Tag Archive | books

The Mysterious Disappearance of Mr Darcy

Apr4

Book Link

From Amazon:

What secrets lie in Mr. Darcy’s past?

During a summer sojourn in Ramsgate, Elizabeth Bennet meets Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy—an irresistible, eminent, and seemingly unobtainable model of an ideal gentleman. Following a whirlwind romance with Mr. Darcy and a blossoming friendship with Georgiana Darcy, her life is forever altered.

When Darcy disappears under mysterious circumstances, the new Mrs. Darcy’s world is thrown into chaos. A friend of Darcy’s provides much-needed support as Elizabeth is confronted with rumours insinuating lewd explanations for his absence. Could any of them be true?

In this Pride and Prejudice variation, a Regency mystery romance, Elizabeth cannot be certain what to believe or whom to trust. She is determined to find out what befell Darcy, but will the truth break her heart?

TRIGGER WARNING: THIS STORY MENTIONS A PAST ASSAULT ON A YOUNG WOMAN THAT IS THWARTED BY A MAIN CHARACTER.

My Review:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best one yet Reviewed in the United States on April 2, 2024

Verified Purchase

Miller doesn’t let up one little bit. In this Pride and Prejudice version, she has outdone herself. I loved this novel. Of course, most all characters are known to me, having read all of her other versions, and Jane Austin. I do find I love this version the best. Thanks.

Murder on Pointe

Mar15

Book Link

From Amazon:

Fiona can’t wait to attend the performance of Coppelia at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh. Her old friend, Silja Ramsay, is dancing the principal role. They have dinner after the show, but when they return Pittsburgh Ballet Theater is down one dancer! Ballerina, Alexis Cartwright, has been found dead in the dressing room. Is this murder a result of hot tempers among the cast members? Or is it a random act of violence? Will there be more murders? Homicide Detective, Nathan Landry, isn’t taking any chances. After finding out Fiona has a strong background in ballet he recruits her to go undercover among the cast of Coppelia. Can Fiona help catch a killer, or will she be the next victim?

My Review:

First off, I’ve not read any of the books in this series in order. I’m okay with that. Reading book one was perfect since the last in this series was book twelve. Anyway, Fiona has a grandmother, now deceased, who starts fresh coffee for Fiona. That’s sweet. As in the other books I’ve read, this one involves murder and laughter both. Not that murder is funny since it isn’t, but being this is fiction, the humor is nice to have. Fiona goes undercover as a ballerina to help catch the one responsible for another ballerina’s death. The shenanigans go from there. Fiona lives to tell this story, and she’s in book 12 as well, so never fear, she lives.

Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather

Mar6

Please welcome Jordan K. Nightsage to my blog. Good morning, Jordan. Shall we have a chat?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hi Mary, thank you so much for having me here.  I’m Jordan, I am from Metro Detroit, Michigan, USA.  I am a relatively new author of illustrated children’s books, middle grade novel series, and young adult novel series in the epic fantasy adventure (with a touch of sci-fi) genre.  I am a single father with two young children who are my main inspiration to write and publish.  I am an attorney in my day job and currently a master’s student.

My books all take place on the continent Aurea Olam, on the planet Terris, in Alpha Dimension.  To give you an idea of how the fictional universe is set up, Earth is in Omega Dimension (where Leo James is from) and the highly advanced Sigmatic Civilization is from Sigma Dimension.  These are essentially parallel worlds and traveling between dimensions does not require space travel, at least not as far as I have gotten in the story so far.

My first illustrated children’s book, ‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’ just came out in February and I am excited about it.  The next book in the series will be ‘Leo James and the Magical Golden Antlers’ and will introduce Milah Quin as Leo’s new friend.  I have two more children’s books written and being illustrated right now.  One of them will be called ‘Leo James and the Lion’s Magical Quest’ and the other will be titled ‘Milah Quin and the Quest for the Pirate’s Treasure’.  I am also working on a middle grade novel series, the first book of which will be called ‘Leo James and the Runestone Compass’.  I am also finalizing my first young adult novel called ‘The Wounds We Carry: The Eradicators, Part 1’.  Milah Quin will also star in the young adult sci-fi fantasy series ‘The Sigmatic Paradox’, the first book of which I am working on now as well.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

Writing has always been a part of my life but, up until 2023, I always focused on expository writing mostly for school and work.  As my children have grown to reading age, I have been inspired to start exploring this wonderful new world of creative writing.  I came up with the character of Leo James first and the rest has sort of grown from there.  Now I have a whole expansive fictional universe for my stories to take place in.  My first book idea was ‘Leo James and the Runestone Compass’; however, the first book that I finished was ‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’.  I have been having so much fun through this whole journey, I would really like to do this full time if I can.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

I would not say that writing my first book was too difficult.  Publishing and promoting it have been more difficult.  I have learned a few valuable lessons the hard way through this process and hopefully I won’t make the same mistakes again.  There are a lot of details to attend to in publishing and time management is always difficult with kids, work, and school in addition to writing, publishing, and promoting my books and expansive universe.  ‘Fenix Feather’ is only about 1,000 words so it did not take too long to write.  My other books for older kids and teenagers have of course taken longer to write.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

I can’t say that I have wanted to give up, but I have definitely found myself discouraged and worrisome over a few bumps in the road that have come up.  For instance, after I had uploaded ‘Fenix Feather’ to a bunch of different platforms, applied for copyright registration for multiple versions of the book, and done a number of other time-intensive things for the book, I realized that there was an error from a previous draft in the final version.  I had to do a lot of work all over again despite having other responsibilities and opportunities to attend to—this was probably the closest I have been to quitting.  I did not quit though thankfully.

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

I have several great people in my life who are very supportive of my creative endeavors.  Several family members and several friends have been very supportive, especially when it comes to helping with my kids when necessary.  My family and friends buy my books, share them with their friends, and are almost always ready to offer an encouraging word.  I couldn’t do any of this without the people around me, that’s for sure.

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

First, thank you so much for picking up and reading my books!  Without my readers it wouldn’t be worth it to me.  I take great care in writing and editing to try to put myself in the shoes of my readers and write something that will be moving and meaningful to them, regardless of what their personal experiences have been in life.  I want to speak to my readers’ mind, soul, and spirit when I write.  I also always appreciate constructive feedback, so don’t ever be afraid to contact me by social media or through my website at https://JordanKNightsage.com.

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

Let’s see, I have gotten a lot of good advice over the years so I will keep it to book advice.  I would probably say that the advice to seek out advice and guidance from other authors and people in the industry who know more and have more experience than me has probably been the best advice I have received.  The reader and author communities have really been very friendly and helpful, which has been a very pleasant surprise since I started writing and publishing.  I would give this advice to other new authors as well—know when to ask for help.  And check out the reviews when selecting freelancers—having someone to recommend a freelancer from personal experience is often even better.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

As mentioned above, my target audience is children ages 4-9 and their parents for illustrated children’s books.  My children’s books use fantasy, fairy tales, and modern mythology to teach very human and I believe timeless lessons to kids.  For instance, ‘Fenix Feather’ deals with themes of facing fear, courage/bravery, friendship, family reunification, and helping others (specifically helping animals but I think the lesson applies to others in general).

My middle grade books are intended for kids 8-12 and anyone who enjoys fantasy adventure books like ‘The Hobbit’, ‘Harry Potter’, ‘Percy Jackson’, and ‘The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe’.  I work in some more mature topics, there are real antagonists for the heroes to struggle against (unlike in the children’s books), and I work in themes like courage in the face of unstoppable evil, family, fellowship, depending on your friends, being someone your friends can depend on, resilience, self-sacrifice, and some conservationist/environmental themes as well.

My young adult books have an intended audience of 12–18-year-olds and anyone who enjoys epic fantasy adventure stories like ‘The Lord of the Rings’, later ‘Harry Potter’ books, ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’, and even Star Wars.  I incorporate more mature themes (ex. discrimination, immortality, war and warfare, vengeance vs. mercy, forgiveness vs. hatred, romance, etc.).  I also explore more moral ambiguities and philosophical dilemmas.

All of my writing seeks to bring meaning and a human touch to the various fictional fantasy situations and stories unfolding.  I try to incorporate observations on human nature and society into all my writing as well.  All my middle grade and young adult books also have overlapping characters, locations, and storylines, with the intention of concluding the franchise saga in a future young adult series I have not yet started yet besides some basic outlining called ‘The Reclamation of Light’.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

The cover for ‘Fenix Feather’ was illustrated by professional illustrator Tamara Piper, who is a great person and great to work with all the way around.  I highly recommend Tamara if anyone is looking for a good children’s book illustrator.

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

My first illustrated children’s book, ‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’ just came out in February and I am excited about it.  The next book in the series will be ‘Leo James and the Magical Golden Antlers’ and will introduce Milah Quin as Leo’s new friend.  I have two more children’s books written and being illustrated right now.  One of them will be called ‘Leo James and the Lion’s Magical Quest’ and the other will be titled ‘Milah Quin and the Quest for the Pirate’s Treasure’.  I am also working on a middle grade novel series, the first book of which will be called ‘Leo James and the Runestone Compass’.  I am also finalizing my first young adult novel called ‘The Wounds We Carry: The Eradicators, Part 1’.  Milah Quin will also star in the young adult sci-fi fantasy series ‘The Sigmatic Paradox’, the first book of which I am working on now as well.

And sure, here is an excerpt from ‘The Wounds We Carry: The Eradicators, Part 1’:

***

Rylan stared into the fire as it danced violently, oblivious to the turmoil within Amon. Both men sat completely still as they soaked in the eerie silence of the dark of night. The moonless sky overhead was like a bland canvas sparingly lit by the specks of stars that dared to interrupt the bleakness of the night. 

Amon was seething as he sat a few feet away from Rylan, and he consciously chose not to speak to anyone after he returned to camp until he saw and spoke to The Razer. When he spoke, he kept a lid on the emotions that bubbled beneath the surface.

“I need to ask you something, and I need you to be completely honest with me, Rylan Wolfmark.”

Rylan threw kindling into the fire and watched as it sent flames into the air before he replied. “A conversation that starts with you calling me by my full name—I’m not sure I like where this is going.”

Rylan’s face remained stern throughout his delivery, slightly confusing Amon if he meant it to be in jest. However, that was not the biggest question on his mind, so he continued unperturbed. 

“How long have you known about Ferox Renovae and the Desolatari and kept it to yourself?”

He kept his eyes fixed on Rylan as he asked the question, studying his reaction as much as his choice of words. 

Rylan drew long, steady breaths as he contemplated his response. 

“Amon… The burden of a leader…”

Amon interrupted him with a curt hand in the air as he looked away momentarily in disgust. “That was not what I asked, Rylan. How long did you continue to lead us into battle after I told you about the visions that plagued me? After I told you that every swing of my sword had started to haunt me?”

“He has spoken to you?” Rylan asked.

“That was not the question, Rylan. I need to hear you admit that you hid the truth from me and the others.”

“I should have done better,” Rylan finally admitted. 

“You can start today by releasing the people we have in cages,” Amon suggested. 

Rylan went mute for what felt like an eternity before he answered. “I can’t, Amon. I’m sorry, but I cannot. I wish I could look into your eyes and tell you that I believe that they are no longer threats to lives, that I can live with myself after what I watched them do to my family… I’ve chosen this path, and I know it will take its toll, as all war does. I must stay true to my mission even if it means I must deaden my heart. Even if it means I must sacrifice pieces of my own soul.” He paused as the weight of his next words settled on him. “I’m sorry, Amon. I must do it this way.”

Amon’s eyes welled up as he heard Rylan’s words. His compromised vision did not allow him to see the streak of fluid that rolled down the side of his war brother’s cheeks. “Thank you for being honest with me.”

“It was the least you deserved.”

Amon rose slowly with an exaggerated grunt, knowing it might be the final time they sat together like that. “Thank you for all the years, Rylan.  You have been a father to me.”

***

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

Well, I just want to say thank you again for having me, Mary.  And thank you again to all my fans and readers—you are truly appreciated.

Author Bio:

Jordan K. Nightsage, the creative mind behind Aurea Olam, the planet Terris, and Alpha Dimension, hails from Metro Detroit, Michigan, USA. Jordan’s books include children’s, middle grade, and young adult fantasy adventure with a touch of science fiction. A dedicated father of two young children, Jordan’s tales draw from the classic inspirations of J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, J. K. Rowling, and George Lucas, weaving a tapestry of epic fantasy and vibrant science fiction with threads of everyday relatability.

Jordan fostered a lifelong dream of weaving his own narratives. He writes with the intention to entertain and ignite thought and empathy, hoping to add a small yet meaningful stroke on the canvas of the world through his words.

Through his novels and short stories, Jordan invites readers of all ages to take part in an exciting voyage of fantasy, discovery, and personal growth. His narrative voice is a testament to the power of stories, how they can serve to entertain, educate, and inspire.

‘Leo James and the Magical Fenix Feather’: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CR1YWSFB

Find More of Jordan’s Books: https://amazon.com/author/jordanknightsage

Official Website & Blog: https://jordanknightsage.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jordannightsage

X/Twitter: https://x.com/jordannightsage

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorJordanNightsage

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jordannightsage

Pinterest: https://pin.it/p8QSnSe

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjordannightsage

Deep Blue Murder 

Mar6

Book Link:

From Amazon:

Fiona is delighted when her new mother-in-law, Rita Landry, invites her and Nathan to a private island in the Bahamas owned by a US ambassador. Sun, sandy beaches, and romantic, tangerine sunsets await the newlyweds, but for Rita and her executive assistant, Hal Underwood, the trip to Deep Blue Isle is a working vacation. Ambassador Taslow has summoned them to the island to discuss a scandal he has fallen victim to. However, when the Landry’s and Hal arrive, they find less than welcoming circumstances: no internet or Wi-Fi, mischievous monkeys, a dangerous tenant, and then there’s that pesky dead body. A storm is brewing on Deep Blue Isle, and it has nothing to do with wind and rain.

My Review:

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Another winner!! Reviewed in the United States on March 4, 2024

Verified Purchase

This book has been a wonderful read, just like other books in this series. I loved the setting and the creative manner in which the author wove into the story the host of many villains, or maybe one or two? I can’t give away everything, can I? The characters are lively and engaging. The mysteries intrigue, and the setting is relaxing if you’re not one of the main characters. I’ve never heard of wood flooring of any type used on an island anywhere, so I would like to know how it was made or protected from island humidity. Something had to be used on it to make it work. Hopefully, the author will clue me in since I’m clueless. Fiona’s grandmother is a cool ghost, to say the least. Protective of Fiona and Nathan, she is, and brings me to my next question. Has this author been in the presence of a ghost type of situation in real life?

Nova Terra: The Secret of Galeeza

Mar2

Please welcome Garland, to my blog. Shall we have a chat?

1. Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hello everybody! My name’s Garland Redvine! I’m a pseudonymous self-published author who specializes in fantasy, science-fiction, and adventure books.

2. Has writing always been part of your life and when did you “know” that it was time to start writing your first book?

I always loved to read and write. I learned to read quickly when I was young. As for writing and storytelling, that came equally as natural to me. Even though I was pretty shy, I used to tell and write stories to entertain my family and friends. To me, hearing, telling, or writing a great story was just magical.

I’ve been practicing writing my first book ever since I knew how to write (I’m not kidding!). I knew I wanted a career in literature, movies, or video games. I had dreams of writing a successful book or series.

3. How difficult was it writing your first book?

If I’m going to be honest, calling it “difficult” would be the understatement of the century.

For the past few years, life has been stressful. I was stuck in a struggling dead-end job that hardly paid any bills. I didn’t have any connections or network. Not even an online presence. And I was totally alone.

Basically, I had little money, no friends, and virtually no control over my life.

All these things overwhelmed me and I sank into a deep, dark depression. I felt invisible and helpless. I even felt like all the pressure was making me physically sick! It was horrible.

But if I ever had anything I could rely on, it was that I loved to write. So I did.

4. Have you ever wanted to give up and what stopped you?

The stress of my situation definitely wore on me and there were times where all I wanted to do was lay there on the ground and rot. But my will was strong. I wasn’t about to let the unforgiving world stop me from doing what I loved.

I motivated myself and wrote that fantasy story that had been sitting around in my head for years. I knew that if there was anything I wanted to do in this life, it was to publish a book. I got inspiration from Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird (the creators of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) and Amanda Hocking. Their stories of success in self-publishing inspired me to try my hand at it. 

5. Who is the most supportive of you and your dream to be a writer?

My parents generally gave me moral support. My father in particular really nurtured my love of reading and storytelling. My parents were ecstatic to see that I managed to self-publish a novel given my circumstances. 

6. Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

I believe a story should not just be well-written, but exciting, emotional, and keep you turning the page. The first book in my fantasy series, Nova Terra: The Secret of Galeeza, is available on Amazon! Kindly leave a rating and review to support your new favorite fantasy author! 🙂

7. What is the best advice given to you (book or otherwise), and by whom?

“Success is a planned event.” – a random fortune cookie.

8. What is your target audience and what aspect of your writing do you feel targets that audience?

My target audience is adult fans of fantasy, science-fiction, and adventure. The aspect of my writing that I feel targets the audience is the sense of adventure, wonder, and nostalgia while also exploring complex, unique characters.

I also believe in writing a story that is never boring. I want my books to feel like a movie in your head.

If you like Legend of Zelda or Final Fantasy, you’ll enjoy my work too.

9. Did the cover evolve the same way, or did you work with someone to make it come together for you?

When making the cover, I remember I had a specific image in mind: That of my  two main characters, Deronis Narpaz and Greenstar, fighting a monster (the Chimera as its known in the story). I wanted the cover to be eye-catching so I requested my cover artist to make it vibrant. I also wanted readers to feel like they were behind the characters as if preparing to fight the monster too. It would look both ominous and interesting.

10. What are you working on now? Can we get a peek, an excerpt?

The next book in the Nova Terra series is called The Crystals of Order.

The following excerpt is a monologue spoken by Sivaldion, the God of Order to his team called the Defenders of Order:

“We have tasked ourselves with locating the six Crystals that hold my divinity. So far, we have been successful in doing that. They are in six different areas of Nova Terra: Tamas, Miktlan, the Mechanisarria, Midgard, and Ybardia.

To combat the plans of  the Tribe of Insanity and their mad god, we have carefully selected five capable, honorable warriors to get back the Crystals and restore Order to Nova Terra. Those warriors, dear friends, are all of you.”

11. Any last words before we wrap things up?

Writing a book, whether traditionally-published or self-published, is anything but easy. It requires money, commitment, passion, and creativity. My goal is to give readers a literary experience they’ll never forget. Any and all support is welcome and appreciated! Also, feel free to follow me on any of my socials!

Links needed for:  Blog, author page, website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon, Tumblr, Barnes & Noble, Instagram, etc. Give them in list form, thanks.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nova-Terra-Galeeza-Garland-Redvine/dp/B0C9S9QBW2

Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/garlandredvine

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garlandredvine/

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/GarlandRedvine

Dark Betrayal

Feb6

Book Link

From Amazon

Britain, February 392 AD.

The Roman Empire is on the brink of civil war.

The Western Roman Emperor Valentinian has died in mysterious circumstance following a long running dispute with the commanding general of his army, Arbogastes, a Frank. It is feared that Arbogastes has a candidate he will install on the Western throne as his puppet.

The Eastern Emperor Theodosius fears that the Empire will once more be plunged into civil war. The war chest is depleted, and Theodosius needs the money to finance an army. Previously the Emperor spared the lives of the usurper Magnus Maximus’ wife Elen and their two children when he was overthrown. He now wants old friends Flavius and Siward to find Elen. She might know what happened to the Silver Host, a treasure believed to have been hidden by Magnus and his men that can fund the looming civil war.

The political situation is now on a knife edge…

Rich with historical detail and intrigue, Dark Betrayal is an action adventure and a must for anyone interested in the time when Rome’s rule was threatened by political intrigue and barbarian uprisings.

My Review:

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Historical dramaReviewed in the United States on February 5, 2024

Verified Purchase

This is the first book I’ve read from this author. This novel is full of the Roman Empire around 392 AD and a total departure from any other historical book I’ve read. That it is based on actual history as we know it at this time, makes the reading more realistic. Of course, the Roman Empire as previously written as well as the brink of war, secret treasures, ladies of ill repute, mystery, murder, betrayal, and much more. It was a rough time, and it was dicey, but love also prevailed. I never knew where this book was going next.

Murder by the Stroke

Feb4

Book Link

From Amazon:

Detective Landry’s old flame is drop-dead gorgeous, and so are her paintings! Pittsburgh’s most influential cultural enthusiasts are overjoyed when famous artist, Vashti, has scheduled a gala followed by a weeklong exhibit of her latest works. On the other hand, Detective Nathan Landry isn’t so excited about the invitation he has received to the gala. Back in the day, he and the renowned painter were lovers. That is, when her name was Sadie Jensen, or as Nathan’s sister liked to call her, “Psycho Sadie.” Art experts, and collectors alike, have been intrigued by a tiny brush stroke, known as an invisible stroke. So subtle and out of place is the technique, that Vashti’s elusive stroke has become as famous as a Where’s Waldo search. Meanwhile, Fiona finds herself captivated by more than Vashti’s flair for the obscure. Rather, she is far more interested in the gorgeous artist and Nathan’s past. Against his wishes, Fiona, her mother, and her mother-in-law attend the exhibit. Indeed, Vashti’s paintings are killing it in the art world, and in more ways than one.

My Review:

McDonald writes her books with plenty of romance, spy types, detectives, and fun quirky main characters. From that, she weaves in new characters and situations, always with crime sprinkled about. I’ve not read these books in oder, but I knew the main characters and the paintings are described as such that I’d want to see each setting in real life. Humor is used in abundance, making this a cozy murder romance.

The Countdown: The last breath

Feb2

Book Link

From Amazon:

Immerse yourself in the gripping crime suspense of “The Countdown,” a heart-pounding suspense/thriller that challenges everything you thought you knew. What if the reality you lived turned out to be a lie? What if every breath you took led you down a treacherous and dark path?

Justice, an innocent young woman, suffers a devastating loss as her parents fall victim to a twisted attack on their farm. Left with a heavy burden and a father who is confined to a wheelchair, she feels compelled to protect her family and her home. Little does she know that darkness lurks in the shadows, ready to reveal horrifying secrets.

When her father introduces Raymond Storm, an enigmatic ex-convict assigned to complete his community service, Justice’s distrust is palpable. How can she trust a man bound by chains? But as the layers of deception unfold, Justice realizes that her perception of reality has been shattered. Torn and confused by the unsettling truths staring her in the face, she descends into a chilling maze of deceit.

Secrets emerge, forcing Justice to confront the unthinkable and pushing her into a dangerous race against time. With each passing moment, her life hangs in the balance. As she grapples with the weight of regret, Storm and she grow close. He is determined to save her from the clutches of a malicious force. Together, they embark on an illicit journey, their souls soaring among the stars as they uncover the sinister underbelly of her father’s love.

In a heart-stopping narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat, “The Countdown” delivers suspense, thrills, and unexpected twists. Brace yourself for a relentless pursuit of truth, a chase that leaves no room for second chances. Prepare to question everything as Justice fights to survive, knowing that each breath could be her last.

My Review:

5.0 out of 5 stars Life is hardReviewed in the United States on January 27, 2024

Verified Purchase

Life is hard for Justice. Her work with the horses she loved was her only comfort for a long time. Her mother dead, or so her father said, and he was wheelchair bound, or so he wanted Justice to think he was. That gives a tiny speck of this novel away. In rides a newly freed from prison man to help out at the ranch. Was he going to kill or rape her? Would he be trouble? Why was mud on her father’s boots? What is Justice blocking out? Could the unimaginable happen more than once? This novel has all the feels and more.

Princess Smile

Jan26

Book Link

From Amazon:

Lovable but flawed Jane Mercer struggles with her self-image while reaching for the stars in the cutthroat world of Los Angeles marketing. As she claws her way up the ladder at the agency, Warren Mitchell & Associates, she is driven into fierce competition with her colleagues. When Jane is coerced to comply with a client’s unreasonable requests, she frantically seeks an escape.


Enter the handsome and wealthy Craig Keller, managing partner of rival agency Keller Whitman Group. Jane has admired him from afar, and he’s taken a sudden interest in her. Craig lures Jane into his corporate web, showing her a high-powered world beyond her wildest dreams. But what he has to offer comes with a high price—one Jane is not sure she can pay. A high stakes tale of ambition, friendship, secrets, brutality and desire, Princess Smile is a must-read for the contemporary woman.

My Review:

5.0 out of 5 stars What a ride up and down in this bookReviewed in the United States on January 25, 2024

Verified Purchase

Royce nailed this novel completely. First of all, I’ve read the other two novels prior, so I knew characters. However, this is the first book in the trilogy. LA is a place of its own. I love fashion and this book is filled with fashion galore. The advertising world is extremely competitive and can be a bit seedy if you don’t check out your clients more thoroughly. The venues were richly described, and it’s a world I won’t ever be in, but it was great to read about it. Jane thought she was a plain Jane when, in fact, the opposite was true. The emotions Jane went through never let up. That’s the up and down ride in this novel.

Genavine’s Hell: Frozen in the dark

Jan17

Book Link

From Amazon:

Immerse yourself in the thrilling depths of “Genavine’s Hell,” a captivating book that seamlessly blends dystopian suspense, paranormal romance, drama, and supernatural elements into a suspenseful adventure like no other.

It all began with the government’s abandonment of society, but it has developed into something far more sinister. Six years later, the secrets of the past rise from their graves, revealing a world mired in darkness. A virus unleashed upon the world was meant to decimate civilization, but its unintended consequences have created a reality even bleaker than Gena could have ever imagined.

Amidst the chaos, Gena embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her past and the secrets that have haunted her. As she delves deeper, she discovers shocking revelations about her identity and is forced to confront her true nature. With treacherous alliances and unexpected allies, Gena must navigate a treacherous path where every step risks her sanity, her life, and everything she holds dear.

The paranormal world intertwines with her reality, threatening to consume her piece by piece. As darkness engulfs her surroundings, Gena must learn to harness her newfound powers and face the daunting challenges that lie ahead. Her destiny hinges on her ability to strike a delicate balance in the face of unparalleled adversity.

Prepare to be enthralled as you explore the intricate web of mystery and supernatural intrigue that envelops Gena’s world. With each turn of the page, the tension builds, leaving you breathless, craving more. “Genavine’s Hell” will keep you on the edge of your seat, your heart pounding, as you journey alongside Gena through a world teetering on the brink of destruction.

Embark on this thrilling, genre-blending adventure where dystopia, suspense, paranormal romance, drama, and supernatural elements converge in an exhilarating narrative that will leave you yearning for the next installment.

My Review:

Wow. This book is woven tightly, and Genavine continues on in her battles against all the darkness going on in this second book in this series. To grasp what’s going on, please read book one first. By doing so, you will understand this book, and appreciate what is written and why Genavine does what she does for her family. Genavine fights. She fights for what is right. The mix of evil, angels, humans, etcetera is tangled in struggles and passionate moments of love, actually. Gena is more than one sum of her parts and for that hook, you must read this book. Genavine is strong in many ways, a warrior even, but she feels like a normal human person does, yet she’s far from being a normal human. Five stars.