Book Blitz & Giveaway - Killer Motives by Bonnie Traymore

Killer Motives

Author: Bonnie Traymore

Publication Date: April 14th, 2022

Genre: Adult Mystery / Suspense

Book Description:

“A riveting, pulse-pounding, adrenaline rush of a thriller. Do not miss this book!” – Noelle W. Ihli, author of Gray After Dark

Readers’ Favorite 2023 Silver Medal Award Winner, Mystery-Murder

Audiobook Reviewer 2023 Best Mystery Award

Victoria’s life isn’t as perfect as it seems. But with two homicide detectives on her doorstep, it’s about to get a lot worse.

Still reeling from the shocking discovery that her husband is having a passionate affair with his real estate client, Victoria struggles to process the mind-blowing news that Nick’s lover is dead—brutally murdered in cold blood on the very same evening she uncovered the truth.

And now two detectives are on her doorstep, waiting to question both of them. Is she a suspect?

With little hard evidence and no shortage of suspects with “killer motives,” Detectives Jack Stark and Lexi Sanchez are under intense pressure to solve the high-profile murder case that rocks the picturesque village of Tarrytown just as the town is gearing up for the area’s annual Halloween festivities and an influx of tourists.

As Victoria sets out to clear herself and find out the truth, she’s faced with two terrifying possibilities—either her husband is a murderer or someone is out to get them.

Conflicted about her marriage and emotionally raw, she sets out to find the truth about what happened that night.

But does she really want to know?

Perfect for fans of Shari Lapena, Jeneva Rose, Sarah Pekkanen, Kaira Rouda, or Shalini Boland.

Pre-Order Links:

Amazon US | UK

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Penalties and Proposals by Anne Kemp

Penalties and Proposals

(Love on Thin Ice)

Author: Anne Kemp

Publication Date: October 17th, 2024

Genre: Adult Comedy / Contemporary Romance / Sports

Book Description:

It only takes one bad apple to ruin the bunch. When life hands me reformed hockey star Noah Beaumont, AGAIN, am I supposed to make cider or is there a sweeter surprise in store?

Willa: I never wanted to see Noah Beaumont again. EVER. When I kicked him off my set after he showed up intoxicated, his PR team tried to blacklist me. I made it over that hurdle, made a name for myself, and I’m heading to Maple Falls to cover a charity ice hockey team that’s making headlines…only to find out I have to work with HIM.

But this Noah seems different. He’s reformed and seems to be determined to show me he’s changed. Can I trust him, or will he be the same disaster I remember?

Noah: I’ve spent years trying to make amends for my past mistakes, questioning if I still belong in the world of hockey or if it’s time to step back, be ‘normal’. But seeing Willa again brings everything into sharp focus. She’s the woman who’s haunted my thoughts since the day I met her.

Now, she’s here in Maple Falls, and I’m determined to prove I’m not the same man she remembers. I want her to see the real me, the man I’ve worked so hard to become. Can I convince her to give me a second chance?

Penalties and Proposals is part of the Love on Thin Ice sweet small town hockey romcom series. It’s a second chance enemies to lovers story with forced proximity in this small town romance with all the sizzle and chemistry, but none of the spice.

Content warning: This IS a lighthearted and fun romantic comedy, but there are subjects mentioned in this book like parents passing away and former substance abuse.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Barristers & Bones by J. L. Brannick

Barristers & Bones

(Las Vegas House of Spades, #1)

Author: J. L. Brannick

Publication Date: October 15th, 2024

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance / Dark Comedy / Dark Romance / Romantic Suspense

Book Description:

A hot, morally gray mentor out for revenge. A sprawling funeral home. Torture, mayhem, and a Las Vegas wedding she can’t remember.

Luna needs to complete an internship to graduate, but staying alive suddenly takes priority when she’s paired with the cold, starkly handsome attorney from hell. Roman Fowler is an infamous partner at the most notorious law firm in Las Vegas, and he’s harboring deadly secrets and searching for retribution. And when he forces her hand, their chemistry explodes.

But she’s not a helpless, scared child anymore. The House of Spades–her adopted family–is a powerful, violent, oddly close-knit clan that has a hands-on, DIY approach to taking care of “life’s little problems.” They’re still deciding if Roman is a problem when Luna’s dark past threatens.

Can they fight the danger and menace together? Or will the monsters win again?

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

BOOK REVIEW: An Empty House Doesn't Sneeze by David Scott Richardson

AN Empty House Doesn't Sneeze

Author: David Scott Richardson
Publication Date: 3 September 2024
Genre: MG/YA Coming of Age Adventure / Historical Fiction

Book Description:
An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze, recipient of the Literary Titan Gold Book Award, renders life on the home front through the watchful eyes of 15-year-old Scotty Johannsen as WWII rages across the globe. Against the backdrop of blackouts, bomb shelters, rationing, and victory gardens, Scotty and his friends follow the rhythms of yesteryear, weaving their wartime worries through the “wilds” of Seattle’s Ravenna Park, where their imaginations run free.

Into this fragile balance a neighborhood threat emerges: Someone is lighting fires during the mandatory blackouts. Scotty, whose father is an air raid warden, is soon caught up in the firebug mystery and tries to smoke the arsonist out. When the local bully throws suspicion on Scotty’s draft-age brother, and when even his best friend’s actions don’t seem to add up, Scotty must navigate a moral and ethical thicket while treading a path toward maturity. Even as scarcity slips into every nook and cranny, An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze celebrates a youthful spirit and hearkens to simple pleasures, where free time and family abound.

David Scott Richardson’s An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze is a work of historical fiction set in 1943 in the Pacific Northwest. A heartwarming and playful coming-of-age adventure, this novel is suitable for MG/YA and the young at heart. It contains no gratuitous language, but there are a few slurs that are true to the historical setting and swear words—in keeping with the characters and story.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

In a literary landscape saturated with World War II narratives, David Scott Richardson’s An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze offers a refreshingly unique perspective. Set in 1943 Seattle, this novel invites readers to experience the war through the eyes of 15-year-old Scotty Johannsen, far from the frontlines but not immune to the conflict’s far-reaching effects. As I turned the pages, I found myself drawn into a world where air raid sirens and blackouts coexist with the timeless struggles of adolescence, creating a tapestry of both historical significance and coming-of-age charm.

The story follows Scotty as he navigates life during wartime, grappling with blackouts, rationing and the ever-present fear of loss. While he doesn’t directly confront the horrors of war, its influence permeates his everyday life—whether through the absence of loved ones or the uncertainty that shadows his childhood. The looming threat of an arsonist igniting fires during mandatory blackouts adds tension to an already precarious environment.

As suspicion falls on Scotty’s older brother, who is draft-age, the narrative deepens, exploring themes of loyalty and moral complexity. Throughout this journey, Richardson effectively balances light-hearted moments with poignant reflections on friendship, sacrifice and the innocence of youth.

MY THOUGHTS

Reading this book was a nostalgic journey that transported me back to a time filled with both innocence and uncertainty. Richardson’s portrayal of Scotty is relatable; he embodies the struggles of adolescence while grappling with the realities of a world at war. The setting in Seattle provides a fresh perspective on WWII narratives often dominated by more conventional battlefront stories.

The character development is commendable, particularly Scotty’s interactions with his siblings and friends. Their playful banter and innocent explorations contrast sharply with the serious undertones of their environment. I appreciated how Richardson skilfully interwove humour into the narrative, making it an engaging read despite its somber themes. Moments where Scotty and his friends engage in whimsical discussions about girls or their fishing adventures add levity to an otherwise heavy context.

However, I found the pacing a bit slow initially as the author took time to establish the setting and characters. While this approach effectively builds tension and immerses readers in wartime life, it may challenge some readers seeking immediate action. Nevertheless, these early chapters are among the most enriching as they lay a solid foundation for understanding the characters’ emotional landscapes.

The writing is mostly engaging and easy to read, but there are moments—especially in conversations involving Scotty’s parents—where the dialogue lacks some vibrancy. These instances felt less authentic compared to interactions among Scotty and his peers. However, these moments are infrequent and do not significantly impact overall enjoyment.

Overall, An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all ages. It successfully blends historical context with personal growth, making it an excellent choice for those interested in World War II narratives or young adult fiction. I would definitely recommend this novel for its unique perspective and engaging storytelling.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Spellcaster Wild Card by Nikki Jefford

Spellcaster Wild Card

Author: Nikki Jefford

Publication Date: October 1st, 2024

Genre: YA Urban Fantasy

Book Description:

Win the game. Change the world.

Winning the show means living forever. It is the golden ticket to fame, fortune, and a place among the vampire elite.

Being remade isn’t on my wish list. I like being me, and with nearly a million online followers, it’s working. My parents and big sister are the do-gooders in our family who want to make the world a fair and just place for all humans and paranormal creatures. I just want to finish high school and keep doing what I do best—sharing hair and beauty tips while discussing Spellcaster and how the show’s vampire judge Malachi Rayne is the hottest male on the planet.

Then, life as I know it ends. There are evil forces who will stop at nothing to maintain world dominance—indefinitely.

It’s hard to care when I’ve become dead inside and out.

After my family is violently attacked, the host of Spellcaster insists I audition for Season 13. For the first time in the show’s history, they want to represent every species of paranormals. That’s me now. Not human. Not vampire. Not the class of creature anyone EVER cheers for.

This season’s prize is power beyond anyone’s imagination. It is the kind of reward that contestants and their sponsors would kill to possess.

Let the other contestants and judges underestimate me. They can gossip all they want about the hotshot wizard and the alpha werewolf behaving as though I’m another prize to be won. And if Coach Malachi can’t handle a bold influencer with abilities, then he can suck it. I preferred watching him from the other side of the screen. He’s about to discover that Haylee Hutchins is a force to be reckoned with. The whole world will.

Someone thought they could silence my family for good. Instead, they created a monster. I’m still here, and I am much harder to kill.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo

BOOK REVIEW: Wildfire, A Talisman Series Novella, Vol 3.5 by Brett Salter

Wildfire

Series: A Talisman Series Novella 3.5

Author: Brett Salter
Publication Date: 27 June 2024
Genre: YA Fantasy / Adventure

Book Description:
The Florida wetlands are hardly an ideal vacation spot for anyone. Especially the young Synergist Knight, Camela Rider, and her Master Dragon, Krysta Valanche. Stuck on Nocturn babysitting duty and being cramped into a less-than-favorable camper with below-average amenities is not how the battle-starved Camela wants to spend her time. She needs adventure and action, and she'll do her very best to drag Krysta along with her to find it. But the area they patrol is a far cry from suburbia, and it sure as heck isn't Camelot either. Everyone's favorite ice duo might be in for more than they bargained for when they trudge deep into the marshes to find ancient artifacts, violent histories, and plenty of Darkbrand fire. Will they succumb to the savagery of the swamps? Or will they rise above the mire and extinguish the flames of the wildfire?

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

In Wildfire, we follow Camela Rider, a Synergist Knight, and her Master Dragon, Krysta Valanche, as they embark on a mission deep in the Florida wetlands. The duo is tasked with keeping watch over a powerful Nocturn—Scarabadon the Juggernaut—that once possessed Jericho and is now detained in a prison of flowers. Though seemingly a simple task, things take a dangerous turn as they explore the Okefenokee Swamp, encountering ancient artifacts, dark histories and fiery threats from the Darkbrand.

The heart of the novella is the evolving relationship between Camela and Krysta, who have to rely on each other more than ever. Camela’s impatience and thirst for action clash with Krysta’s level-headedness, but together they uncover more than just hidden dangers—they also learn about the strength of their bond.

MY THOUGHTS

Wildfire does a great job of delving deeper into the relationship between Camela and Krysta, who were previously side characters in The Talisman Series. This novella gives them the spotlight, allowing readers to see their distinct personalities and how they interact under pressure. Camela is the kind of protagonist who shines because of her boldness, even when that boldness borders on arrogance. Her privileged background, impatience and craving for adventure make her a dynamic and interesting character. In contrast, Krysta’s grounded, calmer nature balances Camela’s impulsiveness, making their partnership all the more compelling.

The contrast between Camela and her brother Julian is another intriguing element. Though they’re siblings, their personalities are vastly different, and this novella does a good job of showing how Camela’s headstrong nature sets her apart. Krysta, as her dragon partner, has a lot of patience, and that’s what makes their bond work. The dynamic between them feels real and earned, especially as they navigate the treacherous swamps while dealing with the looming threat of the Nocturn, Scarabadon.

The Okefenokee Swamp setting adds a haunting atmosphere that heightens the tension of the story. It’s an excellent backdrop for the action, full of mysteries and dangers lurking in the marshes. As Camela and Krysta delve deeper into the swamp, the narrative ramps up with intense action scenes and clever moments of strategy. Mr. Jones, the wise and gentle librarian, is a welcome presence, offering his insights and keeping the story rooted in the larger world of The Talisman Series. His advice serves as a reminder that even in a dangerous, chaotic situation wisdom and knowledge are powerful tools.

Overall, Wildfire is a strong novella that not only adds depth to beloved side characters but also offers an exciting, fast-paced adventure. It’s a great read for fans of the series and an excellent glimpse into the world for newcomers. The dynamic between Camela and Krysta is at the heart of the story, and watching their growth makes this book stand out.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author