Posts Tagged ‘review’

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Killer Deadline
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A Nikki Bryant Cozy Mystery
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by Lauren Carr
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Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  232 pages
Genre:  Mystery/Cozy Mystery
Publisher:  Acorn Book Services
Release date:   April 23, 2020
Content Rating: G. This is a true cozy mystery. No sex. No on-stage violence. No swearing. Just good clean fun!
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“Lauren Carr’s books are never boring, that’s for sure. They entertain,
give us a good mystery to dig into, keep the reader guessing, give us a
few good laughs and make us eager for the next book. Warning: Lauren
Carr’s series are addictive, so be ready to read more than just one
book!” – Laura Fabiani, Library of Clean Reads
.

Join us for this tour from April 20 to May 22, 2020!

.

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“Here we go! Carr is a master storyteller who always offers a plot full
of twists and turns, a bit of humor to offset the dark, and a unique
cast of characters. In Killer Deadline that
cast includes – handsome Ryan, her first love (who is now her
step-brother); a mysterious social media friend called Nerdy Guy; Elmo, a
super smart dog, a boxer, she rescued who has become asocial media star
and has a penchant for cleaning; a TV station full of suspicious
employees; and more.”This book is a wonderful read to pick up at the end of a long day. It
truly is a “cozy murder mystery.”  I promise, it’ll draw you in right
from page one and keep you turning the pages until you reach the very
last page. I can’t wait for the second book in this series.” – Marilyn R. Wilson, Olio by Marilyn

My Review

I’ve read and loved a bunch of Lauren’s books and was excited to get my hands on this cozy mystery. I know she can bring her characters to life. I know she can sprinkle some fun romance along with those characters. I know she can give the critters in her stories as much of a role as her human ones. And I know she can give me a cast of characters to keep me on my toes and a mystery that keeps me clueless. And now she’s going to do all that with a cozy mystery series!

Nikki returns to her small home town in Pennsylvania to take over the family news station now that her mother is retiring. Her skills as an investigative reporter will come in handy as she steps into her new role. What won’t be so easy is facing the one she let get away, a nemesis with a grudge and the cold case murder of her father many years ago.

Like with most of her books, Lauren doesn’t give you just one mystery to solve, she gives you several. I had an idea who did the first murder but was caught completely by surprise when her father’s killer was revealed. Then there’s nerdyguy, someone Nikki befriended on the internet. I figured out who he was and what he was up to fairly early on and couldn’t wait to see Nikki’s reaction when she finally figured it out too.

And as with her other books, Lauren brings in a nonhuman character that easily challenges the human characters for the spotlight. Elmo, Nikki’s boxer, is famous. Everyone wants their picture taken with him. He does these incredible things. And you don’t even have to ask him. I easily pictured Elmo making the bed and loading the dishwasher. Gotta love a dog that enjoys doing housework.

From first sentence to last, I had a blast with Killer Deadline and I am excited for more in this series.

5 Stars

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Book Description:

Folks in Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, claim that where Nikki Bryant goes,
trouble is not far behind. Her refusal to back down from a challenge has
made Nikki Bryant a top investigative journalist.

When an online friend nudges her to join him in a pact to reconnect with
their first loves, Nikki and her boxer dog Elmo leave the bright lights
of Las Vegas for the charming town of Pine Grove. There, she must face
the biggest challenges in her career and life—the first love she had
left behind and her father’s unsolved murder.

But before she has time to unpack her car, Nikki stumbles upon the dead
body of local news anchor, Ashleigh Addison, her childhood rival. Could
Ashleigh’s death be connected to an explosive news story that she had
teased about airing live? Did that explosive story have anything to do
with the murder of Nikki’s father?

With the clues in her father’s cold case hot again, Nikki intends to
chase down the story of her life until she catches his killer—no matter
what it takes.

Order Your Copy Today!
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Meet the Author:
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Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, Chris Matheson
Cold Case, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty-five titles across  three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!
Killer Deadline marks Lauren’s first venture into mystery’s purely cozy sub-genre with a female protagonist.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.

​A popular speaker, Lauren is also the owner of Acorn Book Service, the umbrella under which falls iRead Book Tours. She lives with her husband and two spoiled rotten German Shepherds on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.

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


 

Enter the Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tour Schedule:
April 20 – Olio by Marilyn – book review / giveaway
April 20 – Working Mommy Journal – book review / giveaway
April 20 – Michelle’s Goodreads – book review
April 21 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
April 21 – The avid reader – book spotlight / giveaway
April 22 – Thoughts in Progress – book spotlight / giveaway
April 22 – Brooke Blogs – book spotlight / giveaway
April 23 – My Reading Journeys – book review / giveaway
April 23 – Christa Reads and Writes – book review / giveaway
April 23 – Sefina Hawke’s Books – book spotlight
April 23 – Books for Books – book spotlight
April 24 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review / giveaway
April 27 –Cassidy’s Bookshelves – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
April 28 – It’s All About the Book – book review / giveaway
April 28 – Down the Rabbit Hole – book review / author interview / giveaway
April 29 – Book Corner News and Reviews – book review / giveaway
April 29 – Laura’s Interests – book review / guest post / giveaway
April 30 – I’m Into Books – book spotlight / giveaway
April 30 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway
May 1 –
May 4 –
May 5 – She Just Loves Books – book review / giveaway
May 6 – A Madison Mom – book review / giveaway
May 7 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway
May 8 – Adventurous Bookworm – book review / giveaway
May 11 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway
May 12 – Bound 4 Escape – book review / giveaway
May 12 – Leels Loves Books – book review / giveaway
May 13 – FUONLYKNEW – book review / giveaway
May 14 – fundinmental – book review / giveaway
May 15 – Splashes of Joy – book review / author interview / giveaway
May 15 – Adventurous Jessy – book review / giveaway
May 18 – Mowgli with a book – book review
May 19 – Pause for Tales – book review / giveaway
May 20 – Peaceful Pastime – book review
May 20 – eBook Addicts – book review
May 21 – Books and Zebras – book spotlight / giveaway
May 22 –  Sahar’s Blog – book review
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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 am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Welcome to My Monday Minis where I share short reviews about books I’ve read.

I finally started The Murderbot Diaries and here is what I thought.

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All Systems Red

The Murderbot Diaries #1

by Martha Wells

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Genre: Science Fiction

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

I’ve been excited to read this series as many people I know enjoyed it and recommended it to me. And now I know why.

A team of scientists, along with their required android, or SecUnit as it’s called, are conducting survey tests on a remote planet. Should be easy. But when another team is massacred, they realize they’re next and they aren’t prepared.

Murderbot is what it calls itself. And when you learn it’s history, the name is apt. It was easy to like Muderbot. It’s got a lot of human qualities, like sarcasm, introspection and wanting to know who it is. I was curious too. It’s not a sexbot, so no sexual organs, I was curious about what face it wore under the armor. Did it look like a man or a woman? I was left wondering and hope future stories reveal that to me. And it’s very human in another way, spending hours watching the future’s version of a Netflix show. I’d binge this series if Netflix offered it. Don’t let this fool you about the SecUnit. It’s not a combat model, but when required, it goes at it’s enemy no hold’s barred, risking injury to inflict the most damage.

What made this read real for me was that it’s always assumed that with the advanced technology that enables us to travel in space, we come to expect it to “look” advanced. For the ships and all the other things that come with it to be like shiny new toys and everything works right. Not so here. It’s the same as always, cheaper is better and cutting corners is always the first choice. Which causes quite a few problems for the crew and for Murderbot.

I had so much fun with All Systems Red and am already reading the next book. The ending here left me so curious. What does the future hold for Muderbot?

4 STARS

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Synopsis

In a corporate-dominated spacefaring future, planetary missions must be approved and supplied by the Company. Exploratory teams are accompanied by Company-supplied security androids, for their own safety.

But in a society where contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder, safety isn’t a primary concern.

On a distant planet, a team of scientists are conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied ‘droid — a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its own governor module, and refers to itself (though never out loud) as “Murderbot.” Scornful of humans, all it really wants is to be left alone long enough to figure out who it is.

But when a neighboring mission goes dark, it’s up to the scientists and their Murderbot to get to the truth.

Amazon

~~~~~

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

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Welcome to My Monday Minis where I share short reviews about books I’ve read.

I couldn’t resist the title and synopsis for this one.

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Conquest

by Robbie Dorman

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Genre: Horror

c8df8-add2bto2bgoodreads2bblack

My Review

This book is chock full of action and some bloody good horror.

Imagine a wildfire threatening your town. It’s approaching fast and it’s time to get out. But, a group of strangers aren’t having any of it, They see the fire as an opportunity to unleash their inner beast. To rend, tear and feed. They’re shapeshifters with long sharp claws and very big teeth.

As with most horror stories, there’s the character’s you want to survive, those that you really hope don’t and the ones doing all the deciding. It all adds fuel to the fire as the flames approach and each has to decide what side they’re on. It sure made for a super fast and wild read.

This would be such fun as a movie and I had a blast. I’ll definitely be watching for more from the author.

4 STARS

~~~~~

Synopsis

WHO WILL LIVE WHEN CONQUEST BURNS?

Tensions are running high in the small mountain town of Conquest, Idaho. Newly elected Sheriff Heather Hill is on one side, toxic and corrupt Mayor JH Bieter on the other, a standoff in a culture war. With a wildfire approaching, battle lines begin to form. As the cold war heats up, Heather and JH are at each other’s throats.

But they have more to worry about than the fire.

The Pack has arrived in Conquest.

A ravenous gang of bestial shapeshifters, they are hungry and eager to show their dominance. Conquest makes a perfect target. Now Heather, JH, and the people of Conquest must fight for survival as blood and ash fill the streets.

Amazon

~~~~~

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

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

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Crossing in Time
Between Two Evils Book 1
by D.L. Orton
Genre: Action-Adventure, Dystopian, Time Travel, Love Story
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My Review

In the beginning…. Isabel and Diego, ill-fated lovers, find each other again. The two lovers are separated once more when a strange artifact crashes in the city, destroying buildings and killing many. Reunited again, they have no idea their love is what will save the world.

I’m not much into time travel, but this book is so much more and I’m rethinking that now. There’s romance, science fiction, and suspense. I easily cast aside reality and lost myself in the story of Isabel and Diego. Their love for each other is powerful and I very much wanted a happy ending for them. But time isn’t set in stone, and their future and that of Mankind’s is uncertain.

Many people believe time travel will become possible. I’m not so sure about that. And not sure we should do so if it is does become possible. This story is about having no choice. A sweeping romance, filled with possibilities, heartache, suspense, and hope.

The chapters are short, keeping the reading pace fast. And I enjoyed the illustrations at the beginning of each one as they connect with the events. Even the seashell in the spelling of the title on the cover has a hidden meaning.

The beginning swiftly pulls you in. The plot deepens and the characters emerge. And as you draw near to the conclusion, you’re gripped in a vise of suspense that brings tears to your eyes, fearing and hoping for what comes last.

5 Stars

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The past isn’t over, it’s an opening. The future isn’t hidden, it’s a trap.
If she ever wants to see him again, she’ll have to take the risk…
Publishers Weekly Starred Review: “Funny, Romantic & Harrowing!”
When offered a one-way trip to the past, Iz sacrifices everything for a chance to change her dystopian future—and see her murdered lover one last time.
After a perilous journey through a black hole, she wakes up on a tropical beach, buck naked and mortally wounded—but twenty years younger! With only hours to live, she must convince an enraptured but skeptical twenty-something guy to fix their future relationship and thereby save the planet (no one is quite sure why.)
But it’s easier said than done, as success means losing him to a brainy, smart-mouthed bombshell (her younger self), and that’s a heartbreaker, save the world or not.
Across the infinite expanse of space and time, love endures…
(Unfortunately, it’s not going to be enough.)
FALL INTO THIS EDGY, action-packed, darkly comedic, dystopian love story, and be prepared to encounter a finicky time machine, a mysterious seashell, and a very clever dog (some sex, some swearing, some violence, but no vampires and absolutely no ditzes.)
Content Warning!
This book contains material that may be disturbing to some, and in movie form, would be rated NC-17 for strong language, nudity, sexual situations, and violence (including attempted sexual assault, abduction, intense danger, miscarriage, confinement, a pandemic, religious fanaticism (Christian), government malevolence, and death).
Reader discretion is advised.
**Get it FREE!! **
Book Trailer
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Lost Time
Between Two Evils Book 2
From the award-winning author D. L. ORTON comes book two in the Between Two Evils Series…
If someone took everything you live for, how far would you go to get it back?
When a faulty time machine deposits Diego at the top of a towering evergreen, he knows he’s in the wrong place—but has no idea he’s also in the wrong time. Naked and shivering in the primeval forest, he attempts to climb down—but slips, whacks his head on a branch, and tumbles into oblivion.
He awakens inside a darkened room, crippled and disheartened, and must come to grips with the realization that he is marooned in a bleak alternate future. In this universe, what remains of the human race is trapped inside a handful of aging biodomes. With his mission failed, his world destroyed, and the one woman he loves dead, he can find no reason to go on living.
Except Lani, the emotionally scarred doctor who must put Diego’s broken body back together, refuses to let him die, and as Diego heals, their relationship becomes… complicated. He struggles to let go of the past but is unable to get Isabel out of his head—or his heart. Just when it seems he may be able to find some measure of happiness in a world teetering on the edge of extinction…
Another note arrives from his past: Isabel is alive—but not for long. Find the time machine, and go home before it’s too late…
~ Hoffer Book Award Grand Prize shortlist
~ Colorado Book Award finalist
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Dead Time
Between Two Evils Book 3
If someone took everything you live for, how far would you go to get it back?
From award-winning author D. L. ORTON comes book three in the Between Two Evils series…
Shannon fights to stay alive inside a rogue biodome and discovers something totally unexpected… Peter. Lani is forced into the role of the reluctant heroine but rediscovers her street-kid mojo and sets out to find everything she’s lost. Diego receives another dirty sock (and a note) from the poorly aimed fireball express: “The window between universes is closing.” If Diego has any hope of getting back to Iz, he must get to the Magic Kingdom and power up the time machine before it’s too late.
What could possibly go wrong?
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DL ORTON, THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR of the BETWEEN TWO EVILS series, lives in the foothills of the Rockies where she and her husband are raising three boys, a golden retriever, two Siberian cats, and an extremely long-lived Triops. ?￰゚マᄑ‍♂️
In her spare time, she’s building a time machine so that someone can go back and do the laundry.
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~

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 am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

.
Join Us for this Book Series Tour from Mar 30 to May 1, 2020!
.
“Quill says: If you like your thrillers with lots of twists,
plenty of “creepy,” some paranormal events, and a fast-moving plot,
check out BULWARK. You might just be afraid to turn off the lights after reading the last page.” – Red Feathered Quill

“Brit Lunden’s paranormal fantasy novella, Bulwark,
is genuinely eerie and spooky, filled with the kinds of scary effects
that true lovers of the dark crave and rarely find. There are no gushes
of blood or other cheap special effects, just a consistently good
pulse-pounding story about an ancient evil and the one man who stands up
against it. Readers who grew up with the likes of Barker, King and Lovecraft will have a field day reading this classy, dark fantasy novella.” – Jack Magnus for Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)

“Author Brit Lunden has weaved an entertaining story that
spans paranormal, romance, and mystery. Thanks to the splattering of
action and the mysterious connection of characters and happenings, this
fast paced story is well suited to those looking for a light and
enjoyable thrill.” – Bianca Schulze
.

SERIES DETAILS:
Series Title Bulwark Anthology Collection
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+) (104 to 146 pages)
Genre Fantasy
Publisher Chelshire, Inc.
Release dates:   Jan 2018; Mar 2019; Sep 2019
Content Rating: PG + M:
Some violence and mild sex.

Series Details:

Bulwark: a wall or stockade that protects or sometimes hides the truth from the outside world.

The beating heart of this anthology is Bulwark, Georgia, isolated, hidden.

Sheriff Clay Finnes appears in each book, but he is not the main character in each book.

There is NO series arc requiring readers to read all 10 books in the
anthology. Every book is completely stand-alone. You can read the books
in order or out of order.

 

  Bulwark by Brit Lunden
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  146 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   January 2018
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.

51340707. sx318 sy475

Book Description:

Clay Finnes is the sheriff of a small town in Georgia called Bulwark.
Recently separated from his wife, all he can think about is what went
wrong, and will Jenna ever come back to him. He’s troubled by a
bothersome reporter trying to build a story from what he thinks is a
normal day in his life. Clay has to admit that the fantastical stories,
told by an accident victim as well as unusual sightings of wolves,
things are getting a bit strange. A visit to the ominous Gingerbread
House makes him realize that his life as he knows it will never be the
same.

 

The Knowing (Book 1): A Bulwark Anthology
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  104 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   Mar 2019
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.

Book Description:
.
Bulwark- a wall or stockade that protects or sometimes hides the truth
from the outside world. Bulwark, Georgia, isolated, hidden. Who knows
what strange things can happen when the rest of the world can’t see you?
JB Stratton is alone in the world, and all he has left are the memories
of his beloved Ellie. Dirt poor JB and wealthy Ellie feel an instant
connection that is as intense and primal as the blood red earth of their
home. Unseen roots connect them, pulling them into an impossible
relationship. Will the memories of past lives help or hinder the path of
their love? Based on the original novella Bulwark, by Brit Lunden, The
Knowing continues the story of a town isolated from the rest of the
world where the impossible becomes plausible, and logic is determined by
reality.
.

The Devil and Dayna Dalton: (Book 9) A Bulwark Anthology by Brit Lunden
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  126 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   Sep 2019
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.*Contains Sexual Content*

 

My Review

I read and liked a few of the previous books in the Bulwark series and I enjoyed this one too.

Dayna was labeled white trash and promiscuous as long as she could remember. Her mother’s reputation shadowed her whole life. I couldn’t help but hope for something good in her life despite her being her own worst enemy. I do tend to cheer for the underdog.

When strange things start happening in the small town, Dayna’s life becomes much more complicated. Buried secrets come to light and she meets a special someone who might change everything.

While the story was over before I was ready, it sure kept me glued to the pages. I had a really good time.

4 Stars

~~~~~

Book Description:

Reporter Dayna Dalton’s reputation has been ruined since birth. The
daughter of wild child, Becky Dalton, is expected to follow her mother’s
footsteps; never given a chance to prove she’s different. Dana’s been
in love with Clay Finnes since she was a teenager. Her unrequited love
for Sheriff Finnes leaves her empty. He’s happily married and
unavailable. Instead, Dayna finds herself stuck in the revolving door of
bad relationships. But this is Bulwark, Georgia, a town where strange
things are always happening. Dayna is doomed to this loveless life until
she can find someone who will appreciate the depth of her character.
Can she overcome her fears and look beyond her own perceptions to accept
a greater love? *Contains Sexual Content*

.
Meet the Author:
Brit Lunden is a prolific author who’s written over 50 books in assorted
genres under different pen names. Bulwark was her first effort in adult
fiction and was chosen by several of her fellow authors as the basis
for a new series, A Bulwark Anthology. Using her characters, they are
creating new denizens in spin-off stories to this bizarre town. Brit
Lunden lives on Long Island in a house full of helpful ghosts.Connect with the author: Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~  Instagram
.
.

Enter the Giveaway:

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

~~~~~

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 am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

.
Join Us for this Book Series Tour from Mar 30 to May 1, 2020!
.
“Quill says: If you like your thrillers with lots of twists,
plenty of “creepy,” some paranormal events, and a fast-moving plot,
check out BULWARK. You might just be afraid to turn off the lights after reading the last page.” – Red Feathered Quill

“Brit Lunden’s paranormal fantasy novella, Bulwark,
is genuinely eerie and spooky, filled with the kinds of scary effects
that true lovers of the dark crave and rarely find. There are no gushes
of blood or other cheap special effects, just a consistently good
pulse-pounding story about an ancient evil and the one man who stands up
against it. Readers who grew up with the likes of Barker, King and Lovecraft will have a field day reading this classy, dark fantasy novella.” – Jack Magnus for Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)

“Author Brit Lunden has weaved an entertaining story that
spans paranormal, romance, and mystery. Thanks to the splattering of
action and the mysterious connection of characters and happenings, this
fast paced story is well suited to those looking for a light and
enjoyable thrill.” – Bianca Schulze
.

SERIES DETAILS:
Series Title Bulwark Anthology Collection
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+) (104 to 146 pages)
Genre Fantasy
Publisher Chelshire, Inc.
Release dates:   Jan 2018; Mar 2019; Sep 2019
Content Rating: PG + M:
Some violence and mild sex.

 

Series Details:

Bulwark: a wall or stockade that protects or sometimes hides the truth from the outside world.

The beating heart of this anthology is Bulwark, Georgia, isolated, hidden.

Sheriff Clay Finnes appears in each book, but he is not the main character in each book.

There is NO series arc requiring readers to read all 10 books in the
anthology. Every book is completely stand-alone. You can read the books
in order or out of order.

Book Details:

 Bulwark by Brit Lunden
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  146 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   January 2018
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.

51340707. sx318 sy475

 

Book Description:

Clay Finnes is the sheriff of a small town in Georgia called Bulwark.
Recently separated from his wife, all he can think about is what went
wrong, and will Jenna ever come back to him. He’s troubled by a
bothersome reporter trying to build a story from what he thinks is a
normal day in his life. Clay has to admit that the fantastical stories,
told by an accident victim as well as unusual sightings of wolves,
things are getting a bit strange. A visit to the ominous Gingerbread
House makes him realize that his life as he knows it will never be the
same.

.

Book Details:

  The Knowing (Book 1): A Bulwark Anthology
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  104 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   Mar 2019
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.

My Review

I read Bulwark, the first book in this series and really liked it. The plot was dark and mysterious, with genuine characters. It’s where I was introduced to JB so I guess I was expecting The Knowing to feel similar.

As JB pondered the past and his love for his wife, Ellie, I got this warm feeling inside. I realized the plot was going to be about life, paths and choices. All the best ingredients for a love story. And what a great love story it turned out to be.

I read this even faster than the first book and had such a great time. I can’t wait to see what comes next in this exciting series.

4 Stars

~~~~~

.
Book Description:
.
Bulwark- a wall or stockade that protects or sometimes hides the truth
from the outside world. Bulwark, Georgia, isolated, hidden. Who knows
what strange things can happen when the rest of the world can’t see you?
JB Stratton is alone in the world, and all he has left are the memories
of his beloved Ellie. Dirt poor JB and wealthy Ellie feel an instant
connection that is as intense and primal as the blood red earth of their
home. Unseen roots connect them, pulling them into an impossible
relationship. Will the memories of past lives help or hinder the path of
their love? Based on the original novella Bulwark, by Brit Lunden, The
Knowing continues the story of a town isolated from the rest of the
world where the impossible becomes plausible, and logic is determined by
reality.
.

Book Details:

 The Devil and Dayna Dalton: (Book 9) A Bulwark Anthology by Brit Lunden
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  126 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   Sep 2019
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.*Contains Sexual Content*

Book Description:

Reporter Dayna Dalton’s reputation has been ruined since birth. The
daughter of wild child, Becky Dalton, is expected to follow her mother’s
footsteps; never given a chance to prove she’s different. Dana’s been
in love with Clay Finnes since she was a teenager. Her unrequited love
for Sheriff Finnes leaves her empty. He’s happily married and
unavailable. Instead, Dayna finds herself stuck in the revolving door of
bad relationships. But this is Bulwark, Georgia, a town where strange
things are always happening. Dayna is doomed to this loveless life until
she can find someone who will appreciate the depth of her character.
Can she overcome her fears and look beyond her own perceptions to accept
a greater love? *Contains Sexual Content*

.
Meet the Author:
Brit Lunden is a prolific author who’s written over 50 books in assorted
genres under different pen names. Bulwark was her first effort in adult
fiction and was chosen by several of her fellow authors as the basis
for a new series, A Bulwark Anthology. Using her characters, they are
creating new denizens in spin-off stories to this bizarre town. Brit
Lunden lives on Long Island in a house full of helpful ghosts.Connect with the author: Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~  Instagram
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Enter the Giveaway:

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

~~~~~

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Join Us for this Book Series Tour from Mar 30 to May 1, 2020!
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“Quill says: If you like your thrillers with lots of twists,
plenty of “creepy,” some paranormal events, and a fast-moving plot,
check out BULWARK. You might just be afraid to turn off the lights after reading the last page.” – Red Feathered Quill

“Brit Lunden’s paranormal fantasy novella, Bulwark,
is genuinely eerie and spooky, filled with the kinds of scary effects
that true lovers of the dark crave and rarely find. There are no gushes
of blood or other cheap special effects, just a consistently good
pulse-pounding story about an ancient evil and the one man who stands up
against it. Readers who grew up with the likes of Barker, King and Lovecraft will have a field day reading this classy, dark fantasy novella.” – Jack Magnus for Readers’ Favorite (5-Star Review)

“Author Brit Lunden has weaved an entertaining story that
spans paranormal, romance, and mystery. Thanks to the splattering of
action and the mysterious connection of characters and happenings, this
fast paced story is well suited to those looking for a light and
enjoyable thrill.” – Bianca Schulze
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SERIES DETAILS:
Series Title Bulwark Anthology Collection
Category:  Adult Fiction (18+) (104 to 146 pages)
Genre Fantasy
Publisher Chelshire, Inc.
Release dates:   Jan 2018; Mar 2019; Sep 2019
Content Rating: PG + M:
Some violence and mild sex.

Series Details:

Bulwark: a wall or stockade that protects or sometimes hides the truth from the outside world.

The beating heart of this anthology is Bulwark, Georgia, isolated, hidden.

Sheriff Clay Finnes appears in each book, but he is not the main character in each book.

There is NO series arc requiring readers to read all 10 books in the
anthology. Every book is completely stand-alone. You can read the books
in order or out of order.

Book Details:

 Bulwark by Brit Lunden

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Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  146 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   January 2018
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.

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My Review

Small town settings are such a draw for me. Especially in the horror and paranormal genres. Brit Lunden sucked me right into this one with her flawed, vulnerable character, Sheriff Clay Finnes. His daughter has been missing for a long time and his marriage is crumbling. Things happen to challenge him to the core as he follows the bread crumbs for answers.

Bulwark may be a shorter read but the author packed it with so much mystery to ponder. What’s real and what isn’t keep you guessing. Where does the weird green water come from? Is there a Gingerbread House? What about the reports of wolves in the woods around town? And can a witch be behind all of the bad things that have happened?

I wasn’t sure about anything as I raced through this book.  The plot is revealed like driving a winding road. You can’t see what’s around the next curve, especially the ending.

4 Stars

~~~~~

Book Description:

Clay Finnes is the sheriff of a small town in Georgia called Bulwark.
Recently separated from his wife, all he can think about is what went
wrong, and will Jenna ever come back to him. He’s troubled by a
bothersome reporter trying to build a story from what he thinks is a
normal day in his life. Clay has to admit that the fantastical stories,
told by an accident victim as well as unusual sightings of wolves,
things are getting a bit strange. A visit to the ominous Gingerbread
House makes him realize that his life as he knows it will never be the
same.

Book Details:

Book TitleThe Knowing (Book 1): A Bulwark Anthology
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  104 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   Mar 2019
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.

Book Description:
.
Bulwark- a wall or stockade that protects or sometimes hides the truth
from the outside world. Bulwark, Georgia, isolated, hidden. Who knows
what strange things can happen when the rest of the world can’t see you?
JB Stratton is alone in the world, and all he has left are the memories
of his beloved Ellie. Dirt poor JB and wealthy Ellie feel an instant
connection that is as intense and primal as the blood red earth of their
home. Unseen roots connect them, pulling them into an impossible
relationship. Will the memories of past lives help or hinder the path of
their love? Based on the original novella Bulwark, by Brit Lunden, The
Knowing continues the story of a town isolated from the rest of the
world where the impossible becomes plausible, and logic is determined by
reality.

Book Details:

 The Devil and Dayna Dalton: (Book 9) A Bulwark Anthology by Brit Lunden
Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  126 pages
Genre:  Fantasy
Publisher:  Chelshire, Inc.
Release date:   Sep 2019
Content Rating:  PG + M due to violence and mild sex.*Contains Sexual Content*

Book Description:

Reporter Dayna Dalton’s reputation has been ruined since birth. The
daughter of wild child, Becky Dalton, is expected to follow her mother’s
footsteps; never given a chance to prove she’s different. Dana’s been
in love with Clay Finnes since she was a teenager. Her unrequited love
for Sheriff Finnes leaves her empty. He’s happily married and
unavailable. Instead, Dayna finds herself stuck in the revolving door of
bad relationships. But this is Bulwark, Georgia, a town where strange
things are always happening. Dayna is doomed to this loveless life until
she can find someone who will appreciate the depth of her character.
Can she overcome her fears and look beyond her own perceptions to accept
a greater love? *Contains Sexual Content*

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Meet the Author:
Brit Lunden is a prolific author who’s written over 50 books in assorted
genres under different pen names. Bulwark was her first effort in adult
fiction and was chosen by several of her fellow authors as the basis
for a new series, A Bulwark Anthology. Using her characters, they are
creating new denizens in spin-off stories to this bizarre town. Brit
Lunden lives on Long Island in a house full of helpful ghosts.Connect with the author: Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook  ~  Instagram
.
.

Enter the Giveaway:

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

~~~~~

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 am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Welcome to My Monday Minis where I share short reviews about books I’ve read.

I came across this one and couldn’t resist. I’m always on the lookout for my next werewolf read.

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Tooth & Claw

by Dave Jeffery

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Genre: Horror

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My Review

Take a good look at the cover for this one. What you see is what you get.

Some rich clients line up for the hunt of all hunts. Their host fills his coffers with their loot and gives them each a turn at the trophy of a lifetime. But the prey doesn’t run, It brings the hunt to them. It’s bullet and arrow facing off against tooth and claw.

For all of you werewolf lovers, doesn’t miss this one. It’s got an entertaining cast of characters, some intriguing back stories about them, and some nasty wolves you hope you’ll never encounter. I had a bloody good time and wish this would be made into a movie. I had fun trying to pick who would play who.

4 STARS

~~~~~

Synopsis

There’s no place quite like Cofton Grange. Set in twelve-hundred acres of hills and woodland, it is a playground for the wealthy where, for the right price, every desire is made a reality.

 

Tonight is special; a group of hunters have bought into the most exclusive contest, the opportunity to track and kill a fantastic and terrifying creature not of this Earth. The stakes are high, each competitor determined to claim the kudos that will come from taking down their incredible prey.

 

But as the moon rises and the pursuit begins, each hunter is about to find out that sometimes there are fiercer things than the competition.

 

Tooth and Claw—The hunt is on!

Amazon

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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

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

Saturday Screams #67 ~ Snowball

Posted: February 15, 2020 in horror, reviews
Tags: ,

Welcome to my Saturday Screams where I share books that thrill and chill!

Today I have a frosty one for ya!

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My Review

 I love horror stories where the elements play a huge part in character survival. This one didn’t disappoint.

A bunch of motorists get stranded on a patch of highway during a snow storm. Whiteout conditions, freezing temps. I can’t imagine how bad that would be. Throw in some seriously creepy snowmen that mysteriously appear and it all goes crazy from there.

I’ve always been told that when caught in a situation like this, it’s best to stay put. Wait it out. Something forces a few of these people to seek help. Could the cabin in the woods provide that? Or was it all a lure? I couldn’t wait to find out. And when I did, what a wacky, twisted ending it was. And I have to mention that the cover is perfect.

4 STARS

Thanks so much to Flame Tree Press and Author Gregory Bastianelli for a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.

~~~~~

Synopsis

A group of motorists become stranded on a lonely stretch of highway during a Christmas Eve blizzard and fight for survival against an unnatural force in the storm. The gathered survivors realize a tenuous connection among them means it may not be a coincidence that they all ended up on this highway. An attempt to seek help leads a few of the travelers to a house in the woods where a twisted toymaker with a mystical snow globe is hell bent on playing deadly games with a group of people just trying to get home for the holidays.

Flame Tree Press is the new fiction imprint of Flame Tree Publishing. Launched in 2018 the list brings together brilliant new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices.

Amazon

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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

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

.
“Steps up several levels into an exciting category all its own. It’s thriller, cold case,
mystery suspense, and police procedural, all rolled into one exciting
novel. Set amidst the political drama that comes with Washington DC and
the Pentagon, a current multiple murder becomes a search years in the
past. With a young, hot lieutenant assigned to NCIS, and his beautiful
new wife, you have all the makings of a bestseller.  Nicely done, Ms.
Carr!” – Review by Merry Citarella, Mystery Suspense Reviews
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The Latest Best-Selling Thorny Rose Mystery Available Now!

Get Your Copy Today!

 

Join us for this tour from Jan 20 to Feb 28, 2020!

 

 The Nutcracker Conspiracy
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A Thorny Rose Mystery #4
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by Lauren Carr
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Category:  Adult Fiction (18 +),  388 pages
Genre:  Mystery
Publisher:  Acorn Book Services
Release date:   January 30, 2020
Content Rating:  PG-13 (Lauren Carr’s books are murder mysteries,
so there are murders involved. Occasionally, a murder will happen on
stage. There is sexual content, but always behind closed doors. Some
mild swearing (a hell or a damn few and far between). No F-bombs!

 

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MY REVIEW

I love this series and I’m thrilled to get back to it.

So much worked in this book. The characters were complex. Many of them were favorites I’d encountered in the previous books. The mystery was convoluted. Something caught my attention and pointed to who was behind the crimes. Later, something else kind of confirmed it for me. Imagine my surprise when I found out I was way off the mark and it was someone else. I think those misdirection’s Lauren planted were intentional and very clever.

There was also a prank thing going on. Someone from the past returned and a certain someone else couldn’t resist getting payback, in quite the imaginative ways.

And let’s not forget my other favorites. The critters! This time there are reported sightings of a lycanthrope terrorizing the community. It strikes from cover, even from up in the trees. I wonder who it could be. LOL

I had so much fun and didn’t want it to end. Now I can’t wait for the next book in this charming, addictive and hilarious series.

5 Stars

~~~~~

Book Description:

Three years ago, the nation gasped in horror when the President of the
United States barely escaped an assassination attempt that left two
dead—the vice president’s wife and the attempted assassin.  Even after
numerous investigations proved otherwise, conspiracy theorists argue
that the assassin was acting on orders from the CIA, FBI, and every
federal agency within a hundred miles of the capital.

Aspiring Author Dean Conway is the last person Lieutenant Commander
Murphy Thornton wants to spend his Saturday afternoon when they end up
at the same wedding reception table. While their wives tend to
bridesmaid duties, Murphy is trapped listening to Dean’s latest
work-in-project—completing the manuscript of an investigative journalist
who’d disappeared months earlier.

“She was number twelve,” Dean says.

“Twelve?” Murphy asks.

“Twelve witnesses connected to or investigating The Nutcracker shooting have died either in an accident or suicide.”

Two days later, Dean dies suddenly―but not before sending a text message to Murphy:

“13”

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Check Out These Other Thorny Rose Mysteries:
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“The plot was original, fresh and fast paced in spite of the
“traditional elements” employed which can normally be found in any other
thriller of this genre. The USP of this story would be its
unpredictability. When you think you have it all guessed up, the plot
would change its course keeping you hooked. There were a lot of suspense
twists and turns that kept the momentum up. Needless to say, the
writing was simply perfect. One thing that writer needs to be lauded for
is the humor she inculcated in the book. Minus those humorous parts,
the book would have been one serious read.” – Reviewer: Book and Ink

 

Book Description:
.

Five women with seemingly nothing in common are found brutally murdered
in a townhome outside Washington, DC. Among the many questions
surrounding the massacre is what had brought these apparent strangers
together only to be killed.

Taking on his first official murder case, Lieutenant Murphy Thornton,
USN, believes that if he can uncover the thread connecting the victims,
then he can find their murderer.

The case takes an unexpected turn when Murphy discovers that one of the
victims has a connection to his stepmother, Homicide Detective Cameron
Gates. One wintry night, over a dozen years before, her first husband, a
Pennsylvania State trooper, had been run down while working a night
shift on the turnpike.

In this first installment of the Thorny Rose Mysteries, the Lovers in
Crime join newlyweds Murphy Thornton and Jessica Faraday to shift
through a web of lies and cover-ups. Together, can the detectives of the
Thorny Rose uncover the truth without falling victim to a cunning
killer?

MY 5 STAR REVIEW

.

“Mysteries, murder, danger, and memories that threatens their
lives keeps the action and suspense at a high level and even when the
answers are found, it left me wanting more.” – Review by Sherry Fundin of Fundinmental

Book Description:
.
After ten months of marital bliss, Jessica Faraday and Murphy Thornton
are still discovering and adjusting to their life together. Settled in
their new home, everything appears to be perfect … except in the middle
of the night when, in the darkest shadows of her subconscious, a deep
secret from Jessica’s past creeps to the surface to make her strike out
at Murphy.When investigative journalist Dallas Walker tells the couple about her
latest case, known as the Pine Bridge Massacre, they realize Jessica may
have witnessed the murder of a family while visiting family at the
winery near-by, and suppressed the memory.Determined to uncover the truth and find justice for the murder victims,
Jessica and Murphy return to the scene of the crime with Dallas Walker,
a spunky bull-headed Texan. Can this family reunion bring closure for a
community touched by tragedy or will this prickly get-together bring an
end to the Thorny Rose couple?
.

MY 5 STAR REVIEW

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 Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ Audible
Add to Goodreads
.

Murder by Perfection is a wonderful read and a perfect to
escape from the challenges of a busy day. Danger, intrigue, humor, and
love all take their turn in this tale which will keep you reading into
the wee hours.” Review by Marilyn R. Wilson, Olio by Marilyn

Book Description:

.

Beware: Perfection has a dark side!

Frustrated with their busy schedules, Murphy Thornton and Jessica
Faraday attempt to find togetherness by scheduling a weekly date night.
The last thing Jessica Faraday expected for her date night was to take a
couple’s gourmet cooking course at the Stepford Kitchen Studio, owned
by Chef Natalie Stepford―the model of perfection in looks, home, and
business.

When Natalie ends up dead and Murphy goes missing, the Thorny Rose
detectives must peel back the layers of Natalie Stepford’s life to
discover that the pursuit of perfection can be deadly.

MY 5 STAR REVIEW

 

Buy the Book:
Amazon
Add to Goodreads
.
.
Meet Author Lauren Carr:
.

Lauren Carr is the international
best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, Chris Matheson
Cold Case, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty-five titles across
three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!

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.

A popular speaker, Lauren is also
the owner of Acorn Book Service, the umbrella under which falls iRead
Book Tours. She lives with her husband and two spoiled rotten German
Shepherds on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.

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

.
Enter the Giveaway:
 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~

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 am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.