Archive for the ‘reviews’ Category

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This is my own version of a weekly book haul and all things new on fuonlyknew.

I’m also linking up with The Sunday Post hosted by Kimberly @Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Sunday Post

Some chit chat.

I know I’ve mentioned how routine and calm the last few backs have been. That changed this week. You may have noticed I’ve not been visiting as much. I got pink eye! If you’ve ever had it, you know how it goes. I couldn’t look at anything for long. The computer was the worst. I wore sunglasses and only stayed on for short periods of time. Light was agony to my tender red eyes. That blogging ahead sure came in handy! I’m on the mend now and can actually open my eyes and did get some reading in finally. A couple more days and I’ll be good as new and back to visiting all of you.

Last week I shared this picture of one of my segas starting to bud.

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Here it is now. You can see that they are starting to open.

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And the banana trees are thriving! Here’s the picture from last week.

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And one week later. That long stalk in the middle is actually almost five feet tall and will open into a huge leaf.

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I still haven’t got by my local nursery to find out what this one is. It’s so intriguing and lovely. Remember this picture from last week? Just one flower starting to bloom and lots of stalks.

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I can’t believe how fast these grow. I went from one to this many in a week!

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You can see the tall stalks peeking up all around the blooms. Those are the corn stalk like leaves that will grow really tall.

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I mentioned before about these reminding me of pink pineapples. If you look closely below the top bloom, you’ll see these green and yellow rings below it. Those will eventually turn into more pink blooms, stacking on top of each other.

That’s all folks.

Have a fabulous  Sunday!

*****

My new books this week.

Some eBooks I grabbed.

Satomi by [Thomas, G. E. M.]  The Hill - Ben's Story (Book One).: A Paranormal Murder Mystery Thriller. (Book One) by [Stafford, Andrew M]  The Hill - Carla's Story (Book Two): A Paranormal Murder Mystery Thriller. (Book Two) by [Stafford, Andrew M]

Got these audibles in the mail! I read the physical book, Northwoods, and thought listening to the series would be fun.

   

*****

And here are some FREEBIES for ya.

Click on the covers to get your copies. Remember to make sure they’re still free before you hit that buy button.

Resort to Homicide: A Merrifield Mystery Novella (Merrifield Mysteries Book 1) by [Chianti, Christine]  One Summer: ...at Charlie's Diner (The Baker Girl Book 1) by [Forbes, Mary Jane]  Murder Uncorked (A Wine Lover's Mystery Book 1) by [Scott, Michele]

Game of Bones (GoB): A Hattie Jenkins & The Infiniti Short Story by [Goodfellow, Pearl]  Foreclosed: A Mitzy Neuhaus Mystery by [Hilton, Traci Tyne]  Murder by Nightmare by [Green, Jennette]

City of Gold (Matthew Connor Adventure Series Book 1) by [Arnold, Carolyn]  The Hill - Ben's Story (Book One).: A Paranormal Murder Mystery Thriller. (Book One) by [Stafford, Andrew M]  CRISPY CRITTERS: An Intense Mystery Suspense Vigilante Thriller With a Twist Ending by [Cage, Theo]

*****

This weeks reviews. Click on the covers to view them.

37904734  ICE by Lauren Carr

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Other posts on my blog this week.

The Soldier’s Homecoming ~ Grand Finale Tour and Giveaway

The Secret Of The Lost Pharaoh by Carolyn Arnold ~ Release Day Review

Princess Nevaeh by Paulette Harper ~ Tour and Giveaway

Ice ~ A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery by Lauren Carr ~ Review and Giveaway

Chicken Culprit by Vikki Walton ~ Cozy Mystery Review and Giveaway

Saturday Screams #52 ~ They Feed

*****

Leave your link and I’ll come visit you.

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Welcome to my Saturday Screams where I share books that, well, make you scream!

Today’s book is creepylicious!

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They Feed

by Jason Parent

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Genre:  Horror

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My Review

I’m a pushover for books like this. Give me a bunch of people wandering around in a park in the dark with something hunting them and I’m a happy camper. Jason doesn’t let me down.

As each group encounters something in the night, it’s a mad dash to find safety. They all wind up in the same place, a falling down shack in the middle of the park. What’s outside wants in. But those inside want out. Most of them aren’t nice people and they all have a reason to want to harm each other. The group dynamics are a big part of the story and I eat that stuff up.

As for the things outside, the author dreamed up some nasty ones for ya. They’re relentless when the attack begins. There’s lots of running and screaming, and one by one, the character’s fall like dominoes. Don’t worry. You won’t mind when some of them bite the dust. The weren’t very likable anyway.

And Jason added some twisted surprises that caught me off guard and sure did contribute to the suspense.

If you like creature feature horror, you might want to give this one a go. It reads fast and definitely keeps you entertained. The title lives up to it’s name.

Star Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-Mas

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Synopsis

The night uncovers all we wish not to see.

A troubled man enters a dusky park before sunset. A young woman follows, hidden in shadow. Both have returned to the park to take back something the past has stolen from them, to make right six long years of suffering, and to find justice or perhaps redemption—or maybe they’ll settle for some old-fashioned revenge.

But something evil is alive and awake in those woods, creatures that care nothing for human motivations. They’re driven by their own insatiable need: a ravenous, bottomless hunger.

The campgrounds are full tonight, and the creatures are starving. Before the night is over, they will feed.

An unrelenting tale of terror from Jason Parent, acclaimed author of People of the Sun and What Hides Within.

Amazon / B&N

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

You can find a list of my reviews HERE.

For a list of free eBooks go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

 

Chicken Culprit

A Backyard Farming Mystery Series

by Vikki Walton

 

Chicken Culprit: Backyard Farming Mystery Series
Cozy Mystery
1st in Series
Setting – Colorado
Morewellson, LTD
Print Length: 251 pages
Digital ASIN: B079SS1C4S

My Review

There are many things I enjoy about cozies. I like meeting all of the quirky characters. The stories are usually set in small towns. I live in one and can relate. And the mysteries, while mostly murders, aren’t gruesome.

Anne Freemont hasn’t even had time to settle into the old Victorian she just purchased before she’s tangled up in the murder of her neighbor. While not a suspect herself, a young woman she’s become friends with is the main suspect and begs her to help clear her name. Having no idea how to go about it, the town rallies and they all put on their sleuthing caps.

I easily connected with Anne. Moving from a bustling city to a small town takes getting used to. Everyone knows each other’s business and don’t hesitate to butt into hers. When her new friend, Kandi, is arrested for murder and asks her for help, I found it a fresh angle that she has no idea where to start. Most cozies have the character diving in enthusiastically, having some ideas on how to go about it. Anne has none. Luckily, she has a secret that helps her.

The friendship between Anne and Kandi is a fun one. Years separate them but they have a lot of common interests. Kandi’s use of the work like in every other sentence drives Anne nuts but they soon find it a source of amusement.

The small town of Carolan Springs is filled with a slew of interesting characters. How they welcomed Anne into their midst was comical and heart warming. Anne recognizes that being a newcomer might help her in her investigation as she might notices things that the residents, being so familiar with each other, might not. A fresh set of eyes and ears you might say.

The mystery is a tough one. I usually spot a few bread crumbs, but didn’t catch one this time. When the author finally reveals what happened, I was caught completely by surprise. Never saw it coming.

And I really liked the ending. Some might think it was sappy, but I thought it was precious.

Star Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-MasStar Yellow Christmas Star Christmas X-Mas

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Synopsis

Finally healing after her heart-breaking divorce, Anne Freemont is ready to put the painful past behind her.

Discovering an old Victorian for sale in the small mountain town of Carolan Springs may be just what she needs. The beauty of Colorado beckons, so Anne heads west to start her new life.

Yet, before Anne’s completely settled in, her neighbor is found dead in his compost pile. What’s worse is that Anne’s quirky young neighbor, Kandi Jenkins, could be the killer. When Kandi begs for her help, Anne feels she has no choice but to help the young woman.

However, she finds herself quickly at odds with the local sheriff. And while she uncovers more of the community’s secrets, she’s also exploring her awakening feelings for Sam Powers, the town’s deputy coroner.

Once Anne starts looking at who could be the real killer, the suspect list keeps getting longer and longer. It seems that Carolan Springs is a place of many secrets. But who would want to murder Ralph and who’s willing to kill again to keep their secret?

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About Author Vikki Walton

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Vikki Walton is a suburban homesteader aka the Havensteader. She has chickens, gardens, and bees and is a certified permaculture designer. She’s also the author of nonfiction books. She loves to travel, is a global house and pet sitter and when not out in the garden or hiking in beautiful Colorado, is plotting her next mystery.

Author Links:

Website / Author on Facebook / Facebook

Purchase Link : Amazon

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Follow The Tour

April 16 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW

April 16 – Brooke Blogs – SPOTLIGHT

April 16 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT WITH RECIPE

April 17 – Teresa Trent Author Blog – REVIEW

April 17 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW

April 17 – The Self-Rescue Princess – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

April 17 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too! – SPOTLIGHT

April 18 – The Power of Words – REVIEW

April 18 – Laura’s Interests – REVIEW

April 18 – Books Direct – GUEST POST

April 19 – I Wish I Lived in a Library – REVIEW

April 19 – MJB Reviewers – REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW

April 19 – Jane Reads – REVIEW

April 19 – T’s Stuff – SPOTLIGHT

April 20 – That’s What She’s Reading – REVIEW

April 20 – FUONLYKNEW – REVIEW

April 20 – Varietats – REVIEW

April 21 – Melina’s Book Blog – REVIEW

April 21 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR INTERVIEW

April 21 – fundinmental – REVIEW

April 22 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW

April 22 – A Chick Who Reads – REVIEW

April 22 – Island Confidential – CHARACTER GUEST POST

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

I can’t ever pass up one of Lauren’s books and this is the first in a brand new series!

Check out Ice. Watch the book trailer.

Enjoy my review.

And don’t forget to enter the awesome giveaway!

Ice

Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries #1

by Lauren Carr

ICE by Lauren Carr
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Category:  Adult fiction, 380 pages
Genre:  Mystery, Crime Fiction, Police Procedural, Cozy
Publisher:  Acorn Book Services
Release date:  February 26, 2018
Tour dates:  April 2 to 30, 2018
Content Rating:  PG (It’s a murder mystery and there is mild violence. Very mild swearing no F-bombs. No on-stage sex scenes.)

My Review

I started reading this at night and finally had to set it aside when my eyes got blurry. I woke up n the dark, around 5:46 A.M. and the booked popped right into my head. So, I turned on the light and started back up with it, devouring it in a couple of hours.

  I’ve read other books by Lauren and shared reviews saying how much I loved her mysteries and her characters, both human and other. This was a brand new cast of characters and I had such a great time getting to know them.

Chris retired from the FBI. A man in his mid forties, he moved home to his mother’s farm to raise his three daughters after his wife was killed in a terrorist attack overseas. It works well for all of them.

The opening scene is a bit sad as Chris is spreading the ashes of his beloved german shepherd companion. Kind of bittersweet, but it doesn’t stay that way for long because a new dog enters the life of the family. Sterling is a two year old german shepherd who was recently retired from the police force after he was injured and his handler and fellow officer was killed. I had a feeling these two would help each other heal. What I didn’t expect was how Sterling would steal my heart. I confess he was the character I wanted most to read about. Lauren makes the non human character’s as much a part of her stories as their human counterparts. Some of Sterling’s quirks are hilarious. The scene at the casino was so fun. As was his penchant for country music. And what can I say, I’m a dog lover.

On to the mystery, or I should say mysteries, as there are several to untangle. From a couple of cold cases to recent murders, Chris is dragged back into law enforcement as a consultant and things get hairy. Lauren can create such great plots. You really have no clue who did what until right at the end. I did catch one bread crumb that turned out to be right. The rest, I couldn’t figure out the culprits til they were caught. One character I had hopes for didn’t go the way I wanted. Shows how the author can deliver such genuine characters, take you down so many false trails, and serve up the culprits in ways that keep you guessing.

A big bonus that Lauren does is supply a cast of characters at the beginning of the book. She details each one and also puts them in the order they appear in the story. Even the non human ones. It helps when you can’t quite remember who someone is. But even with so many characters, you easily become familiar with them and nothing slows down the reading.

I couldn’t find one thing to fault with Ice. It kept me riveted. I connected with and loved so many of the characters. Cracked up more times that I could count. Enjoyed the brushes with romance. And was very satisfied with how it was all wrapped up.

An exciting, superb new series and I can’t wait for more.

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Synopsis

The clues for a close-to-the-heart missing person’s case heat up when Chris Matheson starts chipping away at the ice on the cold case.

When Sandy Lipton and her unborn child disappear, the court of public opinion finds young Chris Matheson guilty. Decades later, the retired FBI agent returns home to discover that the cloud of suspicion cast over him and his family has never lifted. With the help of a team of fellow retired law enforcement officers, each a specialist in their own field of investigation, Chris Matheson starts chipping away at the ice on this cold case to uncover what had happened to Sandy and her baby and the clues are getting hot!

Buy The Book: Amazon

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Author Lauren Carr

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Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!Now, Lauren has added one more hit series to her list with the Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries. Set in the quaint West Virginia town of Harpers Ferry, Ice introduces Chris Matheson, a retired FBI agent, who joins forces with other law enforcement retirees to heat up those cold cases that keep them up at night.

Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, crime fiction, police procedurals, romance, and humor.

​Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.

Connect with the author:  Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~  Instagram

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Follow The Tour

April 2 – Working Mommy Journal – review / giveaway
April 2 – Live To Read ~ Krystal – review / guest post / giveaway
April 2 – XoXo Book Blog – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
April 3 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – review / guest post / giveaway
April 3 – Laurie’s Thoughts and Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
April 4 – Paulette’s Papers – book spotlight / giveaway
April 4 – Elizabeth McKenna Romance Author – book spotlight
April 5 – The World As I See It – review / giveaway
April 5 – Writers and Authors – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
April 6 – Olio by Marilyn – review / author interview / giveaway
April 6 – Books And Tea – review / guest post
April 9 – Blooming with Books – review / giveaway
April 10 – 411 on Books, Authors, and Publishing News – bk spotlight / int / giveaway
April 10 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! – review / giveaway
April 11 – Books are love – review / author interview
April 12 – Library of Clean Reads – review / giveaway
April 12 – Nighttime Reading Center – review / giveaway
April 13 – My Reading Journeys – review / author interview / giveaway
April 17 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – review
April 17 – Lovely Loveday – review
April 18 – StoreyBook Reviews – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
April 19 – FUONLYKNEW – review / giveaway
April 20 – Mystery Suspense Reviews – book spotlight
April 20 – fundinmental – review / author interview / giveaway
April 23 – Two Points of Interest – review
April 24 – Svetlana’s Reads and Views – review
April 25 – Sefina Hawke’s Books – review
April 26 – The Book Drealms – review / giveaway
April 27 – Pause for Tales – review / guest post
April 27 – LadyJ’s Bookish Nook – review / giveaway
April 30 – Jessica Cassidy – review / author interview / giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE

Can Matthew Connor Save the World?

 Praise for City of Gold, a Matthew Connor Adventure:

“A nonstop, pulse-pounding ride.”
–I Read What You Write!

“A must-read for those who love mystery, history, [and] thrilling story lines,
with a touch of Indiana Jones/Ben Gates feel!”
–Lynchburg Mama

“Carolyn Arnold has restored my faith in the archaeology/mystery genre with
her Matthew Connor Adventure series.”
–Nicki’s Nook

International bestselling author Carolyn Arnold returns to the gripping adventures of archeologist Matthew Connor in The Secret of the Lost Pharaoh as he searches for a mysterious treasure from an ancient Egyptian pharaoh that could destroy the modern world.

Matthew Connor has made a career out of discovering forgotten legends, but one elusive myth has captivated his curiosity for years: the Emerald Tablets. It’s said that the Tablets contain the knowledge of the universe and can grant humans the power to traverse Heaven and Earth, bestowing whoever possesses them with great wealth and wisdom. But should the Tablets ever fall into evil hands, they could cause complete global destruction.

When a former colleague of Matthew’s unearths ancient hieroglyphics promising the route to the Emerald Tablets within a pharaoh’s tomb, he leaps at the opportunity to seek out the artifacts. With his two most trusted friends and associates by his side, Matthew heads to Egypt’s remote Western Desert to begin his quest.

But they soon learn that they are not the only ones looking for the Tablets, and when it comes to hunting legends, no one can be trusted.  Now, what started out as an exciting journey has become a dangerous race to protect the fate of the world.

In an electrifying new take on the adventures of an archaeologist, The Secret of the Lost Pharaoh is a thrill ride that digs into the depths of human nature when one is tempted by power.

The Secret of the Lost Pharaoh is now available in e-book, paperback, and hardcover!
Amazon.com | Barnes & Noble | Apple iBooks | Kobo | Google Play | Amazon Universal

For more retailer links visit: CarolynArnold.net/The-Secret-of-the-Lost-Pharaoh.

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37904734

Genre: Mystery / Action / Adventure

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My Review

I dig books about archaeology. It’s been a dream of mine to visit some of the ancient cities and pyramids that have been uncovered, and I couldn’t wait to join these character’s in their adventure.

The story begins with Alex, an Egyptologist, who discovers a secret in the sand that could be the end of mankind if it falls into the wrong hands..  Mathew Connor instantly comes to mind when she realizes she needs people she can trust to help her uncover and protect it. They have worked together before and she feels she can trust him. Mathew is excited to join her and brings with him two trusted friends, Cal and Robyn, who’ve also been on expeditions with him before. The excitement of the adventure is dimmed by the reality of what they might uncover and what it might mean for mankind. But they can’t help but be thrilled as tunnels are discovered, tombs are opened, and things long lost are now found. History will be changed.

Not having read the first book, City Of Gold, I still didn’t have any trouble reading this, the second book in the Mathew Connor series. The author filled me in at appropriate points about past connections and events without slowing down my reading enjoyment. But I’d still recommend reading the previous book first. You don’t want to miss the fun of discovering these characters and seeing how they came to be where they are now.

I had a good feeling about this book going in. What I didn’t expect was the nail biting suspense. If it’s not tunnels collapsing, it’s flooded chambers and lethal cobras. Not to mention others who might want they uncover. I could picture this on the big screen. The darkness under the desert. The chill of opening hidden chambers. Being trapped with snakes all around you. No idea if help will come in time. Yep, it would be a great movie.

Each character tells their story but you won’t get confused. I quickly came to know them and easily recognized who was narrating. Cal, especially. He’s a wise cracker and made me chuckle in between the dangerous events. And the author did it just right as it helped me to understand each character’s motivations and reactions. Led to a much deeper read for me.

Mysteries, action, adventure, danger, and genuine character’s await you inside this well researched and fun book. You’ll quickly become immersed in it and reach the end feeling satisfied yet wanting more.

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Book Discription:

Mystery lovers will need to hold on to their hats for this follow-up to City of Gold, which reviewers described as “a fast-paced action adventure” that is “akin to an Indiana Jones story set in modern times.” Now, the second in the series promises to bring much of the same excitement! Join archaeologist and adventurer Matthew Connor and his friends as they go after the Emerald Tablets to save the world in The Secret of the Lost Pharaoh.

In Egypt’s Western Desert lies the tomb of an unnamed pharaoh that hides a secret so powerful, it could destroy the world as we know it.

Archaeologist and adventurer Matthew Connor has made a career of finding legends the world has all but forgotten. Though there’s one in particular that has fascinated him for years—the Emerald Tablets. Myth says that they possess the knowledge of the universe, allowing humankind to traverse Heaven and Earth, and have the power to bestow wealth and wisdom upon whoever possesses them. But if they fall into evil hands, it could cause a global disaster.

So when a former colleague stumbles across an ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic map that promises to lead to a pharaoh’s tomb and the Emerald Tablets, there’s no way he’s turning down her invitation to join the dig. He only has one stipulation: his best friends Robyn Garcia and Cal Myers come with him.

The road ahead isn’t going to be an easy one, and their shared dream of recovering the Emerald Tablets is being crushed at every turn. And just when they think it’s all over, they learn there are a few clues they have overlooked. But they’re no longer the only ones searching for the Tablets. Now, the fate of the world hangs in the balance, and soon they’ll find out that when it comes to hunting legends, they can’t trust anyone.

About the Matthew Connor Adventure series:

Action-adventure books for the mystery lover. Does treasure hunting excite you? What about the thought of traveling the globe and exploring remote regions to uncover legends that the world has all but forgotten? If so, strap yourself in for an adventure with modern-day archaeologist Matthew Connor and his two closest friends. Indiana Jones meets the twenty-first century.

This is the perfect book series for fans of Indiana JonesLara CroftNational Treasure, and The Relic Hunter.

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Other Books in the Series:

City of Gold

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About Author Carolyn Arnold

Carolyn Arnold is an international bestselling and award-winning author, as well as a speaker, teacher, and inspirational mentor. She has four continuing fiction series and has written nearly thirty books. Both her female detective and FBI profiler series have been praised by those in law enforcement as being accurate and entertaining, leading her to adopt the trademark, POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT™.

Connect with CAROLYN ARNOLD Online:
Website | Twitter | Facebook

 And don’t forget to sign up for her newsletter for up-to-date information on release and special offers at CarolynArnold.net/Newsletters.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

bookshelves photo: Bookshelf bookshelves.jpg

This is my own version of a weekly book haul and all things new on fuonlyknew.

I’m also linking up with The Sunday Post hosted by Kimberly @Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Sunday Post

Some chit chat.

It was a busy week at work. I got lucky and Friday was a free day off so I’m enjoying the long weekend. Spent Friday doing yard work as Saturday is supposed to be stormy. Sunday, I’m outside working on the pool. Time to get it ready for some swimming.

I read some good books this week. And I’m all wrapped up in The Terror, that new series on television. Is anyone watching it? What do you think so far? I could swear it’s based on a book I started but never finished. Now to find it in my stacks and see if I’m right. It’s a super huge paperback.

I figured I’d give Flora a break. She’s tired of having to grow for the camera. LOL Really though, it was raining and super windy so I couldn’t get a good new pic of her. Will share next week. For now, here’s my partner in crime, Quigley.

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He’s all snuggled up between a stack of pillows, trying to act like I’m not taking his picture, but I see the ear pulled back and the white of his eye. LOL

And last week I shared about my Sega Palm’s starting to grow.

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This is actually one of my smaller segas and the little spikes sure have grown. They are so soft right now.

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And the banana trees are thriving!

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Also, this plant comes back every year. I don’t know the name of it. Came with the house. They get this gorgeous flower and then tall leaf fronds that look like corn stalks after the bloom fades. As it blooms, it’s one flower on top of the other and kind of looks like a pink coconut. You can see the other stalks peeking out of the ground all around this one.

If anyone knows what this is, I’d love to hear from you!

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That’s all folks.

Have a fabulous  Sunday!

*****

My new books this week.

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39401605  Carnival Of Fear (Creepiest Show On Earth Book 1) by [Norris, A.J., White, Aaron, Clay, Chris P., Roach, D.A., Glaser, Dale W., Lee, Erin, Sonnenberg, Jackie, Jacques, Kristin, Swanson, Luke, Mills, Nykki]

*****

And here are some FREEBIES for ya.

Click on the covers to get your copies. Remember to make sure they’re still free before you hit that buy button.

City of gods - Hellenica by [Maas, Jonathan]  City of gods II: Horsemen by [Maas, Jonathan]  Fear University by [Collett, Meg]

 KILLER (A Jack Rhodes Mystery Book 1) by [Carpenter, Stephen]  How To Survive Your Sisters by [Campbell, Ellie]  Girls In White Dresses: A Detective London McKenna Novel by [Gates, Alex]

 Batter Up (Bachelors of Buttermilk Falls Book 1) by [Neeley, Robyn]  My Fair Lily (The Farthingale Series Book 1) by [Platt, Meara]  Dog Gone (Dev Haskell - Private Investigator Book 12) by [Faricy, Mike]

*****

This weeks reviews. Click on the covers to view them.

34971537 

*****

Other posts on my blog this week.

My Monday Minis #41 ~ The Storm, Trackers #3

Our New World ~ Book Tour and Giveaway

Three Strikes, You’re Dead by Elena Hartwell ~ Review and Giveaway

Snapshots From My Uneventful Life ~ Spotlight and Giveaway

Must get my hands on ….. Beyond A Darkened Shore ~ Release Blitz and Giveaway

Til Death Do Us Party by Vickie Fee ~ Cozy Mystery Spotlight and Giveaway

Whitcomb Springs ~ Free Book and Giveaway Blast

Bacon Pie ~ Release Day Blitz and Giveaway

Saturday Screams #51 ~ It’s all about the BOO plus a really huge shark!

*****

Leave your link and I’ll come visit you.

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Cinema, Theater, Popcorn, 3D Glasses, Filmklappe, Flap

Welcome to my Saturday Screams where I share books and movies that, well, make you scream!

Shark Week will be here in a couple of months and I’m getting tuned up for it. Got something chompin good to share with all of you shark lovers.

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I’ve been reading Steve Alten’s books from the beginning. His Meg and his Loch Ness series were eventually merged and it became insane.

I’m so excited. Been waiting years for the movie to come out and following Steve’s newsletter to keep up to date. August 10th is the release day for the movie and I’ll be there!

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My Review

I don’t even know how many times I’ve read this book and the rest of the series. It’s one of my go to books when I want to just relax and enjoy the story. Plus, I love anything sharks. Who doesn’t.

Jonas Taylor is one the best in deep sea submersible dives. When he’s sent down on a secret dive into the Marianna Trench, he barely makes it back alive. His claims that a Megalodon almost ended his life are met with derision by his peers and he sinks into depression. After years trying to prove he’s right and waking up screaming from freakish nightmares, Joans is compelled to once again brave the deep, and what happens next is worse than any nightmare he’s ever had.

Oh yeah, I loved this book. From the character’s, to the shark, and everything in-between, it was awesome. Steve is a wonderful storyteller and has you believing Megs do still exist. There’s much argument about that, which I won’t go into, but I choose to say, who knows? The ocean is the least explored place on our planet and new species are discovered all the time.

I myself, hope they do but, then I don’t. After reading books and seeing movies about Great White Sharks, I think they’re bad enough. For something that could use a 20 footer as a toothpick to arrive in our waters is truly terrifying.

Dive into MEG. Meet her up close and personal. Once the action starts, it’s a whole lot of gnashing and blood. If your a fan of sharks and horror, you’ll eat this up.

This one is from my bookshelf. My review is voluntarily given.

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Synopsis

On a top-secret dive into the Pacific Ocean’s deepest canyon, Jonas Taylor found himself face-to-face with the largest and most ferocious predator in the history of the animal kingdom. The sole survivor of the mission, Taylor is haunted by what he’s sure he saw but still can’t prove exists – Carcharodon megalodon, the massive mother of the great white shark. The average prehistoric Meg weighs in at twenty tons and could tear apart a Tyrannosaurus rex in seconds. Taylor spends years theorizing, lecturing, and writing about the possibility that Meg still feeds at the deepest levels of the sea. But it takes an old friend in need to get him to return to the water, and a hotshot female submarine pilot to dare him back into a high-tech miniature sub. Diving deeper than he ever has before, Taylor will face terror like he’s never imagined. MEG is about to surface. When she does, nothing and no one is going to be safe, and Jonas must face his greatest fear once again.

Amazon / B&N

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And how about some other horror moves releasing or just released this year.

I’ve seen a couple of these already but there are more I can’t wait to see. Scary good stuff!

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How about you? Seen any of these? What are you looking forward to watching?

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

I’ve enjoyed the previous books in Elena Hartwell’s Eddie Shoes Mystery series and this newest one is just as fun.

Check out the book. Enjoy my review.

And don’t forget to enter the giveaway to win a copy!

Three Strikes, You’re Dead

An Eddie Shoes Mystery

by Elena Hartwell


Three Strikes, You’re Dead (Eddie Shoes Mystery)
Cozy Mystery
3rd in Series
Camel Press (April 1, 2018)
Paperback: 288 pages
ISBN-13: 978-1603817271
Digital 13: 9781603817288

My Review

You can’t help but love Eddie Shoes. She’s a tough gal and a now seasoned private investigator who has to juggle her eccentric mother, Chava, who’s always butting her nose into Eddie’s business, along with a mob connected father that tries to protect his daughter but his connections make being near him a questionable risk.

A relaxing weekend at a resort with her mother becomes a new case, or two, for Eddie when she rescues a man from a forest fire. As the man is dying he asks Eddie to find his missing daughter. With very little to go on, she’ll have to draw on all of her investigative skills to solve both cases.

What I enjoy so much about this series is the characters. Eddie is a tough cookie but also vulnerable.  Her mother, Chava, is a hoot. Another tough cookie but a bit on the zany side. And her father, who she’s just coming to really know, is a bit intimidating but also wants to be a part of Eddie’s life. These three make for some funny character dynamics.

The mystery is convoluted. Not easily solved. And I must have missed some bread crumbs as the final reveal caught me by surprise.

Fans of cozies with colorful character’s will enjoy this series. You could read this without having read the first books. The author drops some bones so you have an idea where everyone stands. But I’d recommend you start at the beginning and fully connect with these characters. You’ll catch up on all the fun that way.

I sure had a rip roaring time with this newest Eddie Shoes mystery. You can count me in for the next one!

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Synopsis

Private investigator Eddie Shoes heads to a resort outside Leavenworth, Washington, for a mother-daughter getaway weekend. Eddie’s mother Chava wants to celebrate her new job at a casino by footing the bill for the two of them, and who is Eddie to say no?

On the first morning, Eddie goes on an easy solo hike, and a few hours later, stumbles upon a makeshift campsite and a gravely injured man. A forest fire breaks out and she struggles to save him before the flames overcome them both. Before succumbing to his injuries, the man hands her a valuable rosary. He tells her his daughter is missing and begs for her help. Is Eddie now working for a dead man?

Barely escaping the fire, Eddie wakes in the hospital to find both her parents have arrived on the scene. Will Eddie’s card-counting mother and mob-connected father help or hinder the investigation? The police search in vain for a body. How will Eddie find the missing girl with only Eddie’s memory of the man’s face and a photo of his daughter to go on?

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About Author Elena Hartwell

CREDIT MARK PERLSTEIN

After twenty years in the theater, Elena Hartwell turned her dramatic skills to fiction. Her first novel, One Dead, Two to Go introduces Eddie Shoes, private eye. Called “the most fun detective since Richard Castle stumbled into the 12th precinct,” by author Peter Clines, I’DTale Magazine stated, “this quirky combination of a mother-daughter reunion turned crime-fighting duo will captivate readers.”

In addition to her work as a novelist, Elena teaches playwriting at Bellevue College and tours the country to lead writing workshops.

When she’s not writing or teaching, her favorite place to be is at the farm with her horses, Jasper and Radar, or at her home, on the middle fork of the Snoqualmie River in North Bend, Washington, with her husband, their dog, Polar, and their trio of cats, Jackson, Coal Train, and Luna, aka, “the other cat upstairs.” Elena holds a B.A. from the University of San Diego, a M.Ed. from the University of Washington, Tacoma, and a Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Blog / Goodreads / Pinterest

Purchase Links

Amazon / B&N

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One lucky winner will receive a print copy of Three Strikes, You’re Dead. Fill out the rafflecopter to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Follow the tour for more fun posts

April 1 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too! – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY

April 1 – Island Confidential – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

April 2 – Babs Book Bistro – CHARACTER GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY

April 3 – Socrates’ Book Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

April 3 – Mysteries with Character – GUEST POST

April 4 – Books Direct – GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY

April 5 – The Pulp and Mystery Shelf – INTERVIEW

April 6 – Readeropolis – SPOTLIGHT

April 6 – Ruff Drafts – GUEST POST

April 7 – A Blue Million Books – CHARACTER INTERVIEW

April 8 – Cozy Up With Kathy – CHARACTER GUEST POST

April 9 – Brooke Blogs – REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST

April 10 – FUONLYKNEW – REVIEW, GIVEAWAY

April 11 – The Ninja Librarian – REVIEW, INTERVIEW

April 12 – Texas Book-aholic – REVIEW

April 12 – StoreyBook Reviews – GUEST POST

April 13 – Maureen’s Musings – REVIEW

April 14 – My Reading Journeys – REVIEW, INTERVIEW

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Welcome to my Monday Minis where I share shorter reviews of books I’ve read.

Today I’m sharing the third book in the great apocalyptic series by Nicholas Sansbury Smith. Let’s  get started.

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The Storm

Trackers #3

by Nicholas Sansbury Smith

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Genre:  Apocalyptic / Post Apocalyptic

My Review

An EMP attack sent the country into turmoil and things only get worse for the survivors.

This series never lets up. The hits keep on coming for our survivors. As we flash back and forth across the country, following each groups footsteps, the danger and suspense increases.

Having read the first two books, I knew I couldn’t count on my some of my beloved characters to make it. That sure added to the intensity as I turned each page with bated breath. It’s only been a month since the attack and everything fell apart so fast.There was no let up in the action. And it all felt so real. Something like this could happen and that makes this extra scary. And it never ceased to amaze me what people would do to each other. The worst case scenario brings out the worst.

I’m thrilled to say this was every bit as intense as the previous books.

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Synopsis

A deadly storm of violence sweeps across the United States in the thrilling third installment of the bestselling Trackers saga.

One month after the North Korean attack, the United States continues to fall into anarchy. In Estes Park, Colorado, Police Chief Marcus Colton and tracker Sam ‘Raven’ Spears work tirelessly to defend their hometown. But after a brutal coordinated attack, they realize it will take much more than roadblocks and a volunteer militia to protect their borders and keep their families safe.

Defense Secretary Charlize Montgomery has been reunited with her son, but his homecoming is short-lived due to the state of the FEMA survival centers around the country. She heads to the one in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her loyal bodyguard, Albert Randall. Outside the camp’s walls, the city has descended into chaos and desperate civilians will do anything to get inside. When Albert stays behind to rescue his sister, he is caught in the middle of a turf war between rival gangs.

In this lawless new world where the most ruthless thrive while innocents suffer, Colton, Raven, and Charlize are faced with their toughest challenges yet. One thing is certain—they won’t be able to save everyone. Not with their humanity still intact.

Amazon / B&N / Audible

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Click on the covers for previous books reviewed.

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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This is my own version of a weekly book haul and all things new on fuonlyknew.

I’m also linking up with The Sunday Post hosted by Kimberly @Caffeinated Book Reviewer.

Sunday Post

Some chit chat.

Not much happening. My life is so routine right now. I work and come home. But summer will be here before you know it and then it’s poolside and good books.

With nothing new to tell you, I figured I’d share more about my plants. If this stuff bores you, just scroll down for other news.

Here’s last weeks picture of Flora.

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She’s doing so well!

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Underneath the larger leaves are a bunch of new tender leaves. I have a feeling Flora is going to be huge this year!

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And I have some new banana trees growing.

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These are already over 3 feet tall!

And I thought I’d start to share about my Sega Palms. This is how one of them looks before new growth begins and a cold winter.

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Here is the center of the palm where the new shoots spring up.

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This one here already has some starting. You can see the short tips poking up.

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As soon as they get taller, I’ll cut off the old leaves. They are very sharp and pointy. Hurt like crazy when they stab you. The new shoots are soft like a feather and take a while to harden.

That’s all folks.

Have a fabulous  Sunday!

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My new books this week.

I bought a few and grabbed a couple freebies. All eBooks this week.

Ten Mad Cows by [Schieren, George]  Abominable by [nayes, alan]  Into The Mist by [Murray, Lee]

CENSUS: What Lurks Beneath by [Cobb, Marshall]  Not Dead Yet (AM13 Outbreak Series Book 4) by [Sands, Samie]  Condition Black by [Barber, Tom]

You would think with spring I’d be switching to some cozies and romances, but nope. I’m a thriller horror gal all year round. LOL

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And here are some FREEBIES for ya.

Click on the covers to get your copies. Remember to make sure they’re still free before you hit that buy button.

Beg, Borrow or Steal by [Tate, Susie]  Killing Me Softly (Previously published as Live and Let Die) by [Sloane, Bianca]  Eat, Pray, Die (An Eat, Pray, Die Humorous Mystery Book 1) by [Field, Chelsea]

Summer Shadows by [Traynor, Killarney]  Murder Takes a Dare (The Marisa Adair Mystery Adventures Book 1) by [Ryker, Jada]  Birdsongs (Benny James Mystery Book 1) by [Deas, Jason]

Alaskan Dawn (Pacific Horizons Book 1) by [Claire, Edie]  Brownies & Betrayal (Sweet Bites Mysteries, Book 1) by [Justesen, Heather]  More Than Pancakes (The Maple Leaf Series Book 1) by [DePetrillo, Christine]

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This weeks reviews. Click on the covers to view them.

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Other posts on my blog this week.

Crust No One by Winnie Archer ~ Book Tour and Giveaway

My Monday Minis #40 ~ The Hunted, Trackers #2

Teaser Tuesday #234 ~ Shadow Canyon

Progeny by Tosca Lee ~ Interview and Giveaway

The Trina Ryan Novels ~ Guest Post and Giveaway

The Kid’s Korner #30 ~ Dog Toys & Squirrel’s Bad Day

A Hole In One by Judy Penz Sheluk ~ Blurb Blitz And Giveaway

Thriller Series ~ Diary Of A Serial Killer ~ Spotlight and Giveaway

The Fix by Robert Downs ~ Review and Giveaway

The Friday 56 #180 ~ The Battle For Darracia

Murder, She Knit ~ Cozy Mystery Tour and Giveaway

Saturday Screams #50 Roll Em!

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Leave your link and I’ll come visit you.

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.