is that you need passion and enthusiasm, hustle with plenty of urgency, and drive which equates to tons of energy. With these three things, you are on your way to success. The author breaks out the book into the following sections: 1-Readiness, 2-Culture,3-Employees, 4-Sales, and 5- Strategy and Adaptability. There are several chapters contained within each section that illustrate perfectly what it takes to scale your business. The point that resonated most with me was that businesses need to hire people who are anxious to learn and who have energy and enthusiasm. However even more important is that the employer creates a culture of appreciation for their employees, including them in the decision making process, giving them some authority, thereby relieving the owner of being overly involved in the day to day operations. Investing in people and technology is critically important to scaling a business, where people can intuitively do their jobs while being creative, and technology can alleviate some of the more mundane tasks inherent in any business. You will return to this book many times to glean more from the wisdom in its pages. Highly recommend.

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I Am Juden: Undercover in the SS by Stephen Uzzell

I Am Juden: Undercover in the SS by Stephen Uzzell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Am Juden: Undercover in the SS by Stephen Uzzell is a superb undertaking by the author, one that distills history into a fictionalized format that pulls the reader in and doesn't let go. A book written taking its inspiration from a real life hero, that of Haim Michael Klar to a fiction character by the name of Jozef Siegler who embodies the spirit of the stalwart and fearless Klar. Jozef assumes the persona of an SS officer, rescuing Jews from concentration camps and horrific conditions. This embodiment is tortuous and emotional but the journey that is relayed in this novel is formidable and relentless, truly depicting the horrors of war, and what one race went through. The human spirit does actually triumph at times, thanks to people like Siegler. The author has obviously done his research well, parlaying his knowledge onto the pages of this at once sad yet redemptive tale. Well done and highly recommended for an immersive historical fiction read.

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Spirit of Gettysburg: Soulmates Across Time by Elizabeth Calvert

Spirit Of Gettysburg: Soulmates Across Time by S. Elizabeth Calvert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Spirit of Gettysburg: Soulmates Across Time by S. Elizabeth Calvert is a great mix of genres that include time travel, romance, and history. The main character Maureen is a psychic who caters to the ladies that lunch in Washington, D.C. Her true calling and focus of her life however, is the love of her life, Confederate soldier Major Clayton Fontaine Douglas. Of course he lives and dies in another century, and this is where the story takes off and is so unique. As Maureen moves on from D.C. to Gettysburg, PA, she must try to free the ghost of Major Douglas so that they can be together again. This seems like an altogether impossible task, but Maureen must try to travel back in time to change the course of history. A fascinating take on historical events wrapped up in a overflowing love story, this book is certainly unique. A great entry into alternative history, this book is highly recommend for something a whole lot of different from your typical historical novel.

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Song of Mornius (The Talenkai Chronicles #1) by Diane E. Steinbach

Song of Mornius by Diane E. Steinbach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Song of Mornius (The Talenkai Chronicles #1) by Diane E. Steinbach is a riveting first entry into this series. If you are looking for the perfect fantasy style story, this book is spot on. With a heady opening scene, the main character Gaelin is covered in blood, and the story gets off to a strong start. As he travels with his staff called Mornius, Gaelin must confront evil at every turn and trust his own wit and cunning. There are elves, gems, and all kinds of interesting characters that give this story depth and interest. Magical creatures and mystical places make this a unique book that is lovingly written by the author. It is up to Gaelin to save the world as he knows it. Along with a great plot line and magic, Steinbach has also kindly provided a map in the beginning of the book to help readers gain some knowledge about the geography of Thalus, setting the stage nicely. A strong recommendation for a magical book.

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Man of the Year by Caroline Louise Walker

Man of the Year by Caroline Louise Walker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Really liked this book, more of a character study than a thriller. Robert is a egotistic character who lies, just like everyone else in his family. However, his introspection added a sense of depth and resonance to the book. When a friend of his son comes to live with Robert and his second wife Elizabeth, things go downhill rapidly. A solid narrative when told through Robert’s eyes, but some chapters didn’t make sense as written; truly secondary characters pitching in to the story, but didn’t add much. A little wordy in spots as well, but with plenty of twists and tormented characters, this is a solid story. Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy.

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One Little Secret by Cate Holahan

One Little Secret by Cate Holahan is a great book that I read in one day. The plot is as follows; a group of three couples go on vacation together, renting a house on the beach. One of them turns up dead on the beach. This is a great whodunit, with a cast of characters that are both real and vulnerable. One of the main themes in the story is domestic violence, and that was depicted well as an underlying part of the story. While the main story line may seem a bit played, with wildly successful people vacationing on the beach, there is a sinister side to this story, that trades on the notion that generally all is not as it appears in most people's lives. People keep secrets and sometimes those secrets are fatal. Fantastic book that kept me reading as the chapters shifted from one character to another, and one time frame to another. Highly recommend. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy.

Tourmaline by Ginger Tran

Tourmaline by Ginger Tran
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tourmaline by Ginger Tran is a beautiful collection of poems that reveal Ginger as a new force to be reckoned with in the world of poetry. From the opening poem:

natural progression

there is always the nothingness
that first comes, first serves.
then the everythingness that blossoms
like microscopic fireworks
if you lean in real closely
to the very tips of things –
like bushes and trees, and the entire
tunneling of known space and time.

We see that Ginger has a real connection to her subject and a way with words that transcends the ordinary. Poetry always reveals much about the psyche of the poet, and this collection is no exception. Ginger has been working on this collection for two years; that patience and care shows in the emotional and revealing work presented here. As her publishing debut, this is a fine putting together of poetry that will stand the test of time. Read this book over and over again to fully engage with, provoke thought, and understand this promising new poet. Highly recommend.



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Magnolia's Violet (Painting Sage) by Rachael K. Hannah

Magnolia's Violet by Rachael K. Hannah
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Magnolia'v Violet (Painting Sage) by Rachael K. Hannah is the perfect coming of age story that follows the lives of three young women, Sage, Kat, and Farrah. They couldn't be more different but the author captures their unique voices quite well as they struggle to enter adulthood in a meaningful way. The sometimes overwhelming city of New York is accurately portrayed through substantive and clever scenes, and reveals the mettle and gumption of each young character. Reflected in this book are also the complications that arise from mental illness and family dysfunction. Sage is an especially well defined character as her bipolar diagnosis neither defines her or slows her down. Family dramas, mental health, career choices, and finding your way in life are the focus here, as Hannah skillfully creates a memorable coming of age story that is both timely and noteworthy. Highly recommend.

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The Translucent Boy and the Girl Who Saw Him by Tom Hoffman

The Translucent Boy and the Girl Who Saw Him by Tom Hoffman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Translucent Boy and the Girl Who Saw Him by Tom Hoffman is magical. A coming of age tale with a bit of time travel, this is quite a unique book. The main character is Odo, and he is translucent, not exactly see-through but almost. He appears to have been born that way, all because his Mom likes peach scented perfume. Weird. He has passed through his young life of about 16 years being basically unseen. That is, until he meets a strange girl with the flaming red hair. This is a great mashup of coming of age, teenage angst, rooting for the quiet kids in class, magic and the metaphysical. A great book that features cool and relatable characters, two formidable young people on a special quest, and the essence of vivid imagination. Time travel rounds out the story, making this tale a wondrous combination of exciting, confounding, and humorous adventures. A strong recommendation for this book, and a great addition to any young person's library.

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The Girl Next Door by Phoebe Morgan

The Girl Next Door by Phoebe Morgan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Girl Next Door is a twisty and twisted read by Phoebe Morgan. There is a palpable sense of tension in this book, after the initial crime takes place. You start to wonder who you can trust. It's all about the facades that people and communities assume. But you never really know what goes on behind closed doors, and just how desperate some situations are. The characters are all well developed, some not so likable, but that makes them all the more realistic. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, became immersed in the plot, and only had a slight inkling as to who the murderer was. Evil truly exists in this tale, making it a delectable and un-putdownable read. Highly recommend. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

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Dead God of Holdrege Valley by R.P. Wood

Dead God of Holdrege Valley by R.P. Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dead God of Holdrege Valley by R.P. Wood showcases the author's writing talents when it comes to spooky stuff. With the opening pages you feel the tension and unease that permeates this story. A traveling journalist by the name of Brandon Caulfield has pulled a disappearing act while on assignment in the quiet village of Holdrege Valley. No one seems to think that Brandon is in trouble however, except for his best friend Sawyer, and his search if where the action and fun begins. As a debut novel, it doesn't get much better than this, as the author delves into the unknown with a religious cult and it's presence in a sleep little town. The tone and tempo of this book keep you interested and engaged, the dialogue is realistic, the setting is scary, and the plot moves along nicely. Overall, a fun and scary read, guaranteed to keep you up at night. Highly recommend for a fantastic debut horror novel.

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To Dream the Blackbane by Richard J. O'Brien

To Dream the Blackbane by Richard J. O'Brien
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Richard J. O'Brien kindly includes a prologue in his book, To Dream the Blackbane: A Novel of the Anomaly. This prologue gives an extensive overview of the Anomaly itself, how it happened, how the world was partially cut off, and the resulting bizarre hybrid creatures that came to be. This sets the stage for a unique story, one that features a hard boiled private detective who is a former cop. Wolfgang Rex is a second generation hybrid, a mix of dog and man, and if you can get past that permutation, you can delve into this book. The strange creatures, from gargoyles to fairies become downright believable and still retain human qualities. What transpires though is a great story full of mystery, vampires, stolen scrolls and much more. To say this book is unique is an understatement, but the author pulls off the impossible, imbuing the plot with nuance and subtlety in a crazy package. If you are looking for something a little different when it comes to characters, this is the book for you. Great urban fantasy, this tale is highly recommended.

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The Shadow Girl by Misty Mount

The Shadow Girl by Misty Mount
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As most teenagers experience some level of discontent and angst, so does Zylia in The Shadow Girl by Misty Mount. Except Zylia does it to the extreme, leaving this world for another one, seemingly disappearing at times. The story opens with a young Zylia, just 6 years old, going to the park with her Grandmother, and her two a little bit older siblings. The kids play "house", and when the playtime is over, they leave the park. But Zylia seems to have been left behind, or that is what she thinks. This scene opens up the book nicely, and sets the tone for the rest of the book, as Zylia, now 13, must come to terms with the fact that she is indeed a little different. The author does a great job of setting scenes, you feel you are there experiencing them with the characters, and the characters themselves are well drawn and highly relatable. There is an intriguing mystery contained within these pages as well that moves along the plot, as the other world that Zylia is part of is slowly revealed. The author has created a believable fantasy world, one that serves as a potent reminder that many of us need to escape the real world from time to time. Highly recommend read from this excellent writer.

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The 19th Bladesman by S. J. Hartland

The 19th Bladesman by S.J. Hartland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The 19th Bladesman (Shadow Sword series Book 1) by S. J. Hartland is the author's first book, but don't let that deter you from reading this gem. This is a fantastic fantasy book with sorcery, magic, and a certain darkness. The characters are deep and sometimes hard to relate to, but perhaps that is part of the story building process here. It's hard to know who is a bad guy vs. who is a good character. They are all intriguing however. The names are great as well, Vraymorg, Rozzen, Kaell, among others. Nonetheless the author has built a compelling fantasy world, and pulls you in right from the start. There are a lot of elements here from battles and spies, to mysticism and various secrets. Battles galore, castles, and everything else you can imagine inhabit this complex book. Perhaps a list of characters in the front of the book would be helpful so that the reader could keep track of things would be helpful. Otherwise, a solid entry into the fantasy genre. Highly recommend.

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Brewer's Odyssey by Michael Corrigan

Brewer's Odyssey by Michael Corrigan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brewer's Odyssey by Michael Corrigan showcases the author's uncanny ability to transport the reader to a different place in a magical way. Mystical happenings, dead writers, and even ghosts populate this well written metaphysical thriller as we go along with Thomas Brewer on his various escapades. The settings, as well the descriptions all create a wonderful sense of place, a little spooky and mysterious all at once. Thomas Brewer is just 40, but finds himself in the middle of what seems to be a plot much like the novels he writes, his life has certainly gotten interesting of late. When his dreams foretell of a tragedy, he simply must pay attention. This in turn leads to a tangled tale, one of terrorists plots, ex-lovers, and even revenge. There is much to absorb in this book, but it is all nicely put together in a captivating package that renders its characters with realism, and moves along with a rapid pace and solid plot. Highly recommend for a great read.

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The Day Before You Came by Martin Freiner

The Day Before You Came by Martin Freiner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Day Before You Came: Bad Choices Make Good Stories by Martin Freiner is not for the fainthearted. This is not a whimsical retelling of a young man's youth. This is a grab you by the throat, force you to read the underbelly of society, with all of its flaws, evils, and torments kind of book. As a dark anthology of stories, the reader is exposed to the inner workings of the author's brain, and this book is the resulting memoir, albeit written in a seemingly messy fiction kind of way. There is simply nothing redeeming or positive in this rendering, however, that is part of the appeal. Dark and disturbing, Feiner creates worlds that on the surface seem implausible, but yet apparently these worlds and situations happened. They do exist, even if only on the periphery of society. Not for the meek or timid, with a ton of graphic sex and brutality, this book is recommended for something a whole lot of different, if you are up for it.

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From Frights to Flaws, 2nd Edition (Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions Book 1) by Sunayna Prasad

From Frights to Flaws, 2nd Edition by Sunayna Prasad
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From Frights to Flaws, 2nd Edition (Alyssa McCarthy's Magical Missions Book 1) by Sunayna Prasad is a great book geared toward young girls who are coming of age. Alyssa McCarthy is just that age, and after having recently lost both of her parents, now must live with her uncle. Her sister Hailey lives there as well. Mrs. Hutchinson is the annoying babysitter for the girls and is a tyrant who examines their every move. Life for Alyssa is one chore after another, until she sees a magical message written in the rain. Soon she is receiving more anonymous messages, telling her of mysterious things. Before long, Alyssa is kidnapped and taken away to a magical island by a sorcerer. Talk about something exciting happening for Alyssa, finally! This is a fine example of a fantasy style book written in such a way that it will appeal to young girls in search of adventure and some fun. Great story filled with magic and suspense. Highly recommend for the youngish teen crowd.

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