book blog by Heena Rathore-Pardeshi | Of Whiskers And Words
Author: Heena R. Pardeshi
Heena is the author of the award-winning novel Deceived. She works as the novel critic and the chief editor at a local publishing house in Pune, India. She is an animal lover as well as an animal activist.
She loves books, music and wine. Travelling and learning about new cultures is an integral part of her life.
She is presently learning Piano and French language.
She lives in Pune, India with her beloved husband and 6 cats.
Author: Ni Wencai Release Date: 29 July 2025 Series: Genre: Memoir, Non-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 229 pages Publisher: Earnshaw Books Blurb: For more than three decades into the early 21st Century, China’s effort to curb population growth through the “one-child policy” created a wave of abandoned Chinese infants, most of them girls. Around 160,000 of these Chinese children found homes abroad, with more than half of them joining American families. International adoptions should be a beautiful story of familial love transcending national boundaries. However, when the unintended fallout from the one-child policy came to light, it captured Western media attention, making China’s international adoption program a controversial subject.
This book offers a unique blend of Chinese and Western perspectives. The author, a Chinese civil servant who also oversaw a local orphanage, is a scholar with an international outlook. The book explores human relationships: familial bonds that transcend biological links, the continuing connection of the adoptees and their families with their homeland in China, and the special relationship that developed between the author and families who adopted daughters from his jurisdiction. In an era of unprecedented geopolitical tensions between the United States and China, this book highlights an overwhelmingly positive aspect of the relationship between citizens of these two great nations, offering much-needed inspiration and hope.,
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Love Without Borders by Ni Wencai is a heartfelt and deeply moving story that explores the universal longing for connection across cultures, distances, and emotional boundaries. What begins as a seemingly simple narrative of two people brought together by chance gradually unfolds into something more profound; a meditation on love, identity, and the courage it takes to open oneself up to another person in an unfamiliar world. The author writes with tenderness and sincerity, allowing readers to feel the push and pull of emotion that defines cross-cultural relationships.
What I found particularly moving about this book is how grounded it is in real emotion. It doesn’t romanticize difference or distance but instead portrays love as a complex, evolving force that is beautiful, frustrating, and transformative. The characters feel authentic, their flaws and hopes interwoven with the settings they inhabit. From moments of introspection to scenes of cultural discovery, every page captures the vulnerability of stepping beyond one’s comfort zone for the sake of connection.
The prose flows with warmth and restraint, striking a delicate balance between passion and reflection. The pacing allows readers to breathe, to feel the weight of each emotional beat, and to witness how love reshapes the individuals at its center. There’s a sense of maturity in the storytelling that makes it stick with you after the story is over.
In essence, Love Without Borders is not just a story about romance; it’s about empathy, transformation, and the shared emotional connection that transcends geography. It’s a reminder that while love may begin between two people, it ultimately bridges entire worlds.
Author: Diane Schaffer Release Date: 4 March 2025 Series: A Mortal Zin Mystery (Book #1) Genre: Crime Fiction, Mystery, Thriller, Humour Format: E-book Pages: 408 pages Publisher: Sibylline Press Blurb: A crusading attorney’s death. Sabotage at a family winery. Secrets buried in California’s past…When corporate attorney Noli Cooper visits her godparents’ Santa Cruz Mountain winery, she’s hoping for a few quiet days to consider her future. But the future will have to wait. The body of her childhood mentor, a crusading social justice lawyer and local hero, is discovered in a rocky ocean cove. The sheriff is quick to call it suicide. Noli knows he’s wrong. Teaming up with PI Luz Alvarado, Noli dives into a world where nothing is as it seems.
As threats mount and the winery teeters on the brink of ruin, Noli and Luz must navigate a treacherous landscape of greed, revenge, and long-buried secrets. Their investigation weaves through the rich tapestry of California’s vineyard history, the mystery of zinfandel grapes, and the haunting legacy of the Vietnam War. With a murderer on the loose, predatory neighbors circling, and Noli’s godfather framed for murder, the clock is ticking. Can two fearless women from different worlds unravel the truth before it’s too late?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Mortal Zin is a lively, character-driven novel that blends crime, suspense, and a touch of dark humor into a story that feels gritty as well as entertaining. From the opening chapters, the book throws readers into a world of ambition, temptation, and danger, where choices are rarely clean and every action carries weight. It’s the kind of story that keeps you engaged with its mix of sharp dialogue, fast pacing, and a cast of flawed, unforgettable characters.
What stands out most is how the author builds atmosphere. The settings feel vivid as bars, back alleys, and quiet corners all carry an undercurrent of tension, making the reader feel like something is always about to happen. The tone shifts seamlessly between high-stakes tension and wry humor, offering moments of relief without ever letting go of the suspense. This balance gives the book an energy that pulls you along while still allowing space to appreciate its layered characters.
At its heart, Mortal Zin is a story about choices and consequences. It digs into how people justify their actions, whether driven by greed, survival, or loyalty, and what happens when those justifications unravel. The protagonist’s arc is particularly compelling, as he is constantly walking the line between control and chaos, morality and survival.
Overall, Mortal Zin is a smart, engaging read for anyone who enjoys crime fiction with depth. It isn’t just about the mechanics of the plot, but about the people who inhabit it, their flaws, ambitions, and the shadows they carry. Suspenseful, atmospheric, and at times darkly funny, it’s a book that will resonate with fans of noir and contemporary thrillers alike.
Author: Adam Fike Release Date: 19 March, 2021 Series: PEOPLE MAKING DANGER Genre: Crime Fiction, Western Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 69 pages Publisher: – Blurb: MUSCLE CAR WESTERN – Hanner only wants to tinker in his desert junk yard, fish for wrecks on the highway and forget his family legacy. A rotten Sheriff, fate and a vault full of organized crime loot have another idea. Free samples at adamfike.com/books. PEOPLE MAKING DANGER is a collection of quick, fun, three-act, feature-length stories, full of suspense, surprises and dark humor. All told in the present tense. Like reading a movie.
“What a HOOT… recommended to me by a friend… High Desert is a clean shot at life and crime in the mid-twentieth century… I haven’t laughed so much in years. I plan to start on The Quiet Ones and work my way through them all.”
– BookBub Review
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
High Desert by Adam Fike is a gritty, cinematic slice of crime fiction that perfectly captures the raw, unpredictable energy of the American West. Adam Fike doesn’t just tell a story about a botched heist and the violent, eccentric characters surrounding it, he creates a living, breathing desert landscape where danger lurks behind every gas station, junkyard, and stretch of empty highway. The atmosphere is heavy with heat, dust, and tension, giving the story a visual quality that feels ready-made for the screen.
What makes this tale so compelling is the cast of flawed but unforgettable characters. From Hanner, the hardened junkyard owner with his own rules of survival, to small-time hustlers, con men, and corrupt lawmen, every interaction is laced with suspicion, wit, and the constant threat of betrayal. The dialogue is sharp and often darkly humorous, while the pacing keeps the narrative moving with the same relentlessness as a car engine roaring across desert roads.
Overall, High Desert is a meditation on survival, morality, and the blurred lines between law, outlaw, and everything in between. It’s grim, fast-paced, and at times unexpectedly funny, making it a standout entry in the People Making Danger collection.
Author: Adam Fike Release Date: 19 March, 2021 Series: PEOPLE MAKING DANGER Genre: Science-Fiction, Satire Format: E-book Pages: 78 pages Publisher: – Blurb: MID-CENTURY SCI-FI SATIRE – Early one morning at the end of the 1950s, an impressive, highly coordinated Army training exercise goes off without a hitch. Until frightened town folk decide to fight back. Based on a true story. PEOPLE MAKING DANGER is a collection of quick, fun, three-act, feature-length stories, full of suspense, surprises and dark humor. All told in the present tense. Like reading a movie.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Operation Dragonhead by Adam Fike is a wildly inventive, satirical tale that blurs the line between Cold War paranoia, small-town Americana, and comic-book absurdity. Based on a real-life Army exercise in the 1950s, the story reimagines the chaos through the eyes of farmers, townsfolk, and overzealous generals who mistake, or encourage others to mistake, routine maneuvers for a full-blown alien invasion. What unfolds is a sharp, humorous critique of fear, authority, and the fragile trust between citizens and institutions.
What I loved most about this story is its tonal balance. Author Adam Fike layers sharp political commentary beneath a playful, almost cinematic surface. The exaggerated characters, the blustering General Hammertree, the wide-eyed townsfolk, the opportunistic local elites feel like archetypes, yet they capture something essential about human behavior in times of confusion. The dialogue brims with wit, and the pacing keeps the reader engaged, moving seamlessly between tense military briefings and farcical encounters with “aliens.”
Overall, Operation Dragonhead is more than a quirky historical fiction piece, it’s a mirror held up to both the absurdity and the danger of orchestrated fear. Readers who enjoy a mix of satire, history, and speculative playfulness will find this story as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
While Elif Shafak’s writing proved quite disappointing, Augustina Bazterrica’s phenomenal storytelling and world-building completely made up for it. I finally managed to finish the 3rd book in Brandon Sanderson’s epic saga Mistborn (with over 2000+ pages in just 3 books), and started with a very popular crime series by Steig Larsson, Millennium trilogy, opening with The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
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Author: MJ Walker Release Date: 25 July, 2025 Series: Genre: Memoir, Women’s Literature Format: E-book Pages: 283 pages Publisher: – Blurb: AN ADOPTION REUNION – based on a true story – Meet Polly, her Italian husband Joe and his identical twin brother Cicero. Polly is adopted and wants to find her heritage, but the twins’ passion for Italy dominates her life. She gets more style than Gucci, more opera than Verdi and more pasta than she can eat. If this isn’t bad enough, Polly’s friends insist that she belongs where she is loved – safe and secure in her wealthy Sydney suburb. What should Polly do? She has met her birth mother, but not only will that lady refuse to discuss the past, she has barred Polly from ever meeting her siblings. Then one day Polly reads in the newspaper that her mother has been murdered. Or has she? Polly’s longed-for adoption reunion finally happens but not in the way she expects.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Every once in a while, I come across a book that feels less like a neatly packaged story and more like an intimate glimpse into someone’s life experience. Italian by Default by M.J. Walker is very much that kind of book. It reads like a heartfelt exploration of identity, belonging, and cultural duality, written with honesty and warmth. From the very first pages, the narrative establishes itself as personal and genuine, inviting readers to not just observe, but to sit with the author’s reflections and journey.
What stood out to me most was the way the prose blends simplicity with depth. There’s an ease to the storytelling, it doesn’t try to dazzle with overly ornate language, yet the sincerity behind the words makes the book resonate on a deeper level. The pacing feels unhurried, almost conversational, giving space for the cultural observations and personal insights to sink in. This style makes the book accessible while still carrying weight in its themes.
Without delving into spoilers, I can say that what I appreciated most about this book is its exploration of identity, not as a fixed, singular concept but as something fluid, shifting with environment, relationships, and perspective. For anyone who has ever lived between cultures or questioned where they truly belong, Italian by Default will feel especially relatable.
Overall, this book is a thoughtful and respectful meditation on selfhood and heritage. It doesn’t seek to give easy answers, nor does it try to universalize the author’s experiences. Instead, it offers a window into one individual’s journey, while leaving enough openness for readers to reflect on their own. In a world where identity is so often boxed and labeled, Italian by Default reminds us of the richness that lies in nuance, complexity, and authenticity.
Author: Debra Liu Release Date: 8 July, 2025 Series: Genre: Nature Writing, Memoir, Philosophical Format: E-book Pages: 232 pages Publisher: Earnshaw Books Ltd Blurb: In a journey of discovery through China’s sacred mountains, traversing the hidden caves of Huashan, freshwater pools where alchemists once lived on Luofushan, and the opulent brilliance of the Gold Palace atop Wudangshan, Debra Liu explores the rich culture and history of the Daoist tradition. The author was ordained as a Daoist in the Qingsong group of temples, part of the Quanzhen Dragon Gate lineage, in Brisbane, Australia. She seamlessly integrates elements of Daoist philosophy and contemporary practice in this fascinating account, where the past is inextricably entwined with the present, where each step up a mountain is punctuated with magnificent vistas, archaic legends and the chants of ancient scriptures echoing across stone stairways. Through this book, the reader can ‘enter the mountains’ to find the heart of the Daoism, as a vibrant, modern practice with deep roots in antiquity.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
From the very first page, Into the Mountains by Debra Liu drew me in with its subtle yet powerful storytelling. It’s a narrative that carries the intimacy of lived experiences and emotions as well as the vastness of the land that shapes those experiences. Author Liu manages to capture the pull of the mountains not only as a physical space but also as a metaphor for solitude, and transformation.
What I particularly appreciated was the way the prose balances descriptive richness with emotional honesty. The mountains come alive not just through visual detail, but through atmosphere. The book is at its strongest when it weaves external journeys with internal ones, showing how isolation, challenge, and beauty leave their mark on the human psyche.
The pacing is deliberate, and I found myself savoring it rather than rushing. Author Liu doesn’t force revelations but allows them to unfold organically, much like a climb itself: one step at a time, with effort and pauses to simply take in the view. By the end, I felt I had walked alongside the narrator, sharing in their solitude, their awe, and their gradual rediscovery of self.
Overall, Into the Mountains is a reflective and evocative read that will especially resonate with readers who, like me, are drawn to stories of solitude, inner transformation, and the healing power of nature. It is less about a plot and more about emotional resonance and atmosphere. And for that very reason, it lingers long after the last page is turned.
Author: Sebastiano Lanza Release Date: September 22, 2025 Series: Burn My Shadow (Book 2) Genre: Graphic Novel Format: E-book Pages: under 100 pages Publisher:Markosia Enterprises Blurb: In Leipzig, Tharmas devises a plan to kidnap Thomas Crowley. To do so, he’ll need assistance from a quite extravagant tech wizz, a rather inhumane amount of patience, and a very light footstep. Even so, plans rarely unfold as first imagined.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Burn My Shadow #2 takes readers deeper into its dystopian, cyberpunk-inspired world, where surveillance and control dictate every aspect of existence. This issue ramps up the tension by placing Tharmas and young K in the thick of shadowy deals, infiltration missions, and encounters with faceless enforcers. At the same time, we see propaganda speeches from the ruling elite, dripping with doublespeak that reframes oppression as progress. The contrast between the cold sterility of those in power and the grim desperation of those in the streets makes for a sharp and unsettling read.
The writing is dense with themes of compliance, resistance, and survival, while the artwork excels at amplifying the mood. Stark whites and clean lines dominate the scenes of propaganda, while the rain-soaked cityscapes and back-alley dealings pulse with grit and urgency. Tharmas, weary yet determined, is fleshed out further as a morally complex anti-hero, while K brings both innocence and moral tension to the story.
Issue #2 successfully balances world-building with forward-moving plot, setting up the confrontation with Crowley that promises bigger stakes ahead. Though some of the political speeches may feel lengthy, they reinforce the chilling reality of this authoritarian future. With its mix of noir tension, political allegory, and cinematic visuals, Burn My Shadow #2 is a gripping continuation that solidifies this series as one to watch out for.
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author MJ Walker for her latest release, Italian By Default.
Book: Italian By Default Author: MJ Walker Publication Date: July 25th, 2025 Genres: Women’s Literature, Memoir, Humour Page Count: 283 For Readers Who Loved Reading: Bill Bryson’s works Formats Available: e-Ebook ($3.99 USD)
About the Book
AN ADOPTION REUNION – based on a true story – Meet Polly, her Italian husband Joe and his identical twin brother Cicero. Polly is adopted and wants to find her heritage, but the twins’ passion for Italy dominates her life. She gets more style than Gucci, more opera than Verdi and more pasta than she can eat. If this isn’t bad enough, Polly’s friends insist that she belongs where she is loved – safe and secure in her wealthy Sydney suburb. What should Polly do? She has met her birth mother, but not only will that lady refuse to discuss the past, she has barred Polly from ever meeting her siblings. Then one day Polly reads in the newspaper that her mother has been murdered. Or has she? Polly’s longed-for adoption reunion finally happens but not in the way she expects.
Margaret Walker is a teacher. She lives in Sydney, Australia with her family. Her first two novels His Most Italian City and Through Forests and Mountains were published by Penmore Press in the USA.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Author: Adam Fike Release Date: 19 March, 2021 Series: PEOPLE MAKING DANGER Genre: Literary Horror, Psychological Horror, Crime-Thriller, Noir, Horror Format: E-book Pages: 66 pages Publisher: – Blurb: SUBURBAN THRILLER. When a young girl goes missing, families fall apart and neighbors grow together with the help of their friendly local serial killer. PEOPLE MAKING DANGER is a collection of quick, fun, three-act, feature-length stories, full of suspense, surprises and dark humor. All told in the present tense. Like reading a movie.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Adam Fike’s The Quiet Ones is a sinister slice of small-town noir with a macabre twist: neighbors who “grow together” under the shadow of a serial killer. Set in the sleepy but unsettling town of Clearfield Falls, the story layers the ordinary things like funerals, lawn services, and office gossip with the grotesque, where bodies double as fertilizer and everyday people reveal darker impulses. The writing blends dark humor with chilling violence, making the mundane (like mowing lawns or family dinners) feel like it’s always one step away from horror.
What stands out most is theinterplay between banality and menace. Characters like Ruth, who hides behind oversized glasses, and Junior, the deceptively gentle gardener, embody the theme that danger doesn’t always roar, sometimes it whispers. Fike’s pacing is cinematic, cutting between suburban kitchens, cemetery burials, and sinister sheds with a rhythm that keeps readers uneasy yet hooked. While the sheer length of descriptive passages and overlapping storylines could overwhelm some readers, the atmosphere is thick, immersive, and undeniably memorable.
Overall, The Quiet Ones succeeds as a dark, satirical portrait of community and complicity. It’s a story that asks unsettling questions about what people are willing to ignore to maintain comfort, and whether monsters are truly outsiders or simply the neighbors we never look at too closely.
Author: E.F. Nordmed Release Date: July 14, 2025 Series: Genre: Cozy Mystery, Science-Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 184 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Stout works as a tech by day, saving up money to achieve his dream of leaving the planet. His plans are thrown in disarray when he’s asked to look for a missing college student, Andrew, and he quickly finds himself over his head while looking for answers. He reaches out to his old flame, Yasmeen, who works on the police force for help. Yasmeen is unhappy with the corruption she sees in her job, but is trying to change the force from the inside. When Stout asks her for aid, she’s hesitant to assist his amateur investigation, but when he’s falsely framed for murder and kidnapping knows she has to get involved.
Can they navigate Corporate Security agents, industrial spies, and the criminal underground to rescue the student and clear Stout’s name before it’s too late? Will they be able to stay true to their values in a world that rewards corruption? And will they let their feelings for each other reignite, or will the world get in their way?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
E.F. Nordmed’s Market of the Never Setting Sun is a refreshing entry in the sci-fi mystery space. It’s a novel that blends the grit of corporate corruption and industrial espionage with the charm of a cozy mystery’s slower, character-driven heart. At its center is Stout, a weary but determined tech worker saving every penny for his dream of leaving the planet. That dream is derailed when he’s asked to track down a missing college student, Andrew, a seemingly simple favor that spirals into a dangerous web of intrigue.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its atmosphere. The titular market feels vibrant and lived-in, a place where technology, trade, and corruption intersect beneath the glow of a sun that never sets. Nordmed balances worldbuilding with accessibility, never bogging the reader down in jargon but giving enough detail for the setting to feel tangible.
The character dynamics are equally engaging. Stout is a reluctant hero, stumbling into danger out of obligation rather than ambition, which makes his growth believable. His rekindled connection with Yasmeen, the police officer caught between her moral compass and a corrupt system, adds depth both to the plot and to the emotional stakes. Their relationship feels authentic and the tension between their personal bond and the larger mystery keeps the narrative engaging.
Thematically, the novel resonates. Questions of justice, integrity, and survival in a system built on exploitation underpin the mystery. The story doesn’t shy away from pointing out how corruption seeps into institutions meant to protect, but it does so with a cozy tone that makes the critique approachable rather than bleak.
The prose itself is straightforward and effective, but at times leans on exposition when showing would have been more immersive. Still, Nordmed’s clean writing style makes the book highly readable, and the lighter touch aligns well with the cozy sci-fi niche it occupies.
Market of the Never Setting Sun is a thoughtful, atmospheric sci-fi mystery that stands out for its grounded characters, morally resonant themes, and cozy but suspenseful tone. It’s a satisfying, engaging read that will appeal to fans of sci-fi with heart, mystery with conscience, and stories that ask what it means to hold onto your values in a world that rewards corruption.
Author: David Finley Release Date: 3 November, 2021 Series: Genre: YA Dystopian Satire, YA Humor, YA Adventure, YA Science Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 204 pages Publisher: FINWORKS Blurb: Like Orwell’s 1984 — but even funnier! In a grim School-centred dystopia where humour is outlawed and laughter—even a single HA!—is met with an excruciating electric shock to the neck, Billy 9F is the ultimate threat: he’s a Class Clown. When he’s labeled a menace for his extremely convincing and sublimely funny fake snot, barf and turd pranks, Billy joins a underground comedic resistance movement with a mysterious new student, Jamie 9F, her mysterious grandfather, the Major, an ultra-mysterious revolutionary leader named Poopoo the Clown, and Billy’s not-at-all
mysterious but highly malfunctioning android mentor, Uncle Mike. To free his imprisoned parents, save his little sister’s life and liberate the joyless populace, Billy must fully realize his own natural-born gifts and harness the awesome power of laughter. Darkly funny, fast, and surprisingly hopeful, BILLY 9F is perfect for readers 12 years of age to infinity who love page-turners with big ideas—and lots of laughs.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
David Finley’s Billy 9F is a wildly inventive YA dystopian satire that blends absurdist humor with biting social commentary. The novel follows Billy, a schoolboy living in a rigid system where laughter is outlawed, rules are enforced with demerits and “Pain Collars,” and conformity is the highest value. His life takes a strange turn when his parents gift him “Uncle Mike,” a 57-year-old man who becomes both an irritating companion and an unlikely ally. From there, Billy stumbles into secret wars with clowns, underground resistance movements, and surreal teachers who bulldoze into dining rooms mid-meal.
What makes the book compelling is its sharp use of comedy as rebellion. Whether it’s fart jokes elevated to acts of protest, or the way “outside laughter” becomes a weapon against authoritarian control, author Finley underscores the importance of humor as survival. The recurring presence of Uncle Mike, bumbling, exasperating, yet oddly endearing, adds both comic relief and thematic depth. Jamie and the Major, resistance figures who guide Billy, give the narrative more emotional resonance and direction.
From an editorial perspective, the book occasionally overindulges in repetition. Uncle Mike’s constant chatter and some extended slapstick routines could have been trimmed without losing impact. Still, the playful prose, the creativity of its dystopian world, and the rhythm of dialogue keep the pages turning.
Overall, Billy 9F is equal parts absurd, satirical, and heartfelt. It asks readers, young and old alike, to remember the radical power of laughter in a world that insists on taking itself too seriously.
Author: Josh Martin Release Date: 13 April, 2025 Series: B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You (Book #3) Genre: Horror, Mystery, Supernatural, Psychological Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 119 pages Publisher: – Blurb: The terrifying mystery has taken yet another turn. The stakes are higher than ever. Grayson’s running out of time… It’s a frenetic race to an ending you won’t see coming! The exciting conclusion is finally here. Buckle up!
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
With Part III, B&G Mystery pushes the series into even darker, more labyrinthine territory, tying together threads of family trauma, supernatural manipulation, and the relentless questioning of what is real. Grayson remains at the center, but the narrative expands to test his endurance (emotionally, physically, and spiritually) as he faces deeper betrayals and revelations.
The atmosphere continues to be the series’ greatest strength. The imagery is often chillingly cinematic: houses that appear and vanish, the eerie pendants that tie characters to forces beyond comprehension, and the grotesque presence of Replicas, which hint at an apocalyptic design far larger than Grayson’s personal struggles. The recurring motifs of rain, sigils, masks, and mirrors take on even heavier symbolic weight, layering the story with mythic resonance.
As with the previous installments, the book does occasionally stumble under its own weight. The dialogue can still feel circular, with characters volleying cryptic half-truths that slow pacing rather than sharpen tension. Some middle chapters linger too long on Grayson’s inner turmoil, repeating questions the reader has already internalized. That said, Part III raises the stakes in ways that make the payoff worthwhile. The climactic confrontations are both grotesque and heartbreaking, a reminder of how personal loss lies at the center of this sprawling supernatural puzzle.
We Can’t Tell You, Part III by Josh Martin delivers a darker, more ambitious continuation of the saga. While it inherits some of the repetition issues from earlier volumes, its atmosphere, symbolism, and devastating emotional core make it a gripping addition. For readers who have followed from Parts I and II, this installment deepens the nightmare in ways that will both unsettle and haunt.
Author: Susan Wan Dolling Release Date: 5 August, 2025 Series: Song Dynasty Poets Genre: Earnshaw Books Format: E-book Pages: 283 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Volume I, Hundred Tongues, enters the world of Nothern Song Dynasty poets. It begins with a romantic warlord followed by “A Short, Short History of Song China”. Then comes a serious scholar-warrior, and a popular poet-songwriter whom some considered “vulgar”. Following them is a pair of good friends who were exiled and separated from each other. Two poets, one called “heroic and unrestrained” and the other, “delicate and elusive,” concludes this selection from the first part of the Song dynasty.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Susan Wan Dolling’s Hundred Tongues is both a doorway and a companion to the lyric world of the Song Dynasty. This first volume, devoted to the Northern Song poets, sets the stage with translations that feel alive while also providing readers with enough context to understand the cultural, historical, and literary forces at play. From Li Yu’s haunting captivity poems to the bold voices of Su Shi and Qin Guan, author Dolling ensures that each poet is introduced as a strong voice with personality, context, and resonance.
What impressed me most is author Dolling’s balance between scholarship and accessibility. The book explains the difference between shi and ci, the intricacies of tune-patterns, and the cultural symbols woven into the lyrics (from wutong trees to migrating geese) but never in a way that alienates a newcomer. Instead, she offers these notes conversationally, as if guiding the reader through a gallery of poems, pointing out details they might have otherwise missed. This makes the translations not only comprehensible but deeply enjoyable, carrying both the music of the originals and the intimacy of personal reflection.
The translations themselves lean toward clarity and lyricism rather than ornament. They are readable aloud, and this simplicity allows the imagery to shine. At times, the commentary repeats information already offered, and some readers may wish for a stronger map or timeline to situate the poets within the dynasty. Still, these are minor quibbles when weighed against the richness the book provides.
On the whole, Hundred Tongues succeeds in what so many poetry collections fail to do, it makes the poems feel urgent and present rather than relics of a distant age. For readers familiar with Tang poetry who wonder what came after, or for anyone curious about the depth and subtlety of Chinese lyric, this book is an illuminating, thoughtful, and highly readable introduction. It is a project that feels both scholarly and personal, and that combination makes it linger. Its a beautiful entry point into Song Dynasty poetry, with translations that are clear, evocative, and anchored by commentary that both informs and invites.
Author: Geoffrey M Cooper Release Date: October 7, 2025 Series: Brad Parker and Karen Richmond Medical Thrillers Genre: Medical Thriller, Suspense Format: E-book Pages: 229 pages Publisher: Captain Thomas Publishing Blurb: Who’s killing the cancer researchers? A leading clinical investigator is butchered in his hotel room hours after receiving a prestigious award for cancer research. Weeks later, a second researcher is the victim of an apparently random mugging in a parking garage. Unexpectedly, crime scene DNA establishes that the two men were killed by the same woman. But her identity remains unknown, her motive is mysterious, and the connections between the victims are scant—except that they were both collaborating with Professor Brad Parker at the Maine Translational Research Institute. When the killer strikes close to home, Brad and his fiancée—state police lieutenant Karen Richmond—are drawn into a nightmare of maniacal revenge. Until Brad sets a trap for the killer…or falls prey to a trap the killer has set for him.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Geoffrey M. Cooper’s Betrayal of Trust sets its sights on the shadowy intersections of science, power, and morality, delivering a story that is as intellectually gripping as it is emotionally charged. It opens with a fiery hook and from that moment, the novel grips you with a potent mix of scientific intrigue, psychological drama, and the high stakes of justice gone personal.
The novel dives into the murky underbelly of academic medicine, exposing how power, reputation, and predation intertwine. As the story progresses, the author does a great job of raising the stakes from personal revenge to systemic rot. Author Cooper’s background in science lends the novel a razor-sharp authenticity. From clinical trial data to DNA evidence, the details never feel forced, but rather elevate the story’s stakes.
Brad Parker is an excellent protagonist and Shirley makes for a fascinating antagonist; she is morally complex, technically skilled, and driven by both revenge and justice. The interplay between Brad Parker and Karen Richmond is one of the book’s greatest strengths. Their combined expertise, science and law enforcement, creates a dynamic that’s both intellectual and emotional.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the book, there are moments where the narrative could have been tighter. Surveillance details and hacking logistics, while realistic, occasionally slowed the pace. Additionally, some of the secondary characters could have been fleshed out more deeply to add layers of emotional resonance. These are, however, just minor issues compared to the overall experience of reading this book.
Betrayal of Trust is a tense and timely thriller that explores what happens when power, science, and exploitation collide. Author Cooper balances ethical questions with a strong, suspenseful narrative, making this one of the more thought-provoking medical thrillers I’ve read recently. If you enjoy Robin Cook or Michael Palmer, this book deserves a spot on your shelf.
Author: Robb Watson Release Date: August 8, 2025 Series: Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy, Psychological Fantasy, Surreal Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 77 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Ever had the exact same nightmare every night. Miles was beginning junior high and trying out for the basketball team. While trying to fit in and excel on the court, he started to have nightmares he couldn’t get rid of. In Dreamland, the court he once loved twists into a living nightmare. Monsters whisper his name. Shadows chase his every move. And at the center of it all stands Selim—a sinister, red-eyed creature that seems to know Miles’s deepest regrets. Miles must navigate a haunting dream world that mirrors his own mistakes. With the help of friends—both real and imagined—he sets out to uncover the truth behind the dreams. A fantasy about the monsters we create when we forget who we are.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Robb Watson’s Dreamland: Selim’s Echo is a darkly imaginative middle-grade/YA crossover that blends the pulse of sports fiction with the shadows of psychological horror and the tenderness of coming-of-age. Author Watson excels at crafting horror imagery that is both surreal and psychologically resonant. Selim, as the literal embodiment of Miles’s self-doubt and fear, is a masterstroke of symbolism. The dream sequences are cinematic, often evoking Neil Gaiman’s Coraline or the darker tones of Stranger Things.
At its core, this isn’t just a story about nightmares, but about guilt, regret, and ultimately redemption. Miles’s arc feels emotionally honest and hopeful. The second half of the book, where Miles becomes a guide within Dreamland to help Mia confront her own anxieties, expands the novel’s scope beautifully. It reframes Dreamland as not just a personal battleground but a shared space for healing.
Over all, Dreamland: Selim’s Echo is a vivid, unsettling, and heartfelt novel that balances horror with hope. Though it occasionally lingers too long in its dream cycles and could sharpen its supporting cast, it stands out for its inventive symbolism, strong emotional core, and its message: that the scariest monsters are often the ones we carry inside ourselves, and the only way to defeat them is to face them.
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author E.F. Nordmed for his latest release, Market of the Never Setting Sun.
Book: Market of the Never Setting Sun Author: EF Nordmed Publication Date: July 14th, 2025 Genres: Sci-fi Cozy Mystery, Private Eye, Amateur Detective, Tech Noir Page Count: 184 For Readers Who Loved Reading: Malka Ann Older, “The Mimicking of Known Successes”; Mur Lafferty, “Station Eternity”; Samit Basu, “The Jinn-Bot of Shantiport”; Annalee Newitz, “Automatic Noodle”
About the Book
Stout works as a tech by day, saving up money to achieve his dream of leaving the planet. His plans are thrown in disarray when he’s asked to look for a missing college student, Andrew, and he quickly finds himself over his head while looking for answers. He reaches out to his old flame, Yasmeen, who works on the police force for help.
Yasmeen is unhappy with the corruption she sees in her job, but is trying to change the force from the inside. When Stout asks her for aid, she’s hesitant to assist his amateur investigation, but when he’s falsely framed for murder and kidnapping knows she has to get involved.
Can they navigate Corporate Security agents, industrial spies, and the criminal underground to rescue the student and clear Stout’s name before it’s too late? Will they be able to stay true to their values in a world that rewards corruption? And will they let their feelings for each other reignite, or will the world get in their way?
You can find Market of the Never Setting Sun here: Amazon
About The Author
E.F. Nordmed
After a childhood spent devouring any science fiction he could get his hands on, he went to college as an English Major and was “fired” from the English Department at the University of Houston because he liked math too much. He spent a tour in the US Marine Corps and finally completed a bachelors and a masters degree in computer science, but never lost his love of the written language or adventure. He has traveled extensively outside of the military, to include visiting all seven continents. This is his second foray into the realm of writing, the first being a technical manual while working for IBM.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Ever had the exact same nightmare every night. Miles was beginning junior high and trying out for the basketball team. While trying to fit in and excel on the court, he started to have nightmares he couldn’t get rid of. In Dreamland, the court he once loved twists into a living nightmare. Monsters whisper his name. Shadows chase his every move. And at the center of it all stands Selim—a sinister, red-eyed creature that seems to know Miles’s deepest regrets. Miles must navigate a haunting dream world that mirrors his own mistakes. With the help of friends—both real and imagined—he sets out to uncover the truth behind the dreams. A fantasy about the monsters we create when we forget who we are.
Robb Watson is a family man and lifelong sports enthusiast whose love for the game shines through in everything he creates. Inspired by his own experiences with family and sports, Robb brings heart and authenticity to every page, aiming to spark young imaginations and bring families closer together.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author David Finley for his latest release, Billy 9F.
Book: Billy 9F Author: David Finley Publication Date: 2021, 2nd Edition 2025 Available Formats: ebook and paperback. Publisher: Genres: YA Dystopian Satire, YA Humor, YA Adventure, YA Science Fiction Page Count: 212 Contact:billy9f@gmail.com
About the Book
Like Orwell’s 1984 — but even funnier!
In a grim School-centred dystopia where humour is outlawed and laughter triggers ruthless punishment, 15-year-old Billy 9F is the ultimate threat: a Class Clown. When he’s labeled a menace for his extremely convincing and sublimely funny fake snot, barf and turd pranks, Billy joins a underground comedic resistance movement with a mysterious new student, Jamie 9F, her mysterious grandfather, the Major, an ultra-mysterious revolutionary leader named Poopoo the Clown, and Billy’s not-at-all mysterious but highly malfunctioning android mentor, Uncle Mike. Inevitably, the regime cracks down and the stakes rise. To free his imprisoned parents, save his little sister’s life and liberate the joyless populace, Billy must fully realize his own natural-born gifts — and harness the awesome power of laughter.
Darkly funny, fast, and surprisingly hopeful, BILLY 9F blends dystopian stakes with sharp satire and heart. Perfect for readers 12 years of age to infinity who love page-turners with big ideas.
David Finley is an award-winning Screenwriter, Filmmaker, Playwright and published Author, living in Toronto. Much of his work has been in family and children’s entertainment. He has had a long career as a writer and story editor, mostly in TV. He has also written, produced and directed his own film and theatre projects and had several short stories published in various literary magazines. “Billy 9F” is his first novel, aimed at readers 12 and above.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Author: Josh Martin Release Date: December 26, 2024 Series: B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You (Book #2) Genre: Horror, Mystery, Supernatural, Psychological Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 115 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Grayson’s night isn’t over! Can he finally unravel the terrifying mystery that’s taken hold of his small town?
…or will he be another victim?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The second installment of We Can’t Tell You wastes no time plunging us back into the eerie, shifting landscape where Grayson, Jane, Michael, Sophia, and Brooks remain entangled in a web of rules, betrayals, and realities that seem to fold in on themselves. The narrative opens with disorientation, Michael collapsing, Jane half-explaining, half-withholding, and Grayson struggling against the endless cycle of questions with no answers. From the very first pages, the book continues the claustrophobic dread established in Part I, and amplifies it with a sense of inevitability: the sense that Grayson is not just walking into danger but being deliberately shepherded towards it.
The author excels at atmosphere. The scenes are written with a cinematic eye for horror. The recurring symbols create a thread of mythology that grows darker and more complex as the story unfolds. The introduction of the Superior Entity and the horrifying suggestion of Replicas expands the scope, moving the tale from small-town occult mystery into apocalyptic cosmic horror.
Though I must point out the book’s two persistent weaknesses. First, the dialogue. While the constant volley of questions and evasive non-answers fits the theme of rules and manipulation, the repetition sometimes dulls its impact. Second, the pacing suffers in the middle stretch. While the buildup of symbols, diary clues, and shifting allegiances is fascinating, the narrative occasionally lingers too long on Grayson’s inner monologues, replaying realizations multiple times.
That said, the final act more than redeems the slower middle and, on the whole, We Can’t Tell You, Part II is unsettling, ambitious, and at times overwhelming, but it delivers a rare kind of dread that lingers. It is a compelling, nightmarish descent that fans of psychological and cosmic horror will find both rewarding and unforgettable.
Author: Veronica Preston Release Date: August 27, 2025 Series: Book #1 Genre: Spiritual Fantasy, Mythic Fiction, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 201 pages Publisher: – Blurb: This isn’t a tale of horns and pitchforks. It’s a tale of questions, echoes, and exile. Book of the Devil: Genesis reimagines the Devil as Iblis—a being of fire, loyalty, and impossible choices. Born into a world of smokeless flame, Iblis is chosen to serve God, but he begins to question the nature of obedience, justice, and divine will. His rebellion is not out of vanity, but love, sorrow, and a desire to understand. As he rises through the celestial order, Iblis walks the line between sacred and profane, setting the stage for a fall that may be more holy than it seems.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Few books dare to give the Devil his own voice, and fewer still manage to do it with the lyrical weight and mythic imagination that Veronica Preston brings to Book of the Devil: Genesis.
Author Preston roots her tale in an expansive cosmology. The Devil here is not a caricature of evil, but a Jinn, born of smokeless fire, whose origins precede mankind itself. Through his eyes, we witness the birth of Nahar, a planet of singing trees, plasma-blooded beings, and a civilization bound by free will and consequence. The refusal to bow to Adam is rendered not as arrogance, but as clarity. In this reframing, the author invites readers to question centuries of dogma: what if the Devil is not our corrupter, but our tester, our liberator, the one who insists humanity use its mind rather than bask in blind innocence?
Thematically, the novel is a meditation on choice, identity, and the necessity of shadow. It threads together Quranic references, Biblical echoes, and speculative cosmology, creating a narrative that is both reverent and rebellious. The chapters read like a blend of scripture and epic fantasy, making the book feel at once timeless and startlingly modern.
As an editor, I must note that author Preston’s greatest strength, her lush, almost operatic prose, can also be the book’s stumbling block. Sentences often run long, heavy with imagery and metaphor. While this lends grandeur, it occasionally slows the pacing and risks overwhelming readers who crave more narrative momentum. There are places, especially in the middle chapters, where the philosophical musings could have been pared back in favor of tighter dramatic action.
That said, Book of the Devil: Genesis succeeds in something rare: it makes the reader pause and reconsider a story they thought they knew. It is provocative without being blasphemous, imaginative without losing its theological moorings. It dares to ask what if the Devil’s fall was not rebellion, but part of the Architect’s design?
Author: Eva Barber Release Date: December 9, 2024 Series: Dark World (Book 1 of 2) Genre: Speculative Fiction, Sci-Fi, Surreal Format: E-book Pages: 458 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Olesya was not born like other people but was found in the Siberian Forest by a couple unable to have children. Plagued by mysterious visions and dreams, she struggles to fit into a society both as a socially inept but brilliant child and as she becomes part of a research team to discover the nature of dark matter. The findings of this discovery never make it to the scientific community as the project leader goes missing and the physics lab blows up, destroyed by a powerful foe with seemingly noble intentions. Seattle detectives question Olesya in connection with the explosion and the disappearance of her boss. She becomes a person of interest until she herself goes missing. From her kidnappers, she learns that her parents, knowing she lacked a belly button, suspected she was created by the Russian government as part of a scientific
experiment, and emigrated to the USA to hide and protect her. She also learns she possesses powers related to dark matter and of the existence of a brother held captive since his discovery by the Russian government. Even though she suspects her kidnappers’ interest in her and their motivations aren’t so noble, she joins them in rescuing her brother. Catastrophic world events following the successful rescue force her to continue working with her foes to save the world from destruction. While working to save the world, Olesya experiences a moral dilemma and becomes someone she never thought she’d be—a mother. Olesya learns of mysterious chambers scattered around the world, and her visions return to haunt her, until she opens the chambers and learns their secrets, wishing she hadn’t. Now she faces the heart-wrenching realization that she must travel into a dark dimension to save the world from self-destruction. Worse yet, her daughter, Emery, is the key to humanity’s salvation and must follow her mother once she becomes an adult because she is the only being who can travel where no one else can to restore balance to the universe and return with an extraordinary gift for humanity. But powerful entities have reasons to keep the gift away from humanity and will do anything to stop her.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Eva Barber’s Unborn is a sprawling, multi-layered tale that weaves together mythology, science, political intrigue, and the raw intimacy of family bonds. At its heart lies Olesya, a young woman whose very existence straddles two worlds: the ordinary and the extraordinary. Discovered as a mysterious child in a Russian forest, she grows up to find her life intertwined with secrets of origin, otherworldly shadows, and a destiny that is as heavy as it is unavoidable.
What author Barber achieves brilliantly is the atmosphere. The shadow realm, where the unborn linger in darkness yearning to be born, is chilling and original. Some scenes are haunting and eerie, layered with sorrow and wonder.
Thematically, Unborn is preoccupied with identity, destiny, and the burden of choice. Olesya’s journey constantly tests the boundaries between science and the supernatural, fate and free will. The novel is ambitious, drawing on mythology, speculative science, and fears of loss and love.
That said, as an editor I must point out where the novel falters. At over 80 chapters, the pacing suffers under the weight of its own ambition. Some sections, particularly Olesya’s inner reflections, repeat ideas already conveyed, slowing momentum. And sometimes, the secondary characters and subplots dilute the focus.
Still, Unborn succeeds in leaving its reader with a lingering unease; the sense that destiny is both irresistible and cruel, and that love, even across impossible boundaries, may not be enough to undo what has been set in motion. Overall, Unborn is ambitious, atmospheric, and thematically rich, and it stands out for its originality and emotional depth.
Welcome to TRB Lounge. Today, I’d like to welcome Veronica Preston, author of Book of the Devil: Genesis, for an author interview with The Reading Bud.
About The Author
Veronica Preston
Veronica Preston is an author of spiritual fantasy fiction whose debut novel, Book of the Devil: Genesis, reimagines the myth of Iblis through a deeply philosophical and emotional lens. A lifelong lover of books, Veronica draws inspiration from sacred texts, spiritual philosophy, and her own reflections on morality, free will, and destiny.
Welcome to TRB! Could you provide our readers with a personal introduction beyond your official Author Bio?
I grew up surrounded by books and would often lose myself in their worlds. My first “real” job was at a library, and I loved everything about it — the smell of old pages, the towering bookcases, and the quiet, almost sacred atmosphere. These days, I gravitate toward non-fiction, which has deeply influenced my spiritual fantasy debut, Book of the Devil. Outside of writing, I love traveling and experiencing different cultures, foods, and traditions. At home, I share my space with four rescue cats who keep life lively, and I’m always on the hunt for new restaurants to try — I’m a true foodie at heart.
Beyond the blurb, can you share a unique aspect or background detail about your book’s setting or characters?
The blurb tells you the shape of the story, but not its pulse. Book of the Devil: Genesis was never meant to be just a retelling — it is the whisper of an ancient voice speaking through a modern pen. While I wrote, scenes would appear unbidden, as if the world of Nahar was pulling me inside it. One of the most vivid moments — when Iblis tears through the fabric of reality and stumbles into another dimension — wasn’t planned at all. It came to me like a vision, carrying with it the awe and terror of a being who does not yet understand the power he wields. Those moments, born of instinct rather than outline, became the heart of the story.
One of the most unique aspects of Book of the Devil: Genesis is the world of Nahar itself. It’s not just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing realm with its own laws, rhythms, and energy. The Jinn who inhabit it are born of smokeless fire, yet they carry the same moral struggles, loyalties, and flaws as we do. Iblis, in particular, is unlike any portrayal of the Devil you’ve read before—here, you meet him as a child, shaped by love, loyalty, and the quiet but inevitable tug of destiny. It’s a story that blurs the line between the mythical and the deeply human.
Every book has a starting point. What was the spark or pivotal moment that inspired you towrite this one?
I was at a crossroads in my life, questioning whether the choices I was making were right or wrong. That search led me into scripture—the Qur’an, The Three Testaments, and writings on the Jinn and Iblis, who had fascinated me since university. At the same time, I was absorbing works like The Four Agreements, Conversations with God, and The Power of Now. Those ideas began to fuse, and then—almost overnight—the story appeared in my mind, fully formed. All I had to do was write it down. I felt, and still feel, a burning desire to get this story out and I can’t explain why. That’s why I’m working on Book 2 as we speak.
Is there a core message or theme in your book that you wish readers to discover?
Yes. At its core, Book of the Devil: Genesis asks readers to reconsider what they think they know about good, evil, and the space in between. I wanted to explore the idea that the “adversary” is not always a villain in the traditional sense, but sometimes a necessary force—one that challenges, questions, and disrupts in order to bring growth or truth to light.
It’s a story about pride, obedience, love, and exile—but also about the cost of holding onto your convictions when the price is everything you value. My hope is that readers walk away not with simple answers, but with deeper questions about morality, faith, and what it truly means to stand for something.
Of all the characters in your book, do you have a personal favourite? What makes themspecial to you?
I would have to say Zahra is my personal favorite. She embodies the quiet strength I admire—spiritual, compassionate, and deeply attuned to the unseen. Zahra has the gift of foresight and the power to heal, yet she wields them with humility and grace. She is a moral anchor in the story, someone who can see beyond the immediate to the greater arc of fate. Her calm presence feels like a light in a world full of conflict, and her love is both gentle and unshakable. Writing her felt like channeling a soul who already knew the answers, even when everyone else was still searching. Though, in the book, Zahra has doubts too but her faith in God’s will is strong.
How do you approach character development, ensuring they resonate with readers andfeel authentic?
Honestly, for Book of the Devil, the characters came to me as naturally as the story did. But to ensure they truly resonated with readers, I dug deeper. I asked myself: What made them who they are? What shaped their beliefs, attitudes, and values? What kind of decisions have they made—and why? What drives them, and what do they fear? I created detailed character profiles, exploring everything from their backstories to their likes, dislikes, and education.
Writing Book 1 taught me just how much depth there is to character development—I was only scratching the surface when I began. Now I see that authenticity often comes from how characters interact with one another and whether those interactions feel true to who they are. Building that depth is a blend of knowing them intimately and allowing them to surprise you on the page.
What was the inspiration for this book? Was it an idea, an anecdote, a dream, or somethingelse?
I sometimes say it was “divine inspiration,” but in truth, the story arrived like a whisper from somewhere older than memory. It came unbidden, yet with a sense of inevitability—like it had been waiting for me to give it form.
Perhaps it’s because I have always believed in the sanctity of free will. The thought of another—be it man, spirit, or Devil—pulling the strings of my choices unsettles me. In scripture, it is said that we will stand accountable for our deeds, while the Devil, in the end, will wash his hands of us. That truth lingers with me: the burden of morality is ours, a gift and a trial from God.
This book became my way of exploring that responsibility. Beneath the story’s fire and shadow, I hope readers will feel the pull to question the forces that shape them… and to seek their own truth, no matter how hidden it may be.
How long did it take you to write this particular book?
Approximately 5 months.
Are you working on any other stories presently?
Yes—right now I’m working on Book of the Devil: Purgatory, the second book in the trilogy. In Genesis, Iblis’s story was about discovery—of himself, his power, and the divine will. Purgatory is about what happens when that power is tested to its limits.
The stakes are higher, the battles—both within and without—more dangerous. Love, loyalty, and faith will be pushed to breaking point, and Iblis will be forced to confront the cost of the path he’s chosen.
Why have you chosen this genre? Or do you write in multiple genres?
I think the genre picked me, honestly. I didn’t start out with a specific category in mind—this was simply a story I felt compelled to write for reasons I still can’t fully explain. As the writing unfolded, I realized it could fall under the fantasy genre, but it’s far from a traditional, action-heavy fantasy novel. It’s deeply spiritual, reflective, and mythic. For the next two books in the trilogy, I’ll remain in the spiritual fantasy space, but I’d also love to explore other genres—perhaps a drama loosely based on real-life events, and one day, even a dive into horror.
When did you decide to become a writer? Was it easy for you to follow your passion, or didyou have to make some sacrifices along the way?
I’ve known I wanted to be a writer since I was a little kid—I wrote my first short story in grade four and was hooked. But following that passion wasn’t straightforward. My family had other ideas for my future, so I pursued a career where I found success and fulfillment for many years. Still, there was always a quiet voice inside reminding me that I needed something to truly feed my soul. Writing kept calling me back. I’m fortunate to have a very supportive partner, and his encouragement was instrumental—not only in giving me the courage to step into writing, but also in helping me through the journey of bringing my first book to life.
What is your writing ritual? How do you do it?
I don’t have a fixed writing ritual—at least, not yet. For Book of the Devil: Genesis, the words came when they wished, and if I wasn’t tied to something important, I would sit and let them spill onto the page. If I couldn’t write in that exact moment, I made it a priority to return to the idea before it faded, capturing it while it still burned brightly in my mind.
Because this was my first book, I didn’t follow a structured routine; the process felt more like being visited by a story that insisted on being told. That said, I can already see the beginnings of a ritual forming as I move into Book 2—an evolving rhythm in how I approach storytelling, as if the act of writing itself is slowly teaching me how it wants to be done.
Editing can be a gruelling process. How do you approach revisions and self-editing?
I’m not sure how other writers do it, but I’m a big believer in the magic of a second—or even third—set of eyes. When you’re living and breathing your own story, you stop seeing the little things: the sneaky typos, the awkward sentences, or that one paragraph that made sense at 2 a.m. but reads like ancient code the next morning.
After about 100 pages, my brain waves the white flag, so I happily hand the manuscript over to a couple of trusted friends—one with an editorial background—who are brave enough to tell me the truth. For me, editing isn’t just fixing mistakes; it’s turning “almost there” into “I can’t stop reading.”
We don’t have to do it alone and it was actually a fun process for me. When it becomes mentally fatiguing, I just step away from it for a while. Having those second and third set of eyes has been pivotal in the development of book 2.
With the rise of audiobooks and multimedia experiences, have you considered exploringthese avenues for your stories?
Absolutely! In fact, I’ve already begun exploring that space. Book of the Devil: Genesis is in production as an audiobook, with a voice actor bringing Iblis to life in a way that feels both intimate and cinematic. I’m also experimenting with multimedia—book trailers, character art, and even narrated excerpts—to immerse readers in the world of Nahar beyond the page. My goal is to make the story an experience, whether you’re reading it, listening to it, or watching it unfold.
Lastly, if you were to describe your writing style in three words, what would they be?
Mythic. Philosophical. Evocative.
How do you prefer to write—computer/laptop, typewriter, dictation, or longhand with apen?
Laptop all the way. I love the freedom to edit, rearrange, and make a mess without crossing out half a page. That said, when inspiration hits and I’m not near my computer, I’ll quickly type it into the Notes app on my phone—just to capture it before it slips away. I’ve also contemplated making a big visual storyboard to hang on my wall, so I can see the entire story world at a glance and live in it while I write
What are your 5 favourite books? (You can share 5 favourite authors too.)
There are far too many to choose from, so I’ll cheat a little and pick five from different genres. Letting Go by David R. Hawkins (spiritual self-discovery), Change Your Paradigm, Change Your Life by Bob Proctor (personal growth), Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden (historical fiction), the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling (fantasy), and the Twilight saga by Stephenie Meyer (paranormal romance). Each one left its own mark on me in completely different ways.
How do you deal with Writer’s Block?
I give my mind a breather. I truly believe inspired ideas come when we sit in stillness and give them space to be heard. When writer’s block hits, I’ll turn inward—maybe meditate or simply sit with the question, ‘What’s next?’—and then deliberately step away. I might go out with a friend, take a walk, or do something completely unrelated to writing. The distance works wonders. Eventually, the answer always finds its way back to me
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
I’m still very much on my own writing journey, but if I had to offer advice, it would be this: don’t wait for the ‘perfect moment’ to start—just begin. Let your first draft be messy, raw, and unapologetic. Read widely, write often, and don’t be afraid to step away when you need to recharge. And most importantly, trust that your voice matters, even if you’re still figuring out exactly what it sounds like
Every book begins with an idea. What was the initial inspiration that led you to write thisparticular story?
I sometimes say it was “divine inspiration,” but in truth, the story arrived like a whisper from somewhere older than memory. It came unbidden, yet with a sense of inevitability—like it had been waiting for me to give it form.
Perhaps it’s because I have always believed in the sanctity of free will. The thought of another—be it man, spirit, or Devil—pulling the strings of my choices unsettles me. In scripture, it is said that we will stand accountable for our deeds, while the Devil, in the end, will wash his hands of us. That truth lingers with me: the burden of morality is ours, a gift and a trial from God.
This book became my way of exploring that responsibility. Beneath the story’s fire and shadow, I hope readers will feel the pull to question the forces that shape them… and to seek their own truth, no matter how hidden it may be.
Fantasy often tackles profound themes. What central message or theme do you hopereaders will take away from your book?
At its heart, Book of the Devil: Genesis is about choice. The power we each hold to shape our path—no matter the forces, temptations, or voices that try to sway us. It’s about the weight of free will, the courage to question, and the cost of standing by one’s convictions. I hope readers leave with the reminder that light and darkness aren’t always external—they exist within us, and our decisions determine which we nurture.
Of all the characters in your book, is there one you feel particularly close to? Why?
I would have to say Zahra is my personal favorite. She embodies the quiet strength I admire—spiritual, compassionate, and deeply attuned to the unseen. Zahra has the gift of foresight and the power to heal, yet she wields them with humility and grace. She is a moral anchor in the story, someone who can see beyond the immediate to the greater arc of fate. Her calm presence feels like a light in a world full of conflict, and her love is both gentle and unshakable. Writing her felt like channeling a soul who already knew the answers, even when everyone else was still searching. Though, in the book, Zahra has doubts too but her faith in God’s will is strong.
How do you approach character development in a fantasy setting to ensure they arerelatable to readers?
Character development is tricky enough when they’re human—try doing it for a being made of smokeless fire. My first step was to give them a form so readers could connect with them. Since scripture, especially the Qur’an, often speaks in allegory, I asked myself what could represent smokeless fire in a way that felt true to the text yet vivid for the imagination. That question sent me deep into research until the right image emerged. Once they had a body, the rest was effortless—their personalities, flaws, and quirks just seemed to step into the story, as though they’d been waiting all along for me to write them down
What served as the primary inspiration for this book? Was it an existing myth, a personalexperience, a dream, or something else entirely?
If I had to name it, I’d call it divine mischief—an idea that arrived uninvited and refused to leave. The inspiration flowed as though it had always been there, waiting for me to give it voice. Perhaps it’s because I value my autonomy and bristle at the thought of unseen forces—like the Devil—steering my actions. I believe free will is a gift from God, and with it comes the responsibility to live ethically. Scripture tells us the Devil will one day wash his hands of us, absolved of wrongdoing, leaving only our choices to speak for us. That truth stayed with me. This book is my way of wrestling with that idea and, I hope, inviting others to seek their own
How long did the process of writing this book take from inception to completion?
2 years. Approximately 5 months to write.
Are there other stories or fantasy worlds you’re currently developing?
Yes—I’m deep in the creation of Book 2 in the Book of the Devil series, Purgatory. If Genesis is the origin, then Purgatory is the crucible. Iblis has matured from an impassioned youth into a warrior in God’s army, navigating the shifting tides between duty and doubt. The story delves into the forging of Hell—not as a place of senseless torment, but as a realm of purpose—and tests the limits of forgiveness, loyalty, and destiny. This world is expanding, its shadows lengthening, and I’m eager for readers to walk deeper into it with me
What attracts you to the fantasy genre specifically? Do you explore other genres as well?
I like to think the fantasy genre chose me. I didn’t set out with a label in mind—this story arrived fully formed in my head, and I simply followed where it led. As I wrote, I realized it fit into the realm of spiritual fantasy, though it isn’t the traditional action-heavy quest type. Fantasy allows me to blend the mythical with the philosophical, to weave worlds where divine questions meet human emotion. I do plan to stay in this genre for the rest of the trilogy, but I’m also drawn to drama inspired by real life and, someday, I’d love to explore horror. I suppose I’m a storyteller first, and a genre writer second.
When did you first realise you wanted to be a writer? Was the journey straightforward, ordid you face challenges along the way?
I’ve known I wanted to be a writer since I was a little kid—I wrote my first short story in grade four and was hooked. But following that passion wasn’t straightforward. My family had other ideas for my future, so I pursued a career where I found success and fulfillment for many years. Still, there was always a quiet voice inside reminding me that I needed something to truly feed my soul. Writing kept calling me back. I’m fortunate to have a very supportive partner, and his encouragement was instrumental—not only in giving me the courage to step into writing, but also in helping me through the journey of bringing my first book to life.
Can you describe your typical writing routine?
I don’t have a fixed writing routine—at least, not yet. For Book of the Devil: Genesis, the words came when they wished, and if I wasn’t tied to something important, I would sit and let them spill onto the page. If I couldn’t write in that exact moment, I made it a priority to return to the idea before it faded, capturing it while it was still in my mind.
Because this was my first book, I didn’t follow a structured routine; the process felt more like being visited by a story that insisted on being told. That said, I can already see the beginnings of a routine forming as I move into Book 2—an evolving rhythm in how I approach storytelling, as if the act of writing itself is slowly teaching me how it wants to be done.
Editing is a crucial part of the writing process. How do you approach revisions and self-editing in the context of a fantasy narrative?
For me, editing is where the world of Nahar sharpens into focus. I’m too close to the work while drafting—too deep in the fire—to catch every flaw. That’s why I lean on trusted second (and third) sets of eyes, including a friend with an editorial background. I’ll read through, refine what I can, then hand it off. Sometimes after 100 pages my brain goes cross-eyed, so having outside perspective keeps the magic intact while catching the cracks.
How do you tackle Writer’s Block when working within the expansive boundaries offantasy?
I don’t fight it. I step away. I believe ideas often arrive when we stop chasing them. I’ll meditate, sit with the question, “What next?”, then distract myself—walks, time with friends, something unrelated. Without fail, the answer eventually pushes through the quiet.
What piece of advice would you offer to budding writers, especially those looking toventure into fantasy?
Don’t be afraid to build a world that only you could imagine—and then trust your readers to step into it. Research deeply, write boldly, and remember: the first draft isn’t meant to be perfect, it’s meant to exist.
Thank you, author Preston, for taking the time to answer our questions and for all your insightful answers!
About the Book
The Book of the Devil
This isn’t a tale of horns and pitchforks. It’s a tale of questions, echoes, and exile. Book of the Devil: Genesis reimagines the Devil as Iblis—a being of fire, loyalty, and impossible choices. Born into a world of smokeless flame, Iblis is chosen to serve God, but he begins to question the nature of obedience, justice, and divine will. His rebellion is not out of vanity, but love, sorrow, and a desire to understand. As he rises through the celestial order, Iblis walks the line between sacred and profane, setting the stage for a fall that may be more holy than it seems.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Author: Josh Martin Release Date: January 27, 2025 Series: B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You (Book 1 of 3) Genre: Horror, Mystery, Supernatural, Psychological Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 107 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Have you ever awoken from a deep sleep and still feel like you’re dreaming? A few minutes of confusion is certainly common….. But what about several months? Not so common, unfortunately. One day, not quite a year ago, it happened to me. I couldn’t shake the feeling. I could remember, and not remember, all at the same time.
Confused? Yeah, I was too…. Still am, as a matter of fact. That one morning changed everything. I mean everything. Nothing could have prepared me for the events that followed. Prepare yourself…. You’re about to see why.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You by Josh Martin is an ambitious and unsettling thriller that begins in the quiet of a Wisconsin morning but quickly spirals into a labyrinth of déjà vu, cryptic notes, phantom figures, and rules that seem to govern fate itself. Told through the eyes of a seventeen-year-old whose memory and reality keep splintering, the novel places readers in the same disoriented state as its protagonist, never sure whether he is awake, dreaming, or being manipulated by forces beyond comprehension.
The book’s strength lies in its atmosphere. From the very first pages, the story is drenched in dread. The text messages, the mysterious trio in the woods, the near-death experiences at intersections, and the omnipresent feeling of being watched create a constant sense of unease. Symbolism is cleverly threaded throughout, providing narrative cohesion even when the plot itself veers into deliberate chaos.
I must point out that the narrative often undermines itself with repetition. Tension that should build steadily sometimes loops back on itself, making the pacing sag in the middle chapters. Yet when the book works, it works brilliantly. The closing chapters bring together many of the scattered clues and escalate the narrative into cosmic horror, suggesting that the story is not merely about one boy’s fractured reality but about humanity itself being manipulated, collected, and used.
We Can’t Tell You Part 1 is a bold, eerie, and at times brilliant psychological thriller that thrives on atmosphere and symbolism. It is a gripping, confusing, and unforgettable experience that lingers long after the last page, even if the reader is left with more questions than answers.
Author: Amanda White Release Date: January 27, 2025 Series: Genre: Fantasy, Adventure Format: E-book Pages: 192 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Legends and common knowledge don’t always agree, but when it comes to wizards the facts are not so far from the stories. Both say that tunics are made from wild magic. Both say that a len who catches, tames, and puts on a tunic is a wizard. And both say that a wizard is named and known by his deeds. Take Duin the Fearless or Bjarne the Vengeful as examples. My name is Hol and I am a wizard of the kingdom of Dar.
Though this is true, what name will come from my deeds is yet unknown. From the time I was young, my mother said I would be known as Hol the Proud. The Queen once called me Hol the Loyal. The other wizards of Dar call me Hol the Upstart. Most times, I fear I will be remembered as Hol the Failed. My tunic has its own opinions about what I should be called. In fact, my tunic has opinions about everything. If it has its way, I will be known as Hol the Fortunetelling Wizard. But there hasn’t been a fortunetelling wizard in Dar in over eight hundred years and because I didn’t actually catch or tame my tunic, I fear even more that I might not even be a wizard at all. I want to prove my mother wrong. I want to prove the other wizards wrong. And most of all, even if my tunic ends up being right, I hope I prove myself wrong as well.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Amanda White’s The Fortunetelling Wizardand Other Stories from the Kingdom of Dar is a lushly imagined fantasy tale set in the kingdom of Dar, where magic is not merely spectacle but a dangerous, demanding force. At its heart is Hol, a young wizard bound to a tunic of wild magic, who dares to take on the mantle of being the fortune-telling wizard, thought to be extinct for over eight hundred years.
What makes the book so compelling is its voice. Told in first person, Hol’s narration is both intimate and wry, colored by his constant dialogue with his sentient tunic. This relationship, half companion and half conscience, lends the story a unique freshness, layering humor and heart into scenes that might otherwise veer too dark. The mythology of fortunetelling wizards is richly drawn, giving the narrative a depth of history that feels lived-in.
Thematically, the novel is about destiny versus agency. Hol is repeatedly warned that “knowing the future does not save one from it”, yet he clings to the belief that “telling the future saves others.” This tension drives the story, especially as he becomes entangled with kings, queens, banshees, and form stealers.
The book’s greatest strength, its rich and lyrical prose, is also, at times, its weakness. Sentences often seem to run long, layered with description and lore. While this creates atmosphere, it occasionally hampers pacing. A leaner approach could heighten the urgency of the plot without sacrificing its richness.
That said, author White succeeds in crafting a tale that feels both old and new. The interplay of folklore, political intrigue, and personal ambition gives the novel a layered texture, and Hol’s determination to prove himself makes him an endearing protagonist. The climactic confrontations, especially with the form stealer, are vivid, cinematic, and emotionally charged.
On the whole, The Fortunetelling Wizard is a thoughtful, atmospheric fantasy that stands out for its inventive magic system and its narrator’s unique voice. Though it could benefit from tighter pacing in places, it remains a worthy, ambitious contribution to the genre.
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author Veronica Preston for her latest release, Book of the Devil: Genesis.
Book:Book of the Devil: Genesis Author: Veronica Preston Publication Date: August 27, 2025 Available Formats: Paperback, eBook, Audiobook (coming soon) Publisher: Independently Published Genres: Spiritual Fantasy, Mythic Fiction, Speculative Fiction Page Count: 201
About the Book
This isn’t a tale of horns and pitchforks. It’s a tale of questions, echoes, and exile. Book of the Devil: Genesis reimagines the Devil as Iblis—a being of fire, loyalty, and impossible choices. Born into a world of smokeless flame, Iblis is chosen to serve God, but he begins to question the nature of obedience, justice, and divine will. His rebellion is not out of vanity, but love, sorrow, and a desire to understand. As he rises through the celestial order, Iblis walks the line between sacred and profane, setting the stage for a fall that may be more holy than it seems.
Veronica Preston is an author of spiritual fantasy fiction whose debut novel, Book of the Devil: Genesis, reimagines the myth of Iblis through a deeply philosophical and emotional lens. A lifelong lover of books, Veronica draws inspiration from sacred texts, spiritual philosophy, and her own reflections on morality, free will, and destiny.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author Eva Barber for her latest release, Unborn (Dark World).
Book: Unborn Author: Eva Barber Publication Date: December 18, 2024 Publisher: Independently Published Genres: Science Fiction Page Count: 366
About the Book
Olesya was not born like other people but was found in the Siberian Forest by a couple unable to have children. Plagued by mysterious visions and dreams, she struggles to fit into a society both as a socially inept but brilliant child and as she becomes part of a research team to discover the nature of dark matter. The findings of this discovery never make it to the scientific community as the project leader goes missing and the physics lab blows up, destroyed by a powerful foe with seemingly noble intentions. Seattle detectives question Olesya in connection with the explosion and the disappearance of her boss. She becomes a person of interest until she goes missing. From her kidnappers, she learns that her parents, knowing she lacked a belly button, suspected she was created by the Russian government as part of a scientific experiment, and emigrated to the USA to hide and protect her. She also learns she possesses powers related to dark matter and of the existence of a brother held captive since his discovery by the Russian government. Even though she suspects her kidnappers’ interest in her and their motivations aren’t so noble, she joins them in rescuing her brother. Catastrophic world events following the successful rescue force her to continue working with her foes to save the world from destruction. While working to save the world, Olesya experiences a moral dilemma and becomes someone she never thought she’d be—a mother. Olesya learns of mysterious chambers scattered around the world, and her visions return to haunt her, until she opens the chambers and learns their secrets, wishing she hadn’t. Now she faces the heart-wrenching realization that she must travel into a dark dimension to save the world from self-destruction. Worse yet, her daughter, Emery, is the key to humanity’s salvation and must follow her mother once she becomes an adult because she is the only being who can travel where no one else can to restore balance to the universe and return with an extraordinary gift for humanity. But powerful entities have reasons to keep the gift away from humanity and will do anything to stop her.
Eva currently lives in Washington State. She is a biologist and artist and is passionate about books and storytelling. Eva’s firsthand experience growing up in the Soviet-era Eastern Block adds a unique perspective and a distinct dimension to her stories. When she is not painting or writing, she spoils her two mutts and her husband, Mike, with treats and attention (not necessarily in that order). Her debut novel, Misunderstanding, won a Literary Titan Silver Book Award given to an outstanding author who has captivated her audience with skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. The award recognized it as a book that stands out for its innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author Josh Martin for his debut supernatural thriller series release, B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You: Parts 1, 2, and 3.
Book: B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You Author: Josh Martin Publication Date: July 20, 2024 Publisher: Independently Published Genres: Mystery, Supernatural Thriller, Horror Page Count: 100
About the Book
From Book 1: Have you ever awoken from a deep sleep and still feel like you’re dreaming? A few minutes of confusion is certainly common….. But what about several months? Not so common, unfortunately. One day, not quite a year ago, it happened to me. I couldn’t shake the feeling. I could remember, and not remember, all at the same time. Confused? Yeah, I was too…. Still am, as a matter of fact. That one morning changed everything. I mean everything. Nothing could have prepared me for the events that followed. Prepare yourself….
You’re about to see why.
You can find B&G Mystery: We Can’t Tell You here: Amazon
About The Author
Josh Martin
Bio – Josh is happily married and a father to two awesome boys. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2007 with a major in Sociology. The B&G Mystery series is his first published work.
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Welcome to the TRB Lounge. Today, we are featuring author Amanda White for her latest release, The Fortune Telling Wizard and Other Stories from The Kingdom of Dar.
Book: The Fortunetelling Wizard And Other Stories From the Kingdom of Dar Author: Amanda White Publication Date: January 27, 2025 Publisher: Amanda White Genres: Fantasy Page Count: 192
About the Book
Legends and common knowledge don’t always agree, but when it comes to wizards the facts are not so far from the stories. Both say that tunics are made from wild magic. Both say that a len who catches, tames, and puts on a tunic is a wizard. And both say that a wizard is named and known by his deeds. Take Duin the Fearless or Bjarne the Vengeful as examples. My name is Hol and I am a wizard of the kingdom of Dar. Though this is true, what name will come from my deeds is yet unknown. From the time I was young, my mother said I would be known as Hol the Proud. The Queen once called me Hol the Loyal. The other wizards of Dar call me Hol the Upstart. Most times, I fear I will be remembered as Hol the Failed. My tunic has its own opinions about what I should be called. In fact, my tunic has opinions about everything. If it has its way, I will be known as Hol the Fortunetelling Wizard. But there hasn’t been a fortunetelling wizard in Dar in over eight hundred years and because I didn’t actually catch or tame my tunic, I fear even more that I might not even be a wizard at all. I want to prove my mother wrong. I want to prove the other wizards wrong. And most of all, even if my tunic ends up being right, I hope I prove myself wrong as well.
Amanda White is a fantasy and literary fiction writer. With a firmness of heart, she believes as Toni Morrison said, “If you find a book you really want to read but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” More and more, she sees the need for books with valiantly good characters, worlds that can be fixed, and hopeful and optimistic endings. This is not to say that her characters don’t have flaws (doesn’t everyone?), make the wrong choices, or have the occasional (or frequent) fit of temper. This is not to say that the worlds represented aren’t already broken or quite imperfect. This is not to say there isn’t plot, plotting, loss, pain, or growth. But rather that, overall, as the stories unfold, optimism wins out over pessimism and the hope that is served up both hot and cold is flavorful enough to taste.
She currently lives in Dallas, Texas where she dreams of mountains and high-altitude, low-humidity air and (barely) survives city living by being close enough to her young nephew and niece to play whatever it is they want to play (usually and often something to do with Pokemon or unicorns).
If you are an author and wish to be featured as our guest or if you are a publicist and want to get your author featured on TRB, then please get in touch directly by e-mail at thereadingbud@gmail.com
Author: Allen Wyler Release Date: 7 July 2025 Series: Deadly Odds Genre: Medical Thriller, Thriller, Cyber Thriller, Suspense Format: E-book Pages: 281 pages Publisher: Stairway Press Blurb: On a Sunday morning, an unsuspecting parishioner collapses on the steps of a church. Moments later the CEO of a cardiac pacemaker company receives a phone call from an electronically distorted voice demanding that they shutter their business by the end of the week, or he will continue to kill implanted patients. Arnold Gold’s team of cyber detectives must now race the clock to track down the hacker’s identity and stop him before he can kill other innocent victims. Arnold Gold and his team of techie geniuses break their vow—no new clients—when a hacker launches a deadly game targeting AI-driven pacemakers. Another heart-stopping read from Allen Wyler.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Deadly Odds 8.0 by Andy Wyler is a tightly woven medical cyber-thriller that feels both frighteningly plausible and compulsively readable. The story opens with a seemingly ordinary Sunday morning at church, shattered when a parishioner collapses, his AI-driven pacemaker fatally compromised. Almost immediately, the CEO of a cardiac device company is threatened by a faceless hacker: shut down your operations or more people will die.
Enter Arnold Gold and his team of cyber detectives. Known for their vow of taking on no new clients, they are forced to break it when lives hang in the balance. What follows is a relentless chase through the shadowy world of hacking, corporate sabotage, and medical technology vulnerabilities.
What I loved most about this book is how author Wyler blends medical science with cutting-edge cyber warfare. The plot is terrifying because it’s plausible, the idea that someone could weaponize pacemakers through AI isn’t far-fetched in our world of interconnected devices. That plausibility gives every chapter a pulse of urgency.
Arnold, with his brilliant but socially awkward demeanor, anchors the story. His sharp intellect paired with his team’s collective skills makes for some clever, nail-biting investigative sequences. At the same time, author Wyler doesn’t lose sight of the human stakes: each victim is a reminder that this isn’t just a game of codes and firewalls, it’s about real lives being extinguished with a keystroke.
The pacing is tight, the tension unrelenting, and the moral questions layered just enough to keep you thinking even as you flip the pages in a rush.
Deadly Odds 8.0 is another heart-stopping entry from Allen Wyler, perfect for readers who enjoy thrillers that merge medical technology, cybercrime, and high-stakes suspense. If you’re looking for a story that feels both entertaining and frighteningly possible, this one’s a must-read.
The Reading Bud 