Author: S.A. Sterling Release Date: 26 October 2025 Series: Genre: Memoir Format: E-book Pages: 70 pages Publisher: – Blurb: 2:47 a.m. Again. For two years, she woke in the quiet hours—when the house slept, when the world felt suspended between night and morning. In that stillness, she began to write. AWAKE is a collection of sixty nights lived in real time: the hum of insomnia, the weight of perimenopause, the questions that surface at 3 a.m. when defenses are down. These pages don’t offer solutions. They offer presence. For anyone who’s ever felt alone in the dark hours, this book is company.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
AWAKE: Notes from the Quiet Hours by S.A. Sterling is a gentle, meditative, and moving memoir.
Told through short entries written during real bouts of insomnia, AWAKE reads like a midnight journal, part memoir, part meditation, part conversation with yourself. Author Sterling’s writing covers drifting thoughts from the small rituals of staying awake to ponderings on motherhood, ageing, marriage, memory, loss, and the strange kind of clarity that only arrives when the world is still.
There’s a beautiful rhythm to the entries. Some nights are fleeting with a single page of observation about her hands or the hum of the fridge, while others open like essays about belonging, identity, or the ache of loving people from afar. The language is spare but lyrical; each sentence feels distilled, honest, and unadorned. What makes it powerful is the intimacy, that rare feeling of being trusted with someone’s unfiltered 3 a.m. thoughts.
Author Sterling’s greatest gift as a writer lies in her ability to turn exhaustion into revelation. She writes of menopause, motherhood, migration, and midlife with a rawness that never feels self-pitying. There’s humour here too, and grace in the smallest acts: warming her feet, watching the rain, whispering “you again” to her reflection at 2:38 a.m. By the end, you realise AWAKE is about awareness, about being fully alive even in the quietest, most uncertain moments.
Author: Richard French Release Date: 17 November 2025 Series: Convergence Series Genre: Dystopian, Speculative Fiction, Cyberpunk, Metaphysical Sci-Fi Format: E-book Pages: 393 pages Publisher: Indie Pen Press Blurb: In a world where emotions are harvested as hazardous waste, an elite Collector absorbs a child’s love—and awakens. Senior Collector Emma Thorne is the state’s most precise weapon until a four-year-old’s pure love fractures her conditioning. When her collection field fails on an immune stranger, everything she believes crumbles. Emma discovers the brutal truth: emotions aren’t waste—they’re living energy linked to planetary health, and the Council’s “peace” is killing the world. Her mother is the architect of suppression. Project Terminus will permanently sever human feeling within hours. For readers who devoured Delirium and The Giver, but crave the hard science and hope of Nexus. To save humanity, she must sacrifice everything she is to restore the world’s heart. Pre-order your copy now and be one of the first to discover what happens when the weapon learns to love.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Emotion Collector: Awakening by Richard French blends science fiction, philosophy, and pure human emotion into something that defies easy categorization. It is an ambitious, multi-layered exploration of emotion, memory, morality, and what it truly means to feel.
The premise is instantly fascinating: in a world where emotions can be extracted, stored, and traded, one person begins to question whether humanity is losing the very thing that makes it human. But this isn’t just a cyberpunk “what if,” it’s a deeply reflective journey through consciousness, loss, and redemption. French uses his protagonist’s awakening as a mirror for all of us, how much of our inner life is ours to control, and how much is shaped by the systems we live within?
What makes the novel shine is its philosophical and psychological richness. French intertwines emotional introspection with speculative science, blurring the line between technology and spirituality. The world-building is subtle but effective, while the emotional undercurrents remain raw. Each supporting character feels like a fragment of the larger question the novel poses: can emotion exist without consequence, or is pain the price of depth?
Stylistically, The Emotion Collector: Awakening balances poetic introspection with crisp pacing. French’s prose has rhythm, with one moment meditative and the next sharp and cinematic. Thematically, it sits comfortably alongside works like Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro or The Giver by Lois Lowry, but its voice is entirely its own, more speculative and abstract, with a touch of existential wonder.
The Emotion Collector: Awakening is a beautifully written exploration of emotion, consciousness, and control. This book offers both intellectual stimulation and emotional resonance, a rare and rewarding combination.
Author: David Morabito Release Date: 30 September 2025 Series: Genre: Format: E-book Pages: 269 pages Publisher: – Blurb: This novel continues where the Night of the Fisherman left off and is packed with suspense, fantasy, and romance as well as elements of science fiction with shrouded references to quantum physics. The characters are instantly transported between different realms in the cosmos using wormholes where the entry and exit ports are defined by clocks composed of mysterious substances. Each clock is the mirror image of the other, with each working backwards from the other. We follow the exploits of the intriguing dark character known as the Old Clock Peddler, who sells paired clocks to unsuspecting consumers in different worlds causing interesting and unexpected interactions between diverse populations of beings. All the while, the Peddler has mysterious interactions with the characters caught up in his intergalactic web of intrigue, which include Lexicon, the principality of Yore and the land of the Druids
Intrigue continues to follow two of the main characters from Night of the Fisherman, Fish (a.k.a. the Fisherman) and Kara in the 1950’s-1960’s suburban town of Lexicon. They along with other neighbors now have to contend with the power-hungry Surf, the surviving son of Poppa, who previously terrorized the local neighborhood and beyond. All the while, the character known as the dark Entity lurks about ready to do Surf’s bidding. A secret society in Lexicon known as the City Fathers anoints Surf as their new Boss in their quest to amass more power and wealth, after the death of Poppa. A shady slimy lawyer named McAlister Bilge aids Surf in his quest for more power and wealth. Other neighbors such as little Elmo get caught up in the intrigue as well as the old man Mr. Ages, now reunited with his long lost son after several decades, Tommy, who once served as King of Yore under the name of Twede. A host of new characters are introduced, including three college students, one of which believes he understands the physics of instantaneous intergalactic transport, while another desires Kara, the Fisherman’s girlfriend, to be his own. Frank Knightlite, a heroic figure in the small town of Lexicon, is known to shed light within the bowels of darkness. Aisling is a young Irish lass whose family got marooned in the strange world of mutated descendants of the Druids, courtesy of one of the Peddler’s wormholes. She gets rescued by the Fisherman and Frank Knightlite, who use a recently reestablished porthole to bring her back to Lexicon and eventually to that big green island across the sea to be united with her surviving relatives. Frank Knightlite has a clandestine encounter with Leena, the terrified and neglected young wife of Surf, in order to extract needed information from her. In the Kingdom of Yore, an ensuing power struggle is in the works as Renigade a wayward Elder had escaped the palace dungeon and seeks to solidify a power sharing pact with Surf. The small gnomish person Georgos contributes to the drama as he again is put into service by his dethroned king Twede, now known as Tommy Ages. Twede reunites with his love Tarala when the porthole between Lexicon and Yore is reestablished by the Peddler. It is later disclosed that Surf has an estranged brother who covets what Surf has and is determined to claim all that Surf inherited from Poppa as his birthright. Finally, the novel climaxes at the scene of the lake of fire, a huge cauldron-like depression in the planetary surface of Yore. Here, Surf plans to send his prisoners to their demise in the same way his Poppa attempted in the Night of the Fisherman. However, Surf does not count on having to contend with his brother as they confront each other near the precipice of the fiery lake, as the prisoners look on while the drama unfolds in unexpected and suspenseful ways.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
The Old Clock Peddler by David Morabito is an unapologetically ambitious novel that dares to blend genres, timelines, and entire worlds into a single, intricate story. It is a heady mix of fantasy, science fiction, suspense, and myth that asks what happens when the very fabric of time becomes a weapon in the wrong hands. Picking up after Night of the Fisherman, it expands that universe into something grander, stranger, and far more cosmic, where wormholes, quantum portals, and mirrored clocks connect realities that feel both familiar and fantastical.
The brilliance of the story lies in how author Morabito balances the ordinary and the extraordinary. One moment we’re in the 1950s suburbia of Lexicon, with neighbors feuding and secret societies pulling strings; the next, we’re swept into Yore, a world of Druids, monarchs, and celestial intrigue. At the heart of it all is the enigmatic Old Clock Peddler, a merchant of fate who trades in time itself, selling paired clocks that open portals between realms. His motives remain tantalizingly ambiguous, and that ambiguity fuels the novel’s haunting energy. What makes it even more fascinating is the undercurrent of quantum theory, not just as science, but as philosophy, questioning whether actions in one reality can truly be separated from another.
Returning characters like Fish (the Fisherman) and Kara anchor the story emotionally, while newcomers like Frank Knightlite, Aisling, and Leena add texture and momentum. Author Morabito writes with cinematic vision: his worlds shimmer with contrast, from suburban intrigue to interplanetary warfare, yet he never loses sight of the emotional threads laced with loyalty, love, and the eternal struggle for power.
By the time the story barrels toward its climax at the fiery lake of Yore, it feels like watching mythology and physics collide as it gets unpredictable, charged, and strangely moving. The Old Clock Peddler isn’t a light read; it’s sprawling, layered, and packed with ideas. But for readers who love universe-spanning sagas and thoughtful science-fantasy with heart, this book offers a rare kind of satisfaction, the sense of stepping into a world both ancient and ahead of its time.
Author: Melanie Anagnos Release Date: 8 July 2025 Series: The Jamie Palmieri Mystery Genre: Crime Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 320 pages Publisher: High Frequency Press Blurb: Paterson, New Jersey, 1979: Jamie Palmieri is an up-and-coming patrol officer, three years out of the academy and frustrated with his slow rise to detective. That all changes one frigid night in January, when a double homicide at a local bar leaves the owner and a young woman dead. In the wake of the Rubin “Hurricane” Carter proceedings and the city’s lingering distrust for the police, Jamie is told to expect a “no one saw a thing” investigation. But as Jamie traces a series of small leads, he’s sent on a path where the tables turn suddenly – with the still-unknown killer now stalking Jamie and the people he’s closest to. A classic police procedural charged with the social turbulence of the 1970s.
Editorial Reviews
“Anagnos smartly uses the structure of the police procedural to probe the ways in which the 1970s were both an incredibly progressive and sneakily regressive time for women – and the ways men struggled to keep up when things were changing at such a dizzying clip…and brings Paterson, at this juncture, to vivid life.”
– Sarah Weinman, The New York TimesBook Review
“…debut novelist Anagnos sweats so many procedural details of Jamie’s painstaking investigation that you’ll sweat along with him. The real star of this show is Paterson, which feels as menacing, vivid, and multilayered as Walter Mosley’s Watts.” – Kirkus Review
“Nightswimming is my favorite kind of crime novel-rich, character-driven crime that drops me right into the action. Melanie Anagnos beautifully conjures a 1970s Paterson, New Jersey that feels so lived in, I practically teleported. This is just the best kind of noir-a crime as complex and relevant today as it ever was, a world where one good man can still make a difference. I cannot wait to dive back into the world of Jamie Palmieri!” -Halley Sutton, USA Today bestselling author of The Hurricane Blonde
“Contemplative, pacy, and with a setting so vivid you can taste the industrial grit on your tongue. Paterson, New Jersey in the late 1970s is not a place I’ve ever yearned to visit; by the time I reached the propulsive climax of Anagnos’s story, I never wanted to leave.”
– Kat Rosenfield, author of the Edgar Award-nominated thriller, No One Will Miss Her
“… all the intrigue, twists, turns, and danger one would hope for in a great crime novel. Anagnos has written a compassionate, emphatic, sweet and sexy protagonist who I not only like but love…A page turner is an understatement. Nightswimming pulls you in and doesn’t let you go.” -Patricia TM Dunn, author of the award-winning novel, Her Father’s Daughter
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Nightswimming by Melanie Anagnos is a debut that feels both nostalgic and freshly alive, a story rooted in the grit of the past but pulsing with emotional immediacy. It is a taut, character-driven police procedural set in Paterson, New Jersey, 1979, that manages to be both a gripping crime story and a deeply emotional portrait of a man trying to do right in a city and an era where justice rarely runs straight.
The story follows Jamie Palmieri, a young patrol officer desperate to move up the ranks when a double homicide lands on his desk. What begins as a straightforward investigation soon becomes something much darker; a labyrinth of distrust, corruption, and obsession that blurs the line between cop and prey. Author Anagnos captures the tension of the procedural perfectly with the long hours, the frustrating leads, and the constant second-guessing, but it’s Jamie’s emotional exploration that makes the book truly unforgettable. He’s vulnerable, principled, and haunted, the kind of protagonist readers root for not because he’s flawless, but because he’s real.
What impressed me most is how Anagnos balances crime and context. This isn’t just a mystery about two murders; it’s a story about a city in transition, still reeling from the Rubin “Hurricane” Carter trials, simmering with racial tension, gender shifts, and working-class despair. The author’s depiction of 1970s Paterson is vivid and sensory, you can feel the industrial grit on your skin, smell the cigarette smoke in the station house, hear the uneasy quiet between officers who no longer trust each other. The prose is clean and cinematic, the pacing steady and deliberate until it explodes into moments of real danger.
Overall, Nightswimming is astriking debut. It is atmospheric, emotionally intelligent, and perfectly paced. Nightswimming blends the precision of classic noir with the introspection of modern literary crime. Perfect for readers of Dennis Lehane, Tana French, or anyone who loves their mysteries layered with heart and history.
Author: Adam Fike Release Date: 20 March 2025 Series: PEOPLE MAKING DANGER Genre: Noir, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller, Psychological Format: E-book Pages: 76 pages Publisher: – Blurb: NOIR MYSTERY – A dead escaped convict finds himself, and his redemption, at the hometown robbery where a gunshot began his criminal career. PEOPLE MAKING DANGER is a collection of quick, fun, three-act, feature-length stories, full of suspense, surprises and dark humor. Reading. Why not do it for fun sometimes? More at AdamFike.com/books All Rights Reserved
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Yardley County by Adam Fike is a slow-burning, deeply atmospheric story that captures the loneliness of rural life and the small, almost imperceptible shifts that change everything. It’s the kind of book that takes its time, inviting you to settle into the rhythms of its world before showing you the fractures beneath its surface.
Set in a fictional southern county, the novel threads together the lives of characters bound by place and silence. Fike has a poet’s ear for dialogue, sparse but loaded, and a painter’s eye for setting. You can almost feel the humidity of late summer, the creak of porch boards, and the oppressive stillness of a town that’s seen too much yet talks too little. What unfolds is part mystery, part psychological portrait, and part elegy: a meditation on guilt, grief, and the tendency to bury what we can’t face.
What I found remarkable is how Fike resists melodrama. His writing is restrained but emotionally sharp; every revelation feels earned. The characters linger long after the final page because they feel real. There’s empathy even in their worst choices, and Fike uses that empathy to build tension in the best of ways. The moral questions the novel raises, about justice, memory, and forgiveness, unfold slowly, like the unspooling of a long-held confession.
Yardley County is a haunting, beautifully crafted work of literary suspense. It’s a story that’s less about what happens and more about how it feels to live with what’s happened. Perfect for readers of Kent Haruf, Celeste Ng, or Where the Crawdads Sing, it’s an unforgettable exploration of a tender heart under pressure.
Author:Richard French Release Date: 8 July 2025 Series: Part of: The Convergence Series (2 books) Genre: Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 530 pages Publisher: Indie Pen Press Blurb: When reality fractures, love becomes the ultimate weapon. Engineer Samantha Reed’s perfectly ordered world explodes the night golden light erupts from her hands. Across the city, artist Connor Blake watches impossible shadows flow from his sculptures, defying every law of physics. Neither understands that these abilities mark them as living echoes of souls who died 150 years ago—souls who sacrificed themselves to save reality itself. Now reality is breaking again. Cosmic forces write aurora patterns across daylight skies. Reality storms tear through populated sectors. And the zealous Williams organization deploys weapons designed to destroy souls so completely that no form of existence—not even reincarnation—would survive.
But Samantha and Connor are more than just targets. They’re the key to completing a restoration that was interrupted a century and a half ago. As shared dreams and inexplicable compulsions draw them together, they discover their connection transcends this lifetime—and that their growing love might be the only force powerful enough to heal wounds carved into the fabric of existence itself. The hunt is closing in. Reality won’t wait. And some bonds are stronger than death. Margaret Carter, guardian of forbidden historical knowledge, races to reach them before the Williams assassins strike. Emergency coordinator Nina Reyes struggles to protect civilians as magical disasters escalate beyond all containment. And deep in classified archives, evidence emerges that everything the magical authorities believe about unified consciousness—and the couple who wields it—is catastrophically wrong. In this breathtaking sequel to The Convergence: Broken Magic, two souls separated by lifetimes must choose between individual survival and cosmic salvation. Their victory heals the broken reality around them, letting them become guides for a restored world while keeping both their love and their lives.. Perfect for readers who loved The Ten Thousand Doors of January, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, and The Priory of the Orange Tree. ⭐ Enemies-to-lovers across family bloodlines ⭐ Reincarnated soulmates with preserved memories ⭐ Contemporary fantasy with hidden magical history ⭐ Engineer meets artist in a love story that could heal the universe ⭐ Complex worldbuilding with philosophical depth Some missions transcend individual authority. Some love transcends time itself.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Convergence: Restoration by Richard French is the sequel to The Convergence: Broken Magicand it doesn;t just continue the story, it deepens it, revealing new dimensions that make you see the first book in an entirely new light. Picking up after Broken Magic, it expands the series’ universe in breathtaking ways, weaving together romance, philosophy, and speculative science into a narrative that feels as intimate as it is cosmic.
At its heart are Samantha and Connor, two people drawn together by forces older than memory itself. What begins as a story of survival quickly evolves into something much larger, a meditation on destiny, choice, and the enduring power of connection across lifetimes. Author French balances these high-concept ideas with brilliant emotional balance; the bond between his leads feels real and raw, even as they face realities that bend time, physics, and spiritual law. It’s that balance, between the epic and the personal, that gives Restoration its resonance.
What truly stands out for me is the philosophical depth behind the fantasy. French explores the nature of consciousness and love not as abstractions but as forces capable of reshaping existence itself. The supporting characters serve as lenses through which the reader witnesses the clash between old magic and new understanding. The world-building is rich and intricate, but never overwhelming; it feels like stepping into a grand, hidden architecture of reality that’s slowly being restored, one choice at a time.
By the time the story reaches its climax, The Convergence: Restoration becomes not just a tale of two soulmates but a story about collective healing, about how connection, compassion, and memory can literally rebuild the broken. It’s equal parts thrilling, tender, and thought-provoking, the kind of speculative fiction that stays with you long after you close the book.
The Convergence: Restoration is a sweeping, emotional, and intellectually satisfying sequel that fuses science, magic, and love into something transcendent. it is perfect for readers who adored The Ten Thousand Doors of January or The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, and for anyone drawn to stories where love isn’t just a feeling but a force of creation.
Author: Adam Williams Release Date: 1 November 2025 Series: Genre: Historical Mystery, Suspense Format: E-book Pages: 382 pages Publisher: Earnshaw Books Ltd Blurb: Egypt 1099 CE, Qahira (Cairo) Samuel, a Jewish doctor versed in alchemy, and Gregory, his English apprentice, are investigating a terrifying plague. The Nile has turned red with blood and fish are dying. Near a small island, they wrangle a badly torn body from the jaws of a crocodile — but was this beast the killer? Samuel suspects foul play yet the authorities block his efforts to find the truth at every step. Ignoring the warnings from people in high places, and with nothing more to guide him than his scientific method, Samuel is determined to persist in his quest, especially after a series of gruesome murders seem to confirm his early suspicion.
Little does he know that the secret he will stumble on could shake the empire. Assassins are on the prowl. A child is being hunted. Who finds him first will change the course of history..
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
A River of Blood by Adam Williams is a richly textured historical mystery set in 1099 Egypt, where science, faith, and power collide. Set across Fustat and Qahira (old Cairo), the book opens in a world of scholarship, court intrigue, and gathering dread. Author Williams anchors the story in a striking image: the Nile “turning to blood” and fish dying, a scientific mystery that echoes Exodus while refusing easy mysticism. It’s a hook that blends atmosphere, theology, and empiricism in one sweep, and it pulled me in immediately.
The characterisation is brilliant and the world-building is superb. Author Williams weaves theology and politics into the mystery, so the stakes are never just “whodunnit,” but who gets to define truth: the scholar, the priest, or the state. The prose is clean and vivid; action beats snap, but what really stays with you are the moral compromises people make to survive the empire.
Without spoiling the turns, I will share that the volume closes on an earned pivot toward Jerusalem, with a neat blend of intimate vow and geopolitical fuse. It’s a satisfying end-point for Book 1. I turned the last page both satisfied and hungry for the continuation. A River of Blood is a learned and atmospheric historical crime mystery that mirrors Umberto Eco’s curiosity with Michael Jecks’ momentum. For readers who like their mysteries braided with theology, politics, and human tenderness, this will be a perfect read.
Author: Sloane Mercer Release Date: 2 October 2025 Series: Genre: Psychological Thriller, Political Thriller, Terrorism/Espionage Thriller, Literary Suspense, International Intrigue Format: E-book Pages: 193 pages Publisher: AMEE Publishing Blurb: Everyone’s the hero in their story. Even the monsters. Jake Rossi, a Capitol crewman trying to rebuild his life, isn’t looking for meaning — just a paycheck, a place to belong, maybe someone to talk to. Then he meets Emily, a reserved Belgian chocolatier with a scar on her collarbone and eyes that never blink. Her silence is magnetic. Her past, untouchable.
But the closer Jake gets, the more off-kilter things begin to feel. Curiosity twists into obsession. Obsession curdles into fear. Is Emily a survivor haunted by shadows, or the shadow itself? Every answer Jake uncovers only deepens the riddle, and every step closer drags him toward a truth too dangerous to name. By the time the city gathers under banners and floodlights, it may already be too late. For readers of dark, atmospheric, slow-burning psychological thrillers with flawed heroes and razor-wire tension, Catalyst will keep you turning pages deep into the night.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Catalyst by Sloane Mercer is the kind of slow-burning psychological thriller that creeps under your skin rather than rushing to shock you. Sloane Mercer’s writing carries that rare balance of elegance and unease, drawing you in with the intimacy of character before you even realize you’re standing at the edge of something dark.
The brilliance of this story lies in its tension, not the loud, cinematic kind, but the quiet, suffocating kind that makes you second-guess what’s real. As Jake’s fascination with Emily deepens, the novel turns into an exploration of obsession, perception, and the fragility of sanity. Mercer’s prose is clean and deliberate, every sentence calibrated to tighten the thread of unease. You start to feel as though you’re peering through a fog, seeing outlines of truth but never the whole picture. And that’s precisely what makes Catalyst addictive; it’s less about solving a mystery and more about descending into it.
Jake is written with a refreshing honesty. He is flawed, lonely, and relatable. He’s not a classic hero; he’s someone doing his best to survive the static of his own mind. Emily, on the other hand, is mesmerizing; part riddle, part mirror , and Mercer wisely resists defining her too soon. Through their fractured connection, the book asks a chilling question: what happens when our need to understand someone else exposes the darkness in ourselves? By the time the truth begins to surface, you realize Catalyst isn’t just about the main character, but about the stories we tell to justify the monsters we become.
Catalyst is atmospheric, introspective, and razor-sharp. It’s a dark psychological thriller that trades jump scares for slow, emotional corrosion. It is perfect for readers who loved Gone Girl or You, and crave stories that linger long after the last page.
Author: Richard French Release Date: 1 March 2025 Series: Convergence Series Genre: Dystopian, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 184 pages Publisher: Indie Pen Press Blurb: Federation Enforcer Samantha Reed has orders to kill Connor Blake—the one person whose soul was torn from hers when the Federation shattered magic itself. Reality is fracturing across the galaxy as the Convergence approaches, a cosmic force trying to heal what was broken. The Federation claims Connor’s rebellion is causing the breakdown, but when Samantha confronts him, stolen memories surface: their connection isn’t coincidence—it’s the echo of a bond artificially severed centuries ago.
Their unified magic doesn’t combine separate powers—it remembers what they were before the Federation broke everything apart. But every moment they spend reconnected awakens the truth the Federation desperately hides: the artificial separation is failing, and only their restored unity can stabilize reality’s collapse. As the cosmos continues to unravel, the Federation’s leader plans to use the Convergence’s healing energy as a weapon to make the separation permanent—even if it destroys existence in the process. The choice isn’t between order and chaos, but between artificial control and natural wholeness. For readers who devoured Shadow and Bone and The Ten Thousand Doors of January, this is forbidden unity with the fate of reality hanging in the balance. When remembering their true connection means choosing between Federation loyalty and cosmic healing, will Samantha embrace what was stolen from them—or let the universe fracture forever to preserve a lie? Get your copy now and discover why some bonds refuse to stay broken.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Every once in a while, I stumble on a sci-fantasy that feels both classic and new, and The Convergence: Broken Magic did exactly that for me. Richard French builds a world where magic has been split (politically, philosophically, and literally) and the cost of that fracture touches everything. What I loved most is how the book stays emotional even while juggling heady ideas; the opening teases the cosmic stakes with “shadow and light” patterns that feel sentient, immediately hinting this isn’t just good-vs-evil but a deeper question of how things were broken, and whether they can be made whole again.
The chapters (especially in the middle) blend brisk action with chewy ideas about power, control, and institutional memory without drowning you in exposition. I especially enjoyed how the story frames “unified” magic as something natural and healing, while forced control breaks people and worlds; a theme that gives the battles real emotional stakes.
Author French’s prose is clean and unfussy, letting the math-meets-myth logic of the magic system carry the wonder. The antagonist’s motivation, born from trauma and fear, adds dimension to the conflict and avoids mustache-twirling; policy, paranoia, and grief entwine into a believable agenda that feels tragically real. This nuance makes the late-book confrontations land harder because the “villain” isn’t simply wrong; he’s convincingly afraid of what ungoverned power can do.
The finale pays off the promise of the title, with sacrifice, restoration, and an earned sense of hope. Without spoiling anything: the book argues that wholeness requires consent and cost, not coercion, which is a beautiful take for a series opener. I closed the book feeling satisfied yet curious about where this universe goes next, which is always my favorite way to end the first in a series. If you like high-stakes magic systems grounded in character and consequence, this belongs on your TBR.
Author: Thomas C. HoseyDPM Release Date: 31 July 2025 Series: Genre: Thriller, Psychological Thriller, Suspense Format: E-book Pages: 260 pages Publisher: Pegasus Publishers Blurb: Ian thought his quiet life was safe-until the night his uncle was brutally murdered. Narrowly escaping the same fate, Ian finds himself relentlessly pursued by a shadowy organization determined to silence him. Desperate and alone, he reconnects with Nicki, his former college love, a brilliant hacker, and someone with a knack for uncovering secrets.
Together, they dive into the dark web, unearthing a horrifying secret: a human trafficking cult known as the Church of Redemption, led by the ruthless Supreme Pastor Rick-the man responsible for Ian’s uncle’s death. As Ian and Nicki work to expose the cult, they uncover a web of corruption and terror that runs deeper than they imagined. Packed with suspense, danger, and moral dilemmas, “The Supreme Pastor” is a high-stakes thriller that will keep you on the edge until the final explosive twist.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Supreme Pastor by Thomas C. Hosey DPM is an intense, unsettling thriller that grabs you from the first page and doesn’t let go. Thomas Hosey builds his story around a terrifying cult hidden deep in rural America, a community ruled by manipulation, fear, and blind devotion. What begins as a quiet introduction to a mysterious world quickly spirals into a gripping tale of control, violence, and survival. Author Hosey’s pacing is taut, his atmosphere charged with paranoia, and his storytelling filled with moments that make your pulse quicken.
What impressed me most was how emotional the story feels, even in its darkest moments. The novel explores the kind of psychological and emotional control that allows people to surrender their will, not just out of fear, but sometimes out of desperate faith. The titular Supreme Pastor is a chilling antagonist, both charismatic and monstrous, and the world he commands feels disturbingly real.
Yet, beneath all the tension and violence, there’s a thread of emotionality that grounds the book. The characters, those trapped inside the cult and those trying to save them, are not just pawns in a thriller plot; they’re flawed, hopeful, and painfully realistic. Their choices carry emotional weight, and the moments of courage, even the smallest ones, shine all the brighter against the darkness surrounding them.
The Supreme Pastor is not an easy read as it’s raw, sometimes brutal, and emotionally charged, but it’s also powerful and deeply thought-provoking. It exposes the danger of blind faith, the seduction of power, and the resilience of those who dare to resist. Author Hosey has written a thriller that’s not just about escaping a cult; it’s about reclaiming one’s will and voice. It is perfect for fans of fast-paced thrillers with high-stakes action and thrills.
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: 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: 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.
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.
Author: James Dunlop Release Date: February 23, 2025 Series: The Misjudgements of Andy MacKay (Book 1) Genre: Action, Thriller, Suspense, Conspiracy Format: E-book Pages: 312 pages Publisher: EXPURGATED PRESS Blurb: How far would you go for a friend? Andrew MacKay, the sort who’d sooner bet his last penny on a losing horse than lift a finger for anything resembling responsibility, is about to find out. An incurable gambler, chain-smoker, and binge drinker, Andy’s only real talent lies in outliving his own poor choices. But when his mate is shot dead and robbed of a classified secret, Andy finds himself bound to retrieve it, purely out of loyalty and an alarming lack of common sense.
Andy learns the stolen secret is a new nerve agent deadly enough to make any terrorist giddy with joy. Wanting nothing more than to ignore the whole thing, he finds himself drawn into a web of corporate espionage, government corruption, and terrorists with excellent taste in chemical warfare. He’ll have to rely on his wits to stay one step ahead of MI-5, who want him behind bars, if he hopes to recover the secret, and stop the zealots from killing thousands.
Time is running out. Andy’s got only one chance to make things right. Can he do it?
“This white-knuckle page-turner will seize you from the first page … a must-read for lovers of gripping, fast-paced conspiracy and espionage thrillers. The edge-of-the-seat suspense, compelling cliffhangers, and jaw-dropping plot twists hooked me.”
Keith Mbuya for Readers’ Favorite
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Half Made Up by James Dunlopcis a gripping and entertaining read that cleverly blends elements of military thriller, dark humor, and crime fiction. Andrew MacKay, our flawed yet captivating protagonist, brings readers along on a turbulent journey through the gritty streets of London and dangerous memories of battlefield chaos.
Author Dunlop’s writing is sharp and witty, his dialogue crackling with authenticity, and his vivid action scenes skillfully written, pulling you right into the heart-pounding chaos. But what truly stood out for me in Half Made Up is its character work—MacKay is wonderfully human, his imperfections is painted with both humor and vulnerability. Author Dunlop captures the strain and absurdity of modern life’s pressures through a lens that is both comedic and strikingly real, never losing sight of the emotional core that drives the narrative.
However, the plot occasionally feels slightly uneven, with certain transitions coming off as abrupt, which can momentarily disrupt the story’s otherwise excellent flow. Still, these moments are minor compared to the overall enjoyment and depth of the book.
Half Made Up is highly recommended for readers who appreciate character-driven stories combined with high-stakes action and a touch of dark comedy.
Author: Ron Sarig Release Date: March 14, 2025 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Action, Suspense, Thriller, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 100 pages Publisher: – Blurb: Danny Quantum isn’t your average young man. Ever since childhood, strange things have happened to him—moments of being in two places at once, knowledge that seems to appear in his mind like whispers from the universe. What was once an unexplainable gift soon becomes a national secret. Recruited by Israel’s most elite intelligence agency, Danny is given the codename Schrödinger and trained to harness his extraordinary quantum ability. His mission: to infiltrate the world’s most dangerous regimes, extract their secrets, and stop a nuclear catastrophe before it’s too late.
When a top-secret nuclear detonator vanishes from a high-security vault deep in enemy territory, all signs point to an impending global crisis. With intelligence agencies failing to crack the case and time running out, only Danny’s unparalleled skillset offers a solution. Thrust into a web of espionage, cyber warfare, and political intrigue, he must outmaneuver the world’s deadliest operatives while uncovering the truth hidden in the shadows. From high-stakes covert missions to scientific breakthroughs that defy logic, Danny Quantum and the Nuclear Detonator is a heart-pounding thriller that fuses cutting-edge physics with electrifying spy action. For fans of Tom Clancy and The Bourne Identity, this gripping novel will keep you turning pages late into the night. The only question that remains: Can Danny stop the unthinkable before reality collapses around him?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Danny Quantum and the Nuclear Detonator by Ron Sarig is an engaging blend of espionage thriller and imaginative science fiction, offering a unique exploration of quantum mechanics wrapped in a high-stakes narrative. At the heart of this gripping story is Danny Quantum, an intriguing protagonist gifted with extraordinary quantum abilities that allow him to exist simultaneously in multiple realities (a concept brilliantly explored and woven into the storyline.)
Author Sarig beautifully blends educational insights into complex theories such as Schrödinger’s cat, quantum entanglement, and relativity, seamlessly integrated within a plot that moves swiftly between clandestine operations, geopolitical tensions, and personal discovery. The meticulous detail and thoughtful explanations help ground the story’s speculative elements, making sophisticated scientific ideas accessible and engaging.
The narrative’s pacing is generally fast, bolstered by action-packed sequences and suspenseful espionage elements, although certain segments were a bit densely packed with scientific exposition. Nonetheless, the depth of character development, especially Danny’s evolution from an uncertain young man to a confident operative, is compelling and relatable, enhancing the emotional stakes of the story.
I highly recommend Danny Quantum and the Nuclear Detonator to those who enjoy speculative thrillers. Its creative premise, engaging storytelling, and intellectual depth make it an enjoyable and thought-provoking read.
Author: Miles Joyner Release Date: March 24, 2025 Series: Genre: Techno-Thriller, Mystery, Thriller, Suspense Format: E-book Pages: 355 pages Publisher: World Castle Publishing, LLC Blurb: A high-profile homicide of a former ambassador’s son in the nightlife district of the nation’s capital gets connected to an assassination market on the dark web, turning the DC area into a battlefield over a new generation of class warfare. When the ex-diplomat, Chiedu Attah, hires an elite executive protection team headed by siblings Yemi and Karen Uzunma to guarantee his safety, the security firm realizes they are going up against a young, inventive contract killer who is determined to finish off the political VIP by any means necessary.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4.5 out of 5.
Bazaar by Miles Joyner is one of those books that grabs you by the collar from page one and refuses to let go until it’s dragged you—wide-eyed and slightly breathless—through a world where dark web markets, untraceable firearms, and calculated assassinations are the currency of the day. It’s part dystopian cyber-thriller, part political commentary, and entirely relevant in a way that feels almost uncomfortably prescient.
As a writer and editor, what stood out to me immediately was author Joyner’s voice: gritty, propulsive, and unapologetically bold. He doesn’t shy away from tackling difficult themes such as urban decay, institutional failure, the banality of violence, and yet manages to keep his narrative character-driven and emotionally sharp.
The protagonist, Aaron, is a complex, morally gray young man whose descent into digital-era vigilantism is disturbingly relatable. And the marketplace known as Bazaar, where people bid on assassination dates? Terrifyingly inventive. The novel pulses with a kind of anxious energy that reminded me of early Bret Easton Ellis fused with the social consciousness of The Wire.
Is it perfect? Not always. The pace sometimes races ahead of character development, and a few side plots felt a bit rushed—but honestly, I didn’t mind. The urgency and ambition of the book far outweigh these minor hiccups.
If you’re someone who appreciates fiction that stares unflinchingly into the chaos of modern society and emerges with something urgent to say, Bazaar deserves a spot on your shelf.
Author: Morgan Hatch Release Date: July 31, 2025 Series: Genre: Crime Fiction, Political Thriller, Suspense, Socio-Political Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 310 pages Publisher: – Blurb: The first in a suspenseful new trilogy, a fast-paced thriller set in the streets of Los Angeles, featuring a Mexican American high school senior embroiled in a conspiracy that threatens to destroy his neighborhood. Javier Jimenez is on a glide path to college while his brother, Alex, has done a 180 and is heading for trouble. Neither, however, have any idea what’s coming their way when George Jones sets in motion his plan for their neighborhood. “Some people flip homes. I flip zip codes.” It’s a cataclysmic vision of urban renewal replete with manmade disasters, civil unrest, and a tsunami of ambitious Zoomers.
Meanwhile, Alex and Javier’s feud quickly escalates, even as Alex finds himself in way over his head with Denker Street, the local gang. The bodies start falling, and Javier soon realizes Jones has put a target on his back. It’s time to go to ground. Can he keep Alex from falling further into the streets? Can he outplay Jones at his own game? All this and his own hopes, once so bright, now fading like a smog-shrouded LA skyline.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Gone to Ground by Morgan Hatch is a bold, razor-sharp novel that dives headfirst into the urban sprawl of Los Angeles and never once comes up for air. As a writer and editor, I found myself appreciating not just the story’s complexity but the control with which author Hatch moves between perspectives, timelines, and characters. It’s dense but never bloated, gritty but with a heart that pulses beneath the asphalt.
The story follows Javier, a high school senior doing his best to keep his little brother Alex from falling into the gravitational pull of gang life in the San Fernando Valley. What begins as a familiar tale of familial loyalty quickly expands into a high-stakes political and financial thriller, complete with corporate sabotage, environmental scandal, and cold-blooded real estate warfare. The threads are numerous, but author Hatch pulls them taut with precision.
What I particularly loved was the author’s ear for dialogue and his eye for detail. Whether it’s a classroom filled with half-asleep teens or a power-lunch between political sharks, the writing is immersive and confidently observant. Characters like Betzaida—the tough, queer tow truck operator and half-sister to Javier—leap off the page with authenticity. And George Jones, the book’s Machiavellian fixer, is a villain you love to hate, dripping with charm and menace.
The pacing is deliberate, and that’s the one reason I’m giving this 4 stars instead of 5. Some narrative detours, while insightful, felt slightly indulgent and slowed the momentum during otherwise taut sequences. But it’s a small price to pay for the scope and ambition of what author Hatch accomplishes.
Gone to Ground isn’t just about a city, it’s about the people hanging on to their dignity as the ground shifts beneath them. It’s a book that challenges, informs, and, most importantly, feels alive. Highly recommended for fans of Don Winslow, George Pelecanos, and Walter Mosley.
Author: Christopher Null Release Date: February 10, 2024 Series: Genre: Psychological Thriller, Suspense, Dark Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 392 pages Publisher: Tule Publishing Blurb: How well do you really know your neighbors? Veteran serial killer Klaus Fischer is determined that his most recent murder will be his last, but like many retirements, this one isn’t sticking. No one has come close to suspecting he’s buried the victims on his quiet suburban California cul-de-sac property—but he’s feeling the urge to kill again, and this time he’s set his sights on a target dangerously close to home. Widowed Peg Jurgensen has lived on the cul-de-sac for the past fifteen years, and she’s ready to shed her doldrums and re-enter the world around her. And where better to start than with mothering the curious young teen Eliza van Damal, whose family just moved to the cul-de-sac in order to expose their daughter to a better life.
Eliza, however, prefers to coerce the enigmatic hermit next door, Alex, into helping her pass math. Alex wishes the lot of them would disappear. The closer these misfits become, the more danger even the most ordinary conversations invite. As the body count rises, can these residents trust anyone hiding behind their doors on this street?
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Cul-de-sac by Christopher Null is an unsettling, slow-burning thriller that takes the classic suburban neighbourhood setting and transforms it into a web of secrets, paranoia, and, yes, murder. With its sharp prose and eerie atmosphere, this book takes readers on a psychological roller coaster through the lives of neighbours who may not be as harmless as they seem.
At the heart of the novel is Klaus Fischer, a veteran serial killer who has successfully hidden his crimes for years, until the itch to kill again proves too strong to resist. But his little cul-de-sac in suburban California is not as quiet as he once thought. Enter Peg Jurgensen, a lonely widow yearning for connection, and Eliza van Damal, a bright but rebellious teen who gets caught in the middle of secrets surrounding her new neighbourhood. These characters, along with a cast of seemingly ordinary residents, create a complex narrative that slowly tightens around the reader like a noose.
The book does a great job of building suspense. The multiple perspectives allow for a deeper understanding of each character’s motivations and fears, adding layers of tension as the story unfolds. The writing is crisp, the dialogue feels natural, and the pacing is deliberate, slow enough to build dread, yet quick enough to keep you flipping pages.
That said, The Cul-de-sac does have a few elements that may not work for everyone. The narrative takes its time, which means the first half is more about setting up characters and atmosphere rather than immediate action. Readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers may find this a bit of a slow burn. Additionally, while the book’s multiple perspectives add depth, they can sometimes slow the momentum, making it feel like some reveals take longer than necessary to unfold.
However, once the pieces start falling into place, the payoff is absolutely worth it. Author Null beautifully builds suspense, and the final act delivers a chilling conclusion that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. If you enjoy psychological thrillers that dig deep into the dark corners of suburbia and human nature, The Cul-de-sac is definitely worth reading.
Author: Lisa A. Moore Release Date: January 21, 2025 Series: The Enchanted Heritage Trilogy Book 1 Genre: Urban Fantasy, Mythic Fantasy, Magic-Realism, Paranormal, Mystery Format: E-book Pages: 306 pages Publisher: Unraveled Realms Press Blurb: Some secrets refuse to stay buried-especially when the ocean itself seems to be keeping them. When Morwenna Willowheart Brightwood receives a mysterious letter shimmering with an otherworldly pull, her carefully controlled life begins to unravel. She’s content in her weathered lighthouse home on the Maine coast, weaving stories for others and tending her wind-battered garden. But this letter isn’t just a piece of paper-it’s a summons. One that carries her across the sea to the mist-shrouded Scottish Highlands, where ancient legends breathe, magic hums just beneath the surface, and family secrets refuse to stay silent.
Thrown into a world she barely understands, Morwenna is forced to confront the legacy she’s unknowingly inherited-a tangled web of selkie folklore, forgotten power, and a curse that stretches back generations. With her fiercely protective sister Ava by her side and the guidance of mysterious allies with motives as murky as the sea itself, Morwenna must navigate a path filled with danger, deception, and choices she’s not ready to make. But legends don’t care about readiness. They don’t care about fear. And the tide waits for no one. Whispers of the Selkie is a story where urban fantasy collides with mystical realism, set against the haunting beauty of the Scottish coastline. Rich with contemporary fantasy flair, it’s a tale of family loyalty, reluctant destiny, and the pull of magic that refuses to let go. Perfect for fans of Karen Moning, Deborah Harkness, and readers who crave sharp-witted heroines, atmospheric worlds, and secrets wrapped in salt and shadow.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Whispers of the Selkie by Lisa A. Moore is a beautifully atmospheric tale that blends Scottish folklore, family secrets, and reluctant destiny into an enchanting and immersive read. From the misty coastlines of Maine to the hauntingly beautiful Scottish Highlands, the novel integrates magic and mystery in a poetic way.
Morwenna Brightwood is the kind of protagonist I love—strong yet hesitant, grounded yet drawn to something bigger than herself. When she receives a mysterious letter that pulls her across the sea, her journey into a world of selkie legends and ancestral power begins. What I appreciated most was how real Morwenna felt—she’s not immediately fearless or eager to embrace her heritage. She questions, resists, and struggles with the idea of expectation, which makes her journey all the more compelling. Her dynamic with her sister Ava is another highlight—there’s warmth, loyalty, and just the right amount of tension that makes their bond feel genuine.
Moore’s writing is lush and lyrical, painting the setting with vivid imagery that makes you feel the salt on your skin and hear the whispers of the waves. The Scottish Highlands come alive with an almost sentient presence, making the world feel as much a character as Morwenna herself. The mythology is woven in seamlessly, giving the story a sense of depth and history. If there’s one small critique, it’s that some parts of the pacing felt a little uneven—certain revelations and moments of action could have been spread out more for maximum impact.
Overall, Whispers of the Selkie is a beautifully written and immersive story perfect for readers who love fantasy grounded in mythology, family ties, and the lure of the unknown. It’s a book that stays with you long after the final page is turned. If you love atmospheric, folklore-driven stories with complex heroines, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Author: Dexter Johnson Release Date: December 9, 2024 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Dystopian, Speculative Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 269 pages Publisher: – Blurb: In the year 2160, EchoTech has revolutionized how people experience the world. With its cutting-edge devices, anyone can relive—or even “live”—any memory, turning personal recollections into a form of entertainment for the masses. Memories are no longer just what we remember; they’re experiences to be consumed, shared, and sold.
Brendan, a devoted user of EchoTech, regularly escapes into the memories of others through his EchoVisor. But when his routine existence is suddenly shattered by unexpected events, Brendan is thrust into a hidden world of secrets, conspiracies, and shocking revelations that challenge everything he thought he knew. As Brendan embarks on a journey to uncover the truth, he begins to confront the deeper questions of what it truly means to live. In a society where memories are bought and sold, the line between reality and illusion blurs—and Brendan must navigate this complex new reality to find answers about identity, human connection, and the price of experience.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Penny for Your Memories by Dexter Johnson is an absolute gem of a sci-fi thriller that grabbed me from page one and didn’t let go. Set in the year 2160, it introduces a future where memories aren’t just personal anymore—they’re commodities to be consumed, shared, and even sold. EchoTech’s ingenious devices make it possible to dive into other people’s recollections, and this fascinating premise alone was enough to hook me.
The protagonist, Brendan, is a regular user of EchoTech’s EchoVisor, comfortably lost in the memories of others. But when his seemingly routine life takes a dark turn, the story unfolds into a gripping journey of secrets, conspiracies, and mind-bending revelations. Brendan’s transformation from a passive observer to someone actively questioning his reality is beautifully paced and layered with emotional depth. His struggles felt quiet relatable, even amidst the futuristic backdrop.
What I absolutely loved about this book is how it brilliantly blended the plot twists with thought-provoking questions. What does it mean to truly live? How do we define reality in a world dominated by manufactured experiences? Author Johnson doesn’t just craft an exciting story; he forces one to think long after the book is over.
The world-building is incredibly immersive, from the sleek, futuristic gadgets to the eerie consequences of a society built on memory manipulation. Author Johnson’s writing is simple yet cinematic—I could see every detail as if I were wearing an EchoVisor myself!
If you’re a fan of speculative fiction that challenges your perception of reality while delivering edge-of-your-seat thrills, Penny for Your Memories is a must-read!
Author: David Morabito Release Date: May 13, 2024 Series: Genre: Suspense, Romance, YA, Science Fiction-Fantasy Format: E-book Pages: 366 pages Publisher: – Blurb: An emotionally confused teenage boy, known as Fish, living in a lackluster 1950’s suburban setting is accustomed to the anguish of growing up in a dysfunctional family. Nicknamed the Fisherman, he seemingly is always having to fish around for a reason for his miserable existence. He is then forced to face his worst fears confronting an abusive authority figure in the neighborhood known as Poppa. To compound his anguish, he endures the mistreatment while pursuing the love of Kara, a beautiful but garrulous neighbor girl, who is drawn into the conflict.
In the course of the conflict, they are transported to an alien realm which appears to be a beautiful peaceful setting but soon becomes “anything but” when Poppa and his henchmen stumble upon the portal. Fish and Kara’s affection for each other grows as they are being ruthlessly pursued. Finally the night of decision arrives for Fish, as Poppa and he confront each other in a suspenseful fiery setting of a surreal alien landscape. The Fisherman is forced to quickly fish for a fateful decision on the proper course of action he should take as he weighs concepts of vengeance, justice and redemption.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Night of the Fisherman by David Morabito is a nostalgic suspenseful journey that seamlessly blends the 1950s suburban milieu with a surreal and alien twist.
The characters stand out in this book. Fish is an achingly relatable protagonist whose inner turmoil feels extremely realistic. His bond with Kara, the spirited neighbour girl, adds warmth and hope to the otherwise intense narrative. Poppa, on the other hand, is a terrifyingly oppressive figure whose presence kept me on edge throughout the story.
The suburban setting is painted with amazing detail and was successful in evoking a strong sense of time and place. The alien realm introduces an imaginative layer of intrigue, with its deceptive beauty quickly unraveling into danger and suspense. The dramatic final confrontation between Fish and Poppa is both super exciting and touching, forcing Fish to wrestle with timeless themes of vengeance, justice, and redemption.
While the book’s rich descriptions and philosophical undertones are commendable, they occasionally slow down the pacing. Some readers might wish for a tighter narrative flow. Nevertheless, Night of the Fisherman is an emotionally gripping tale with strong character development and a unique blend of genres and I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy tales that mix introspection with high-stakes action.
Author: Allen Wyler Release Date: July 16, 2024 Series: Genre: Techno-Thriller, Suspense, Mystery Format: E-book Pages: 298 pages Publisher:Stairway Press Blurb: In Wyler’s 7th installment of the Deadly Odds techno-thriller series, reformed hacker Arnold Gold and his team are contracted to come up with a daring plan to sneak past the building’s newly installed AI-enhanced security systems to hack the computers and offices a high-profile Seattle law firm in an ultra-secure downtown office building while squaring off against the clock and a hard-driving, paranoid Head of Security, Itzhak Mizrahi.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Deadly Odds 7.0 by Allen Wyler is the seventh instalment of the Deadly Odds techno-thriller series in which the author ramps up the tension, combining cutting-edge technology with nail-biting suspense in a story that is as intellectually stimulating as it is unputdownable.
Arnold Gold, the main character, now more seasoned and cautious, faces a new challenge that tests his skills and moral compass. Tasked with infiltrating a high-profile Seattle law firm’s ultra-secure office, Arnold and his team must outsmart an AI-enhanced security system that represents the pinnacle of current technological advancements. The portrayal of this AI system is both realistic and thought-provoking, showcasing Wyler’s deep understanding of technology and its implications.
The character of Itzhak Mizrahi, the paranoid Head of Security, serves as a formidable antagonist. His intense scrutiny and strategic mind make the cat-and-mouse game between security and intrusion intensely compelling. Author Wyler does an excellent job of crafting a character who is not only a worthy opponent but also a catalyst for elevating the psychological tension throughout the narrative.
Author Wyler’s narrative excels in pacing and structure, balancing technical explanations of hacking and security with fast-paced action sequences. This balance ensures that “Deadly Odds 7.0” is accessible to readers who may not have a background in technology while still satisfying those who do. The detailed descriptions of Seattle’s downtown and the law firm’s office add a vivid setting to the high-tech escapades.
However, the novel occasionally struggles with dialogue that can feel stilted, which slightly hampers its otherwise seamless narrative flow. Additionally, while the technological aspects are generally well-handled, there are moments where the technical jargon might overwhelm a casual reader. Despite these minor issues, the novel’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings.
Overall, Deadly Odds 7.0 is a thrilling addition to Allen Wyler’s repertoire, offering fans of the series and newcomers alike a gripping tale of cyber intrigue. Arnold Gold’s latest adventure is a reminder of the precarious balance between security and privacy in the digital age and the lengths individuals will go to protect—or dismantle—it. This instalment not only entertains but also raises pertinent questions about the future of AI and cybersecurity, making it a must-read for techno-thriller aficionados.
Author:Andrew Masseurs Release Date: May 1, 2024 Series: A Day in the Life series (Book #2) Genre: Suspense, Thriller, Horror, Dystopian Format: E-book Pages: 372 pages Publisher: – Blurb: CLBC International Book Excellence Gold Award Winner Dystopian & Apocalyptic Thriller. “A spell-binding thrill ride, The Day After: A Day in the Life Series, Book Two by Andrew Masseurs will keep you on the edge of your seat.” They called it, The Vanishing. When the world’s population mysteriously disappeared. Michael Stevenson and his family somehow managed to survive in a world of adversity filled with new strange predatory creatures. Now, in the sequel to the well received novella, A Day in the Life, that reviewers called:
“An unparalleled reading experience.” “A literary roller coaster that defies expectations.” “Unputdownable.” “Impressed is an understatement.” We will find out what the strange being really meant when it said, “you will probably not survive, Michael Stevenson.” When the world recognises you as a virus. The worst enemy in an existence that wants you dead. Might just be yourself.Join our brave heroine, 14 year old Shelby Frances O’Leary and author, Andrew Masseurs on the adventure of a hazardous, devastating lifetime. This is…The Day After.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
The Day After by Andrew Masseurs is the gripping continuation of A Day in the Life by Andrew Masseurs. What I love about this book (and loved it in the first book too) is the fact that Author Andrew brings out not only the physical challenges of surviving in a hostile environment but also the emotional toll it takes on the characters in his writing.
The pacing of the book is exceptionally relentless, keeping readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Each chapter unfolds with a new revelation or threat, propelling the story forward with gripping momentum. Author Masseurs’ ability to blend action-packed sequences with introspective moments takes this book to a whole different level.
With its Gold Award-winning narrative and unforgettable characters, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an exhilarating journey into a world of survival, courage, and the enduring power of hope.
Author:Trinity Cunningham Release Date: June 20, 2023 Series: Genre: Detective Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 102 pages Publisher: GCJ3 Enterprise Blurb: The Valca Order, led by the tyrant Kingston, plans to expand its territory and is gathering the strongest men from every town in Kartha for its army. Twin brothers Raidan and Dimitri Dairner won’t let that happen. Dimitri has a plan to stop the conscription. He persuades Raidan to follow him into a cave where an old acquaintance, the mysterious Adrik, awaits them. Dimitri believes Adrik has a way to give them magic and, with that, the power to stop Kingston. Adrik confirms this, telling the brothers they are the descendants of the guardian of a magical stone—the Weldafire Stone—and by binding them to it, they will possess insurmountable power. But Raidan does not trust Adrik, who has tricked him in his past. Despite Raidan’s objections, Adrik begins the ritual until he is thwarted, and only Raidan becomes bound to the stone.
Suddenly thrust into a world of magic and war, Raidan rejects the magic he possesses for fear of it and only wants to get his family far away from the dangers they face. But if he does nothing, innocent people will die and the oppressive rule of The Valca Order will only worsen. On top of that, an elusive enemy pursues the stone and its power, and if he succeeds, it could mean the end of Kartha. Only Raidan has the power to stop him and protect the people—but can he let go of the past and accept his destiny before it’s too late? A thrilling, epic fantasy adventure full of twists and turns, Blood Bound is the first book in the Guardians of the Weldafire Stone series.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Blood Bound: The Guardians of the Weldafire Stone by Trinity Cunningham is the first book in the The Guardians of the Weldafire Stone series. It is an enthralling fantasy adventure that gripped me from start to finish.
Author Cunningham weaves a compelling narrative filled with magic, intrigue, and suspense. From the outset, I was drawn into a world brimming with danger and intrigue, where the fate of an entire kingdom hangs in the balance. The concept of the Weldafire Stone and the power it bestows upon its guardian adds an intriguing layer to the story, as Raidan, the protagonist, grapples with his newfound abilities and the responsibility they entail.
The pacing of the novel is excellent, with plenty of action-packed scenes and unexpected twists that kept me engaged. The descriptions were vivid and realistic. While the story follows some familiar fantasy tropes, the author puts her own unique spin on them, creating a fresh and immersive reading experience. The book sets the stage for what promises to be an epic series. I cannot wait to read the next instalment in the Guardians of the Weldafire Stone saga.
Author:Glendall C. Jackson III Release Date: June 20, 2023 Series: Genre: Detective Fiction Format: E-book Pages: 102 pages Publisher: GCJ3 Enterprise Blurb: In many murder mysteries, the call girl gets killed. This novella turns that tired trope on its head. A skilled and versatile sex worker learns that one of her clients, a prominent businessman, was brutally murdered just hours after their last date. With her unique access to the upper echelon of Washington D.C. society, she embarks on an investigation that leads to a shocking discovery. Glendall C. Jackson III, an award-winning non-fiction writer, creates a vivid portrait of high-end sex work.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Naked Came the Detective by Glendall C. Jackson III is a refreshing twist on the classic murder mystery genre. I really liked this book because it defies tired tropes as author Jackson introduces a skilled and versatile sex worker who is thrust into the role of amateur detective. The unique perspective of a high-end sex worker really sets this novella apart, and what really adds to the narrative is author Jackson’s meticulous attention to detail, offering a glimpse into the lives of characters who navigate the complexities of power, privilege, and deception.
The protagonist’s journey from sex worker to investigator is both compelling and unexpected, as she uses her intimate knowledge of the upper echelons of society to uncover the truth behind the murder. The author’s writing is sharp and engaging, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
While the novella may be short in length, it is long on suspense and intrigue. It has a brisk pace, with twists and turns that kept me eagerly turning pages. Overall, Naked Came the Detective is a compelling and thought-provoking novella that subverts expectations and delivers an engaging mystery with a fresh perspective. Fans of the genre will definitely enjoy the sharp prose and inventive storytelling.
Author:Andrew Masseurs Narrator:David Piper Release Date: October 18, 2023 Genre: Suspense, Thriller, Horror, Novella Series: Format: Audiobook Length: 2 hours and 36 minutes Publisher:Author’s Republic Blurb: Michael awakens to a world where everyone has mysteriously disappeared. Not only must he come to grips with the sudden loss of his family, but he must also survive in a changing, overgrown, perilous earth filled with new predatory creatures while searching for his wife and missing daughter. A Day in the Life for a man on the edge surviving in a dangerous new world. A gripping suspense, thriller, horror debut novel by author Andrew Masseurs. Superbly narrated by the amazing David Piper.
REVIEW
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
A Day in the Life by Andrew Masseurs is a splendid book that will take you on a riveting journey through a world suddenly devoid of human life. From the first moment, the narrative gripped me with its exceptional premise. As the story progresses, the tension only builds up.
Masseurs’ debut novel is a genre-bending blend of suspense, thriller, and horror, skillfully crafted to keep listeners engaged and intrigued throughout. The pacing is expertly executed, with each twist and turn propelling the story forward and leaving you craving more. As Michael embarks on his harrowing quest to find his missing loved ones amidst the chaos, you can’t help but be drawn deeper into the mystery and danger of his world.
What sets this audiobook apart is the brilliant narration by David Piper. His captivating delivery brings the characters to life and immerses you in the eerie atmosphere of the post-apocalyptic world. Piper’s ability to convey the protagonist’s emotions and struggles adds depth and intensity to the story.
Overall, A Day in the Life is a gripping audiobook that delivers on every front. With its compelling storytelling, exceptional narration, and spine-tingling atmosphere, it’s a must-listen for fans of suspense and post-apocalyptic fiction.
Author:Vincent Donovan Release Date: August 17, 2024 Series: Genre: Suspense, Thriller, Family Drama Format: E-book Pages: 314 pages Publisher: Black Rose Writing Blurb: Are the voices in Cassie’s head real or just added mayhem? Cassie MacLean has been under siege since that cold January night when her mother, Rose Owens plowed into a group of pedestrians killing five and critically-injuring many others. The town’s pent-up fury explodes when Rose begins to emerge from a coma ten years later. Cassie feels conflicted about the awakening-as well as her father, who is enjoying a successful second act with another woman. But after a brush with cutting-edge technology, Cassie believes her mother is innocent and embarks on a quest to prove it. While she risks alienating many and having her sanity questioned in the process, what’s not in doubt is a vengeful world where the truth depends on who you ask.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
Killer Dreams by Vincent Donovan is a gripping tale of mystery and intrigue, blending elements of psychological suspense with an exploration of family dynamics and the search for truth.
In addition to its rich character-driven narrative, Killer Dreams offers a thought-provoking exploration of justice and perception. As Cassie embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her mother’s accident, she is forced to confront the biases and prejudices that shape her community’s perception of events. Donovan masterfully exposes the inherent flaws in the pursuit of truth, challenging readers to question their assumptions and preconceptions.
Overall, Killer Dreams is an engaging and thought-provoking read that will linger in the minds of readers long after the final page is turned. I would strongly recommend it not only to fans of the thriller and suspense genre but also to readers who enjoy a well-crafted story with depth and complexity.
Author:Terrance Coffey Release Date: January 17, 2024 Series: Genre: Science-Fiction, Suspense, Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 310 pages Publisher: Helm House Blurb: Body snatchers. Mind control. An invasion almost too clever to be caught. Read the most chilling sci fi suspense thriller in years… A seemingly normal six-year-old named Kaden is concealing a profound mystery. He possesses an uncanny wisdom beyond his tender age, navigating the world independently, and wielding an eerie influence over those around him, even his parents.Yet Kaden is not alone in his inexplicable nature. In the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, peculiar occurrences spiral out of control. Mysterious chasms materialize from thin air, individuals of all ages vanish without a trace, and the populace succumbs to an eerie force, enveloped by an otherworldly blue haze. Amidst the chaos stands Clay Krutcher, a disenchanted coal miner unwittingly holding the key to unraveling these anomalies. Little does he know, the fate of humanity rests squarely on his shoulders. Can Clay defy his own destiny, confront the inhuman force lurking beneath the surface, and save our world from impending annihilation? The countdown to The Surfacing has begun, and time is running out.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 4 out of 5.
The Surfacing by Terrance Coffey is a riveting and thought-provoking read. Coffey weaves a chilling tale of mystery, suspense, and existential dread that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
The story centres around the enigmatic six-year-old Kaden, whose seemingly innocent demeanour belies a profound and unsettling mystery. As strange occurrences begin to unfold in the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, Coffey masterfully builds tension and suspense, drawing readers into a world where reality itself seems to be unravelling.
What I found most compelling about The Surfacing is Coffey’s skilful blend of science fiction and psychological thriller elements. The concept of body snatchers, mind control, and an invasion from within is executed with precision and flair, creating a narrative that is both deeply unsettling and utterly captivating.
Overall, The Surfacing is a must-read for lovers of sci-fi suspense thrillers. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and spine-tingling atmosphere, this book is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating Coffey’s next masterpiece.
Author:Vincent Donovan Release Date: 27th January 2022 Series: Genre: Psychological Thriller | Suspense | Thriller Format: E-book Pages: 270 Publisher: Black Rose Writing Blurb: Darlene Connolly is living on the edge four years after a massive solar storm nicknamed Sun-Kissed, causes worldwide havoc. Desperate to support her ailing mother and also exact a long-planned retribution, she sets out to swindle Todd Dolan who abandoned her in high school after she became pregnant. Todd falls for the ruse out of greed and curiosity about the baby. Meanwhile, their son Cotton works on a dude ranch and “fishes” for redeemable bottles and cans to bankroll his own penance. On a trip home, he becomes entangled in his mother’s murderous fury and uncovers a shocking revelation. Pick up a copy of Donovan’s latest literary adventure and buckle yourself in for a twisted psychological tale that proves, even on a scorched planet, revenge remains a dish best served cold.
Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating: 5 out of 5.
Only Dead Leaves Fall by Vincent Donovan is a revenge psychological thriller that will not let you rest until you’ve finished reading the entire book. This book legit kept me up all night and had me finish reading it in one go. It was un-put-down-able!
With brilliant characterisation, an amazing plot and a great concept that is peppered with excellent twists and turns and an unpredictable ending, this book has everything that a thriller fan can ask for (and a lot more!) I loved it and would absolutely recommend it to all psychological thriller readers as well as readers of fans of revenge dramas (fast-paced ones though) and suspense fiction readers who love mystery and intrigue laced throughout the entire story.
The Reading Bud 