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

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

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.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble

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.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK

Cover Reveal - Take Any Chance by Brenna Aubrey

Paperback cover / eBook and Paperback cover 

 

Take Any Chance

(Gaming the System, #10)

Author: Brenna Aubrey

Publication Date: April 30th, 2024

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

In the game of life, Mia Drake has leveled up like a pro. Just out of medical school, she’s landed her dream job—a medical residency at a prestigious hospital. She has a beautiful home and an amazing husband. But there’s one more achievement she’s determined to unlock: becoming a mother.

In the business world, Adam Drake is a beast. He can face any threat. Conquer any boardroom. But when Mia issues the challenge to start a family, Adam will have to take up a sword to fight the ultimate boss—his own fear.

The path forward is clear, but are Adam and Mia truly ready to embark on this epic quest?

Pre-Order Links:

Amazon US | UK

About the Author

Brenna Aubrey is a USA TODAY Bestselling Author of contemporary romance stories that center on geek culture. Her debut novel, At Any Price, is currently free on all platforms. Her books are on over a million e-readers worldwide, have been translated into German, French, Italian and Dutch. They've also been adapted as an interactive app game. Look for the brand new POINT OF NO RETURN series and her extremely popular GAMING THE SYSTEM series.

She has always sought comfort in good books and the long, involved stories she weaves in her head. Brenna is a city girl with a nature-lover’s heart. She therefore finds herself out in green open spaces any chance she can get. She currently resides on the west coast of the US with her husband and children (both human and furry).

Author Links:

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Newsletter

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BOOK REVIEW: Busy This Evening? Yarns of a London Minicab Driver by Chris Bastin

Busy this Evening? Yarns of a London Minicab Driver

Author: Chris Bastin
Publication Date: 25 July 2023
Genre: Contemporary Fiction / Humour

Book Description:

Inspired by the author’s own work and personal experiences, Busy This Evening? presents a humorous and often tongue-in-cheek insight into the life of a London minicab driver, through the eyes of the sincere and endearing Thomas Buckley.

This dip-in style book covers many aspects of the job, such as minicab etiquette and notable passenger encounters, but also shares Buck’s innermost thoughts and his amusing insights into situations, people and relationships as he goes about his daily business, and is complete with a smattering of his favourite jokes along the way.

Readers will find it easy to relate to a great deal of the subject matter in Busy This Evening? It is an amusing, uplifting and original read that will make them not only see minicab drivers in a whole new light – but life itself.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Busy This Evening?: Yarns of a London Minicab Driver introduces readers to a humorous and insightful portrayal of the life of Thomas Buckley, a London minicab driver. Through Thomas's experiences and interactions with a diverse array of passengers, the book delves into various aspects of his job, from minicab etiquette to memorable encounters with passengers. Thomas reflects on his own life, including his long-standing marriage to Helen and their three children, Toby, Charlotte and Mathias. The book captures the essence of Thomas's daily experiences, offering amusing anecdotes and observations that shed light on both the quirks of his passengers and the broader tapestry of life itself.

MY THOUGHTS

This book offers an engaging glimpse into the world of a London minicab driver, presented with wit and charm by Bastin. Thomas Buckley emerges as a relatable and likable protagonist, whose interactions with passengers provide both entertainment and moments of reflection. The book's strength lies in its ability to draw readers into Thomas's world, where every fare becomes an opportunity for humour, insight or unexpected connection.

I particularly enjoyed the diverse range of characters Thomas encounters, from the friendly and congenial to the irritable and eccentric. These interactions not only showcase Thomas's versatility as a driver but also underscore the rich tapestry of human experience found within the confines of a minicab. The humour throughout the book is well-executed, with scenes like the Michael Jackson vs. Elvis Presley exchange adding levity and charm to the narrative.

Overall, this book is a delightful read that offers both entertainment and a fresh perspective on the lives of minicab drivers. It's a book that resonates with authenticity, drawing from the author's own experiences to create a compelling and enjoyable narrative. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a light-hearted yet insightful exploration of human nature and the everyday joys and challenges of life behind the wheel.

VERDICT

Rating: 4 Stars

Source: Author

BOOK REVIEW: Catastrophe in the City by Stephen Baer and Arlo Baer

Catastrophe in the City

Author: Stephen Baer and Arlo Baer
Publication Date: 19 January 2024
Pages: 35
Genre: Children's Picture Book

Book Description:

Catastrophe in the City is a children's book that follows the escapades of Catastrophe, an inquisitive cat, as he explores the city, inadvertently leaving a trail of chaos in his wake. Young readers will find humor in Catastrophe's blunders, which are cleverly depicted by contrasting Catastrophe's innocent appraisal of each situation alongside visuals of complete turmoil caused by his decisions.

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

In Catastrophe in the City readers are introduced to Catastrophe, a curious cat whose escapades in the city lead to chaos and mayhem. After being locked away during a dinner party mishap, Catastrophe escapes and embarks on a series of adventures, unwittingly causing havoc wherever he goes. The book follows Catastrophe's innocent exploration juxtaposed with the chaos he leaves in his wake, providing young readers with humour and entertainment.

MY THOUGHTS

This book offers a delightful and engaging story for young readers, filled with humour and excitement. The authors, Stephen and Arlo Baer, skillfully weave together Catastrophe's misadventures with vibrant illustrations, capturing the essence of his curious nature and the chaos he inadvertently creates. Children will undoubtedly relate to Catastrophe's innocence and curiosity, finding joy in his mishaps while also learning about the consequences of his actions.

What sets this book apart is its ability to entertain while subtly teaching valuable lessons about responsibility and the importance of considering others. Catastrophe's obliviousness to the chaos he causes serves as a gentle reminder for children to be mindful of their actions and the impact they may have on those around them.

Overall, this is a charming and well-crafted book that will captivate young readers with its engaging storyline and lovable protagonist. It's a perfect choice for storytime sessions and will surely become a favourite on many bookshelves.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Catch and Release by Tracy Solheim

Catch and Release

(Milwaukee Growlers Football Romance, #3)

Author: Tracy Solheim

Publication Date: February 26th, 2024

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance / Sports

Book Description:

A second chance, enemies-to-lovers football romance.

He’s the pro athlete everyone wants to be.

Quarterback Trey Van Horn didn’t become the league’s MVP by accident. Years of self-discipline and iron-clad control have made him the envy of everyone in and around the game of football. But when he comes face-to-face with the one who got away, his tightly managed life is turned upside down. Now he’ll do whatever it takes to score the greatest comeback of his life.

She’s tired of being every guy’s doormat.

London Headley is on the verge of having the career she’s always dreamed of. Too bad the path to her promotion runs through the guy who broke her heart a decade earlier. So what if everything about the Milwaukee Growlers QB sets her panties on fire? She’s determined to keep things professional. Life has taught her that men will always choose something—or someone—over her. It’s going to take more than a Hail Mary to get her to buy into the fairy tale.

The only problem? Her lips don’t seem to want to follow the game plan. Not when Trey is executing an all-out blitz to prove he’s worth a second chance.

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Book Blitz & Giveaway - Dirty Saint by Tabatha Vargo

Dirty Saint

(Sons of Sinister, #2)

Author: Tabatha Vargo

Publication Date: February 21st, 2024

Genre: NA Contemporary Romance

Book Description:

Koah Saint

Son of Sinister. Drug dealer. The number one stunner on The Strip and a BIG FAT LIAR.

They bow to him like he’s the holy grail, but I know he’s really the devil.

Since the day he was dropped on our doorstep, I’ve wanted him out of my life.

He’s a black stain on my memory and the one who put my father away.

Because of him, I’m flipping burgers instead of lying on beaches. To say he ruined my life would be an understatement.

Ten years later, I still can’t stand the guy, but even I can admit he’s sexy beyond belief. I won’t fall for his lusty looks and boyish charms. There’s nothing he can say or do to me to make me believe he’s anything but a lying playboy.

Or is there?

Buy Links:

Amazon US | UK | iBooks | Kobo

BOOK REVIEW: AH, NUTS! The Crumbelievable Adventures of Peanut & Jelly by Max Beaudry

AH, NUTS! The Crumbelievable Adventures of Peanut & Jelly

Author: Max Beaudry

Illustrator: David Perry
Publication Date: 3 January 2024
Genre: Graphic Novel

Book Description:
With the laugh-out-loud humor of Spongebob and Dog Man, this slapsticky adventure is stuffed with action, friendship, heart, and a heaping dose of food puns!

Every morsel falls into place within the Foodtopia Pyramid. Well-peeled fancy folk reign from the TOPPINGS, average doughs make up the FILLING, and at the bottom, the odd-foods-out form the CRUMBS. This is where we find PEANUT and JELLY. They may be lowly employees at the Crumb Dump for now, but these ride-or-fries are determined to rise to the coveted upper crust. But when they accidentally unleash a Crumb Feeder into the city, their plans look shakier than an uneven soufflé! This tale has steaks, artichoke heart, and of course, is ripe with comedy!

Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK

SUMMARY

Step into the whimsical world of Foodtopia with "AH, NUTS! The Crumbelievable Adventures of Peanut & Jelly" by Max Beaudry. Reminiscent of Ferris Bueller's mischievous antics blended with the camaraderie of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, this book serves up a delectable concoction of humour, action and heart, garnished with a generous helping of food puns.

In Foodtopia, where social hierarchy is dictated by the Foodtopia Pyramid, we meet Peanut and Jelly, two lowly employees at the Crumb Dump with aspirations to rise to the coveted upper crust. However, their plans take a hilariously chaotic turn when they accidentally unleash a monstrous Crumb Feeder into the city, setting off a series of slapsticky adventures.

As Peanut and Jelly embark on a mission to contain the chaos they've unleashed, they discover the true ingredients of friendship and the importance of staying grounded in a world where social status reigns supreme. With its engaging storyline, relatable characters and vibrant illustrations, "AH, NUTS!" is a delightful read for readers aged 10 and above, promising laughter and valuable life lessons for the whole family to savour.

MY THOUGHTS

This graphic novel captured my imagination from the very first page. Beaudry has concocted a truly delectable story filled with laughter, heart and enough food puns to make even the pickiest reader smile.

I found myself drawn into the zany world of Foodtopia, rooting for Peanut and Jelly as they navigated their way through hilarious mishaps and heartwarming moments. The dynamic between the two protagonists is reminiscent of classic duos like Abbott and Costello, keeping the reader entertained with their witty banter and genuine camaraderie.

What I appreciated most about this book is its underlying message about friendship and the pursuit of happiness. Through Peanut's journey of self-discovery, we're reminded that true fulfillment comes not from climbing the social ladder, but from cherishing the relationships we hold dear.

The illustrations are a feast for the eyes, perfectly complementing the whimsical tone of the story. Each page bursts with color and energy, bringing Foodtopia to life in all its quirky glory.

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend "AH, NUTS!" to readers of all ages. Whether you're a fan of food-themed adventures or simply looking for a good laugh, this book is sure to satisfy your appetite for fun.

VERDICT

Rating: 5 Stars

Source: Author