"Samarkand", by Ty Patterson

Cutter Grogan book #10

If you want never ending over the top action this book is for you, never a dull moment and a pretty good story to top it all. Cutter is super human, a Delta Force agent turned P.I always ready to help someone whether he is on vacation or not. In book #10, Cutter is on a trip of a life time exploring “The Silk Road “ when he receives a call from his friend FBI Gina Difiore asking him to find her niece Emily who has gone missing exploring “The Silk Road”. No hesitation, Cutter will fight fire and water and will open hell to their enemies….He has no limits….and the action commence…..and what action we find ourselves into.

I was just in the right mind set to tackle this story and I loved it, this is one of the best in this series. Cutter looking for Emily faces the Cartel, human traffickers, War Lords, killers, crooked cups and corrupt officials but Cutter has all the resources needed to success, even Meg and Beth from home has local contacts to provide all what he needed.

This pacing is super fast and well thought of to keep us flipping pages, well I did zip through this thriller in a couple of settings, unfortunately life got in way and I hated so much to put it aside, I was so invested in it from the time I opened the first page till I reached the excellent ending. Along the way the story brings us to places not all have or will visit…I took my atlas out to follow the trail…learn something new even in thrillers…

Well-said and well executed.

Thank you, Ty, for the hours of enjoyment

"The Midnight Knock", by John Fram

The summary in a few words:

Eight weary travelers converge at a lonely roadside motel nestled at the foot of a massive mountain. Ethan, Hunter, Tabatha, Kyla, Fernanda, Penelope, Ryan and Jack Allen have a story to tell and somehow, they are all connected to the enigmatic Sarah Power, another motel guest. When Sarah is found dead some hours later….something keeps lurking in the darkness … what could it be and what to do about it….nothing is quite as it seems…the guests will soon find out.

My views:

“Twilight Zone” reinvented and the law of nature bent in a provocative way. Supernatural horror is not my cup of tea. I really don’t know why I accepted to give this book a go.

This is one strange story I had trouble keeping up with it. Told from each guest point of view in alternate chapters. The story is also divided into section recounting from a different angle the guests experience past and present. This circle repeats too many times for my pleasure, it was very frustrating. The plot is way too complex.

Definitely this is a nightmare, a razor-sharp thriller that is creepy, somewhat clever and too cinematic for my taste…very atmospheric with vivid scenes, a motel that breathe and landscapes that loom with menace. The story is unique no doubt about it.

“The Midnight Knock” definitely pushes the boundaries of mystery storytelling.

This is one story that will please some and not so much others.

I received this ARC from Atria Books via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"The Hawk is Dead", by Peter James

Roy Grace #21

Peter James in this latest mystery takes us deep into Buckingham Palace where Roy Grace never thought his latest murder investigation would take him.

The story in a few words:

Queen Camilla aboard the Royal Train is headed to a charity event when disaster strikes and the train derails. Minutes later an aide is shot dead by a sniper… everyone jumped to the assumption her Majesty was the intended target but debonair Inspector Grace was not on the wave link and finds himself alone with his suspicions…….is he right?.....

My thoughts:

The book can be read on its own but you will appreciate the characters more if you have read the others. Although I have read many books in this series, not all were read in sequence and I never felt lost.

In his investigation Grace takes us on a tour of the Palace and describes its opulence décor and history behind some paintings and “objet d’art” While meeting the monarchy and the various roles of the staff James gives us all the fluff that goes which such an encounter. Really it was a bit much. IMO, this took over the crime and who was behind. Having said this, it still a fun read once the investigation took wings and getting to the arrests and finding out the whodunit is and the why. Definitely a lot more procedural in this one.

I do question: would an attempt on the Queen’s life be handle by the local police or handed over to a squad expert in terrorism?

In a few words:

The plot is well paced and engaging, the characters are well drawn and the setting is vividly described. A good story I enjoyed passing time with.

My thanks to Pan Macmillian and Netgalley for this ARC.

"The Middle Kingdom", by Aviv Geva

My thoughts on this one will be short and sweet:

This is a weird story of a fictional “Red Banaba Monkey Kingdom” ruled by King Brin. It is told with whimsical rhymes and metaphors retelling of the assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin. (which I never realized this while reading this story)

I found this style very hard to appreciate. Although it starts playful and lyrical but is rather dark. Definitively this is a daring, poetic view of a political tragedy seen through jungle mythology. Although the language is inventive and emotional charged, it did little to move me.

Written entirely in rhymed verse and biblical cadence is not a genre I enjoy. Definitely not for me but you may love this story some say it is a work of genius

"Killer Tracks", by Mary Keliikoa

Misty Pines Mystery #3

Sheriff Jax Turner is going off-grid and wants to reconnect with his wife. Once at the camp they were distracted by signs of a break-in at their rented cottage followed by a string of unsetting events and worst an approaching wildfire puts them in a danger zone…. What happens next…. the fun begins and we are into an exciting story.

Meanwhile in town, Jax's team is dedicated to serve and protect. But when body is found in an apartment fire and the investigation leads them to a person who is suspected to be at the same location as Jax more fun awaits us and we are plunged into a very exciting drama…

This fast-paced mystery never stopped popping events for the protagonists to face has held my attention throughout. The tension is well paced and kept mounting a notch each time Jax or a team member faced a complication. Effectively the story creates a sense of danger with high stakes elements such as break-ins and wild fire. The multiple twists and turns kept me on the edge of my seat. It is a good story with all the expected elements one can wish for.

The dual narrative threads enhance the suspense and eventually connect. Well-done.

As for the characters development, excellently penned giving them realistic flaws and strengths. I particularly like the complexity of the relationship between Jax and his wife Abby and the dynamics of Jax’s team.

In whole “ Killer Track” has an engaging storyline that fans of the genre will appreciate.

My thanks to Level best Books and Netgalley for this ARC

"The Executioner Box". by Matt Hilton

This is one dark story one step into full-on horror definitely far from the mystery tales Matt Hilton used to give us…hum do I like this switch into the Twilight Zone…. not really.

In a few words:

Ben Taylor loves to get bargains when shopping at the stalls of curio dealers to resell trinkets at Taylor and King Curiosities, the shop he runs with his wife Helen. He is drawn to a box that contains a gold and bejeweled amulet that seems worthless but actually is a price jewel, although more intriguing is the box itself which is etched with indecipherable markings that turned out to be more significant in impact….

My thoughts:

This story that delves into chaos and strange occurrences is engaging and well paced enough to have kept my attention for most parts but ¾ into I lost interest with the clichéd dialogue, the flat characters and the chilling narrative, the touch of the macabre did no longer appeal to me.

It is an OK story but I join those who say it’s nothing to write home about. It dragged too much and rehashed things too many times…sorry this is not my favourite story but it may be yours….

My thanks to the publisher Severn House as well as Netgalley for this ARC

"Deadly Mercy", by Melinda Woodhall

A Bailey Flynn FBI Mystery book # 8

The story in a few words:

A deadly hit and run accident lead to the discovery of a local woman’s body who had shortly gone missing along with the grisly death of two other bodies fond in a pond close by. Sending Special Agent Bailey Flynn on the cases. Bailey is good at her job and didn’t take time before she discovered the shocking truth behind the twisted mind of the killer. She had to stop him before another life is taken…..a drama is on….enjoy.

My thoughts:

I enjoy this story so suspenseful it was hard to put down, I actually zipped through it in no time, that engaging. The story is dark, fast-paced and juggles many threads which tied together smartly by the end although leaves open the door for a sequel…

With sharp dialogue and in vivid details we navigate along with Bailey procedural details that eventually bring an end to the saga. This is a good page-turner that brings forward a strong female lead and ensures that you will not be only engaged but entertained to the very end. The author’s style is simple and clean and can be enjoyed by all: no censure needed.

I am a huge fan of this author all her books have been solid read.

I received a copy of this book for free with no obligations to write a review.

"Pinhole", by Glenn Cooper

This first book in the trilogy is part thriller and part fantasy-adventure and is a saga that transport the reader to a world they never experienced.

The story:

John Camp is head of security at the largest super-collider tunnel around London. High in his priorities is his relationship with Emily Loughty, the research director. When the collider inexplicably continues powering much higher…in a blink of an eye Emily disappears and a rough-looking man appears in her place…..thus the mystery starts….with John embarking on a mission and goes looking for his hot Scottish babe…..down in hell.

My thoughts:

This story is definitely a thought provoking read. The author does a great job pulling pieces of history to make this thriller captivating. Crossing John’s path, the author throws a bunch a famous people in his storyline as he travels from kingdom to kingdom in search of his Emily.

The author excels in building well-fleshed out characters and putting them in situations where tension is at its max. Particularly interesting where the characters who stuck the longest with the main hero and of course, the story leaves a lot of dead bodies along the way. Every page brings a different set of evil people but when you finally think good is around the corner…all bets are off.

It surely quite entertaining even if there were a lot of unsolved issues and ended in a cliffhanger…. excellent way to start the ball rolling I must say. Very clever to pique our interest in book#2. I surely did the trick with me.

I am not a hard science fiction junkie nor a fantasy fanatic one although no doubts I enjoyed this one …quite mesmerizing by a long shot…

Well-said and well-done

My thanks to Book Whisperer and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book

"Final Orbit", by Chris Hadfield

Apollo Murders, #3

This science-fiction Cold War-era story takes us back to 1975 during the joint Apollo-Soyuz mission but in his spin, Mr. Hadfield didn’t want things to go smoothly. A depressurization accident takes half the crew of the mission and kicks of a plot to the next level bringing China, a new player to join the space race…nothing like a geopolitics drama to spice a good story.

Although this is the third book in the series it works well as a stand-alone. Mr. Hadfield blends with ease real historical personages and events and gives them life with stormy action and along the way some historical backgrounds infused.

I love how this pulse-pounding adventure develops into a battle in space with critical errors killing two astronauts, one cosmonaut and destroying the Russian ship and forcing the remaining crew to Skylab an old abandoned station orbiting nearby…. but once there, company awaited them…. yes, confrontation involving guns and machete all kinds of brouhaha to keep us pinned on the action and invested till the remaining crew heads back to the joy of mission control and everyone on earth.

The narrative is inevitably peppered with an abundance of technical jargon, although the momentum is never lost by this, it keeps a steady pace and move along quite well. But why stay in space, few sub-plots on hearth bring more drama to the plate.

From start to finish this is a well-said and well-done story I enjoyed passing time with.

I received this book from Mulholland Books via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"The Knight is a Son of a Bitch", by Aviv Geva

This story is definitely unique, cheeky and very bold. Told in blunt and crude language Mr. Geva gives us a glimpse into a man’s mind revealing his every dirty secrets. For some reason I cannot explain why but I was sucked into it and stayed put to the last page. The story made me laugh, cry, angry all at the same time. Maybe the philosophical elements of it made me think about my emotions and feelings…. Definitely unfiltered….

"Have you ever asked yourselves if you believe in love at first sight? What regular and mundane matters crosses the mind of any normal man in his twenties when he sees a sexy woman…. Imagine it but don’t say it…Maybe is it lust, maybe infatuation or the poor man is simply lovestruck…. Or something else😊

“The Knight is a Son of a Bitch” is a trip on the wild side, highly sexual and very explicit. It is said against a backdrop of Jewish spirituality and Israeli culture and takes place mainly on the beautiful and sandy beach of Isla Mujeres, Mexico.

Dream on boys…..

Totally original and simply out of my comfort zone but I honestly can say not a bad read as a conclusion.

This book was given through the first reviewer program for my thoughts. This is the way I see it.

"The Blockchain Syndicate", by Robbie Bach

This gripping techno/political drama is a follow-up to “The Wilkes Insurrection” featuring Tamika Smith and Jerry Jessup.

The story in a few words:

Senator Tamika Smith received a threatening email exposing her, then, when her boyfriend, Johnny Humbold is kidnapped and his daughter wounded in a school shooting, Tamika couldn’t stay idle. Wondering who wants to take her down and the country she loves she set to navigate the political landscape riddled with betrayal, misinformation, recue Johnny and tracking down those responsible behind all this mayhem before Armageddon strikes and destroys her country…..

My thoughts:

In this story the “Syndicate” is an organisation of American patriots with a vision to disrupt America rather than rally it.

The plot is a compelling mix of real-world action and online activities. The narrative does not disappoint and takes us from trouble to trouble from the school shooting, to the firing nest in an arboretum, into crypto land and the dark web not a dull moment. I stayed engaged from start to finish even when I crossed some political chapters, not deterred with all the slogans and lectures it raised; I still stayed with it too eager to see where all of this would lead. The story goes international to Netherland and Russia hunting for a professional assassin on the loose named Andropov…. Shifting perspectives across continent, the momentum is constantly maintained to keep us on our toes.

What a riveting thriller even if I had guessed the outcome long before it happened, I still think this is an outstanding read.

The author’s inside knowledge of the tech world and in civic policies gives us a chilling thriller with themes right out of current headlines. Afterall Mr. Bach is a former Chief Officer at Microsoft.

Well-said and well-done

Thank you Fauzia Burke from FSBassociates for giving me the opportunity to enjoy this story.

"The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer", by Ragnar Jonasson

An Icelandic thriller

Although this is my first experience with this author, I understand this book is the second featuring Reykjavik Detective Helgi Reykdal.

The story in a few words:

One winter evening bestselling crime author, Elín S. Jónsdóttir goes missing it is up to Helgi to crack the case. He realises that Elin’s life may not have been so cut and dry. As the hours passes Helgi uncovers that Elin was living a very unexpected life…

My thoughts in a few words:

It will take time to find your footing with this book….be patient it is all worth it.

The narrative begins with interviews between a reporter and Elin and shifts to the present-day (2012) investigation then harks back to the 70’s with Hulda as a young officer investigating her own crimes. We cross multiple time lines as this story unravels at a lightning speed but I assure you even if you are not a fan of the back and forth you will easily get sucked into the suspense. This story is a real puzzle, revealing bits and pieces till most fit together but one. A loose end that left me disappointed, I didn’t care for the ending, a cliff-hanger I would think …maybe a sign of book #3 to come.

I simply love how this story is dialogue driven with exchanges between characters vividly told. In whole, a good story well-said and well-done.

My thanks to St-Martin’s Press and Netgalley for this ARC

"Dead at Midnight", by John W. Mefford

Alex & Ozzie, Dark Horizon, book #3

Mr. Mefford has never been in better shape when he thought about this one. Sending Alex on the case of a missing woman while Ozzie is pulled into a teen gone missing. The two families are desperate only adding more challenge as our charismatic duo and soon they see themselves on the tail a serial killer.

Mr. Mefford where do you get all that imagination to give us a fresh story book after book. Kudo to you. As always, brilliantly writing to pull you into the mystery and captive till the very end, never a dull moment from start to finish.

The story revolves around addiction especially involving ketamine and ketamine parties. The effects on the person and family are devastating and are well describe. Through the excellent narrative the story is not shy to have Alex and Ozzie facing personal ups and downs in their lives while staying focused on finding the two women before they fall prey to the serial killer that had mutilate others in the past.

Great read

Thank you, Mr. Mefford, and keep the good work.

"The Resurrection Maker", by Glenn Cooper

The story and my thoughts:

Echoes from the past guides Arthur Malory on a dangerous quest for the Holy Grail. Seems that Mr. Cooper has once again woven an impossible tale or maybe for some one that is almost believable.

Arthur Mallory works at a scientific science research center and spends his spare time combing the countryside with his metal detector and is interested in finding the Holy Grail. Then enters a mysterious woman warning him of danger….an adventurous traipse starts through Britain, Europe and the Middle East ….

Told through deferent time periods:

England, 15th century with Sir Thomas Malory and his lifelong search for the Holy Grail…the famous tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table….and it goes on and on and on.

England, the present day with scientist and amateur archaeologist Arthur Malory following a centuries-old trail of clues left by his ancestor.

This thriller is a mix of Arthurian legend, medieval secrets and cutting-edge science I surely felt very similar to Dan brown’s religious thrillers I enjoyed very much. It gives us a story with all the great elements of religious, historical one can expect from Mr. Cooper but was this plot as engaging? What happened? I Expected a story with action with good character development, it met my expectation for the first 80 pages or so then the story turned, it became a little disjointed, familiar and very predictable. I totally lost interest and of course reading became tedious……too much information dumps, very boring result….

Totally disappointed with this one.

My thanks to Book Whisperer for the copy I received via Negalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it

"The Physician of Nineveh", by Glenn Cooper

If you like sweeping historical fiction with a dash of fantasy, a bit of romance and some mystery elements, this book is for you.

“The Physician of Nineveh “offers a premise both intriguing and somewhat absurd and give us the thrill of buried mysteries rather than hard science or action.

We have the story of a royal physician, Mannu-ki-Ashur, from the 7Th century BCE who time-cross into modern-day London in search of a cure for his dying love. In London he walks into Dr. Kate Mayne life, an Assyriologist expert in the secrets of ancient Mesopotamia, claiming to be from Niveneh.

The story goes back and forth between the two-time lines and is easy to follow. The written style is smooth and is richly imagined and laced with ancient secrets and a touch of the impossible. As for the time travel element, it’s simply a convenient device for effect. I didn’t think I would be so taken with this story but I simply loved it. I was easily transported to another time, another world and into a strange but charming story.

In a few words:

Absolutely an enchanting and magical story I enjoyed very much.

Well-said and well-done

My thanks to Book Whisperer and Netgalleys for this ARC

"6:40 to Montreal", by Eva Jurczyk

Agatha Christie, meet Eva Jurczyk.

Agatha, a writer with a huge inspiration block needs to step back from her daily life: away from her husband and son and meet a friend in Montreal. She boarded the 6:40 Via Rail passenger train on time. Now on her way to what is expected a 5 hours ride but the weather had other intent…a raging snow storm soon engulfed the travellers. Unlucky, the train breaks down pushing Agatha’s plans in question.…. Then the unthinkable happens, a passenger is found dead….setting chaos in motion throughout the car.

I think the whole premise was ridiculous and unbelievable. The way the man was murdered and how the aftermath developed was insane. We have multiple characters: the car attendant responsibilities are to provide service and attend to passengers’ comfort Dorcas was at total lost when the train and communication stopped. Finch was the poor soul who was bitten by a spider and died, Jeff an elderly man was stupid enough to leave the security of the train by breaking a window (windows have latches) to wander in an unknown field in a snow storm ( no sane Canadian would do that). Then you have a mother and son so messed up it was laughable. To put the sherry on the Sunday, a woman with an axe to grind against Agatha had her day….

15 hours later they made it to Kingston 289 km from destination… boy I will pass on a train ride next time I plan to go to Toronto or back from there.

The flow worked pretty well and kept a steady pace. Although a weird story, it was interesting enough to have kept me captive till the very last page. But to spoil a story give it an iffy ending. It was time to close the book…

I have strong feeling about the characters…none were appealing…Ms Jurczyk populates her narrative with flat characters ….point final.

This is not Agatha Christie “Murder on the Orient Express” far from it.

I received this ARC from Poisoned Penn Press via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"Nobodies", by Warren Adler and Shannon McKenna

This is a gritty noir crime thriller of deception, revenge and redemption penned by a most prolific authors I had the pleasure to discover a long time ago. “Nobodies” is my 21th book. Unfortunately, Mr. Adler passed away some time back leaving his unfinished manuscript in the hands of Adler Entertainment Trust. Ms. McKenna was tasked to bring it to life by adding her personal touch and did honour to the master by giving us an awesome thriller.

Set in the shadows of New York City, the story has Henry Cody hiding under an assumed name plotting revenge against the people who ruined his life while Amber Wright, a career con artist with a shady past cross’s path with him… their fates are tied …….

Told from different character perspectives and shifting timeframes this story has a cinematic flair to it and is shrewdly done. I admit at first, I was totally lost and thought I wouldn’t enjoy it but lo and behold I found myself suck into the dark world of organized crime and from that point on I had a hard time setting this book aside. The tense atmosphere is masterfully crafted and is filled with murkiness, suspense and many plot twists. We have a perfect balance between the intense action and how the characters pondered the moment. Surprising the story is believable…. even with the tad of humour injected from time to time.

Love them or hate them the characters are richly developed and compelling. This tale of two fugitives who risk everything to take down the corrupt while outrunning their past and save themselves is entertaining and should please most.

My thanks to Book Whisperer for this ARC which I received via Netgalley

"O' Deadly Night " by Vicki Delany

Year-Round Christmas Mystery book # 8

A cozy mystery

The story in a few words:

Mrs. D’Angelo is the center of all gossip and is determined to introduce herself to the new arrivals across from her house but soon she noticed strange things about them …. Then, strangely Mabel D’ Angelo disappears. Merry Wilkinson a long-time friend is worried and admits something might be terribly wrong……

My thoughts:

In a steady pace the story moseys along and we see Merry sleuthing doing what she does best searching for clues and finally figuring out what happened, where Marbel was, why this occurred and who was behind this kidnapping. Mabel was not alone where she was found….a body was lying at the bottom of the basement….murder, suspense and mystery… the why, the who, the what….

Cute little mystery well said and well done but easy to figure who might be the killer ..

I received this ARC from Crooked Lane Books via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I

"Leverage", by Amran Gowani

Money talks

Mr. Gowani took his experiences as a Wall Street analyst to pen a high finance thriller with all the shenanigans that comes with it. Through the eyes of Ali Jafar, a Pakistani, we see what happens when a trusted hedge fund manager looses $300 millions for his company and the reaction that came from his boss. In this thriller Al is given $300 million with a challenge to double it within three months or become the fall guy for insider trading investigation that was going on at the firm……

Money talks

I like how Ali was propelled into success but also drawn into a complex word of blackmail and mistrust. The plot is tense without being overly taxing or straining plausibility too far. It also give us an insight of racist and sexist world of finances…maybe not…..The stereotypes financiers are well described….but will I look (speak) at my advisor the same way without thinking of Ali and what when on in this thriller? If what is said could in any shape and form be possible….no wonder the stock market is so volatile…..

Money talks

This story keeps a good pacing throughout; it is mainly said to keep us attentive till the very last word The writing style is witty with dark humour and lots of suspense.….but I have a but here, I found too much pop culture references and Al tends to masturbate a lot…why did we need to know this….

This is not a typical story I would pick up but strange as it may be the finance lingo was an added experience I will benefit from.

“Leverage” gives us a good story but it is will not please everyone.

I received this ARC from Atria Books via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it

"A Fool Indeed", by Dean Conan

The Fool’s Gold Chronicles book #2

Charles Fuller, one-time ladies’ man is newly married to Meghan, he loves her dearly and also wants to make success of his newly stated business. But Charles (Charlie Mo) is on the hunt for a man who stole a great amount of money and at the same time needed to fend off a ruthless gangster who wants eagerly to become a business partner…Charlie has a full plate and in “A Fool Indeed” trouble raises its ugly face …..

My thoughts:

Not much to this small book the plot line genre goes back to the 1990’s and centers on some aspects and depictions of Black culture and life where profanity, gratuitous sex and violence is in full display. Although I didn’t find it to be over the top most of the time it is nevertheless filled with partying, money and loose women with exotic names: Ice cream Carmen, Deadly Dominique…and on and on.

This story is somewhat entertaining but apart from being a total escapism I think I would have been better to pass time with a story more engaging and better written.

Fool me once, shame on me, fool me twice you surely a fool indeed

I received this book from the first reviewer program for my thoughts.

"Bad Juliet", by Giles Blunt

Recently jilted by his fiancée, Paul Gascoyne takes a job as a tutor to the patients at the Trudeau Sanatorium in upstate New York. he finds himself drawn to Sarah Ballard, a beautiful but enigmatic young woman, traumatized by her past aboard the ill-fated Lusitania. To rouse her out of her gloom, Paul encourages her to write a memoir. “Bad Juliet” tells what happened……enjoy.

Set in a sanitarium among the awe-inspiring lakes and forests of upstate New York, this powerful and engrossing tale of a famous Broadway playwright, a struggling poet and a beautiful woman suffering from tuberculosis which both men love held me in its grip from the opening chapter.

The masterful prose of Giles Blunt, a writer at the top of his game, captures the world of an early twentieth century sanitorium beautifully. His tantalizing narrative is magic and reveals tragedy, lies, and passionate love among characters who are much more complicated than they seem at first glance. This compelling journey filled with twists that occurs when obsessive love sets itself inside one’s mind is well paced and well done.

A side note:

Mr. Blunt after learning the remarkable history of Saranac Lake and the pioneering sanitarium that put it on the world map a hundred years ago, took a new direction for his fiction and wanted to tell the most compelling story. Mr. Blunt you did it. Sarah Ballard, the “Bad Juliet” won my heart also.

I received this ARC from Dundurn Press via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it

"The Deepest Fake", by Daniel Kalla

Tech CEO Liam Hirsch has just received a terminal diagnosis of ALS and to make things worst his wife is cheating on him and has been caught in flagrante delicto in bed with another man, photos as prove taken by Andrea DeWalt, a P.I. Liam had hired.

While Liam’s company is preparing to launch a new app “Séance AI” which allows users to create an avatar of a dead relative but as the deadline approaches, he notices discrepancies in the co.’s finances. Liam grows paranoid wondering could his troubles be generated by AI?.......and the fun begins. Enjoy.

I simple love this tale. It has so many twists and turns it is hard to figure what is really happening and who may be behind all Liam’s troubles. Are they fake or real or simply in Liam’s mind., is IA playing tricks and altering reality. What an emotional roller-coaster we are into. It was hard not to get invested with what was going on…troubles at works, trouble at home, trouble with his health …or not.

An excellent character-driven novel. Although it may start slow but once you get to know the protagonist you are right with him through all the anxiety and fear he faces. It kinds of rub on you. At one point I starting to question myself and getting paranoid also…naw, not really. I trust my gut.

In whole “The Deepest Fake” is a fast-paced page turner with many spins to derail you, one hard to guess the outcome and a pleasure to pass time with.

Well-said and well-done

Many thanks to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for this ARC

"Sky's Shadow", by Ted Galdi

Tommy Dapino, book #1

Tommy is a firefighter goes on a vigilante mission after the death of his sister under mysterious circumstances. Tommy is tough and an essentially charismatic individual but he is an ex-felon right out of Attica now he needs to con his way around, get a copy of his sister’s case and set out to take the killer down….this story tells us the trail he took to achieve his goal….

You have to leave your believes behind to enjoy this unbelievable story if not you will think it totally ridiculous….The protagonist is somewhat a jerk who acts like nothing fizzes him, manipulates a young FBI Agent to help him. He hits obstacles one after the other but manages to come out alright….

All this said in a very choppy ways: short sentences and short chapters, the dialogue is even more ratatata adding intensity and excitement for us to keep flipping the pages for the outcome…will Tommy succeed or fail? Action galore.

I wasn’t sure at first if I liked this story where helping veterans get organs someone needed to die and where did Tommy’s sister fit in the equation, yes, we do have an answer…I will assure that when this fast and furious story exploded mid way I was totally hooked. This is one story you need to take one bite at a time to enjoy.

In whole: “Sky’s Shadow” is an enjoyable read

Thank you, Mr. Galdi for providing me with a copy of your book

"Hawke's Code" by Ty Patterson

Can be found under “Ax Storm” on some platform

Hawke and Stryker Thrillers book # 3

Reem al-Farhan, a former Saudi royal guard, has settled in New York and started a new life. She offers her security services to members of the royal family. She is tasked to keep an eye on Samira, a Saudi Princess.

When Samira askes her to find out about a charity that helps women in conflict zone which she oversees. It seems a simple request…until Reem becomes the target of snipers. They thought scaring her would be enough to deter her…..They were wrong. They had ignored the existence of Hawke and Stryker her friends, New York`s toughest PIs…and the show starts…..enjoy

Take notice Ty Patterson`s thrillers are very addictive especially if you love never ending actions. You surely have it, lots of big bang, car races, going through hoops and bounds. Of course, the plot is fast and furious, not a moment respite from the beginning till the end. The narrative active but even with all the technicality simple to follow. But why stay in New York Mr. Patterson sends his characters to Milan where the adventure takes an exciting spin….

I was totally into this story; I couldn’t keep flipping the pages fast enough to see the outcome. Definitely one story hard to put down.

Well said and well-done Ty and thank you for the hours of entertainment.

"The Obsessions of Harvey Usher", by David Putnam

The story in a few words:

At eighty years old, Harvey Usher lives a quiet, reclusive life, still grieving the loss of his beloved wife, Sylvia. But when a stunning redhead named Rita shows up, claiming to be his wife of two years, Harvey's carefully constructed world begins to crumble. Then starts a cat and mouse game where long buried truths come to light. What true motives does Rita have? Harvey must decide who he can trust….

My thoughts:

I was very intrigued at first and enjoyed how tense and clever the plot was. But as it progressed it grew repetitive and dragged a lot. The dual timelines of past and present with change in the characters name simply added confusion. Around page 100 I was totally bored, this story had lost my interest and never regained it. Even with the sluggish pacing and the lack of clarity I managed to lumber along and eventually make it to the very last word. “ouf” I made it….

Do misdeeds from the past comes back to haunt you? Was Rita a Trojan horse place by Harvey’s enemies? Was Harvey suffering from dementia and fooled by a charming temptress? I leave it to you to find out.

A final note:

Some reviewers acknowledged that overall story was strong and kept them engaged. The mix of crime, personal history, and emotional depth had resonated well with them. Maybe you will feel the same?

I received this ARC from Level Best Books for my thoughts: this is the way I see it

"Tracking Evil", by Melinda Woodhall

A Bailey Flynn Mystery book # 7

When one of Melinda Woodhall’s stories comes out I surely wouldn’t want to miss out on the offer to read and review it. I am a huge fan and so far, Melinda hasn’t disappointed.

The story is a few words:

In this latest we at the luxurious Bellamy Island Resort taking part in a bachelorette party when a murder is committed. Agent Bailey Flynn suspects the same man who had strangled the bride to be decade earlier is at work again. During her investigation an unidentified set of remains is found close by, could this new find also be related? Bailey had to get to the bottom pronto before things get out of hands and teaming up with profiler Bridget Bishop is what was needed. They then set off to track down the serial killer before he strikes again.

My thoughts:

As always, the story is fast paced, action packed and filled with excitement. Another one of those stories hard to put down. Although we follow different stands the plot is easy to follow and will keep the interest till the final word. After many books I still find the characters to be enjoyable and how they interact with each other warm.

Although part a series this book stands well by its own so no worries if you pick up this one at this stage.

Another great story and an enjoyable read that is well-said and well-done.

I received this ARC for free with no obligations to write a review.

"A Bookseller in Madrid", by Mario Escobar

Late 1930’s Madrid

Mario Escobar knows how to pull us into moments in history and has a way to mesmerise us with his rich and active narrative. His favourite topics bring us to Spain usually when the world is upside down. His latest is factional but the story is woven against a background of real people, places and events.

“The Bookseller in Madrid” pulls us into the world of Barbara Spiel, a German woman who fled Nazi Germany after witnessing the chilling Nazi book burnings events. She ended up in Madrid smack in the middle of political chaos to open a bookshop, a haven for free thinkers. She soon gets caught up in the politics between Franco’s fascists, Stalinist, republicans, communists and others fighting to maintain or gain political control. She also married Juan, a mid-level government official in the Second Spanish Republic at the time.

Just as Germany seems to be leading Europe toward a Second World War, Spain appears to be headed toward a brutal Civil War.

This is her story…

This story grabbed me from the start although slow moving at first with lots of insights of political atmosphere at that time, all the information can be overwhelming but I urge you to be patient the time is worth it. The last half is a real page-turner. It provides the challenges those who flee their own countries to live in unfamiliar places had to face, it was even tougher when the environment is unsafe.

In his notes, the author state that he made every attempt to accurately portray the primary setting and the political reality of Madrid at the time, a Madrid controlled by the checas that terrorized a vast number of citizens. I think he achieved his goal…

Interesting and captivating at the same time. Excellent read: well said and well done.

I received this ARC from Harper Muse via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"Dogged Pursuit", by David Rosenfelt

Andy Carpenter book #31

A Legal Mystery

I didn’t know at the time that this latest was a prequel to the Andy Carpenter Mystery series. Knowing this now, things become clear why I thought the story seemed to revert in time…why do this I stay puzzled.

The story in a few words:

Andy has left his job as a prosecutor to open his own defense practice. While visiting a shelter to adopt a dog he bonded with golden retriever named Tara. Not wanted to leave Sunny, a beagle and kennel-mate behind, Andy wanted to take him home also, but one hick: incarcerated Frank Tierney Sunny’s owner needed to give a written consent.

Thus began a new chapter in Andy’s life launching is new career by defending Frank Tierney and having two furry friends to share his home….

My thoughts:

Definitely a starting point for those not familiar with the series not only will you find it engaging but also filled with humour and suspense.

Bringing us back in time those who read other books will remember familiar names Sam, Pete, Laurie his wife, Edna and Marcus they all play an intricate part to make this mystery captivating. Andy’s client Frank accused of murdering his ex-boss and two ex-coworkers in a car bomb blast seemed a case hard to break but Andy uses all his wits and connections to win the game…..along the way we witness a realistic investigation to pin point the whodunit that will eventually bring us to a very well-done courtroom scene.

I stayed totally captivated with this story. Hard not to when a story is active, well written and has wonderful characters.

Well-said and well-done.

Thank you, St-Martin Press and Netgalley for this ARC

"The Shadow of Everest", by Mr. Frederick G. Yeager

The story in a few words:

Nepal, a nation on the brink of chaos, a civil war rages between Maoist rebels and the government. Catherine Durand, an advocate for women’s rights is on a mission determined to empower women and combat child trafficking. She finds herself into a perilous journey where she faces life threatening dangers. This story will tell how she survived the unforgiving elements….

My thoughts:

I have mixed feeling about this story. Although well said and quite active I had a hard time staying totally engaged, why? I knew little about the history and the struggles that country endured. Two sides fighting: the Maoists’ aim was to benefit the poor sectors of society by uprooting the monarchy and feudalism…of course the government wanted everything status quo….

Catherine is a very naïve woman with an unrealistic objective to find every child kidnapped sold into prostitution and empower women to reach their full potential….but how to do this where men had the power to beat and expel them at a whim. I found she is too gung-ho to think right and the decisions she makes questionable….I did like the story, the theme so deferent one that brings you to a country not for its beauty (Mont Everest and scenery) but for its ugliness…

We find many characters from Catherine’s colleagues, her boss, the army personal, the Maoists fighters, the impoverished, people who helped Catherine and many more taking parts in making this a good story to enjoy.

“The Shadow of Everest” piqued my interest in learning more about the history of Nepal.

I received a copy of this book from The Book Whisperer for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"Those Who Dare" by Phil Ward

Raiding Force book #1

First published in 2010

This series begins with the birth of special operations that lead to hit and run raids against Hitler’s war machine by the British Forces under the command of Lieutenant John Randal of the U.S. 26th Cavalry Regiment. He had never been placed in charge of people that he didn’t know and had no idea what obstacles and challenges he had to overcome. What unfolds is a blend of military tactics, suspense and war buddy comradery…and a little romance and much more….

I almost drop this around chapter 4; I simply couldn’t get into all the rigorous military training the men had to endure. Chapter 5 brought an interesting twist when Lady Jane Seaborn came into play and her presence spiked things little bit and what came next became clear and “Those Who Dare” finally had my full attention.

This story bounces with humour, light romantic intrigue and British speech, slang and all. Not surprising the author male fantasy depicted all the women as pin-up girls but gave them high-ranking officers status…hum. Ok..

Once the Commando was deployed to France, their mission was highly risky and the author’s knowledge in war fair tactics were at its best. The details war extremely visual even you can hear the rat-ta-ta, pap pap, boom boom, bang bang, the whizzing, humming or hissing of the artillery and the yells of dying men.

Of course, the mission came to an end and the “Raiding Force” out preparing for another mission….

This historical fiction based on real events is well-researched, well said and well-done.

"Dead Wrong", by Leighann Dobbs

Blackmore Sisters book #1

First published in 2013

This is a clean cozy mystery that most will enjoy

What happens in this mystery:

Morgan and Fiona Blackmoore enjoy their simple life in the sleepy ocean-side town of Noquitt Maine where they offer herbal remedies and crystal healing for locals and tourists alike.

...Until Morgan is accused of killing the town shrew, Prudence Littlefield.

Then the mystery starts…….

My thoughts:

Although the plot makes questionable sense it still provides an interesting read. It takes us at a quaint town where shops are so appealing you wants to step in and sample their herbs or crystals, we have the most amazing cat that is cunning and seems to read your mind and you will step into an attic filled with mystery, so what it not to like.

The main characters are sisters Morgan, Fiona, Jolene Blackmore and a dashing police officer Jake Cooper.

The narrative is simple and switches between one sister to the other following this back and forth can be confusing at times but I managed to place which one took center stage eventually. The language is clean and clear so is the narrative. The plot moves at a slow pace and keeps this way till the very end.

Solving a murder as described here is illogical in my view: I don’t think, police would give suspect access to a murder scene to trample on the evidence but doing so may have been the solution here. You will see….

Belladonna, the cat, antics are so spooky I was wondering when it would change into a witch…quite intriguing, I think this cat won my heart.

In whole the simpleness and how everything smoothly falls into place without an itch makes reading this mystery a relaxing read: no challenge and no words seeking clarification. clear and simple from start to finish.

"Winston Churchill", by Kurt Thomas

The political career of the greatest Briton

This book was published in 2016 and stood idle in my library since then, it was time to get to it.

Not being a huge book, 144 pages or so, highlights briefly the life of Britain most controversial politician who is known over the world for the speeches he gave, his sharp wit, his observations and his ability to make strategic political decisions. This book brings forward interesting facts that I didn’t know; he once was a prisoner of war, a talented painter, won the Noble prize for literature and was subject of various controversies.

What I think about this book

If you want some quick information about Winston Churchill other what Wikipedia gives you get this book. For in depth knowledge stay with books written by historians. I like the succinct and informative narrative without getting bogged down with too much politics et made for easy and restful reading. The version I have is airy with lots of short paragraphs and no nonsense verbalize. This book is short and to the point and start with his family history and ends with Mr. Churchill death.

In all an enjoyable book

"Them Bones", by David Housewright

McKenzie Novel #22

This is my first experience reading Mr. Housewright and reading this book way into the series was not a challenge but it did pique my curiosity to see what events brought us to this point.

Rushmore McKenzie, the main character, is a former law enforcement that became PI after he was bestowed with a massive amount of wealth. He retains a multitude of formal and informal contacts to help him. He operates out of Minneapolis.

The story in a few words:

It starts with the discovery and theft of a dinosaur skull uncovered at a digging site. This mystery laid at the feet of our PI. Two things McKenzie hates, to turn down a request from a friend and a challenge. The request came from Angela Bjor, a doctoral candidate, who was at the dig site in Montana. When the group she was with was attacked and the skeleton of an Ankylosaurus worth millions was stolen, time to take action and McKenzie was called……and the excitement began sending McKenzie eventually out of state and into Canada.

Is there no honor among thieves? Evidently, not when dinosaur skulls are involved.

My thoughts

After a slow start and a lot of Paleontology talk, the plot finally keeps a decent pace when McKenzie shows up and the narrative becomes active and keeps the story smooth sailing till the end. Yes, McKenzie brought the dinosaur home and we find out who the thefts are…all ends well.

They are multiple characters some from previous stories but the lack of details on them was unnecessary to enjoy the plot, they blended in without a hitch. One hick, omitting references to sport teams and their stadiums which took too much pace and didn’t bring any thing could have been skipped. But well done is how the author is adroit in introducing red herrings to keep us guessing and teasing us to figure out who could be complicit in the theft. I especially loved the vivid sense of place: dusty sites and all.

My thanks to St-Martin Press for this ARC which I received via Netgalley

"Fifty-Fifty", by Steve Cavanagh

Eddie Flynn, book #5

A legal Thriller:

This is the second book I had the pleasure to read and I assure you that Mr. Cavanagh has won my heart: I simply love his style, I am totally addicted. Although this latest is part of a series, it stands well by itself. We have enough background to satisfy us and move forward without being lost.

“Fifty-Fifty” is a straightforward drama featuring Eddie Flynn, a maverick lawyer who is out to help people. He can tell when someone is lying and he concentrates on those he thinks are innocent, he doesn’t defend the guilty ones.

This brings me to the plot in few words:

A murder was committed. The victim’s daughters are the prime suspects: which one is the murderer and why is the other being framed….Alexandra and Sofia’s reputation preceded them. Yet not only one of them is a murderer but also a serial killer, a psychopath, utterly cold with one thing in minds framing her sister……At trial, the evidence could either way…..and the courtroom scenes are exciting and well-done.

Our job as reader is to find out which sister is guilty. The story told from the point of view of the two lawyers defending the sisters and “She” the sister who is the killer. “She, the killer is a calculating and very determined individual. Did I ever spent time trying to pin point which one did it. Mid way I though I had identified her. Then, this story threw in so many double bluffs and false leads, back and forth it went everything lead to one then the other but why would a daughter commit patricide?

I like the characters; Kate the other defending lawyer is a bit formulaic and the supporting cast quite cliché but these minor flaws doesn’t remove anything from this story. It is well-said and well-done.

Many thanks to Atria Books for this ARC

"The Last Conclave", by Glenn Cooper

A Gripping Vatican conspiracy

After the death of Pope John XXIV, the world braces for a new conclave but once the cardinals are sealed inside the Sistine Chapel, something inconceivable happens…..The Cardinals have vanished without a trace.

A vanished conclave, an empty Sistine Chapel and a secret buried for eight centuries.

What a thrilling read from the opening page till the very last, it was definitely a hard story to put aside. This mystery is of kidnapping and Catharism, a movement that thrived in Southern Europe in the 12th to the 14th centuries and was denounced as heretical leading to violent suppressions, Crusade and inquisitions by the Catholic Church. Mr. Cooper talks a lot about this in his book, quite interesting and informative.

The plot couldn’t be any faster and very suspenseful when CNN religious expert Carl Donovan on site to cover the conclave finds himself dragged into a global investigation and more so, when he uncovers the trail leading back to a centuries-old order…..one waiting in the shadows to strike…..As a result, the ancient secrets could and will shake the foundations of faith…The blend of the lost world of the Cathars with the present day crisis in the Catholic Church was seamless done and perfectly woven.

This story has taking me on a colourful journey to the most holy of place and has opened my eyes on part of history I had no knowledge of.

This religious thriller is worth every page…

Nicely said and nicely-done

I received a copy of this book via the publisher Book Whisperer for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"Dead Silence", by John W. Mefford

Alex & Ozzie: Dark Horizon #2

What happened to Ozzie’s family? His wife and kids went missing without a trace after a short vacation that turned out longer than was expected….In panic Ozzie travels south to a small town where they were last seen…..but no one there will answer his questions……from then on things turned for the worst…..

I loved the first half in this story. Bit by bit we follow the Ozzie’s efforts to find his family, the tension is palpable and I felt for Ozzie not being able to get answers, even the sheriff did everything to thwart his efforts. Something was not right and Ozzie needed to find out why.

Now as for the second half I admit it did not touch me in the same way as the first part did. It seemed to me that Mr. Mefford ran out of ideas and rehashed the same old thing till finally he gave his drama the drive needed to make “Dead Silence” worth our while. Although by that time my mind had wandered too much to have stayed focused and by then the end couldn't come fast enough.

Ozzie is a good character and plays well his role as a private investigator and has all the attributes to give us and exciting saga but his latest escapade felt off beat and did not provide all the excitement I previously experienced…but it’s me, judge for yourselves you may think differently.

Not bad but by far not my preferred book by Mr. Mefford.

Thank you John, till next time.

"A Dead Draw", by Robert Dugoni

I started this series 3 books back and like its predecessors this one also can be read as a standalone. If you are a fan of Robert Dugoni you will want to pick up this latest installment.

The murder of her sister Sarah 20 years ago has driven Tracy Crosswhite to become a detective in the cold cases department of Seattle Police Department; Tracy has been haunted ever since that day. When Erik Schmidt, the prime suspect in the murder case was released on a technicality, Tracy was certain that this cold-blooded psychopath was guilty and determined to prove it.

This story is overwhelming with dry details about guns and shooting competitions, but be assured it an integral part in this story. This latest is a little more technical with the legal stuff also.

As the story slowing build-up setting the scene for a game of cat and mouse to the ultimate showdown, we see Tracy going back to basics and remembering the past. How stress, trauma, PTSD and pressure could affect someone is very well center stage. Drawing from years of training, wits and strength Tracy will get her man…but I will leave you to discover how she goes about it….If you enjoy police procedurals, strong female leads, this book is for you.

Thank you, Thomas & Mercer for this ARC

"Bodies and Battlements", by Elizabeth Penney

Ravensea Castle book #1

After a thousand years of ownership, Ravensea Castle became a bed and breakfast with herbalist Nora Asquith there to welcome guests. But things turn unexpected, when Hilda Dibble, a local, is found dead in the garden the next morning. Nora’s business is not only at risk but she is also the prime suspect…..Enjoy.

This is one of those cozy mystery that mosey along from start to finish. Not complicated at all to follow, my brain wasn’t taxed trying to figure what was happening. The author is clear on her intent and expresses well where she is going and where she wants us to be. By giving little bites one at a time and unwrapping slowly each layer with just the right amount of suspense and voilà I was easily grabbed till I reached the end. Of course, along the way we have all sorts of red herrings and complications. I love the setting, an old castle with beautiful gardens and a ghost roaming the rooms doesn`t do any harm either, although far from being original…castle do have ghost, I am told 😊. Nicely depicted. We have a panoply of eccentric characters: parents, family and friends, a hunky policeman and a heroine/business owner to entertain us.

Good story that investigates a suspicious murder in a haunted British castle-tuned bed and breakfast.

I received this ARC from St. Martin’s Press via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it

"You Are Dead", by Peter James

Roy Grace book # 11

Once I started reading this mystery, I had a hard time to stop. I treasure Roy Grace series although I am way behind into it but I will bit by bit catch up one day. In the meantime, I am savouring every moment.

Roy Grace is the type of investigator you would want should a loved one be a victim. He is driven, methodical and is no fool. The author tells us a lot in the space given within the binding of this complex story and in no ways do we feel rushed.

It begins with audacious abduction of a young woman named Logan Somerville from her parking garage and the discovery of a decaying corpse of a woman at a construction site. Is someone targeting young women? Bizarrely the bodies have been branded with the words “U R Dead”…..and then goes Grace trying to finds links between the murders before the killer strikes again.

This story is said in short chapters leaving details to a minimum, it only reveals what is necessary at a given time. It flows seamlessly and holds attention till the very end. Mr. James manages to add enough surprises and drama that by the end you will be rooting for the police….but did they get their man… as this story unfolded, the suspense held me captive till I reached the conclusion.

Not surprising, Sandy, Roy’s first wife as a small part an I expect she will resurface at another time…

In a few words:

Filled with twists and turns, “Your Are Dead” is a solidly-written story that no doubt will keep you on your toes until the very end.

"The Edge of Guilt", by David Miraldi

A Legal thriller

Inspired by true events this gripping legal drama is captivating to no ends. It tells the story of a father devastated by the tragic death of his daughter, convinced that her psychiatrist is to blame. He seeks an attorney and enters Paul Schofield, a struggling attorney, taking the case….

What a well-crafted story told with a measured prose and efficient pacing while it delves into the human psyche. The more Paul digs, the more he uncovers buried secrets and ethical dilemmas that shake him to his core. The author’s words reflect the inner turmoil he faces with aplomb. Nicely said and done. The courtroom scenes are filled with tension ….a fine line between greed and justice becomes rather vague…all along the proceedings I stood on the fence undecided if I was on the father side or not, whether I wanted Paul to win or loose the case.

I was hooked from the start; the storyline is captivating and plays with your emotions to keep you engaged till you reach the final verdict. What a wonderful blend of courtroom suspense and ethical ambiguity. The author excelled in bringing to life a case where the areas of justice, morality and grief are conflicting.

Well-done, well-said.

Thank you Book Whisperer for providing this ARC for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"The Silo", by Greg Heist

What an outstanding debut novel by a retired Police Captain, Greg Heist. In this gripping psychological thriller, the author has brought first hand knowledge by blending authentic police procedural with a family mystery.

Set in rural Midwest, we follow Detective Frank Braun interrogates Jacob Weaver, a young man facing life in prison. The case is not that simple, as the interrogation goes on, family traumas and truths rise to the surface to finally end in a confrontation at the long-abandoned silo at the Weaver family farm.

I simply loved this short story of around 170 pages. It is one of the best police procedurals I read this year.

It is mainly said in dialogue, exchange between Frank and Jacob as the Detective pursuits his questioning. The language is clear and shows the characters internal struggles. Jacob is a scare young man and Frank shows empathy towards him and wants to help him reveals his dark family secrets at his own pace. The author paints vivid picture of the going-on, every word is active and well placed. The characters are easy to love not really any bad guys just people put in awkward position trying to get a grip on the situation. It has a shocking ending but what an ending it was.

This thriller is well-said and well-done. I hope to be privilege once again.

My thanks to Lisa from Swell Media for providing me with a copy of this book

"The Last Secret Agent", by Pippa Latour, Jude Dobson

This book is the extraordinary untold story of a heroine who parachuted into occupied France in 1944, spied for Britain, defied the Nazis and never told a soul till the day her sons surfing the internet found out about their mother's exceptional achievements and asked her to write her story.

Pipa Latour was one of the last female special operations agents in France to get out alive after its liberation in WW11

Pipa was only 23 years when she was trained by the British and sent to France posing as a 14-year-old selling soap to help her grandparents survive. Her cover story enabled her to travel freely on her bicycle selling soap to German soldiers and sending information back to England via code.

This book tells how her life was: rough, foraging for food and sleeping in the woods….and being in constant danger. What an astonishing life of bravery, if she been discovered, she would have been shot instantly.

She made it out and ended up in New Zealand and before she died last year at age 102, she told her story to Jude Dobson, the co-author.

Being told in the first-person narrative makes the reading personal. The tempo is very active and visual. It is easy to stay tune and in step with Pipa. What a brave young woman she was. Following her was quite a trip and a scary one many times over.

Pipa’s memoir is well-said, interesting and captivating.

Bravo for bringing this extraordinary person to life and giving us her amazing story.

My thanks to St. Martin’s Press for this ARC which I received via Netgalley

"I. Lafayette", by Carol Anne Dobson

Gilbert du Motier Marquis de Lafayette, known as Lafayette, was a French nobleman and military officer who volunteered to join the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He was commander in the final battle that eventually secured American Independence.

This book is said in the first-person narrative and of those of his contemporaries as Lafayette recounts his life and his paths through three revolutions.

This is a meaty book; the edition I received from the author is over 1200 pages. It starts before Lafayette was born and continues till his last breath.

Divided in two parts:

Part 1- Military Destiny has 32 chapters

Part 2- Trials and Destiny has 21 chapters

Epilogue, notes and bibliography close the book.

Every page is told in minutia details it was overwhelming to keep up. The presentation shows how invested the author was to pursuit her objective to create this work, 7 years in the making is said, this is dedication to the outmost.

The book is extremely well-written, the research extraordinary and the presentation very well done. All this merits 5 stars.

Where did it go wrong for me:

I found the story too long, too many unnecessary details and a boring account of someone long gone who lived from 1757 till 1834. My fault not the author’s in anyway. Certainly, historical buff will have a better understanding and would have a different outlook. This book was not my cup of tea, my apology to Ms. Dobson for my lack of interest I developed all along I kept reading.

I stand on the fence on this one not exactly hating it but not loving it by a long shot.