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Monday 25 March 2024

BOOK REVIEW: Slumber of Silence (The Talisman Series Vol 4.5) by Brett Salter

Slumber of Silence
Series: The Talisman, Book 4.5
Author: Brett Salter
Publication Date: 9 November 2023
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure

Book Description:
Ah-hah! Nothing like the pungent smell of an ancient cave and the thrill of the hunt for a pair of mangey Garms to really make you feel alive, huh? In this canon novella of The Talisman Series, “Slumber of Silence”, Rome and Julian find themselves out on a mission for The Alliance, tracking a couple of Garms through a cave system that seems as old as the mountain range that shadows it. At first, it’s just another heroic operation to protect our world from the invasive Darkbrands, but the boys from Georgia quickly determine that these dank and cavernous passageways are so old and mysterious that they may have never even seen a human or dragon before. Or have they? What long-forgotten riddles hide within the pressing darkness of the cave? What silent and slumbering secrets have been kept for eons undiscovered? And without any backup from The Alliance, will Rome and Julian even survive to tell them?

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK


SUMMARY

Slumber of Silence is the latest instalment of The Talisman Series by Brett Salter. In this book, Rome and Julian, two central characters, are dispatched on a mission by The Alliance following the events of The Battle for Verdana, Book 4. Tasked with closing a newly opened portal and dealing with the emergence of dangerous Garms, the duo ventures into a mysterious cave. As they navigate its depths, battling Darkbrands along the way, they uncover ancient secrets that challenge their perceptions of history and the world around them. Throughout their perilous journey, Rome and Julian reveal a more vulnerable side, emphasising the depth of their bond as they confront the dangers lurking within the cave's shadows.


MY THOUGHTS

This instalment offers an exhilarating addition to The Talisman Series, delving deeper into the dynamic between Rome and Julian while introducing captivating new elements to the overarching narrative. Salter expertly balances action-packed sequences with moments of introspection, providing readers with a nuanced portrayal of the characters' growth and resilience. The exploration of the cave not only adds an air of mystery but also expands the series' lore, hinting at the existence of ancient and enigmatic beings. This subtle revelation adds an intriguing layer to the story, leaving readers curious and eager for further exploration of the depths of this newfound mythology.


Furthermore, the evolution of secondary characters such as Jericho, Krystal and Mrs. Case adds depth to the narrative, enriching the ensemble cast and contributing to a more immersive reading experience. The palpable camaraderie between Rome and Julian is a highlight, underscoring the importance of friendship and solidarity in the face of adversity. By showcasing the characters' vulnerabilities, Salter humanises them, making their triumphs all the more rewarding for readers invested in their journey.


Overall, this book is a compelling addition to the series, offering a captivating blend of adventure, mystery and character-driven storytelling. Salter's adept storytelling and rich world-building ensure that readers will be eagerly anticipating the next installment in this captivating saga.


VERDICT


Rating: 5 Stars
Source: Author

Monday 18 March 2024

BOOK REVIEW: Life on the Line by David Skipper

Life on the Line
Author: David Skipper
Publication Date: 30 March 2024
Genre: YA / Coming of Age

Book Description:
A taut, gritty tale about two boys who live on a run-down housing estate near a railway line.Simon and Darren look out for each other—always have done. Especially these last few years, since Darren's dad died and his mum took up with Milo. Since Si's kid brother got so ill.Since girls, drugs and gangs became a part of life, and messing about on the railway line has turned into more than just playing stupid games.But sometimes even your best mate can't protect you from what life has in store further down the tracks...First published by Walker Books.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK


SUMMARY

Life on the Line delves into the lives of two teenage boys, Simon (Si) and Darren, who navigate the challenges of growing up in a run-down housing estate near a railway line. The story revolves around their deep friendship, strained family dynamics and encounters with drugs and violence.

Si and Darren share a close bond, supporting each other through tough times, including Si's brother Jude falling ill and Darren's abusive stepfather, Milo. Despite their loyalty, they find themselves embroiled in risky situations, such as breaking into school grounds and dealing with Milo's violent outbursts. The discovery of a stray dog named Custer adds another layer to their friendship.

As the story unfolds, tensions rise between Si and Darren, exacerbated by secrets and conflicts. Si's desperation to escape the chaos leads him to make reckless choices, culminating in a near-fatal overdose. Meanwhile, Darren's sudden disappearance and disturbing revelation about Milo's fate leave Si grappling with uncertainty and guilt.


MY THOUGHTS

This book offers a raw and gritty portrayal of adolescent struggles, but it falls short in fully engaging the reader. While the friendship between Si and Darren is convincingly portrayed, the characters lack depth, making it challenging to empathise with their experiences. Si's motivations and desires remain ambiguous throughout, leaving a void in the narrative.

The pacing of the story is uneven, with lengthy passages that fail to advance the plot effectively. The inclusion of multiple subplots, such as Jude's illness and Milo's abusive behavior, adds complexity but detracts from the central narrative. Additionally, the sudden shifts in perspective, including insights from Custer the dog, disrupt the flow of the story and diminish its impact.

Despite these shortcomings, the book addresses important themes like loyalty, family dynamics and the consequences of substance abuse. With tighter character development and a more focused plot, the novel could have resonated more deeply with readers. Overall, while it offers glimpses of promise, it ultimately falls short of its potential.

VERDICT


Rating: 3 Stars
Source: BookSirens

Monday 11 March 2024

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Pulling Her Resources by Mia Sivan

Pulling Her Resources
Author: Mia Sivan
Publication Date: March 16th, 2024
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:
In Tel Aviv’s high-stakes business world, Dafna works in a startup teetering on the brink of financial doom. Divorced for six years and starved for passion, she goes on a wild one-night stand with a hot, much younger bartender. But then, the tattooed barman strolls into her startup. Surprise! Turns out he is Erez Ben Ami, the CPA assigned to go over their books with a fine-tooth comb.

Erez is a single dad, with a young brother to support. His boss offers him a dream position, but there’s a catch: first, review a new, promising startup and make it as favorable as possible. His future is on the line, and he must suppress his feelings for Dafna, keeping his hands and other parts to himself.

Dafna can’t stop wanting Erez, he is the man who made her get over her ex-husband. They spend hours together, and soon, they’re using the office desks for more than emails.

Erez is falling for Dafna, she is the woman he has always looked for. When he suspects shady dealings within her company, he finds himself at a loss. Investigating it can cost him his dream job, as well as the love of his life.

Pulling Her Resources is a stand-alone later-in-life steamy romance featuring a forbidden workplace affair, financial intrigue and a Happy Ever After.

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Monday 4 March 2024

Author Interview - Bright Midnights - A Dark Paranormal Love Story (The Limerent Series Book 2) by LS Delorme

Bright Midnights - A Dark Paranormal  Love Story
Series: The Limerent Series Book 2
Author: LS Delorme
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense
ISBN: 9798987488027
Publisher: Limerent Publishing
Publication Date: 2 October 2023

Book Description:
Amelie has always been different.

Most high school students find life challenging, but 17-year old Amelie has a lot more to contend with than typical teenage angst. Ever since she turned 11, others have been irresistibly drawn to her—with tragic consequences. Her only escape is at night when she flies to different times and places through her “dreams”. Her life begins to change when, on one of her flights, she meets Clovis, an alluring and mysterious young man who hides a secret.

As Amelie finds herself increasingly drawn to him, she learns his story, how it intertwines with her own and finally discovers how to live her life in the real world. Until her own secrets are revealed to the wrong people and that world turns upside down.

Bright Midnights is the second in the Limerent Series and continues in the thought-provoking and beautiful style of the first as it considers different dimensions, different ways of looking at the world, and the transcendental power of love.

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