"The Secrets of Provence", by Daisy Wood

In a few words:

Provence 1940

Mathilde finds refuge with her cousin in Provence after the Nazis occupation of Paris. Once there she is soon drawn into the Resistance movement. Now force to live a life on the run, where betrayal is a constant threat. Mathilde soon discovers that deceit has to be her constant companion.

Paris, present day

Juliette thoughts are turned to tracing her roots. Curious to why her grandmother spent most of the war in Provence. What is Malthide up to? When an old photograph leads Juliette to a crumbling château what she uncovers will change her life.

My thoughts:

This book continues the story of Jacques and Mathilde whom we met in “The Forgotten Bookshop in Paris”. No worries if you didn’t read it first “The Secrets of Provence” stands well by its own.

The seamless blend of two timeline: the past and present are said with emotional depth one that has kept my attention from start to finish. The warm narrative is filled with so much heart wrenching moments of the reality of war that will inevitably break your heart, I found it to be quite an emotional read. Of course, I love books highlighting resistance movements and this story does honour to the various organisations that existed. Mathilde is just an example of courage and determination needed to survive. In alternate chapters, the voices of our main characters shine and their stories will hold everyone captive till the very last page.

The action of men and women of the resistance was to the point and excellently depicted. At times, the tempo seems to slow down mainly for greater effect and did this pretty well IMO. On a final note, the characters couldn’t have played their roles better.

Well said and well-done

"Three Marys", by Glenn Cooper

Cal Donovan #2

Summary:

Three impossible births. Three incredible miracles. One deadly secret.

Three teenage girls all name Mary from different corners of the world have fallen pregnant, the three have been proven to be virgins. In view of this, Pope Celestine has summoned Harvard professor of religion and archaeology Cal Donavan to investigate. As Cal struggles to uncover the truth he soon realises that more than meet the eyes is at stake: could this apparent miracle cause the collapse of the Catholic faith.

Are the three teenagers really all bearing the son of God?

My thoughts:

This story is fun to read and is engaging. It gives us a mix of religious and adventure elements to capture our imagination till the very last page and does so very well. The author’s creativity is in over drive here, what a vivid imagine Glenn Cooper has…or maybe a twisted one 😊. The plot is not only entertaining it is also interesting. I zipped through it in no time so captivated was I. Yes, some will find the premise to be overboard and impossible: they would be definitely right in thinking so but I enjoyed every word, I was hooked from start to finish.

The cast of characters is original and I simply love Cal….is such an interesting and unusual character. We have action aplenty to keep us on our toes. This is definitely a plot driven story that moves along in a steady and moderate tempo and reveals its secrets drop by drop to keep up the suspense and us entertained till the very end.

Whether you are religious or not take this as a fun read to pass time with.

My thanks to Book Whisper/Lascaux Media for this ARC which I received via Netgalley

"Bianca's Cure", by Gigi Berardi

Renaissance Florence

At the core of this history driven story is the bond between Francesco de Medici and Bianca Capello and her obsession with science-artemisia and her pursuit of a cure for malaria. On the other hand, the Medici put alchemy ahead and were more concerned with science. Eventually, Bianca’s trajectory brought her to the Medici court and ultimately to the Grand Duchess’s seat.

The characters in his story were real figures at the time Florence was a republic and malaria was killing the Medicis.

“Bianca’s Cure” is a story of love, ambition and the ever-present threat of violence. It is not a feel-good story of feminine empowerment rather one of confrontation where tradition collides with invention and the opportunity for advancement.

I found this story to be in the tradition of the best historical fiction where the author has taken a least known woman and has created a stirring account of a relentless pursuit of a cure for the heat disease. This fiction depicts a life shrouded in mystery and the voice-driven narrative skillfully describes the tortuous path a woman of science takes.

Elegantly written “Bianca’s Cure” has intellectual depth as well as emotional drive and depicts science in a unique way. Bianca was well ahead of her time.

Her skill may have doom them both Francesco and herself….read it and find out for yourself….

I don’t mind passing time reading story that is well-said and well-done.

My thanks to the publisher She Writes Press for this ARC which I received via Book Whisper and Netgalley

"Her Cold Justice", by Robert Dugoni

Keera Duggan #3

A Legal Thriller

The story in a few words:

Michael Westbrook is accused of the double murder of a suspected drug dealer and his girlfriend. His uncle JP Harrison turns to Keera Duggan to defend him. JP is Keera’s trusted investigator and is desperately needs her help. The case looks grave but Keera will never concede defeat.

Even if it is part of a series this story stands well by itself.

My thoughts:

Robert Dugoni as slowly won my heart and is now on my list of must-read authors. If you haven’t read any of his works, you are missing out. He excels setting a plot that will hook you from the start, slowly introducing his characters and giving them lots of charisma to charm us.

I love how he unravels his story smoothly, slowly drawing us into a very suspenseful investigation and letting anticipation build into our mind to hold us captive till the outcome is finalized. Although further Keera gets into the trial; danger rises and deeper the team digs in and a question arises what is the prosecutor, Kim Tran, intent and what is she up to? Playing with the rules to muddy the water….and how come she seems to anticipate what Keera will do…all this letting the stage for an exciting investigation and court drama which are both very well executed case that is not just about murder rather a conspiracy….. I was so taken in by what was going on I didn’t see time pass.

“Her Cold Justice “, is well written, captivating and very suspenseful….an excellent addition to the series.

My thanks to Thomas& Mercer and to Netgalley for this ARC

"Sign of the Cross", by Glenn Cooper

Cal Donovan book #1,

A religious conspiracy of the crucifixion

The story in a few words:

Abruzzo, Italy: a young priest suffers the stigmata of the crucifixion. From the Vatican, the Pope calls on Harvard professor Cal Donovan to investigate the truth of Padre Gio claim. Cal is determined to uncover the truth and the cause of the mysterious wounds.

Berlin, Germany: a neo-Nazi organisation believes the priest is the key to an earth-shattering secret. A secret that can be used as a deadly weapon.

When the priest is abducted, a perilous race against the clock begins. Only Cal can track down the ruthless organisation and stop it, before an apocalyptic catastrophe is unleashed.

My thoughts:

There is a lot going on in this book as it toggles from the current day story to back in time to the stories of the men who were involved in the kidnapping of padre Gio. This backstory lays the groundwork for the plot and all eventually comes together at the conclusion. But I admit for a good part of this story I was overwhelmed trying to piece all parts together. It appeared disjointed and quite a challenge to stay with it but as I got further into the storyline it does eventually blend nicely and I was happy to have stuck with it. The action takes us from Italy to Germany in search of the truth about the padre condition and who was behind his kidnapping.

I was glued to Cal quest when he teamed up with Gio sister Irene and they set out in a perilous race against the clock and unravel the mystery and track down and save Gio. This part was exciting and very suspenseful. The fast-paced narrative that intertwine historical and religious themes is engaging and the exploration of religious relics although less than original was nevertheless captivating.

If you are interested in a story with a religious twist, you may enjoy this one.
I wish to thank the publisher Book Whisperer for this eBook which I received via Netgalley

"Passport to Spy", by Nancy Cole Silverman

Kat Lawson Mystery #2

Kat is an investigative reporter for the Phoenix Gazette behind this facade she is an undercover traveling journalist working for the FBI. Her assignment is to get close to Hans von Hausmann, a charming museum curator suspected to be hiding artwork stolen from Jewish families during WW11, specifically the Gerhardt Hoard. The story tells us the relationship between Kat and Hans and the unknown dangers Kat has to travers and along the way who can be or cannot be trusted.

My thoughts:

This well paced plot overflows with heart-pounding moments and intrigue and filled us with excitement as we follow Kat crisscross unknow dangers. The plot gives us so many unexpected twists and turns that from the beginning I was hooked. Love this story, this mix of actual facts and vivid imagination is very well-done. Kat does get close to Hans and his sister Erika Schonburg in hope to find out is there is truth to that rumour and where these treasures might be hidden….but fate got in the way and a Russian got in the picture…

The author has a knack of capturing the Bavarian culture and mentality and has enclosed all this in a story filled with spies, secrets and the boot a beautiful setting and wonderful characters.

Well said and well done

I received this review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

"Kashmir", by Ty Patterson

Zeb Carter book #16

Zeb and his crew are sent to Kashmir to gather intelligence on the ground realities in Kashmir: their mandate is clear….to observe and report. Not to intervene. What they don’t know is their friend Meera Bhosle, an Indian intelligence agent is also there undercover to expose drug networks…..all worked well till she’s burned. Nothing Zeb wouldn’t do for his friend even if it comes with catastrophic risk.

My thoughts:

Mr. Patterson is sticking to his great formulae: sent his team on a risky mission in an exotic or troubled region and have them save the day. Along the way give his readers an exciting story with lots of action and suspense to keep them captive till the very last page. How can he keep us, his long-time fans, glued to each word till we reach the finale: quality of writing, exceptional storyline, knowledge of regions, custom and languages and outstanding characters.

After gazillions of books, I am not tired reading Ty Patterson’s thrillers: keep the good work coming and thank you for the hours of enjoyment you have given me through the years.

"A Gentleman in Moscow", by Amor Towles

Published in 2016

Overview:

Moscow

Count Alexander Rostov is sentenced to house arrest in the luxurious Metropol Hotel in Moscow after the Bolshevik Revolution. The novel spans several decades, exploring his life within the confines of the hotel as he navigates personal relationships and the changing political landscape outside. (Kirkus)

My views:

Frankly I almost gave up reading this novel although in hindsight I am glad I didn’t, so my advice do not give up at one point it will intrigue you and keep you captive till the very end. I was within a few chapters and from then on, I had a hard time putting it down.

The story combines historical fiction with a thoughtful exploration of life and purpose amidst adversity. This unique plot makes this novel stands out but the style is what pushes it to be above average.

I like how the author sets beautifully up the scenes and history of Russia and fluidly inserts it into his plot and to boot make an history lesson interesting.

From the get-go I love Count Alexander, he jumps right out of the story with his vivid actions and strong personality, he really comes to life. I loved following him through the years it felt so real. Although I wouldn’t want to live through what he did.

This is a great read

"The Navigator's Daughter", by Nancy Cole Silverman

Kat Lawson Mystery #1

In a few words:

The year is 1996

Kat Lawson’s father receives a mysterious letter informing the former WW2 navigator/bombardier that his downed B-24 has been found and asking to come to Hungary, Kat suspects this is all part of some senior rip-off scam. But her father insists she represent him not only take photographs of the plane but to find the mother and son who risked their lives to rescue him and his crew by hiding them in a cave. The trip will change her life for ever…..

My thoughts in a few words:

This story is base on the life of Silverman’s father and with a lot of creativity the author has penned and excellent story to captivate us.

Reading “The Navigator’s Daughter” was a pleasant experience, my first by this author but it won’t me the last. From the start we are in a rollercoaster ride while Kate uncovers bit by bit what happened years ago. It is a slow but careful read that will grab anyone in its suspense and keep all riveted till the end. The narration brings us back in time during the war while Kate visits cities, towns, castles and takes photographs always keeping in mind finding Katerina and Adolph, the caring family that saved her father. This is by far not a boring story mystery await Kat also a bit of romance to lighten her life. But she never thought getting caught in the middle of an international art theft ring…..Doesn’t this pique your interest. Give this book a go you will not be disappointed.

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

"Heartless Highway", by Melinda Woodhall

 

A Bailey Flynn FBI Mystery book # 9

The story in a few words:

When the body of a beautiful young woman is discovered near a busy highway it didn’t take long for Special Agent Bailey Flynn to find evidence linking the murder to the East Coast Highway Killer recently apprehended. She is suspecting the FBI task force may have the wrong man in custody ….she sets out to find the answer.

My thoughts:

Melinda Woodhall never fails to entertain, her latest is no exception. Once started I was so into this suspenseful story I lost track of time, so eager to see what Baily would come up with. For sure the task had pinned the murders on the wrong man but Baily did her all to find who really had no regards for a human life and sniff him out. The original investigators stuck to their outcome not way would they bend leaving Bailey with an immense challenge. I appreciated how the author excelled in throwing one red herring after the other and spinning a tale that derailed all expectations. Well done.

This gripping and emotional charge mystery is a good addition to the series. I am amazed how authors can come up with a fresh story with each installment without making them too formulaic. This is not only police procedural-oriented story it also gives us a great amount of personal and family saga. I enjoy this immensely.

There are a lot of characters to keep track of, many are recurring ones we came to know well through this series and a couple added to the mix for us to get to know or forget…. Of course, Melinda Woodhall style is clear and active with no sex scene and foul language and provides us with a thrilling read to enjoy.

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

"Phoenix Rising" by Michael Reit

1 September 1939

This installment chronicles the lives of four people as Hitler’s armies pushes across the Polish border.

Felix Wolff, a Jewish refugee thought he found save heaven in England but soon was arrested and thrown into an internment camp. To clear is name he joins the fight against Hitler.

Sicherheitsdienst agent Karl Vogt is sent to control the growing Jewish population within the Reich. His actions were the groundwork for Poland’s Jewish annihilation and the horrors that came with it.

Adela Beran, in occupied Czechoslovakia risks everything to pass secrets from a weapons factory to the Czech resistance and is asked to help assassinate Heinrich Himmler at Berlin….

In a central role we have Albert Göring using his famous name and position to help the resistance in the Protectorate to sabotage production and hamper the Nazi.

This is a recreation what may have happened during the war.

My thoughts:

This is a powerful story of courage, survival and resistance. It is told in vivid and grim details. You can feel in the author’s words how Karl is an impassioned and cold -hearted individual with only task is to eliminate the Jewish population. While Felix, faces one horror after the other and gives his all to the war effort. Mr. Reit gives him sensibility and a strong will to succeed. With the help of Albert Göring, the factory manager and the brother of the infamous henchmen Hermann Goring, Adela shows how a courageous individual she is and behind the words you feel as apprehensive as her.

A mention: Albert Göring used his famous name to save hundreds from Nazi persecution….not all German were cruel, although what he did put a target on his back.

The story is active and very captivating…even for those who may have read more then their share of war stories it is an excellent read. ..

Well said and well done.

My thanks to the Book Whisperer and Netgalley for this ARC

"The Quiet Mother", by Arnaldur Indridason

Detective Konrad, #3

This mystery is a gripping noir novel that follows retired detective Konrad as he seeks redemption after failing to help Valborg, a woman who was later found murdered. The investigation draws him into a web of lies and betrayals. The story is about the heavy toll of keeping secrets.

The slow pace facilitates the chance to get to know the characters, how they think and react even if their names are hard to pronounce, try to remember them they often pop up in this police procedural saga.

Following Konrad, the tension gradually rises and I soon found myself deep into a difficult story to follow and even harder to stay with. Although, I like how Konrad ferrets out leads and information into Valborg’s past, each revelation pointing to a hidden life that connected her death to a decade old murder and eventually having Konrad solving the murder. It was an intense read.

No doubts about it, the story is a slow burn and jumps timeline quite often, so again be present. It a bit complicated and puzzling at time but it does come together and it all make sense by the end, if you stay with it.

If you like puzzles, intriguing narrative and baffling style you will surely be contented.

I love this author I have him on my watch list but admit that “The Quiet Mother” was not my favourite books by him.

Thank you, St. Martin’s Press and Netgalley for this ARC

"Possession Point", by Glenn Burwell

Detective Robert Lui book #5

I find this story to have an interesting plot, engaging characters and particularly appealing to me being a Canadian is the setting: the beautiful city of Vancouver and its Okanogan Valley. Robert Lui is the main player, now a private detective/researcher with a flair for finding trouble and solutions is there to entertain us all through the mystery. Robert has recently made a career and a personal change and has his doubts that he made a good move…..

The story in a few words:

When a string of construction accidents plague Vancouver where deaths have occurred, Robert hired to find out what is the cause and who is really behind the tragedies, heads out to Surrey to find out why young men who have recently immigrated from Hong Kong have become victims and what was behind the insurance co. aggressiveness.

Further thoughts:

I love this story even if I missed the previous saga and all its recurring characters in no way, did I feel lost. The author did a fine job situating us and introducing his players, I would say in whole smooth sailing. It is also vividly said to kept us engaged from start to finish.

Well done

I received this book from the first reviewer program for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"The Sea Captain's Wife", by Tilar J. Mazzeo

A true story of mutiny, love and adventure

“The Sea Captain’s Wife”, is the story of Mary Ann Patten and what she accomplished in the short time she lived in the 1800. She was only 19 on Sept. 5 1856 when her husband was truck down by disease and ultimately kill him. They were near Cape Horn when she took charge…this is her story.

This is a storytelling said with skills and definitely well researched. Guiding us through the challenges of the sea takes one with ability and knowledge and the author shows every sign she did this and very well. Some say the narrative is crip and engaging and very detailed but leave it to me to have a rough time with all of this. There are far too many details about ships, sailing, ports, rivers, towns…etc. to have kept me fulling tune till the end.

This blend of adventure, romance and historical insight may be well said and exceptional, I never managed to stay with it, my mind wanted to move on and read something else…definitely not my cup of tea.

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

"The Redemption File", by Marc Sinibaldi

This mystery has Detective Brandon Sidney living in the wake of a personal tragedy had to dealt with the murder of his best friend and partner Derek Hill. It seemed evidence showed Derek was on the take. Not believing this to be so, Brandon maneuvers through an underworld of drug dealers, rival cops, weapon smugglers to solve not only Derek’s murder but also to clear his name….

I was on the edge of my seat following Brandon confronting a labyrinth of corruption while dealing with his personal drama. The author deftly balances the crime and personal struggle and by doing so he has expertly penned an emotionally charge thriller for us to enjoy.

The fast paced and tightly woven narrative is vividly said and very engaging. The tension is relentless and never lets go, needless to say I was hooked from the start. I love the gritty plot line and how Brandon tackled the investigation leaving no stone unturned.

Drugs, murders, smugglings, kidnappings, mole in the department, mob boss and it goes on and on….what is not to like when you have a story filled with all kinds of excitements.

Well said and well done

Thank you Lisa from Swell Media for this ARC which I received via Netgalley for my thoughts: this is the way I see it.

"The Second Son", by Simon Gervais

From soldier to sommelier Chase Burke finds himself dealing with the aftermath of his older brother covert action branded a traitor. His attempts to move his life forward was soon derailed when he is caught in crossfire protecting congresswoman who was dining at the restaurant where he worked at. Question by detectives investigating the shooting, when things didn’t quite add up, they soon had doubts about his heroism and Chase soon became a person of interest. He then went on the run to clear his name and get at the bottom of this mystery…. Enjoy

I simply couldn’t put this story down, both authors are at the top of their game writing this type of thriller. It is a pulse-pounding espionage thriller that is writing with realism only someone in the know can do. Even with its breakneck intelligent pacing it still offers a deeply human core and insights into loyalty. This book is well worth passing time with. The story is well balanced with high- octane moments and quieter ones.

Chase Burke is a wonderful protagonist well worth rooting for: intelligent driven and somewhat flawed and by far not superhuman, he has bad moments. I loved how he partners with a street-smart NYPD detective to uncover the truth before the shadowy network of mercenaries silence them both.

In whole, this story is a nice blend of action, emotion and family drama. I loved every moment I spent time reading it.

Special thanks to Thomas & Mercer for this ARC which I received via Netgalley

"The Quiet War", by Michael J. Lalonde

Book#1

Drawing from his service in the Canadian Armed Force and years as a military intelligence officer, the author has penned a political thriller in a narrative that is gripping of operations, espionage and geopolitical tension. This debut novel places Canada at the centre of a global conflict along with its allies.

Sergeant Sebastien Ray leads JTF2’s (Joint Task Force) Alpha team on a rescue mission: free the hostages and eliminate their captors. The enemy is no ordinary zealot; he is the architect of upheaval intent to changing the entire world. The story begins with a rescue that spirals out of control…..

First, a note from the author:

“Most Canadians have never heard of them, but when a Canadian veteran and a British intelligence officer vanish in Belize, it’s JTF2 that answers the call.” This first installment recreates a version of the mission.

In “The Quiet War”, Canada may be the first target but is not the last. U.K. USA and beyond will be subjects of their own war…I simply can’t wait to see how far- reaching the tentacle of war can be.

With steady pacing and grounded heroes this thriller feels too real IMO and stands apart other geopolitical stories by showing what Canada can do when it is force to act. The narrative is active and passionate, a cinematic glimpse into the high-stake world of a quiet war: it may be drugs, trafficking, abductions even murders whatever the prime target is, hopefully someone higher up the chain of command will be there to take the right decisions.

This first installment challenges assumption about Canadian identity, strength and sovereignty…..so real in today’s world.

This is an excellent read that will have you flipping pages at the speed of light. Interesting and captivating to no end….I simply loved it.

Well-said and well-done.

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

"Illusion of Truth", by James L` Étoile

Detective Emily Hunter Mystery book # 3

This author is giving us a police story that is much more then an exciting police procedural mystery. It is filled with complications, revelations and setbacks. So many twists and turns it is very hard to figure what the next move will be…they keep on coming and soon another one and after that another one. Don’t miss out, see for yourself. This mystery is one of the best one I read this year.

The story and my thoughts in a few words:

A series of explosions rocks Sacramento, Det Emily Hunter is particularly affected when her love interest Sgt. Brian Conner was badly hurt in an explosion while responding to a false call. The bomber has only started and subsequent attacks were done on other colleagues. As the investigation moves on at a fast pace, it implicates a councilman, a vocal opponent of the police. It doesn’t stay there, one move leads to another, the swat team is implicated while further attempts are made on the lives of cops suggesting a strong desire for revenge….but why and who is behind all of thing carnage.

The tension is at a high level all through no time to breath, I was so involved with what was going on I had a hard time putting this very exciting story aside, the author maintains nerve-jangling tension throughout and does an excellent job at capturing the attention and keeping us captive.

This latest is an absolutely relentless thriller, a crisp and fast-paced police procedural played out by characters that have emotional depth and show perseverance.

This another top-notch hit penned by James

This book was made available for a sort time at Oceanview Publishing, I couldn’t resists it, I knew I was in for a treat.

"Near Death", by Glenn Cooper

This story is definitely not be for everyone but I loved it didn’t take long before it grabbed me and I had a hard time putting it down, it may also meet your fancy, who knows. “Near Death” is not my usual read, this one is rather creepy and so is one of the main characters. This genre is totally unusual: it includes crime, drugs, death, near death and science. Some gave this book an “R” rating for its violence and mature language. It didn’t turn me off one bit…. Not that bad IMO.

Set in Boston, the story revolves around FBI Special Agent Cyrus O’Malley and Dr. Alex Weller a neuroscientist at Harvard.

After being involved in an accident, Weller nearly killed has a near death experience and spends the rest of his life investigating the brain during the final moment preceding death and became so obsessed that he needed to obtain the chemical from a dying human…. he concocted a drug called “Bliss….and discretely shared his drug to close friends…it soon became a hot commodity on the streets.

When multiple bodies show up with a small hole drilled in their skull, then the FBI came into the picture and Cyrus O’Malley took the lead….

What a story, a plot with an unusual mix of mystery and an unbelievable concept of afterlife. The pressure from family and the day-to-day responsibilities all this said in a gripping narrative. The fast-paced nature and the very suspenseful plot made it hard not to be invested in a story that is both exciting and thought-provoking. As for the characters both are well-developed and complex and the care given to them added depth to this thriller. BTW, I love the final twist…it made my day.

Well-said and well done.

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