Showing posts with label Must Read Fiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Must Read Fiction. Show all posts

2/8/24

Ghosters by Diana Corbitt - Book Review

Ghosters by Diana Corbitt
Synopsis:
One day, Theresa’s mom dies.
The next, money problems force her family out of their home.
Life has definitely taken a downward turn for the twelve-year-old. But then she meets Kerry, and their friendship quickly grows.
Although obsessed with the paranormal, Kerry has never seen a real ghost. But when she hears how the powdered sugar Theresa had been combing the kitchen to find just magically flopped out of the cupboard she’d already looked in three times, she proposes they solve both their problems by entering the Ghosters video contest.
And why not?
Kerry has the ghost hunting equipment, and after seeing the dining room curtains close in front of them, Theresa and her autistic brother, Joey, know their new house is definitely haunted.
So, we’ve got three kids exploring a creepy old mansion. What could happen?
A lot.
That’s just the beginning of this paranormal mystery series.
Ghosters by Diana Corbitt is an entertaining, suspenseful, creepy and engaging mystery and ghost story that children will revel in and, be unable to put down. The story follows a young girl, Theresa, whose mother has recently passed away. Along with her autistic brother, Joey, they are forced to move into their deceased grandparent’s ancient, huge and boring house. The neighbors believe the house to be haunted, but the kids don’t believe in ghosts. They are disheartened by their situation. That is until, things take a turn when Theresa meets a new friend, Kerry. And, Kerry does believe in ghosts, and has accumulated much ghost hunting equipment. When creepy unsound occurrences begin to happen in the old house, the kids decide to enter the Ghosters video contest. That’s when they start to discover that this old house is not that boring and could really be haunted after all. What ensues is a suspenseful, chilling and eye-opening adventure for these three kids.
Ghosters by Diana Corbitt is a fantastic, suspenseful read for children that love the paranormal and ghosts. It is well written, easy to read and flows nicely. It explores the hardships of losing a parent, childhood struggles, the difficulties, beauty and importance of friendship and autism. This book is intended for children ages 9-12 and grades 4-7, but as an adult, I found it to be fun, engrossing and overwhelmingly entertaining.
Ghosters is thought provoking, humorous and captivating, as well. With surprises around every corner, these three kids are on quite a journey and adventure. It is an exciting tale about ghosts, mystery, friendship and adventure. There are family secrets to be discovered, along with self-discovery. This book held me mesmerized from the first chapter to the very satisfying end that has a shocking twist. I was always intrigued and wanting to know what I would discover next. What would happen next? What would the children find next? What will happen to them? Ghosters by Diana Corbitt is definitely one of the best children’s mystery, suspense and paranormal books I have ever read. It is so much more than just a ghost story. Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends it. Children will love it. Get your child a copy, you won’t be disappointed and they will certainly be delighted.
Purchase Ghosters by Diana Corbitt today!



6/5/23

They Called Him Marvin: A History of Love, War and Family by Roger Stark

They Called Him Marvin: A History of Love, War and Family by Roger Stark

"They were the fathers we never knew, the uncles we never met, the friends who never returned, the heroes we can never repay. They gave us our world. And those simple sounds of freedom we hear today are their voices speaking to us across the years." Bill Clinton


Such a man was 1st Lt Dean Harold Sherman, B-29 Airplane Commander.

“They Called Him Marvin” is a history. A history of war and of family. A history of the collision of the raging politics of a global war, young love, patriotism, sacred family commitments, duty and the horrors and tragedies, the catastrophe that war is.

A reviewer explains: "I am a fan of historical fiction and this story did not disappoint. It was sweet, tragic, personal, and moving. Gradually and almost imperceptibly, the story of two wartime sweethearts begins circling the drain of a tragedy you know is coming. The book begins with the ending, but by the time you get there you have convinced yourself that it can't possibly be the case. I enjoyed every moment, even the ones that left me in tears.

The letters between Connie and Dean provided a fascinating glimpse into wartime life. Reading the experiences of people both at home and abroad was very engaging. I found myself eagerly awaiting the next letter, right along with the young couple!

Lastly, the book left me with an overwhelming acknowledgement of the universal trauma and tragedy of war. The Sherman’s are not the only family we meet in the book and the weaving together of several different narratives added a depth to the story that's hard to put into words.
I definitely encourage anyone to read this book, especially if historical novels are not something you typically read. This is a story about people and you won't want it to end.


Grab your copy of "They Called Him Marvin: A History of Love, War and Family by Roger Stark today!


7/9/19

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.
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!

1/24/19

Beyond the Fall by Diane Scott Lewis - Book Review

Beyond the Fall by Diane Scott Lewis
Synopsis:
Tamara Ledbetter, dumped by her arrogant husband, travels to Cornwall, England, to research her ancestors. A trip first planned with her soon-to-be ex. While in a neglected cemetery, she scrapes two fallen headstones together to read what’s beneath, faints, and awakes in 1789. Certain she’s caught in a reenactment, she fast discovers she’s in the year of the French Revolution, grain riots in England, miners out of work, and she’s mistrusted by the young farmer, Colum Polwhele, who’s come to her aid. Can a sassy San Francisco gal survive in this primitive time where women have few rights? Could she fall for Colum, a man active in underhanded dealings that involve stolen grain, or will she struggle to return to her own time before danger stalks them both?
Beyond the Fall by Diane Scott Lewis is a fabulous and compelling, time-travel, romance story that readers will revel in. The story follows Tamara Ledbetter who lives in San Francisco and has just gone through a troublesome divorce. She goes to a cemetery in Cornwall, England, to research her ancestors. While there, she rubs two collapsed headstones together and then passes out. Suddenly, she awakes to find herself in 1789 during the French Revolution. A handsome farmer, Colum Polwhele, shows up to help her. He thinks she is a spy, but he isn’t all that trustful himself, as he is a thief and deals in robbing grain. Can this modern woman live in such a primitive setting without all the contemporary amenities that she took for granted? Or will love prevail?
Beyond the Fall is filled with twists and turns as Tamara’s life grows more and more complicated. While danger lurks, she must learn to survive it all, in a time and place that is foreign to her. This story is captivating and full of eye-opening surprises as author, Diane Scott Lewis, weaves a tale that is compelling and engaging. The historical aspects are well researched, written and brilliantly assessed. She takes readers on an adventurous journey as they follow the life of the main character, Tamara Ledbetter. The character development is skillful and impressive. They are well developed with interesting personalities that readers will immediately connect with and relate to. I was intrigued by Tamara’s predicament and whether she would be able to conform to life in 1789, Cornwall, England, or return to her modern day life that she was so used to.
Beyond the Fall is a multidimensional story that all sorts of readers will certainly enjoy. The descriptive writing is fabulous and had me on the scene feeling like I was actually there in England during the French Revolution, the grain riots and the miners that were out of work. The clothing and settings are clearly and vividly described and I was very captivated with it all. I couldn’t put this book down and turned the pages quickly and late into the night. This book will be a favorite for time-travel, romance enthusiasts and Chick Lit CafĂ© highly recommends it. It is an original work of fiction written with a unique and extraordinary voice. Diane Scott Lewis is an exceptional writer and I am eagerly looking forward to reading more of her amazing books.
Purchase Beyond the Fall by Diane Scott Lewis @Amazon Here

1/4/19

Earth Quarantined by D.L. Richardson - Book Review

Earth Quarantined (Earth Quarantined Book 1) by D.L. Richardson
Synopsis:
When the virus which killed millions of people is gone, humanity lives in a planet-wide quarantine enforced by an alien species.
The year is 2355. The deadly virus that killed millions of people is gone, thanks to the quarantine measures put in place by the Criterion, an alien species who appeared just in time to save the human race. In exchange for complying with their tough control measures, the Criterion promised us the technology for interstellar travel. We’ve done all they’ve asked, yet we’re still on Earth with no way of getting into deep space. The Criterion are lying to us. What they don’t know is that we’re lying to them…
Kethryn Miller is an award-winning actress, but nothing will prepare her for the role she’ll take on when a strange woman who shouldn’t be alive turns up in the city, threatening to expose the lies that have kept peace on Earth for 200 years.
Earth Quarantined is book one in the Earth Quarantined trilogy
Earth Arrested – Book 2 is coming soon
Earth Reclaimed – Book 3 is coming soon
Earth Quarantined by D. L. Richardson is a fantastic futuristic science fiction novel that is filled with twists and turns and will have readers turning the pages quickly in anticipation while being totally enthralled and entertained.
A deadly virus kills millions of humans, but is now gone thanks to the intervention of the Criterion, an alien race that set up a system and quarantined the entire planet. They promised to give their secret into interstellar planet travel, but after years have passed, they have failed to keep their intended promise. The Criterion continued to stay and control the planet and kept people in colonized segments know as states. They stayed to help rebuild the planet and keep peace among the population. They also put restraints upon the humans to control the population.  Because of these strict measures of intervention and control, many people live underground in secret cities where they are working on a solution to getting humans off the earth and into space. What follows is an exciting story filled with action as the benevolent Criterion and the humans fight to achieve their own specific agendas. The secret contact between the groups of separated people, how they sometimes work together, and their independent struggles on how they deal with the alien rulers, is what drives the plot and story forward.
Earth Quarantined is an outstanding story that science fiction lovers will revel in. The world building is extraordinary with descriptive writing that shines through on every page. The characters are both realistic and relatable. I really felt for the woman that was intended to be the nominal leader for the human race and her inevitable struggles. Readers will be rooting for certain characters at one moment, then doubting them the next. The characterization of the aliens is enthralling and complete. There is nothing missing in this thrilling story. This makes for great storytelling.
Earth Quarantined is unpredictable and extremely engaging. I was fully captivated by the futuristic world that D.L. Richardson has creatively built. The premise and plot are deep and resound with intrigue and fascination. Readers will find Earth Quarantined to be compelling, thought provoking and gripping. The conclusion is outstanding, came as a surprise and is left open for a sequel. Chick Lit Cafe highly recommends Earth Quarantined by D. L. Richardson. Get yourself a copy of this must read one-of-a-kind science fiction novel.
Purchase Earth Quarantined by D.L. Richardson @Amazon Here

11/9/18

Fresh off the Starship by Ann Crawford - Book Review

Fresh off the Starship by Ann Crawford
Synopsis:
Wrong place, right time? A starbeing was supposed to travel light-years across the universe to help humanity by working in Washington, D.C.–but she accidentally lands in a small Kansas town in the body of Missy. Join her on this whimsical journey as she discovers the beauty of life and love on Earth.
Author Ann Crawford’s trademark optimism brings us a witty and wise book filled with memorable characters and insights into what makes us all so very human.
Fresh off the Starship is a wonderful and fun chick lit style book with a spin on science fiction.
Missy, a young woman is not human, but instead she is a glorious being from a distant galaxy light years away. From Andromeda, she is headed to earth-to be precise-to aid humans and the people of earth in whatever way she can. However, her ship takes a turn and she winds up in Kansas instead. As she is waking up, she can hear the voices of the humans talking to her. But, the voices sound so strange to her and not like the English she had learned in her studies. She is in Kansas now and they definitely speak with an accent. Instead of reaching humans on a grander degree, Missy is now stuck in Kansas living life like a human. She is determined to complete her assignment even though she is in small-town Kansas. Readers follow Missy on her adventure to help humanity discover the beauty of nature and the world around us.
Fresh off the Starship by Ann Crawford is a light, warm-hearted book that readers will revel in and certainly appreciate. It is highly entertaining and full of wit and charm. It is intelligent and fun at the same time. It is written with a clear concise voice with a message that we humans need to hear. I was fully engaged from the very first chapter, as this book grabbed me and wouldn’t let go.
This honestly is a beautiful story from an extremely gifted writer. With fluently penned prose and a captivating romantic storyline and plot, Ann Crawford gives readers a one of a kind tale. We have a strong, rather bewildered heroine to be inspired by and a cast full of colorful characters. They are well developed and fleshed out with strengths and weaknesses we all can relate to. I loved Missy-she is a genuine character who had me thinking, making this a very thought-provoking book. Readers are reminded that life is beautiful and much more brilliant than we perceive.
I thoroughly enjoyed Fresh off the Starship and savored every word. Ann Crawford aptly has a flair for writing descriptive words that put the reader right on the scene, watching on as the story unfolds. I could visualize the entire setting and Missy’s unique take on things. This is a book that I would highly recommend to lovers of chick lit, science fiction, adventure and even fantasy lovers. The compelling ending is wonderful and completely satisfying.
Praise for Fresh off the Starship, a page turner and one of the best books I have read in a long time. Pick up your copy and be delighted and inspired.
Reviewed by Artisan Book Reviews
Purchase Fresh off the Starship by Ann Crawford @Amazon Here

11/8/18

Immortals’ Requiem - Vincent Bobbe - Book Review

Immortals’ Requiem by Vincent Bobbe
Grimdark Fantasy: Speculative fiction
There are beings that live a shadow’s breadth from our reality…
They are the dreams and nightmares of humanity, the ancient seeds of fairy-tale and superstition. These are the Immortals, creatures of magic that should live forever… and they are fading.
When a horror two thousand years dead returns to contemporary England, creatures long thought lost to myth and legend collide in a scramble for survival that could tumble civilization back into the dark ages of blood and death.
Immortals’ Requiem is a Tolkienesque grimdark fantasy based in both a modern day city and vast supernatural worlds. If you like the idea of a drunken elf with a shotgun, an ancient warrior with a chainsaw and a whole host of violent supernatural beings you’ll love this gritty Amazon Number 1 Bestseller.
Buy Immortals’ Requiem to lose yourself in this epic award winning dark fantasy adventure today!
Immortals’ Requiem by Vincent Bobbe is a wild fantastical ride in a horrific setting filled with creatures made of nightmares. This is a story that is so terrifying that I could barely read it, and definitely couldn’t put it down. The characters in this book range from mortals to monsters of every kind. They are immortals waging war against one another and it is one scary battle. Characters are being killed off and blood is everywhere.
There are several plot lines that come together like an intricate puzzle. It flows nicely, is easy to follow along and keep up with the pace – which is extremely fast. Told in the third person of the different creatures, I found it to be extraordinary that the author could pull it off the way he did. This book is not for the faint of heart. It is perfect for those that love great storytelling coupled with dark minded, frightening creatures that are relentless and blood thirsty.
The world building in this otherworldly book is nothing less than brilliant. Vincent Bobbe has created vivid scenes, situations and locations full of supernatural beings, vampires, elves, shapeshifters, fairies, zombies, giants, etc. He has taken the fae world and put it all into one outstanding book. I felt like I was there watching on as the story unfolded. His descriptive writing had me on the scene, and Immortals’ Requiem is unlike anything I have ever read.
With a hand full of major characters, we follow along as the story unfolds in modern day England. The characters are complex and well developed. For a dark fantasy, they are extremely believable and realistic. Because of the masterful way this book is written, the entire story is believable and realistic. The characters are not without emotion, and the book brought up feelings that were relatable to me. It is a violent and graphic novel with an original premise and idea. Vincent Bobbe has won this reader over and Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends Immortals’ Requiem by Vincent Bobbe to all lovers of grimdark fantasy and horror.
Purchase Immortals’ Requiem @Amazon Here

10/31/18

Knights After My Heart by Sonya Jesus - Book Review

Knights After My Heart by Sonya Jesus
Synopsis
Amelia’s past issues and personal time limits propel her into a relationship that alters her normal life at Westbrook University. Connor, her new potential boyfriend, triggers jealousy, rehashes old relationships, sparks new ones, and ignites a rage in others that will devastate her ordinary life. As she desperately tries to hold on to her pre-Connor life, she struggles to balance the new-found attention while trying to follow her heart. Something she realizes is complicated… very complicated – because her heart has no idea where it’s going.
Connor may be the change Lia is looking for, but he is certainly not the ending Hawk wants for his Queen. Hawk’s invested too much time in planning his future to let some random guy walk away with his happily ever after. He will do anything to protect her virtue, even if it means protecting her from herself because Amelia belongs to him.
He’s chosen her…
He’s watched her…
He’s studied her…
He knows everything there is to learn about her…
And when the time is right she will reign his heart.
Knights After My Heart by Sonya Jesus is an intriguing young adult book filled with twists and turns. The main character of the book is Amelia. Amelia has not had much success in the way of relationships.
But she has a prospective new boyfriend, Connor, who has been after her to be his girlfriend. She is somewhat reluctant and has always had a habit of shutting herself down when it comes to the men in her life when things get confining. The problem with Amelia accepting Connor as her boyfriend is complicated. It brings up issues of jealousy, past relationships, it brings on new ones, and sparks anger in others that could ruin her everyday life.
As a college student at Westbrook University and the possibility of a new boyfriend, Amelia has a lot going for her. But things are not that simple for this young women. And if she knew that a guy named Hawk, has beenstalking her, she would really be over the top devastated. Hawk wants Amelia to be his queen. He knows everything about her and has been studying her intently. Amelia’s best friend, Robins, is the ultimate friend and the guy that the girls all want to be with. Amelia is popular and seems to have it all. But, to what extent will Hawk go to in order to make Amelia his queen?
Knights After My Heart is one wild ride. It is a romantic mystery filled with fascinating characters and interesting plot twists. I couldn’t put it down and devoured it to the very last page, which was a cliffhanger, causing me to want to quickly get the next book in the series in my hands. With the appealing descriptions and activity of college life, all readers will love to reminisce and dream about college life. This is such an entertaining, beguiling, and riveting sexy story. Perfectly crafted with powerful believable characters.
The wonderful descriptive writing put me right on the scene watching on as the story unfolded. I could see and feel the emotions and relate to what the characters were going through.
The romance in this book is also unique and there is an unexpected twist in the form of a love triangle of sorts. This book is full of mystery with suspicious behavior making it an enthralling suspenseful novel to revel in and be startled by. I became unnerved on many occasions and was stricken speechless.
The characters are fabulous and well developed with strengths, flaws and attitudes. They are relatable and likable except for the questionable and somewhat creepy guy, Hawk. The story is told in two POV’s, Amelia’s and Hawk’s. It works well with in the storyline and flows seamlessly. I was fully impressed by the way Sonja Jesus wrote the dialogue between the characters. She has a unique original voice that resounds on every page. I am definitely going to read more from author Sonya Jesus. Chick Lit Cafe highly recommends Knights After My Heart by Sonya Jesus
Purchase Knights After My Heart @Amazon Here

10/12/18

Speaking in Tungs by Karla Jay - Book Review

Speaking in Tungs by Karla Jay
Synopsis:
2018 Florida Authors and Publishers Association (FAPA) President’s Award in Humor and Chic Lit! In this entertaining first novel set in rural Pennsylvania, a young woman from San Francisco searches for her birth parents while beginning her first job as a home-health speech pathologist. She soon learns how hard one job can be as she navigates the backwoods of Tungston, (“Tungs”) trying to comply with the needs of her quirky patients, all the while being stalked by a violent fugitive, and finding herself unexpectedly falling for the charms of a small-town, including one hot fireman. Through no fault of her own, she exposes a criminal who has been safely hidden in the thick forest, and now as he tries to stop her from exposing him, her patients’ lives, as well as her own are in jeopardy.
After the death of her parents, Marleigh Benning, a young woman with a degree in speech pathology, discovers that she was adopted. She decides to search for her birth parents and takes an internship as a home health speech therapist. But, she soon realizes that her job isn’t going to be easy, as she traverses through the backcountry of Tungston, Pennsylvania. As she tries to meet the needs and deal with her quirky unusual patients, she is definitely out of her element in this rural town, being from San Francisco, California, she is miles away from home and in a completely different societal setting. However, she begins to not only fall for the town of Tungston, but also for a hot fireman. She also finds herself and her patients in danger, as she is being stalked by a hardened and vicious escapee that she has unintentionally exposed.
Speaking in Tungs by Karla Jay is an intriguing engaging story that follows the life of one young woman who finds herself in a part of the country that she is totally unfamiliar with. There are dirt roads, peculiar small town stores and residents that are completely different than what she is used to from living in the west. Marleigh is dependable and reliable, intelligent and very likable. She is attracted to the fireman and feeling very passionate. She is out of place but determined to be a part of the community and make her life work in this foreign place she now calls home. This is a hilarious story with emotional moments that will touch every reader’s heart.
Speaking in Tungs is a heartwarming story filled with twists and turns and bold unusual, yet realistic characters. This story has a very different premise with a speech therapist going to live, work and fall in love in a pastoral setting in Pennsylvania. It is a multi-genre piece. It’s a romance, a mystery, a laugh out loud humorous chick lit read and a lightly suspenseful novel. The characters in this fabulous book are quirky, colorful and well developed. They humored me and had me thinking that I would love to know them in person. I found myself being drawn towards them and really caring about them. I love it when a book has me really desiring to know the people and be a part of their lives and live where they live.
Karla Jay has an exciting unique voice and a way with words that draws the reader in from the very first chapter. Even the title of this book gives readers insight into her distinctive creative play on words. She grew up in the area that is the setting of the book and mixes facts with fiction well. Her descriptive writing is filled vivid scenes of the landscapes and woods and had me craving to visit that part of the country and to behold the beauty of the land with its lush green countryside that she often describes in her story.
Speaking in Tungs had me completely hooked from the very beginning to the final last satisfying page. It is one of the best novels that I have read in a long time. This was Karla Jay’s debut novel and she has written more since then. I will definitely be picking up and reading the sequel to this book entitled “Speaking of the Devil.” Chick Lit CafĂ© highly recommends Speaking in Tungs to all readers.
Purchase book @Amazon here.

9/17/18

The Revelation: Rise of the Fallen by David Salvi

The Revelation: Rise of the Fallen by David Salvi
Synopsis:
The war has started. Michael and Gabriel must find the other two archangels. Evan, the world’s richest man, is revealed as the Antichrist with armies of evil and beasts of the apocalypse at his command to decimate the world. Lies and deceit put Evan on the world stage before his horrific plots unfold. Michael and his angels must stop them. And somewhere the holy family is hiding, and waiting for their guardian angel to save them. This is an action-packed thriller from beginning to end! Part 2 of The Revelation series by David Salvi doesn’t disappoint!
The Revelation: Rise of the Fallen by David Salvi is Book 2 in The Revelation book series. The story follows archangels Michael and Gabriel whose mission is to stop the world’s wealthiest person, Evan, (aka the Antichrist) in his determination to bring about the downfall of the earth. His plan? To bring about the destruction of the digital age and all its appurtenances and watch the world literally grind to a halt and cease to function. Evan is narcissistic and indomitable and he commands his legions and evil beings to assist him with no care for the lives of those who get in his way. He cares not whether child, man, woman, family or powerful ruler; Evan will let no earthly man prevent him from achieving his goal.
Enter the ethereal superheroes, Gabriel and Michael, who together with Uriel and Raphael engage in a fight that is not only the quintessential fight of good against evil, but the very essence of civilization depends on their success. Michael appears as a somewhat reluctant archangel at times, tortured by concern for his human family and his child Joshua, who is more than just an ordinary child. But his faith that God will protect them gives the assurance he needs to continue his mission. Gabriel is steadfast and dependable and where he needs to be, which is at Michael’s side.
The Revelation is an amazing piece of writing. The author, David Salvi, has developed a perfect ‘voice’ for this battle between heaven and hell, between good and evil, and between all that is right and all that is wrong. The writing is strong and confident and believable, and each main character has the reader totally hooked. I have not had the benefit of reading Book One in this series, but this did not detract from enjoying Book Two and now looking forward with great expectation to Book Three.
The Revelation: Rise of the Fallen by David Salvi  has quite an impact on the reader. Not only is it disturbing from the point of view of the gullibility and susceptibility portrayed in world leaders whose role one would expect is to protect those who have elected them, but in the sheer complete callousness of Evan as the Antichrist. One cannot help but compare the scenario created by David Salvi to the state of our world today, to its reliability on technology, and the power of a deceitful smile.
This book is a credit to a writer who is clearly a craftsman of the written word. A memorable book that will have every reader turning to their Bible for reassurance that all is well with the world.
Reviewed by Jane Finch for Chick Lit Cafe
Purchase The Revelation by David Salvi @Amazon Here

8/30/18

Into the Lyons Den by Donni De-Ville

Into the Lyons Den by Donni De-Ville
Synopsis:
Story set in England, based on some exaggerated true life events and emotional experiences of the author.
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Instead of a flowery romance, Viv, the main character, encounters far more than she could ever have bargained for, or deserved. The reader will go through all the gamut of emotions with the 3D characters, and enjoy the strong story-line all the way through the book. The ending is un-anticipated and you would have to be made of stone not to be deeply moved.
Viv, still heartbroken about Lawrence, a man whom she fell deeply for previously, is still getting over a nasty divorce from the man she married to get over the memory. She becomes a member of a dating agency, when her pent up emotions rise, as she becomes attracted to the owner of the agency. Viv then falls for two very different men. One who fills a woman’s every desire, but in choosing him, life would become as dangerous as walking a tightrope. The other man depicts total stability and a wholesome ruggedness, but without the erotic excitement. Vic’s separate world’s eventually square up with shocking consequences.
With a sinister thread causing havoc in the lives of most of the characters, crime, murder and mystery runs throughout the action-filled story.  Clues are given and each chapter’s ending has a cliff hanger, making it difficult to stop reading.
Men can also relate to this sensual, sexual romance in ways which can help them learn more about the intricacies of the female mind.  The characters individually take the reader on an emotional journey, which probably the reader has never experienced before, invoking feelings and thoughts they will think deeply about.
Should some of these scenarios play-out into the real world, (as have occurred with the author) the climatic twist would be similar to the ending of this story.
An unusual and unique, exciting story the reader who loves thrillers will want to share with others and a story never to be forgotten.
by Donni De-Ville @Amazon  https://donnideville.com 
Into the Lyons Den by Donni De-Ville is an exciting, racy novel filled with raw emotion and a thrilling, unexpected storyline. The story is about Viv, a beautiful woman who is remembering her first love and the intense passion she felt with him. She had made the decision to part with Lawrence due to her own fears and inability to trust. Unable to shake him from her thoughts and mind, she decides to take action and look for a new man that she can love and spend her life with. She stumbles across a dating agency entitled “The Dandy Lyons Marriage Agency.” She reluctantly makes the decision to visit the agency and sign up. What Viv doesn’t know is that her life is about to be turned into a rollercoaster of turmoil and upheaval.
This is a story based on the true life events of author, Donni De-Ville. It is compelling, thrilling and engaging. There is a lot going on in this story including, kidnapping, murder and many crazy scenarios. I couldn’t put this book down. From the very first chapter I was completely drawn into the life of Viv and all the things that she goes through. She encounters many different types of men and interesting people along the way. First, we meet the Lyons, the owners of the upper-class dating agency. While at a party with them, a murder occurs. Viv and her new friend begin to help clear the main suspect and she ends up getting more than she ever bargained for.
Throughout her journey, Viv, meets many unlikely characters including a transgender, an exuberant detective, a baron and many other, seemingly, questionable people. All the while a serial killer is lurking in the shadows. This is all a big change for Viv who works in an ordinary office in London. Her life has been turned upside down and she is on a thrilling, dangerous adventure.
This book is about crime, sex, lust, murder, romance and mystery. It is filled with twists and turns and at the end of each chapter readers are left hanging and hungering for more. It is the story of one woman’s desire to find a lasting true love and all the crazy things she goes through with the people she meets along the way.
Into the Lyons Den is fast-paced and action filled. Readers will be taken on an unbelievable ride of murder, madness and crime. There are tender emotional moments and some laughs along the way.
The characters and settings are beautifully described causing this reader to feel like I was right there watching on. It is written intelligently and extremely well. The author, Donni De-Ville, has a unique, crisp voice with a writing style that is very professional and appealing.
She has brilliantly woven a one-of-a-kind story with a solid plot and a conclusion that, I didn’t see coming, but is completely satisfying and exciting.
This book is a definite must read. Not only because it is based on a true life story, but because it is completely different from anything I have ever read. It is filled with intrigue and has the most interesting storyline, plot, characters and conclusion. It really touched me to my core, bringing up feelings and thoughts that are new to me. Chick Lit Cafe highly recommends Into the Lyons Den to all readers that are looking for a story to escape into that is realistic, engaging and shocking at the same time. Expect the unexpected. Unforgettable!
Purchase Into The Lyons Den by Donni De-Ville @Amazon

5/12/18

Gallowglass by Jennifer Allis Provost

Gallowglass series book one by Jennifer Allis Provost
Synopsis:
Karina didn’t set out to free the Seelie Queen’s gallowglass. Now she’ll do anything to keep him.
After Karina and her brother, Chris’s, lives fall apart in separate yet equally spectacular ways, they leave New York behind and head to the UK. Karina buries herself in research for her doctoral thesis, all the while studiously not thinking about the man who broke her heart, while Chris—who’d been a best-selling author before his ex-fiancĂ©e sued him for plagiarism—drinks his way across the British Isles.
In Scotland, they visit the grave of Robert Kirk, a seventeenth- century minister who was kidnapped by fairies. No one is more shocked than Karina when a handsome man with a Scottish brogue appears, claiming to be the Robert Kirk of legend. What’s more, he says he spent the last few hundred years as the Gallowglass, the Seelie Queen’s personal assassin. When they’re attacked by demons, Karina understands how dearly the queen wants him back.
As Karina and Robert grow closer, Chris’s attempts to drown his sorrows lead him to a pub, and a woman called Sorcha. Chris is instantly smitten with her, so much so he spends days with Sorcha and lies to his sister about his whereabouts. When Chris comes home covered in fey kisses, Karina realizes that the Seelie Queen isn’t just after Robert.
Can Karina outsmart the Seelie Queen, or is Robert doomed to forever be the Gallowglass?
Karina and her brother Chris live in New York where they both experience loss and their lives begin to fall apart. Then, Karina receives a grant to work on her doctoral thesis in Scotland. So they both travel to Scotland where their lives change forever. Scotland is full of beauty and intrigue. It’s here where Karina and Chris experience much more than they could have dreamed of. The magic of Scotland becomes much more than a place for Karina’s doctoral thesis.
While Karina and Chris are visiting the grave of Robert Kirk, a seventeenth- century minister who was abducted by fairies. Suddenly a handsome man appears claiming to be Robert Kirk of the same time lorn legend. He declares that he has been the Seelie Queen’s Gallowglass and personal assassin for the past 300 years. Karina is skeptical until they are attacked by demons. Then the fantasy becomes real and Karina is in the midst of the whole ordeal.
In the meantime, brother Chris is drowning his sorrows in alcohol. Until he meets Sorcha and becomes instantly attracted to her. Karina then realizes that there is much more to the Seelie Queen’s motivation and evil designs.
When Robert applies the magical fairy ointment to Karina’s face, she is able to see beyond the earthly realm, curses and spells, but the ointment also has some side effects that aren’t so good.
Will Karina help free Robert from being the Gallowglass forever?
Gallowglass is an exciting paranormal, romance, fantasy that readers will indulge their minds, souls and emotions in. It is filled with adventure, magic and mythology. Scotland, in and of itself, is an enchanting place and in this story it becomes even more magical, mysterious and captivating. There are fairies, demons, pixies and all sorts of creatures, good and bad, to be had in this fantastic otherworldly tale.
There are many fiery battles that the character Robert must face and these battles are written with animation and a fine descriptive style and voice. I could just imagine the complexion of the large creatures he faced. I was caught up and captivated from the beginning to the fulfilling end. It is fast paced, full of action and engrossing.
I loved the characters, they are fabulous and well developed. Karina’s personality shines and the narrative between the sister and brother, Karina and Chris, was written very well and I found it to be very appealing. I fully connected with the characters and felt drawn to them and marveled in their quests.
Jennifer Allis Provost writes and composes a very descriptive piece of work in Gallowglass. The scenery, battles and creatures are well defined and extremely vivid and exciting. There is romance, magic and legends to be found in this highly recommend novel.
The premise of the story is unique and original, I haven’t read anything like this before. It’s full of creativity and has a fresh plot and storyline with genuine characters.
Gallowglass is an absorbing story that will capture reader’s attention from start to finish. It is highly entertaining and gripping, as I couldn’t put it down.
I highly recommend Gallowglass to all urban fantasyparanormalromance lovers out there, and am looking forward to the next book by this excellent author Jennifer Allis Provost.
Purchase Gallowglass @Amazon Now

4/21/18

Quest to the Unknown by Annelies George



Quest to the Unknown by Annelies George
Synopsis:
Quest to the Unknown revolves around up-and-coming Dutch reporter Jessie Golden, ready for her first holiday with business mogul and playboy Carlos Gomez, with whom she is engaged in a budding romance. Her journey begins when she finds a folder full of information on a mysterious woman named Nancy and her son Paul, leading her to an unexpected quest. Soon thereafter Jessie is confronted with a series of unexplainable supernatural occurrences. She realizes there is no such thing as coincidence, although she can’t unravel the true meaning of her quest nor her link to Nancy and her son.
At the same time Jessie believes Carlos’ father has ties with some questionable characters. Startled by a series of unexpected events she reaches out to Ed Turner, Carlos’ right-hand man. In order to protect the one she truly loves, Jessie starts an investigation that points to the murky world of the mob. When a stranger is constantly following her, Jessie’s life is in serious danger. Can the ones she implicitly confides in, still be trusted?
The first part of the Jessie Golden 21st Century Earth Series, introduces the main characters of the saga in an intriguing story of exceptional mother love, the far reaching consequences of choices in life, genuine feelings, blind faith and brutal deception, set in a multitude of countries in today’s fast moving business world.
Quest to the Unknown by Annelies George is book one in the Jessie Golden 21st Century Earth Series. In it we have Jessie Golden, a Dutch journalist at Kruger Publishing, responsible for a business magazine. After ending a fifteen year relationship, she is tasked to interview Carlos Gomez, a playboy and powerful businessman, in which she falls in mutual love with. But Carlos is not the only one that is attracted to Jessie. Then she finds a folder in her room with information about a curious family in which she immediately feels a connection to. After finding numerous leads in the documents, she and her friend Angelina embark upon a journey that leads her to an energy healer named Nancy. Through Nancy she learns of her mission. Then she checks out Nancy’s son Paul and discovers a link between them.
She also has other missions that are more tedious. Her journey leads her to various countries. She has a story with Carlos’ father, Sancho, who is involved with the mob and insider trading and he may, in fact, be trying to destroy his son’s businesses. Carlos declares his love for Jessie and they become engaged to be married. Is Carlos the right one for Jessie? Little is what it seems and Jessie has to determine the truth, including Carlos’ extreme feelings for her. As situations are revealed, Jessie moves forward towards her life altering mission. During her travels she has some supernatural encounters. Is all this a coincidence? To top it all off, someone is following Jessie and her life is in danger.
Quest to the Unknown is the first in an apocalyptic series by Annelies George. It is filled with mystery, crime and the supernatural. The author does an exemplary job of creating characters that are realistic and interesting. Moreover, the suspense in this novel is nail biting and riveting. There is rape murder, drug lords and violence. It keeps readers on the edge of their seat with its intense suspense and mystery. The characters are well developed and multifaceted. I became invested in their lives. There were even parts where I cried. Annelies George did a great job of developing the characters with their particular personalities. I truly became steeped in Jessie’s life as she is determined, independent, with keen investigative prowess. She is loyal and successful in all that she does which will make good for immediate and future missions. I became emotionally entrenched in Jessie’s life and her missions and their outcomes. My heart went out to her many times.
The plot and storyline flow with ease even though it is intense and powerful. It is fast paced and fully engaging. The characters help weave together a story that is an extreme combination of uncertainty, science fiction and romance. There are many mysterious questions that inevitably must be figured out and answered. Annelies George writes an involved and engrossing mystery that grabbed my attention from the start and wouldn’t let go until the end. And even then, I am looking forward to the continuing saga.
The scenes to introduce each chapter were written well and I was able to easily follow along. The descriptions gave me a keen idea of the locations, the people and their surroundings. This novel is excellent and well composed. There are no grammatical errors which made for an enjoyable smooth read. With a strong female protagonist, mystery, adventure, drama and suspense I was totally hooked and engaged. I couldn’t put it down. It’s a real page turner. I fully anticipate the second book in the series.
Quest to the Unknown is a must read, 5 star saga, with more to come.
Reviewed by Chick Lit Cafe
Purchase Quest to the Unknown by Annelies George @Amazon